🇬🇪 Welcome to Tbilisi – The Soul of the Caucasus
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a kaleidoscope of cultures — a place where Persian domes, Soviet blocks, European balconies, and Orthodox churches coexist in harmony. With its cobbled alleys, ancient sulfur baths, and bold cuisine, Tbilisi seduces travelers seeking authenticity, history, and edge.
🏙️ Top Attractions in Tbilisi
🏰 Narikala Fortress
The ancient sentinel of Tbilisi, overlooking the old town and Mtkvari River. Take the cable car up, walk down past gardens and waterfalls.
⛲ Abanotubani Sulfur Baths
Soak like a king in these 1,500-year-old bathhouses. The mineral-rich waters are said to heal skin, joints, and hangovers.
🏛️ Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba)
One of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world — its golden dome is visible from nearly every hilltop.
🌁 Bridge of Peace
A modern glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge that lights up at night — symbolizing the country’s unity and transformation.
🧿 Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)
Stroll through narrow streets filled with colorful wooden balconies, antique shops, hidden cafes, and art spaces.
🧗 Mtatsminda Park
Amusement park on a mountain, reached via funicular, with sweeping views over the city and a Ferris wheel on the cliff’s edge.
🖼️ Fabrika
A Soviet sewing factory turned into a hipster haven — now a creative hub with hostels, bars, shops, and murals.
🍷 What to Eat & Drink in Tbilisi
🥟 Khinkali
Juicy meat dumplings with a twisted top — slurp the broth before biting.
🧀 Khachapuri (Adjarian style)
A boat-shaped bread filled with bubbling cheese, egg yolk, and butter. Rip and dip!
🍆 Badrijani Nigvzit
Fried eggplant rolls stuffed with walnut-garlic paste and sprinkled with pomegranate.
🥗 Pkhali & Lobio
Herbed vegetable purées and spicy bean stews served with cornbread and pickles.
🍷 Georgian Wine
Try amber wines aged in qvevri (clay pots) — Georgia is the birthplace of wine, with 8,000 years of winemaking.
🥃 Chacha
A potent local grape brandy — not for the faint-hearted.
🏨 Where to Stay in Tbilisi
🌟 Luxury: Stamba Hotel
A chic boutique hotel in a former printing house — world-class design meets Georgian flavor.
🕊️ Mid-range: Rooms Hotel Tbilisi
Industrial elegance, leafy courtyards, and a killer cocktail bar.
🏡 Guesthouse: Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel
Cozy charm with balconies overlooking the sulfur baths and Narikala.
🎨 Budget/Creative: Fabrika Hostel
Trendy, artistic, and social — perfect for digital nomads and backpackers.
📅 Best Time to Visit Tbilisi
Season | Months | What to Expect |
---|---|---|
🌸 Spring | April–June | Blossoms, mild weather, fewer tourists. |
☀️ Summer | July–August | Hot (30–35°C), but lively with festivals and nightlife. |
🍂 Autumn | September–October | Ideal for wine harvest, golden vineyards, warm days. |
❄️ Winter | November–March | Snow-dusted charm; great for nearby ski escapes. |
🧭 Travel Tips for Tbilisi
💬 Language: Georgian is the official language, but Russian and English are widely spoken in tourist areas.
💰 Currency: Georgian Lari (₾ / GEL). Very affordable compared to Western Europe.
🚕 Transport: Metro, buses, and Bolt taxis are easy and cheap. The old town is walkable.
🎭 Cultural Tip: Toasting is a sacred tradition — always follow the tamada (toastmaster) at a supra (feast).
📍 Day Trips:
Mtskheta (UNESCO holy town) – 30 minutes away
Kazbegi/Stepantsminda – dramatic mountains and Gergeti Trinity Church
Kakheti – Georgia’s premier wine region
📊 Traveler Ratings (Out of 10)
Category | Rating | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
🏞️ Scenic Beauty | 8.5/10 | Mountain backdrops, tiled rooftops, river valleys. |
🧭 Attractions | 8/10 | Deep history, rich culture, and walkable sites. |
🍽️ Food & Drink | 9.5/10 | Some of the best food and wine in the region — authentic and affordable. |
💸 Affordability | 9/10 | Excellent value for travelers. |
🚖 Transport | 7.5/10 | Simple and cheap, though not as modern. |
🏨 Accommodation Variety | 8.5/10 | Stylish hotels, cozy guesthouses, creative hostels. |
🎭 Culture & History | 9/10 | An ancient crossroad of empires with strong identity. |
❤️ Romantic Appeal | 8/10 | Quaint alleys, wine bars, balcony views. |
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly | 7.5/10 | Safe and welcoming, but limited kids’ attractions. |
☀️ Weather | 8/10 | Four distinct seasons, lovely in spring and autumn. |