From Tbilisi to Kazbegi by private car
Kazbegi, officially Stepantsminda, sits about 155 km north of Tbilisi under Mount Kazbek. The road there, the historic Georgian Military Road, is one of the most scenic drives in the Caucasus. A private car lets you stop where you want instead of rushing past the views.
How long does it take?
Without stops the drive takes about three hours. With photo stops and lunch, plan for four to five hours. In winter, allow extra time for snow and slower traffic in the mountains.
Best stops on the way
- Zhinvali Reservoir: turquoise water and the first big viewpoint after leaving Tbilisi.
- Ananuri Fortress: a 17th-century complex with churches right on the lake shore.
- Pasanauri: a classic stop for khinkali, the famous Georgian dumplings.
- Gudauri: Georgia's best-known ski resort and the panoramic viewpoint above the Aragvi valley.
- Jvari Pass: the highest point of the road at about 2,400 m.
- Gergeti Trinity Church: the postcard view above Stepantsminda, reached by a short mountain road.
Travelling in winter
From December to March the road passes through deep snow around Gudauri and the Jvari Pass. It is sometimes closed for a few hours after heavy snowfall, so we check conditions on the day and adjust the timing if needed. If your trip is mainly about skiing, our partner service Gudauri Transfers specialises in private transfers from Tbilisi airport to the Gudauri ski resort during the season.
Day trip or overnight?
Kazbegi works as a long day trip, but one night in the mountains is far more relaxing. Many travellers combine it with a return to a five-star hotel in Tbilisi. For groups and luggage, see which car to choose.
Prefer a guided day with all the stops planned? See the Kazbegi and Gudauri private tour by Meet in Georgia.
Book your VIP transfer → or message us on WhatsApp.