travel in tbilisi

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tbilisi Itinerary

Last Updated on November 1, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning the ideal Tbilisi itinerary is essential if you’re heading to the chaotic and lively capital of Georgia. You will be hard-pressed to find a person who doesn’t almost instantly fall in love with Tbilisi.

Though it is not the most beautiful city in Europe, Tbilisi has a unique energy and a personality that is all its own and has been charming travellers for years. For too long, though, the city hasn’t received the international attention it so very much deserves.

However, Tbilisi — and Georgia in general — has been gaining in popularity year on year and more international tourists are visiting this beautiful country than ever. So if you’re planning a visit to this incredible nation and wondering what to do in Georgia’s capital, you’ve come to the right place!

We instantly fell in love with the Georgian capital and it became something of a de facto home while we were travelling through Georgia, Armenia , and Azerbaijan . In fact, we loved it so much that we ended up living in the city for over a year and can very much tell you the best things to do in Tbilisi for any length of visit.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Tbilisi?

Many people wonder how many days to spend in Tbilisi and while we would honestly recommend spending upwards of one week in the city (there really is a lot to see and do!), I would say that if you want to get the most out of the city and get a feel for its history and culture, then plan to spend at least 3 days.

However, we realise that some trips to Georgia are shorter than others and not everyone has the luxury to spend even that amount of time in the capital.

If you only have 2 days in Tbilisi, then I would suggest following the first two days of this itinerary. That would still give you a good feel for the city, however, you will likely not be able to go beyond the main sites in that short of a time period.

If you only have one day in Tbilisi, then the first day of this itinerary should be able to give you a taste for the city and a long list of things to do should you ever return!

However, if you’re wondering what to do in Tbilisi for 3 days, then this is the itinerary for you!

2 to 3 Days in Tbilisi Itinerary

Day 1 – explore old tbilisi.

Day one in Tbilisi will see you exploring the main sites in the Old Town, Sololaki and Rustaveli areas of the Georgian capital.

Morning: Rustaveli Avenue & Dzveli Tbilisi

Begin the first day of your Tbilisi itinerary by taking a stroll down the lively Rustaveli Avenue toward Liberty Square (also sometimes referred to as Freedom Square).

This is the main thoroughfare in central Tbilisi and is filled with upmarket shops and restaurants and, while it isn’t always the most budget-friendly place to shop in Tbilisi, it is pleasant to stroll down and take in the sites.

Along Rustaveli, you will see the beautiful Tbilisi Opera , and pass some of the most important museums in the city.

If you’re interested in seeing a show at the opera (which is home to both the national opera and ballet), then you can easily purchase tickets at the box office along the side of the theatre. Tickets are affordable and the building is truly spectacular. You can usually find seats with little advance notice.

Once you find yourself in Liberty Square, you can continue heading south into Tbilisi’s Old Town , where you can see the remains of the old city walls and admire the balconies and courtyards of the old town.

This area of the city is on the waiting list to be protected by UNESCO and, therefore, there are lots of renovations happening, however, they all need to meet certain criteria to be able to be carried out to the Old Town of Tbilisi and retain the same aesthetic it always has.

Because many locals still live in this area, this can prove to be both a blessing and a curse as, while there is a bit more funding to get much-needed repairs done on the buildings, residents have to go through miles of bureaucratic red tape or face spending lots of money to gets basic renovations done on their homes.

Despite the troubles, there is no doubt that this is a charming and relaxed area of the city that is definitely worth wandering through.

Make sure to take the time to make a stop at the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre , which is arguably the quirkiest building in Tbilisi. Several times per day, the figures come out of the crooked clock tower and put on a bit of a show.

While this is, honestly, a bit disappointing and not really worth fighting the crowds of tourists in order to get a view of it, it is still worth stopping by the theatre as it is truly an interesting building. There are still some characters that come out and ring the bell every hour, anyhow.

The theatre itself puts on puppet shows with dark tales aimed at adults. There are only limited seats inside so it can be difficult to get tickets (which you can buy online here or at the box office), but it is an interesting thing to do in Tbilisi.

Keep in mind that they don’t admit children under 12 as the subject matter of the shows can be scary and not appropriate for kids much younger than that.

If you want to get a more historical side of this area, get more context, and some great suggestions for your remaining time in Tbilisi, we recommend taking a free walking tour or a paid walking tour.

Depending on the time of year you are visiting, you may need to book in advance. Also, remember that the guides work only for tips on the free tour so it’s important to pay what you think the tour was worth at the end.

Afternoon: Narikala Fortress & Botanical Garden

After exploring the old town or your free walking tour, it’s time to head to lunch. We recommend walking over to Racha , which serves delicious Georgian cuisine in a divey yet authentic setting. Salobie Bia is also nearby on Rustaveli Avenue and is one of our favourite eateries in the city — make sure to try their tomato salad and lobio .

After getting your fill of fantastic Georgian food, it’s about a 15-minute walk (downhill) to Rike Park , where you can catch the cable car to the Nirakala Fortress .

The cable car uses the same card as you would use for the metro. The ride takes about 5 minutes and it commands beautiful views of Tbilisi and the surrounding area. You will also get fantastic views from the fortress.

Take the time to climb to the top of the fortress to get the best views of the city and to admire the Mother of Georgia Statue , with one of her hands grasping a sword to fend off enemies and the other raising a glass of wine to welcome guests.

It is also easy to get to the lovely Tbilisi Botanical Garden from the fortress and the cable car will help you avoid a killer walk uphill. The botanical garden is a huge complex consisting of some beautiful flora and even its own waterfall. It is an incredibly pleasant place to wander around in Tbilisi and is one of my favourite areas in the city.

Evening: Dinner in Old Tbilisi

End your day with a great Georgian meal. If you want something a bit more fancy and upmarket, then head to Zala — a modern Georgian dining establishment in the Vera neighbourhood, not far from the centre. They serve beautiful renditions of classic Georgian cuisine in a very romantic setting.

Alternatively, you could head to the lovely Sulico Wine Bar which has a nice outdoor seating area and a fantastic wine list along with delicious food. Keto & Kote is another fantastic option for dinner, with a wonderful courtyard tucked into a quiet corner of central Tbilisi.

Day 2 – Marjanishvili and Museums

Your second day can be spent browsing through antiques and kitsch at one of the city’s most well-known flea markets before exploring the area on the other side of the Mktvari River.

Morning: Dry Bridge Market & Marjanishvili

Begin your second day searching through silver jewellery, old kitchenware, and Soviet relics at the Dry Bridge Market . This flea market is open from 11 AM daily and it is filled to the brim with independent sellers hawking everything from old Red Army war medals to crystal stemware to bundles of extension cords and it is truly a delight to wander through.

From the market, it is time to explore the other side of the Mtkvari River and head over to the trendy Marjanishvili neighbourhood. Originally a German settlement separate from Tbilisi altogether, this is a significantly less touristy area of the city and is a great place to explore to see a more local side of the capital while in Tbilisi.

Begin at the trendy Fabrika , a former sewing factory turned hostel and cafe popular with local hipsters and digital nomads. They make some of the best coffee in town, but there are also a number of cool restaurants, cafes, and shops around the back of the complex.

The walls surrounding it are completely decorated in street art, giving it a very hip feel. Fabrika is reminiscent of the Aparaaditehas complex in Tartu, Estonia .

From Fabrika, you can head to St Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Church , which is one of the few Catholic churches in the city (Georgians are largely Orthodox), or you can head to the Museum of Cinema and admire the beautiful architecture of this former palace which has an interesting story.

Also, make sure you still take the time to stroll down Aghmashenebeli Avenue, the main thoroughfare in this area of Tbilisi.

Though a portion of the street is pedestrianised and filled with cafes and restaurants, we would recommend walking further down the street to Mapshalia (try their kharcho!) for lunch.

This truly local joint has a small menu serving local favourites at incredibly affordable prices. Expect a meal with an entree, two main dishes, and a half-litre of homemade wine not to cost more than 20 GEL here.

Alternatively, if you want to head back to the other side of the river, we recommend having lunch at the delicious Sofia Melnikova . This place is a little bit hard to find (it is located through a yellow door directly behind the Tbilisi Theatre just below Rustaveli Avenue), but it serves delicious local cuisine and some western and Asian dishes as well. They have a great service and a lovely outdoor seating area.

Afternoon: Georgian National Museum

After lunch, wander back to Rustaveli Avenue and head to the Georgian National Museum . This museum is home to a number of wonderful exhibitions over a few floors spanning the entire history of Georgia, from the prehistoric age to the modern-day and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this beautiful country.

We were particularly moved by the exhibition about life in Georgia under the communist regime. It is a well-curated exhibit with lots of detailed explanations written in English where you can learn about just how different life in Georgia was not all that long ago. There is also an interesting collection of Soviet art in the exhibit as well.

Evening: Tbilisi’s Performing Arts Scene

After spending time at the museum, it’s time to end the second day of your Tbilisi trip taking in a show if you were able to score tickets. The Tbilisi Ballet or Opera are always a great option or a feature-length puppet show at the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre is another popular choice.

Have a great meal at one of the restaurants mentioned above that you haven’t been to yet!

Day 3 – Day Trips, Sulfur Baths or Markets

If you plan to spend 3 days in the Georgian capital rather than just 2, then there are lots of options for the third day you could choose from.

Option 1: Mtskheta & Sulfur Baths

Because the first two days of this itinerary are packed with a lot of things to do in the city proper, your third day can be very well spent if you decide to visit the surrounding area.

One of the easiest and most popular day trips from Tbilisi is to the lovely town of Mtskheta . Located only a 20-minute marshrutka ride from the city (or you can organise a driver from GoTrip or join a guided tour ), Mtskheta is the former capital of Georgia and is a charming and historic place to visit for a few hours. Planning a trip from Tbilisi to Mtskheta is very easy, as well.

Try to get an early start so you can beat the crowds as Mtskheta can get busy. You only need a couple of hours in the town to see all that it has to offer, which means that you can be back in central Tbilisi in time for lunch!

Wander into the centre of town and head to lunch at either Cafe Leila or any of the above recommended restaurants that you haven’t been to yet! The former is a vegetarian-friendly cafe that serves traditional Georgian cuisine without all of the meat!

Because of the ample fasting days on the Georgian Orthodox calendar (almost half of all days in the year, in fact), vegetarian options are quite easy to come by in traditional Georgian cuisine.

After lunch, head a bit further south to the sulfur baths and spend an hour soaking in the naturally warm and healing waters. There are numerous different bathhouses to choose from, but we would recommend heading to the Chreli Abano Bathhouse .

This is the most tourist-friendly out there and they allow you to book your room online. Generally speaking, advance booking is necessary and there are a range of prices and rooms that you can choose from to suit any budget.

After you’re well-relaxed and chilled out from the sulfuric water, we recommend finding a nice wine cellar – Vino Underground is a great option – to enjoy a traditional glass of Georgian red or white or taking the time to wander through the lesser-explored alleys of the old town.

There are lots of art galleries and local artisans who have opened shops out of the refurbished houses where you can pick up a unique souvenir from your trip to Tbilisi.

Option 2: Dezerter Bazaar, Jewish Museum, Sameba Cathedral & Mtatsminda

If you’re not interested in a day trip, we recommend starting your day off at the lively Dezerter Bazaar . This is Tbilisi’s largest marketplace and it is an excellent area to visit if you want to see how and what locals eat. It is located close to Station Square metro station and runs every day from 7 AM — it is busiest in the morning.

Though it is not as lively or bustling as the Green Bazaar in Kutaisi , it is still at Tbilisi institution and well worth a visit. You won’t find many tourists here, either, which makes it a more off-beat activity.

After the market, it can be worth heading back to the other side of the city and taking the time to learn about the Jewish population of Tbilisi. Though there isn’t much of a Jewish presence in the city today, there is still a history spanning back that you can learn about.

Take the time to pop into the Great Synagogue (both men and women must cover their heads — kippahs and scarves are available at the entrance).

If you want to learn more, you can wander over to the nearby David Baazov Museum of the History of Jews in Georgia . This is an interesting museum as it teaches you less about what Judaism is and rather explores Georgian-Jewish relations throughout the years.

If that doesn’t interest you, then head over the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi . Also known as the Sameba Cathedral, this beautiful church is the largest church in Georgia and one of the largest Eastern Orthodox Cathedrals in Europe. It was opened in 2004 to commemorate the 1000th birthday of Christ.

End your time in Tbilisi by taking the funicular up to Mtatsminda Park . This park, located at the top of one of the highest hills in Tbilisi not only commands amazing views of the city below but is also home to a few restaurants and an entire amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster and many games and other activities. It is most lively in the summer months.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 3 days, there are numerous ways that you could fill your time.

For one, there are many more museums and art galleries that you could visit to get a broader understanding of the history and culture of Tbilisi and Georgia as a whole.

You could also head out to Lisi Lake or Turtle Lake if you want to experience some more green spaces in the city. The latter is also home to the Open-Air Museum of Ethnography.

Spending more time in Tbilisi will also give you the opportunity to embark on a few of the other easy day trips from the capital. Popular options include visiting Stalin’s birthplace of Gori , venturing to the historic cliff monasteries of Davit Gareja , or head to the beautiful hilltop town of Sighnaghi for some wine tasting in the Kakheti region.

While we would recommend spending at least a couple of days in Sighnaghi and Kakheti , it is easy enough to visit as a day trip if you’re pressed for time.

All in all, there is an endless array of things to do in Tbilisi and visitors could spend a week or more in the city without getting bored.

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

Tbilisi is becoming a more and more popular destination for travellers by the minute and, therefore, there is no shortage of great places to stay throughout the city. From family-run guesthouses to backpacker hostels to boutique hotels, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to Tbilisi accommodation. If you’re wondering where to stay in Tbilisi, have a look at these suggestions:

Guest House Rampa  – This budget guesthouse has a range of private rooms available. The staff are also always willing to lend a helping hand to make your stay in Tbilisi a great one.

Hotel Flower  — This centrally-located hotel is a great choice. It’s situated within easy walking distance of the top sites in Tbilisi, they have a number of great rooms available and breakfast is available daily.

Pushkin 10 Hostel — Centrally located, this hostel has a range of private and dorm rooms available, a friendly and helpful staff, great common spaces for meeting other travellers, and clean facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tbilisi hotels

Getting Around Tbilisi

While the centre of Tbilisi is fairly compact and easy enough to navigate on foot, the Georgian capital is quite a large city and many things can be fairly spread out and require long walking times. There is good news, however, as the city is well-served by an efficient public transport system and taxis are plentiful and affordable.

The Tbilisi metro system is easy to navigate and use and connects the city very well to most areas that are of interest to tourists. To use it, you must purchase a travel card from one of the desks that are present at every station.

The transit card can also be used on the city buses, however, these can be difficult to navigate if you’re just a tourist for a couple of days and it is much easier just to use the metro system. The card is also used for the cable car from Rike Park to the Narikala Fortress.

Taxis are also an effective way to get around Tbilisi and they are very affordable. While Uber isn’t available in Georgia’s capital, there are a few taxi apps that you can use to hail a cab if you don’t want to risk a dishonest driver or trying to negotiate a fare. We recommend using the Bolt app.

It is worth noting that taxis in Georgia don’t tend to have meters, so it is customary to agree upon a price before getting in the taxi, which is why it is easier to use the taxi apps, especially if there is a language barrier.

If all else fails and you would rather not use the metro or taxi system, Tbilisi is still accessible by foot, especially if you stay in a central location. Keep in mind that the central area is very hilly, though!

Best Time to Visit Tbilisi

Like everywhere in the Caucasus countries, Tbilisi has a continental climate and very much experiences all four seasons. While winters tend to be short and relatively mild compared to those in North America or northern Europe and summers can linger well into October and start as early as April, there are still better times than others to visit the Georgian capital.

The shoulder season months between March-May and September-October see the mildest temperatures, with highs averaging in the mid-20s Celcius (70s Fahrenheit).

Obviously, it is colder in March and late October and you can expect some very hot days in late May and early September. However, this is when you will see the most pleasant temperatures with still very few tourist crowds.

The summer months between June-August can get very hot, with temperatures sometimes clocking in at about 40°C (104°F) and average about 35°C (95°F). Mornings and evenings, however, can be pleasant once the sun has left its highest point.

If you do visit Tbilisi in the summertime, as well, it is worth knowing that many places throughout the city do have air conditioning, so there is some respite from the heat. And, if all else fails, you can seek refuge in a wine cellar, which are cool all year long!

While winters tend to be short in Tbilisi, they do get cold and you will need to make sure that you pack accordingly. Expect temperatures to hover around freezing, especially during the months of December, January and February. Early November and late March can see warmer, more pleasant temperatures.

No matter what time of year you visit Tbilisi, there are always lots of things to see and do!

Piecing together the ideal itinerary for Tbilisi can be difficult when you consider how many things there are to do in Georgia’s capital. However, three days is the optimal amount of time to spend in Tbilisi in order to get the best feel for the city in a short amount of time.

Are you planning to visit Tbilisi? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Georgia to Azerbaijan: Tbilisi to Baku & Sheki to Tbilisi

Is Georgia Expensive? A Georgia Trip Cost Guide

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, Do you know where I can obtain a street level map of Tbilisi in English?

1)How much cash would we need in Tbilisi for a 4 day trip 2)What is a reasonably prices shopping place for clothes/ dresses/winter boots? 3) do we need winter boots for 7degrees celcius weather or regular walking sneakers will suffice? Travelling next week

Hi Jackie, you can get a good idea of costs in Tbilisi with this article here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/georgia-trip-cost/ Generally, it doesn’t really get cold enough to need specialised winter boots in the city – especially if it’s only about 7 degrees outside.

Hi Maggie Thanks for your heart-felt reviews of Tbilisi and Georgia in general. It’s a place leading you to sights and people to enrich your life. We cannot wait to go back. There are so many places you love that we visited and so many we missed. Next time. Georgian people have had a very hard history, yet they are so welcoming and lovely – just because they are. A visit to the National Museum makes you wonder how they can be so generous to outsiders given they are far from financially or politically secure from threat. I hope Georgia can see out all this mess and survive the restrictions faced because of trading strains with Russia and geographical isolation from the big markets. It’s such a wonderful place. It’s not only the border of Europe and Asia, but the place where freedom stands in the face of all challenges. Thanks for your stories.

Thanks for your comment, Louis, and I’m happy to hear you found our tips helpful when visiting Tbilisi! Georgia is really a wonderful country to visit and I sincerely hope you’re able to travel here again in the future – more tourism is definitely needed once it’s safe!

I’ve been living in Tbilisi for over a year and this itinerary still gave me ideas for things I need to try!

Thanks, Laurel! 🙂

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31 Things To Know Before You Travel To Tbilisi, Georgia

After my trip to Batumi, Georgia in December 2017 I always dreamed of coming back to this lovely cwhountry and in October 2018 I finally did. I decided to travel to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia to live like a local for 2 weeks and explore the city as much as I could. All these Tbilisi travel tips I bundled in this travel blog to inform you about the best restaurants, rooftop bars, viewpoints, things to do, places to see, day trips and everything else you need to know before you travel to Tbilisi.

Tbilisi tourism

The capital of Georgia is a very upcoming travel destination and probably one of the most popular places to visit in the Caucasus. The liberal politics compared to the surrounding countries attract a lot of Western tourists and also digital nomads like me. Georgia is a flourishing country trying to get rid of the old Soviet Union image many people still have. Tbilisi tourism is doing all they can to show off that they are a modern place to visit in the Caucasus. In this Tbilisi travel guide I will give you all the info you need to know to make the most of your trip.

My trip to Tbilisi

All I can say is that if you are debating whether to visit Tbilisi you have to give it a go. I got in touch with Georgia tourism first time when I visited Batumi on the Black Sea and fell in love with the easy going culture. People are extremely nice and life still feels laid-back (although Georgians drive like idiots)! On my trip to Tbilisi I lived in the city center for 2 weeks and did a lot of day trips as well. Most of the days I went out eating in restaurants, drank wine in the evenings, visited cute coffee places, found some hidden gems around the city and ticked of the best places to see in Tbilisi. Read here more about how I spent two weeks in the city in my Tbilisi travel blog .

Visa for Georgia

There is a big chance with your passport you can travel to Georgia visa free. Visa free entry is permitted for all Western countries and almost all others can opt for an e-visa. Georgia is very open to tourists and let foreigners stay up to 1 year without any issues. See here a map of all the visa free countries.

How to get to Tbilisi, Georgia

Flights to tbilisi.

The international airport of Tbilisi has daily direct flights to most European countries as well as the surrounding countries like: Iran, Russia, Azerbaijan, UAE, Saoudi Arabia, Turkey, Israel and China. 

Direct flights from UK to Tbilisi

There are direct flights from London Gatwick to Tbilisi, check them out here.

Georgian Airways also flies directly to Amsterdam Airport, Koln/Bonn Airport, Brussels Airport, Paris Charles De Gaulle and Rome Fiumicino.

Busses to Tbilisi

If you travel to Tbilisi by bus there is a big chance you will get there by a so-called Marshrutka. These are basically little vans or big cars. Most of them are pretty luxurious and even have free wifi on board. To get from Yerevan, Armenia to Tbilisi, Georgia there are several Marshrutka services in luxury Mercedes vans including wifi for 35 GEL ($13).

Trains to Tbilisi

You can also travel to Tbilisi by train. From Yerevan, Armenia and Baku, Azerbaijan there are daily trains going to Georgia. The overnight train from Baku to Tbilisi takes about 13 hours and cost $35 for a first class ticket, second class is about $20.

Domestic Georgia travel tips

When you are coming from another city in Georgia the best way to to visit Tbilisi is by Marshrutka's. Ask around, Im pretty sure there are daily busses that travel to Tbilisi. From Batumi and Kutaisi there are modern high speed trains serving the capital multiple times a day. A train ride only costs about $8.

Planning a trip to Georgia? Make sure you don’t end up with high roaming costs. Buy a Georgia sim card ! For less than $10 you get 30GB data.

Best time of the year to travel to Tbilisi

Every Tbilisi travel guide will tell you that spring and autumn are the best months to visit Tbilisi. Summer months can be extremely hot and winter months extremely cold. The city is most vibrant when it starts to get hot. People are out on the terraces enjoying the spring sun. So April to June is a good time to travel to Tbilisi. In Autumn you will be able to enjoy the beautiful colors of this season, its dry and has pleasant temperatures. I spent two weeks in the city in October and had one afternoon rain.

As you can see on my Tbilisi pictures it was such good weather that I walked around in a t-shirt in October.

Is it safe to travel to Georgia

Georgia is a very safe country to visit. The crime rate in Georgia is lower than in Western European cities and from terrorists they have never really heard here. Georgia is safer than Western Europe in my opinion. Although always use common sense when travel, it will get you out of trouble in the first place.

Is Georgia Europe or Asia?

Regardless its location, Georgia feels more like Europe than Asia. Officially it is part of the Asian continent, but Georgia and especially the modern capital feels more like Europe. This is also what the locals prefer to be associated with.

Everything you should know when you visit Tbilisi, Georgia

1. how to pronounce tbilisi.

May be one of the hardest to pronounce capitals in the world. Or actually when you know how to pronounce it is not, but almost everyone is saying it wrong! Officially it is: Te-BIL-Lee-See.

2. Currency

The currency that is used in Georgia is called Lari. About 3 GEL = €1 and around 2,5 GEL = $1.

3. Tbilisi is not the government city

In most countries the government is situated in the capital, but not in Georgia. A couple years ago they decide to move the government to Kutaisi. Since then the majestic and amazingly beautiful government building on Rustaveli Avenue is not in use. It is a shame!

4. Price levels in Tbilisi

Because this is the capital it also is one of the most expensive places to visit in Georgia. But don’t worry your well earned dollars, pounds and euros are worth a lot when you travel to Tbilisi. Price levels for Western tourists are like heaven. Meals in a restaurant are about $5, a pint cost not more than $1, for a mid range hotel you will pay $30.

Typical street food or a snack in Georgia. These things are nuts in grape residue and cost about 40 cents per piece.

5. It is safe to drink tap water

The tap water in Tbilisi is perfectly fine to drink. Actually almost everywhere in Georgia you can drink the tap water. Because of its locations next to the Caucasus mountains there are many fresh water sources. Bottled water is cheap and can be bought everywhere for those who want to stay on the safe side. But please people reduce the use of single used plastics!

6. Electricity plugs

If you are traveling from mainland Europe there is no need to buy a travel adapter. I always travel with one just in case but in Georgia they use the the standard European plugs with 230 V. If you are traveling to Tbilisi from the UK, you will have to get a travel adapter .

The Ananuri monastery, a popular day trip from Tbilisi.

Strolling through the old city was one of my favorite things to do in Tbilisi.

There are a couple hiking trails going uphill from the city center. The views get better with the minute.

7. Tbilisi Airport

The international airport of Tbilisi operates from a recently renovated terminal. For some reason a lot of international flights from Tbilisi tend to leave in the middle of the night. Arrivals are pretty early as well. I landed at 3.00am, pretty annoying arrival time I would say. There is free wifi and can also buy a Georgia sim card at Tbilisi Airport .

8. Taxi apps

The way to get around in Tbilisi is Yandex. This is the local Uber, so when you are planning a trip to Tbilisi download this app. A trip around the city will never cost you more than 5 GEL ($2). If you stop a driver on the streets Im sure it will be a hassle to let him know where you are going, plus if they see a tourist prices go up! Downloading the Yandex app definitely is one of my best Tbilisi travel tips!

9. Georgia sim card

When you want to avoid crazy roaming costs then buy a Georgia sim card. I found out that the best Georgia sim card for tourists is either Beeline or Magti. Geocell has a much smaller 4G network than the other two mobile internet providers. I chose Beeline as they have a massive data package: 30GB for less than $10. You can buy a sim card at either the airport or find the internet provider shops on Rustaveli Avenue. Click on the link to find the best Georgia sim card .

10. Religion

Most people in Tbilisi are Orthodox Christians and religion is still practiced and part of their lifestyle. Even younger people still go to church although most of them just do it to please their parents as they told me. Orthodox Christian is very traditional, but a lot of younger people are diverting in to another direction, mostly atheists. The many Muslims that are settling in Tbilisi are turning the city into a multi cultural city. Read why I called one area in the city Little Iran in my Tbilisi travel blog .

11. Everyone smokes in Tbilisi

At least I got that feeling after traveling to Georgia two times now. It is honestly incredible (disgusting) how many people smoke cigarettes. It is such a normal thing to do in the daily life of someone in Tbilisi. Don’t be surprised when your taxi driver suddenly lights a cigarette. Don’t be too shy to tell him not to, you pay, you decide! I hate smoking.

12. Smoking inside forbidden

But luckily a couple months ago the government made it prohibited to smoke inside bars, restaurants, cafe’s, pubs, clubs. Also they banned displaying advertisement for cigarettes. If they would only double the price, I think that would already help a lot. A pack of cigarettes can be bought for less than a dollar! Western tourist will love this new law when visiting Tbilisi. Before it was horrendous inside bars.

13. Marijuana is decriminalised

That said since a year now smoking marijuana is legalised in Georgia. Don’t ask me where to buy it, because I hardly smoke weed. Nowadays, I prefer real drugs! ;) Anyway I am sure you can easily get it on the streets. Just ask someone who is smoking. Im sure for many travelers this is one of those valuable Tbilisi travel tips.

Compared to the conservative countries around, Georgia is pretty progressive! Legalising marijuana is another step towards an open-minded society.

It is hard to explain but Tbilisi just has an amazing vibe!

14. LGTB in Tbilisi

Although it is a criminal offence in Georgia to discriminate LGTB people in Georgia, it is still not commonly accepted in Tbilisi. The strict religious culture makes it a sensitive topic in Georgia. There is a gay bar in Tbilisi but in the past several incidents have been reported there. 

15. Georgian food is heavy

At first when traveling to Batumi I loved the Georgian food and when I was about to visit Tbilisi I got excited again to eat Khachapuri and Khinkali. But honestly said after traveling in Tbilisi and around for more than two weeks, I am not sure about Georgian food (sorry Georgians)! The food is really heavy with a lot of carbs, cheese and meat. And the cheese is strong! I am not saying it is bad, but I am more a lover of Indian, Thai or Italian food.

16. Best Khachapuri in Tbilisi

But when traveling to Tbilisi you have to try Khachapuri. It is kind of like a pizza, but Georgians won’t like it when you say this. It looks the same and in fact it is a lot of cheese on a round bread. For the best Khachapuri in Tbilisi you have to go to Laghidze Water restaurant according to the locals.

This is actually a kind of Khachapuri, but without cheese. A Lobiani is made with beans.

17. Best Khinkali in Tbilisi

Another typical Georgian dish is Khinkali. When you see them you will think: ooooh dumplings. But Georgians get offended when you call them dumplings. But in essence it is of course the same. Eat them with your hands, grab them by the top and bite a little piece out of the dough. Then suck the juice out of it and eat the rest. You have Khinkali filled with cheese, potato or meat. I prefer the ones with meat and when I think about them now it makes me hungry. They are gooooood! Find the best Khinkali in Tbilisi at Zakhar Zakharich .

18. Drink Chacha

You can’t get away with traveling to Tbilisi and not drinking Chacha. The locals will force you to, haha. Chacha is a grape pomace brandy, made from the grape residue after making wine. It is a clear strong shot that often after the meal is served. Often before the meal as well! Haha, welcome to Georgia.

19. Meet the Tamada

When there is drinking involved there is always a Tamada. This is the toastmaster on the table. Anytime the Tamada brings out a toast you have to drink a Chacha again. This can be fun, but can also be horrible.

Freedom square in Tbilisi, the start of Rustaveli Avenue.

20. Wine originates from Georgia

Recent studies discovered that the oldest wine making methods originate from Georgia. And according to Nat Geo and the BBC wine therefore comes from Georgia. Wine is religion in Georgia and the locals are very proud at this fact. Ordering wine in restaurants is cheap. A bottle of wine in a restaurant can be found for only a couple dollars. 

21. Best Restaurants in Tbilisi

There are of course way too many restaurants in Tbilisi and it is hard to tell you the best places to go in Tbilisi. Of course I also did my research before going out for dinner. But from the restaurants I have visited, I would definitely recommend you the following ones for fine dining.

21.1  Barbarastan

A extremely charming restaurant with a cool story. You will need to make a reservation as this is one of the most popular places to go when people visit Tbilisi. A couple years ago they found a very old book with traditional old Georgian recipes somewhere in the rural countryside. These dishes are now being served in this classical restaurant. One of my secret Tbilisi travel tips for you is to reserve a table downstairs in the basement. May be one of the most romantic things to do in Tbilisi. I also must admit that the food was not my all time favorite, but the atmosphere made up for it.

21.2  Black Lion Restaurant

This bistro style cute restaurant with Georgian cuisine is another favorite in the city. They have limited indoor seating available, so making a reservation is a must. The outdoor area is pretty big, but cold in winter I guess. It is a very traditional restaurant and so is the food. Very typical, but a food lovers dream if you are into trying new things.

21.3  Melograno

It was just next to one of my Airbnb’s and since I passed it by many times I had to check it out and was pleasantly surprised. The outdoor area is pretty small, but its pergolas covered with green bushes make it a very charming restaurant. The international food is very tasty and the indoor area is modern-chic. Dress a little more sophisticated, because at this Tbilisi restaurant just off Rustaveli Avenue you will meet some beautiful locals.

22. Best rooftop bar

Tourists love rooftop bars in big cities, right? There are not that many rooftop bars in Tbilisi. You can try the one in the Radisson Blue Hotel, but it is behind glass and not my favorite. A charming rooftop bar is Marani Restaurant . It is located in Old Tbilisi and has good views over the old city.

If you are looking for the Tbilisi restaurant with the best view many Tbilisi travel guides will send you to the Funicular restaurant on top of the hill. Undoubtedly the restaurant in Tbilisi with the best view, but not really my favorite spot though. A little bit too fancy!

23. Nightlife in Tbilisi

As a tourist I am sure you are also interested reading about the Nightlife in Tbilisi. There are several clubs around the city. For some reason Techno is very popular and Tbilisi nightlife is trying to become the Eastern European Techno capital. They have looked at Berlin and are trying to bring that vibe to the Caucasus. The Georgian capital is also a great place for hidden bars, jazz clubs, live music and wine bars.

24. Bassiani Club

The number one place to go if you are into Techno is Bassiani. This raw industrial club is known for hosting amazing Techno parties. It is located under the Dinamo Tbilisi Arena and is where dark house parties are held over the weekend. International renown DJ play here often. 

Don’t ask me where to get drugs now, because I don’t know and I did not try it in the Tbilisi nightlife. All I know is that of course it is illegal. Though Im not afraid to tell you that I love Techno in combination with hard drugs. It is one of the travel adventures from around the world that I got in touch with while traveling.

25. Jazz cafe Singer

Come here to enjoy Jazz music at its best in Tbilisi. Every night there are local talents showing off their Jazz skills and I was able to enjoy some really great gigs. Lovely staff and a cosy atmosphere make this place for a great Jazz night out in Tbilisi.

26. Wine bars

With so many wine bars you are spoiled for choice in the Tbilisi nightlife. I have ticked off quite some wine bars in Tbilisi. Some standard and cheap, some really nice and a little more upscale. Choose your vibe when diving into the Tbilisi nightlife. These are my TbilIsi travel tips for wine bars:

26.1  8000 Vintages

One of the most amazing wine selections can be found at 8000 Vintages. Highly rated on the internet as one of the best places in Tbilisi and I must admit it was a great night out. There are wine bottles in every direction. You can choose a bottle from the shelve, open it and drink it. This place is wine heaven!

26.2  Schuchmann Wine

This place on Rustaveli Avenue is a local hotspot. It is located in an old Caravansarai from the time of Marco Polo in the same building as the Tbilisi Historical Museum. The atmosphere feels very much like the Middle Ages and the wines are amazing. They also serve really good food here.

26.3  Azarphesha

This is more like an Old Georgian restaurant, but I loved hanging out here drinking wine. This place with a historical atmosphere serves amazing wines and equally delicious food.

For a great night out contact Katti Tours. She organizes group trips showing you the best nightlife in Tbilisi. Her gastronomy tours are lovely and so is she! You can join one of her groups or contact her for private groups tours: +995 558779111. She is a beautiful and adorable girl and Im pretty sure your group is gonna have an amazing night out.

27. Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue

A completely different side of the Tbilisi nightlife can be found on the other side of the river. Find a multicultural vibe at the Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue. A popular place for the Muslim community to smoke shisha. But don’t worry alcohol is served in all these bars too. Most of this avenue is turned into a walking street with bars, restaurants and outdoor seating. It is a very lively area at night and a tourist spot in Tbilisi.

28. Things to do in Tbilisi

Enough now about the Georgian culture, handy things to know and where to eat. Lets talk about Tbilisi tourism stuff and let me start with things to do in Tbilisi.

28.1 Cable car

One of the most popular things to do in Tbilisi is a ride with the cable car. The ride is short, but is a great way to see the city from the top. The cable car starts across the river from old town and crosses Old Tbilisi. It brings you to the top of the hill behind Old Town. From here you will have some of the best views of the city.

28.2 Zip lining

There is a zip line right next to the top station of the cable car. I did not try it myself, but had a look as it is only 40 GEL. Honestly I was not impressed. The zip line will take you down on the other side of the hill and you will have to walk up again yourself. The ride is only like 10 seconds and definitely for Georgian standards 40 GEL is then a lot of money.

28.3 Wine tours Tbilisi

As I said before already when mentioning wine bars there are also Gastronomy tours. You will get to go to some wineries, sample food and of course taste wine. Wine tastings are a fun thing to do in Tbilisi. Remember that this is where wine comes from and that Georgians are passionate about their wines. Tastings get real here, not just a little sip! The gastronomy and wine tours organized by Katie were amazing, you can contact her through whatsapp: +995 558779111

28.4 Shopping in Tbilisi Mall

If you are a fan of shopping there is one place in particular I want to send you. In the heart of the city on Rustaveli Avenue you will find the Tbilisi Mall. This modern shopping mall is the largest of its kind in the Southern Caucasus. Find here elegant locals shopping for international brands across more than 250 stores. There is a family entertainment center, a food court and also one of the most modern cinemas in the Caucasus. There are constantly held events in the Tbilisi Mall so keep an eye out for runway shows for example. 

28.5 (Free) Walking tours Tbilisi

There are many walking tours in Tbilisi available. One night I stayed at Fabrika , the most popular hostel in the city and saw a Tbilisi walking tour for 50 GEL. Don’t pay that much, it is a ridiculous price! Every city around the world has free walking tours, just google this. You will meet at a given prime location in the city and a volunteer will guide you around some of the best tourists spots in Tbilisi. Free walking tours depart every day and are tip based and definitely not $20 per person! On top of that locals know best!

More about where to stay in Tbilisi at the end of this travel blog.

28.6 Ferris wheel 

Undoubtedly the best view over the city you will get when you take a ride in the ferris wheel. It is hard to miss when you visit Tbilisi as it towers high above the city. The ferris wheel is located next to the tv-tower.

28.7 TV Tower Tbilisi

Unfortunately the tv-tower is not (yet) a tourist spot in Tbilisi. Rumours are that the impressive tower on top of Mtatsminda hill will be opening up for tourists in the future. Until now we can only imagine how incredible the view from up here would be. The tower is almost 275 meter high and stands on top of a 400 meter mountain. The TV tower looks beautiful when it is lit up at night.

28.8 Mtatsminda Park

Fun to pay a visit if you travel to Tbilisi is the Mtatsminda Park. This small amusement park is not the worlds most spectacular, but hey the entrance fee is just a couple dollars. There is even a rollercoaster! Since it is located on top of Mtatsminda Hill good views from some of the attractions are included.

28.9 Funicular Tbilisi

For just a couple cents it is worth taking a funicular ride in Tbilisi. This old little train will bring you up to Funicular Complex where you can find the ferris wheel, the funicular complex restaurant, the tv tower, the Mtatsminda amusement park and a couple cool bars and coffee places.

28.10 Georgian National Opera Theater

Not something I would normally mention, but it was a great thing to do in Tbilisi. The entrance fee is not that much depending on the show so if you ever want to attend an Opera show for a couple dollars, this is your chance. The interior is amazing and the show was actually pretty cool to witness.

28.11 Tbilisi Sea - summer club

Something completely different and only a summer activity in Tbilisi if you ask me. But when you are here in summer the Tbilisi Sea Summer Club is where locals go for their beach cravings. Beach clubs erect this time of year and people watching and chilling in the hot summer sun is then one of the best things to do in Tbilisi.

29. Places to visit in Tbilisi

Apart from the above activities there are some really interesting places to visit in Tbilisi as well. Churches, monasteries, castles, shopping streets, bazaars and more.

29.1 Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

Unmistakably one of the best places to see in Tbilisi is the Holy Trinity Cathedral. This majestic Orthodox Church with golden cupola is actually one of the biggest of its kind in the world. You can enter the complex for free and wander around, but you can also visit the church. You have to dress appropriate if you go inside, but there are free cloths at the Cathedrals entrance to wrap around. From here you also have good city views. You can easily get there on foot. From Old Tbilisi it is like 15 minutes walk.

29.2 Rustaveli Avenue

When you visit Tbilisi it is impossible to miss the aorta of this city. Rustaveli Avenue is where it is all happening. The most famous street in Georgia and probably the most expensive place to buy in Georgian monopoly. Find here the best hotels, restaurants, shops, government buildings, churches and much more. Take a stroll along the avenue is always a good idea when you are looking for what to do in Tbilisi.

29.3 Meidan Bazaar

By coincidence I found the underground Meidan Bazaar. It is close to Europe Square in Old Town and it is not so easy to find if you ask me. But if you are looking for souvenirs and asking yourself what to buy in Tbilisi then find some inspiration here. Very charming and taking a stroll through the bazaar is a pretty romantic thing to do in Tbilisi.

29.4 Narikala fortress

In every Tbilisi travel guide the Narikala Fortress will be mentioned as it is such an iconic castle looming large over Old Tbilisi. You can walk up there or you can get there by cable car and walk down a little. It is easy to access the Narikala Fortress complex, but to get to the top of the castle tower is a little more tricky and involves some serious climbing. There is no entrance fee. The views are splendid from the castle walls which can fairly easy be reached. If you are looking what to do in Tbilisi for sunset then head up here.

29.5 Mother of Georgia

Just a little stroll to the right from the top of the cable car you can find the statue of the Mother of Georgia or Kartlis Deda in Georgian language. This woman in a traditional Georgian dress symbolises Georgia and of course is she holding a bowl of wine in one hand! I told you if you travel to Tbilisi you can’t escape wine!

29.6 Tbilisi Sioni Cathedral

A small cathedral that is a great place to see in Tbilisi when strolling along Rustaveli Avenue. This is one of the oldest cathedrals of the city and beautifully decorated with wall paintings. I walked in twice and two times there was a priest preforming a ritual with a young couple. Cool thing to see!

29.7 Bridge of Peace

One of the modern highlights and a top tourist attraction in Tbilisi. When you are an architecture geek you are going to love the Peace Bridge. Although some say that from above it looks like a panty liner, while walking through the Bridge of Peace I was amazed. And I am not even an archi lover that much.

29.8 Turtle Lake

This lake in the southwest of the city is surrounded by woods and a popular place to hang out in summer. The lake is located high above the city in the hills a super cool location. Often there are festivals and events held here in summer, so ask around. You can get there for just 1 GEL by a short cable car ride.

29.9 Lisi Lake

If you want to escape the bustling city then Lisi Lake is a great place to visit in Tbilisi. Just 8 kilometers outside the city center uphill to the west. The lake feels really rural and you will forget the city is just around the corner. It was one of my favorite things to do in Tbilisi if I wanted to switch off.

30. Day trips from Tbilisi

Although there are many things to do and a lot of places to visit in Tbilisi, also have a look at some spectacular day trips and tours. All the below listed activities are worth a visit and some are actually even better on a multi day trip. Bring a little daypack and stay overnight in the mountains.

30.1 Jvari Monastery

Just 16 kilometers out of town you will find a monastery on top of a hill. It still counts as one of the tourist spots in Tbilisi as it is just a 20 minute drive away. The Jvari viewpoint is an amazing instagram spot and the dark and cosy inside of the monastery is very mysterious but captivating. You can feel the religious vibe with all the candles burning. It is ok to take photos and film inside. Dress appropriate!

Remember one of my best Tbilisi travel tips? If you use the Yandex taxi app you can get to the Jvari Monastery for already 18 GEL, that is $7. 

30.2 Mtskheta

From the Javari monastery you are looking out over the the old capital of Georgia. Mtskheta is impossible to pronounce but a lovely charming village. Stroll through the old town and get the a slice of the amazing laid-back Georgia lifestyle. There are multiple restaurants and bars.

This is Mtskheta seen from the Jvari monastery. You can also clearly see the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral from here. Also see 30.3 of things to do in Tbilisi.

For those looking for an active day trip from Tbilisi. Get yourself a taxi to the Jvari Monastery on top of the hill, then hike down to Mtskheta. Enjoy Georgian food in typical local restaurants and have some wines before you order a taxi back to your Tbilisi hotel or Airbnb! More about that later in the where to stay in Tbilisi section.

30.3 Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

When walking around Mtskheta it is impossible to miss the second largest church in Georgia, this Middle Ages masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

30.4 Ananuri day trip

A little further out driving towards the North you will find the Ananuri Monastery. Another beautifully located monastery with a great story. This Tbilisi tourist spot is named after Ana who was captured by Muslims and tortured to reveal the secret passageway to the monastery. She eventually died without ever telling the enemy. There is a castle tower next to it which you can climb up to, but to get cool photos you will have to attempt a risky climb while on the top.

When you visit Tbilisi, the Ananuri monastery is a nice day trip, but it takes 50 minutes one-way and within 15 minutes you have basically seen it. Along the way you can stop at the Jinvali artificial lake and have a tea with good views. Find out more about this day trip from Tbilisi in my Tbilisi travel blog .

30.5 Gudauri Ski Resort

Probably the best ski resort in Georgia, so if you are looking for things to do in Tbilisi in winter you found one. Not only in winter this is a popular place to go if you visit Georgia. In Gudauri you can find multiple day treks, hiking trails and viewpoints. It is about 2,5 hours North of Tbilisi.

30.6 Kazbegi

One of the best day trips from Tbilisi is Kazbegi. This sleepy mountain village close to the Russian border is surrounded by some majestic peaks of the Caucasus. Come here for the fresh air, the hiking trails, the monastery on top of the hill and the endless mountain views. My trip to Kazbegi was one of my highlights of more than 2 weeks traveling in Georgia. Read here all my Kazbegi travel tips.

31. Where to stay in Tbilisi

Just like in any other capital there are endless places to stay in Tbilisi. Though it must be said that in summer season Tbilisi hotel rooms are in high demand. This is simply because Tbilisi tourism is flourishing. If you have read all of the above you can understand that this is an amazing city to visit. So if you are looking for a hotel in Tbilisi in peak season I recommend you to book ahead.

 There are a handful 5 star hotels in Tbilisi, but not that many as you may think. There are actually a couple openings in the next year like Sheraton and Hilton. 

31.1 Best luxury hotels in Tbilisi:

Stamba Hotel Tbilisi: trendy, urban chic design hotel. Review score: 9.6. Price: $250 .

Rooms Hotel Tbilisi: luxury hotspot in Tbilisi. Review score: 9,0. Price: $200 .

31.2 Boutique hotels in Tbilisi

Bloom Boutique Hotel Tbilisi: classical and popular boutique hotel with super homey atmosphere. Review score: 9.5. Price: $110 .

Shota @ Rustaveli Boutique Hotel: spacious rooms, contemporary interior. Review Score: 9.4 Price: $130 .

31.3 Tbilisi Hotels for under $100 per night

Moxy Tbilisi by Marriott: great location, top service, nice contemporary hotel. Review score: 8.7. Price: $90 .

Stay Boutique Hotel Tbilisi: great value for money, simple but lovely. Review score: 9.9. Price: $60 .

Ethno Hotel: quaint boutique hotel, very detailed. Review score: 9.8. Price: $90 .

31.4 Cheap Tbilisi Hotels

Let me first tell you that there are a ton of options if you are looking for cheap hotels in Tbilisi. The following crossed my path when I was looking for places to stay on a budget.

Renaissance Hotel Tbilisi: Good location, great rooftop. Review Score: 9.0. Price: $40 .

Freedom Square Apart Hotel: Central location. Modern interior. Review Score: 9.5. Price: $35 .

31.5 Hostels in Tbilisi

Fabrika Hostel: big hostel, perfect for solo travelers. Review score: 9.0. Price: $10 .

Dvizh Hostel Eli Spali: very central and homey atmosphere. Review Score 9.2. Price: $10 .

31.6 Airbnb in Tbilisi

Another option is to rent an Airbnb in Tbilisi. You will see that there are many options available. For the best location pick something close to Rustaveli Avenue, Freedom Square or Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue.

I stayed in several places around the city. Sometimes in hotels, but most of the times in an Airbnb. To rent a complete apartment you are looking at around $30 per night. If you want $30 free Airbnb credit then sign up with this link. If you already have an account, create a new account with a different email and get $30 off as well. Easy as hell! :)

This was the view from one of my $30 a night Airbnb's.

Enjoy your trip to Tbilisi!

Thank you for reading my travel blog and I hope all these Tbilisi travel tips were valuable to you. In case you missed it I also wrote about my daily life in the capital in Georgia. My Tbilisi travel blog is about the best coffee places and how I lived like a local. Also wrote about my trip to Kazbegi and the cheap helicopter ride. If you travel to Georgia you might also be interested to travel to Batumi on the Black Sea.

If this was helpful would you please share the link on Facebook or in relevant Facebook groups? Tweet it on Twitter or Pin it on Pinterest. Any share on social media would be wonderful. A small thing for you to do, but could make a big difference for me! Thank you very much.

A guide to visit Tbilisi (includes off-beat things)

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on April 25, 2024

I lived in Tbilisi for 7 months. And every time someone asks me why they should visit Tbilisi, I say:

I love Tbilisi because it has the perfect balance between something very exotic and traditional, yet it is European and Westernized enough to live in comfortably. 

From traditional bazaars to craft beer scene growing daily, a perfectly-shaped Old City with colorful facades and wooden balconies, a great Communist heritage, epic cathedrals, lakes, and much, much more, Tbilisi is an absolutely great capital to visit.

Based on my experience in this city, I have written this comprehensive travel guide to visit Tbilisi in a 5-day itinerary, with a special mention of off the beaten track things to do in Tbilisi , as well as loads of travel tips, from transportation to my favorite restaurants in the city. 

In this travel guide to Tbilisi you will find:

Table of Contents

• Where to stay
• Tbilisi off the beaten track
• Transportation
• Where to eat
• Where to drink
• Best cafés for digital nomads
• More information

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🪪 Visa for traveling to Tbilisi

A total of 94 countries can get a 365-day FREE visa upon arrival in the country. 

As a tourist, you won’t be staying there for 1 year, but this is a great visa policy for those digital nomads who want to live in a cheap country without going through any bureaucratic hassle. 

The best part is that you can get this 1 year automatically renewed by leaving the country and re-entering immediately, including crossing the Armenian border.

Moreover, people from countries who don’t appear on the list may apply for an e-visa through this website . 

🏨 Where to stay in Tbilisi

Hostel  – Fabrika ( My preferred choice) – Fabrika is a hostel built in a massive abandoned factory in the area of Marjanishvili, a pretty cool area where you find several cafés and hipster-like bars. It is kind of where the open-minded Georgians and expats hang out. They have both dorms and private rooms and host travelers of all ages. 

Best Hotel – Stamba – Stamba is a really beautiful, relatively new hotel, located in downtown. The decoration is very rustic and it has a couple of independent boutiques and concept stores. They also have a very famous restaurant that is always stuffed with wealthy Georgians. 

Budget Guest House Old City – Guest House Lile – A beautiful, very cozy guest house, located at the heart of the traditional part of the Old Town. 

Best Super Budget Hostel – Pushkin 10 Hostel – A cheaper option than Fabrika, this hostel is just outside the walls of the Old City. Really comfortable and everything is brand-new. 

🗺️ Best tours from Tbilisi

This blog always tries to encourage independent travel but, if you are short in time, and want to travel comfortably, GetYourGuide offers a wide range of budget tours which can be booked with just one click and are always conducted by professional local guides.

So far, these are some of their most popular tours in and from Tbilisi:

• Day trip to Kazbegi – One of the most stunning mountain regions in Georgia.
• Day trip to the wine region of Kakheti – Wine tasting and lovely European-like towns.
• Day trip to Mtskheta, Gori, and Uplitsikhe – UNESCO World Heritage Churches, Stalin’s birthplace and a cave city.
• Day trip to Davit Gareja & wine-tasting   – The best cave monastery city in Georgia and 
• Tbilisi walking tour – Explore Tbilisi with a professional guide.

Top places to visit in Tbilisi

If you have more than a few days, here you can read a complete 1-week Georgia Itinerary

Tbilisi Itinerary on day 1 – Exploring the Old Town, from Freedom Square to the Mother of Georgia

You should explore the beautiful Old Town when you visit Tbilisi on day 1. 

On this Tbilisi travel guide, I have highlighted the most important landmarks in the map below but you should also wander around all the narrow alleys to discover the beautiful facades Tbilisi is famous for, as well as the many peculiar statues, churches, and synagogues. 

Remember that, for more generic insights to the Georgian culture, read my Georgia travel guide

Day 1 What to visit in Tbilisi – Map

1 – Freedom Square

Start your day in Freedom Square (or Liberty Square). This is the busiest spot in the city, the most used metro station and the square from where you can go in pretty much any direction.

During the Soviet Union, it used to be called Lenin Square and, where you see a golden statue of Saint George and the Dragon, there used to be a Lenin Statue which was pulled down shortly after Georgia got its independence in 1991.

Do you want to explore Tbilisi with a professional local guide ? CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

2 – Pushkin street

From Freedom Square, go down to Pushkin street, where you will see the last remains of the Old City wall, as well as quite a few buildings with traditional facades. Then, turn right just before  Ambassadori Hot el .

Traveling to Baku? Read my guide to visit Baku

3 – The Puppet Theatre and the clock tower

This twisted and architectonically weird, but pleasant to the eyes building, is the most Instagrammable spot in the city. On the hour, a small window in the upper part of the tower opens with some creepy mannequins coming out from it.

Actually, this is one of my least favorite places to visit in Tbilisi, but not because of the building but the cheesy atmosphere. 

I recommend, however, you sit at the terrace of Hangar Bar, a popular spot for expats despite its touristic location. They sell really cheap beers and you get a clear view of the building. 

4 – Anchiskhati Church

After no more than 20 meters, you will see the 6th-century Anchiskhati Church, the oldest in the country. It contains some really nice frescoes. 

5 – The Peace Bridge

If you continue straight, at some point you can turn left and see a sort of futuristic bridge called the Peace Bridge. It was built in 2010 to represent the transition from the dark past of Georgia to a more prosperous future. Some people don’t like because it looks too modern. I like it 🙂

The river that goes through the middle of Tbilisi is called the Mtkvari river (or Kura), and it flows 1,500km river from Turkey to the Caspian Sea, in Iran . 

6 – Meteki Church

The iconic church that sits at the edge of the cliff is from the 13th century and it was built by a Christian Georgian King, but later served several purposes, from barracks to a jail, and a theatre. During the last years of the USSR, a group of Christian people launched a campaign to restore its original purpose as a Church. 

7 – The sulfur baths

It is said that a Georgian King named Vakhtang, who lived in today’s Mtskheta in the 5th century, went hunting in this part of today’s Tbilisi when a wounded deer got miraculously healed after falling into a hot spring. He was so amazed by the curative properties of that place that he decided to move the capital from Mtskheta to Tbilisi. 

This part of the Old Town has been home to several bathhouses since the 12th century and today, they are a must-visit, especially if you visit Tbilisi during the colder months.

For more information, including prices, etc., check this guide: Visiting Tbilisi Sulphur Baths.

In the old Georgian language, Tbilisi literally means ” warm place ”, a name that originated after discovering the hot springs.

8 – Jumah Mosque

This is one of the very few mosques in the world where Sunni and Shia Muslims pray together.

Built in the 18th century by the Ottoman Empire (but destroyed and rebuilt several times), with its mud-brick walls, the building is totally camouflaged among the facades of the Old City.

Pro Tip – For some reason, the viewpoint from where you get the best perspective of the city is barely known for by most travelers. It is exactly here: 41.685942, 44.811485.

9 – Take the cable car to Narikala Fortress

When you travel to Tbilisi, one of the highlights is going up to Narikala Fortress before sunset, from where you can enjoy amazing panoramic views of the city.

You could actually walk but, if you want to take the cable car, you need to go back to Rike Park (the park right across the Peace Bridge).

The fortress dates from the 4th century. It was built by the Persians but it has served similar purposes for the Umayyads, several Georgian Kings, and the Mongols.

10 – The Mother of Georgia

This massive 20-meter aluminum female statue is frankly impressive, and polemical, as well.

The glass of wine that she holds in her left hand represents Georgian hospitality towards foreigners, whereas the sword that she holds in her right hand represents hostility to foreign invaders, a message clearly referring to the Russians. 

Read: Azerbaijan 3-week itinerary

Tbilisi Itinerary on day 2 – From Sameba Cathedral to Station Square

When you visit Tbilisi on your second day, I recommend you explore the other side of the Kura river.

Day 2 What to do in Tbilisi – Map

Sameba Cathedral

Sameba Cathedral is an utterly tall Church, the tallest in the country and one of the largest Orthodox Churches in the world. It is not an old Church, however, as it dates from 2004 and was built to commemorate the 2,000th anniversary of the birth of Jesus. Still, it is an impressive complex.

Avlabari neighborhood

Avlabari is the neighborhood just down from Sameba Cathedral. You won’t see any tourists here but a very local vibe, so different from the Old Town.

It is on your way to the next destination, so I recommend you check out its many traditional shops. By the way, this is the best place to buy churchkhela (the traditional candle-shaped candy).

Mushroom building

This mushroom-shaped building is where the administrative offices are. It worth checking out from outside and it is on the way anyways. 

The Soviet Market (Flea market)

In Daedena park, there is a flea market selling all sorts of Soviet artifacts, from gas masks to coins with Stalin’s face and more.

By the way, in this park, there are also some second-hand book shops which, basically, are wooden shelves placed on the handrail of the river. 

Read: A guide to visit Iran

Marjanishvili

Marjanishvili is the new trending neighborhood and the area I used to spend most of my time in, as it had a few bars, good restaurants, digital nomad cafés, and there weren’t many tourists around.

Here you will find a few abandoned factories from the USSR, an abandoned theater and traditional architecture.

Dezerter Bazaar

If you continue straight towards Station Square, you will bump into Dezerter Bazaar, the largest traditional market in the city, selling absolutely everything, from loads of coffee to fruit, electronics and everything you may think of. It is a chaotic bazaar in its most Middle Eastern style.

You can also find stalls selling grain coffee and buy an awesome espresso for 0.50GEL. 

Tbilisi Itinerary on day 3 – Downtown, Tbilisi Sea, Chronicles of Georgia

On your day 3 visiting Tbilisi, explore the new part of town by walking Rustaveli Avenue all the way to Vake. Then, go to the suburbs to visit a very unique monument and a massive lake. 

Rustaveli is one of the main avenues in Tbilisi and was named after Shota Rustaveli, a Georgian poet considered the greatest contributor to Georgian literature.

Day 3 What to visit in Tbilisi – Map

The National Museum of Georgia

From the first pre-historic civilizations that inhabited the region until the invasion of the USSR, the National Museum of Georgia showcases all the layers of history of today’s Georgia.

I was mainly interested in visiting the Soviet museum but, unfortunately, most of the shown documents shown were in Russian and the English explanation was rather poor, so I didn’t learn much about it. You can, however, hire a guide or get an audio speaking guide. The entrance fee is 7GEL.

The Georgian Parliament

The Georgian Parliament is the place which is currently witnessing the transition from a religious, conservative state into a modern, progressive society. You should know that, in Tbilisi, two kinds of society coexist: the ultra-religious, homophobe wing and the open-minded young crowd who are demanding change.

For more information, read the ”Country” section of my Georgia Travel Guide . 

Well, this Parliament is the place where this young crowd gathers for protesting every single week, like the massive electronic rave that was organized against the closing of Bassiani, a famous techno club that welcomes the LGBT community, in which the police organized a nonsensical, abusive and violent raid.

That peaceful protest was disturbed by Georgian religious nationalists and ended up with some crazy violence. I witnessed it myself. 

The rest of Rustaveli Avenue

From checking the Opera House to fancy shops, some churches, and quite a few majestic buildings, Rustaveli is a pleasant place to walk through. 

If you want to check out a different area, Vake is the neighborhood where the Georgian middle-upper class lives, hence where you will find the fanciest restaurants and shops, but also the most open-minded Georgians and still, traditional architecture.

I recommend you walk all the way until Mziuri Park, a beautiful park with very nice statues whose center is dominated by a really nice outdoor café where the young students gather for coffee or beers. 

Chronicles of Georgia

The Chronicles of Georgia is a massive, odd monument visible from many places in the city and composed of giant pillars whose walls are decorated with some outstanding carvings that showcase different episodes of the history of Georgia and Christianity, like a representation of  Saint Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia, and several Georgian Kings. 

Moreover, from here you get a double epic view, Tbilisi Sea on one side and the Soviet suburbs on the other. 

How to get to the Chronicles of Georgia: 

• By metro: Get off at Guramishvili or Grmagele Metro Station and then walk for 20 minutes. 
• By taxi: By Yandex, from downtown, it should cost around 15GEL.

Tbilisi Sea

A nearly 10-kilometer artificial lake that serves as a reservoir, Tbilisi Lake is a different dimension from Tbilisi’s urban jungle.

It has plenty of beaches and picnic spots but I recommend you go on the area highlighted on the map, as it has a few pretty cool bars which are perfect places to end your day over a few beers. You can only come here by car.

Are you traveling to Central Asia? Here you can read my guide to the Stan countries

🧭 Extending your Tbilisi itinerary – Off the beaten track places to visit in Tbilisi

You will need at least 2 days to discover all these places.

Map of the off the beaten track things to do in Tbilisi

Soviet Modernism and buildings

If you like Soviet relics, Tbilisi has a great offering of Communist Heritage which doesn’t appear in any Tbilisi travel guide but most importantly, it seems to be one of the pioneers of Soviet Modernism, an artistic movement that flourished during the last decades of the USSR and mainly consisted of buildings with weird shapes and lots of murals.

Soviet architecture seems to have its momentum among travelers who like to get off the beaten track and Tbilisi will not disappoint you. 

Bank of Georgia Headquarters

Built by the Soviets in the 70s to serve as the Ministry of Highway Construction, this piled-brick, unique and extravagant building was later acquired by the Bank of Georgia. You can’t enter inside but seeing it from outside is the best part.

Soviet Murals & statues

There is a large collection of Soviet murals and statues all over the city. I have highlighted 3 of them on the above map but you can check all the locations on this link . These are the location of my 3 favorite ones:

• Technical University Metro station
• Fire Station Sarbutalo
• Georgia Exposition Center

If you like offbeat Soviet stuff, you will definitely enjoy the capital of Minsk. Read my travel guide to Minsk

Wedding Palace

Another example of extravagant Soviet Modernism, this cathedral-shaped building was built as a wedding palace. Later, it was purchased by a wealthy Georgian and today, it is leased for private events. 

Triple Soviet Block

Not part of the Soviet Modernism movement but for Soviet architecture lovers, this is an absolutely impressive piece and one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi.

It consists of three massive Soviet, concrete buildings connected by a metal bridge from where you get stunning views of Tbilisi’s Communist skyline.

The bridge is crossed quite often, as it is the only way to access the upper part of the neighborhood on foot. You can go up, no problem. The elevator works with coins (like most elevators in this area).

The Soviet cable car that takes you to Turtle Lake

If you think the cable car that goes all the way up to Narikhala fortress is too modern, and boring, then I recommend you take the one in Vake that takes you straight to the Turtle Lake.

It is one of those tuna can-shaped, rusty boxes, not very stable, but as solid as any Soviet artifact/construction. 

Abandoned hippodrome

An abandoned hippodrome today has become a place where Georgians come for a run or to hang out with their dogs. From here, you can also get a pretty cool view of Tbilisi’s Soviet skyline.

I lived 10 minutes away from this place, so used to come here for a run every couple of days.

More off the beaten track things to do in Tbilisi

These are other off the beaten track places to visit in Tbilisi.

They aren’t Soviet Heritage but still worth to visit. 

Kyiv also has plenty of off the beaten track stuff. Read my travel guide to Kyiv

Abandoned trains of Gostiridze

Right next to the train station of Gostiridze there are, literally, one hundred abandoned trains of all colors and some of them have been turned into houses which actual families live in.

You can walk around the area, enter inside the trains and do whatever the hell you want. Even the people living in those trains didn’t tell me anything. 

Abandoned Cable Car Station of Rustaveli

Located downtown, in one of the fanciest spots in the city, but hidden among the buildings, you find this circular, abandoned building that used to serve as a cable car station until they shut it down due to an accident in which some people died. 

Tbilisi underground Street Art

As you may notice, Tbilisi is packed with underground passages all over the city which, somehow, replace the crosswalks from the main streets.

These underground passages are actually pretty interesting to see because they are home to some sub-cultures, from musicians to traditional shops and, of course, pieces of very elaborated street art.

The two most impressive ones are the passages located down of Heroes Square and at the end of Pushkin Street (river side). Both places are highlighted on the map.

Not a very off-beat thing but still, a spot barely visited by most tourists. Lisi Lake is a tiny lake located in Sarbutalo, whose shores are filled with many bars and it is a popular meeting point among the young crowd who gather to have a bath or drink some beers.

A really cool place to spend the day. 

I recommend visiting Tbilisi’s Chinatown to those people who have (a lot of) time and like weird, stuff because this place is really weird and obscure. 

All right, Chinatown is a ghost mall, absolutely huge by the way, where you find weird stores, like a one selling souvenirs and clothes from Turkmenistan.

The shops are open and all people working are Chinese, yet, there is no one shopping and, in the outdoor part, you find super authentic Chinese restaurants always packed with Chinese. 

It doesn’t make sense and it is a waste of money but Georgians say that it was built for money laundering purposes. 

🛺 Transportation in Tbilisi

How to get from/to the airport.

• Bus – You can take bus #37 which goes from the airport to Freedom Square, right in front of the fancy mall. It costs 0.50GEL, like a single metro/bus ride. 
• Taxi – If you have Yandex (the Russian Uber), a taxi ride to the city center should cost around 20GEL (6-7€). If you don’t have the app, good luck bargaining the price with the taxi drivers. Their rates start at 30GEL and if they see you are a tourist, they may ask 50 or 60GEL. 

The metro in Tbilisi consists of those very deep metro stations characteristic of the Soviet Union. There are two lines and they go to pretty much all the places I mentioned in the Tbilisi itinerary. One single ticket costs 0.50GEL, but remember to buy the metro card, which costs a few additional GEL. 

Where the metro doesn’t go, you can take the bus and Google Maps tells you the bus number when you calculate the route. It works with the same metro card, but you can also buy single tickets in the bus. 

Yellow mini-vans

The abundant yellow mini-vans are a faster alternative to the buses but they are more difficult to use because the signs are in the Georgian alphabet. A single ride costs 0.80GEL. 

As I said, download Yandex or Taxify (it is slightly more expensive). With these two apps, rides within the city cost 3 to 5GEL. 

There are two functional cable cars, the one that takes you to Narikala fortress and the one that goes to Turtle Lake. Both work with the regular metro card. 

There is a funicular that takes you all the way up to Mtatsminda Park just behind Rustaveli. You need to buy a special card. 

Bus station to Mtskheta, Kutaisi, Kazbegi , Batumi or Borjomi

To go in those directions, you should go to the station located in Didube, where you also find a traditional bazaar worth checking out. Didube is also a metro station. A taxi from the city center would cost around 8GEL. 

Bus station to Sighnaghi, Telavi, Yerevan

To go in these directions, the bus station is named Ortachala and this is the location: 41.675794, 44.834233 . (By the way, buses and marshrutkas to Yerevan also leave from Didube and Station Square but I think in Ortachala you have more options. The closest metro station is  Isani, 15 minutes away on foot. 

Train Station

The train station is located in Station Square and the different lines connect Tbilisi with Batumi and go all the way up to Zugdidi and everything in between. You can also take a train to Yerevan and Baku . Tickets can be purchased at the station itself, but you can also book in advance on this website . 

🍲 Where to eat in Tbilisi

This section focuses on my favorite restaurants in Tbilisi. For a detailed explanation of Georgian food, remember to check my travel guide to Georgia . 

Mid-range restaurant (My favorite) – Culinarium Khasheria – The chef is a lady who used to live in different parts of Europe and then she opened this restaurant serving traditional food with a modern touch. It has a great selection of local wines as well. By the way, the restaurant is located in a very touristy area and, for this reason, you are likely to see some tourists but there are many locals as well and, in any case, several Georgians recommended this place to me. 

Mid-range restaurant – Shavi Lomi – An outdoor, very quiet restaurant at the heart of Marjanishvili serving traditional food. All the Georgian food on the menu is great and I recommend you get gobi as a starter. 

Fancy restaurant – Barbarestan – The fanciest restaurant in town serving local, high cuisine. In my opinion, it is a bit overrated but that it is because you also pay for the excellent service and the setup. 

Local budget restaurant – Mapshalia – For just a few laris, this traditional local eatery is very authentic and barely discovered by travelers.

Best Khachapuri Adjaluri – Retro – This restaurant was right next to my apartment and the locals told me that they serve one of the best Khachapuri Adjaluris (boat-shaped bread with cheese) in town. 

Best Khinkali and traditional food – Shemoikhede Genatsvale – Also pretty cheap and not discovered by travelers, this is the best budget restaurant to taste the largest variety of traditional food and many locals claim that they serve some of the best khinkalis . 

Try to avoid Machakhela – A popular Georgian chain which has restaurants all over the city. Seriously, they have 30 or 40, and always in the most convenient locations. They tend to be busy but the food is average compared to the restaurants from the list, so don’t go there.  

🍻 Where to drink in Tbilisi

These are some of the bars I used to go drinking:

Amodi – Local vibe and good for both beers and dinner. This bar is located on the upper part of the Old Town, so you get a pretty panoramic view of the city. 

Bauhaus – Outdoor bar located in Daedena Park and a place where you can be drinking beer from early afternoon to 4 or 5am. It is always filled with locals. 

Fabrika – Fabrika was my favorite after-work place. Great atmosphere and several bars to choose from. 

Warszawa – When you don’t know where to go, you go to Warszawa to have some quick shots. You will recognize it because there are always groups of people standing and drinking outside of it. 

Dive Bar – This is like an institution in Tbilisi. They serve cheap, craft beer and the people are a mixture of regular expats and cool Georgians. 

☕ Best cafés for digital nomads in Tbilisi

These are just some of the cafés where I used to work:

Prospero’s Books – Really quiet, nice outdoor area and a working atmosphere. 

Fabrika – The best internet plus it has the main advantage that the best after work area is right next door. 

Kiwi Café – A vegan-friendly café. 

The Coffee Lab – The best coffee in town. 

Hurma – Nice breakfast and a working atmosphere as well.

❗ More information for visiting Tbilisi

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Georgia destination

• Travel Guide to Kakheti
• Travel Guide to Kazbegi
• Georgia Travel Guide
• Georgia Itinerary
• Best Books on Georgia
• Trekking Guide to Georgia

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Muscat Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Dubai
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Baku Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Nouakchott
• A City Guide to Mosul

10 comments

wow, I wish you had published this earlier, as I just went to Tbilisi last week. Anyways, what a great guide to Tbilisi. Sadly, I didn’t visit any of the of the off the beaten track places, even though I passed by that station Gostiridze on my way to Didube 🙁 Question: you said you lived there. Did you rent an apartment on Airbnb or what did you do? I just found the Airbnb apartments to be quite pricey.

Hi Marc, we rented it through a local website named place.ge. It was difficult because many of the agents didn’t speak english but we found a few who did. We paid 300USD for a 1-bedroom apartment in Sarbutalo. Pretty good and you could sign a 6-months contract. The people I met who rented it through Airbnb paid doubler than us.

Great info!

We’ve been in Tbilisi for 2 months so far and love all your suggestions of things to see and do. We did, however, get arrested while walking through the abandoned trains so anyone hoping to see them should keep that in mind. The police weren’t too bad and just made us delete our photos but it was a bit nerve wracking being escorted to the station…

really? I am so sorry to hear that, i had no idea you could get in trouble for doing that. I just walked around freely without any problem!

Hi , did you run the trip to Kurdistan, and will you be running the expedition to Georgia soon? Thanks

Hi Michael, the trip to Kurdistan will take place on May 21st. Georgia expedition doesn’t have a date set

I really like your blog. I think you’re the best travel blogger I’ve come across. Your writing style is easy to read, but detailed enough. Just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate what you’re doing. Keep it up!

thanks for your kind comment Patrick! Yes, I like to keep it simple but at the same time insightful 🙂

You are a perfect guide writer:) Thank yo so much!

I have a feeling that in a place like this, you won’t experience the ugliness of political cultures like you would in developed regions. The isolation in this town seems to give people a sense of escapism.

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14 Top Things to Do in Tbilisi – Tbilisi Travel Guide

Wondering what are the top things to do in Tbilisi? Here is our guide to the best things to do and the best places to visit in Tbilisi. Keep reading this article to make the best out of your visit to Tbilisi.

Beautiful churches, amazing singing, great food, and a fantastic culture …that’s Tbilisi in a nutshell! Cynthia and I lived for about four months in Tbilisi, the gorgeous capital of Georgia . Just thinking about this city brings back thousands of beautiful memories .

Tbilisi has a huge cultural and historical richness, unlike anything we have experienced anywhere before. When we lived there, we fell in love with the city and its people and took our time to discover this gorgeous place.

We fell in love with this gorgeous city…

Tbilisi is a fantastic city! It’s a place where you can taste some of the most iconic Georgian dishes , the best Georgian wines , see some amazing traditions and it’s also a good starting point to do some of the most amazing hikes in Georgia !

If you’re a remote worker and work online, you should also know that Tbilisi is one of the best cities in the world for digital nomads !

Tbilisi is positioned right in the center of the country and it’s easily reached by public transport from the borders of Turkey and Azerbaijan . It also takes only a few hours to reach the city by train from Batumi .

We loved this city so much that we just can’t wait to go back! To help you fall in love with Tbilisi, here is a guide to the top activities to do in the city. It also includes the best places to visit in Tbilisi, as well as where to stay and where to eat in Tbilisi.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A few things you need to know before going to Tbilisi

Tbilisi is a very big city. It’s the biggest city in Georgia and now has a population of over one million inhabitants.

Tbilisi literally means ”warm place” in the Georgian language because the city was built in an area where there are a lot of sulfurous hot springs (I’ll tell you how to bathe in them farther down).

Because Tbilisi has the most important airport in the country, usually, most of the people will start their Georgian journey in Tbilisi, or Tbilisi will be the only place they will visit in Georgia.

The city of Tbilisi has different districts but most of the interesting sights and places to see are located near the old town.

The old town of Tbilisi looks the same way it has for centuries and is super well preserved. It has beautiful narrow alleys and old houses built around small courtyards.

If you love churches, you’re in the ideal city to see plenty of beautiful ones! Tbilisi has a lot of gorgeous churches and I’ll tell you which ones to visit in this guide.

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Have a look at all our articles about Georgia!

Where is Tbilisi?

Tbilisi is located right in the center of Georgia. It’s 5 hours from Tusheti and 6 hours from Batumi by car.

The city lies in the Eastern part Georgia on both banks of the Mt’k’vari River.

Find out what are the top things to do in Batumi!

Recommendations and tips before visiting Tbilisi

The younger generation in Tbilisi generally speaks a bit of English but if you want to get closer to the Georgian culture, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to pick up a few Georgian words.

Here are a few Georgian expressions that will help you in Tbilisi:

Gamarjoba : Hello

Didi madloba : This means thank you very much

Gaumarjos : Cheers

Because Georgia has been part of the Soviet Union for a very long period of time, the older generation also speaks perfect Russian.

Learning a few words or expressions in Georgian or Russian before visiting the country will definitely be handy.

If learning languages is not your thing, I would recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Russian phrasebook and dictionary . It’s packed with thousands of sentences that will help you in different situations and scenarios such as ordering food or finding a place to stay.

I would also recommend getting a map software on your phone that works offline.

Maps.me has helped us navigate the narrow streets of Tbilisi and many other Georgian cities.

One of the cool features of Maps.me is that it can be used both online and offline. Connect to the wifi at your hostel and download a map of the part of Tbilisi you wish to explore. This map works with the GPS chip in your phone so it will continue working, even when you’re offline.

And finally, I highly recommend getting a Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle . Although the tap water in Tbilisi is not dangerous, it may contain many new bacteria that your body just isn’t used to.

If you drink water using this bottle, any dirt, bacteria or parasites gets trapped in its filter, while the clean water passes through.

Check out these awesome itineraries around Georgia !

Arriving at Tbilisi airport and reaching Tbilisi airport from the city center

There are three different ways that you can reach the city center of Tbilisi from the airport, by taxi, by bus or by train.

By train : You can take a train from the airport to the main train station in Tbilisi, however, it only runs at 8.45 am and 6.05 pm.

By bus : There’s a minibus (#37) that runs daily (from 7 am to 11 pm) to and from the airport to the city center (Rustaveli station or Freedom Square). It costs only 0.50 GEL and you pay the driver but it can take up to 45 minutes to reach the city center as it stops everywhere along the way.

By tax i: There will be plenty of taxi drivers at the airport who will be very happy driving you to the city center. You’ll have to bargain for the price but the normal rate for a taxi to and from the airport shouldn’t be more than 30 GEL!

Alternatively, instead of hailing a cab at the airport, you could use Yandex providing that the airport wi-fi works well. Yandex is an app that works in Georgia the same way Uber does in other countries. Taxi drivers in Tbilisi tend to ask exorbitant prices if they see you’re a foreigner.

For Georgia as for Central-Asian countries like Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan , it’s better to download the Yandex app on your phone.

Yandex works as a cab-hailing app meaning you won’t have to negotiate directly with the driver and you can avoid being ripped off. If you use Yandex in Tbilisi, the taxi rides become extremely cheap.

Discover Tusheti, Georgia’s most beautiful and remote region

Should you exchange money at Tbilisi airport?

Airport exchange offices are never the best place to change money, I would suggest just changing a small amount of cash into Lari at the airport and then heading to the city center.

It’s better to exchange money directly in Tbilisi. However, I would advise not changing money in the very touristic parts of town such as in Freedom Square or near the Old Town.

Also, another thing you need to be wary about is that some exchange offices in Tbilisi have commission rates as high as 30%. Before you exchange any currency in Tbilisi, make sure that the company where you’re exchanging money does not have any commission fee.

Is Tbilisi safe?

After living in Tbilisi for four months and visiting it countless times afterward, I would say that Tbilisi is a very safe city.

There is a strong presence of police in the touristic parts of the city so no need to feel unsafe. Violent crime happens very rarely in Tbilisi and it never targets foreigners.

With the recent increase in tourism however, it’s important to be aware that the most popular parts of town might attract pickpockets.

The best solution to avoid being pick-pocketed in Tbilisi is to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings at all times. You should leave all your important items at your hotel and walk around only with what you need.

I suggest always keeping your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag . I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

When is the best time of the year to visit Tbilisi?

Winters in Georgia can be extremely cold while in Summer, the city of Tbilisi will become super busy and crowded with tourists.

I would say, the best time to visit the city, in terms of tourist density and ideal weather is in the Spring and during Fall.

What are the top things to do in Tbilisi?

1. visit the gorgeous cathedrals of tbilisi.

The amount of beautiful churches and cathedrals in Tbilisi is absolutely mind-boggling. If you’re a fan of stunning old buildings with beautiful architecture, Tbilisi is the place for you! Wherever you stand in the city, there will always be a church not too far from you.

One of the most beautiful and impressive churches in Tbilisi is the Holy Trinity cathedral. The Georgians know it as ”Sameba”.

It’s located on Elia Hill above the left bank of the Mtkvari in the historic neighborhood of Avlabari.

This huge cathedral was built between 1995 and 2004 so it’s not as historical as the other cathedrals in the city. It’s still very impressive though.

Sameba is the third largest Orthodox cathedral in the world.

Another very beautiful church to visit in Tbilisi is St. Nikoloz church. This church is located at one of the oldest fortress of the city, the fortress of Narikala.

The view you’ll get of the city from this church is stunning! The shortest and most exciting way to reach Narikala is going there by the cable car from Rike Park.

Here is where you’ll St. Nikoloz church and Narikal fortress in Tbilisi:

2. Get lost in the old Town of Tbilisi

Whenever I visit a new city, one of my favorite things to do is to walk around the older, more historical part. When Cynthia and I arrived in Tbilisi, one of the first things we did was going for a stroll in the old town.

The Old Town of Tbilisi is a mix of old and new architecture. It’s a gorgeous mix of cobblestones, cafes, local art shops and colors.

It has been renovated a lot over the last few years. These renovations maintained the authentic look and style of construction that was originally used to build the houses so it’s an area that still feels very authentic.

The old town is where you’ll find all of the most awesome cafes in town. It’s also where you can enjoy some hot sulfur baths (see below).

3. Enjoy a Georgian sulfur bath

Taking baths of boiling water was quite popular during the Soviet period. Many people would do it as a form of therapy since long immersions in hot water were supposed to have some healing benefits.

Tbilisi was built in an area that was known for its hot springs, in fact, the name Tbilisi itself means the ”hot place”. It’s possible to enjoy hot sulfur baths in the old town of Tbilisi near the Abanotubani district.

These hot indoor pools are the best place in Tbilisi to relax your calves after a long walk around town. The baths feel especially good if you visit them during the colder months of the year.

Prices for the sulfur bath vary a lot. There are public rooms available for 3 GEL. The cheapest private rooms are 30 GEL while the more expensive ones go for 100 GEL.

The style of the private rooms also varies depending on the price you pay for them. The cheaper rooms are very basic, they have a soviet-era kind of look with just a hot bath and a cold shower.

The more expensive rooms, on the other hand, can be quite luxurious. They sometimes come with their own private saunas and they are much bigger.

4. Walk across the bridge of peace

Although my girlfriend use to joke that this bridge looks like a sanitary pad flipped upside down, it’s a very beautiful and romantic place to spend the evening.

Some locals even say that you haven’t really been to Tbilisi if you haven’t crossed that bridge.

It crosses the Kura river and connects the old town with Rike Park.

The bridge is equipped with LED lights that glow at night with the colors of the Georgian flag.

Here is the location of the peace bridge in Tbilisi:

5. Visit the Mtatsminda park and get a gorgeous view of the city

If you want the most gorgeous view of the city, you should head over to Mtatsminda Park. It’s the highest point in Tbilisi and the view you can get from this park is stunning!

It’s a particularly good place to enjoy the sunset and a famous romantic spot for young Georgian couples.

You’ll have a gorgeous view of the city from the Ferris Wheel in Mtatsminda Park…

The park has a lot of restaurants and bars as well as a Ferris wheel from which you can see the whole city. There’s also an amusement park with plenty of roller coasters to go on.

You can reach this park with the bus 124 or by the Funicular railway.

6. Take a cable car to the mother of Georgia

Going up to the statue of the mother of Georgia located above the old town is an absolute must while in Tbilisi. The best way to get there is to take a cable car from Rike Park.

These are two great activities in one! By taking the cable car (you could also walk up) you’ll get a fantastic view above the old city.

The cable car is also super cheap (just one Lari).

The cable car to the mother of Georgia will give you an amazing view of the old town…

The perfect representation for the Georgian national character is the 20-meter aluminum statue of Kartvlis Deda in Tbilisi.

This monumental “Mother of Georgia” is holding a cup of wine in one hand, which stands for hospitality and a sword in the other, which represents the Georgian’s love of freedom and fierceness to fight for their liberty.

The mother of Georgia statue is quite impressive…

She is the protector and the definition of what Georgia was, is and will be: friends will be welcomed with wine, enemies with a sword!

Here is where you’ll see the gorgeous statue in Tbilisi:

7. Swim under some waterfalls

When people hear the name Tbilisi, they rarely associate it with waterfalls but surprisingly enough, Tbilisi has two of them and stunning ones on top of that!

One of these two waterfalls is located in the botanical garden of Tbilisi and it’s not forbidden to swim underneath it so don’t forget your swimsuit!

The other one is in the old town, close to the sulfur bath. It’s better to swim there on a hot summer day since this water never really warms up and stays rather cool throughout the year.

8. Enjoy savory traditional Georgian dishes

Alexander Pushkin once said – ”Every Georgian dish is a poem” and it’s absolutely true! Nowhere will you have dishes as savory and delicious as in Georgia.

The food in Georgia is fantastic and the best place to try it is in Tbilisi. It’s meat-heavy and usually contains a lot of cheese but if you don’t like eating meat too much, Tbilisi also has some great vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

Have a look at our article 10 dishes from the Georgian cuisine you absolutely have to try . It will give you an insight into Georgian cuisine and will give you an idea about the dishes you could sample in Tbilisi.

9. Try some Georgian candies

Tbilisi is the best place to try some traditional Georgian candies. The most delicious one, in my opinion, is Churchkhela . It looks like a sausage and has walnuts inside.

The first time my girlfriend and I saw churchkhela, we thought it was some kind of decoration. Maybe people liked to hang colored sausages in the front windows of their stores

We later found out that it’s a traditional Georgian candy. The main ingredients are almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts or sometimes raisins that are threaded onto a string.

The string is repeatedly dipped in concentrated fresh grape juice which dries into a chewy gelatin-like coating around the nuts. It’s packed with protein and sugar and is often served at home with coffee. A healthy candy for sweet teeth like us!

Another great Georgian candy to try is called Taklpi . It’s a fruit roll that comes in various flavors, plums, apple, and kiwi, just to name a few.

10. Go on a day trip or on a multi-day trip outside of the city

Tbilisi is the perfect base for a day trip around the city or for a week-long adventure around Georgia . The most popular day trip from Tbilisi is to a holy Georgian town called Mtskheta.

Mtskheta is located just 20 km away from Tbilisi and it’s one of the 15 best places to visit in Georgia . We explain how to reach this little town in this article .

If you plan to go on a big tour of Georgia and use Tbilisi as a base you can find some great itineraries in Georgia in 15 days – 3 Complete Travel Itineraries for backpackers, adventurers, and culture lovers .

If you would prefer a guided day trip outside of Tbilisi have a look at these great tours:

-From Tbilisi: David Gareji Monastery Where Time Stands Still

-Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Gori, Stalin Museum & Uplistsikhe Tour

-Borjomi & Bakuriani: Small-Group Full-Day Tour from Tbilisi

– Kazbegi, Gergeti & Ananuri Mountains Private Full-Day Tour

11. Enjoy the nightlife in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has a cool selection of bars, pubs, and clubs that are garnering international attention. There is always some cool event or party going on! All you need to do is to have fun.

If you want to party like a local in Tbilisi, you should check out Canudos Ethnic Bar. It has a pretty chill and fun ambiance.

Here is where you’ll find this bar in Tbilisi:

If you’re into electronic music, then the best option is the Bassiani club. This is where you’ll find it:

12. Visit a flea market filled with soviet-era antiques

This flea market is called the dry bridge bazaar and it’s the best place to find paraphernalia of old soviet-era items.

You can find absolutely everything and anything here, from paintings, and soviet buttons, to paintings and drinking horns. Yes, you heard that right, drinking horns!

After the fall of communism, locals started coming here to sell their goods in the hope of making a bit of cash. It became the primary means of survival for some people and they have been buying and reselling things in this market ever since.

Prices may be a bit overinflated, especially if the sellers realize you’re a foreigner. It’s better to go with a friend that speaks Russian or Georgian and that has good bargaining skills.

This bazaar is open every day of the week from 10 AM until 5 PM unless it rains.

Here is its location:

13. Walk around the stunning Chronicle of Georgia

The Chronicle of Georgia or the ”monument of kings” as it’s also called is a stunning place. It’s surprisingly enough not a very known place in Tbilisi even among locals.

The Chronicle of Georgia consists of gigantic pillars that reminded us of Stonehenge.

The top parts are decorated with scenes of the history of Georgia, mainly with the kings and queens who reigned over the country while the lower parts portray the life of Jesus.

The monument was created by Zurab Tsereteli, a Georgian sculptor. The construction started in 1985 but it’s still partially incomplete.

It must take ages (and huge ladders) to create a monument of this size!

In front of the monument is a cross that represents the Cross of St Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia.

Behind the rock pillars is a small chapel and when you walk around them, you’ll have an amazing panoramic view over the Tbilisi Sea.

Find out how to visit this stunning monument in Discovering the Chronicle of Georgia – a hidden gem in Tbilisi .

14. Swim in Tbilisi sea

I started by telling you that Tbilisi has some waterfalls. Now I’ll make the city look even more exotic by telling you it has a sea!

Well, it’s not an actual sea but it’s a pretty decent water reservoir and it’s the perfect place to swim on a hot summer day.

Tbilisi sea opened in 1953 and became a popular spot for locals who want to escape the heat of the city during summer.

Bring some food and some water because there aren’t many food stands or restaurants near the rocky beaches of the artificial lake.

Here is where you’ll find Tbilisi sea:

You can take a taxi from Didube Metro Station to the Tbilisi sea. You’ll have to bargain for the price but don’t pay more than 12 GEL.

You could also take bus 11 or 36 to get there. Here is a website with all the different city buses in Tbilisi that can bring you to the reservoir.

Planning a trip to Georgia?

Read How much does it cost to travel and live in Georgia

Where to eat in Tbilisi – What are the best restaurants in Tbilisi?

If you’re a fan of delicious food and want to try everything the Georgian cuisine has to offer, you’ll have a blast in Tbilisi!

Tbilisi has traditional restaurants where you can sample the best of the Georgian gastronomy. There is also great European cuisine, and good vegan and vegetarian options in town.

Here are some of our favorite restaurants in the city:

Bina N37 is a lovely rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy some amazing Georgian food as well as great vegetarian dishes. This place has a very cozy and familiar atmosphere and the service is incredible!

The owner treats everyone with attention and care and the waiters are super attentive. Eating there feels almost like eating at your best friend’s house.

The spacious balcony with its wine barrels will instantly make you feel at home. If you want some traditional Georgian food , they have delicious Khinkalis and Khajapuris as well as some savory shashlik.

Here is where you’ll find this rooftop restaurant in Tbilisi:

If you fancy an affordable Italian meal in a romantic setting, Melograno is the place for you!

This restaurant offers Italian dishes made with the freshest and most delicious ingredients. Here, you’ll definitely get a lot for your money!

They have a great selection of pasta, fish, and vegetarian options. They also have a fantastic selection of homemade lemonades.

The outdoor courtyard is in the shade and it’s a great place to relax in the afternoon.

This restaurant is decorated to look like the inside of someone’s living room.

Black and white pictures, shelves full of books, and an old keyboard are some of the few elements that add to the cozy atmosphere of the place.

Nikolozi has very affordable prices and you’ll get nice big portions. I highly recommend the eggplant with walnut, the soup, and the khinkalli, they all taste so good. The homemade red wine is also a must!

Here is the location of Nikolozi:

Read also: Vardzia – the ancient Cave City of Georgia

Where to stay in Tbilisi? – What are the best hostels in Tbilisi?

Tbilisi is a city that is worth taking the time to discover so you’ll want to stay there at least a couple of nights.

Tbilisi has a wide choice of hostels for budget travelers who want to save money to explore during the day and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

It’s a city that can get pretty expensive during the summer holidays but there are still a few comfortable and more importantly, affordable places where you can stay.

Most hostels will charge you around 15 – 20 GEL ($6 – $8) for a night in a dorm. Here are some of the hostels that we recommend in Tbilisi:

Hostel terrace

The name of this hostel says it all, it has a gorgeous terrace from which you can admire the city center of Tbilisi. Hostel terrace is perfectly located right in the heart of Tbilisi right next to all of the interesting sights and attractions.

Cynthia and I loved relaxing and having a tasty breakfast with a view on the terrace of this hostel. The dorm rooms are very spacious and they have large windows.

Something I thought was really cool is that some of the rooms have a decorative fireplace. Although these fireplaces are just for show, they give the rooms a warm atmosphere.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Hostel terrace”

This hostel is super quiet and relaxing and if you want a good long night of sleep, it’s the place you should book. The hostel is in a big house on a very quiet street near the old city.

M42 is a place where you can find the perfect combination of positive energy, awesome people, friendly meetings and bright colors.

This hostel is super clean and spacious and it has a big garden where you relax with other travelers in the evening. If you’d rather cook your own food instead of eating out, the hostel has a super big kitchen with all the pots and pans you could need.

Click to check out rates and availability for “M42 Hostel”

Namaste Hostel

This hostel has a very artsy vibe and it’s beautifully decorated. Namaste offers bright dorms and private rooms with nice city views as well as a stunning terrace. Have a look at how gorgeous the hostel is !

It’s a very cozy hostel in a picturesque place. You can grab a morning coffee sitting on the wide balcony and watch the Old City while you slowly wake up.

Click to check out rates and availability for “Namaste Hostel”

How to get to Tbilisi?

How to get to Tbilisi from Batumi by train?

There is a train that goes from Batumi to Tbilisi twice a day. The train covers the distance between the two cities in five hours. The first train leaves Batumi at 07:30 AM and arrives in Tbilisi at 12:25 PM while the second train leaves at 18:55 PM and arrives at 23:50 PM.

We have never been able to buy a ticket on the Georgian railway official website. What we did instead was buying our tickets from the train station in Batumi one day in advance.

Here is the location of the train station in Batumi. It’s quite a long walk outside of the city, so I would advise hoping in a cab to get there:

Batumi is a lovely city to explore for a couple of days…

How to get to Tbilisi from Batumi by bus

There are two bus companies that operate between Batumi and Tbilisi, Metro Georgia and Book away . You can find the schedule for the different buses and their prices on this website . It takes 6 hours to cover the distance between the two cities by bus.

You can buy your tickets online ahead of time and then take the bus from this terminal:

Another option instead of taking a bus is hoping on a small shared van called a Marshrutka. They leave from the station just behind the Railway Station in the center of town, you just have to show up and they leave once they’re full.

How to get to Tbilisi from Batumi in your own car?

If you have your own car or if you’re renting one, you’ll have a pleasant journey driving from Batumi to Tbilisi. There are 374 km between the two cities and driving there takes almost 6 hours.

We hope you have a fantastic time in Tbilisi, we also hope that this guide helped you find the best activities and things to do in Tbilisi. Have you been to this city before or would you like to visit Tbilisi in the future? Let us know in the comments below or by contacting us .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service through one of the links, we get a commission at no extra costs to you! See it as a small donation to keep this blog going so we can create more awesome posts. Thank you!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – GEORGIA TRAVEL TIPS:

• Everything you need to know about traveling independently in Georgia (visa, how to get to and around Georgia, where to stay,…):

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking in Georgia

• Plan your trip to Georgia:

The best of Georgia in 15 days – 3 complete Travel Itineraries 

• Georgia travel costs:

Georgia on a budget – How much does it cost to travel to Georgia 

• Hiking in Georgia:

7 Beautiful off-the-beaten-path Hikes

• Skiing in Georgia:

Everything you need to know about skiing in Georgia

• Hitchhiking in Georgia:

Hitchhiking in Georgia – the good, the bad and the untold stories

• Our Georgian city guides:

Top Things to Do in Batumi – Our Guide to a Perfect Stay

Top Things to Do in Tbilisi – Our Guide to a Fantastic Time in Tbilisi

GEORGIA TRAVEL RESOURCES:

• Accommodation & Lodging:  Booking.com & Airbnb
• Car rental in Georgia:  Rentalcars.com
• Travel Insurance for Georgia:  World Nomads
• Detailed guides about hiking in Georgia: Caucasus Trekking
• Lonely Planet Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan
• Georgia Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture
• Georgia, a guide to the Cradle of Wine
• The First toast is to peace: travels in the South Caucasus

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• Why Georgia
• Destinations
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Things to Do in Tbilisi

• Cultural Monuments
• Arts & Culture
• Family Attractions
• City Breaks
• Neighbourhoods

When planning a trip to Tbilisi, it’s quite possible to be overwhelmed by the number of appealing options, but not to worry! In this blog, help you focus on the most popular destinations and the most unmissable things to do in this endearing city.

What is Tbilisi famous for?

The story of Tbilisi is one of determination and rebirth. Indeed, this is vividly evidenced by observing the city's varied architectural styles and historical sites. Narrow, cobbled streets are lined with wooden houses, from which balconies of a spectrum of colors emerge; grand centuries-old churches, along with many other fascinating landmarks, abound.

One of its most noteworthy historic landmarks is the Narikala Fortress. This ancient structure towers above the city, and stands as a testament to centuries of proud defense, as its imposing walls have long repelled enemies who dare to approach. From this vantage point, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi's expansive urban landscape, and even the Caucasus Mountains on clear days.

Cultural Exploration

The Georgian National Museum is strongly recommended to anyone interested in Georgian culture. In this striking building, you’ll admire different artifacts telling you all about the archaeological, historical, and cultural development of the country as a whole. Similarly, the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography , in the hills near Turtle Lake, offers visitors the chance to experience houses and craftworks from Georgia’s diverse regions, giving you a memorable taste of the rich cultural fabric of the country.

Spiritual Sites 

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world.  Funded by donations from the Georgian people, its construction began in 1996 and was completed by 2004. Its enormity is such that one can see it from miles and miles around, reflecting Christianity’s enduring importance to Georgia and Georgians.

Likewise, the Virgin Mary Assumption Church of Metekhi, perched on the banks of the Mtkvari River, is a serene space for reflection amidst the bustle of the city center.

Natural and Recreational Spaces

Among the many green attractions of Tbilisi, the National Botanical Garden and Mtatsminda Park stand out, offering peaceful escapes from urban life. The botanical garden, a bountiful monument to Georgia's natural diversity, has a seemingly endless variety of flora, through which to amble leisurely. On the other hand, Mtatsminda Park has fun amusements for all ages, and perhaps the greatest views of the whole city. 

Thermal Baths

A visit to the storied sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district is always utterly enriching for the body, mind, and soul. Legend has it that the thermal springs filling these baths date back to the city's foundation and possess medicinal and healing properties.

Iconic Structures

The Bridge of Peace adjacent to the old Metekhi Bridge offers a striking contrast of Tbilisi's new and old, while the iconic statue of the Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda) stands tall above the Sololaki district, reminding visitors of Georgia’s proud tradition of preservation and hospitality.

Does Tbilisi have a nightlife?

After sunset, Tbilisi really comes alive with revelers flocking to its numerous nightclubs and live music venues. And there’s something for everyone’s taste, from the haunting sounds of traditional Georgian polyphonic singing to laid-back jazz clubs to the thriving underground electronic music scene , Tbilisi has all musical interests covered. Indeed, the city’s vibrant and youthful energy reverberates against the background of its ancient architecture.

Culinary Journey 

No visit to Tbilisi would be complete without devouring generous helpings of the many glories of Georgia’s world-renowned cuisine. Throughout the city, restaurants and cafes of all sizes serve mouthwatering local specialties like khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (meat dumplings), among a multitude of other treats for the tastebuds.

How long should I stay in Tbilisi?

Of course, with Georgians well known for their hospitality, you can stay as long as you like. However, appreciating visitors won’t have endless free time for their vacation, so we’ve put together some notes for short, medium, and long stays.

Short Stay (2-3 Days)

Old Tbilisi, Narikala Fortress, the Bridge of Peace, a selection of museums like the Georgian National Museum, the sulfur baths, and a handful of filling and delicious Georgian lunches and dinners.

Moderate Stay (4-5 Days)

Allows for a deeper dive into Tbilisi's culture and a wider exploration of attractions in and around the city.

Leisurely spend time in the city’s artsy neighborhoods, visit plenty of museums and galleries and take a short but invigorating day trip to Georgia’s ancient capital of Mtskheta.

Long Stay (6+ Days)

Perfect for travelers wanting to thoroughly explore the nooks and crannies of Tbilisi and its surroundings, or even to use the city as a base for exploring the rest of Georgia and its amazingly diverse landscapes.

Day trips or overnight stays in nearby regions like Kakheti (for wine tasting), Kazbegi (for mountain scenery), or even Gori (for historical sites) are all easily achievable and highly rewarding. Having more time of course allows you to experience Georgia's diverse landscapes and cultural offerings to the full.

To sum up, Tbilisi has a rich history and cultural heritage, and in every corner of this alluring city, you will find something new and interesting. Whether seeking to learn about Georgian history, experience unique cultural traditions, or simply relax and enjoy a lively atmosphere, Tbilisi promises something very special indeed. Indeed, after coming once, visitors tend to return frequently, with every visit revealing new layers of the city’s identity, and with no two trips ever the same or even similar.

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The 11 best things to do in Tbilisi

Ancient buildings, natural wine and an innovative club culture – here’s how to make the most out of Georgia’s capital

Photograph: Shutterstock

The capital of Georgia –  a small country straddling the borders of  Europe and Asia  – Tbilisi is a fascinating hodgepodge of cultures sitting right at the heart of the historic Silk Road trading route. It’s   a place where ancient history sits side-by-side with slick new developments, sometimes on the same street. U ltra-modern glass-covered highrises neighbour medieval churches almost as old as the city itself, while blocky Soviet-era industrial buildings, with their strict utilitarian design, are being repurposed all over the place. A factory is now home to stylish cafes and shops; a print house is now a modern hotel and restaurant; a deserted swimming pool under a stadium is now a nightclub that regularly gathers over 1,200 people.

Tbilisi is a place to indulge, whether that’s in history, architecture, nightlife, food, wine – or everything all at once, it’s up to you. Aside from the wine. That’s a must.

Tamar Lortkipanidze is a travel writer and Tbilisi native. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines   and check out our latest   travel guides   written by local experts.  

RECOMMENDED: 🌇 Europe’s best city breaks ⛱️ The best alternative Mediterranean beach breaks

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

1.  Take a cable car to the Mother of Georgia

Hop on a cable car from Rike Park and take in the skyline as you soar to  Sololaki  Hill, which overlooks Tbilisi. Here you’ll find the gargantuan Mother of Georgia ( Kartlis Deda ), a 20-metre-tall aluminium sculpture of a woman in national dress. She holds a sword in one hand, to fight enemies, and a cup of wine in the other, to welcome guests. It’s considered the symbol of the city. Up here you’ll also find Nariakala, a massive fourth-century fortress built by Vakhtang I Gorgasali, the Iberian King who founded Tbilisi. Catch a ride back down on the cable car, or if you’re feeling energetic, follow a narrow hiking path down past Leghvtakhevi Waterfall.

2.  Explore Tbilisi’s Old Town on foot

Tbilisi’s Old Town is an immensely interesting and easily walkable area. Start with checking out the gorgeous architecture in Sololaki, an area crowned one of Time Out’s coolest neighbourhoods in 2021.  Cut through the newly renovated Gudiashvili Square and go down to Shavteli Street to visit the Gabriadze Theatre, with its famous crooked clock tower, and Anchiskhati Basilica (the oldest church in Tbilisi, built in VI century AD). Head down to the Mtkvari River, making sure to check out the undulating Bridge of Peace, and stroll along the bank toward Metekhi Cathedral and Queen Darejan’s Palace. For a well-organised and informative tour, search for a local company organising walking tours. Do keep in mind that if a tour is advertised as free, it’s tip-based and you should have some cash on hand.

3.  Visit the Georgian National Museum

A must-see for first-time visitors (or returning visitors who skipped it), the Georgian National Museum is home to some of the country’s most important historic artefacts. From a display of prehistoric skulls, including the Dmanisi hominins –  the most complete hominid skull ever found –  to an exhibition that takes a deep dive into the Soviet occupation, this is the place to develop an understanding of Georgia’s long history.

4.  Take a closer look at Niko Pirosmani’s paintings at the National Gallery

Niko Pirosmani is arguably Georgia’s most famous painter. Even if you’re not into art, visiting his exhibition on the second floor of the National Gallery is a must. The main characters of Pirosmani’s primitivist art are everyday people, and his paintings can be a better window into the past than any history book. The permanent exhibition area also displays works of other seminal artists like Lado Gudashvili, David Kakabadze and Iakob Nikoladze. And keep an eye on the schedule at The National Gallery for their exciting roster of temporary exhibitions.

5.  Follow the tiled stairs to the Tbilisi Art Academy

Hidden away near the Zara store on Rustaveli Avenue, you’ll find a set of stairs decorated with 2000 painted tiles. They lead up to the beautiful Tbilisi Art Academy, an 1850s building that blends European Neo-Baroque and traditional Persian architecture. Its Mirror Halls, with carved walls and ceilings decorated with glinting mirror shards and Qajar masters’ paintings, is one of  Tbilisi’s most overlooked gems. One word of advice – the academy building is closed to visitors during the exam and holiday seasons, so do check it's open before visiting.

6.  Drink a glass (or five) of Georgian wine

Georgia is regarded as the cradle of wine, boasting an 8000-year history of winemaking – so even if you’re only in Tbilisi for a day, this one is a must. While most Georgian restaurants will have wine on the menu, it’s the small wine-focused restaurants and bars with selections of natural wines you should pay attention to. Luckily, there are plenty of them in the city centre. Try Flags Wine Bar on Akhvlediani, a no-frills venue that offers an affordable selection of wines from small independent wineries. If you’re looking for some food to soak up the wine, Ghvinis Kurdebi in the old Wine Factory offers traditional Georgian dishes that can be paired with delicious local wines.

7.  Look around the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, which the Georgians call simply Sameba (Trinity), is the main spiritual centre of the Georgian Orthodox Church and one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Architect Archil Mindiashvili’s design blends traditional Georgian and more lavish Byzantine styles, making it much more opulent than typical Georgian churches. The massive complex, built between 1995 and 2004, is perched on top of Elia Hill, only adding to the grandeur. Its interior, decorated with frescoes and mosaics, is just as impressive.

8.  Check out the ‘Georgian Stonehenge’

Located away from the most popular tourist attractions near the Tbilisi Sea, it’s worth going out of your way to see the Chronicle of Georgia. The sculptor and architect Zurab Tsereteli started working on the massive 16-pillar structure in 1985, but was never able to finish it due to political tensions and the subsequent fall of the Soviet Union. Each of the monument’s massive 35-meter-tall pillars depicts important events in Georgian history, starting from St Nino converting King Mirian III to Christianity. Due to the height and scale of the structure, it’s sometimes cheekily referred to as the ‘Georgian Stonehenge’. 

9.  Get scrubbed down at a sulfur bath

Sulfur baths are one of Tbilisi’s biggest draws. In fact, according to legend, they’re the entire reason the city was built in the first place. Most of the baths are located in a neighbourhood aptly named Abanotubuani (‘Abano’ means ‘bathhouse’ in Georgian) and are easily recognisable with their brick and tiled domes popping out of the ground. Nowadays many bathhouses have been refurbished to cater to tourists. Usually, you’ll rent a private room to steam on your own or with friends. If you do decide to visit and soak, don’t leave without a kisa scrub .

10.  Ride the funicular railway to Mtatsminda Park

At 770 metres above sea level, Mtatsminda Park is the highest point in Tbilisi. Covering more than 100 hectares, the area houses a theme park, numerous cafes and bars, and the Tbilisi TV Tower. Locals, however, come here for three things: the breathtaking views of the city, a ride on the 65-metre-tall Ferris wheel, and the many festivals hosted annually at the park – including wine, cheese, honey and ice cream fairs. For the full experience, catch a ride on the funicular cable railway from Chonqadze Street and enjoy the views on the way up.

11.  Learn about Georgian wine in the Karvasla Event Hall

Karvasla Event Hall (not to be confused with the shopping centre) is an old caravanserai (a type of roadside inn) near Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi Old Town. The top floor serves as an exhibition hall for modern and experimental art, while the ground floor houses the Tbilisi History Museum’s collection of archival photos, historic clothes, furniture, carriages and dioramas of heritage buildings. But the best thing to see here is the Wine Museum in the underground chambers. It’s a capsule of Georgia’s 8000 years of winemaking, displaying various wine-related ephemera, including Qvevri (a large egg-shaped earthenware vessel unique to Georgian winemaking) and  Satsnakheli (a wine press made from either wood or stone).

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24 Things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia + Tbilisi Travel Guide

Updated July 2023, 24 Things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia + Tbilisi Travel Guide was originally published in March 2021

My first arrival to Tbilisi was near-disastrous, but I’d come to quite like the city over the next few days even though I was battling pouring rain, winds, and a canceled press trip that brought me there in the first place.

Return visits have only made my fondness for Tbilisi grow (also waistline, you know, because irresistible Georgian food and bottle after bottle of inexpensive yet exquisite Georgian wine).

So without rambling too much going on about all the things I love about Tbilisi, I’ve created a Tbilisi Travel Guide with a 3 day itinerary covering the 24 best things to do in Tbilisi, as well as recommendations for the best places to stay in Tbilisi, best Tbilisi restaurants (and what to order at them!), as well as tips for getting around the city. 

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Georgia?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

Get Around Tbilisi: A Guide to the Tbilisi Metro

A 3 Day Tbilisi Itinerary & the 24 Best Things to do in Tbilisi

Tbilisi itinerary: day 1, 1. look for georgian souvenirs in the underground meidan bazaar.

Meidan Bazaar  sits right in the middle of Tbilisi’s Old Town, having served as a major crossroads along the Silk Road as goods passed from the Levant, Arabia, East Asia, Europe, and just about everywhere in between. And like many of Tbilisi’s delights, sits completely underground. 

Dating back to the 4th century, Meidan Bazaar has a long-standing history and is one of the best places to pick up Georgian souvenirs to take home, though it can feel a bit touristy. 

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (10-minute walk | 670 meters)

2. Head to the Abanotubani District of the Old Town and Treat Yourself to a Sulfur Bath

Tbilisi was chosen as the location of Georgia’s new capital in the 5th century, owing largely to the wealth of natural hot springs that run underground in the  Abanotubani District . 

Several domes dot the narrow valley that Abanotubani sits in, home to the famed bathhouses. Of course, the  Orbeliani Bathhouse  is the most famous, owing to its tiled mosque-like facade. 

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (15-minute walk | 1.6 km) Getting to Abantubani from Meidan Bazaar: 4-minute walk | 320 meters

3. Find the Hidden Lagvtakhevi Waterfall

If you keep walking beyond the famous facade of the mosque-like Orbeliani Baths in the Abanotubani District, you’ll continue along a waterway that eventually dead-ends at 22-meter tall  Lagvtakhevi Waterfall .

A series of bridges and walkways lead up to a viewpoint of the falls, making it an easy stroll for those already meandering around the Old Town. 

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (18-minute walk | 1.3 km) Getting to Lagvtakhevi Waterfall from Abanotubani: 5-minute walk | 310 meters

4. Learn About Georgia’s 8,000 + Year Winemaking History at the Tbilisi Wine Museum

With a winemaking history that stretches back over 8,000 years, the  Tbilisi Wine Museum  is a must on your Tbilisi itinerary.

Our guide Nino navigated us through the underground labyrinth where she thoroughly explained Georgia’s long-standing winemaking traditions such as the use of the Qvevri-  the clay Georgian winemaking vessel.

Wine is undoubtedly a large part of the nation’s history so Nino’s guided tour with us was interspersed with historical facts and developments within Tbilisi and the country, including the series of events and attacks that led to so much of Tbilisi being built underground and about its plethora of underground mineral streams used for the production of wines.

The Tbilisi Wine Museum is conveniently located beneath the Tbilisi History Museum inside the  Karvasla building .

Cost:  15 GEL (includes guided tour) Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (13-minute walk | 920 meters) or Liberty Square (14-minute walk | 1.1 km) Getting to Tbilisi Wine Museum from Lagvtakhevi Waterfall : 11-minute walk | 700 meters

5. Comprehend the City’s Longstanding History at the Tbilisi History Museum

Located inside the  Karvasla – a building dating back to the 17th century that served as a caravanserai along the ancient Silk Road, the  Tbilisi History Museum  houses over 50,000 artifacts that date clear back to the Bronze Age.

Cost:  5 GEL Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (13-minute walk | 920 meters) or Liberty Square (14-minute walk | 1.1 km)

6. Shop at Gallery 27 and Admire the Stained Glass Work at the Kaleidoscope House

Betlemi Street  is easily one of the most gorgeous areas of Tbilisi with its colorful homes and art splattered at every turn, but the most famous site on the street has got to be the  Kaleidoscope House . 

The best time to visit is on a sunny day in the afternoon (we had clouds when we visited, unfortunately) to catch the rainbow reflection of the stained glass on the floor and walls. 

But the main reason to trek up the stairs of the Kaleidoscope House is to visit the  Gallery 27 shop  where you can pick up unique and handmade gifts and souvenirs. 

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (13-minute walk | 1 km) or Avlabari (15-minute walk | 1.1 km) Getting to the Kaleidoscope House from Tbilisi History Museum/Wine Museum: 3-minute walk | 270 meters

7. Explore Betlemi Street & Historic Quarter

Tbilisi’s Old Town is already pretty artsy, but my favorite part had to be Betlemi Street and its historic quarter owing to its interesting sites and colorfully decorated buildings and art installations.

The previously mentioned  Kaleidoscope House  sits in the Betlemi Historic Quarter in addition to the  Check Point Hotel , the colorfully painted and tiled  Cafe Frida’s , the Zoroastrian fire temple of  Ateshgah , and the  Upper Betlemi Church .

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (13-minute walk | 1 km) or Avlabari (15-minute walk 1.1 km)

8. Take in the Best Tbilisi Views from Tabor Monastery of the Transformation 

For the best views of Narikala Fortress and Old Tbilisi, the walk up to the  Tabor Monastery of Transformation  is well worth the effort. Of course, sunset and sunrise are the best time to be there.

The Tabor Monastery of Transformation itself dates back only to 2012 after taking 10 years to complete.

To get to the Tabor Monastery on foot, you’ll need to follow Baazovi Street from the Abantubani District to its end and then follow a series of stairs and paths (sometimes you will feel as if you’re walking through someone’s backyard) to eventually arrive on a small outcrop from which the monastery is only a short walk up from.

For those not looking to go on an adventure, there is a road that goes all the way to the monastery, so going by taxi is a possibility.

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (31-minute walk | 1.8 km) Getting to Tabor Monastery from Betlemi Quarter: 26-minute walk | 1.5 km

Make a cool day trip from Tbilisi: Visit the Rkoni Monastery Complex

Tbilisi Itinerary: Day 2

9. marvel at the grandeur of the holy trinity cathedral sameba.

At 87 meters in height, the  Holy Trinity Cathedral  (also called the Sameba Cathedral) in Tbilisi is the tallest building in all of Georgia? and the largest orthodox church in the country.

The cathedral opened to the public in 2004 and is surrounded by a manicured garden, fountains, and more. 

Make sure to have a headscarf handy (ladies) and wear either long trousers or a full-length skirt. 

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (9-minute walk | 670 meters)

10. Watch the Show on the Hour at the Clock Tower

The   Leaning Clock Tower of Tbilisi  is one of the city’s most iconic sites, despite not even being that old compared to other highlights.

The famous clock tower was constructed in 2011 by renowned puppeteer Rezo Gabriadze, who also built the attached  Puppet Theatre  in Tbilisi’s Old Town. 

On the hour the window at the top of the clock tower opens and an angel comes out onto the balcony and bangs a bell.

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (12-minute walk | 910 meters) Getting to the Clock Tower from Sameba: Take the metro from Avlabari to Liberty Square then walk 12-minutes | 910 meters

11. See the Remaining Old Tbilisi Walls

Historically speaking, Tbilisi was a walled city, and not until it was dragged into the Russian Empire in the late 18th century did the city of Tbilisi begin to expand outside these old stone walls. 

The best place to see the  Old Walls of Tbilisi  is along Pushkin Street up to Baratashvili Street.

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (8-minute walk | 640 meters) Getting to the Old Walls from the Clock Tower: 5-minute walk | 410 meters

12. Shop at Dry Bridge Flea Market

On either side of the  Chughureti Bridge , you’ll find merchants participating in the daily  Dry Bridge Flea Market  selling all kinds of wares from old vinyl records, jewelry, cutlery, books, cameras, to Soviet-era pins, and even the odd Lenin or Stalin bust. 

Nearest metro station:   Liberty Square (16-minute walk | 1.2 km) Getting to the Dry Bridge Market from the Old Walls: 11-minute walk | 790 meters

13. Stroll Around Rike Park & Tbilisi Bridge of Peace

Linking  Rike Park  to Old Tbilisi across the river, the  Tbilisi Bridge of Peace  is one of the many funky-modern structures you’ll quickly notice when you arrive. 

The Bridge of Peace is a pedestrian bridge that was opened in 2010 and designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi. Michele De Lucchi also designed the Ministry of Internal Affairs building as well as the residential Administration of Georgia building. 

Nearest metro station:   Avlabari (10-minute walk | 590 meters) Getting to the Tbilisi Peace Bridge from Dry Bridge Market: 17-minute walk | 1.3 km

14. Gaze from the Balcony of Queen Darejan’s Palace

Uphill from Rike Park sits the palace that served as  Queen Darejan’s  summer home. The main attraction is the turquoise balcony overhanging a cliff. 

Nearest metro station:   Avlabari (5-minute walk | 380 meters) Getting to the Queen Darejan’s Palace from Rike Park: 9-minute walk | 550 meters

15. Check Out the Converted Spaces at Fabrika Tbilisi 

Once an old Soviet sewing factory,  Fabrika  was converted into a hip multi-functional space. Inside you’ll find all types of cool art studios, a  hostel , bars, cafes, co-working spaces, and even a courtyard to hang out in. 

Nearest metro station:  Marjanishvili (6-minute walk | 660 meters) Getting to the Fabrika from Queen Darejan’s Palace : Take the metro from Avlabari Station to Marjanishvili Station and walk 6 minutes | 660 meters

16. Peek Your Head into the Abandoned Mtatsminda Cable Car Station

The  Mtatsminda Ropeway  stopped abruptly on June 1, 1990, when the cable broke, killing 19 and injuring 40 more. Since that fateful day, the cable car, as well as its stations, have been left to decay for the last 30 years.

The  Lower Mtatsminda Station  is located just off Rustaveli Avenue, just walk through one of the arches of the Georgian National Academy of Sciences building.

You can’t get inside the building (unless the door happens to be unlocked and you don’t get run off by construction workers but you can peek your head through the broken windows to gaze up at the spiraling stairs and graffiti inside. 

As of 2021, the  Lower Mtatsminda Station is undergoing construction  to restore the cable car line. When I was back again in 2023, it was still under construction.

Nearest metro station:  Rustaveli (3-minute walk | 210 meters) Getting to Lower Mtatsminda Station from Fabrika : Take the metro from Marjanishvili Station to Rustaveli Station and walk 3 minutes | 210 meters

17. Check Out Narikala Fortress & St. Nicholas Church

Narikala Fortress  is high up on a steep hill next to the Abanotubani sulfur bath district, offering epic 360º views of Tbilisi.

Dating back to the 4th century originally, Narikala suffered severe damages over the years, so the walls today largely were reconstructed in the 16th and 17th centuries. 

St. Nicholas Church  sits in the lower court of Narikala Fortress, having been originally built in the 13th century suffered a devastating fire and was reconstructed in 1996 and 1997.

You can make the walk along a network of trails uphill from either the Abanotubani or Betlemi areas of Old Town to reach Narikala Fortress and St. Nicholas Church or grab a cable car from Rike Park for 1 GEL.

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (21-minute walk | 1.4 km) or Liberty Square (24-minute walk | 1.6 km) Getting to Narikala from Lower Mtatsminda Station: Take the metro from Rustaveli Station to Avlabari Station and walk 21 minutes | 1.4 km

18. Go Clubbing Underground at Bassiani 

Ever wanted to go clubbing in an underground Soviet swimming pool? Here’s your chance.

Bassiani  is located underneath the old  Dinamo Stadium  where DJs from all around the world put on epic shows. The club is known also for its LGBT-friendly space known as Horoom, which has  stirred protests and police-raids as the club helps to push for change in the still conservative society of Georgia . 

No photos are allowed to be taken inside Bassiani and camera phones will have a sticker placed over the lens.

Unfortunately, Bassiani has been shuttered for the time being due to the pandemic but will likely resume operations in the future. Check the  Bassiani website for updates  on its re-opening. 

Nearest metro station:  Station Square II (7-minute walk | 540 meters) Getting to Bassiani from Narikala: Take the metro from Avlabari Station to Station Square II Station and walk 7minutes | 540 meters

Headed toward Gori? Don’t miss the Ancient Cave City of Uplistsikhe

Tbilisi Itinerary: Day 3

19. visit the chronicles of georgia.

Not going to lie, the  Chronicles of Georgia  is the only site on this  best things to do in Tbilisi  article that I have not personally visited on any of my trips to Georgia. It was on my to-do list on my last visit but I just didn’t make it over there- maybe next time. 

As the name insinuates, the 16 pillar monument tells the chronicle of Georgia’s history. It was created by Georgian painter, architect, and sculptor Zurab Tsereteli in 1985, but was never completed.

The Chronicles of Georgia is located on a hill overlooking the Tbilisi Sea on the outskirts of the city.

The cheapest and easiest way to get there is to get on the Tbilisi Metro Red Line and get off at Ghrmaghele Station and then once outside take Bus #60 from the stop nearest the station entrance to the Military School stop. From there, walk the remaining 500 meters to the Chronicles of Georgia. 

Alternatively, order a taxi using the Bolt app to the Chronicles of Georgia and expect it to cost 10-20 GEL (one way).

Nearest metro station:  Ghrmaghele (2.4 km from Chronicles of Georgia)

20. Crawl Through the Wells at Stalin’s Underground Printing Press Museum

A small featureless house sat in the Isani neighborhood of Tbilisi hid a series of tunnels where a young Joseph Stalin (still going by his birth name of Iosif Djugashvili) printed various newspapers, magazines, and pamphlets, calling for the removal of the Tsar. 

Bolshevik Revolutionaries would be led down a 15 meter deep well that led to another dry well via a tunnel and then up a 10 meter staircase to a basement where an old German printing press where for three years propaganda materials were printed in Georgian, Russian, and Armenian.

The printing press was purchased in Ausburg, Germany, dismantled, and then smuggled to Tbilisi by Bolshevik supporters. In 1906 the police found Stalin’s headquarters and removed the printing press, then destroyed the house, filling the well with soil.

During the Soviet era, the house and wells were reconstructed and the printing press returned. 

Now, the  Underground Printing Press and House  serve as a museum, managed by the National Museum. We were guided around by quite the character who made the visit to the museum that much better. 

These days the museum does get some tourists, though it’s become a pilgrimage site for Chinese visitors paying their respects to Stalin.

Note that you’ll need to have a basic understanding of either Russian or Georgian as the museum guides on hand speak them. They do have a printed sheet in English to explain the history of the museum if you do not understand Russian or Georgian but know that the tour is that much more entertaining if you can understand the guide’s commentary. 

Entry to Stalin’s Underground Printing Press Museum is by donation. 10 GEL is recommended. 

Nearest metro station:  300 Aragveli (7-minute walk | 380 meters) Getting to Stalin’s Underground Printing Press from Chronicles of Georgia: Take bus #60 to the Military School and then take the metro from Ghrmaghele Station to 300 Aragveli Station and walk 7 minutes | 380 meters

21. Liberty Square

Liberty Square  (also known as Freedom Square) is located on Rustaveli Avenue and has been the epicenter of many pivotal points in Georgia’s historical revolutions. It was the site of the  1907 Tiflis Bank Robbery , numerous demonstrations rallying for Georgia’s independence from the Soviet Union, and the  Rose Revolution  among others. 

Several important Tbilisi monuments are centered around Liberty Square including a bust of Alexander Pushkin, the Tbilisi City Hall, the Liberty Monument, the former Bank of Georgia, and the old Tbilisi local government office. 

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square  Getting to Liberty Square from Stalin’s Underground Printing Press: Take the metro from 300 Aragveli Station to Liberty Square Station and walk upstairs

22. Discover the Country’s Deep History at the National Museum of Georgia

Take a deep dive into the natural and human history of the nation of Georgia with a history that dates back over 40 million years and presents relics that go back over 1 million years at the  National Museum of Georgia . 

Note that the fascinating Soviet Occupation Hall Museum is housed within the same complex as the National Museum of Georgia.

Cost:  5 GEL or 10 GEL if including the Soviet Occupational Hall Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (7-minute walk | 530 meters) Getting to the National Museum of Georgia and Soviet Occupation Hall from Liberty Square: Walk 7 minutes | 530 meters

23. Understand the Complicated Relations and History During the USSR-era at the Soviet Occupation Hall

Georgia was occupied by the Soviet Union for seven decades spanning from 1918 to 1991. The  Soviet Occupational Hall  helps to explain the history of Georgia under the USSR period, as well as the national liberation and anti-occupation movements that took place during this turbulent 73 years.

The Soviet Occupational Hall is located on the fourth floor of the National Museum of Georgia.

Cost:  10 GEL Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (7-minute walk | 530 meters)

24. Wander Around Mtatsminda Park

Located atop Tbilisi’s highest point-  Mount Mtatsminda , sits a park of the same name. It features a Ferris wheel, rollercoaster, waterslides, and more. From Old Town, you can take a funicular ride to the top. 

Entrance to  Mtatsminda Park  is free, but you will need to pay 6 GEL for a ride up the funicular (+2 GEL to purchase the reloadable card for it and other attractions in the park). 

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (14-minute walk to the funicular | 1.1 km) Getting to Mtatsminda Park from the National Museum of Georgia: Walk 530 meters back to Liberty Square and then make the 14-minute walk | 1.1 km to the funicular and ride it up to the park

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

Budget: envoy hostel  |  namaste hostel  |  apartment rental.

On my most recent visit to Tbilisi my good friend  Dan  rented an  apartment  in between the Garetubani and Kala neighborhoods just off of Baratashvili/Pushkin Street, which was a perfect place to based for exploring Tbilisi.

On a previous visit, I had stayed at the  Envoy Hostel  after a bleary-eyed 3 am arrival for a press trip to the Abkhaz Region that was canceled mere hours before my flight departed. I hopped in a taxi from the airport and asked him to take me anywhere that had a bed and was cheap-ish. I think he could tell I was at end of my rope that day and said he knew somewhere nice and dropped me off at Envoy. 

The hostel was clean, the staff was excellent, and the shared spaces led me (who can be a little quiet and not so social sometimes) to meet several other solo travelers to explore around Georgia with. Envoy is also perfectly situated in the Old Town just below Narikala Fortress between Abanotubani District and the Betlemi Quarter.

Nearest metro station to Envoy Hostel:  Avlabari (15-minute walk | 1 km)

For those looking for a hostel experience but at a cheaper rate, the  Namaste Hostel  came highly recommended. The hostel is conveniently located in the Betlemi Quarter. 

Nearest metro station to Namaste Hostel:  Avlabari (14-minute walk | 980 meters)

Midrange:  Check Point Hotel  |  Fabrika Hostel & Suites

I didn’t stay at the  Check Point Hotel,  but I did visit the property as we had popped into the Cafe Freida for a coffee and fell in love with the place. Its located in the artsy Betlemi Quarter of Old Town and is easy to see why this is a favorite among travelers. 

Nearest metro station to Check Point Hotel:  Avlabari (16-minute walk | 1.1 km) or Liberty Square (15-minute walk | 1.2 km)

Another fan favorite is the  Fabrika Hostel & Suites  located within the old Soviet-era sewing factory converted into a new and hip hostel, co-working spaces, bars, art studios, and artisan shops. 

The Fabrika Hostel & Suites is situated in the Marjanishvili neighborhood. 

Nearest metro station to Fabrika Hostel & Suites:  Marjanishvili (8-minute walk | 660 meters)

Splurge:  Stamba Hotel

If you’re looking to splurge, the  Stamba Hotel  would be my top pick after we popped into the hotel on a chilly afternoon. The interior architecture is nothing short of impressive, showcasing a brutalist framework that highlights the industrial era within this hotel inside a former publishing house- the highlights being the 5-story atrium with jungle plants vining up metal frames and the ultra-cool library-themed Lobby Bar.

Stamba is located on Rustaveli Avenue/Merab Kostava Street in the Vera Historic District.

Nearest metro station to Stamba Hotel:  Rustaveli (3-minute walk | 270 meters)

Best Restaurants in Tbilisi

So I will preface this section by saying: I fully plan to write a post dedicated to the delicious dishes of Georgia (yes, it’s that good) one of these days, but for now, here is a list of some of the best places I ate in Tbilisi. 

I also wanted to throw out there too that I feel you’d be hard-pressed to find truly bad food in Tbilisi, so don’t be scared to pop into a random restaurant you happen to be passing by- that’s how we discovered a number of the places on this list. 

Where and What to Eat

Amra Restaurant

Hands down, Amra is my favorite restaurant in Tbilisi… and that’s after eating my way across the city. Amra was the first Abkhazian restaurant in Tbilisi, which originally existed in the city of Sokhumi in the western region of Abkhazia but was recreated in Tbilisi after the owners were forced to leave during the brutal 1990s war. 

But moving on from the history and back to the food…

My favorite dish is the  spatchcocked chicken in Abkhazian adjika sauce  (it says “Chicken on a spatula in Abkhazian adjika sauce). It’s quite similar to Shkmeruli which is a dish of perfectly fried chicken sat in a bubbling bath of creamy garlic-milk sauce, though this Abkhaz twist on the dish adds the delicious and fiery adjika sauce to the mix (I often dream of this meal). 

Other mouthwatering dishes we had here were the  ghebzhalia , a chunk of sulguni cheese in a bowl of heavy cream and chopped mint leaves; the  Kliari fried sulguni with adjika , sulguni friend in breading and adjika and served with a cream sauce; the  elarji , a mixture of cornmeal and sulguni that is commonly eaten in both the Abkhaz and Samegrelo regions; and the  Sokhumi ice cream , a vanilla ice cream topped with a citrus jam and nuts.

Don’t forget to try some  Abkhazian wine – we went with the red and quite honestly it was one of our favorite wines in all of our travels in Georgia and we’ve had some amazing wines there.

Nearest metro station:  Amra moved as of my latest visit in March 2023! Amra is now in a round building on Lake Lisi. The closest metro station is Delisi. From there, take a Bolt (6-7 minutes) or walk (about 35 minutes). It’s no longer located outside State University Station.

Sabatono was another favorite of ours, serving up some great Georgian classics. 

Some of our favorite dishes at Sabatono were the  lobio , a mashed bean soup that texturally reminded me of refried Mexican beans, spiced with utsho suneli (blue fenugreek), crushed walnuts, onion, garlic, coriander, and cilantro;  badrijani nigvzit , a popular Georgian appetizer of fried eggplant stuffed with a paste of walnut and garlic, topped with pomegranate seeds;  chashushuli,  also called ostri (meaning  spicy  in Russian), is a fiery Georgian beef stew in a tomato-based sauce spiced with onion, garlic, chili, coriander, and parsley; and the  Adjarian khachapuri , the famous eye-shaped boat of bread, with melted sulguni and an egg cracked on top.

Naturally, we had to pair this with a Georgian red, so we opted for the  Kindzmarauli , which was one of my favorite types of red wine in the country.

Nearest metro station:  Rustaveli (5-minute walk | 360 meters)

Hinkali Factory

As the name of the restaurant suggests, khinkali are the main attraction on the menu here at Hinkali Factory, though they do have an extensive menu. In case, you don’t yet know: khinkali are delicious soup dumplings and Georgia’s most popular dish.

First, we kicked off the meal with an appetizer of  Ispanakhis Pkhali  as a pre-khinkali warm-up round. Ispanakhis Pkhali is a pate of spinach, ground walnuts, utsho suneli, cilantro, and coriander topped with pomegranate seeds. 

Next, we ordered heaping plates of their  kalakuri khinkali , dumplings stuffed with beef spiced with cumin, onion, parsley, and cilantro, and the  sulguni khinkali , which are served up with delicious melty cheese inside. 

Tip:  There are rules to eating khinkali! First, you must pick up the little dump by its top knot and carefully bite open one of its bottom corners and slurp all of the soupy broth out of the khinkali or else you’ll end up doused in khinkali juice. Once you’ve sucked out its juices you can eat the khinkali, though do not eat the top knot- that’s to be proudly displayed on your plate to showcase how many of these delicious dumplings you can hog down. 

Of course, we paired this all with a perfect bottle of  Saperavi .

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (12-minute walk | 870 meters)

In the Shadow of Metekhi

Initially, we popped into In the Shadow of Metekhi after having left Stalin’s Underground Printing Press in search of coffee and a toilet (we had to pee, ok), but we ended up sticking around for lunch. But for starters- the main draw to the restaurant is its outdoor balcony right on the Mtkvari River with perfect views of Old Tbilisi.

Since it was more like a brunch for us since we didn’t have breakfast (but lots of coffee that morning, hence the peeing), we decided to first order the  Ajarian chirbuli  which seemed reminiscent of shakshuka- only better. Chirbuli hails from the Adjara region of Georgia and is a sauce-like dish of tomato, tkemali (Georgian sour plum sauce), onion, ground walnuts, coriander, garlic, and herbs with eggs poached in the saucy concoction. 

We also decided to try out the  Mkhlovana khachapuri , which is a round-shaped variation of khachapuri stuffed with cheese, beetroot leaves, and spinach. It’s also called Pkhlovana khachapuri and hails from the Mtiuleti and Khevi regions. A similar variation that originates in South Ossetia called chakhragina khachapuri exists with just cheese and beetroot leaves.

Nearest metro station:  300 Aragveli (9-minute walk | 730 meters)

Kafe Leila is a vegetarian restaurant offering up an array of traditional and contemporary dishes with a cool interior that in a way reminded me of being back in the historic houses in  Shiraz ,  Iran . 

We ordered the  green salad with mushrooms , figuring that eating a bowl of leafy greens wouldn’t kill us (and we probably needed it); the  Imeretian lobio with mchadi , the previously mentioned bean soup prepared Imeretian style with slightly different sices and a side of mchadi, a Georgian cornbread; and the  adjapsandali , a traditionally vegetarian dish of eggplant and zucchini stew in a tomato-basil sauce reminiscent of ratatouille.

And since we rolled into Kafe Leila for lunch we paired it with a bottle of  Tsinandali , a lovely white wine from the Kakheti region. 

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (13-minute walk | 930 meters)

Chashnagiri

Chashnagri probably wins the prize for the best cheap food in Tbilisi on this list- it’s also a chain, so you can find several locations around the city.

We ordered a  khachapuri  (sorry I can’t remember the name of it) but it was a long loaf of bread stuffed with sulguni that was baked on a spit over a flame; some  kalakuri khinkali , same meat and herb ones we had at Hinkhali Factory; and the bubbling cast iron of  shkmeruli , a dish hailing from the village of Shkmeruli in the Racha region of a perfectly roasted or fried chicken bathed in thick garlic-cream sauce. 

We paired dinner here with a bottle of  Kvanchkara – a beautiful red wine which, fun fact, was also Stalin’s favorite wine.

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (9-minute walk | 710 meters)

Restaurant Hide

Right next to the Meidan Bazaar, Restaurant Hide has one thing in common with the ancient marketplace- it’s also underground. Follow a staircase down to find yourself in a hip subterranean bar and restaurant. 

We ordered  pork ribs in adjika , some delectable gooey  sulguni stuffed mushrooms , and washed it all down with a bottle of  Kindzmarauli .

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (13-minute walk | 940 meters)

The Cone Culture

If you like ice cream, then a visit to the Cone Culture is in order. The little walk-up shop regularly experiments with new flavors, but their signature is the unique vanilla adjika ice cream that is, as you guessed- spiced with salty, spicy, savory adjika. Other offbeat and unique flavors include persimmon, feijoa, dogwood, blue cheese, whiskey, and many others in addition to more conventional flavors.

Nearest metro station:  Liberty Square (10-minute walk | 730 meters)

Kvarts Coffee

Kvarts Coffee is a one-of-a-kind, blending art and coffee. The artists on hand will draw your portrait on your coffee cup! And the coffee is excellent too (especially the lavender raf). 

You can check out  Kvarts Coffee on Instagram , where you can also DM them a photo of you or friends/family and get the portrait drawn on a wine bottle to pick up. How neat is that?

Nearest metro station:  Rustaveli (9-minute walk | 670 meters)

Cafe Frida is inside the  Check Point Hotel , which is perfectly decorated and offers up an array of light snacks, coffee, homemade lemonades, beer, and wines. They also have a great view of Old Tbilisi’s Betlemi Quarter from their upper terrace.  Check out Cafe Frida’s menu here .

Nearest metro station:  Avlabari (16-minute walk | 1.1 km) or Liberty Square (15-minute walk | 1.2 km)

Getting Around Tbilisi

Getting around Tbilisi is a cinch with a network of metro stations, buses, cable cars, and the Bolt taxi app. Of course, since I love Soviet-era metros thanks to their grandiose stations in cities like  Tashkent  and  Almaty , it’s my preferred way to get around the city. 

To use the  Tbilisi Metro , buses, and Tbilisi cable car you’ll need to purchase a rechargeable Metromoney card in a metro station 2 GEL and then top up the card at either a window or from one of the orange machines you’ll see in the station. 

A single ride on the metro or bus will cost 50 tetri (0.5 GEL). A one-way ride on the Tbilisi cable car is 2.5 GEL or 5 GEL return. 

Finally, for those taking longer rides or to places not covered so well by the public transport system, the  Bolt app  will come in handy. Bolt essentially functions in the same way as Uber or Yandex where you can input pick up/drop off locations and get cost estimates for the trip. 

Check out the Tbilisi Metro Stations

Have Any Questions About This Tbilisi Travel Guide?

Ask in the comments section below

Need Travel Insurance for Georgia?

Start shopping plans over at  battleface , my go-to travel insurance choice, or over at  World Nomads .

More Posts From Georgia:

Tbilisi’s Bunkers: A Secret Soviet Underworld

Visiting Uplistsikhe Cave Town, Georgia 

Crossing the Georgia-Armenia Border by Marshrutka

Tbilisi Metro: Georgia Underground

Exploring the Best Wine Regions of Georgia

How to Get to Pankisi Valley from Telavi, Georgia 

Visiting the Rkoni Monastery & Queen Tamar Bridge, Georgia

Pankisi Valley Travel Guide

Hiking to Abudelauri Lakes in Georgia

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A Full and Detailed Tbilisi Travel Guide & Tbilisi City Guide!

Categories Europe , Georgia

Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia is a fantastic city to visit. In fact, Georgia itself is a brilliant Country to visit. It’s becoming more and more popular as one of the best countries to visit for a holiday in Europe as well as a backpacking trip around Europe!

I loved my time in Tbilisi, and after spending 5 days in Tbilisi with my Dad I got a really good feel for the City, so here is my full and detailed Tbilisi travel guide and Tbilisi City Guide on things to see and do in Tbilisi, things to eat, places to eat, where to stay and a few important Tbilisi travel tips to help you have the best time!

Tbilisi Travel Guide

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Best Time to visit Tbilisi Georgia.

Georgia is one of those countries that has real seasons so the best time to visit Georgia depends on what weather you like!

I visited Tbilisi in May and it was the perfect temperature, I could tell Summer was coming but Spring was still in the air with comfortable temperatures of around 20°. Summer will bring very hot temperatures and December and January will bring freezing temperatures! I think mid-Spring and mid-Autumn are the best times to plan a visit to Tbilisi.

How long to stay in Tbilisi Georgia.

I spent 5 days in Tbilisi however we were purposely exploring slowly and did a lot of chilling too. I would say 2 or 3 days in Tbilisi is a good amount of time to see the city if you’re on time constraints, otherwise, you can easily pass 5 days there if you have the time. There’s a lot to see in Tbilisi actually!

Where to stay in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Tbilisi is a big city, or at least when looking at a map of Tbilisi it appears to be. It’s by no means a big city like London or Paris but when you look at the attractions to visit it does appear quite spread out.

Hostels in Tbilisi

I kicked off my stay in Tbilisi at Fabrika Hostel which is on the East side of the city. This is one of the best hostels I have stayed in and has to be the best hostel in Tbilisi, I even wrote a blog post all about it here .

In short, it’s a converted soviet sewing factory, it’s been decorated brilliantly with an industrial, shabby, chic design. On first appearance, it does seem slightly out of the centre but it’s really not and it’s nice to walk through some ‘local’ streets to get back to the hostel from the river and the main tourist areas.

Airbnb in Tbilisi

It’s perfect for 2-4 people, feels really local… because, well, it is! It’s in a good location (although slightly up on the hill so expect hill walks to get back), it was a really good price for the whole apartment and Nino herself was lovely!

There are also lots of hotels in Tbilisi for all budgets so be sure to have a look on  Booking.com here !

Things to do in Tbilisi

Now for the fun bit! There are plenty of things to see and do in Tbilisi and actually one of the best things about the city is that you can see stuff up on the hill or from afar and think ‘’Oh what’s that, I need to see it!’ and you just end up walking over to it or come across stuff when walking around Tbilisi but here are just a few ideas to get you started.

I really recommend exploring Tbilisi by yourself and at your own pace however, a city tour to get a real understanding of Tbilisi’s history would be a good idea.

 If you want to see Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia really well, I would recommend checking out one of these tours , you could do a city tour, a bike tour, a wine tour, a mountain tour!

See both sides of the river

I stayed on both sides of the river which meant we got to explore both sides so whichever side you stay on, make sure you venture over the river to the other side of the City to explore.

Narikala Fortress & the Cable Car up

The best view of Tbilisi is from the Narikala Fortress! To get to Narikala Fortress take a cable car from Rike Park which is close to the Bridge of Peace. It cost us 95p for a return journey for 2 people so it’s pretty cheap!

You pass over the river and then go right over the top of one of the old neighbourhoods which gives a great view into how all of the houses are perched on the hill. Once you are at the top and have taken in the view you can walk along some steps to the Fortress. You can climb some walls of the Fortress but it looked a bit dodgy to us so we just took in the view.

Mother of Georgia Statue

From Fortress hill you can go right to the base of the Mother of Georgia statute.

This lady is perched high and looks over the entire city with a great view of Tbilisi. It’s said she has a sword in one hand for the enemy and a glass of wine in the other for friends and that she holds the wine higher than the sword because she would prefer friends to arrive, and this pretty much sums up Georgia’s history. They would prefer to be friends but are ready to fight if needs be.

Botanical Gardens

Whilst I didn’t get to the Tbilisi Botanical gardens, they are up by the Fortress and look really nice so if you want a rest from city life then have a walk around them for a bit.

Thermal Baths in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has Thermal Baths and is very famous for them. Tbilisi is built on hot springs a bit like Budapest. The world Tbili in Georgian actually means warm!

There’s a bath district in the city which is called Abanotubani and it’s located underneath the Fortress hill. I went to Gulo’s Thermal Spa which I would recommend as one of the best thermal spa’s in Tbilisi because its a great price and place.  I wrote a full post about  Gulo’s Thermal Bath here with prices and how to book!

Mount Mtatsminda

Right upon a very big hill is a huge pylon and it can be seen all around the city, especially at night when it lights up. From some angles in the city, you can also see a Ferris wheel which looks very scary as it looks like it’s perching on the edge of the hill!

This hill or mountain I guess you could say is Mount Mtatsminda and it actually has a whole theme park on top of it! I wouldn’t necessarily recommend going up there for the theme park as it’s not the best Tbilisi attraction unless you have children but I would say go to take in the incredible view of Tbilisi City! We went at golden hour on a sunny day and it was beautiful!

To get Mount Mtatsminda there is a funicular from Vilnius Square station. It is a walk uphill to get to the station from elsewhere in the city but there’s also lots of taxi’s if you do not want to walk. The funicular cost about £3.85 for 2 people and once up the top, it’s free to walk around and breathe in that fresh, fresh air!

Tbilisi Clock Tower

This is an interesting clock tower. I’m going to be honest and say I have no idea what it resembles or means but it’s worth passing by, it’s also on the edge of Old Tbilisi and has some nice streets around it.

Tbilisi Free Walking Tour

I always like to take a free walking tour in cities as I think it’s a great way to get my bearings, especially if I do it on the first day. It’s also a good way to get a locals perspective of the city and learn some history and facts. I did the tour with Tbilisi Free Walking Tour and it was very good!

We didn’t cover as much ground as I would have liked but we learned some interesting stuff, heard some old legends and stories about the city and even got to try out some Georgian wine and hear how they make it which is something Georgia is actually known for!

I really wish I had done a better and more in detail tour whilst I was there to learn more about the city and culture, one of these would have been great!

Sameba Cathedral / Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

Tbilisi is full of churches! You’ll pass so many as walk around Tbilisi but if you visit just one I would recommend seeing Sameba Church, it’s up on the hill on the East side of the city and is huge, in fact I believe it’s the biggest church in the Caucasus region and one of the largest religious buildings in the world!

I actually didn’t get to it which is my only Tbilisi regret so make sure you go so you don’t regret it!

Bridge of Peace

To help you cross the river be sure to use the Bridge of Peace. It’s a very new and architecturally interesting bridge. Fun fact, it’s been nicknamed Always Ultra because errmm it kind of looks like a sanitary pad..!

Dry Bridge Flea Market

This bridge and the grassy area beside Dry Bridge is home to a flea market open every day and when I tell you they sell everything, I mean everything!!

There’s a huge amount of useless stuff.. empty bottles and Marriott hotel slippers for example, they also have things from gas masks and war memorabilia to records, dvd’s, jewellery, glasses and soo much more! It’s a sight to be seen that’s for sure so definitely check it out.

Georgian National Museum

Tbilisi has a few museums but what Dad and I were really interested in was the soviet era and the Georgian National Museum has a floor dedicated to this era inside it. To be honest, it wasn’t that detailed and didn’t provide a huge amount of information but it was worth going and I would recommend it if you want to learn a bit more, just don’t expect too much!

Take in the Architecture

As you walk around, remember to keep looking up, take different streets than you have before because this city changes so much down each street. Sometimes you’ll see beautiful well-preserved buildings, sometimes you see crumbling buildings, some due to lack of money and care, others due to recent earthquake damage and sometimes you see modern silver buildings that are super new and innovative!

Unique Things to do in Tbilisi

Chronicles of georgia monument.

The Chronicles of Georgia Monument is a huge monument perched upon a hill just outside of Tbilisi that not many people know about or visit! It’s definitely a unique place to visit in Tbilisi!

To get to The Chronicles of Georgia Monument from Tbilisi was a bit difficult due to not many tourists visiting and not many locals seeming to know about it, but after some pointing at a map and some hand signals, we found a taxi driver who knew where we wanted to go! It’s located to the north of the Tbilisi Sea (which is actually a reservoir) so i pointed this out on the map.

We agreed on 40 GEL for him to take us there, stay for about 40 minutes and then bring us back into the city. The journey took about 20 minutes and before we knew it we had pulled up in a quiet car park. The Chronicles of Georgia Monument is very random but it’s certainly impressive.

The pillars and huge and from the back you can see across Tbilisi sea. I was also pleased that it was indeed very quiet, this is not on any Tbilisi Day Trips yet but I can imagine in a few years this place will be on the tourist radar!

We only stayed for 30 minutes or so as there isn’t anything else to do at The Chronicles of Georgia Monument and headed straight back so it was a very quick trip but if you have time I would definitely recommend it!

Day Trips from Tbilisi 

Tbilisi is a great city but there’s a lot more to Georgia than just Tbilisi! For various reasons we didn’t base ourselves anywhere else other than Tbilisi but we did take a day trip up to The Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi which was actually my favourite day in Georgia!

We got a private driver for our day trip to the Kazbegi Mountains and headed North up the country a few km’s from the Russian border and stopped to take in the mountain views on the way. I would 110% recommend doing this trip especially if you’re just basing yourself in Tbilisi, I wrote a whole blog post on the  day trip here and filmed the trip which you can  watch here .

And if you want to escapre Tbilisi for a few days, here’s a guide to Signagi , one of the prettiest towns in Georgia!

This is one of the day tours that are on offer which you can book online to save you having to look when you get to Tbilisi:

What to Eat in Tbilisi.

Georgia is actually very popular for its local Georgian dishes and you can get them all in Tbilisi at Tbilisi’s Best Restaurants ! There are a few key dishes that you’ll no doubt try and see everywhere, especially in tourist places.

The food is very carb-heavy because there’s a lot of bread on offer (but its soo good!), and just so you know, it’s easy to be a vegetarian in Georgia but probably harder to be Vegan in Georgia as they eat a lot of dairy! Here is just a quick rundown on the best Georgian Foods to eat in Tbilisi and how to eat them!

You’ll probably see Khachapuri everywhere and oh my is it good! Bread with a cheese filling, complete with an egg on top and butter! And the correct way to eat it.. with your hands only! No knives or forks!

Kihnkali are Traditional Georgian dumplings.. who knew Georgian’s loved dumplings but they do!

They come with a few fillings, meat, cheese or mushroom and we actually preferred the cheese over the meat.

Although they might be sold individually on the menu the correct way to order Kihnkali is to order 5 per person, and to eat them is quite an art.

How to eat Kihnkali correctly is to pick them up by the stem and turn them upside down, take a bite and suck out the juice and then continue to eat them, if the juice is running down your arm then let it, apparently, this is better than getting it on the plate! But make sure you don’t eat the stem! No Georgians eat the stem (although it’s tempting), so put the stem back on the plate and move onto the next. To actually see me eat one then check out this vlog!

A cucumber and Tomato salad does sound quite boring right, even one with walnuts sounds boring, but salads in Georgia are not boring and are a great food to try in Georgia!

I was advised to try one of these simple salads and along with the walnut paste that we had on ours, all the spices they put on and the incredibly fresh and tasty tomatoes it was so good! (and helps balance out the fats from the Khachapuri!)

BBQ meat is very popular here, we had some nice dishes and although they are quite dry we had some chicken with pomegranate seeds and it was so nice!

Churchkhela

Around Tbilisi, you’ll see what looks like candles hanging up in shop fronts and stalls, these are actually edible! Inside them are nuts, walnuts usually, and the coating is fresh grape juice which then set around the nuts, the setting process takes a few months which is pretty crazy!

I did buy two and I’ll admit that I wasn’t a huge fan as to eat them you literally just bite into them and I figured they had just been hanging out in the open for probably quite a long time, however they are popular and if all else fails they make for a good picture!

What to Drink in Tbilisi Georgia.

Georgia is actually known for its wine and every blog post I read before going to Georgia raved about its wine. They make their wine by storing it in clay pots for months instead of big metal containers like a lot of other countries do. We didn’t end up drinking that much but we did do some tasting on the walking tour where we tried 3 types of wine and red, both sweet and dry. I loved the sweet red wine and later on we brought a bottle from the shop which was only a few pounds!

We drank more beer whilst we were there and liked the Argo which was super cheap.. cheaper than tea or coffee!

Cha cha is also something you may hear about, this is often referred to as Georgian vodka is often home-brewed so I can only imagine that it’s very strong!

Where to Eat and Drink in Tbilisi

We actually ended up eating on the same street (and in the same restaurant) pretty much all week because we figured we liked the food and this street must be the best area to eat in Tbilisi.

It was actually quite hard to find places to eat that weren’t on a main tourist street I thought, local restaurants were not that obvious, but either way here are 2 streets in Tbilisi with great restaurants. Both are walking streets away from the traffic which is one of the main reason we liked them and they’re on different sides of the city.

Erekelle II Street

This is a major tourist street but it’s one of the best places to eat in Tbilisi, it’s not that big and has maybe 8-10 restaurants and cafe’s along it. It’s pretty and it’s quiet and the staff are used to working with tourists so it’s good. We ate in a place called Pastorali most days and we loved the food there so I would highly recommend it. There’s also quite a few stray dogs and cats on this street, they’re friendly and just do their own thing but if you happen to have any leftovers I’m sure they won’t say no!

Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue

When I stumbled across this street I could not believe it. The buildings were so pretty, they had all been newly painted in bright colours with cute balconies and there were all different types of cafes lining the walking street. We enjoyed a lovely piece of cake and tea (so British I know!) at Cafe Velo.

We did, however, find it hard to find a dinner place in the evening so I would recommend street for lunch in Tbilisi or a snack/coffee.

Supermarket / Small store

If you’re staying in an Airbnb I would suggest heading to a supermarket to get some breakfast supplies because honestly, I have no idea where you’d find a good breakfast in Tbilisi or Brunch for that matter!

There are lots of small supermarkets as well as lots of cute little independent stores ran by the older generation and as with any foreign supermarket, you can find some weird and wonderful things! They sell some great cheeses and amazing fresh bread for about 20p!

If you want to see Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia really well, I would recommend checking out one of these tours , you could do a city tour, a bike tour, a wine tour, a mountain tour!

How to get around Tbilisi

Tbilisi is a totally walkable city! There is a metro and I thought we’d need to use it, but apart from the cable car and funicular, we didn’t use any public transport.

Tbilisi Travel Tips

Buy bottled water, don’t drink from the tap.

The plug adapter is a European adapter.

When you want to cross main roads look for an underground passage, there are a lot of passages along the very big roads because they’re so busy and there are no lights!

To cross a smaller road you just have to walk out and be confident, hold your hand out to tell drivers to stop and keep it out whilst you are walking across the road so they know to slow down.

Watch where you step, the pavement’s have holes and all sorts in them everywhere! There’s also a lot of dog poop!

Don’t worry about wifi, there is good wifi everywhere.

There are a lot of ATM’s and exchange shops.

I hope this either makes you decide to go to Tbilisi or helps plan your trip to Tbilisi and gets you excited for it!

• For more of my Georgia posts see:
• Day Trip to Kazbegi via the Georgian Military Road
• Visiting the Thermal Bath’s & which one to choose!
• Fabrika Hostel Tbilisi Review

To SEE my trip to Georgia check YouTube Vlogs Here !

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Viveka Gustavson

Wednesday 19th of December 2018

Hi there, leaving for a Christmas escape to Tbilisi on Friday. Thank you so much for all the useful information. So excited over my trip. Merry Christmas.

TheWanderingQuinn

Thursday 20th of December 2018

That will be so fun! You’re welcome and thank you for reading! :)

Thursday 7th of June 2018

Do you think it is better to take money from the ATM or exchange EURO? Thanks

I’d say to take money from the ATM when you’re there. :)

Friday 4th of May 2018

Thank you so much for the great information about Tbilisi and the photos too. I will be there in five days. Your experiences will help me a lot.

You’re welcome! Thank you so much for letting me know that you found it helpful. Enjoy, you’ll love it I’m sure! :)

Wednesday 18th of April 2018

I'm starting to plan my trip to Georgia this summer and this guide has been super helpful! I definitely can't wait to explore Tbilisi! :)

Thursday 19th of April 2018

Ooh I’m so glad! Thank you for letting me know Maja! You’ll love it I’m sure. I’ll be following along on insta! :)

sd malhotra

Sunday 4th of March 2018

excellent Blog. Did you see any Georgian Dance during your visit?

Thank you. No I didn’t see any which is a shame.

26 Best Places to Visit in Tbilisi

September 18, 2023

For the past few months, Tbilisi has been my brand-new home.

And as an unsurprising consequence of being here, I’ve spent lots of time exploring Georgia’s capital city. So in this guide, I’ve brought you all my favorite places to hang around… with a big juicy list of the 26 best places to visit in Tbilisi .

Included in this mish-mash mixture, we have history, heritage, ancient sites, cafes, clubbing, outdoor adventures, oddities, antiques, and your very own face painted on a coffee cup. Come join the fun!

Are you planning your trip to Tbilisi?

If you’re traveling to Tbilisi , you want to make sure you have accommodation and tours booked ahead of time! Check out our top-rated tours and hotels to help you plan! (Click the links for photos and details)

🚕 Book your private transfer from Tbilisi airport to your hotel

🇬🇪 Top Tours & Activities in Tbilisi

• City Highlights Walking Tour (A must for all visitors)
• Cooking master classes in a local family (enjoy Georgian cuisine)
• Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyons (this one will leave you speechless!)
• Private Tour to Sabaduri Forest and Chronicles of Georgia

🛏️ Best Hotels in Tbilisi

• The Biltmore Tbilisi Hotel (our top pick!)
• Castle in Old Town (stay in a real castle)
• Fabrika Hostel & Suites (excellent for solo travelers)
• Vinotel Boutique Hotel (winner of the best boutique hotel in Georgia award 2017)

🚗 Looking for the best way to rent a car in Tbilisi? Click here to check rental car rates for Tbilisi !

2. Bassiani

3. orbeliani baths, 4. leghvtakhevi waterfall, 5. mtatsminda park, 6. turtle lake, 7. lisi lake, 8. dog organization georgia (d.o.g.), 9. the dry bridge market, 10. tbilisi sea, 11. the chronicle of georgia, 12. dedaena park, 13. kvarts coffee, 14. the ethnography museum, 15. narikala fortress, 16. mother georgia, 17. tabor monastery, 18. tbilisi botanical garden, 19. deserter bazaar, 20. the leaning clock tower, 21. the old town, 22. national gallery of georgia, 23. meidan bazaar, 24. the holy trinity cathedral, 25. the peace bridge, 26. metekhi street virgin church, before you go.

Probably the most famous venue in the whole of Tbilisi, Fabrika is a whole load of different things all crammed into one area.

A graffiti-covered hipster haven, Fabrika is mainly a hostel and a cafe. But it’s attached to a courtyard… and surrounding that courtyard, you have lots of cool and quirky eateries, bars, cafes, hangout spots, and more.

If you like nightlife, socializing, and exploring kooky venues, you’ll love the place. No matter what time you visit, it’s always busy… and you’ll always find something to do, and someone to do it with.

Most people hanging around Fabrika are pretty happy to make friends, so it’s an especially good place to visit if you’re traveling solo.

From around 10 am until 8 pm, you’ll find Fabrika people eating, slurping coffee, and working on their laptops.

But after 8 pm, the place transforms into one of the city’s hippest and hottest nightlife spots. If you’re on the hunt for interesting venues, this is one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi—you can’t visit the city without spending a few hours here.

To discover more interesting places and hidden gems in Tbilisi you can take this great tour that includes Fabrika in its itinerary.

• Address: 8 Egnate Ninoshvili Street, Marjanishvili
• When to visit: Any time of the day, and after 8 pm for nightlife
• Book a room here

Next up, is another nightlife spot… and one of the best, biggest, and most interesting techno clubs on the entire planet.

I totally understand that this sort of thing isn’t for everyone… but Tbilisi’s techno scene is intrinsically tied to concepts of freedom, cultural revolution, and self-expression. So a night in Bassiani doesn’t just feel like a standard party—instead, it feels like you’re participating in some sort of important and unmissable cultural shift.

So even if nightclubs aren’t usually what you’re into, I still recommend spending a night in Bassiani . Dark and dingy but alluring and enigmatic, the place is located underneath a sports stadium, in the murky depths of an old swimming pool.

People genuinely come from all over the world to attend parties at this place. Usually, the events start at midnight, but don’t get busy until around 3am—and the dancing often keeps going until late morning or early afternoon.

• Address: 2 Akaki Tsereteli Avenue, close to Station Square
• Entrance fee: Typically between 30 and 60 lari
• When to visit: Fridays and Saturdays

Okay, now onto something a little more relaxing. After all the late-night partying, you’ll probably want to spend some time chilling.

And Tbilisi’s sulfur baths are the perfect solution. The city is full of various baths (many of them centered in and around Abanotubani, a small part of the Old Town) , but the most famous is Orbeliani (also known as Chreli-Abano) .

Yes, it’s pricey and touristy, but let’s face it… you’re a tourist.

Inside, you get massages, exfoliations, English-speaking staff, excellent service, and some surprisingly high-end touches. They only have private rooms, and you always need to book in advance.

If you want something a bit more authentic (and with more locals than tourists) , there are lots of options nearby, so just wander around the little baths district and see whichever you find most appealing.

But for the best local (and public) experience, the #1 option I know of is No.5 Sulfur Bathhouse. It doesn’t have a website, which I think tells you all you need to know about the place.

• Address: 31 Abano Street, the Old Town
• Entrance fee: Around 70 lari per hour
• Opening hours: 8am until 10pm, 7 days a week

Just beyond the baths district described above, there’s a pretty waterfall.

I don’t think I’d ever seen a city-center waterfall until I saw this one, and its tucked-away location is an interesting little surprise.

Wander beyond the dome-lidded baths and their eggy smell, and you find a narrow path that runs along a thin strip of a river. Follow the river for around 5 minutes, and you’ll eventually see Leghvtakhevi Waterfall.

Measuring in at 22 meters (72 feet) , it’s not massive, but it’s still pretty impressive.

• Location: West of the cluster of sulfur baths at Abanotubani
• When to visit: Outside of winter (when it isn’t frozen)

In and around Tbilisi, there are lots of great green spaces where you can have some excellent outdoor adventures.

The most famous of them all is Mtatsminda Park, which looms over the city and dominates its skyline. Home to a ferris wheel, a small theme park, lots of nice walks, and some great places to eat and drink, it’s a popular retreat for families.

Of all Tbilisi’s outdoor areas, it’s the most accessible, touristy and urbanized. So if you’re into remote escapes with a few other people, you might not like it.

That said, the walk up to the park from the Old Town is pretty, the views from the top are great, and there are some relatively nice trails leading from the park to various other places (including Turtle Lake and Mother Georgia, but more on them later) .

On your way up to Mtatsminda, make sure you stop at the Pantheon, a cemetery with lots of famous Georgians.

When you get to the top of the park, go to the Funicular Restaurant for the best hot chocolate you’ve ever had. And then if you want an even bigger walk, you can follow the trail that leads from Mtatsminda Park all the way to Narikala Fortress.

• Location: West of the Old Town

A little more interesting and adventurous than Mtatsminda, Turtle Lake is a decent compromise between adventurous and accessible.

At the shores of the lake, there are some restaurants and cafes with great views and good food and drink. My favorite is Buri BBQ—they do excellent and affordable BBQ-style food, along with great live music nights.

Along the shores of Turtle Lake, you also get playgrounds, ice cream stalls, boat hire, swimming spots, sunbathing areas, and even a zipline.

Then heading away from the lake, there are lots of pretty good hiking trails, taking you to Mtatsminda Park, endless viewpoints, the center of the city, and lots of other places.

When you visit Turtle Lake, you should ride the cable car down (or up, or both) . Retro and rugged, these cable cars are like old tin cans. If you’re scared of heights, a ride in one of these cars will probably be your worst nightmare—but if you like a little adventure, it’s a fun ride.

• Location: West of Rustaveli and the Old Town
• When to visit: Warmer months

Of all the well-known outdoor adventures close to the center of Tbilisi, Lisi Lake is the most pretty, interesting and adventurous.

For a basic slice of fun, you can walk, run or cycle around the perimeter of the lake (which measures around 2 miles/3.2km) . You get pretty views and an easy loop.

But if you want to do something a little more interesting, head along to the hills and ridges just west of the lake—from here, you can have some surprisingly remote adventures.

My favorite is to hit the higher of the two ridges that run west of the lake. Follow that ridge until you see a crucifix, and you’ll enjoy some incredible views of the lake, the city, and much further afield.

Best of all, Lisi Lake is also home to one of the most wholesome and lovely places you’ve probably ever seen in your life. Which brings us to…

• Location: North of Saburtalo

I can’t describe how much I love this place. If you like dogs, it’s 100% one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi, and I recommend it to basically everyone.

Right in the middle of nowhere, D.O.G. is a dog shelter which takes care of some of Tbilisi’s less-fortunate canine critters. Some of the shelter’s furry residents are found, and some are handed in by people who can no longer take care of them… but they’re all adorable and friendly.

But here’s the best part: anyone can visit the shelter, and take the dogs for walks.

If you want to make friends with some cute canines, you’ll fall in love with it, and you’ll want to spend every day of your life here. Honestly, if I had more time, I would volunteer at the place.

It can be a little difficult to find. But to get there, you want to follow the main road south of the lake. Take the first right after you pass the lake, then follow the dirt trail. When you hear the dogs barking, just follow the noise.

If you come here in warmer months, only take the dogs for short walks. They (understandably) can’t handle the intense heat of Tbilisi’s summers.

• Address: West of Lisi Lake
• Opening hours: Usually open all daylight hours
• When to visit: In spring or fall, when the weather is best

If you’re into antiques, oddities and collectibles (or just weird experiences) , I promise you’ll love the Dry Bridge Market.

One of the strangest markets I’ve ever seen, you’ll find a ridiculous variety of bizarre stuff here. I’m not usually interested in all this type of stuff, and even I love it—I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen another place like this.

You do of course get some pretty normal stuff, such as paintings, antiques, vases, cutlery, crockery, books, postcards, posters, records and DVDs.

But beyond the everyday items, expect to find stuff as strange and varied as swords, old currencies (with communist symbols on them) , wartime medals, drinking horns, ancient instruments, retro kids’ toys, taxidermy animals, and a whole load of stuff you won’t even recognize or understand.

Old-school and no-frills, most of the items are displayed on crumbling wooden tables with few frills and little flair. It’s like shopping in Soviet times.

• Location: On and around the Dry Bridge
• Opening hours: 10am until 5pm 7 days a week, but usually only in good weather
• When to visit: Weekends, when it’s most busy

Northeast of Tbilisi’s city center, you have Tbilisi Sea (which is actually a giant reservoir, and not part of a sea at all, but let’s not fret over the details) .

The biggest body of water near the city (and one of the biggest in the entire nation) , there are plenty of things you can do here, and you can easily spend the entire day having endless fun.

On and around the reservoir, there are lots of bars where you can eat, drink, sunbathe, and lazily lounge around. The most popular is Tbilisi Sea Club , which has a pool, sun loungers, and a varied menu of meals and drinks.

But if you prefer something a little more relaxing (and affordable) , you can just find some quieter stretches of sand at Temka Beach.

If you’re traveling with kids, check out Gino’s Paradise , a pretty good water park with rides, eateries, a lazy river, and even spa treatments.

• Address: Northeast of the city center
• When to visit: Weekends, and only in warmer months

Right beside Tbilisi Sea, you have the Chronicle of Georgia .

A massive monument sitting high over the water, this place is really striking, interesting and unusual.

Built in 1985, it was never actually completed (that’s Tbilisi for you) , but its sculptures and carvings represent the history of Georgia and its people (along with some pictures of Jesus and other religious boys and girls) .

Standing at 30 meters tall (that’s 98 feet) , it dwarves its visitors, and it’s worth checking out solely for its size. And because it sits high on a plateau, it offers great views of Tbilisi Sea and the surrounding area.

Visiting at night is also pretty cool, when it’s all illuminated.

• Location: At the northwestern point of Tbilisi Sea

For reasons I can’t quite even work out for myself, I love Dedaena Park so much. It’s nothing massive, and it’s nothing special, but I think it’s definitely the best city-center park in Tbilisi.

Popular with couples, kids, families, and groups of friends, it sort of has a bit of everything. Home to skateparks, seating areas, fountains, small bars and occasional food markets, it’s a lovely place to spend a lazy Saturday or Sunday.

Take some food, a speaker and some friends, and enjoy lounging around in the sun. You’ll meet friendly faces, hospitable locals, and lots of the city’s ever-charming stray dogs.

Inside Dedaena Park, you also have Dedaena Bar. During the day, they serve casual drinks and food. But at night, it becomes one of the best nightlife spots in the city—pretty small and intimate, the venue can probably cram around 300 people into its tiny confines. But all of them dance until dawn.

• Location: The western side of the Dry Bridge, right on on the banks of the river
• When to visit: Weekends, when it’s busy and bustling

Alright, here’s one of the strangest entries on our list. If you like unique and unusual stuff, it’s one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi.

Kvarts Coffee, from the outside, looks like a pretty small and standard coffee shop… and when you step inside, it also looks pretty normal.

But here’s the twist: whenever you visit, there’s always an on-site artist inside of Kvarts Coffee. And that artist has only one job: to scribble your face onto your coffee cup. So you order your coffee, you wait ten minutes, and then you slurp from a bespoke cup that looks just like you.

The coffee is tasty, the staff are super friendly, and the drinks menu is quite diverse for such a small place. They only have around 4 tables inside, so don’t expect to hang around for too long.

• Location: 26 Shota Rustaveli Avenue
• Opening hours: 9am until 10pm, 7 days a week
• When to visit: Not weekends, because it gets super busy

I’m not even remotely interested in museums. But of all of museums in Tbilisi , this is the most interesting.

An outdoor extravaganza featuring lots of old-style buildings and costume characters, the Open Air Ethnography Museum offers traditional dance, traditional sculptures, and insights into the way-back people and life of Tbilisi. With different buildings from different parts of Georgia, it’s an interesting insight into different periods.

Inside each building, you’ll find a guide—and each one usually speaks Georgian, Russian, and English.

Because the Ethnography Museum is on the way up to Turtle Lake, you can combine the two attractions into one bumper day of fun.

• Location: Halfway up Kus Tba Street
• Opening hours: Open 10am until 6pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays
• Entrance fee: 5 lari for adults, 0.50 lari for young people

Perched right over the city, and dominating the skyline of the Old Town, it’s Narikala Fortress.

With a history dating back to the 4th century, it’s changed hands countless times. Most recently renovated in 1996, it’s still a ruinous relic, but some parts are reasonably well-preserved.

Clambering around here is lots of fun—and it’s a surprisingly big place. You get great views of the city, along with some places to buy snacks and souvenirs. At the top, there’s a cable car running from the fortress to Rike Park (which is also a relatively decent place for a little wander) .

If you want the same views but with a seat (and tasty food and drinks) , check out 144 Stairs, a cafe just underneath the main part of the fortress.

• Location: Overlooking the Old Town
• When to visit: It’s best at sunset

Just a 5-minute walk away from the top of Narikala Fortress, it’s big beautiful Mother Georgia.

Standing right over the city, this impressive woman represents the personality of Georgia and its people. In one hand, she clutches some drink, to welcome her friends, guests and visitors. In her other hand, she holds a sword, to fend off her enemies and invaders.

The views of her from below are great, as are the views of the city from the platform on which she stands. Measuring in at an impressive 20 meters (65.5 feet) , she’s been standing proudly over the city since 1958.

• Address: Sololaki Street, above the northern side of Tbilisi Botanical Garden

One of the most underrated spots in the Old Town, Tabor Monastery (and the ascent up to its top) offer some of the city’s best vantage points.

Southeast of Mother Georgia, the Botanical Garden, Narikala Fortress, and many parts of the Old Town, there are hand-painted signs leading the way. En-route, you’ll feel like you’re walking through someone’s garden, in a place where you shouldn’t be walking… but no, that is the correct way, so just keep pushing on.

Because not many people visit the place, it’s always pretty quiet; great if you’re looking for a chilled-out place to sit around for a while.

Inside, the monastery is pretty sparse and austere, and it feels more ‘real’ than some of the city’s other religious attractions. The monks who live here are friendly and welcoming (if you see them) .

• Location: South of the deadend at Firdousi Street
• Opening hours: Typically open during daylight hours

Sitting underneath the last three things I’ve just mentioned, Tbilisi Botanical Garden is a pretty place for a wander, and it’s much bigger than most people expect.

Measuring in at 161 hectares (398 acres) , it has a waterfall, some pretty bridges, lots of plants, some hiking trails, a Japanese Garden, a fortress, great little picnic spots, and even a zipline.

I’m not usually particularly interested in Botanical Gardens, but this place is nice. So if a miserable man like me thinks it’s okay, then it must be good.

• Address: 12 Bambis Rigi Street, Solalaki
• Opening hours: 9am until 7:30pm, 7 days a week
• Entrance fee: 4 lari per adult
• When to visit: Outside of winter

If you like walking around traditional local food markets, this is one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi.

It’s a little more authentic than the Dry Bridge market. Although it does sell unusual stuff, it’s less gimmicky. Instead, it’s just a place where local people come to buy daily wares of various descriptions.

Absolutely huge, it’s brimming with all the local food and drink you could ever hope to see. There’s meat, fruit, vegetables, cakes, baked goods, Georgian specialities, local oddities, churchkhelas, pickled stuff, coffee stores, teashops, herbs, nuts, and everything else you can possibly imagine (plus loads of things you probably can’t) .

But you’ll also stumble upon a vast miscellany of various different stuff, including electronics, sports trophies, clothes, homewares, antiques, candles, and plenty more.

If you’re into markets, you could honestly spend a whole day just wandering around this place.

• Location: 5 Abastumani Street
• Opening hours: It’s busiest between 7am and 5pm, 7 days a week
• When to visit: Weekends, when it’s busiest

Imagine someone made a mini, ragged version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa from a variety of random materials, then put a clock on it.

You’re now imagining the leaning clock tower in Tbilisi, which is one of the strangest architectural oddities I’ve ever seen. Built onto the side of a puppet theater, this clock tower is purposely wonky and disheveled, and it has a strange charm.

There’s nothing much to do here, but I guarantee you’ll want to snap some photos.

• Address: 13 Ioane Shavteli Street

Lots of the places I’ve already featured make up the Old Town. So on a walk around the entire area, you’ll see the baths, the clock tower, Mother Georgia, the fortress, and even parts of Tbilisi Botanical Garden.

But the real charm of a stroll around the Old Town is all the stuff you accidentally stumble upon. A ragtag muddle of maze-like streets, ancient buildings, various architectural styles, hidden-away secrets and old wooden balconies, it’s hugely charming.

So, yeah, see all the famous stuff… but spend at least a couple of hours getting lost in Tbilisi’s Old Town.

You’ll see lots of strange and interesting things, and you’ll chance upon things that even lifelong locals probably haven’t seen.

If you’re interested in art, the National Gallery of Georgia is one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi. Most people reckon it’s the best fine art venue in the city, and it’s pretty hard to argue.

Sitting inside its confines, you get almost 30,00 pieces of art; many of them from famous Georgian painters and sculptors (including legendary Niki Pirosmanishvili) . Aside from all the Georgian stuff, they also have exhibits (both permanent and visiting) from artists from around the world.

If you’re really interested in all the art and history, you can book a guided tour (last time I checked, that costs 25 lari per person) .

Right on the main street in Rustaveli, The National Gallery of Georgia sits inside a pretty building… and it couldn’t be in a more central part of town.

• Address: 11 Shota Rustaveli Avenue
• Entrance fee: 5 lari for adults, 0.50 lari for kids

Right in the heart of the Old Town, the Meidan Bazaar is another cool place for seeking out souvenirs, antiques, and lots of strange and unusual stuff.

Sitting underground, in its maze-like network of brick-built tunnels, you’ll find drinks, spices, handcrafted clothes, musical instruments, snacks, sweets, rugs, house decorations, and lots more varied wares.

It’s pretty touristy (with the prices to match) but it’s still a cool place to visit. It sort of feels like a subterranean gift store, but in the best way possible.

• Address: Underneath the Old Town, just over the western side of Metekhi Bridge
• Opening hours: 10am until 10pm, 7 days a week

Over the river from the Old Town, you have the city center district of Avlabari.

And at the loftiest part of Avlabari (and trust me, it is very lofty) , there’s the Holy Trinity Cathedral… one of the biggest, most significant and most impressive religious buildings in the entirety of Georgia. It’s the third-biggest Orthodox cathedral on the planet, and you can see it from miles around.

The interiors are pretty impressive, but parts of the cathedral and its complex are still under construction. So while it’s pretty good now, it’ll probably be even better soon.

But the interiors aren’t the best part. Instead, the best parts are the views you get from the cathedral and its surroundings. So make sure you have a vague wander in the general area for some great panoramas of the Old Town.

Yes, this is the same place as ‘Sameba’. For whatever reason, the cathedral is known by two different names

• Location: North of Avlabari metro station

For me, there’s nothing particularly special about this place… but most tourists seem to love it.

An ultra-modern bridge that spans over a part of the city’s river, I guess the cool thing about the Peace Bridge is how it clashes so distinctly with the ragtag nature of the nearby Old Town.

So it’s nice, and I recommend it, and you should visit because it’s in the center of the city—but don’t get too excited by the prospect.

It’s best to visit the Peace Bridge at night, when it’s lit up.

• Location: West of Rike Park
• When to visit: At night, when it’s brightly illuminated

From the grounds of Metekhi Street Virgin Church, you get the best (or at least the most famous) view of the Old Town.

When you Google pictures of Tbilisi, there’s one view that always pops up without fail. That view is with the river in the foreground, and the Old Town in the background… and it’s the view you get from the grounds of Betlemi Church.

So to see that iconic panorama, this is exactly where you need to go.

When you’re finished snapping your photographs, head inside the church. It’s nothing particularly special, but it’s pretty and peaceful.

• Location: Metekhi Street, just along the eastern banks of the river
• Opening hours: Usually daylight hours

And there they are—the 26 best places to visit in Tbilisi. Thanks for reading!

For more adventures, check out my selection of the best tours in Tbilisi and around .

Want to know anything else about Georgia’s brilliant capital city? Check out our guides to the most beautiful parks in Tbilisi , everything Tbilisi is known for , and all the reasons you should visit the place . Also does it snow in Tbilisi and what to do on those days.

Thanks for stopping by, thanks for choosing Travelness, and we’ll see you next time!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Tbilisi guide – 21 Tbilisi travel tips to make your trip easier

Last Updated on 01/07/2024 by kami

Tbilisi, the awesome capital of Georgia and one of my favorite cities, is getting more and more popular with each year.

I’ve been visiting Tbilisi frequently for the past 8 years – the number of tourists increased, a lot and Tbilisi tourism is developing rapidly.

And I do get it, the city is amazing, with so much to offer that everyone should find something interesting.

If you are planning to visit Georgia I put together a small Tbilisi guide with numerous Tbilisi travel tips that will hopefully make your trip smoother.

Tbilisi essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Tbilisi airport to your accommodation in Tbilisi here .
• Where to stay in Tbilisi: Hotel Flower (9.1/10) / Redrum Tbilisi Boutique Hotel (9.3/10)
• Best Tbilisi tour: Private Walking Tbilisi City Tour
• Best day trip from Tbilisi: Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch
• Get insured for your trip to Georgia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Where is Tbilisi Georgia?

First things first – Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is located in the Caucasus region.

The country has borders with Turkey, Russia , Azerbaijan , and Armenia and it used to be part of the Soviet Union.

The local time is GMT +3 in the summer and GMT +4 in winter.

When is the best time to visit Tbilisi, Georgia?

I’ve been to Tbilisi in all seasons and my favorite time is either spring or autumn.

Summers can be insanely hot there, the city is also full of tourists so you might wait a bit in line for a cable car or for a table at the restaurant.

On the other hand, winters can be unpredictable. If you plan a trip to Tbilisi aim for either spring or autumn.

Tbilisi in spring

Money in Tbilisi

The local currency in Georgia is lari (GEL). At the time of writing this article (March 2019), 1 GEL was approximately $0,38 and €0,33.

I assume Georgian lari isn’t readily available all over the world, but you don’t need to worry about it.

There are numerous ATMs all over Tbilisi so you can get your money without problems. Just be careful as some ATMs charge the commission – i.e., ProCredit Bank on Liberty Square.

If you want to exchange money the easiest will be US dollars, Euro or Russian rubles.

There are numerous exchange points all over the city (I know by heart at least 3 at Kote Afkhazi street – the main road in Old Tbilisi that connects Liberty Square with Metekhi Bridge), and you will easily spot them.

The rates are more or less similar to all of them, the majority of these points also don’t take the commission.

You can also pay by card with most of the cafes, restaurants, shops and other places.

How to get to Tbilisi

There are numerous way how to get to Tbilisi: plane, train, bus, marshrutka – you name it.

If you arrive from abroad, you will most likely fly to Georgia, either to Tbilisi or Kutaisi airport.

To get from Tbilisi airport to the city center, you need to take bus no 37.

It runs 24/7 from the airport to the central train station via Avlabari metro station, Liberty Square and Rustaveli. The ticket costs 0,50 lari (~ $0,20 / €0,17) and can be bought onboard – you need to place the travel card on top of the grey ticket machine and collect the printed ticket (if you don’t have it you can ask fellow passengers to do it for you and give them money, it’s also possible to throw the coins to the machine directly).

You can check the schedule of the buses here .

Alternatively, if you already have the internet data or if the airport wifi works well, you might take Yandex Taxi – a local version of Uber, popular in many post-USSR countries.

Everything works just like with Uber, you only need to download the app before the trip, and you’re free to go.

The big advantage of Yandex Taxi is that you can pay by cash, whereas in Uber it’s not always possible.

From the Liberty Square, the Yandex Taxi should cost just under 20 lari.

If you arrive in Georgia with low-cost airlines, you will most likely land at Kutaisi International Airport. That’s actually how I most often reach Georgia, and there are no issues with getting to Tbilisi from there.

A company called Georgian Bus operates Kutaisi airport – Tbilisi route, with the departure time suitable for flight arrivals.

They wait for all the passengers and depart when everyone is on the bus, usually within an hour after the plane arrives. They also have enough seats for everyone.

You can buy the ticket online or get it after arriving at Kutaisi (that’s what I always do) – Georgian Bus stand is directly in front of the exit from the arrivals zone.

One way ticket costs 20 lari, but if you buy a return (you need to tell them when exactly you are going back), it’s 36 lari.

The journey from Kutaisi airport to Tbilisi takes around 4 hours, in Tbilisi buses arrive and depart from Liberty Square.

If you come from Yerevan, Armenia or Baku, Azerbaijan most likely you will arrive by train.

The station is well connected with central Tbilisi by metro, it’s two stops away from Rustaveli and three from Liberty Square.

You might also arrive by bus/marshrutka (uncomfortable minibus, the most popular form of local transport in former USSR countries) to Tbilisi, in that case, it depends on the destination where you will arrive from.

Marshrutkas from Kutaisi, Batumi and other destinations in Western Georgia arrive to Didube – you can take the metro from there to the center.

Comfortable vans from Yerevan arrive at Avlabari – it’s very close to the center and with the good metro connection. Marshrutkas from Yerevan (not really recommended) or buses from Turkey come to Ortachala bus station – it’s more tricky to get to the center from there, buses no 50 or 71 go directly to Liberty Square.

Tbilisi train station

How to get around Tbilisi

You will walk to many places in Tbilisi, especially in and around the Old Town.

But the good thing is Tbilisi has an efficient and easy to navigate the public transport system.

There are two metro lines, numerous buses, and cable cars that you can use, one ride costs 0,50 lari (although if you change between mode of transportation within a certain time you are not charged for another ticket, I haven’t figured out yet how long it is).

You can get a public transport card in the metro station (I got my ages ago, it was and still is 2 lari), charge it how much you want and use it for how many people you want.

If there are three of you, you don’t need to get three separate cards. Instead, each of you can use the same card to get the ticket.

You can check beforehand which buses you will need at the website of Tbilisi public transport company – it’s easy to navigate.

Once at the bus stop screens are showing the nearest departure, with the destinations written in both Georgian and English.

In the new blue buses, you will find the ticket machine in the middle door, in the old yellow ones you should enter through the front door.

With the public transport card, you can also use cable cars to Narikala fortress (2,50 lari one way) and to from Vake Park to Turtle Lake (1 lari/one way).

The funicular to Mtatsminda requires a separate card, it costs 2 lari and then the ticket is 3 lari/one way.

The card can be bought and charged at the lower station of the funicular if more people are traveling together one card is enough for everyone.

Inside old bus in Tbilisi

Tbilisi travel card and ticket

Metro station Technical University

Where to stay in Tbilisi

My number one Tbilisi accommodation is Hotel Flower . I stayed there during my last visit to Tbilisi, and I know I will be staying there again.

Everything about this hotel was great – the location, the staff, the large, spotless room and filling breakfast.

But the absolute best thing about the place was the view, I don’t think I know a hotel in Tbilisi with a better view really.

The hotel is located on the 6th floor, and each room is facing the city – I got a view towards Mother Georgia, Narikala, Avlabari and beyond.

There is also a terrace from where you can see the view in all the directions. Just stunning!

For my three nights stay, I paid 204 lari which I think is a very reasonable price for everything the hotel offers.

It has the rating of 9.9/10 on Booking – you hardly see such a high rates there!

Click here to see current rates and book Hotel Flower

My view from the window at Hotel Flower

Other recommended places to stay in Tbilisi:

• ALCATRAZ JAIL-HOSTEL (9.5/10 on Booking)
• Fabrika Tbilisi (9.0/10 on Booking)
• Tuta Hotel (9.5/10 on Booking)

Inside Fabrika

What to do in Tbilisi

This list can be long really.

First and foremost head to the Old Tbilisi and get lost in the maze of streets there.

Visit some of the amazing old churches (did you know Georgia was among the first countries that took Christianity as the state religion?), including Sioni Cathedral.

Take the cable car (or walk) to Narikala Fortress and while you are there say hello to Mother Georgia.

Go to the old baths. Hang out in the Rike Park and walk across the funky Bridge of Peace.

Walk down Rustaveli Avenue to admire the splendid architecture. Go shopping at the Dry Bridge flea market and walk the Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue.

And don’t even get me started with the Soviet architecture in Tbilisi! There are so many things to do in Tbilisi , really!

Old Tbilisi

Davit Aghmashenebeli Avenue

How many days should you stay in Tbilisi

I think the absolute minimum is 2 days in Tbilisi but the more, the better.

I’ve already spent around 4 weeks here in total, and I still haven’t seen everything I wanted to. It’s one of these places that the more time you spend here, the more things to do you find.

Where to eat in Tbilisi

Let’s start with the most important fact here – Georgian food is hands down the best.

As a vegetarian, there are so many options I can choose from that make Georgia food heaven for me.

I have one favorite place to eat in Tbilisi (that is currently going through renovation, unfortunately) and that’s Racha at Lermontov street.

If a friend wouldn’t have taken me there the first time I don’t think I’d notice this place myself, or be brave enough to enter.

But don’t get discouraged, Racha might not look fancy (although it improved a lot over the years) but it offers some of the best and cheap food.

If Racha is closed or busy another place I visit frequently is Samikitno.

It’s a chain, they have numerous locations all over the city. However, I most often go to the one at Liberty Square.

They are open 24/7 which is good when you arrive in the city early in the morning and are dying to get some Georgian food (which is often how I start my visits in Tbilisi).

Their dishes are good, and the prices are affordable too (I never paid more than 20 lari there, including the service, and I always left full).

Cafes in Tbilisi

You might not know or expect it but Tbilisi is kind of like a hipster capital of Eastern Europe. The number of cool places to visit here is outstanding and that also applies to the cafes.

So many great places opened up here recently that again, a week wouldn’t be enough to visit them all. So if you are looking a good cafe in Tbilisi here are my top picks:

Althaus Tea Room

Moulin Electrique

• Skola Coffee & Wine Bar

Where to go out in Tbilisi

To be honest, I’m not much of a party animal so I can’t personally recommend any place to go out in Tbilisi.

Everyone kept raving about Bassiani – an iconic techno club located in the former Soviet pool in the basement of Dinamo stadium.

Knowing how Fabrika looks like in the daylight, I assume this might be an excellent place for a night out too!

Day trips from Tbilisi

Tbilisi can be a perfect base for day trips around. The most popular is Mtskheta, the holy city of Georgia located only 20 km away from Tbilisi.

Other places you can easily visit as day trips from Tbilisi include David Gareja , Sighnagi, Gori, Uplistsikhe, Ananuri or Kazbegi (although the last one definitely deserves more than a day in my opinion).

Here you can check the details and current prices of day trips from Tbilisi:

• David Gareji Monastery and Signagi Wine Tasting Private Tour
• Kazbegi, Gergeti & Ananuri Mountains Private Full-Day Tour
• Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Gori, Stalin Museum & Uplistsikhe Tour
• Borjomi & Bakuriani: Small Group Full-Day Tour from Tbilisi
• From Tbilisi: Private Day Trip to Armenia

David Gareja

Be careful when walking around

And I don’t even mean crazy local drivers. This might sound silly but be careful when wandering around Tbilisi.

Dogs poop is a big problem here, some of the streets are so full of them you need almost to jump around. You don’t want to end up with one on your shoes…

Be brave to get lost

Old Tbilisi is an incredible maze of streets.

Be brave, hide the map and wander aimlessly around. Don’t be afraid to get lost. You don’t even know how many amazing wonders you can find around.

That’s actually how once I found probably the most colorful house in Tbilisi, still with “for rent” sign – today it’s one of the biggest attractions of the area.

One of the highlights of Tbilisi is beautiful yards. Be curious, step inside and see them too. They are beautiful and again might hide some wonders waiting for you to find them!

Be observant

Tbilisi is all about the details. Tiles, sculptures, mosaics, paintings – you will see a wide variety of all of these in Tbilisi. Be observant and catch as many of these details as possible!

Be respectful

Remember that locals are living around. What might be one of the biggest Tbilisi attractions for you is just everyday reality and home for them.

Georgian people are in general very hospitable, but they might get annoyed when more and more tourists are sneaking around their houses.

So remember to be respectful when exploring Old Tbilisi. And be friendly to locals, they deserve it.

You will notice a lot of people staring at you (that’s perfectly acceptable in Georgia).

Don’t be intimidated and don’t turn your eyes away, smile and say hello (in Georgian, Russian, English…) – 90% of them will immediately warm up and you might end up with some interesting conversations.

Learn the language

Georgian language is very beautiful but it’s also one of the hardest languages to learn. It’s worth to know few useful sentences, though – it will help you tremendously.

After all this trips to Georgia I know only these words:

• gamarjoba – hello
• didi madloba – thank you very much
• gaumarjos – cheers
• ara – no

I use gamarjoba and didi madloba a lot, and that changes everything! People really appreciate that you are making an effort, especially when their own language is so tricky.

You might confuse “gamarjoba” and “gaumarjos” sometimes – it used to happen to me a lot and resulted in a lot of laughter.

It’s useful to know a bit of Russian too.

Georgia used to be part of the Soviet Union, and a lot of people speak excellent Russian.

Knowing it might help you get around (I used it for example when I was trying to get out of the Chronicle of Georgia monument but didn’t know which side of the road the bus departs from or when I didn’t know if it’s OK if I go to the famous bridge between the blocks in Nutsubidze Plato) and most likely you end up in some small talk too.

My Russian is rather weak in general but I’ve mastered a small-talk by now, and it is always nice to be able to chat with people.

In central Tbilisi you will easily get around with English only so you don’t need to worry if that’s your default language, you will be fine!

Chronicle of Georgia

Nutsubidze Plato

Don’t look down on local people

I wish I didn’t have to write this Tbilisi travel tip, but I’ve heard and seen so many unfair and simply rude comment towards locals that it’s worth mentioning.

Don’t be an ass and don’t look down on local people.

Georgia and especially Tbilisi might be probably the fastest developing place I’ve seen (every time I visit Tbilisi I’m impressed how much it has changed), but there is still a lot to be done.

Don’t look with contempt at people who beg (unfortunately there are many of them in Tbilisi), don’t make stupid and hurtful comments towards them.

Don’t do disdainful remarks about living condition and infrastructure people have.

You will shortly come back to your well-developed country that has everything you need so just leave your disrespectful thoughts to yourself.

Of course not everyone who travels to Tbilisi is like that, it’s a minority of visitors really, but still, surprisingly many tourists are guilty here. So please, don’t be one of them.

Is Tbilisi expensive?

No, I would say it’s a very affordable city.

Prices of groceries, restaurants, and cafes are lower than in Poland (where I live).

I never paid more than 20 GEL (including tip) for eating out in a fine place. Of course, you can spend more, like everywhere.

Some of the prices in Tbilisi:

• khachapuri from the bakery – 2,5 GEL
• Big bottle of water – around 1 GEL
• 1 liter of Coca-Cola – 2 GEL
• Coffee in the cafe – around 5 GEL
• Public transport ticket – 0,50 GEL
• Khinkali in the restaurant – around 0,50 – 0,80 GEL / piece
• 1 liter of cha-cha in the bazaar – 6 GEL
• 1 kg of sulguni cheese in the bazaar – 12 GEL
• Painkillers in the pharmacy – 4 GEL

buying chacha at the bazaar

Is Tbilisi safe?

I find Tbilisi to be a very safe city.

Majority of my trips there were solo, I ventured into some bizarre places, and there was not a single situation when I felt something was wrong.

Georgia was the first really “eastern” country I visited, I remember how I was freaking out before this trip, but then I also remember how safe I found, a massive contrary to what the stereotypes about Western vs. Eastern Europe were back then.

There is a significant number of police and security in public spaces, and that actually makes me feel somewhat comfortable.

Of course, petty crime happens here as it does everywhere else.

A while ago I heard about a few incidents with pickpockets near Mother Georgia statue but that was before the cable car started operating and not many tourists really made it there. Now, this is a popular place, and it’s less likely something might happen there.

As everywhere else – just use your common sense, don’t behave stupid and irresponsible and you will be fine.

Is it worth to visit Tbilisi?

Yes, yes and yes!

This is the place where you can see how East meets West (kind of like in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina ), it’s neither in Europe nor in Asia.

Tbilisi is a unique blend of cultures, influences, religions. It’s the city like no other.

During my first trip to Georgia, I was supposed to stay in Tbilisi for 2 days and then continue my trip onward to other places in the country.

Well, I stayed 9 days (I had 11 days in Georgia in total, only went to Batumi for 2 days) and had a blast – that’s how much I enjoyed Tbilisi.

Since then I’ve been returning over and over again to the city, and it’s never enough for me.

The more time I spend there, the more things to do are on my list (something like this happens to me with Kyiv, Ukraine too). I don’t think I will ever be tired or done with Tbilisi, to be honest…

I know some people didn’t like the city and find it overrated and I can understand it too.

Tbilisi gets a lot of the hype (I’m adding to it myself), and the expectations might be too big so don’t get overexcited before coming here.

Just travel to Tbilisi, anticipate nothing and enjoy the city to the fullest!

Further reading

I published many articles about Georgia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 22 Wonderful and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia
• 15 reasons to visit Georgia – the amazing emerging destination
• 49 Awesome Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia
• 10 Beautiful Day Trips from Tbilisi, Georgia
• How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Yerevan to Tbilisi) – a complete guide
• Is it worth to visit Kutaisi? Best things to do in Kutaisi, Georgia
• 10 Amazing Places You Can Visit As Day Trips From Kutaisi, Georgia
• 20 Cool Things to do in Batumi, Georgia
• Visit Tskaltubo, Georgia – an abandoned playground

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus and ask your questions there.

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• If you don’t want to miss new posts and news from me click here to sign to my newsletter! You can also follow me on Bloglovin!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Tbilisi too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. If you like what you are reading and seeing here and would like to support me and my blog please consider using those links. It would be like getting me a virtual drink that you don’t have to pay for! Thanks!

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29 Comments

lee hamilton

A great blog so much useful information of what to see and do where to eat nfo about trains and planes and trains all very helpful.i hope to go there next year..Great pics to and very well written.It sure has got be thinking about planning a trip for next year.

Thank you. I hope you will make it to Georgia, it’s definitely recommended!

Thank you for this guide! What’s the name of the café that’s pictured under Money in Tbilisi? It looks magical. Thanks!

thank you! It’s Prospero’s Books, it’s located in the yard on Rustaveli.

Im travelling to Georgia in 2 weeks and im super excited! Thanks for the very informative blog! :)

I hope you had a great time in Georgia! All the best and happy travels! :)

I did! It was amazingly beautiful laidback city! I feautured it in my youtube channel, hope to come back for more :) More power on your blogs!

https://www.youtube.com/user/acejoannetizon

I’m glad you had a great time! All the best and haooy travels!

Hello Kami.

I am so glad to find about your site. It’s very helpful to me. I am planning to travel to Tbilisi this July and I am doing it solo for the first time. Thank you for such great help.

I’m sure you will have a great time in Georgia, it’s such a great country! Happy travels!

STAMATIA CHONDRAKI

Thank you so much for your helpful article. We re gonna travel to georgia the following week, and i would like to ask you, in what way would you suggest us to travel from tbilisi to kutaisi. Thank you

I’m glad you liked the article. Do you want to travel to the city of Kutaisi or Kutaisi airport? You can take the train to the city but the station is a bit away from the center. Or you can take marshrutka but that’s never comfortable, but super easy. If you go to the airport then Georgian Bus is your best option.

Great information for 1st time travellers. Found it very useful. Would like to know why are the hotel rates priced as MYR when the local currency is GEL . Please let me know the same as I am confused .

Do you mean on Booking.com? It must be your browser or Booking settings as for me they are either in PLN (my local currency) or EUR, but sometimes it randomly shows me prices in Romanian currency for some reason.

I’m in Tbilisi at the moment and I printed off your guide to bring as it was so useful, thank you! Have eaten at Samikitno tonight..amazing! Thanks for all the other guides too, am loving reading them for places I’ve been to and those I have yet to visit :) Sally

I’m so glad you found the information useful! Have a great time in Tbilisi! I love this place! :)

another thank you for the blog, I found it very useful. I spent a week in Tbilisi for the rugby game between Georgia & Scotland, and I found the city to be wonderful place to visit. I would emphasis that a friendly face & a few words of Georgian go a long way there, make the effort and it will be rewarded tenfold as they are such friendly people.

Thank you, I’m glad you found the article helpful and that you enjoyed Tbilisi. And I so agree about smiling and knowing a bit of Georgian, it changes everything!

Love this guide, planning a trip to Tbilisi in the spring of next year. How easy is it to get to and from the airport? I’m traveling solo, so I’m pretty nervous about it.

Niklas, I used the bus for this trip. The number 37 bus stops at the entrance to the departure hall. What I did on arrival was to get myself a local SIM for 15 GEL (I think I used BeeLine), then I bought a coffee in order to get some coins for the bus trip. The bus trip into the centre of Tbilisi is 50 Tetri (or half a Lari) and there was a conductor on board who handled the payment for me :-) The bus will accept 1 & 2 Lari coins but it doesn’t give change. It’s a really easy a trip to make and certainly nothing to be nervous about.

You have nothing to worry about Niklas! Most of my trip to Tbilisi were solo and everything was just fine. Georgia is much safer than Western Europe and locals are super friendly and will look after you. As Al said, bus no 37 is your best option to get from the airport to the center. Have a great trip!

Lucía Curiel

is easy to communicate in english?

In most of the places – yes. Young people can speak English well.

Very nice blog. Informative. Tomorrow I m travelling to Tbilisi on short 2 days trip. Very excited about it.

Thank you! I hope you will enjoy Tbilisi!

Just wanted to say thank you for the detailed post. I am travelling to Georgia in 4 days with my family. I am very excited!

That’s so great! Have a wonderful trip there!

I was going to book Hotel Flower for my trip next month, but the prices online were exorbitantly expensive, not even close to the price you mentioned. Did you book well in-advance or visit Tbilisi very off-season? Kind of disappointed :(

When I stayed there the hotel was fairly new, maybe that’s why the price was lower. I will need to take a look into that. Thank you for telling me about the change! All the best!

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36 Hours in Tbilisi

Gourmands, partyers and aficionados of art and architecture (and shopping) will find no end of riches in the East-meets-West capital of Georgia.

By Debra Kamin

With chaotic yet charming cobblestone streets, dome-shaped bathhouses steaming with sulfuric waters, and crumbling Soviet factories repurposed as hipster hotels, Tbilisi is a study in contrasts. Capital of Georgia and the heart of the Caucasus, the city teems with riches: cathedrals that rise in the hills like layer cakes; hidden cafes bursting with bric-a-brac, and a bohemian art scene that is slowly peeling away the Soviet grit from this survivalist town to reveal a vibrant creative core. Conquered and reconquered for centuries, Tbilisi now wears its battle scars with pride. From its medieval fortress walls to its buzzing new luxury boutiques, this East-meets-West city offers something for everyone.

1) 4 p.m. MOTHER GEORGIA

Start your time in Tbilisi with a perspective shift. Board one of the sleek, modern cable cars straight up to the 4th-century Narikala Fortress, which looms over the city and is guarded by Kartlis Deda, a 66-foot-tall aluminum woman with a cup of wine for friends in one hand and a sword for her enemies in the other. Also known as Mother Georgia, Kartlis has one of the best views in town, so join her after the smooth 10-minute ride through the sky for the ultimate photo op of Tbilisi’s many layers. From the fortress, you can gaze down upon the 19th-century Old Town, the much more ancient river walls of the Mtkvari River and the gleaming new installations in Rike Park. Before boarding your return cable car, wait patiently for the aerial tramway’s pièce de résistance — a glass-bottomed car, which takes 360-degree views to the next level as it whisks you back down to ground (2.5 lari, or about $1).

2) 5 p.m. BRIDGE THE GAP

Descend from the 4th century straight into the 21st at Rike Park, a feat of modern urban planning that is shaped like the map of Georgia and has picnic areas, a climbing maze, a giant grand piano and a choreographed musical fountain. The park’s most recognizable feature is the twin metal exhibition halls designed by the Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas, two glass and steel tubes that are conjoined at the back and serve as a concert hall and an exhibition space. Rike Park is connected to Old Tbilisi by the bow-shaped Bridge of Peace: another Italian-designed marvel featuring curved steel, a glass canopy top and, at night, a light show of 1,000 twinkling LEDs.

3) 6 p.m. SCRUB-DOWN

A short walk from Rike Park sits the Abanotubani district, a collection of brick bathhouses with distinctive dome-shaped roofs that for centuries have been a pilgrimage site for Georgians in need of a restorative sulfuric dip. The baths offer gender-segregated communal pools as well as private rooms with steaming bathtubs; for a handful of extra lari, bathers can also get a professional scrub-down and massage. The most tourist-friendly of the bathhouses is the intricately tiled Chreli Abano (as known as Orbeliani) Baths (private bathing rooms from 40 lari an hour; massages start at 50 lari); locals also praise Gulo’s Spa for its squeaky-clean rooms (private bathing rooms from 30 lari an hour; a massage or scrub is an additional 10 lari).

4) 9 p.m. A PRINCESS-POET’S MENU

The linchpin of Georgian culture is the supra, or festive meal. The Georgian kitchen is heavily seasonal and features a dizzying intermarriage of Eastern and Western flavors, anchored by thick khinkali soup dumplings, plump with rich broth; cheesy flatbreads scorched in clay ovens; and a harmony of sweet and sour flavors culled from the freshest fruits and herbs. For a taste of true Georgian tradition, descend the curving iron staircase to the dining room at Barbarestan , a family-owned gem housed in an old brick meat cellar with aging hooks still visible in the ceiling. It’s hard to go wrong with anything from the restaurant’s menu, which is based on the 19th-century cookbook from the feminist princess-poet Barbare Jorjadze, but highlights include the ghandzili salad of pickled wild garlic; the duck filet with stewed quince and homemade bread from Georgian red wheat. (Dinner for two, with wine, 250 lari.)

5) 9 a.m. BREAD AND BUTTER

Perhaps because of the decadence of its dinners, Georgians start their days late, and Tbilisi has no real breakfast culture to speak of. If you defy the masses to rise before noon, however, don’t despair: At Retro , a paradise for bread-lovers that opens at 9 a.m., you can dig into acharuli khachapuri , a veritable canoe of oven-baked bread that is as big as your head and swimming with hot cheese, butter and floating egg yolks. (Khachapuri, from 7.50 lari.)

6) 11 a.m. FULL TILT

Tbilisi’s Old Town is a jumble of narrow winding streets, crooked churches and tilting pastel villas with intricately latticed balconies. The fairest of them all might be the home housing Gallery 27 , an attic souvenir shop and textile gallery selling handmade Georgian crafts. Climb the creaking staircase lined with jewel-toned stained glass, and take your time browsing, but make it the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater by noon; at the stroke of 12, the windows of the theater’s clock tower burst open and offer the crowds below a charming mini-marionette show (the show repeats at 7 p.m.).

7) 1 p.m. CAFES FOR ART LOVERS

There is perhaps no better place to experience the modern, creative pride that marks post-Soviet Tbilisi than its art cafes. Each of these bistros is distinct, but all feature vintage design, quality food and a delightful blurring of gallery and gathering place. One of the prettiest, Cafe Leila , sits a stone’s throw from the Gabriadze Theater. Its menu offers fresh vegetarian spins on Georgian classics, served in a colorful room of stucco walls and Persian-inspired paintings (lunch for two, 100 lari).

8) 2:30 p.m. FUN(ICULAR) AND GAMES

The Tbilisi TV Tower, a Soviet-era eyesore hovering over the city on Mount Mtasminda, hides something much more appealing: Mtasminda Park , a landscaped amusement park and urban playground that is accessible by a funicular that goes straight up the mountain. For the best views, grab a seat in the funicular’s front carriage for the 1,640-foot vertical ride to the park, where four restaurants and a variety of carnival rides await you (3 lari a ride).

9) 5 p.m. BURIED TREASURE

Georgia is one of the oldest viticultur al regions on earth, and Tbilisi is littered with cavernous tasting rooms — some better than others — for swishing and swirling the nation’s sulfite-free, clay-pot-aged wine. Culinary Backstreets offers gastronomic tours ($95 for 7 hours, includes all food and drink) of Tbilisi that include a full wine tasting as well as a crash course on chacha, the local moonshine. For those shorter on time, a visit to Vino Underground (tasting from 25 lari) or 8000 Vintages will quench your palate.

10) 8:30 p.m. TENEMENT TABLES

Zura Natroshvili was planning to build a swimming pool for his son on the terrace of his eighth-floor duplex apartment when he had a better idea: Why not bury four dozen ceramic urns full of grapes in the pool instead, turn the contents into world-class wine, and then convert his apartment’s first floor into a restaurant? The result was Bina N37 , where guests reach their dinner after buzzing the intercom of Mr. Natroshvili’s apartment building and then taking a seat in his former living room. The menu, which includes kharcho (veal-and-walnut stew) and herb-flecked khachapuri, is elevated yet traditional — much like the space itself. (Dinner for two, 150 lari, with wine).

11) 11 p.m. THREAD THE NEEDLE

Underground rave houses like Bassiani , Mitkvarze and Vitamin Cubes , which all open late and throb till daylight, are helping Tbilisi earn a global reputation as a hard-core party capital. But there are tamer ways to take in Tbilisi’s vibrant night life — at Fabrika , a hostel and multi-function urban space built in a former sewing factory, there’s eclectic urban design, multiple bars and music halls, a gallery space and even a board game cafe. Follow the hipsters toward the graffiti-plastered walls of the factory’s inner courtyard and take your pick.

12) 10 a.m. ROLLING IN DOUGH

If you go to the restaurant Zakhar Zakharich in the morning, you’ll most likely find empty tables, or a handful of drunken post-rave partyers slurping khashi — Georgia’s tripe-and-garlic soup that serves as a hangover remedy. Don’t let this stop you. It’s a crime to leave Tbilisi without tasting khinkhali, the Georgian soup dumpling, and Zakhar Zakharich is known for making the best. Hand-rolled and stuffed with a variety of fillings (the lamb is the tastiest), these fist-size morsels make an ideal breakfast.

13) 11:30 a.m. TREASURE HUNT

Just across the street from Zakhar Zakharich lies Dry Bridge, where collectors, antique vendors and craftsmen set up shop for the Dry Bridge Flea Market, a scavenger’s wonderland of Perestroika plunder. Soviet-era war medals, intricate porcelain tableware, traditional Caucasus rugs and silver jewelry — it can all be found here, hidden in plain sight amid the piles of salvaged clutter.

There’s a reason that Rooms Hotel (doubles from $200) has been on so many lists of must-visits for the past year. This Instagram-ready, industrial chic property, housed inside a former printing press, gets all the details — from décor to dining to dazzling art — exactly right.

At Vinotel (doubles from $130) , an intimate 13-room property modeled on a traditional Georgian home, an on-site wine cellar means the Saperavi grapes are always within reach, and a picturesque Old Town location puts Tbilisi’s top sights within stumbling distance.

If you do plan a trip to Tbilisi, check out these suggestions on what to pack for the trip from our colleagues at Wirecutter .

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: ​​Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

DIY Travel Guide to Tbilisi, Georgia [With Suggested Tours]

Do you want to travel to Tbilisi ? Here’s our DIY Travel Guide to Tbilisi , Georgia , with suggested tours.

The capital of Georgia (the country) is no other than Tbilisi. How to pronounce it? T-Bih-Lee-See. Repeat it 5 times so that you could get the hang of it. This lovely center is filled with gorgeous medieval-style architecture that will make you in awe. If you are here, this travel guide to Tbilisi, Georgia, will help you know what to do, where to stay, and where to eat.

• 7 Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in Georgia (the country)
• How To Get A Georgia E-Visa With Your Philippines Passport [Tourist Visa Guide For Georgia]
• Awesome Places To Explore in Georgia (Asia)
• List of the Best Hostels in Georgia

Table of Contents

Things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia

1. get lost on the cobble-stoned streets of old town.

Go to the heart of Tbilisi, the Old Town. With narrow streets and impressive buildings with different styles of architecture built centuries ago, you will appreciate the history and life of the Country. It is also home to many cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s definitely on our travel guide to Tbilisi, Georgia!

Suggested Tour: Tbilisi Old Town Walking Tour

2. Check out the gorgeous churches of Tbilisi

The most prevalent religion in the country is the Georgian Orthodox Church, one of the world’s oldest. One of its founders is the apostle Andrew. As it is one of the oldest in the country, you will see many Orthodox churches in Tbilisi. To name a few, they are Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi and Anchiskhati Basilica of St. Mary.

Suggested Tour: City Sightseeing and Wine Tasting Tour

3. Stroll the Narikala Fortress

Up above Old Town is a fortress built in the 4th century and expanded in the 7th, 16th, and 17th centuries. Ride a cable car to reach the top and get a view of the charming city. The best time to go is during the golden hour as the sunset makes the scenery more breathtaking.

Suggested Tour: Full-Day Tbilisi and Mtskheta Tour

4. Walk on the Bridge of Peace

Don’t worry, there are also modern structures in Tbilisi, and one of them is the Bridge of Peace. This pedestrian bridge opened in 2010, linking the Old Town to Rike Park. Fun fact: It’s nick-named “Always Ultra,” an American brand making napkins or maxi-pad as it’s said to resemble one.

Suggested Tour: Walking Tour with Lunch

5. Enjoy Mtatsminda Amusement Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mtatsminda Park (@mtatsmindapark)

An Amusement park is actually located on top of Mt. Mtatsminda, giving you another stunning view of Tbilisi. You will be riding a funicular up towards the mountain to start your adventure. There’s a giant Ferris Wheel, waters slides, roller coasters, and a Ghost castle! Who says Tbilisi is old and boring?

Suggested Tour: Private Walking and Driving Tour

Where to stay in Tbilisi, Georgia

Budget hotel.

Wine Symphony Boutique Hotel

Set in Tbilisi City, 6 km from Freedom Square, Wine Symphony Boutique Hotel offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a garden. The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the hotel, all rooms are equipped with a wardrobe and a private bathroom.

Price: Starts at USD 15 for a Standard Double Room

Mid-Range Hotel

Hotel Piazza

Located in the heart of the old city of Tbilisi, Hotel Piazza offers modern accommodation in a historical surrounding with monuments and beautiful traditional architecture. Every room comes with a flat-screen satellite TV, a work desk, and a minibar. They also offer a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Certain units feature views of the garden or city. Private bathrooms come with a shower.

Price: Starts at USD 40 for an Economy Double Room

Luxury Hotel

The Terrace Boutique Hotel

Featuring a tour desk, ticket service, and 24-hour front desk, The Terrace Hotel is situated in Tbilisi, 1 km from Rustaveli Metro Station. The rooms offer air conditioning, an electric kettle, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The bathrooms include a hairdryer, bidet, and free toiletries.

Price: Starts at USD 100 per night for a Standard Double Room

Where to Eat in Tbilisi, Georgia

Address: 2 Ingorokva Street

If you want some Georgian Food, then you can check out this restaurant. It’s a nice cozy restaurant with affordable food and friendly staff. The eggplant, bread, dumplings, and salad are highly recommended. They are many vegetarian-options here.

Address: G.Tabidze St., 11

In the middle of Old Town is another excellent Georgian Restaurant serving local cuisine and wine. You will find the atmosphere and place perfectly. Highly recommended are the Khachapuri (cheese bread), chicken, honey cake, and wine. You will indeed have a great lunch here!

Sormoni Meidan

Address: Gorgasali St. 3

Ending our travel guide to Tbilisi is the Sormoni Meidan Restaurant. It serves Eastern Europe, Barbecue, and Wine Bar with Vegan Options. It’s also located in Old Town and one of the favorites of locals and travelers. With a cozy atmosphere and delicious food, you would want to come here again and again.

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and I fell in love with the experience. I aim to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, taking pictures, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my Instagram .

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9 thoughts on “ DIY Travel Guide to Tbilisi, Georgia [With Suggested Tours] ”

Hi! What were the requirements asked by the immigration in the Philippines when you travelled to Georgia and Armenia?

what is you mode of you transportation going in other places? thanks

I am planning to visit your country this coming January but I don`t have your visa, credit card. Can I use my debit card or traveler’s check? if ever I need some information which airport do I port to? I am travel alone and diable cardholders. Do I need insurance for 5 days visit?

Hi! What month did you to Georgia? Thanks!

https://youtu.be/bntYLrDDniA (My youtube video blog on my trip to Armenia) I am from Philippines working in Dubai

Great article! We might follow yout ititnerary also for our Christmas trip. Btw, is it true that your need an invitation letter when you apply for your visa?

Can you please advise me if it’s okay to bring dirhams or should i bring USD?

Great info and guide! What month did you go? We are planning to go in october, is gudauri or ski resort open that time?

Tbilisi and Georgia really is one of our highlights of 2016. It really is an amazing place with so much amazing food. 🙂

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Things to do in Tbilisi: The Ultimate Tbilisi Travel Guide

“Where is Georgia?” I was asked more than once when I told my friends and family about my Tbilisi travel plans . “The country,” I had to explain, “shares borders with Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. Not too far from Dubai, only a three-hour flight.” I booked this trip very impulsively one afternoon, thanks to an affordable Flydubai flight and a growing sense of restlessness. It helped that as a UAE resident, I could get a 90-day visa-free entry. Then, with plenty of time to explore the city, I set about finding the coolest things to do in Tbilisi . 

When I first arrived in Tbilisi, I didn’t know what to expect and had done no research on what to do in Tbilisi. Unlike other, more well-planned trips, this time I only had a rough idea of the places I’d travel to within Georgia during my month in the country. But I found so many cool and interesting places to visit in Tbilisi, that I did not want to leave and ended up staying longer than planned.  

I spent about three weeks in Tbilisi, wandering tirelessly through its crumbling old town, looking up at intricately carved wooden balconies, ruined buildings with gaping walls and overgrowth, leafy lanes where artists sat painting, and many many churches, fuelled by nutritious churchkhela (Georgian candy) and warm potato bread from basement bakeries, whose aromas beckoning from street-level windows, were impossible to resist.

I explored the posh neighborhoods around Freedom Square and Rustaveli, joined the stylishly dressed locals to watch the Opera, and dined in fancy restaurants with ample enthusiastic toasting to good health and celebration. There was no lack of cool, interesting and quirky places to visit in Tbilisi. 

After I was done sightseeing in Tbilisi, I set about discovering life like a local. I stepped into places that didn’t have English menus, learned how to eat khinkali (steamed dumplings) the right way, and joined the locals to shop, not in the fancy stores along Rustaveli Avenue, but in the open subway market at Station Square. To work, I visited many cafés, some, with far more interesting décor than coffee, and to rest, I joined families, retirees, and, artists in the city’s many quiet parks.

I got to the point where I didn’t need to read the boards to know if I was taking the right metro and I knew exactly what I wanted to eat when I entered a restaurant. Thanks to a two-day trip to the Kakheti wine region , soon, I knew my Georgian wines well enough. I even found an indie theater where I watched a performance that seemed part-fantasy.

What I loved about Tbilisi, as I did about Georgia as a whole, was its ability to surprise me with something when I least expected it. The thing that stood out to me was the friendliness of the locals, who in spite of being used to tourists, are not bored, irritated, or indifferent. Chivalrous behavior, smiles, a warm greeting, and a genuine interest in others was the norm everywhere I went and I can say, without a doubt, that Georgia is the friendliest country I’ve been to .

Plan your Georgia Trip

• Browse hotels on Booking.com or Hotels.com
• Book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups
• Book tours and day trips with Get Your Guide
• Browse flights on Skyscanner 
• For digital nomads, SafetyWing Insurance is currently the best option

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi , I put together this very detailed Tbilisi travel guide with the very best things to do in Tbilisi, plus practical tips and information, so you can enjoy this city as much as I did.

What To Do in Tbilisi

There are plenty of interesting places to visit in Tbilisi , so don’t rush through the city in a day. Give it time, because Tbilisi is one of those cities that has so many layers to it and most tourists never get to the most fascinating parts because they’re rushing through. I spent around three weeks in the city and I still did not run out of things to do in Tbilisi,  perhaps because I wasn’t just interested in the very touristy activities, but also in the cool and somewhat quirky every day things. 

Explore the Old Town and the Best Places to Visit in Tbilisi

Tbilisi’s old town begins around the sulphur bathhouses in Abanotubani, under the shadow of the historic Narikala Fortress ruins and runs all the way to Freedom Square. Hidden in its labyrinth streets are monuments, churches, a mosque, museums, cafés, 19 th century houses, and buildings with gaping holes in their facades that have their own stories to tell.

There are regal balustrades and carved wooden balconies, and creepers and ivy that dress the faces of half-demolished buildings. There are old ladies with kind faces selling churchkhela and old men singing older Hindi movie songs in drunken stupor. Travel Tbilisi for even a day, preferably outside of the busy season and you begin to see that its charms are in the most unexpected of moments. 

There are children who call out to each other across the maze-like lanes and young women dressed in black dresses and impossibly-heeled black boots marching downhill with an urgent sense of purpose. And then, right next to you on benches, there are the retirees, taking it all in, this life that goes on around Tbilisi. Tbilisi’s old town is truly one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi- so I suggest starting your exploration of Tbilisi here. 

You can easily spend a leisurely day walking around the old town and stopping to rest by the river or at one of many quaint cafés. Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Church, Erekle Square, Gabriadze Theater (and its whimsical clock tower), Metekhi Church, and the Bridge of Peace are just some of the Tbilisi attractions and sights in the area. Alternatively, you can also do a hop-on, hop-off bus and boat tour around the main sights at your leisure.

Watch My Video: 48 Hours in Tbilisi

Ride up the cable car to the Narikala Fortress

Head across the Metekhi river to the same side as Avlabari metro station and ride the cable car from Rike Park all the way up to Narikala Fortress. Before you head to explore the ruins, walk along the ridge to pay your respects at Kartlis Deda, the 20m tall Mother of Georgia statue that was erected in 1958 and stands over Tbilisi like a guardian, welcoming friends with a cup of wine in one hand and enemies with a sword in the other.

The Narikala Fortress dates to the 4 th century with a large part built by the Arabs in the 7 th and 8 th centuries. Much of the damage to the fortress came from the 1827 explosion of Russian ammunitions stored here. Inside the complex, the Church of St Nicholas dates from the 12 th century and was rebuilt in 1996. The walls of the fortress offer panoramic views over Tbilisi but is broken in parts, so be careful of how far you climb up.

Relax in the Tbilisi Botanical Gardens

On your way back from Narikala Fortress, head into the lush, sanctuary-like Botanical Gardens complete with a waterfall, ponds, and a photogenic bridge. These gardens were formerly the city’s royal gardens and today, local families are seen relaxing around, especially on weekends and public holidays. It’s easy to spend a few leisurely hours here but remember to wear good walking shoes and bring a bottle of water. This isn’t a big tourist attraction, but a more laidback thing to do when you travel to Tbilisi. 

Soak in a Sulphur Bath at a Traditional Bathhouse

Tbilisi’s traditional sulphur bathhouses are located in the Abanotubani area of the Old Town and with their brick domes and stinky clouds of sulphur steam, are hardly difficult to find. They’re definitely one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi- both for their historic significance and the local experience. Just follow the smell of rotten eggs when you travel to Tbilisi’s old town. The city is located on sulphuric thermal springs and gets its name from them, Tbili- meaning warm.

Indulge in the centuries’ old tradition either at a public bathhouse, separated by gender but otherwise where you’d need to leave all your modesty behind and get in naked, or, at a more comfortable and pricier private bathhouse, where you can book a private bath, with an additional massage or scrub for yourself, or together with a friend or partner. Gulo’s Sulphur Spa comes highly recommended, even by locals, and if you want to know exactly what the experience is like, here is a detailed post by another travel blogger Ellie , who also shares tips on how to choose a bathhouse that is right for you.

Experience Drama, Theater, and Opera

Tbilisi has a lively and mature drama, theater, arts, and opera scene, and if you want to go beyond the tourist experience, it’s worth taking the time and planning in advance so you can see the cultural side of the city.

The  Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi on Rustaveli Avenue is a sight to behold, with its neo-Moorish architecture and was founded in 1851, making it one of the oldest opera houses in the region. It was recently renovated and now hosts internationally acclaimed opera, theater, and ballet performances. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Tbilisi. 

The easiest way to book a ticket and find out about the shows is to walk up to the ticket booth inside the opera house . We watched the acclaimed musical Carmen inside the grand opera house and enjoyed it. Not to mention that the price of tickets to watch opera, theater or ballet in Tbilisi is way more reasonable compared to other cities.

Along Rustaveli Avenue, and elsewhere around Tbilisi are several opera houses, many independent, and venues where the styles range from classic and contemporary to new age, underground and experimental.

I found myself in a daze, mesmerized by a larger-than-life production of music, song, dance, mimodrama and aerial acrobatics in an unassuming venue known as the Movement Theater , and if you can find tickets available online, I can only highly recommend it. There is also the Gabriadze Theater , a delight for lovers of puppetry and marionette. Info Tbilisi and Tbilisi Guide are some websites where you can find out more about theater listings and live entertainment.

Do a Wine-Tasting in Tbilisi

Georgia is the birthplace of wine after all, or so the Georgians claim and given how great the wine is, I believe them. If you’re a wine drinker traveling to Tbilisi, drinking lots of local wine should be high up on your list of things to do in Tbilisi.

Head to Vintage wine shop along Kote Aphkhazi St. in Tbilisi for a free wine tasting and to buy bottles of excellent wines from independent small producers.

While there are tons of wine shops offering free tastings in Tbilisi, the quality and the attitude of the staff really varies. After being thoroughly ignored by the staff at Vino Underground, I returned for a second time to Vintage where after a fun tasting session, we bought six bottles of wine from intense dry reds and semisweet reds to fruity whites.

The friendly staff here is really passionate about wine, well informed and eager to share that knowledge peppered with cultural context and interesting narratives. Most of all, they’re not in a rush to whisk you out and move onto the next customer or pushy to get you to buy a certain wine.

Of course, if you have an extra day, head an hour away to Signaghi, in the wine region of Kakheti to visit different wineries and do wine-tastings outside of the city.

Watch a Dinner Show in Tbilisi

If this is your first time to Tbilisi, you absolutely must do a dinner show with traditional dancing and music . Yes, it sounds like a typical tourist attraction in Tbilisi, but this is one experience you will love and look back at fondly, provided you do it at the right place.

When you see that local families are out celebrating at what might otherwise be a touristy experience, it is a good sign. There are many restaurants in Tbilisi that offer dinner with a traditional show and out of the two that I tried, I loved In the Shadow of Metekhi , so that’s the one I’ll recommend.

Ankit and I watched in fascination as talented Georgian artists twirled and pranced to the music and a group of singers broke into a soulful ballad over mouth-watering local dishes and wine at In The Shadow of Metekhi . The hours passed by quickly and before we knew it we were dancing (yes, in the restaurant) in a circle with members of a Georgian dinner party of 20 that was out celebrating a special occasion. The service was outstanding as was the food. Reservations are essential and recommended four to five days in advance.

Take a Day Trip From Tbilisi

If you’re only visiting for a weekend or a few days, I highly recommend doing one or more day trips from Tbilisi . Luckily, there are some amazing landscapes, fascinating monasteries and an incredible wine region, a short drive from Tbilisi, that can easily be visited on a day trip.

This great value-for-money day trip in the wine region of Kakheti and the restored town of Sighnaghi  combines sightseeing, visiting David Gareji monastery, and wine tasting and tours.

If you don’t have enough time to visit the mountainous region of Svaneti, definitely do a day trip to Kazbegi , to see snow-clad mountains and enjoy fantastic views over Mount Kazbeg, paraglide and visit the ski resort of Gudauri in winter.

A day trip to Mtskheta and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is one of the most popular day trips from Tbilisi.

You can also visit the Prometheus Caves, 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati monastery on a day trip from Tbilisi.

Shopping in Tbilisi

If you plan to do some shopping while in Tbilisi, here is what I think you should buy and where to get it:

Tbilisi Travel Tips: Where to Go for Souvenirs and Quirky Finds

Tribal jewelry, vinyl records, old briefcases, gramophones, saxophones, Soviet-era silver cutlery, ornate plates, classic timepieces, hunting knives, instant cameras, camera lenses, and fake Ray Bans lie sprawled along one side of the Dry Bridge Market in Tbilisi, a treasure trove of quirky and vintage finds and stuff from everyone’s grandma’s house. If you’re into that sort of thing, then the Dry Bridge Market is one of the quirkiest places to visit in Tbilisi. 

With a love for flea markets that borders on obsession, I visited the market four times and each time found something interesting to look at or buy.

The souvenirs here and in the artists’ park (just under the bridge) are cheaper than elsewhere in Tbilisi and some, hand painted, are unique and more value for money. The scarves, fridge magnets, art, and trinkets here make for good gifts and souvenirs.

The market is open from 10am to 6pm and is busier on Sundays. To avoid disappointment, don’t come here around closing time or on national holidays.

Tbilisi Travel Tips: Where to find Art & Crafts

If you want to take home a beautiful piece of art from Tbilisi , shop around at the park just under the Dry Bridge Market and along the bohemian neighborhood of Shavteli Street leading upto the Gabriadze Theater. On weekends, you’ll see artists painting on the streets with their pieces on display on the walls behind them.

There are beautiful landscapes of the Georgian countryside, interesting pieces that draw from street scenes in Tbilisi, and some pieces crafted in wood. Ask for permission before taking photos and always pay compliments if you really like something, even if you do not plan to buy; the artists are usually the ones selling as well.

Tbilisi Travel Tips: Shopping for Clothes and Footwear

Seeing as I had my ankle-high winter boots that served me well while part-walking part-sinking through a concoction of cow-dung, mud, and snow on the slushy streets of Ushguli in Svaneti and hiking in Mestia , I hadn’t carried an alternate pair of walking shoes for warmer days in Tbilisi. Luckily, Tbilisi is a cheap city to shop in and soon, in a shoe store in the underground subway at Freedom Square, I found the perfect shoes; a pair of lightweight and smart black Oxfords that made me blend in (all the Georgian women were wearing them).

On a local’s tip I went to the subway market at Station Square (just outside Tbilisi Central Railway Station) and was surprised to see a huge market of shoes, clothes, and leather jackets. It’s a local market mainly for women, English isn’t widely spoken, sizes are not standard (so try before you buy), and haggling is the norm. But if you’re into shopping on a budget, this is a must go-to place to visit in Tbilisi. 

Which is the Best Month to Visit Georgia (and Tbilisi)?

Summer can be very hot and harsh in Georgia, so I’d choose to come either in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) that is in my opinion, the best time to visit Tbilisi. Winters are quite cold, snowy and road closures are common. 

Tbilisi is rightly getting a lot of attention at the moment as Tbilisi tourism is booming . If you didn’t already know, Tbilisi is wildly popular with travelers in the Middle East (and cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat and Riyadh) as a preferred destination for short breaks, long weekends and public holidays . I met four other people I knew in Dubai while simply strolling around Tbilisi during an Eid holiday. So if you’re visiting Tbilisi during one of these times, expect crowds.

That said, when I arrived in Tbilisi in late March, early April, it was not so crowded, and it was cold with sunny days (that I much prefer over hot summer days), so for me, that was perfect to explore. There was still plenty of snow in Gudauri, Kazbegi and Svaneti, so if you plan to hike around in Georgia, maybe best to come in May . 

Does it snow in Tbilisi Georgia?

It rarely ever snows in Tbilisi, even in December- January, but it does snow in places like Gudauri, Kazbegi and Svaneti. So if you’re looking for white snowy landscapes in winter, head out of Tbilisi to higher altitudes. When I visited in April, there was still plenty of snow in Kazbegi, Gudauri, as well as Mestia and Ushguli in Svaneti.

How to Get to Tbilisi

Visit tbilisi by air.

If you’re flying to Georgia from abroad, you’ll arrive in one of three international airports in either Tbilisi, Kutaisi or Batumi . Several airlines fly to Georgia and these include flydubai (affordable flights from Dubai, flying direct), Air Arabia, Turkish Airlines, Gulf Air and others.

To get to Tbilisi city from the Tbilisi International Airport:

• A taxi should cost about 30 -50 GEL ($11-19) (depending on the meter) and is available just outside the Arrival Hall. The journey to the city center should be about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
• The public bus route number 37 from Tbilisi airport to Tbilisi city center is available 24/7 and costs just 0.50GEL ($0.18) one-way. The bus stop is just outside the Arrival Hall. 
• The train to Tbilisi central railway station is one of the cheapest public transportation options from the airport to the city and costs just 0.50GEL ($0.18) one-way . The airport railway station is just a few minutes walk from the arrivals area, and you can buy tickets when you get there.
• If you’re a couple or a group, this private airport transfer might be more convenient and good value-for-money.

If you arrive in Kutaisi and want to get to Tbilisi:

•  You can either take the train ( see schedule and book tickets here )  that takes just under five hours, or take a marshrutka (minibus) that takes almost four hours.
• Georgian Bus operates transfers from Kutaisi International Airport to Tbilisi , and you can either book tickets online in advance or when you arrive.
• Otherwise, head to Kutaisi bus station and take one of these buses to Tbilisi (or elsewhere in Georgia) .

If you arrive in Batumi and want to get to Tbilisi:

• You can either take the train ( schedule and book tickets here )that takes about five hours or take a bus or minibus (slowest).
• Metro Georgia operates buses from Batumi to Tbilisi , you can see schedules online and book tickets as well before you arrive .
• You can also fly from Batumi to Tbilisi if you’re short on time but that will be a pricier option. 

Also visiting Batumi? Here are the best things to do in Batumi . 

Visit Tbilisi By Road

If you’re coming from Armenia or Azerbaijan , the other two destinations in the Caucasus region that a lot of people visit when they’re visiting Georgia, you can also arrive by road or train .

• If you’re arriving from Yerevan, Armenia to Tbilisi, you can either come by bus (that takes five and a half hours) or by train ( Train No. 372 on the South Caucasus Railway ) that takes over ten hours but is cheaper. If you’d rather come by bus, check schedules and book tickets here . 
• If you’re coming from Baku, Azerbaijan to Tbilisi, you can come either by bus or by train. Train no. 38 takes quite long at over 12 hours, schedules and tickets are available here .   There are also buses from Baku International Bus Terminal to Tbilisi, they take over 11 hours and schedules and tickets are available here . 

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

When in Tbilisi, apartments are the smarter and more affordable choice versus hotels . During my trip, I stayed in four different apartments and one hotel (for just one night) and it was easy to see that apartments offered far greater value for money.

I found my apartments through Airbnb and Hotels Combined and found that they were of similar quality. If you join using Airbnb using this link , you’ll get $25 credit to use on your first booking.

A good thing to know about staying in Tbilisi is that a lot of the buildings, even residential ones, are in a state of part disrepair. It’s not unusual for buildings to have one or two broken façades or walls with ongoing construction or repairs. I joked that the sound of Tbilisi is, “thud thud thud,” because that’s the constant sound you can hear through the paper-thin walls during the day (never in the evening so you can sleep soundly).

But once you get over the appearance of the buildings and enter the apartments, you’ll see that they seem new and styles range from classic, elegant, cute, vintage grandma, quirky, and artistic to luxe. Every place I stayed at was modern, comfortable, and had a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, kettle, pots and pans, and cutlery.

Search for Accommodation in Tbilisi

The apartments were always clean and hosts were extra nice and always available to help. The apartments usually have hot water, an AC, a heater, TV and free WiFi. Hosts are ready to help you with taxi and transport bookings, and can also arrange tours for you around the country.

Lastly, from my experience traveling as a solo female, apartments are safe- the buildings are residential and there are other locals and families living there.

Here are the places that stood out to me and are worth recommending:

Falcon Apartments- Rustaveli

Blue doors apartment, apartment rustaveli tbilisi, traveling to tbilisi & looking for the best neighborhoods to stay in tbilisi as a tourist.

I stayed both in the old town, near the sulphur baths in Abanotubani and in the newer part of the city, on and around Rustaveli. I’d recommend looking for something along Kote Apkhazi, the main street running through the old town, or the streets parallel to it, around squares like Meidan Square, Erekle Square, Freedom Square, along Rustaveli Avenue or the streets branching off or parallel to it. The area around 9 th of April Park and the neighborhood of Sololaki are also great and close to the metro.

The tourist sights are located here and there are great cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and pubs around, as well as three metro stations to get anywhere (Rustaveli, Freedom Square, and Avlabari). Taxis are also easily available here at all times of the day or night.

What and Where to Eat in Tbilisi

Meals in Georgia are more like feasts, even if you’re ordering for one. When you’re eating with people, the dishes on the table are usually to share. The portions are generous, the cuisine is flavorsome, the cheese is rich and abundant, the service is impeccable, the wine is intense, and the toasts, well, they’re endless.

If you’re someone who likes to eat their way around places, you’ll love being in Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia because Georgian food is absolutely delicious. You’ll return home with love handles as solid evidence of just how rich this cuisine, that blends the flavors of Asia, the Middle East, Balkans, and Mediterranean, really is. 

From the wildly popular national dish khachapuri , a large round bread generously topped or filled with cheese or cheese, butter, and a raw egg, or a meat stew or creamy spinach and khinkali , Georgian dumplings filled with meat, potatoes, or cheese, to lobio, a stew of kidney beans, onions, and herbs that provides steaming comfort in the colder climes of Svaneti, here is a detailed post about what to eat in Georgia , and I suggest you use it to get oriented with the cuisine.

While wandering around Tbilisi, you are sure to spot churchkhela, this candle-like Georgian candy is sold for as low as 3GEL a piece on the streets and in shops. The candy is made of dried grape juice thickened with flour and is filled with nuts (like walnut, almond, hazelnut etc) and just one can fill you up with energy for hours.

Buy it fresh from the ladies in the street, ask them to remove the thread in the center and cut it into little pieces so you can carry it around and share.

Tbilisi Travel Practical Information: Where to Eat in Tbilisi

Over two weeks, I tried many places and returned to some that became my favorites for the food, service, value for money, and the ambience. The quality of food served in most restaurants in Tbilisi is high and you have to be really unlucky to have a bad meal, especially if you go with local choices on the menu. By all means, make your own discoveries and walk into places that appeal to you but feel free to use my recommendations as a starting point.

Machakhela has a few different branches around Tbilisi, but it’s probably easiest to get to the one behind the big I Love Tbilisi sign in the old town next to the sulpur baths.

Favorite dishes: Kebabs (try the salmon or meat), Pkhali and Badrijani Nigvzit.

Pasanauri is a simple restaurant that seems to be quite popular with locals gorging on khinkali. There are a few branches around Tbilisi. 

Favorite dishes: Khinkali and Kebabs

Friend’s House

Friend’s House Restaurant and Bar became my go-to place for dinner on Erekle Square because not only was the ambience great with live music downstairs and a saxophonist in the outdoors section, it was much more reasonably-priced than its neighbors, the food was excellent, and the service was attentive. I even took a group of new friends here and re-visited with a friend who spontaneously booked a weekend trip to Tbilisi while I was there and with Ankit when he joined me for four days.

Favorite dishes:

Chicken Shkmeruli, Satsivi, Mushrooms in Sulguni, and Chakhokhbili

KGB is a casual restaurant in Erekle Square that does Georgian cuisine with a modern flair and the slightly high prices are worth it for the good food.

Favorite dishes: Kebabs (to die for) and Chicken in red wine.

Café Gabriadze

Ankit and I enjoyed our anniversary dinner at the quaint, aesthetically designed restaurant Cafe Gabriadze by the Gabriadze theater that does a modern, creative spin on Georgian cuisine that delivers on taste, service, and ambience. Dining here makes you feel like a character in a film about the golden era of Georgian theater as you move about the different dining rooms and lounge areas of the house. Not only is this restaurant recommended for its food, it’s also one of the more beautiful places to visit in Tbilisi, right next to the quirky clock tower in the old town. 

Favorite dishes: Cotleta and Mtsvadi

This Georgian coffee chain has a few different locations in Tbilisi but the Coffeesta on 52, Rustaveli Avenue, close to Rustaveli metro station is my favorite. Head here for breakfast and don’t forget to try their vanilla or chocolate cream and almond croissants, they’re just irresistible.

Where to Drink in Tbilisi: Cafes and Bars in Tbilisi

Tbilisi nightlife options range from cute or quirky artsy cafés with vintage décor, and edgy bars where tattooed teenagers with goth make-up drink and dance to a trendy dive bar perfect for drinks over live music and conversation and clubs where silhouettes sway to techno music, lost in smoky anonymity.

I’ve included some of the places that I found and liked in this Tbilisi travel guide because when it comes to nightlife in Tbilisi, you can never really say about the bars and clubs- sometimes a place with promising reviews might be full of teenagers on a certain night. I for one, am too old for that kinda thing.

Café Linville

Tbilisi is home to eclectic, artsy cafés where people go during the day to drink cocktails, wine, or coffee. One such place is Café Linville that might remind you of your grandma’s house with vintage décor, floral wallpaper, and old-fashioned lamps. It’s perfect for intimate conversation, taking a break during the day, or simply sipping wine as you write or read.

DiveXFabrika

DiveXFabrika in the premises of the popular Fabrika Hostel in Tbilisi is one of the coolest bars in the city and is buzzing with 20 and 30-something hostel residents, expats, and tourists, as well as locals. The ambience is casual and relaxed and there’s a large selection of local craft beers.

An underground techno club underneath the Soviet-era Dinamo Stadium, stepping into Bassiani is like entering a whole other world, far from the Tbilisi of the conservative and religious; where people seem like ghosts hypnotized by techno and floating through a realm of smoke and shadows. Bassiani holds a number of LGBTQ-friendly events in a country that still battles homophobia. If you’re a techno fan or just curious like us, it’s worth visiting but remember to call in advance- it’s only open one night a week. Here’s an interesting piece on Vice about Bassiani’s activist role in modern-day Tbilisi.

Tbilisi Travel Tips

Exchanging money in tbilisi.

Georgia’s currency is the Georgian Lari or GEL and one lari is divided into 100 tetri. While most big places, especially in the cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi will accept cards, and you’ll find ATMs easily, make sure you have enough cash for eating at smaller restaurants or buying things from markets, shops and flea markets. 

When you head into smaller towns and villages such as those in Svaneti, ATMs might not be readily available and not many places will accept card payments, so definitely bring some cash. 

You can exchange USD and Euros at the airport, banks and will also find slightly better rates at small money exchange offices in Tbilisi city center. 

How to Dress in Tbilisi

Tbilisi locals love black and I’m glad I packed a lot of black, neutral, and navy pieces for my trip. That’s not to say you can’t wear fuchsia or yellow but you’re more likely to stand out in a sea of dark, neutral, and earthy tones. The general style is smart and practical, think fitted denims with t-shirts, tops, or shirts, and sundresses, sometimes paired with a jacket or cardigan (depending on the weather). Spaghetti straps, mini-skirts, and hot shorts? Not so much except for the tourists.

You’ll be walking a lot on the city’s cobbled hilly streets , so bring comfortable, lightweight walking shoes or sandals plus a nicer pair for going out.

For formal dinners where you can watch a traditional dance show while you dine and if you plan on watching any theater or opera, carry something that’s semi-formal at the least, as many restaurants have a no-ripped jeans and sneakers policy. Locals at such venues are generally smartly dressed and you don’t want to look like the oddball tourist who showed up in their North Face jacket.

Men should pack a pair of pants, one or two shirts, and a semi-formal blazer or jacket, and a pair of formal shoes . Women should bring an elegant dress or top to pair with trousers or fitted dark wash jeans and pretty shoes .

You will be visiting orthodox churches and monasteries when you visit Tbilisi, where you’ll need to have y our head (women only), shoulders, arms, and knees covered . So dress appropriately and women should use the spare headscarves and wraparound skirts placed outside churches for visitors.

Winter can get really cold in Tbilisi. When I visited in April, there were some chilly and windy days when the temperature dropped by 10-12 degrees Celsius from the previous day. I was grateful for my all-weather North Face Suzanne jacket that comes with multiple layers that can be zipped on and off. On warmer days, I simply zipped off the warm shell and the quilted layer that was left wasn’t only perfect weather-wise but also looked great to wear around the city.

How to Get Around in Tbilisi

Getting around in Tbilisi is really easy, thanks to easy and cheap taxis (only 5GEL anywhere within the city center, downtown and the old city), an excellent metro system , and lovely walk-able streets that connect most of the tourist interest places to visit in Tbilisi.

For the metro, it’s best to buy the Metromoney Card for 2GEL that you can recharge (for as much as you like) to use while traveling by metro or the local bus. You get discounted rates on all transportation versus if you were to buy point-to-point tickets without the card. When you leave Tbilisi, you can return the card at any metro station and get back your 2GEL.

It’s an easy and leisurely walk between the old town, Freedom Square, and Rustaveli , but if you don’t want to walk, there is the metro and several buses.

To get to the city from the airport a taxi should cost about 25-30 GEL (at the time of writing) or ask about the bus to the city. If you’re a couple or a group, this private airport transfer might be more convenient and good value-for-money.

Travel Tbilisi Essentials

Visa for georgia.

Some nationalities can travel to Georgia visa free, while others may be granted visa on arrival. Yet for other nationalities (depending also on where they are resident), it is recommended to obtain the visa from a Georgian embassy in advance. You can check conditions of visa for your nationality here . There is also an e-visa portal , but before you apply, check that you’re eligible depending upon your nationality. 

As an Indian national who is a UAE resident , I was eligible for a visa on arrival in Georgia , and had no problems getting this with a return ticket and apartments booked, as well as travel insurance that was mandatory to travel to Georgia (the airline asked for this at check-in). Still, as visa rules can and do change frequently, and there have been some mixed reports about travelers facing issues at Tbilisi passport control, I suggest checking the requirements online and calling or emailing a Georgian embassy closest to you to confirm.

Travel Insurance for Georgia

During my visit in 2017, travel insurance was mandatory to enter Georgia. Anyway, I never travel without travel insurance because you never know what might go wrong on the road- accidents may happen, or you might seriously fall ill and need medical help that can be costly abroad. Wherever you’re going and no matter for how long, I always suggest getting travel insurance .

How to get a SIM Card in Tbilisi?

Tourism in Tbilisi is booming at the moment, so it’s really easy for tourists to get a Georgian SIM Card at the Arrivals Hall at Tbilisi airport . There are three companies selling tourist SIM cards at the airport- Geocell, Magti and Beeline with different offerings when it comes to calls and data. I mainly use data, but need to be able to make some international and local calls as well, so I went with Magti. But you can choose from the three depending on what you need.

Magti and Beeline reportedly have better coverage – that might be important if you’re visiting the mountains in Kazbegi or Svaneti or traveling elsewhere outside of the big cities. If you’re just interested in data, then Beeline turns out to be the cheapest with their data packages. If you’re looking for a bit of international and local calls, as well as decent data , then pick Magti . 

Languages Spoken in Tbilisi

The languages spoken in Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia are Georgian and Russian , as well as English . If you don’t speak any Russian or Georgian, don’t worry- Georgia sees a lot of tourists and English is widely spoken in Tbilisi and other cities . I had no problems communicating in English even in Mestia and other villages in Svaneti. 

If you find yourself confused by Georgian signs or schedules, just ask a local for help. Whether or not they speak any English, they will definitely find a way to help you because like I said before, the Georgians are extraordinarily kind. 

Useful Georgian phrases to know

Here are some nice Georgian phrases to know so you can interact with the locals, something I highly recommend doing. Speaking a bit of Georgian brings a smile to their faces.

• Hello- Gamarjoba (ga-mar-jo-ba)
• Thank you- Madloba (mad-lo-ba)
• Please- Tu Sheidzleba (tu-she-id-zle-ba)
• Goodbye- Nakhvamdis (Na-khvam-dis)
• Cheers- Gaumarjos (Gau-mar-jos)

Is Tbilisi Safe?

I visited Tbilisi solo and spent most of my time there alone. I stayed in apartments alone, both in slightly run down buildings in the old town, as well as somewhat nicer ones in the newer parts of the city. I walked home alone late at night from bars and restaurants, and took taxis as well. 

Not once did I feel unsafe or alarmed , or like I had to look over my shoulder. As with any other place that sees a lot of tourists, I’d be careful about my stuff in overly crowded places, but otherwise there is nothing to worry about, even as a solo woman.

To share an example of how well I felt taken care of, I’ll tell you about the time I took the overnight train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi to get to Mestia in Svaneti . I was in a compartment of four, and as is the case when I travel solo on overnight trains, I hoped I’d not be in the company of three other men (would make me uncomfortable, especially if they were too chatty or something, luckily that has never happened). I shared the compartment with an older woman and two young men. 

When the ticket inspector came and said something to me in Georgian, the lady who didn’t speak any English told him something, pointed to my ticket and sent him on his way. She also got me a blanket and pillow sleeping set when I did not know where to get it. One of the two young men, very chivalrously, carried my bag off the train and across a small section of tracks, without me asking, and placed it on to the platform with a gentelman-ly, “Good day”. 

Especially in Svaneti, people were very helpful, and I’d say even somewhat protective of me traveling solo as a woman. 

To answer the question, yes, if you’re going to visit Tbilisi, you should know that Tbilisi is very safe and if you’re a woman traveling alone, you will be more than fine here and elsewhere in Georgia. 

Have you been to Tbilisi? Don’t forget to try the amazing food , and read about my experience traveling there as an Indian .

Visiting Georgia? You might want to read this guide to Georgian visas and might be interested in these posts:

Ultimate Guide to Tbilisi: Things to do, where to stay, eat, shop and practical information

Best Things to do in Batumi

Don’t Miss The Food in Georgia: What To Eat

Traveling Around Georgia as an Indian

If you have been, I’d love to hear what you thought of it or if you would like to go. Would you add any other places to visit in Tbilisi to this list?

Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you book tours or accommodation using them, I get a small commission, at no extra cost to you, that goes towards running this site. That said, I never recommend accommodation or tours that I haven’t booked or wouldn’t book myself, and spend a considerable amount of time to find the best deals and value-for-money tours and accommodation rates. I have stayed at two out of three apartments mentioned in this post.

Tuesday 10th of September 2019

a very useful blog and thank you. I visited in late August for the rugby game. A couple of things to add, if I may? Beeline's coverage in Tbilisi was flawless, I didn't have an issues with it at all. Friends House is an excellent little restaurant :-) Tbilisi is very hot in late August. A few words of Georgian and a warm smile go a long way in Georgia. Such friendly people if you put a little effort in! Thanks again for the blog!

Thursday 27th of September 2018

Hi! Had been to georgia recently and after careful planning and research on various blogs, I stumbled across yours once, and I must say it was worth it, really gave me a precise insight from my stay to the food and entertainment, I could literally visualize georgia through your blog and was going gaga over it, and couldn't wait to experience it, I literally covered all places mentioned and more. Can't wait to get back during winters and experience the same!! Thanks for the great info

Wednesday 14th of March 2018

Would you recommend a self-drive road trip or a chauffeur driven around Georgia? Budget is also in play.

Thanks Pravin

Natasha Amar

Georgia isn't too expensive if you decided to hire a car with driver, how many days and where do you plan to go? Or you could always take public transport- to places like sighnaghi, kazbegi, I took a local overnight train and mashrutka all the way to svaneti, it was of a good standard, cheap and easy to arrange.

Monday 8th of January 2018

This is such a fantastic, comprehensive guide.

Carl Wright

Saturday 6th of January 2018

Loved the fact that you lived life there like a local, from cuisine to bazaars, this is tremendous.

Thanks for reading!

12 things to know before traveling to Georgia

Jun 26, 2024 • 5 min read

Plan your trip to Georgia with these tips © Yumi mini / iStock / Getty Images Plus

With its beautiful but rugged mountain ranges, rich culture and Soviet past, Georgia once had a reputation as a challenging travel destination loved by intrepid backpackers. Luckily, it could hardly be easier to visit Georgia these days, and it’s no coincidence that much of the country’s economy is now based on tourism. 

I’ve been visiting Georgia for more than 20 years, and I’ve seen the country transform almost beyond recognition in many respects, while also remaining reassuringly familiar in others. Few countries can boast the charms that win Georgia so many converts among first-time visitors , and it’s rare not to hear people raving about the country after finally getting to visit. Here are a few of the tips I frequently find myself sharing with those about to discover the delights of the country locals call Saqartvelo.

1. Give yourself plenty of time to explore 

Georgia appears small on a map, leading some first-time visitors to assume it can be seen in just a few days. But due to a combination of mountainous terrain and infrastructural shortcomings, that’s not the case — travel times between regions are significant. Budget at least three full days to explore the capital,  Tbilisi , while I’d recommend spending at least a full week in the country to explore some of the best places to visit in Georgia . Internal flights to the mountains allow you to save a day’s driving in each direction if you are very pressed for time.

2. Pack clothes for all climates

The summer can be stiflingly hot in the lowlands, but as soon as you reach any altitude, let alone the High Caucasus themselves, the temperature plummets and you’ll need a fleece and jacket, even in July. Georgia is generally very relaxed about how people dress, with the only exception being in churches, where skin is best not exposed and where women are expected to cover their heads or don (church-provided) wrap skirts to cover up their pants.

3. Be prepared for some rough roads if you’re driving

Any experienced driver who has driven abroad before should feel fine taking the wheel here. Georgia’s roads have improved immeasurably in the past 20 years, and the vast majority are now sealed, though they remain predominantly single-lane, frequently studded with potholes, and lacking in markings or lighting at night. Nowadays it’s only the famously daunting road to Tusheti that should only be attempted by confident drivers in 4WD vehicles. 

4. Locals give far better advice than apps about driving routes

You may be used to having your apps decide what route you take between two given points at home, but Georgia is not somewhere to entrust your journey to a tech giant. While apps are often very helpful, you should always ask locals before setting out on a long car journey, as what your app might not be able to tell you is how good the road it recommends is or even how surfaced it is. Often in the South Caucasus, it pays to take the more circuitous route!

5. Keep an eye out for sheepdogs in the mountains

Sheepdogs in the Caucasus are bred to be fierce and can potentially be dangerous, so give them a wide berth when hiking in the mountains and carry a stick if possible. For this reason, when walking in the mountains, do also avoid walking too closely to herds of livestock – even if you can’t see a sheepdog, one may suddenly appear from nowhere, which might be an unpleasant surprise.

6. Be aware of political sensitivities

While speaking Russian can be very useful with older people who are unlikely to speak English, do bear in mind that to many younger people, it’s considered a colonial relic imposed on the country by an empire that continues to occupy around 20% of Georgia’s sovereign territory. The breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia (to which many governments advise against all travel ) are both emotive issues for Georgians, so broach them delicately if you want to ask locals for their views on the subject.  

7. Take it easy on the chacha

Georgia’s far stronger version of grappa, chacha is the national drink and you’ll almost certainly run into it during your visit. While commercially produced varieties are around 40% proof, homebrews can be twice as strong, so do genuinely proceed with caution when you inevitably find yourself handed a glass. 

8. Don’t toast with beer 

Georgians only toast their enemies with beer, so make sure you have a glass of wine or chacha to hand if you’re lucky enough to attend a traditional Georgian feast, or supra  (dinner party). Toasts, which are elaborate and usually led by a specially selected toast giver (tamada) , have their own myriad rules, but it’s easy enough to follow along and just drink when everybody else does.

9. Rural areas can be very conservative 

Spend a weekend in Tbilisi and you might come away with a rather unrepresentative sense of just how progressive Georgians are. A trip to a remote area, particularly the mountains, will soon even things out. While the people are delightful and welcoming, there’s no denying that the patriarchy still looms large in rural areas and attitudes that some may consider old-fashioned remain common. If you’re not married and don’t have kids, be prepared to field some fairly direct questions about why on earth you don’t.

10. Drink bottled water in the lowlands

The water in the mountains is generally of excellent quality and perfectly safe to drink, but it’s always safest to drink the bottled variety, which is plentiful and very cheap, in the lowlands, particularly in bigger cities. On the plus side, this does at least give you plenty of chances to try Georgia’s much-loved and unique mineral water Borjomi. 

11. Use Tbilisi’s underpasses to cross busy roads 

The Georgian capital is not a great place for crossing the road, particularly along Rustaveli, Tbilisi’s busy main avenue. Luckily, dozens of underpasses allow you to cross the road safely — it’s wise to use them, as one look at the febrile traffic situation is likely to confirm.

12. In big cities, a small tip will be appreciated 

Hot on the heels of international tourism, tipping has now well and truly arrived in Georgia, though it’s still limited to Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi for the most part. In general, leaving a 10% cash tip when you’ve had good service is appropriate in mid-range and top-end restaurants, but not always expected. Do be aware that tips left on credit cards are unlikely to make their way into the hands of your server, though.

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Wander-Lush

Tbilisi in Autumn: 15 Colourful Things to Do + Fall Travel Tips

Discover all the best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn , including special events and celebrations, fall foliage in the city centre, seasonal food and wine, and the best autumn day trips.

While there’s no ‘wrong’ time to visit Tbilisi , I have to admit that summer is my least favourite time of year in the city. The heat is unbearable, the air is thick, and the light is far too harsh for photography.

As soon as September rolls around, the mercury starts to slide and the air clears. That’s my queue to lace up my shoes and grab my camera. By the middle of the month, Tbilisi is absolute paradise!

Autumn in Tbilisi is short but pronounced. The trees along the riverside and in the city’s parks turn shades of bronze and chestnut, while the hills take on a honey-coloured glow. This is the perfect time to get out and explore on foot.

In early fall, there are numerous outdoor events – markets, live music performances and the like – happening almost every weekend. Add to that special festivals, seasonal produce and the Rtveli wine harvest , and there’s no doubt in my mind these are Tbilisi’s golden days.

Here are 15 of my favourite Tbilisi autumn activities for September, October and November . I’ve also included a bit of information about the weather, what to wear and what to pack, and general fall travel tips.

→ Don’t miss my guide to visiting Georgia in autumn , including the 10 best places around the country for fall colours, festivals and harvest celebrations.

→ Also see my complete month-by-month guide to seasons in Georgia .

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Looking for the perfect autumn day trip from Tbilisi? Here are my top 5 recommendations:

• Harvest experience in Kakheti with Eat This! Tours. Mention Wander-Lush and get 5% off.
• Off-road tour to David Gareja Monastery & the rainbow mountains. Perfect for autumn hiking.
• Vardzia, Rabati & Borjomi day tour. For fall colours & spectacular scenery.
• Private tour of ancient Mtskheta. Autumn is an auspicious time of year as the city celebrates Svetitskhovloba on October 14.
• Day trip to Kvemo Kartli region. Canyons & fall foliage near Tbilisi. Use the promo code wanderlush to get 10% off.

15 special things to do in Tbilisi in autumn

→ Discover more quirky and unique things to do in Tbilisi at any time of year in my extensive city guide.

1. Celebrate Tbilisoba, Georgia’s biggest festival

Taking place in early October (normally the first weekend of the month), Tbilisoba is the biggest event on Georgia’s cultural calendar . The capital’s very own ‘day of’ festival celebrates all things Tbilisi while shining a light on the regions as well. If you’re lucky enough to be in town while it’s on, you can experience the whole of Georgia in an afternoon.

The cornerstone of the festival is food. Farmers and producers from around the country descend on Rike Park for a huge Gastronomic Festival, which showcases the cream of autumn crops, wine, and regional food specialties such as artisanal cheese.

The last time Tbilisoba took place there was also an Autumn Flower Festival and a vintage car show on Metekhi Bridge. Outdoor stages dispersed around the Old Town host folk dance, orchestra, big band and theatre performances, giving the whole city an outdoor music festival vibe (peak levels of public cha cha consumption guaranteed).

Tbilisoba is completely free to attend. Dates are typically announced a few weeks out. In 2023, the festival will be held over the September 30-October 1 weekend.

2. Stroll along the riverside

If you want to see some of Tbilisi’s finest fall regalia while taking in the city’s major landmarks, head down to the river.

Both sides of the Mtkvari feature wide pedestrian-only footpaths that are perfect for strolling. Just take care when crossing the busy highway. Go in the early morning or around lunch time when there’s less traffic on the roads.

I particularly love walking down the stretch of riverside between Marjanishvili Bridge and Saarbrucken Bridge. If you stick to the Left Bank, you’ll get a picture-perfect view of both the Public Services Hall, and the gold-topped Sameba Cathedral and Bridge of Peace in the distance, framed by the beautiful Baratashvili Bridge.

Spectacular river views can also be found from the Peace Bridge, where the vignette includes fall trees in Rike Park. The fall colours linger until at least the start of November.

3. Go leaf peeping in the city centre

If you visit Tbilisi during spring or summer you’ll no doubt be left with the impression that this is a very green city. In autumn, the many parks and green spaces offer the opportunity to see fall colours right in the centre – not just along the river, but also back in the Old Town and outer suburbs.

Even driving around Tbilisi in autumn is a pleasure. Many of the main streets are lined with deciduous trees that shed their leaves in late October/November. On the outskirts of the city, you’ll find heavily forested hills where fall arrives a little earlier, from late September onwards.

Where to see fall colours in Tbilisi:

• Botanical Garden
• Kojori (near Tbilisi)

4. Enjoy Old Tbilisi without the crowds

While Tbilisi remains a popular destination throughout the year, it is significantly quieter in the centre of the city during late autumn especially. From the end of September through to November you can often wander down a quiet backstreet and not see another soul.

As you crisscross the city you’ll see shrivelled grapes still hanging from the vine, golden-coloured creepers, and facades festooned with fall foliage. There’s something about the combination of autumn shades and Tbilisi’s blue balconies and old architecture that is particularly charming.

Meanwhile, popular spots such as the Clocktower and the Dry Bridge Market are far less crowded than in summer, meaning you can have a moment all to yourself.

5. Go for an evening soak in the sulfur baths

Any local will tell you the best time to visit the sulfur baths is when the weather outside is cool and crisp. Brisk autumn evenings are perfect for warming up with a steam, while a traditional kisi scrub is just the thing for detoxing body and soul after a long, sweaty summer!

Abanotubani has a dozen or so sulfur baths to choose from, including the popular Chreli-Abano and the more-authentic Gulo’s. There are several bathhouses in other parts of the city that offer different experiences – see here for my recommended venues plus etiquette tips .

6. Head into the hills for a city view

Because Tbilisi is in a valley, you can literally see autumn approaching as the surrounding mountains gradually change colour. In winter , the first traces of snow in Tbilisi always appear at higher altitudes.

Mtatsminda and Narikala both offer panoramic city views , while lesser-known viewpoints such as Betlemi Rise are a peaceful alternative.

A short hike is the perfect way to while away an autumn afternoon in Tbilisi while treating yourself to amazing vistas of the city in a warm palette of fall colours. For safety , I recommend hiking with a friend. Alternatively, use the city’s network of cable cars and funiculars to get high.

7. Take a day trip to Kakheti for Rtveli

If you’re a wine-lover, autumn AKA the ‘fifth season’ is the ultimate time to visit Tbilisi and Georgia in general. In Kakheti and all across the country people start picking and processing grapes from around the second week of September through to November. Known as Rtveli , the harvest season is a joyous occasion deeply tied to Georgian culture, tradition and identity.

If your trip coincides with the harvest, then Kakheti is simply a must. Ideally you should spend a few nights in the region: Use this transport guide to get there, this accommodation guide for tips on where to stay, and my Kakheti itinerary for things to do.

If you only have time for a day trip from Tbilisi, I highly recommend going as part of an organised private tour. Not all vineyards are open to visitors during Rtveli so you have to plan ahead. See here for a list of Rtveli venues for this year .

→ Book a Rtveli experience Kakheti or an alternative wine region near Tbilisi with my preferred tour company, Eat This! Mention me to get a discount off your booking.

8. Do a proper Georgian wine tasting at 8000 Vintages

To enhance your experience in Kakheti, I highly recommend brushing up on your Georgian wine knowledge with a degustation in Tbilisi. Even if you know nothing about wine (hello, that’s me), you’ll find this is an incredibly rewarding experience. That’s because wine isn’t just wine in Georgia, it’s also a pathway to learning about history and culture.

I highly recommend a formal wine tasting with a sommelier. 8000 Vintages is by far my favourite wine shop-bar in Tbilisi – their wine selection and grazing plates are incredible, and the staff really know their stuff. Don’t be intimidated, though – everything is entry level and prices are extremely fair. Read all about my wine tasting experience here .

For something more laid back, the city’s best bars all serve local wine by the bottle or glass.

9. Go on a side trip to Mtskheta for Svetitskhovloba

Another excellent autumn excursion from Tbilisi is Mtskheta, the old capital. Many of Georgia’s most important religious relics are kept here in a network of captivating churches, monasteries and convents – and it’s only 25 minutes up the road from Freedom Square.

Although I strongly endorse a side trip to Mtskheta at any time of year, there’s one day that’s a particularly auspicious time to go: October 14. This is Svetitskhovloba (or Mtskhetoba), a festival day held in Mtskheta to celebrate the city and its 11th-century cathedral.

Revelries include a mass-baptism event hosted by Georgia’s Catholicos-Patriarch, a food market, and folk music and dance performances on an outdoor stage. Like Tbilisi during Tbilisoba, the whole city comes alive with an upbeat, vibrant atmosphere.

Just keep in mind that traffic is very heavy in the city on this day, and parking is difficult. Some monasteries and sacred sites are closed for the festival.

→ Book a private tour of Mtskheta with my preferred tour provider, Friendly.ge. Use the promo code wanderlush to save 10%.

10. Seek out Tbilisi’s best street art

Autumn is the best time to meander around Tbilisi with no particular destination in mind. If you prefer to roam with purpose, a fun activity is to embark on a self-guided street art tour .

The soft sunlight in autumn is perfect for photography, so you can capture the city’s murals in their best light. My favourite place to search for murals is around Chugureti, near Fabrika .

11. Crunch down Rustaveli Avenue

Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s main arterial, is lined with beautiful trees on both sides that start shedding their leaves in October. In the early morning before the street sweepers have had a chance to run their brooms fashioned from tree branches along the sidewalk, you’ll find the whole way covered with a blanket of syrup-coloured foliage.

Crunch along, passing some of Tbilisi’s most impressive buildings as you go. If the weather is chilly, there are plenty of excellent museums and galleries all along the avenue that you can duck into.

12. Browse the street markets

There are usually plenty of outdoor events on the weekends in early autumn, including regular maker’s fairs on Rustaveli Avenue. These markets are a great place to purchase a handmade souvenir , grab an ice cream cone , or just wander and people-watch.

13. See a show

Fall is one of the best seasons for live music and cultural performances in the city. Tbilisi’s September-October cultural calendar features ballet and opera at the theatre on Rustaveli Avenue, adults-only puppet shows at the Gabriadze Theatre, fashion parades and photography exhibitions, the Autumn Tbilisi international music festival, and sometimes recitals by the incredible Sukhishvili Dance Company .

Outside Tbilisi, the annual Tsinandali Festival – a multi-day music event hosted at the incredible Tsinandali Estate in Kakheti – takes place in the first weeks of September.

I use the TKT.ge website to search for events and to buy tickets for sporting matches, festivals and concerts in Georgia.

14. Hop between Tbilisi’s cosiest cafes

Like everywhere in the northern hemisphere, autumn is the right time to cosy up at your favourite cafe. You won’t find pumpkin spice lattes in Tbilisi, though – just specialty coffee and delicious locally grown tea.

Cafe Leila is an autumn favourite; its pumpkin-coloured facade and snug interior are made for fall (and they do a mean pumpkin soup in autumn too). I also like Chaduna in Sololaki for coffee (or wine) and breakfast , and Aristaeus Tea House for waffles and chai.

15. Savour pomegranates, mushrooms & other fall produce

Pumpkins, potatoes, pomegranates, persimmons and plenty of other produce that doesn’t start with the letter ‘p’ all come into season in Georgia in autumn. Head to the Dezerter Bazaar , the city’s liveliest food market, to see elegant displays of dried persimmons and marigold flowers the colour of sunbeams.

If you know anything about Georgian cuisine, you’ll know it’s hearty and wholesome – made for munching on brisk autumn eves. Restaurants in Tbilisi take full advantage of nature’s bounty and often add special seasonal meals to their menus.

The ultimate autumn delicacy in Georgia is Caesar’s mushrooms, which are foraged in the west of the country (especially around Upper Imereti) from late August or early September. These big amber-coloured beauties were beloved by the Ancient Romans and they certainly are delicious!

Chanterelles also grow wild in Georgia. If you want to try your hand at mushrooming, popular spots near Tbilisi include Forest Sabaduri and the Gombori Pass near Telavi .

Weather in Tbilisi in autumn

Weather in tbilisi in september.

September is often called the ‘fourth month of summer’ because it remains warm and balmy. Temperatures start to drop into the mid-20s from the second week of the month.

The end of the month brings breezy nights, perfect for sitting outside with a blanket over your shoulders and a glass of wine in hand.

Weather in Tbilisi in October

October is one of the nicest times of year in Tbilisi weather-wise, with temperatures around 15-20 degrees during the day, dropping below 10 degrees at night. It’s still quite dry, but slightly more humid.

Weather in Tbilisi in November

Tbilisi is dry in November and the hills around the city start to turn grey. The sky clouds over towards the end of November as winter creeps in.

Temperatures hover around 8-10 degrees (5 degrees overnight), so it’s still quite pleasant outdoors. November brings some of the shortest days of the year so wake up early and make the most of it!

What to wear in Tbilisi in autumn + things to pack

The start of September is still warm enough for summer attire, but by the end of the month, you’ll need a jacket or scarf for the evenings. My jeans usually come out at the start of October and by November, I’m wearing at least two layers.

If you feel the cold, I would recommend bringing a warm outer layer for travel in October or November. Autumn can be quite windy as the seasons change, which adds to the chill factor – especially at night. Rain is not uncommon in the first part of autumn so definitely pack a travel umbrella and a rain jacket .

Since autumn is prime wine time, you’ll want to pack your Wine Wings for transporting bottles of Georgian vino home with you. I also recommend bringing silicone bags like these for packaging any spices/dried fruit/ churchkhela you buy at the market.

→ Essential reading: My Georgia packing guide for all seasons.

See my other seasonal guides for Georgia

• Where to go in autumn in Georgia
• Things to do in Tbilisi in spring
• Things to do in Tbilisi in winter
• Where to go in Georgia in winter for snow
• Photos of snow in Tbilisi

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

Hi there.. may I know the Tbilisoba festival dates normally fall on 2nd/3rd weekend in October or 3rd/4th as written in another post of yours (2022 Georgian Calendar…)

Thank you so much

Whoops, thanks for spotting that! In 2021 it was supposed to be on October 24 but was cancelled. We don’t have dates or confirmation for 2022 yet but it will likely be in the 3rd or 4th week.

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Let’s Explore Georgia: Top Day Trips From Tbilisi

• July 3, 2024

Welcome to Georgia, the homeland of vines. It is one of the most beautiful and historically important countries in the world. Here you will find amazing places, delicious food, and most importantly, generous hosts. Trust me, if you decide to visit Georgia once, you will always desire to return. Tripify is a company that will help you plan a tour in Georgia. The company offers its customers both Tbilisi tours and out-of-town tours.

I suggest exploring the country known as the cradle of wine from its capital– Tbilisi. That’s why I want to share with you some tips for Tbilisi travel. Tbilisi Tours invites you on an exciting journey through its modern, historical, and local places. Witness a marvelous fusion of innovation and tradition, which gives a unique contrast. 

Must-see sightseeing in Tbilisi

Tbilisi’s appearance has changed in recent years. Architectural wonders such as the Bridge of Peace and Music Hall are shaping its modern identity. Tbilisi’s obligation to preserve its heritage is evident at the heart of the city, where you can explore the most exciting part- Old Tbilisi, a place where you will meet a completely different world. When visiting Old Tbilisi, you should not miss the Sulfur Baths, which are one of the most famous places in Tbilisi. 

There are a lot of historically important temples in Tbilisi and among them stands Trinity Cathedral. It’s the main Orthodox cathedral in Georgia. What makes the temple special? It is an example of a magnificent architectural structure, its golden, huge dome reaches the height of the sky. This is the beacon of faith and patriotism of the Georgian people. Those coming from the cathedral should visit the Rike Park, which is located a 15-minute walk from the Trinity Cathedral. If you want to relax with your loved ones then Rike Park is a great place for that. You can enjoy the entertainment space in the park, as well as look over the beautiful Tbilisi from the cable car. There is also the Peace Bridge, a huge glass bridge that is especially beautiful to see in the evening hours when the bridge is lit up in beautiful colors. So, tours in Tbilisi provide for all types of people with different tastes a suitable place for their interest.  For example, history lovers will like the National Museum of Georgia, the place where the history of Georgia is kept. Nature lovers will be delighted by the beauty and greenery of the botanical garden, where you will become one with nature. I highly recommend Mtatsminda Park where you will be able to see Tbilisi in the palm of your hand and you can spend time with your family and enjoy various attractions. 

Kazbegi-Gudauri Tour

Are you wondering why this journey is so special? In Kazbegi, in addition to seeing historical places, you can also enjoy various activities, such as Paragliding, horse-riding, and mountain climbing, etc. On this trip, you will have the opportunity to travel to the ancient places of Georgia and visit: Ananuri, Jvari Water Reservoir, Kvemo Mleta, Stepantsminda, and the impressive nature that you will meet on the way.

Kakheti 

Georgia is a homeland of wine with an 8 thousand years history of winemaking. So, With Tbilisi wine tours you can explore Georgia’s winemaking center -Kakheti. This trip allows you to visit Tsinandali, Nekresi Monastery, Alaverdi, etc.

Cave cities of Georgia

When visiting Georgia, you must visit the cave cities of Georgia: Vardzia, Davit Gareji, and Uplistsikhe. At first glance, it seems that these three cities are similar to each other, but in fact, they have radically different histories.

Georgia is truly a unique place with its history and places. And which place are you visiting first?

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7 Great Day Trips from Tbilisi, Georgia

T he capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, is filled with great historic sites, museums, and places to eat and drink. While it can be tempting to just stay in the city, there are also several great day trips from Tbilisi that allow visitors to experience even more of Georgia (and beyond!). These easy day trips include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wine regions, outdoor recreation, and more.

It’s possible to rent a car & do many of these Tbilisi day trips on your own, but organized tours are also reasonably priced. This is an especially good option if you plan on drinking Georgian wine & chacha.

Kakheti Wine Region

Georgia is famous for its wine, as it’s the oldest winemaking region in the world. Eighty percent of Georgian wine is produced in the Kakheti region. There are many day trips to Kakheti that showcase the area’s excellent wineries & historic sites.

The town of Signagi is one of the most beautiful in Georgia. Located on a hill overlooking the expansive Alazani Valley, it’s the most popular destination on Kakheti tours.

Additionally, most Kakheti tours stop at local wineries. These wineries range from small, family-run producers to some of the largest in Georgia.

At each, you will learn about the historic qvevri winemaking process that makes Georgian wine special.

I went on an outstanding wine tour to Kakheti & Signagi, which you can read more about here .

Book a Kakheti day trip here

The historical town of Mtskheta is just a short distance outside of Tbilisi, and it is one of the most popular day trips from the area.

Mtskheta was once the capital of Georgia. It is home to the Historical Monuments of Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of three religious buildings: Holy Cross Monastery of Jvari, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and Samtavro Monastery.

Jvari Monastery is unmissable from the road out of Tbilisi.

The beautiful building is located high on a hill overlooking Mtskheta.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is the impressive centerpiece of Mtskheta.

Street vendors line the road to the cathedral, selling authentic Georgian items.

Mtskheta’s popularity is helped by its proximity to Tbilisi, as it’s possible to see it in just half a day if necessary. However, its beautiful views, including riverside restaurants, are sure to make you want to stay longer.

I recommend Kera Restaurant, which serves an array of excellent Georgian dishes, including seafood. There are also several wineries nearby, including Iago’s Winery .

Book a Mtskheta day trip here

Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)

Stepantsminda, formerly Kazbegi, is a town located north of Tbilisi in the Caucasus Mountains, near the Russian border.

The area is home to one of the most famous views in Georgia. Gergeti Trinity Church is a mountaintop building with even taller mountains located behind it, including Mount Kazbek, resulting in breathtaking views.

The town is also great for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and horseback riding.

Book a Kazbegi day trip here

Gudauri Ski Resort

Georgia is rapidly becoming known as a ski destination thanks to its plentiful snow and lower prices than other European mountain resorts. In addition to Mestia in Svaneti , Gudauri is one of Georgia’s top ski resorts.

While Gudauri has plenty of hotels and resorts for a longer mountain trip, skiing and snowboarding can be done on a day trip from Tbilisi.

The drive from Tbilisi to Gudauri takes between two and three hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Although this can mean missing the first morning runs, skiers and snowboarders can still spend a long day on the slopes.

Book a Gudauri day trip here

Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave town near Gori. The name means “The Lord’s Fortress.” It’s one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus. The Uplistsikhe Cave Town was inhabited from around 1000 BC until the 13th century.

At one point, some 20,000 people lived in the town, which combines Christian and Pagan architectural elements with rock-cut styles also found in Turkey and Iran.

Uplistsikhe declined in importance as Christianity rose and Mtskheta and Tbilisi grew. However, during the period of Arab rule in those parts of the country, it later saw a renaissance as the kings of Kartli inhabited the town. Uplistsikhe was finally abandoned following Mongol raids in the 13th century.

Today, the remaining cave structures of the Inner City include homes, halls, a theater, a pre-Christian temple, and two basilicas.

An important place in Georgia’s history, Uplistsikhe is on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Book a day trip to Uplistsikhe here

The Armenian border is less than two hours away from Tbilisi. Northern Armenia is a beautiful area filled with history, from old churches to Soviet-era industry.

Organized day trip tours to Armenia include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Site monasteries, museums, and even lunches with local Armenian families.

Read about my day trip to Armenia from Tbilisi .

Book a day trip to Armenia here

Here are some other  great Tbilisi tours & activities .

For Georgian wine experiences, I recommend taking a day trip to Kakheti from Tbilisi . Also, you can visit the many wine bars in Tbilisi .

If wine isn’t your thing, Tbilisi also has excellent cocktail bars & craft beer bars & breweries . Be sure to try the local spirit known as chacha !

Need a place to stay? Check out these Tbilisi hotel options . I enjoyed my stay at the Moxy Tbilisi , and the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel is another excellent option.

The post 7 Great Day Trips from Tbilisi, Georgia appeared first on Everybody Hates A Tourist .