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.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
