Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia: The World’s Most Enchanting Capital
Welcome to the capital of one our our favorite countries, Georgia. There are so many amazing things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, and this Eastern European city absolutely exceeded our expectations. Full of history, color, and stunning views, Tbilisi should definitely be added to your travel list.
We spent 4 full days exploring Georgia's capital, and experienced everything from local markets to tourist hot spots, and Instagrammable spots to hidden gems.
Let's dive right in- here are the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, and everything you need to know for visiting this gorgeous city.
*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you. Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience. Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!
Where is Tbilisi?
Tbilisi is located in the central east area of Georgia. While it doesn't have a coast, there are plenty of things that make up for that! Tbilisi is well connected with a lot of beautiful areas of Georgia, and also surrounds the Kura river that runs through it.
Tbilisi is located in the Central East part of Georgia.
How to Get to Tbilisi, Georgia
Being the capital, Tbilisi is the easiest and cheapest place to get to in Georgia. The international airport is located just 17 km south east of the city, making it very easy to get to the heart of Tbilisi.
Flying to Tbilisi
Cities that fly direct to Tbilisi include Abu Dhabi, Aktau, Almaty, Amman, Amsterdam, Antalya, Baku, Bangkok, Dammam, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Jeddah, Kuwait, Mink, Paris, Riyadh, Sharjah, Tashkent, Tehran, Warsaw, and Yerevan.
Flight Tip: Using Skyscanner you can use calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for flying to Tbilisi.
Getting to the City of Tbilisi from the Airport: Train
The cheapest and easiest way to get to the center is by train. For just .50 Gels you can travel directly from the airport to the main train station of Tbilisi in 40 minutes. Right now there are only two trains however, one at 7:55 am, and one at 4:55 pm.
Getting to the City of Tbilisi from the Airport: Bus
If your times don't tend to line up with the train, the bus is also a very affordable and easy option to get to the center. From 6:59 am to 10:59 pm, there are a number of buses that you can take. In addition, there are different types of travel passes that you can purchase, if you plan on getting around the country by public transportation.
You can check out more information about the different passes from the official website of the airport of Tbilisi.
Getting to the City of Tbilisi from the Airport: Taxi
Taxi is certainly the fastest way that you can arrive into the city of Tbilisi from the airport. Taxis run by the meter, but generally range from 30-50 GEL to get to the center. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and the area of the city that you are staying.
Prebook your transportation:
Getting to the City of Tbilisi from the Airport: Rental Car
If you plan on exploring more of the country of Georgia, then renting a car is the way to go! Renting a car in Tbilisi is extremely easy, and you can find the car rental agencies right in the airport.
Traveling to Tbilisi by Bus
If you don't have a rental car and are coming from other areas of Tbilisi, you can take a bus from many cities throughout the country.
Here are a few popular routes that you can book:
If you plan on visiting areas in the mountains, such as Kazbegi or Svaneti, it is crucial that you get a 4x4.
Entry Requirements for Georgia
Before planning your trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, let's make sure that you know the requirements to enter the country.
Visa Requirements to Visit Georgia in Europe
Georgia is one of the most welcoming countries in the whole world! They allow visa-free travel to 98 different countries around the globe. While the majority of countries grant 30-90 days to foreigners, Georgia allows anyone (also without a visa) to study, work, and live in the country for an entire year without any additional paperwork. Pretty amazing right?
Covid Requirements to Visit Georgia in Europe
All Covid-related requirements to enter the country have now been dropped. Land borders are open once again, even the Russian one. However, we don't suggest getting close to the border of Russia at this time.
Want To Learn How To Get Paid To Travel?
We'll teach you everything you need.
Local Adjustments for Visiting Georgia in Europe
There are some things that you should know before you travel somewhere new. That's why we create full guides for each country we go to! Our complete guide to visiting Georgia covers language, currency, electrical outlets, and more. Simply click the link below to learn more.
Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia
The city of Tbilisi is packed with great restaurants, beautiful architecture, and fun activities. There is truly something for everyone in the capital of Georgia! We spent 4 days in the city, and found that we were able to do a ton of cool things. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Stay Up To Date 📫
We have a non-spammy weekly newsletter, where we give travel tips, exclusive content and discounts.
Psst! You will also get a free copy of our ebook 'Traveling 101' 🤫
Enjoy the Thermal Baths
If there's something you can't miss in Tbilisi, it's the thermal baths. There is actually an entire district with a full selection of different baths. This is because the area is naturally sourced by thermal waters, so they started building baths for locals and tourists to enjoy.
Our personal favorite was Orbeliani Baths. The building is iconic in the city of Tbilisi, so you can't miss it. We celebrated our anniversary there with a full spa package, and it was truly a spectacular experience.
Roam the Baths District
Not only are the baths themselves an incredible thing to add to your list of things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, but the entire area is.
The baths district is super picturesque, and includes a Bridge of Love, a waterfall, and great views of the old town of Tbilisi. You'll find plenty of restaurants and shops in the area as well, so you can really spend quite a few hours in this area of the city.
The bath district is home to some of the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Visit One of the Viewpoints
Tbilisi is built along a river, as well as on the side of a hill. Because of this, there are a ton of insanely beautiful viewpoints! We didn't get to visit all of them, but some of our favorites were from Tabor Monastery, Mtatsminda Park, and the Mother of Georgia statue.
There are so many great viewpoints in Tbilisi like the Tabor Monastery (above) and the Mtatsminda Park (below).
Check Out the Local Markets
Tbilisi has a ton of great local markets, and they should definitely be added to your list of things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia. Here are a couple worth checking out.
Dry Bridge Flea Market
One of the most popular markets is the dry bridge flea market. Here you'll find anything from local hand crafted jewelry to old antiques.
The Dry Bridge Market is full of antiques.
Median Bazar
This market is actually a little hidden, but a true gem. Right in the heart of the bath district, you will find a staircase going down in the middle of Vakhtang Gorgasali Square. Take the steps down, and you will find yourself in what looks like a gorgeously decorated dungeon, full of souvenirs, and local wines.
Meidan Bazar is full of local crafts and wines.
Climb the Narikala Fortress
The Narikala fortress is perched right above the baths district. The walk up gives you beautiful views of the city, and it is open to enjoy 24/7. There are also trails down to the botanical gardens, where you can also find a waterfall.
The Narikala Fortress has some of the best views of Tbilisi.
Visit the Clock Tower
One of the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia when it comes to tourist attractions is the clock tower. The colorful and wonky shape of it, is a reason in itself to visit. But visit on the hour, and you'll get to see the angel popping out and putting on a show.
The clock tower is one of the tourist highlights of Tbilisi.
Be Amazed by the Chronicles of Georgia
Visiting the Chronicles of Georgia was one of our favorite highlights of Tbilisi. Climb a long set of stairs and you'll be greeted with one of the most spectacular monuments you ever laid your eyes on.
Created in 1985, the monument was never actually finished, although by looking at it you'd never know. It has 16 pillars that are between 30-35 meters tall. They feature kings and queens at the top, and ancient stories along the bottom.
Discover the Beautiful Architecture
If it's one thing that surprised us about Tbisili, it was the architecture. There is such a mix of old soviet structures and stone buildings to those that are modern and colorful. Everywhere you turn you can be amazed by the architecture that you'll find, but the interesting thing is that most of the beauty lies on the inside!
Want to take a guide tour around Tbilisi? Here are a few options that you can choose from:
All Your Travels
in One Book
Transform your travel memories into a unique book, with personalized pages, country by country.
You may be walking to see crumbling buildings that are truly not aesthetically pleasing, but then you walk inside and it's like a whole new world. One of our favorite things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia was to discover these hidden gems. Keep reading for some of our favorites through the city to enjoy.
Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!
The Blue Houses
All around Tbilisi you can find these stunning courtyards with light blue buildings surrounding them. The intricate design is simply breathtaking. While they are amazing to photograph, we will not publicly share the locations, since they are people's homes.
The locals are very welcoming, so if you ask before entering, or keep a distance, there is no problem. If you'd like to know exactly where they are located you can simply direct message us on our Instagram.
How To Travel Cheaper and Better in 15 minutes!
How much more would you travel, if it costed you less resources?
With our Free eBook, you will learn how to save money and time on your future trips. Plus, you'll see the exact system we use.
Grab your copy for free when you sign up for our newsletter 👇
Kalantarov House
This is another interesting spot, as it is actually the inside of an apartment building! When we went the first time it was locked (rightfully so), and the second time there was a local tour guide showing one other person around.
If you want to go here, it'll really depends on luck. As well, if you enter, please remember to be respectful of the people living there.
Gallery 27
Now we can direct you to a place that's a little more public. Gallery 27 is an art gallery in the heart of Tbilisi. It opens at 12 pm, and the entrance has a stairway with colorful mosaic tiles. It's even more special when you have the sunlight peaking through.
London Hotel
This spot was originally a hotel, and now serves as an apartment building. The beauty of the place lies in its magnificent entrance, where there is a stunning curved stairwell. Unfortunately when we went to Tbilisi, the place was under renovations.
Walk Around Ryke Park
Ryke Park is situated on the east side of the river, and connected to the west side by the striking Peace Bridge. Enjoy this beautiful green area of the city, as well as the views you can capture of the other side of the city.
Ryke park has great views of the Peace Bridge.
Take the Funicular to Mtatsminda Park
Mtatsminda Park is the highest point in Tbilisi, and is actually an amusement park. It is free to enter the park itself, and you can get tickets for the rides, have snacks at the kiosks, or check out the small shops on site.
You can either drive (or get a bus) to get to the park, or you can take the funicular. We personally loved this option, because you can admire the views all the way up to the top. Cards to use the funicular are 2 GEL, and then each ride is 8 GEL.
There is also a cafe and restaurant at the top. Make sure to try the donuts from the cafe!
Mtatsaminda Park is an amusement park with great views of the city.
Want to organize a tour to Mtatsminda? Here are a few that you can choose from:
Climb to the Mother of Georgia
The Mother of Georgia was built in 1958 on top of Sololaki Hill. The twenty food aluminum structure is not only worth seeing itself, but you can also appreciate beautiful views of the city down below.
The Mother of Georgia sits high above the city of Tbilisi.
Stop at the Trinity Cathedral
Located on the east side of the city, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is surely worth crossing the bridge. Also known as Semeba, this is the primary Georgian Orthodox Church in Tbilisi. It has a beautiful courtyard, and is a great place to check out for the photographers out there.
Visit Freedom Square
Freedom Square is the center of Tbilisi. Here you can find a large roundabout, with a statue in the middle, and large buildings surrounding. This is a great area to stay, as well as to take in the busy city feels of the capital.
Take a Cooking Class
We absolutely loved the food and Georgia, and what better souvenir, than bringing home our knowledge of their best recipes! While in Tbilisi, we took a class where we learned two of their most popular dishes, khinkali and kachapuri. We booked online beforehand, and had a great experience.
Taking a cooking class is one of the most fun things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Want to book a cooking class in Tbilisi? Here are a few options:
Explore Mtskheta
Just 20 km outside the heart of Tbilisi is a historical town worth taking a trip to. Mtskheta is actually one of the oldest cities in Georgia, and has an impressive monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site lies along a river, and has plenty of great restaurants and things to do.
Want to spend a night? We suggest you stay at the Golden Fleece Hotel. We had an incredible stay- the food, the room, and the view made us feel like we were at a luxury lodge, but for a budget price (just $30)!
The Golden Fleece Hotel feels like luxury on a budget.
Want to visit Mtskheta on a day trip from Tbilisi? Here are a few tours you can book:
Go Glamping
Want to escape the busyness of the city? Relax in an amazing glamping site, where you can connect with nature. Jewelberry Glamping is just 30 minutes from the center, and has spacious domes, gardens, and even hot tubs!
How Do You Get Around in Tblisi, Georgia?
Tbilisi is a large city, but it is extremely pedestrian friendly. We had a car while in Tbilisi, but only because we were using it to discover the rest of the country.
Despite having a car, we really didn't find it necessary to have one. Parking can be pretty difficult, and the city is so pedestrian friendly. Not to mention, there is beauty everywhere you turn! So it is really such a pleasure exploring by foot to come across your own hidden gems.
Most of the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia are right in the center. However, if you're looking to get to further parts of town, don't worry- because there are also public buses, taxis, and a metro system to get around.
Transform your photos
One click is all it takes to make your photos look stunning. Get our latest package of Lightroom presets, Into The Wild.
Where to Stay in Tbilisi
The great things about traveling through Georgia, is that everything is so budget friendly. Because of this, you can stay right in the center without having to stress about it costing you a fortune.
We rented a full apartment on Airbnb for just $20/day and it was right in the heart of Tbilisi. You can check the map below for our suggestion of the general area to stay in.
Here you can see where all the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia are.
Food & Drink in Tbilisi
If it's one thing you can't get bored of in Tbilisi, it's the food scene! There are an endless amount of awesome restaurants and bars. From small local home cooking to trendy cafes, we're going to share with you our favorite restaurants in Tbilisi.
Cafe Stamba
This cafe is situated in one of the coolest hotels in Tbilisi. Cafe Stamba is open, bright, and beautifully decorated. The menu has a modern staples like avocado toast and a variety of infusions for those that want a breakfast that is a step up from your average meal.
Radio Cafe
This is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking up the retro vibes of the cafe. Radio Cafe is found in the heart of the city, and has some of the loveliest staff.
Radio Cafe has a cute and colorful interior.
Tsiskvili
Tsiskvili is a restaurant you'll want to save for a special night. This two story building is more than just a restaurant, but a full experience! They have live music, and also cook their meats right in the middle of the restaurant for customers to see. The decor is unique, and the vibe is just fantastic. Not to mention, the food is absolutely incredible!
Tsiskvili has live music and they also cook right in the middle of the restaurant.
Zacharia Zakharich
This spot is known by locals to have some of the best khinkali in town. There are now new owners, and a new name from the original, but the khinkali is still great, and the interior of the place is super cute.
Mapshalia
Looking for cheap and authentic Georgian food? Well Mapshalia is just the place for you. This tiny restaurant features some seriously delicious home cooking, for pennies on the dollar! The interior is also quite interesting, which you can see in the photos below.
Mapshalia is a unique restaurant, with some of the best home cooking in Tbilisi.
Kikliko
Kikliko was one of our favorite brunch spots in the city. The small spot is tucked away below a small garden, but is a true hidden gem. The food and service are top notch, and they also have a super cute neon sign to take a picture in front of.
Shavi Lomo
This is hands down one of our favorite restaurants in Tbilisi. The moment you walk in you are enchanted by the decor of all of the different rooms. The menu is full of Georgian specialties, and one plate is better than the next.
Shavi Lomo is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Tbilisi.
Luca Polare
Luca Polare is a chain with some of the best ice cream in the city. We went when the weather was cooler, and still found ourself returning day after day.
Mtsaminda Funicular
If you plan on going to Mtsaminda Park, there is a restaurant that is to the right of the funicular (facing the viewpoint). They serve local Georgian donuts that are the die for. This is must for specialities to try in Tbilisi.
The donuts at the restaurant in Mtatsaminda Park are must try!
8000 Vintages
Welcome to your very own library- but of wine! This place has an endless amount of bottles of wine lining their walls, along with a delicious menu of top notch plates to go with them.
There are also a few other recommendations that we were given, but we didn't have enough time for. Some other spots worth adding to your list are Fabrika, Lolita, Keto & Kote, and Amodi.
8000 Vintages is a restaurant with an endless amount of wines.
Is Tbilisi Safe?
Tbilisi is an extremely safe capital! While Eastern Europe can have a pretty bad rep, we have to say that we never felt unsafe in Georgia for even a moment. The people are super friendly and helpful, and the crime rate is very low.
Is Tblisi Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Tblisi is completely safe for solo female travelers. We suggest staying in a hostel to meet some other friends, and enjoy the city to its fullest.
I had no issue exploring solo at night as a female traveler in Tbilisi.
Will You Buy Us A Coffee? ☕
As coffee lovers, we always enjoy the energy of caffeine. It helps us get the best free travel guides out there for you! 😄
Other Things to Know About Visiting Tbilisi
We've already covered the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, how to get around, and the best places to eat and drink in the city. Now here are just a few more things to know for visiting the Georgian capital.
The Best Time to Visit Tbilisi
Tbilisi is a magical city year round! It tends to have warmer temperatures than the rest of Georgia, so we suggest going in the spring or fall to be able to enjoy the most pleasant temperatures. We would also say to save your summer spots for the great beach locations like Batumi, or to enjoy the amazing hikes in the mountain areas.
If you go in winter to Tbilisi, you may be able to find the city covered with a blanket of snow, which truly makes it even more magical. Not to mention, that it is the perfect excuse to spend the day in one of the many thermal baths!
Weather & Packing for a Trip to Tbilisi
The weather in Tbilisi is known for being warmer than other areas of Georgia. The city experiences plenty of sunshine, and therefore you won't need as heavy of clothing if you are visiting in spring or fall. Winters can get pretty cold though, as well as the nights, so make sure to layer up.
The number one thing to make sure you bring, no matter what season, is a bathing suit. This is because the thermal baths are a must in Tbilisi, so you'll definitely want to make sure you're prepared to enjoy them.
Packing List for Tbilisi, Georgia
- Comfortable sandals for walking around
- Bathing suit for the baths
- Bag/ Backpack (check out our list of favorite backpacks for travelers!)
- Drone (We use the Mavic Mini Pro 3 because it's super light and has great quality)
- Action Camera (we use the Insta 360 X3 because you can use it with an extra long selfie stick to mimic a drone)
- Sunscreen
- Chapstick
- Reusable Water Bottle (we use this water bottle from Cafago because it holds the temperature)
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks as they are super long lasting and durable)
- Cash (for sweet vendors)
- Travel Adapter (if you're not from Europe)
- Travel toiletries (our favorites are from Sheer Alternatives because they're all natural and 100ml)
Looking To Travel Somewhere?
Off The Beaten Trips is our travel agency.
But this isn't anything like you've ever experienced before. You'll have an epic trip without having to break the piggy bank.
Unique locations. Epic adventures. Lifetime memories.
How Many Days is Enough for Tbilisi?
We spent 3 full days in Tbilisi and could have easily spent a few more! You can certainly experience the best things to do in Tbilisi on a long weekend, but if you have time we'd suggest spending an extra couple of days.
There are so many fun things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, that we suggest spending several days there.
Travel Planning Tools
Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!
Tblisi is one of our favorite capitals we have visited yet. With its incredible restaurants, stunning old city, and quirky attractions, we know you'll also fall in love with it. There is so much to do in Tbilisi, Georgia, and it can truly be enjoyed by all ages.
Want to know more about what traveling through Georgia is like? Make sure to check out our ultimate guide to visiting Georgia.
Need help planning your trip and don't know where to start? Don't worry- we've got you covered! Now Scratch Your Mapa is offering the best travel planning service out there. Sit back and relax, because we'll take care of everything. To learn more, you can take a look at some of our travel planning packages.
Here are also some other articles that you'll love:
Like this article? Please share it with your family and friends, so that we can continue to keep creating free travel guides for you! It takes just a second, and would mean the world to us. Thanks for being here!
