Set between the Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea and the Caspian, Georgia is at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and is one of the world’s most dynamic cultural hubs. It was once part of the Great Silk Road, but contemporary Georgia has an energy all of its own.

1. Walk the streets of Tbilisi’s Old Town

Or, more accurately, old towns. Each of Tbilisi’s historic districts has a distinctive charm – and it’s possible to spend a full day (or more) wandering the labyrinthine back streets of the city’s oldest quarters. With its painted pastel houses and intricately carved wooden balconies, newly restored Kala is the 19-century old town, set around Meidan Square and the sulphur bath houses built on naturally occurring hot springs. It meanders into the Art Nouveau district of Sololaki, now home to some of Tbilisi’s best and most bohemian restaurants, such as Khasheria, near the bath houses, and hidden, speakeasy-style cafés including Le Toit and Linville, both located off Leselidze Street. Next explore the stately neoclassical mansions of Mtatsminda, the hillside neighbourhood adjoining central Rustaveli Avenue. There’s no such thing as a wrong turn.