How to Get to Mtskheta: Train, Minibus, Car, Taxi, or Transfer

Absolutely, it is! This charming city draws tourists from all over the globe. Once the capital of Georgia, Mtskheta boasts UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples, delightful restaurants, and stunning scenery, making many wonder how to get to Mtskheta.

Nearby, you’ll want to check out the Jvari Monastery perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers. You can clearly see where the rivers meet, as they have different colors! Don’t miss the Bebristsikhe Fortress, the Pompeii Bridge, and of course, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (many come just for this!). Curious about what else to see in Mtskheta? Read this article.

Now, let’s talk about how to get to Mtskheta. It’s just a short 25 km from Tbilisi, so you have plenty of options:

• Train
• Minibus
• Car
• Taxi
• Transfer

Let’s take a closer look at each option!

Traveling from Tbilisi to Mtskheta by train is a convenient and scenic option. Georgian Railway operates trains twice daily, with tickets costing between 2 Lari (approximately $0.75) for the electric train and 8 Lari (approximately $3) for the regular train. The journey takes about 24 minutes, making it one of the quickest ways to reach this historic city. Trains depart from the Central Railway Station in Tbilisi, and you can easily purchase tickets online or at the station.

Departure Times:

• 08:45 AM (Train)
• 06:35 PM (Electric Train)

Travel Time:

• Approximately 24 minutes

Cost:

• Electric Train: 2 Lari (approximately $0.75)
• Regular Train: 8 Lari (approximately $3)

Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check the schedule and ticket prices on railway.ge to ensure a smooth journey!

Another affordable way to reach Mtskheta is by minibus (marshrutka). These minibuses depart every half hour from Didube Bus Station (Akaki Tsereteli Ave. 143, Metro Station: Didube) as they fill up.

At the station, you’ll see a bustling square filled with vehicles. Don’t hesitate to ask the Georgian taxi drivers which minibus you need to take.

If you want to enjoy the city’s sights, you don’t need to go all the way to the final stop. Just get off at the temple in the center. However, if you wish to visit the Jvari Monastery, it’s a bit of a trek from the central streets — about a couple of hours on foot or you can order a taxi (around 20 Lari, approximately $8).

Departure Times: Every 30 minutes from 08:00 to 20:00
Travel Time: 40 minutes
Cost: 3 Lari (approximately $1,1)

For those who love to stay behind the wheel, renting a car is the perfect option! You can reach Mtskheta in about 40 minutes, not counting any traffic or stops along the way.

Which routes should you take? Follow the Tbilisi – Senaki – Leselidze road until you exit for Zakhesi – Mtskheta – Kavitshkhevi – Gori.

There are paid parking options near the Jvari Monastery and in the city itself. It’s easiest to navigate by following the tour buses: just stop where they do!

Travel Time: 40 minutes (not including stops and traffic)
Cost: From 110-140 Lari per day (approximately $39-50) + 30 Lari (approximately $11) for fuel round trip

We know many of you want to travel light and carefree. Adjusting to public transport schedules isn’t always convenient, so taking a taxi could be a better option.

In Georgia, you can use Bolt. A ride from Tbilisi to Mtskheta will cost between 25 and 40 Lari (approximately $9 to $25).

Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for waiting time, which can add up quickly. It’s best to let the driver go once you reach your destination. For the return trip, you’ll likely pay more, and you’ll need to negotiate the fare with local taxi drivers.

Travel Time: 40 minutes (not including stops)
Cost: From 25 Lari (approximately $9)

Let’s dive into the benefits of using GoTrip for your transfer:

• Fixed Price. No surprises here!
• No Deposit Required. Easy and hassle-free booking.
• Free Waiting, Cancellations, Stops, Child Seats (by request), and Water: All included at no extra cost.
• Choose Your Driver and Vehicle. Pick from over 500 options in the database.
• Safe Driving and Clean Cars. Enjoy a comfortable ride.
• Friendly Service, drivers speak English.

Plus, you can plan your own route and select the places you want to visit, such as Jvari, Shiomgvime, and the Bebriscihe Fortress. These spots are a bit out of the city center, so having a car is super convenient.

How to Book a Transfer to Mtskheta?

On the website, simply enter your starting point and destination, where you want to travel, and if you’d like any additional stops. Remember, you can book a car not just from Tbilisi but from any other city too.

Book a Transfer to Mtskheta from Tbilisi

Next, you’ll see all available drivers. Each listing includes a photo, reviews, and detailed vehicle descriptions. We strive to provide as much information as possible to make your choice easy and ensure a comfortable trip. We recommend reading reviews from other guests.

And don’t worry — the price of the transfer won’t change even if the driver has to wait or if there are many stops along the way.

After confirming your order, expect a call from your driver.

Travel Time: 38 minutes
Cost: From 91 Lari (approximately $32.50) for the vehicle (both ways)

If you’re unsure what else to see, embark on a one-day tour with GoTrip! A private driver will take you from Tbilisi to Mtskheta, making stops at the most interesting spots along the way.

Jvari

This ancient male monastery dates back to the 6th century when the first monk stepped foot here. From this viewpoint, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Mtskheta and the confluence of two rivers. Just remember to bring a jacket — it’s almost always windy up there.

Mtskheta

Next, you’ll move on to ancient Mtskheta. Make sure to visit the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral to see the Robe of Christ, the myrrh-streaming pillar, rare frescoes, and the tombs of the Bagrationi dynasty.

Samtavro

Another monastery, but this one is female. Here lie King Mirian and Queen Nana, who embraced Christianity in Georgia in 324 AD.

After your stroll, you’ll likely want to grab some lunch. Ask your driver to take you to the traditional restaurant “Salobio” or recommend places within the city. Then it’s back home to Tbilisi, where you can unpack your memories and smile.

| Book a One-Day Tour Tbilisi – Mtskheta

Travel Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
Cost: From 89 Lari (approximately $31.79)

Mtskheta is perfect for a day trip from Tbilisi. The stunning mountain landscapes, river confluence, and ancient architecture are all reasons worth making the trip!