Akhalkalaki Castle: A Fortress Through the Ages
Explore the ruins of Akhalkalaki Castle, a medieval fortress in southern Georgia with a rich history and stunning views.
Akhalkalaki Castle, located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia, dates back to the 11th century. The castle has been controlled by various groups, including Georgians, Armenians, and Ottomans, and features a blend of architectural styles. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress, including a citadel, towers, and a mosque.
A brief summary to Akhalkalaki Castle
- Akhalkalaki-Kartsakhi (Republic of Turkey Border), GE
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle is uneven and requires some walking.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are few facilities nearby.
- Visit in the late spring, summer, or early fall for the best weather conditions.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Akhaltsikhe, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Akhalkalaki from the Akhaltsikhe bus station on Tsereteli Street. Marshrutkas typically depart every 30 minutes and cost around 1-2 GEL. Upon arriving in Akhalkalaki, ask the driver to drop you off near Akhalkalaki Castle, from where it is a 10-minute walk uphill to the entrance.
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Walking
From the Akhalkalaki bus station, which is located on the northern outskirts of the city near the castle ruins, the castle is easily accessible by foot. Follow the road heading south from the bus station, and the castle will be visible on the hill. The walk to the castle entrance takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Discover more about Akhalkalaki Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Javakheti Protected Areas Administration
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Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Georgia at the Javakheti Protected Areas Administration, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Tsunda Church
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Guest House Tirebi
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Experience warm hospitality and authentic Georgian cuisine at Guest House Tirebi, your cozy home away from home in the heart of Georgia.
Vardzia Resort
15.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history of Vardzia Resort, a perfect getaway in Georgia's breathtaking landscape, ideal for relaxation and adventure.
Vardzia Resort Restaurant
15.8 km
Discover the flavors of Georgia at Vardzia Resort Restaurant, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views in the heart of Gogasheni.
ვარძია მასპინძელი - VARDZIA MASPINDZELI
16.5 km
Discover the essence of Georgian cuisine at Vardzia Maspindzeli, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and breathtaking views.
View of Vardzia
16.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Vardzia, a stunning cave monastery carved into the cliffs of Georgia, where culture and nature unite.
Chachkari Church
16.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Chachkari Church in Gogasheni, a hidden gem of Georgian spirituality and architecture.
Vardzia Visitor Center
17.0 km
Explore the Vardzia Visitor Center, your gateway to the stunning Vardzia cave monastery in Georgia, rich in history, culture, and breathtaking views.
Restaurant vardzia
17.1 km
Experience the essence of Georgian cuisine at Restaurant Vardzia in Gogasheni, where family-friendly dining meets breathtaking scenery.
Abuli fortress
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Uncover the historical charm and breathtaking views of Abuli Fortress, a must-visit landmark in Georgia’s scenic landscape.
Narimani Tower
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Zeda Vardzia
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Valodias Cottages
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Akhchia Church
20.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
თამარ მეფის ბაღი
1.6 km
A peaceful park in Akhalkalaki named after Queen Tamar, offering a green escape for relaxation and community gatherings.
Парк Куликам БАХДЖАԲախջա
2.9 km
Explore the enchanting Kulikami Wildlife Park in Khulgumo, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in Georgia.
Kumurdo Cathedral
10.7 km
Explore Kumurdo Cathedral: A 10th-century Georgian architectural gem with rich history and serene Javakheti Plateau views.
დანკალი
13.6 km
ეწვიეთ დანკალს, ისტორიულ სოფელს ჯავახეთის პლატოზე, და აღმოაჩინეთ უძველესი ეკლესიის ნანგრევები და ამ ადგილის მომხიბლავი ისტორიები.
Tmogvi Castle
13.7 km
Explore the ruins of Tmogvi Castle, a historic Georgian fortress with breathtaking views of the Kura River valley.
Panoramic view
14.2 km
Hike to Tmogvi Fortress for stunning panoramic views of the Kura River gorge and a glimpse into Georgia's medieval past.
საქანელა ხიდი
14.2 km
Experience a thrilling walk across საქანელა ხიდი, the Swinging Bridge near Pia, Georgia, offering scenic views and a touch of adventure.
Виды нагору
14.2 km
Explore Nagoru: A Hidden Hiking Paradise with Stunning Views in Tmogvi, Georgia, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventurers.
Vanis Kvabebi
14.9 km
Explore the ancient cave monastery of Vanis Kvabebi in Georgia, featuring intricate caves, tunnels, and churches carved into a cliffside. A historical treasure!
ჭაჭკარი
16.1 km
Explore ჭაჭკარი's scenic hiking trails in Gogasheni, Georgia. Discover lush landscapes, connect with nature, and experience Georgian hospitality.
Vardzia
16.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Vardzia cave monastery, a historical gem nestled in the cliffs of Georgia, showcasing stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Vardzia Cavetown Viewpoint
17.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient Vardzia cave monastery, a jewel of Georgian history and architecture.
Mtkvari Canyon
17.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Mtkvari Canyon in Georgia: a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor adventure.
Khertvisi Fortress
17.7 km
Explore Khertvisi Fortress, an ancient Georgian stronghold offering panoramic views and a journey through centuries of history.
Sulfur Bath
18.0 km
Unwind in natural hot springs near Vardzia. Experience authentic Georgian bathing culture in Mirashkhani's simple sulfur bath.
Essential places to dine
ჯავახური კერძები
1.5 km
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Hovik
1.5 km
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Imperator Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Imperator Restaurant in Akhalkalaki – where tradition meets flavor.
Georgia
19.1 km
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Restaurant Kokhta
25.2 km
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Restaurant Chiko
26.8 km
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Chobareti Meskhetian House Mzianeti
34.5 km
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Restaurant "Georgian Flavor"
35.4 km
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Restaurant USHBA
37.0 km
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Mimino
37.1 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Mimino in Bakuriani – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Saojakho Garemo - Restaurant
43.0 km
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Edemi
43.1 km
Experience the best fish and chips in Minadze at Edemi - where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.
Our yard - ჩვენი ეზო
43.1 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Our Yard - a culinary haven in Uraveli gorge.
Meskhetian House
43.7 km
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Emigranti
45.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
PARTEZ
0.5 km
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Мужская Обувь У Артура.
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SUPERMAX
0.7 km
Explore the latest in electronics at SUPERMAX, Akhalkalaki's premier destination for tech enthusiasts, offering great deals and exceptional service.
ELIT Market
0.7 km
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VLAD supermarket
0.7 km
Explore local flavors and essentials at VLAD Supermarket in Akhalkalaki, your go-to destination for groceries and Georgian delicacies.
Spar
0.9 km
Experience the authentic taste of Georgia at Spar, a grocery store offering local specialties and essentials in Akhalkalaki.
Coffeex Akhalkalaki
0.9 km
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Caliber.Akhalkalaki
1.0 km
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ARTKAR WOOD GEORGIA
1.2 km
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ვანი
1.3 km
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აიბანი
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Aibani, a costume jewelry shop in Akhalkalaki offering unique handmade pieces that showcase Georgian craftsmanship and culture.
GAR-ED
1.5 km
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Market Crystal
1.7 km
Explore the local essence at Market Crystal, a convenient stop in Akhalkalaki for unique Georgian products and friendly service.
SB
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Druzhba Market
2.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fresh Juices - Georgian traditional alcohol (Wine, Chacha, Cognac)
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Beer Bar
18.4 km
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BEER HOUSE
19.4 km
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Leki
27.7 km
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EASY BAR
34.2 km
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Après-ski
34.6 km
Discover Après-ski in Bakuriani: the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing after an adventurous day on the slopes.
ფუძის კერის სიყვარულის
36.4 km
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ჩაიხანა / Chaikhana
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კაფე ბარი კახისი
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WOODS STOP
46.3 km
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Sport Bar
47.2 km
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მოსვი
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ლაშა ყანდორელაშვილის სახელობის სალოთაო
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Dimitri’s Wine Cellar and Restaurant
47.6 km
Experience the best of Georgian cuisine and fine wines at Dimitri’s Wine Cellar and Restaurant in Borjomi, a culinary haven for all travelers.
Omo's Bar
47.9 km
Experience the charm of Omo's Bar in Borjomi, where cozy ambiance meets exceptional local drinks in the heart of Georgia.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tbilisi
37.1 km
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Yard
48.9 km
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Garage club
74.8 km
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BarBar Art Room
76.1 km
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Ray Night Club
76.2 km
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Diamond Club
76.3 km
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Գեյմինգ Քլաբ
76.3 km
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Թիվ 69 կլուբ
76.4 km
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Gyumri Home
76.7 km
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Լաքի
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Metelica club
79.2 km
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Rio
82.1 km
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Cafe & Bar NIAVI
83.3 km
Discover the lively blend of café culture and nightlife at Cafe & Bar NIAVI in Otarsheni, where fun meets relaxation in a vibrant atmosphere.
Uplistsikhe Winery- უფლისციხის მეღვინეობა
86.2 km
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Favorit
97.8 km
Explore Spitak's nightlife at Favorit Night Club, where vibrant music, energetic atmosphere, and unforgettable moments await you.
