Discovering a city like Tbilisi is an exciting experience, as there are so many incredible sites, activities, and local specialties to explore! From tasty Khachapuri to the iconic Mother of Georgia statue, the vibrant capital of Georgia will soon become your go-to destination.
Whether you’re eager to sample traditional dishes, admire beautiful architecture, or just wander through old neighborhoods, Tbilisi has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the best things to do in Tbilisi, as well as essentials and some questions from first-time visitors to help you navigate the city.
I spent 7 months in Georgia, including 3 in Tbilisi, and I’m so excited to share everything I’ve seen and learnt while in town, so let’s get started!
Best Things to Do in Tbilisi – Overview
Before discussing all the Tbilisi things to do, let’s go through some essentials you should know before visiting, such as the location, how to get around, and everything in between.
Where is Tbilisi?
Tbilisi is located on the banks of the Kura River, and is the capital city of Georgia.
Founded in the 5th century, Tbilisi has been an important city throughout the ages due to its location at the crossroads between Europe and Asia. As you’ll learn on a walking tour in Tbilisi, the country was part of ancient Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and Russia.
How to Get to Tbilisi?
You can reach Tbilisi by air from most parts of Europe, Turkey, and Asia, making it a convenient travel destination.
If you plan to visit Armenia or Turkey, then you can also reach Tbilisi by bus, which is cheaper and also convenient.
How to Get Around in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi has awesome public transportation that you can use to get practically everywhere in the city. The quickest and simplest way to get around is the metro system.
You can purchase rechargeable card, which you can get for just 2 GEL (US$0.70) from the ticket office in each station, and use it for a flat 1 GEL (US$0.35) each way.
Additionally, Bolt taxi service is available (similar to Uber), and you can expect to pay around 30 GEL for a ride from the airport to the city center. Truth be told, I mostly called a Bolt whenever I needed to go out as it was so cheap and convenient.
Best-Rated Tour
Wine Tasting in Kakheti From Tbilisi
- Visit the wine region of Kakheti
- Enjoy 7 Georgian wine tasting sessions
- Join a fun group on a day out from Tbilisi
Includes
- Hotel transfers
- Wine tasting sessions
- All entrance fees and a fun guide
Is Tbilisi Worth Visiting?
Tbilisi is absolutely worth visiting for its incredible diversity – from old churches to art-nouveau and brutalist buildings, not to mention the amazing food and cafes.
The Holy Trinity Cathedral is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church and its aim was to celebrate the 2000 years of Jesus’s birth and the 1500 years of the autonomy of the Georgian Orthodox Church.
The interior of the Holy Trinity Cathedral is dominated by exciting religious paintings, and you’ll love every bit of it.
Also, apart from the all the best things to do in Tbilisi, there are endless day tours you can take, from wine trips to hiking tours, and you’ll have a fantastic time no matter your preferences.
How Many Days are Enough for Tbilisi?
While you can enjoy the most famous tourist attractions in Tbilisi in 3 days, I recommend spending a week in the city.
This will give you enough time to visit without rushing and you’ll also have the chance to take a day trip to Batumi, the Kakheti region, and explore hidden gems outside Tbilisi.
Is Georgia Worth Visiting?
Definitely! I visited Tbilisi and spent 6 months in Georgia traveling around, and I just can’t wait to go back. Plus, it’s a very safe city.
From the best things to do in Tbilisi to taking a trip to Batumi and drinking excellent wine in Kakheti region, I’m confident you’ll have a great time here.
Apart from that, you can come anytime and enjoy the country, as Batumi is famous for the beautiful beach and other places like Bakuriani are known for their ski opportunities.
20 Best Things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia
From exploring the old town, to visiting the sulfur baths, discovering hidden gems, joining a Georgian cooking class, and taking a day trip to Mksheta, you’ll never run out of things to do in Tbilisi.
Intrigued yet? Here are the absolute best tourist attractions in Tbilisi!
Explore the Old Town
Old Tbilisi is the delightful and meandering streets of Tbilisi, some a bit run-down and in need of renovation, but still keeping its unmistakable charm.
Exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Tbilisi is an experience by itself, with the winding alleyways leading to the most incredible sights like vintage shops and the famous Italian courtyards.
The incredible combination of Georgian, Jewish, Armenian and German heritage makes Old Tbilisi an incredibly exciting area to explore. Of course, while you’re here, make sure to take a few photos at Freedom Square and try Lumier’s Chimney Cake!
To make the most of your time in the old town, I recommend booking a walking tour (which is what I personally did) as it’s cheap and you’ll learn the interesting history of Tbilisi and see the modern art in town.
Take the Cable Car up Narikala Fortress
A fortress built in the 4th century AD and extended over centuries, Narikala Fortress is a must-see when visiting Tbilisi.
You can reach the fortress by taking the cable car at Rike Park. The cable car station is located just opposite the Old Town across the Kura River, or choose the more thrilling option of walking up the winding path to the top.
The cable car ride up offers stunning views of the city and at the summit of the hill, you can explore the two fortified sections and the incredible St. Nicholas Church, an important religious site that has been beautifully restored.
It’s an amazing opportunity to take in the Georgian culture, and you won’t want to miss it!
The cable car to Narikala Fortress starts at Ride Park, right next to Europe Square, and you can purchase a card to top up and get to the summit (the same card that you’ll then use for the metro and buses).
The Narikala Fortress cable car price is 5GEL per person per way (10GEL for round trip) and you can pay by card too. Note that the travel card costs 2 GEL, so you’ll have to pay that too.
It’s worth noting that a visit up to Narikala Fortress is included in the Tbilisi Walking Tour I shared above, so it’s a good way to learn, have fun, and save some cash from the ride as well!
Relax at The Sulphur Baths
Tbilisi is well known for its Abanotubani sulfur baths. These domed bathhouses offer a variety of health and beauty treatments using the precious warm waters.
You can choose between public baths or private rooms, and book massages or the Kisi treatment, which is an exciting exfoliating scrub down offered in the sulfur baths.
Prices for the room range from 40 to 200GEL, depending on the level of comfort you want ; there are several bathhouses with private rooms with different levels of comfort!
Some only have a shower and a small plunge pool for two, while others have more luxurious decor, larger pools and even a private sauna – wow.
Note that you’ll be able to go to 2 different baths in Tbilisi, the Sulphur Baths and the Orbeliani Baths. Both are equally stunning, so why not try them both while here?
Betlemi Church & Holy Trinity Cathedral
Betlemi Church in the Old Town and Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of the largest in the world, are the two most exciting Orthodox churches to visit in Tbilisi.
Betlemi Church is located in the Old Town of Tbilisi and is a Georgian Orthodox church that was built in the 14th century and has a unique architecture that combines Georgian and Armenian styles – how incredible!
Holy Trinity Cathedral is Georgia’s largest church and also one of the tallest Eastern Orthodox churches in the world, situated on the hill of St. Ilya and was consecrated in 2004, and it’s very well maintained. Of course, it’s not one of the mediaval churches, but it’s worth visiting.
It took almost a decade to build Holy Trinity Cathedral! Visitors can thrillingly explore various chapels, cloisters, and crypts inside Holy Trinity Cathedral, as well as marvel at the colored stained glass windows and the impressive Tbilisi City Hall in the background.
If you happen to come to Tbilisi around January 7th, you’re in luck as the Orthodox Christmas takes place at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and that’s definitely not something you want to skip!
Discover Georgian Food
Georgian cuisine is an exciting mix of European and Middle Eastern flavors, with a focus on fresh ingredients and herbs! Khinkali and Khachapuri are incredibly popular dishes, but there are so many other traditional Georgian dishes to try.
That’s right, Georgia is one of the best food destinations you can pick, and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!
In addition to Khinkali and Khachapuri, there are so many delicious stews, soups, and fresh vegetable dishes to try in Georgian cuisine! Exciting examples include Lobio (a bean stew), Kharcho (a beef and rice soup), and Satsivi (a chicken or turkey dish with a walnut sauce).
Khachapuri is not the only food item made in small bakeries. They also make Lobiani, a type of bread filled with mashed kidney beans, as well as Nazuki, a variation of Puri which includes cinnamon and raisins.
With all of these delicious traditional dishes, it’s easy to see why Georgian cuisine is so popular (and tasty!).
Tbilisi Botanical Garden
The Tbilisi Botanical Garden is an incredible green space located between the Old Town and Narikala Fortress in Tbilisi, Georgia. It hosts a plethora of amazing gardens and sections, including a Japanese garden, a greenhouse, a palm tree collection, and a section dedicated to the stunning Caucasian flora.
The Japanese garden in the Tbilisi Botanical Garden is a truly peaceful and serene area with a pond, a small bridge, and traditional Japanese plants and trees that are sure to delight.
Other main attractions of the Tbilisi Botanical Garden include the Queen Tamar bridge, a picturesque waterfall, and the incredible collection of plants and trees that can be found throughout the garden.
I spent about 2 hours visiting around and taking photos, and eventually got out at the top, where the Mother of Georgia statue is located, and took the cable car down from Narikala Fortress there. That’s a nice way to discover 2 things to do in Tbilisi at once!
Take a Georgian Wine Tasting
Georgia has a centuries-old tradition of winemaking, and they use unique methods such as fermenting the wine in clay vessels called qvevri that are buried underground! This gives the wine a truly distinctive taste and aroma that can’t be found anywhere else – how exciting!
If you’re looking to explore Georgian wines while in Tbilisi, then you should definitely head over to g.vino on Erekle II street, where you can sample some of the best Georgian wines like Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Chitistvala, Mtsvivani, Jghia, and Simonaseuli.
Joining a wine tasting tour is also an excellent way to learn more about Georgian wine culture and its unique winemaking traditions. You’ll get to sample some of the best wines in the country, meet other passionate wine enthusiasts, and explore some of the most beautiful wineries in Georgia.
The best wine region in Georgia is Kakheti, and there endless day trips you can join, but I recommend this one, which includes 7 wine tastings and a visit around the region!
Note that this is the most popular tour, especially during the summer, and I recommend booking as soon as possible.
Visit the Dry Bridge Flea Market
The Dry Bridge Flea Market is an exciting market located in Tbilisi, Georgia. As one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city, you can find all sorts of incredible Soviet stuff, vintage cameras, coins, traditional jewellery, and more.
It’s a vibrant spot to look for a special find, and the variety of items from the Soviet Union available is unbelievable. I personally recommend skipping the regular souvenir stores and coming here instead to get something really authentic.
That said, the best way to make the most of the visit is to be prepared to bargain and negotiate prices with vendors, as this is a key part of the market experience.
It’s also a good idea to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and have the best selection of items to choose from – you won’t want to miss out!
For this reason, be sure to add the Dry Bridge Flea Market to your itinerary and experience a bit of Georgian culture and history!
Join a Tour to Vardzia
Vardzia is an incredible cave monastery complex carved into the Erusheli mountain in southern Georgia.
And joining a tour to Vardzia from Tbilisi gives you the most out of your visit, as the tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the history and significance of the site and can provide amazing insights and context that you might not get otherwise.
While visiting Vardzia, you can explore the incredible cave monastery complex, visit the stunning Khertvisi Fortress and Tmogvi Castle, and check out the Museum of Medicine in Tbilisi which has an amazing display dedicated to Vardzia and the herbal medicines of the era.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day trip, a tour to Vardzia has something for you!
I arrived in Tbilisi in September and the weather was still great, which made the trip even better, but I’m sure you’ll love Vardzia no matter the season.
Spend Some Time at Galleria Shopping Mall
Galleria Shopping Mall in Tbilisi is the perfect place to spend a day. This modern mall has everything you need to have a great time – from shops, restaurants, and thrilling entertainment!
At Galleria Shopping Mall, you can find theaters, a cinema, luxury stores, and even a food court.
Galleria Shopping Mall is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is only a few minutes’ away from Freedom Square, right in the hear of Tbilisi.
Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of shopping, a night out with friends, or a fun day out with the kids, Galleria Shopping Mall is the perfect destination. So, what are you waiting for? Head to Galleria Shopping. Mall for a day of fun and excitement!
And if you plan to stay in Tbilisi longer, then you can go for groceries at the supermarket downstairs!
It’s not a massive mall like you may be used to, but coming for a treat is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi when it rains.
Take a Georgian Cooking Class
Taking a Georgian cooking class is an amazing way to learn about traditional Georgian cuisine and culture! You’ll get to have hands-on experience making dishes like Khinkali, Khachapuri, and Lobio, and you’ll be able to take these skills home with you – how awesome is that?
Some of the BEST Georgian cooking classes in Tbilisi include Small-Group Khinkali and Khachapuri Cooking Class, Nana’s Kitchen, and Georgian Flavors! These classes offer an authentic experience and the opportunity to learn about traditional Georgian cuisine.
You can take a cooking class in Tbilisi with Georgian Flavors! During the class, you’ll learn to make delicious dishes such as Khinkali, Khachapuri, and Lobio.
Not only that, but you’ll also get to learn about the unique flavors of Georgian cuisine, and the customs and traditions associated with it. Note: Georgians are very proud of their cuisine, and you’ll quickly understand why!
After the class, you will have the skills and knowledge to recreate delicious Georgian dishes for yourself, your family, or your friends.
Go to Mtskheta For a Day
Mtskheta is Georgia’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone travelling to Tbilisi! It’s a popular day trip destination and so worth the journey.
Jvari monastery, an incredible 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery located on a mountaintop with breathtaking views of Mksheta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important religious centers in Georgia.
The monastery is incredibly important because it is one of the oldest surviving examples of Georgian church architecture and is considered a masterpiece of the early Medieval Period.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is another awe-inspiring 11th-century Georgian Orthodox cathedral located in the center of Mtskheta, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cathedral is incredibly significant because it is believed to be the burial site of Christ’s mantle and is considered one of the holiest places in Georgia.
The easiest way to get to Mtskheta from Tbilisi is by marshrutka (a minibus). They depart from the Didube bus station and cost around 1-2 GEL, which is super affordable, and it takes only 30 minutes to get there.
Alternatively, you can join a guided tour to go there with an expert guide, which adds only uniqueness to your trip.
To plan the perfect day trip to Mtskheta, I recommend getting there early to have enough time to explore both Jvari monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
Dine at the New Bazari Orbeliani
Bazari Orbeliani is the newest addition to the food and dining scene in Tbilisi, Georgia. Located in the center of the city, this exciting modern covered produce market and dining hall offers specialty shops and a Georgian food court.
The food court serves both Georgian and international cuisine, like Thai and Japanese street food, as well as burgers, pizzas, and much. But what really sets Bazari Orbeliani apart is the modern twist on traditional Georgian dishes.
Ready for a cool meal out? Don’t skip New Bazari!
Join a Day Trip to Armenia
A guided tour to Armenia is the perfect way to explore the country’s culture and history in just one day.
You’ll be able to visit some of the most iconic sites in the country such as Yerevan, Lake Sevan, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Tatev Monastery, Dilijan National Park, and Areni Wine Country. You can even enjoy some delicious Georgian cuisine while you’re there.
Organizing a guided tour to Armenia is easy and convenient. You can find many different tour companies online offering day trips to Armenia from Tbilisi.
They will provide you with all the necessary information about the tour, such as the cost, itinerary, and what to expect. Once you’ve booked the trip, the tour guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Armenia. You will get to experience the history and culture of Armenia, as well as taste some of the delicious food.
So why wait? Book a guided tour to Armenia and experience the best of what the country has to offer in just one day.
Take a Walking Tour Around Tbilisi
Oh, the BEST way to explore Tbilisi is definitely on foot, and that’s why taking a walking tour deserves its own section!
A walking tour of Tbilisi will let you experience the city’s history and culture in an intimate way. You’ll get to explore all the places you’ve heard about and discover hidden gems you never knew existed.
Some of the BEST places to visit on a walking tour of Tbilisi include the Old Town, Abanotubani (the sulfur baths), Betlemi Church, and the Tbilisi Botanical Garden.
While visiting these beautiful places, don’t forget to try Churchkhela, a delicious Georgian snack prepared with sugar-covered nuts on a string, and then covered again with condensed grape juice!
The texture is similar to jelly, although it’ll be more chewy if you buy on the street in the wintertime. It has a slightly acidic flavour, but trust me – it tastes amazing!
Churchkhela can be found at many markets and street vendors throughout Tbilisi, so make sure to grab a few!
Enjoy Georgian Wine at Wine Factory N1
Wine Factory N1 is an amazing complex of bars and restaurants located in Tbilisi, Georgia. It is the perfect destination to go barhopping and experience the vibrant nightlife of the city. At Wine Factory N1, you can find a variety of delicious drinks and snacks to enjoy.
You can also have dinner there, but I recommend booking ahead of time as it gets very busy in the evening.
Try Khachapuri
While Georgians love to eat meat, Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian dish made with cheese, butter, and eggs. This delicious dish is a staple food in Georgia and can be found in many restaurants and bakeries.
To make Khachapuri, first make the dough and then combine the cheeses (mozzarella, feta, parmesan, and ricotta cheese) in a bowl. Roll out the dough and add the cheese mixture to the center. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese mixture and bake in the oven.
If you’re looking for the best places to try Khachapuri in Tbilisi, look no further! Cafe Leila, Khachapuri House, and Pur Pur are some of the best places to try this traditional Georgian dish. So take a trip to Tbilisi and try Khachapuri for yourself. You won’t regret it!
Join a Tour to the Rainbow Mountains
Georgia Rainbow Mountain (also known as Rainbow Hills Georgia) is an amazing natural phenomenon in Georgia. The Rainbow Mountains Georgia location is about 75km from Tbilisi, near the border with Azerbaijan, and near the David Gareji monastery.
It’s very difficult to find the right spot on your own, and if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, joining a tour is the absolute best way to explore this stunning area.
During a Rainbow Mountains tour, you’ll go hiking and admiring the picturesque views of the mountains, and you’ll also stop at the David Gareja Monastery, which is definitely worth a visit when in Georgia.
Day trips from Tbilisi are available for those who don’t have much time to spare, and I highly recommend you join one, just like I did! I went to the Rainbow Mountains in December and it wasn’t quite nice due to the weather, so I suggest you come in the summer.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the beauty of the Rainbow Mountains.
Pay Respect to Mother of Georgia
The Mother Georgia statue is an iconic landmark in Tbilisi, standing at a stunning 20 meters tall.
The aluminium image of a lady holding a cup of wine in one hand and a sword in another symbolizes the Georgian national character and the amazing strength and resilience of the Georgian people.
The cup of wine symbolizes hospitality, while the sword symbolizes readiness to fiercely protect the country and its people.
Visiting the statue is a must for anyone visiting Tbilisi, as it offers an amazing insight into the country’s culture and history. To get there, you can take the cable car up to the Narikala Fortress or walk up the hill.
Whether you choose to take the cable car or hike up the hill, the view of Tbilisi from the top will be equally rewarding. Seeing the Mother of Georgia statue in person is sure to be a memorable experience.
Have a Meal at Shatre Restaurant
I spent a few months in Tbilisi as a whole, and one restaurant I always come back to is Shatre.
Shatre is a 24/7 restaurant located in Rustaveli Avenue, the main walking street, with a basement where you can have an amazing meal.
This is your chance to try Khinkali, the Georgian dumplings, Khachapuri, and many other dishes that you’ll love! Other than food, I found the service at Shatre to be exceptionally good (service in Georgia isn’t the friendliest in general) and the decor to be authentic and super Instagrammable.
What to say, it’s just one of the best things to do in Tbilisi and I’d definitely keep a dinner out for Shatre!
Things to Know Before Visiting Tbilisi
Now that we’ve covered all the best attractions in Tbilisi, let’s discuss some questions from first-time visitors you may have too.
How Many Days is Enough for Tbilisi?
Three to four days is definitely enough to get a taste of the city and see the main tourist attractions.
However, if you have the luxury of a full week, you’ll be able to explore the old town, take a few day trips from Tbilisi or Vardzia. So whether you have just a few days or a whole week, Tbilisi is sure to leave you smiling and happy.
Which Month is Best to Visit Tbilisi?
I recommend visiting Tbilisi in May, June or September, when the weather is pleasant but not too hot. That’s right, while winters are freezing cold, temperatures in the summer get as high as 45°C!
If, on the other hand, you’re in Georgia for skiing or snowboarding, then December to February is a great to go to Bakuriani ski resort and having a great time!
Is Tbilisi Safe?
Absolutely, Tbilisi is a safe city for tourists! With low crime rates and friendly locals, travelers can feel safe to explore the city.
However, you should still take necessary precautions when walking around at night, such as sticking to well-lit areas, being aware of your surroundings, and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
Is Tbilisi Expensive?
Tbilisi is generally considered to be an affordable destination compared to other European cities, with lower costs for accommodation, food, and transportation.
Accommodation in Tbilisi can be quite affordable, with options ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels, with prices ranging from GEL 30-50 ($12-20) per night for a hostel or guesthouse, while a mid-range hotel can cost around GEL 100-150 ($40-60) per night.
Food in Tbilisi is also generally quite affordable, with many options for budget travelers, with prices ranging from GEL 2-10 ($1-4) for a meal at local markets and street food.
Transportation in Tbilisi is incredibly affordable, with a single metro ride costing only GEL 0.50 ($0.20), buses and minibusses (marshrutkas) costing around GEL 0.80-1.50 ($0.30-0.60) per ride, and taxis starting at around GEL 3-5 ($1-2) for a short ride.
All of this makes Tbilisi a great budget destination for those looking for an affordable getaway!
Where to Stay in Tbilisi
Now that you know more about these things to see in Tbilisi, let’s go through the accommodation options to make the most of your time in town.
Luxury: The Biltmore Tbilisi Hotel
Located near Tbilisi Opera, The Biltmore Tbilisi Hotel offers an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and sun terrace. Enjoy drinks at the bar, dine at the on-site restaurant, and relax in air-conditioned rooms with river or city views, and modern amenities.
Other features include a 24-hour front desk, car hire, and free private parking. It’s close to Rustaveli Theatre and 1 km from Freedom Square, with the airport 18 km away. You’ll be within walking distance the best places to see in Tbilisi.
Mid-Range: Tbilisi View Hotel
Nestled in Mtatsminda Mountain City Centre, Tbilisi Boutique Hotel features air-conditioned rooms with elegant decor and private bathrooms. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and complimentary house wine.
A daily breakfast and room service are available. Located just 150 meters from Rustaveli Metro Station, 650 meters from Rustaveli Avenue, and 20 km from Tbilisi Airport, with an airport shuttle available upon request.
Budget: Siberia Hotel
Siberia Hotel in Tbilisi City offers a garden, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. Rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Some rooms include balconies with city views.
Enjoy à la carte and continental breakfasts, and make use of the ironing, fax, and photocopying services. Located near Freedom Square and major attractions, the hotel is 13 km from Tbilisi International Airport, with a paid airport shuttle service.
Summary – Places to Visit in Tbilisi
It is hard to sum up this amazing trip to Tbilisi and things to do Georgia offers in one article!
Stunningly diverse attractions such as ancient churches, modern landmarks, delicious food, and vibrant cafe culture make this city truly extraordinary.
For the ultimate experience, 3-4 days is enough to explore Old Town, marvel at Betlemi Church and Holy Trinity Cathedral, take a Sulphur Bath and visit local flea markets.
I lived in Tbilisi for a few months and that was still not enough to explore all the hidden gems, but if you prepare your itinerary carefully, you’ll be in for a treat, and be able to enjoy all the best things to do in Tbilisi – Enjoy!
