places to visit in tbilisi in february

Things to do in Tbilisi in February

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February is a less popular time to visit Tbilisi . The weather is usually cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 26—46°F (-3—8°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Tbilisi during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a day trip to the Gudauri Ski Resort, take a walking tour of Tbilisi's historic neighborhoods, explore the Tbilisi Open Air Ice Rink, and more!

Tbilisi has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your February trip to Tbilisi. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to February. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Tbilisi in February. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout February, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Experiences
Weather and what to wear
Attractions

Best events and things to do in Tbilisi in February

Top experiences in february, take a day trip to the gudauri ski resort, take a walking tour of tbilisi's historic neighborhoods, explore the tbilisi open air ice rink, explore the tbilisi botanical garden, visit the tbilisi opera and ballet state theatre, holidays in tbilisi in february.

Valentine's Day ( February 14 )

Other notable holidays

New Year's Day ( January 1 )
New Year's ( January 2 )
Orthodox Christmas Day ( January 7 )
Orthodox Epiphany ( January 19 )
Mothers' Day ( March 3 )
International Women's Day ( March 8 )
Nowruz ( March 21 )
Independence Restoration Day ( April 9 )
Orthodox Good Friday ( April 18 )
Orthodox Holy Saturday ( April 19 )
Orthodox Easter Sunday ( April 20 )
Orthodox Easter Monday ( April 21 )
Victory Day ( May 9 )
St Andrew's Day ( May 12 )
Weather in Tbilisi in February

Temperatures on an average day in Tbilisi in February

The average temperature in Tbilisi in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 46°F (8°C) to a low of 26°F (-3°C). Some would describe it as cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Tbilisi , July, has days with highs of 89°F (32°C) and lows of 63°F (17°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 43°F (6°C) and lows of 25°F (-4°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Tbilisi in February based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in February

General weather summary, what to wear in february, best attractions for tbilisi in february.

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Explore nearby places

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Tbilisi throughout the year

Tbilisi in January
Tbilisi in February
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Tbilisi?

Get inspired for your trip to Tbilisi with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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What to do in Tbilisi in February 2024

Why you should visit Tbilisi in February

Tbilisi weather in february, tbilisi events in february.

Tbilisi's top places to visit in February

Flights, tours, and hotels in Tbilisi

Video guide.

February is a wonderful time to visit Tbilisi , as the city is less crowded, allowing visitors to explore its attractions with ease. The weather is chilly, but the city’s charm and vibrant culture make up for it. With various events and festivals, Tbilisi in February offers a unique and authentic experience that you won’t want to miss.

In February, Tbilisi experiences cool and crisp weather, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 9°C. Visitors should expect occasional rainfall, so it’s essential to pack a warm coat, layers, and an umbrella to stay comfortable while exploring the city.

Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre

The Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre, held in February, showcases performances from renowned local and international theater groups. Attendees can immerse themselves in the captivating world of drama, comedy, and experimental theater.

Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater Performances

Visitors can enjoy spectacular performances at the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater in February. The theater hosts a diverse array of shows, including classic ballets and operas, providing an unforgettable cultural experience.

Tbilisi Jazz Festival

The Tbilisi Jazz Festival, held in February, attracts music enthusiasts from around the world. This event features talented jazz musicians performing in various venues across the city, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Tbilisi’s top places to visit in February

Narikala fortress.

Standing proudly on a hill, Narikala Fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi , especially during the crisp, clear days of February. Take a leisurely stroll through the fortress and immerse yourself in its rich history and captivating scenery.

Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Exploring the cobblestone streets and historic architecture of Tbilisi ‘s Old Town is a must in February. Visitors can wander through the quaint district, discovering charming cafes, art galleries, and traditional Georgian houses adorned with colorful balconies.

Tbilisi Botanical Garden

The Tbilisi Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis where visitors can escape the city’s hustle and bustle. In February, the garden’s peaceful ambiance and lush greenery provide a serene setting for a relaxing stroll, offering a serene escape from the chilly weather.

Sulfur Baths District (Abanotubani)

Indulge in a rejuvenating experience by visiting the Sulfur Baths District. In February, the warm, mineral-rich waters offer a perfect retreat from the cool weather. Treat yourself to a relaxing bath and unwind amidst the unique architecture and soothing atmosphere of this historic area.

While exploring Tbilisi in February, remember to try traditional Georgian dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings). These hearty and delicious meals are perfect for warming up during the cooler weather.

Tours in Tbilisi

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10 BEST Places to Visit in Tbilisi (2024)

The capital of Georgia is the perfect place to get to know the history and culture of this fascinating country. Almost a third of the country’s population live here, so it’s a great place to get to know locals too, and maybe even practice your first few words in Georgian.

Tbilisi has an envious location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. So, you’ll see examples of both Persian and Russian architecture, evidence of its long and complex history! There are more than enough places to visit in Tbilisi in 3 days, in fact, you may find there’s enough to do for a week.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best places to visit in Tbilisi. Hopefully, our extensive list will be helpful when it comes to planning your trip to the Georgian capital. As well as the standout attractions that are the biggest tourist draws, we’ve included a few off the beaten track gems too!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Tbilisi:

These are the best places to visit in tbilisi, faq on the best places to visit in tbilisi.

Of all the amazing places to stay in Tbilisi , Vake is the top pick.

Vake was once the area of Tbilisi that the rich and the elite called home. It was where all the politicians bought and built their huge houses.

Go for a run at Vake park or just hang out on the swing set
Catch a music show at Backstage 76 located in Vake Park
Soak up some sunshine and take a dip in the Vake Swimming Pool

Knowing what to do when you visit Tbilisi is only half the equation. There are oodles of great accommodation options just waiting for you to check-in so we’ve made it a little easier for you and compiled the best places to visit.

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#1 – Tbilisi Old Town – One of the most amazing places in Tbilisi!

Get lost in a maze of narrow streets and colourful houses
Duck into a bar or a kinkhali house and experience some local hospitality
Experience the charm and character of one of the most famous places in Tbilisi

Why it’s awesome: The area in between the sulphur baths, Narikala Fortress, and Liberty Square is probably the most charming area in the whole of Georgia, never mind just its capital. You could spend hours, if not days, getting lost just wandering the narrow streets of the Old Town. Hidden away in this colourful and characterful district, you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Tbilisi, cool coffee shops, galleries, and an awful lot of cats! There are some important religious spots in the Old Town, including Jumah Mosque – the only Mosque in the world where Sunni and Shia Muslims pray together.

What to do there: It sounds like a cliché, but just wandering around is half the fun of the Old Town. When you get tired, you’re never more than a few steps from a coffee shop or a bar. There, you can experience some real Georgian hospitality! Don’t miss trying speciality kinkhali dumplings either – a Tbilisi must do. Also, look out for the ateshgah, a Zoroastrian fire temple that dates all the way back to 200AD. There are some other cool historic places in the Old Town that you can read more about later in our list.

#2 – Mtatsminda Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Tbilisi

Get outstanding views of the city from the city’s TV tower
Explore Tbilisi’s highest point – the park’s Ferris wheel
A lovely romantic place to go with your other half

Why it’s awesome: This is one of the best places in Tbilisi if you want to escape the hustle and bustle without really leaving the city. The highest point of the Georgian capital, Mtatsminda Park offers lots of things to do and see and you could spend an entire day up there. As well as the TV Tower, there’s also a dinosaur park and a fairground. Try the carousel, the waterslides, and the rollercoaster before rounding off your trip there on the Ferris wheel. It’s the highest point in Tbilisi and has excellent views of town! In fact, you could stay in a hostel nearby to make this view a permanent fixture of your morning routine.

What to do there: Wherever you go in Mtatsminda Park, you’ll get fabulous views of the city, so take some snaps! We’re sure that you’ll gain a few more Instagram followers with your stunning shots from here. If you’re travelling with kids, the amusement park is a Tbilisi must do, as is the dinosaur park. However, if it’s just you and your partner, why not surprise them with something really romantic? The Funicular Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Tbilisi, due to the stunning views and fine food!

#3 – Tbilisi Sulphur Baths – One of Tbilisi’s coolest historical sites

Relax for a couple of hours in hot baths – even in the coldest months of the year
Learn where the city gets its name from
One of the most relaxing points of interest in Tbilisi

Why it’s awesome: Did you know that Tbilisi means warm in ancient Georgian? Neither did we until fairly recently. However, that name comes from the sulphur baths, which are what the city was founded on. Nowadays, they’re one of the most popular attractions in Tbilisi. The brick domes on the edge of the Old Town have hot baths, saunas, and even private rooms with masseuses. One thing’s for sure, they’ll certainly be a relaxing escape for a couple of hours!

What to do there: If you’ve been on the road for a while and you feel in need of a bit of TLC, visit the Sulphur Baths! This Tbilisi must do is not only fun and relaxing, but the minerals in the water are good for your skin and overall health. You can book private rooms in the baths too. So, if you’re looking to splurge, you’ll get a refurbished and luxurious experience with hot and cold baths and a sauna. If you’re on a budget, it can be just as rewarding, as you’ll experience an old Soviet-style room.

#4 – Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre and the Leaning Tower of Georgia – One of the unique places to see in Tbilisi

Be awestruck at the dilapidated Leaning Tower of Georgia
See a highbrow drama enacted by… puppets
One of the most unusual things to do in Tbilisi

Why it’s awesome: It may only be a small venue with space for 80 people, but the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre is one of the most important parts of Tbilisi’s cultural scene. The theatre is named after one of the most famous Georgian playwrights in history. He also happened to be a film director, painter, and graphic artist. Quite a busy man. On top of all this, he designed the Leaning Tower of Georgia. A part of the puppet theatre, it’s actually a modern structure made up of abandoned pieces of buildings from the Old Town and buildings destroyed by earthquakes. Definitely a gem if you’re backpacking Georgia or something.

What to do there: We’d definitely recommend seeing a show at the puppet theatre. Gabriadze’s performances are critically acclaimed after all! Puppets were used so as not to attract the attention of Authoritarian rulers, but they tell seriously moving and historical stories. One of the most famous is the Battle of Stalingrad. On the hour every hour, the clock tower shows a Tbilisi must-see too. A screen on the clock tower shows the circle of life when an angel comes out and rings the bell. This is one of the more unusual attractions in Tbilisi, but certainly worth a few hours of your time!

#5 – Narikala Fortress

Fortress that dates back to the 4th century AD
Take the cable car up to one of the most recognizable landmarks in Tbilisi
Another spot where you can get outstanding views of Tbilisi

Why it’s awesome: Wondering how to see Tbilisi from above? Well, if you find Mtatsminda Park is a little too much of a trek, here’s a cool alternative. Narikala Fortress is on the edge of the Old Town, so if you’ve spent the day there, this is a great place to combine into that day. Dating all the way back to the 4th century AD, it used to have a Persian citadel inside! It was expanded upon in the subsequent 1500 years before being damaged by an explosion. Nowadays, you can hike to the top of the fortifications of one of the most famous places in Tbilisi!

What to do there: If you are planning to hike up to the fortress, do be careful as sections near the top can be slippery and quite hazardous. If you just want to enjoy the views, you can take the cable car up and not have to worry about any of that! For any thrill-seekers out there, you’ll find undoubtedly one of the coolest attractions in Tbilisi. From the Fortress, you can take a zipline down to the botanical gardens. Without a doubt one of the coolest ways to get around town!

#6 – Mother Georgia Statue

One of the most important landmarks in Georgia
Offers panoramic views over the city
20 metre aluminium statue guarding over the capital

Why it’s awesome: Turns out there are a hell of a lot of viewpoints around Tbilisi! Right next to Narikala Fortress is another Tbilisi must-see. The Mother Georgia Statue, aka Kartvlis Deda. Standing atop Sololaki Hill, the 20-metre-tall aluminium statue was designed to celebrate the city’s 1500-year anniversary. It depicts a woman in Georgian National Dress holding two things in her hands. In her left, there is a bowl of wine to greet friends, while in her right there’s a sword to deter enemies. One of the best Tbilisi vacation ideas if you want to learn about the national culture and get some good views!

What to do there: Well, at the statue you’ll probably want to take pictures and admire the views! So, really, it’s more about how you get there than what to do when you’re actually there. If you’re feeling fit and active, you can walk up to the city. However, if you’d prefer something more relaxed, why not take the cable car up? It only costs 1 lari, and the ride over the Old Town gives you a different perspective of one of the most famous places in Tbilisi!

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#7 – Tbilisi AutoMuseum

One of the largest collections of Soviet cars in the world
Hidden away in an under-visited part of town
Take a guided tour to learn more about the vehicles

Why it’s awesome: When you explore Tbilisi, it’s not much fun if you don’t get off the beaten track. Hidden away in a neighbourhood rarely visited by tourists, you’ll find the Tbilisi AutoMuseum. If you’re into cars, you can’t miss this off your Tbilisi itinerary. It’s the largest collection of Soviet cars in the Caucasus region! Not only will you see luxury vehicles owned by Soviet leaders, but the first Soviet pickup and many cars abandoned in small villages.

What to do there: To really learn about the cars, take a guided tour. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and while it may sound a little dull if you’re not into your cars, the fact that each car has its own story of how it came to be at the museum is certainly intriguing. The private collection of cars and motorbikes is definitely one of the more unusual attractions in Tbilisi, but it’s definitely worth visiting to see a different branch of Soviet history!

#8 – Chronicles of Georgia

Visit the ‘Georgian Stonehenge’
A 30 meter tall statue that’s rarely visited by locals or tourists
A great idea for what to do in Tbilisi if you’re looking for peace and quiet

Why it’s awesome: It might sound like a fantasy novel series, but it isn’t. No, the Chronicles of Georgia are one huge statue outside of the city centre. Often referred to as Georgian Stonehenge by the locals (the ones that have actually been to see it), the 30 metre statue is covered in depictions of Georgian royalty, myths and legends, and scenes from this country’s complicated history. There are even some biblical scenes close to the bottom of the pillar!

What to do there: There’s every chance you’ll have one of the most incredible landmarks in Georgia to yourself, so take advantage of that. It’s another spot where you’ll be able to get fantastic views of the city, and also the “Tbilisi Sea”. Although locals call it the sea, it’s actually a lake. This is a great place to go if you’re wanting some peace and quiet away from the city for a day, as you can sunbathe on its shores and swim in the waters!

#9 – Dry Bridge Flea Market – A great place in Tbilisi if you love to shop

Get a totally unique souvenir for your loved ones back home
Get your haggling hat on!
Open daily but most popular on the weekends

Why it’s awesome: You can go high street shopping anywhere in the world. However, if you want something truly unique, head to the Dry Bridge Flea Market. You’re bound to find something that you definitely wouldn’t in your home country! Whether it’s vintage Soviet antiques, jewellery, or just stuff for around the house, you’ll find it here at the Dry Bridge Flea Market. Although nowadays it’s a cool spot to pick up some souvenirs, historically the story isn’t quite so happy. People used to come here in the “days of survival” to make a little cash on their belongings.

What to do there: While you’re here, it’d be rude not to pick up some cool souvenirs. Whether that’s for yourself, or for friends and families back home. However, the local sellers can spot a tourist from a mile off and you’ll definitely have a few lari bolted onto your price! Make sure you haggle or even better go to the market with a Georgian friend if you have one!

#10 – Bank of Georgia Headquarters – A great place to see in Tbilisi if you love architecture!

An unusual design which allows foliage to grow underneath the building
An example of Russian constructivist architecture
One of the most unusual attractions in Tbilisi

Why it’s awesome: It may just look like a random collection of boxes at different angles on first glance, but there’s method to the madness of the Bank of Georgia headquarters! South of the city centre, you may think this looks like an impossible Lego structure made by a child, or even a Transformer midway through the change. However, this cool and unusual building is an example of the ‘Space City Method’ of architecture. It allows plants to grow beneath it!

What to do there: There’s really not much to go into the building for, since it’s the headquarters of a bank. However, it’s worth visiting just because this is one of the most unusual examples of Soviet architecture there is anywhere, let alone just in Georgia. Although it’s based on ideas from the 1920s, it wasn’t opened until 1975. Nowadays, opinion is split on the building. Go there and make your own mind up! One thing’s for sure, it’s one of the most outstanding landmarks in Tbilisi!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Tbilisi

Is Tbilisi worth visiting?

As the second biggest city in Georgia, Tbilisi is often overlooked and a true hidden gem. I would say it’s worth a visit if you’re travelling through Georgia.

What is the most famous part of Tbilisi?

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the most famous part of Tbilisi.

Is it safe to travel to Tbilisi, Georgia?

Tbilisi is a relatively safe city to visit, but you do need to be careful of crazy, erratic drivers.

Is 3 days enough time to visit Tbilisi?

Yes, three days is plenty of time to see the main attractions.

Final Thoughts

So, that’s all from our list of the best places to visit in Tbilisi. We hope that you’ve found our extensive list helpful and that you’ve got some ideas for your Tbilisi itinerary! The capital isn’t all serious and historical monuments, it definitely has a fun side too.

It would definitely be easy to stay for a week or even longer in Tbilisi, especially if your travel plans aren’t fixed. But even for the shortest trips, make sure you have our list of the best places to visit in Tbilisi at hand. It’ll save you a lot of stress when you’re mapping out what to do. And it’ll give you a hand when picking the best places to stay too!

So, now that you know about the best places to visit in Tbilisi, let us wish you a fantastic vacation. We hope you have a great time!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Winter in Tbilisi, Georgia – Your Complete Tbilisi Travel Guide

Tbilisi is a place of much mystery and intrigue. It’s one of those places you wish you knew more about, and yet it can seem a bit elusive in its allure. I recently had the chance to visit Tbilisi in winter, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the capital of this former Soviet republic.

What I experienced in Tbilisi was a city of juxtaposition. Sometimes tantalisingly so, and at other times the contrast was heartbreaking. It’s a city that wants to position itself as a European capital with the credentials to match, but yet it offers so much more than just another weekend city break destination.

Come with me as I introduce you to this city that captured my imagination and has left me wanting to discover more of Georgia…

TBILISI TRAVEL GUIDE

Where is tbilisi georgia.

Georgia, the country that so often gets confused with the American state of the same name, is located next to Turkey, on the edge of the Black Sea. But it doesn’t only share a border with Turkey. Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan all rub shoulders with Georgia and add to the country’s ambiguous identity.

So is Georgia in Europe?

Technically, not really. But it does identify as such. And while you’re visiting Tbilisi, you’ll have no doubt that there’s a very Eastern-European look and feel to the city.

Things to do in Tbilisi - Georgia Travel Guide

Best time to visit Tbilisi

Like most destinations in the northern hemisphere, Tbilisi is busier in the summertime. But does that make the summer the best time to visit?

There’s no denying you could have a lovely time exploring the city in the warmer months. The botanical gardens would be in bloom, the amusement park would be bustling, the Tbilisi Sea (actually a lake despite the name) would offer a scenic respite from the heat… But I think Tbilisi really shines as a winter destination.

Imagine sinking into one of the famed sulphur baths after a tour of the old town or an afternoon sampling Georgia’s divine wines. Or seeing the church steeples rising above a city blanketed in snow.

It’s hard to name the best month to visit Tbilisi, Georgia, but December is a good bet if you want to combine the best the city has to offer while also enjoying the festive spirit of the city.

Is Tbilisi Cheap?

Surprisingly so! In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best destinations for budget travellers. Food & drink prices – even in high-end establishments – are very reasonable, transport costs are low, and it’s possible to find affordable accommodation throughout the city.

What about safety?

Tbilisi, and Georgia, in general, is considered to be a very safe destination . But, as always, it pays to be vigilant, just as you would when travelling anywhere in the world.

Keep valuables close (or go a step further with a safe travel purse or pickpocket-proof clothing), stay aware of your surroundings, and keep a phone on you in case of an emergency.

TBILISI IN WINTER

Tbilisi Winter Weather

Georgia in winter is going to be cold, no doubt about that. However, Tbilisi rarely gets below zero degrees (Celsius), has an average temperature of 5 degrees in December, and snowfall is common. But you’re less likely to get wet weather in Tbilisi in winter than if you were to travel in the spring or autumn.

Daylight hours are fairly long in winter, with the shortest day of the year seeing around 9 hours of sunlight. So what can you expect in Tbilisi in winter? Fairly long, cool and dry days with the possibility of snowfall.

What to wear in Tbilisi Georgia in Winter

When travelling to Tbilisi in winter, you’re not going to need to pack anything out of the ordinary. Just make sure you have the essentials on hand – like a warm jacket, gloves and a scarf – and plenty of layers.

Outside is cold, but unless you’re going to the countryside, you won’t need your ski jacket!

Georgia’s dress code features a lot of black and dark tones. People dress smartly. And once you get inside, you can expect to be warm – hence the need for layers.

Tbilisi in December

Visiting Tbilisi in December may be cold, but there’s plenty going on in the city to keep you warm. Unlike elsewhere at Christmas, you don’t get the feeling that the city is ‘wrapping up for the year’. Partly because Xmas is celebrated later in Georgia (more on that below) – so it’s more like business as usual in the capital.

Travelling to Tbilisi in the quieter tourist season meant we got to sample life as it usually is (plus a few surprises like running into a Bollywood film in mid-production!). The bars and restaurants were humming with locals, we never had to queue for anything, and getting a slot at the sulphur baths was no trouble at the drop of a hat.

Tbilisi Sightseeing

There are so many things to do in Tbilisi, but here are a few ideas to get you started:

Visit Leghvtakhevi waterfall – Right in the heart of the old town, this beautiful waterfall is made even more dramatic by its surroundings. Walk up to the Botanical Gardens to see it from another angle.
Sulphur baths – No visit to Tbilisi would be complete without a soak in one of the traditional sulphur baths. Choose a lavish private spa experience, or opt for the communal pools – there’s plenty of choice in the bath district.
Tour of the old town – A mixture of influences and a muddled history means the architecture in Tbilisi is a glorious medley of styles. Take a guided tour to really appreciate the antiquity on display.
Take the cable car to Narikala Fortress – A short but fun ride in the cable car will deliver you to the gates of the 4th-century fortress that overshadows Tbilisi. Take the cable car back down or walk the Narikala Tourist route which will deliver you back after a scenic stroll.
Ride the funicular to Mtatsminda Park – You can drive to this hilltop amusement park, but it’s much more fun to ride the funicular! Then spend the day exploring the rides and attractions on offer at the top.
Go shopping – The shopping scene in Tbilisi is amazing. Yes, they’ve got your usual brands, but it’s the independent designers and fun boutique stores that really caught my eye. Hit up the markets too for authentic antiques and souvenirs.
Sample the region’s wines – As one of the oldest wine regions in the world, Georgia’s vintages deserve to be appreciated. You could head outside of the city and visit the vineyards yourself, or you could make a beeline for a wine cellar and try many different varieties at once.
Eat your way through the city – the food in Tbilisi is incredible, and the prices are minuscule. So do yourself a favour and try out as many of the traditional Georgian dishes as you can!
Peek into elaborate entrance halls – Behind nondescript doors, you’ll find the most fascinating entrance halls in Tbilisi. Hard to find unless you know exactly where to go, these grand halls are like pieces of art in their own right.
Seek out the street art – There’s plenty of art displayed in Tbilisi’s streets. Street art lovers’ will be in their element wandering the alleyways and tunnels throughout the city to get a glimpse of the offbeat art on display.

Tbilisi Street Art. Things to do in Tbilisi in winter.

Best Day trips from Tbilisi Georgia

If you’re staying in Tbilisi more than a few days, you should take the opportunity to take a day trip outside of the city to see more of what Georgia has to offer.

Here are a few ideas for day trips from Tbilisi that are less than 2 hours away. A disclaimer: I didn’t have the chance to try out any of these trips during my time in Tbilisi, but researching them has aided my appetite to head back to Georgia!

Visit Kakheti wine region – with almost 3/4 of Georgia’s wine grapes being grown in the region, Kakheti is a must-do if you want to find out what makes the country’s wine so remarkable. Just a two-hour drive will have you in the heart of wine country where you can meet the winemakers and sample their wares.
Hit the ski field – one of the greatest advantages of visiting Tbilisi in winter is the ease at which you can access some of Georgia’s finest ski fields. A couple hour’s drive will see you in Gudauri where you can find world-class skiing in Georgia at a fraction of the cost, and if you’re a beginner, you can take advantage of the English-language ski lessons too.
Find a UNESCO site on your doorstep – One of the closest day trip destinations from Tbilisi, Mtskheta is also one of the oldest cities in Europe! Over 3,000 years old, it’s the perfect place to dig deeper into Georgia’s history and visit some of the most monumental landmarks in the country.
Tbilisi Sea/Chronicles of Georgia Monument day trip – with the actual (Black) sea being around a five-hour drive away, Tbilisi locals have adopted a nearby lake as their seaside destination of choice. Obviously, the so-called Tbilisi Sea is more of a summer day trip destination; so if you’re visiting in winter, take a peek at it before heading to the nearby Chronicles of Georgia Monument. It’s ginormous in stature and hugely impressive. Plus, it offers a great viewpoint of the city.

Christmas in Tbilisi

Georgia is an Orthodox country and consequently celebrates Christmas on January 7th. But that’s not to say you’ll miss out on Christmas festivities if you visit Tbilisi in December. Quite the opposite. The Tbilisi town hall prides themselves on their festive decorations – and it shows! The lights spanning the main streets in town were incredible, and decorations hung from many a shop window.

In saying that, the ‘holiday season’ officially starts later in the month. And as a consequence, we did miss out on seeing the famed Xmas tree (the largest in the country) being lit up on the 22nd December. Some of the Christmas markets were just starting to get underway as we were leaving also.

So if you want to make the most of the festive season, I’d recommend visiting closer to Christmas day. Or even extending your holidays by visiting closer to New Years, which is when the real party hits the town!

Best places to eat in Tbilisi

If I had to name my favourite thing about visiting Tbilisi, it would have to be the food. Oh my goodness, the food . I wasn’t prepared for the flavours, the freshness, and the variety – even for a plant-eater like me. It blew all my preconceived notions of what food would be like in this former Soviet country (more potatoes anyone?) out of the water.

Another delightful surprise was the quality (and quantity!) of the restaurants on offer. From trendy Scandinavian-style cafés to basement brick-clad eateries with eclectic furnishings, and cosy candlelit diners, Tbilisi does the hospitality scene exceptionally well. I plan to write more about my culinary experiences in Tbilisi, but in the meantime, here are just a few of my favourites.

These places stood out for the quality and flavour of their food, but also for the ambience they offered.

Culinarium Khasheria

I’ve listed this one first as it was my absolute favourite place to eat in Tbilisi! Amazing fresh flavours, beautiful presentation, cosy atmosphere – Culinarium Khasheria had it all. I just wish I’d bought some of their green adjika while I was there as I’ve been craving it since I left Georgia. Pick me up some if you go?

Oozing with character, this quirky restaurant serves up Georgian-fusion food with a European flair (oh, and they have cute kitties to pat too!). Be sure to order the gobi to share – a large bowl full of typical Georgian dips and breads – it’s absolutely divine.

Fabrika isn’t really a restaurant, it’s more of an everything-space . It packs a hostel, co-working space, art studios/shops and an eatery into a former sewing factory to create an energetic and creative meeting place.

I’ve included Fabrika in this list, as it deserves to be visited for the ambience. But a disclosure – we had lunch here and it was very average compared to some of the other places we visited. I’ve heard the dinner menu is better.

Cosy and intimate, Zala was designed to have a welcoming, homely vibe, and they succeeded. The only restaurant where the owner came out to check everything was ok, they take service one step further. The food was amazing (I had a flavoursome mushroom dish), but there were very few vegan options.

Stamba Hotel is one of the coolest spaces in Tbilisi – and we saw a lot! The decor, the open kitchen, the retro café and leafy courtyard, everything in the ground-level entrance was well thought out and welcoming. Here you can eat Georgian favourites such as khachapuri, or opt for something more international – whichever way you go, you won’t be disappointed!’

What to buy in Tbilisi

Shopping in Tbilisi is a treat. Sure, there are all the usual high street stores in the city centre, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find beautiful boutiques selling everything from local couture to ceramics.

I’m not sure if it’s a trend-setting, or trend-breaking theme running through the city, but there’s some serious talent on offer. I only wish I’d had more time, and money, to explore the shops in more depth!

If you’re looking for a more traditional souvenir to take home with you, look for the intricate cloisonné (enamel) jewellery that is typical of Georgia, or anything made of wool. Wool has been an important industry in Georgia for decades and the locals love turning this natural product into beautiful handmade garments.

Tbilisi Nightlife

Nighttime is when Tbilisi really comes to life. Even in winter, it’s usual to see plenty of people about until the wee hours. The bars are busy but not crowded, and the restaurants are still serving late into the night.

There’s a real mix of trendy industrial clubs, low key wine bars, and everything in between. And as with everything, drinking in Tbilisi won’t bleed you dry!

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING TBILISI

How to get to Tbilisi Georgia

Gone are the days of red-eye flights and connections in Istanbul – at least that is, if you live in the UK. Georgian Airways now fly direct from London to Tbilisi twice a week, making the journey a much more seamless experience.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Western Europe, you’ll more likely have to change planes on the way. I flew with Turkish Airlines from Marseille through to Istanbul, had a quick stopover, and arrived in Tbilisi a little more than 6 hours after I left France. The experience of transiting wasn’t bad at all, and the flights were very comfortable.

Best places to stay in Tbilisi

Ideally, staying central is the way to go when visiting Tbilisi. The capital city is remarkably walkable and you’ll want to be close to the main attractions and activities.

I stayed in the Rooms Hotel which was ideal. Well located for the city centre, bars, restaurants and shops, yet two blocks away you have quiet residential streets – it was a great place to get acquainted with Tbilisi. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, and the breakfast spread was sublime!

Book your room here .

How to get around Tbilisi

I normally love renting a car when I’m staying anywhere for a few days or more. But Tbilisi isn’t somewhere I’d feel super comfortable doing so. Georgians have a somewhat unique driving style, and the road rules are indecipherable to an outsider.

Luckily, staying in the central city I had little need to drive anyway. If you do find yourself needing to get further afield, taxis are an affordable option. But by far the cheapest option is to jump on the public transport system. There is a metro system and plenty of buses to take you where you need to go. Travel outside of peak times to avoid the crowds.

What currency do they use in Georgia?

The currency in Tbilisi is the Georgian Lari (GEL). A very approximate exchange calculation is as follows:

£1 = 3.5 GEL
$1 = 2.5 GEL

Time Zone in Tbilisi

The time zone in Tbilisi Georgia is GMT+4. Coming from France, I found this time difference an easy one to get used to. If anything, it got me out of bed earlier to start the day exploring!

Public WiFi in Tbilisi

WiFi is available throughout Tbilisi city centre. Just look for the Tbilisi Loves You network and you can join for free. I found this super handy as my network provider was going to charge a fortune for roaming data in Georgia.

Language & Key Georgian phrases to help you get around

The Georgian language is a tricky one. Not just to speak, but to read also. Luckily, most people I encountered spoke English well so after an initial “Gamarjoba!” there was no need to blunder my way through.

You’ll also find there are signs, menus and instructions in English as well as Georgian throughout the city. But as with anywhere you travel, it’s always good to have a few key phrases on hand – for politeness and to show respect for the country you are visiting.

Here are a few words you can learn and use during your trip to Tbilisi:

Hello – Gamarjoba
Please – Gtkhovt
Thank You – Madloba
Goodbye – Nakh’vamdis
Excuse Me – Bodishi

Tbilisi, Georgia is an interesting and diverse holiday destination with a lot to offer visitors. It has a unique flavour that’s somewhat eclectic in nature and yet it keeps you enthralled.

Whether Tbilisi is somewhere you’ve never thought of visiting before, or it’s high on your bucket list, I hope this guide to visiting Tbilisi in winter has offered plenty of inspiration and useful advice.

Pin this for later…

Find out all you need to know about winter in Tbilisi, Georgia. Your complete Tbilisi guide including what to eat, where to stay and what to do in Tbilisi.

*My trip to Tbilisi, Georgia was hosted by the city hall. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.

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What a lovely overview of Georgia.

Thanks Alida 🙂

Delighted with your travel guide. We plan to visit Georgia end December January and all the insight you share here is exactly what we were looking after. Thanks!

So glad to hear this Pablo!

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16 Things To Do in Tbilisi, Georgia (3-Day Guide)

Ornate wooden balconies lean over the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi. The capital of Georgia, being a transcontinental country between Europe and Asia, is very different from what you might expect. Tbilisi offers arguably some of the best European food and wine, charming houses with courtyards, artsy and futuristic architecture, and countless corners that make you want to grab your camera. Get to know all the things to do in Tbilisi in three days as it is set to become one of the best places to visit in Europe .

Day 1 – This is Tbilisi, Georgia

Unlike other city trips in Europe, you don’t necessarily have to wake up at sunrise to avoid the crowd. Tbilisi is slowly becoming a European city known for its hospitality and fantastic food & wine.

Here are all your hotel options in Tbilisi.

1. Sulfur Baths of Old Tbilisi

Warm water enriched with minerals from deep underground is used inside the dome-shaped sulfur baths of Old Tbilisi. Around 8:30 AM, make your way to the domes and the mosque-shaped Orbeliani Bathhouse for a few very picturesque photos.

Hotels in Tbilisi 😴

When visiting the city during the colder months, getting a bath treatment is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi. Doors open at 8 AM – Costs 60 – 80‎ Lari .

Tip: For a delicious breakfast or lunch, check out Culinarium Khasheria at the Sulfer baths.

2. Meidan Bazar

Discover Georgian handicrafts, wine, and many more souvenirs in an underground tunnel bazaar. The shop goes all the way underneath the road and is a 5-minute walk from the Sulphur Baths.

Alternatively, discover Tbilisi by booking a walking tour .

3. Gallery 27

Gallery 27 is an eye-catching house with impressive carvings and has a photogenic staircase entrance decorated with colored stained-glass windows. The gallery itself offers local arts and crafts, opens at 11 AM, and is a short 5-minute walk from the Meidan Bazar.

Did you know: Tap water in Tbilisi is safe to drink. Bring your reusable bottle and prevent using plastic bottles.

Read more tips on how to reduce plastic while traveling .

4. Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba)

With a height of 87 meters, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is the largest Orthodox Cathedral of Georgia, and its golden dome can be spotted from pretty much everywhere in Tbilisi.

16 Things To Do in Tbilisi, Georgia (3-Day Guide)

From Gallery 27, take a 10-15 minute taxi ride to the cathedral and spend one to two hours around sunset wandering around the complex.

In 2004, the Sameba Cathedral opened its doors with a lush green garden, fountains, and a swimming pool where you will see the children play in the summer. The cathedral is free to enter, but to visit the inside, men have to wear long pants, and a woman has to cover her shoulders and head and wear a skirt.

5. Georgian Cuisine

With Georgia spanning between Europe and Asia this fusion of flavors is one of the most underrated cuisines in the world. Yes, you heard it right – The food in Georgia is in-cre-di-ble!

Have you heard of Khachapuri? It is Georgia’s most famous traditional dish; a delicious bread shaped like a boat, topped with eggs, cheese and butter.

Does that sound too traditional? Well, in recent years, many chefs transformed the local flavors of traditional dishes into something better. And since walnuts, eggplant, mushrooms, and cheese are commonly used ingredients finding good vegetarian meals in Georgia isn’t hard at all.

Book your food and wine tour in Tbilisi

Spend the evening at the coolest place in town; Fabrika is a large old Soviet sewing factory transformed into a multi-functional space. It includes the biggest hostel in the region, cafes & bars, artist studios, a co-working space, and a creative industrial open courtyard where everyone gathers for a drink.

The Fabrika space is an absolute must-see and a great thing to do in Tbilisi, as it is a popular hotspot among locals and travelers.

Day 2 – Old and New things to do in Tbilisi

Goodmorning on your second day exploring the things to do in Tbilisi! You must be buzzing after your first day in this incredible city! Start your day again around 8:30 AM.

7. Leaning clock tower

The first stop of the day is the fairytale-like leaning clock tower of Tbilisi. Tucked away in a side street of the old town, the clock was designed as a part of the puppet theater and attracts many eyes. A fun fact is that it has the smallest and biggest clock in the city.

Tip: Do not miss the angel hitting the bell at the hour.

Visit the clock tower on this guided walking tour

things to do tbilisi leaning clock tower

8. Flea Market

The daily ‘Dry Bridge’ flea market is perfect if you love old and antique items. A huge assortment of jewelry, vinyl records, books, old cameras, maps, clothing, and so much more is carefully laid out on the ground in the park. It’s open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day and is a 10-minute walk from the leaning clock tower. Oh, and don’t forget to bargain! It is very common.

Good to know: There are many street dogs in Tbilisi. Fortunately, they are all tagged, and the locals take good care of them.

9. Tbilisi Peace Bridge and Rike Park

Follow the path down along the riverside, and pass by the mushroom-like building ‘Public Service Hall’ towards Tbilisi’s Peace Bridge. This pedestrian bridge connects old to new Tbilisi, with on the other side a green park with fountains, art, and flowers. A good place to relax and enjoy the city.

10. Sachino – Queen Darejan Palace

The charming turquoise balcony hanging over the edge of a cliff is the former summer residence of Queen Darejan and is overlooking Rike Park. It’s a short walk uphill from Rike park and free to visit inside.

11. Narikala Fortress

Rike Park is also the cable car station to Narikala Fortress on the top of the hill. A 360-degree view over the city in a quick cable car ride will only cost you one Lari. (0.35 USD)

On top, walk the trail to the old Narikala Fortress that was built in the 4th century. From there you will have a panoramic view of the city. Follow the 1500-meter trail down to get back into Tbilisi’s old town.

Explore all the highlights of the Old Town of Tbilisi

Bonus thing to do in Tbilisi – Georgian interiors

Behind the old Tbilisian house walls, lie courtyards and stairways that could be part of a movie scene, they are that beautiful. Make sure to check out the Blue House , London Hotel and Kalantarov House .

Day 3 – Tbilisi Outskirts

For this third day of things to do in Tbilisi, it’s recommended to use the taxi a little more often. Traditional taxis are cheap but get ready to bargain. Bolt is an Uber alternative and a good option to get around the city.

13. Chronicles of Georgia

One of the best things to do in Tbilisi is a morning trip to the Chronicles of Georgia. Standing 30-meter tall, this massive 16-pilar monument overlooks the Tbilisi sea. The shape, decorations, and structure are spectacular and definitely worth a visit, as it is free to visit and open 24/7.

How to get to the Chronicle of Georgia:

The easiest way is to use the Bolt app and ask if the driver can wait for you at the monument. Expect to pay between 20 and 40 GEL for a round trip. (~ 6 – 13 USD)

Alternatively, book a tour to the Chronicles of Georgia that includes transportation, a guide, and other sights in Tbilisi.

14. Gardenia Shevardnadze

On your way back from the Chronicles, stop at the tea house and stunning garden of Gardenia Shevardnadze. Escape from the city in a relaxing garden atmosphere and try the delicious cakes, coffee, and tea.

15. Cooldown at Mtatsminda Park

Mtatsminda Park is a park at the highest point of Tbilisi at 770 meters. It can be reached by an impressive funicular ride all the way to the top. Inside the park, you can enjoy a nice breeze, have lunch or a coffee or visit one of the attractions, as it is also an amusement park. There is no entrance fee for the park, only for the attractions.

16. Wine, Georgian wine!

Wine-lover or not, you have to taste Georgian wines. Wine is Georgia, and Georgia is wine – winemaking and drinking have been part of their culture for over 8000 years! Long before Italy started making wine. Nowadays, Georgia makes wine for every taste, and it is one of its biggest export products. Close your adventure in Tbilisi with a delicious glass of wine or join a wine tasting tour of the Kakheti wine region.

How to Visit Tbilisi

Tbilisi has direct flights to major cities in Europe and into the Middle East .

Amsterdam , London, and Paris have multiple direct flights per week and there is a daily flight to Dubai, Egypt , and Israel.

Getting from the airport to Tbilisi city can be done by bus or taxi. Bus 37 runs every 15 minutes and is a 50-minute ride to the city center and costs 0,5 Lari. (0.20 USD) Another option would be taking a taxi that takes 25 minutes and will cost you about 35 Lari. (11.5 USD).

Easily book your airport transfer online

Getting around Tbilisi

By foot – Tbilisi and its charming little streets are fantastic to discover simply by walking. The distances between the things to do in Tbilisi are relatively short, especially the first two days of this city trip guide.

Public transport – The yellow buses and the metro are dirt cheap and make it easier to cover a larger distance. Pay in the bus and subway with a “Metromoney” card – a single ride costs 50 Tetri (0.20 USD) and can also be used in the Rike Park cable car.

Taxi – Taxis in Tbilisi are everywhere, but be prepared to agree on a price before entering the car. The taxi app Bolt works conveniently and gives you a fair price.

Where to stay in Tbilisi

Most things to do in Tbilisi are located in the old and charming city center, and this is also the best area to stay in Tbilisi. The city offers accommodation for any kind of budget, including some great hostels ( search for a hostel here ).

How much does Tbilisi cost?

Although Tbilisi feels like a European city, just like Budapest , it is surprisingly affordable. Currently, 1 USD is equal to 3 Lari.

Costs of Traveling in Tbilisi

Travel on a budget in Tbilisi, from $220 − $450 USD weekly per person, mid-range $700 − $1790 USD, and high-end from $1760 − $2510 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

Hotels: $60 − $200 USD Check available hotels
Hostels: $8 − $50 USD Check available hostels
Transport: $1 − $3 USD Book public transport
Car Rental: $50 − $100 USD Book a rental car
Food: $10 − $30 USD
Activities: $10 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Where to eat in Tbilisi

The food culture in Tbilisi is huge. Traditional and fusion restaurants serve delicious Georgian cuisine. The following restaurants are our favorites and also offer vegetarian options.

Culinarium Khasheria
Keto & Kote
Puri Guliani

Best time to visit Tbilisi

Tbilisi is a great city to visit year-round; however, a little bit of sunshine would make your visit even better. The best time to visit Tbilisi would be in Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September and October).

During summer, temperatures rise to 30-35 degrees, which is still doable but not great to walk around in the entire day.

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Used your article as a reference for our trip to Tbilisi and had a very nice time. Thank you.

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A Tbilisi Itinerary for 2 Days: How to See All The Highlights?

I’ve decided that Tbilisi is the only place in Georgia that I don’t hate. I wholeheartedly despised the Soviet mentality of the people of Georgia outside of the country’s capital (not that it’s missing there completely, either). Come on, guys, it’s been 32 years, you’re not Russia’s puppet anymore, lean into the West a little!

With that, I’ll say that though I have no desire to re-visit Georgia, Tbilisi is a city I’d give another go . I like it there, and that’s saying a lot given how distressed I felt everywhere else. The nature was beautiful, I’ll give it that. Here are the best places to visit in Georgia .

You might also be interested in reading:

A Practical Georgia Itinerary for 7–10 Days
Top Boutique Hotels in Georgia
7 Epic Day Hikes in Georgia
Visiting 11 of Georgia’s Most Beautiful Monasteries and Churches
Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in Georgia

How many days do you need in Tbilisi?

You need 1 – 2 days to see Tbilisi’s highlights. I can’t imagine spending any more than that, unless you’re the type of traveler that likes to sleep in until noon and then people watch for half of the afternoon. The top places you need to visit in Tbilisi can really be seen in a day or two, it’s a smallish place and you don’t need to go out searching for hidden gems in the unappealing outskirts. Yikes.

Visiting the Chronicle of Georgia in Tbilisi

Here I am finalizing my itinerary for you on a scroll of paper in the Chronicle of Georgia in Tbilisi

Now that that’s settled, here’s a detailed trip plan for your 2 days in Tbilisi. I’ll include hotels, places to eat, and all the practicalities of each attraction or tourist site.

Day 1 of Tbilisi itinerary

See the route of day 1 on Google Maps

Main sites visited on day 1: Sameba, Queen Darejan Palace, Metekhi Church, St. George Cathedral, Great Synagogue, Zion Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, Gabriadze Tower, Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, Mtatsaminda Park Restaurant tips : Organique Josper | Blue Fox Restaurant and Bar Tbilisi | Shin Restaurant Hotel recommendations: Hotel 21 | Blue Balcony Hotel Further reading: Top places in Tbilisi | What to do in Kutaisi | Georgia’s coolest landmarks

Day 1, stop 1: Sameba

Sameba Cathedral’s grand entrance. Too bad you can’t enter that way. Time spent here: 1 hour

Sameba aka the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, is an eye-catching structure that’s the city’s main church and the best place to start out your itinerary to catch some epic views of the city. That’s because it’s located on a hill on the other side of the Kura River from the Old Town center. And, if you visit on a sunny day, that golden rooftop shines bright like a diamond !

If you’re staying at Hotel 21 , Sameba’s right on your doorstep. If you’re in the Old Town, you’ll need to make your way there— I suggest taking a taxi (ask your hotel reception or use Bolt). There’s enough walking going to happen for the entire rest of the day (and honestly, Tbilisi isn’t a city with pretty backstreets or cute little alleyways).

The church is open daily morning to night , but if you’re visiting on a Sunday, pop in for liturgy service at 10 am. You’ll get to witness not only the intricate frescoes, golden icons, and ornate details, but also some Georgian polyphonic signing that happens during liturgy.

I felt like a king walking towards the church on the fancy, tiled walkway leading up to the main door. Until, that is, I found out I’m more like the jester—you can’t enter through the main gate, us common folk need to use the door to the right .

The Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia

The Holy Trinity Cathedral aka Sameba—a closer look

Make time to wander around the church grounds, they’re nice and well-maintained, and you get a different view from every corner.

Remember, at all Georgian religious sites, you need to follow the dress code of covered shoulders, and long pants or skirt/dress, and covered hair (just the ladies). There are usually wraps at the entrance to churches, but for the mother of hygiene, carry your own head scarf!

Sameba on Google Maps
Open daily from 7 am–10 pm, liturgy is Saturday at 4 pm and Sunday at 10 am
Free entry

Day 1, stop 2: Queen Darejan Palace

City walls and Queen Darejan Palace in Tbilisi, Georgia

There she is! The blue balcony of Queen Darejan Palace

Distance from previous stop: 800 m/0.5 mi, 10-minute walk Time spent here: 20 minutes

From Sameba, walk down the hill and then towards the city center, making sure you stop by Queen Darejan Palace, if only to walk on that blue balcony . The palace was built as part of the city walls in 1776 for Erekle II’s wife, Queen Darejan, and then used as a monastery, a warehouse, a theater , and now a monastery again.

The grounds are not huge, but they do feel special . There’s a church and several buildings including a hospice and educational center, but you’re there mostly for the views from the iconic balcony.

To get to Queen Darejan Palace , look for the stairs leading to Bricks Hotel. It’s pretty straightforward after that. Don’t be deterred by the generally rundown state of the alleys that you’ll be walking through. Everything’s ok, this is Georgia . They can’t keep things tidy if their life depended on it.

Get your views in and move on, there’s not really much to do here.

Queen Darejan Palace on Google Maps
Open daily 10 am–6 pm

Day 1, stop 3: Metekhi St. Virgin Church

Metekhi St. Virgin Church

Distance from previous stop: 400 m/0.3 mi, 6-minute walk Time spent here: 15 minutes

Tired of all of these views of Tbilisi yet? Too bad, because you’re getting more on this next stop.

Metekhi Church is just steps away from Queen Darejan’s Palace. Sure, it’s a nice church , but so are the other 3,741 you’ll see today ( here’s my complete list of Georgia’s most beautiful churches and monasteries ). Its picturesque setting is the real reason you want to visit. And this time, you’ll be right by the river, so it’s totally different from the other views you’ve gotten so far!

Say hi to King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the city’s founder, in the courtyard ( he’s a statue, not a mummy , in case you were wondering).

Day 1, stop 4: St. George Cathedral of Tbilisi

St. George Cathedral

Distance from previous stop: 300 m/0.2 mi, 5-minute walk Time spent here: 10 minutes

Tired of of seeing so many churches in Tbilisi? Too bad, because you’re getting more on this next stop (and then at least 2 more and a synagogue to boot). This time, you’ll finally cross the Kura River to the actual Old Town of Tbilisi.

What sets St. George Cathedral apart from the rest of them on this itinerary is its turquoise roof , and the turquoise accents in the interior. It’s also one of two Armenian churches in Tbilisi.

The church is small, and you’ll be done with your visit within minutes, but the beautifully decorated walls are worth a peek inside.

And just in case you were wondering, no, there are no views of Tbilisi from St. George’s. Bummer, I know.

Day 1, stop 5: Great Synagogue of Tbilisi

The Great Synagogue

Distance from previous stop: 250 m/0.15 mi, 4-minute walk Time spent here: 15 minutes

This stop is only for the brave , since you have to ask the person at the door if you are allowed to take a look inside. That shouldn’t stop you; actually, you can look at it as practice for dealing with the unfriendly, conniving Georgians outside of Tbilisi. Compared to them, a semi-indifferent Jew should be a piece of cake!

Unless there is a service or event going on inside, he’ll let you in . If you have questions, the guard will probably tell you to read the info on the signs and then look away promptly, so don’t even bother. Google is your friend.

I can’t say it impressed me as much as some of the amazing religious buildings in Israel that I’ve visited recently, but for Georgia, this synagogue is a worth seeing. It’s also a really nice diversion from all the Orthodox Christian churches you’ll be visiting. You know, to keep your religious senses on your toes!

Day 1, stop 6: Lunch at Jan Shardeni St (or just lunch)

Jan Shardeni Street

Distance from previous stop: 250 m/0.15 mi, 4-minute walk Time spent here: 1.5 hours

If you’ve worked up an appetite by now, you can stroll down the popular Jan Shardeni Street , also known as the lively heart of Tbilisi. This is a street full of cafes, restaurants, and some shops, and if you visit at night, it’ll be full of people. I’m not one to eat at overpriced tourist traps , and this street is full of them. But there is a unicorn in a sea of donkeys there where you can eat well, be on the most popular street, and people watch without being ripped off—I can guarantee you’ll enjoy your meal at Organique Josper —order a burger or salad and follow it with their fantastic crème brulée and you’re in for a treat.

You could also just visit Jan Shardeni like a good tourist, but then get your meal a couple of blocks down at Shin Restaurant. This is a Georgian restaurant with a cool, modern interior , which I enjoyed because Georgian restaurants are usually dark, rustic, style-less, or all of the above.

Day 1, stop 7: Zion Cathedral of Tbilisi

Zion Cathedral of Tbilisi

Distance from previous stop: it’s right at the end of Jan Shardeni

Time spent here: 20 minutes

Even the many different styles and color palettes inside the Zion Cathedral weren’t enough for it to keep its status as Tbilisi’s no. 1 church . Sameba just came and took that honor over with her hugeness.

Zion is located right at the end of Jan Shardeni, so it’s easy enough to take a look at it. Don’t be fooled by the plain exterior , there’s a lot going on inside, decoration-wise. To me it looked like the artists painting the walls were on shifts, and each new painter always brought their own paints and styles and just never talked about continuing what the other guy had started. So, if you don’t enjoy one bit of wall, just look a little to the side and voilà ! A very different fresco!

As is the case with most Georgian churches, Zion Cathedral is pretty dark on the inside. It adds to the mystery . And also, quietness. Now that I think about it, it was surprisingly peaceful at Zion despite it being smack in the middle of the city center.

Day 1, stop 7: Anchiskhati Basilica

Anchiskhati Basilica

Distance from previous stop: 750 m/0.5 mi, 10-minute walk Time spent here: 20 minutes

Make your way up past the Bridge of Peace (you’ll come back shortly) to the Anchiskhati Basilica— the oldest church in Tbilisi . This is the type of old church where you can really tell it’s old . When you step inside, you witness the undeniable signs of age. Exposed bricks on the columns and hard-to-make-out frescos, probably as gloomy back then as they are now, add an extra touch of intrigue.

Anchiskhati Basilica was built in the 6 th century and then damaged, rebuilt, and changed several times. Even now it’s not in the best shape. There’s a bell tower next to it that was built in the 17 th century.

This little church is the home base of the Anchiskhati Choir, a world-renowned Georgian polyphonic choral . You can hear the chilling sound of these men singing in the historical church every Sunday at 10 am .

The church changed its name to Anchiskhati Basilica in 1675 when the Icon of Ancha was brought there from today’s Turkey to protect it from the Ottomans. Virgin Mary, to whom it was dedicated until then, had to take the back seat. If you are interested in seeing the magical imprint of Jesus’ face that named the church, it’s waiting for you in the National Art Museum of Georgia.

Day 1, stop 8: The Clock Tower (Gabriadze Theater)

Gabriadze Theater and its clock tower straight from a twisted storybook

Distance from previous stop : 0 minutes, it’s right next to Anchiskhati Basilica Time spent here: 10 minutes

Congratulations, you’ve seen all your churches that were on the itinerary for today ! Magic Mike your way out of those modest clothes—it’s time to venture into the land of the living!

First up... a crooked puppet theater tower? It sounds random, it is random, but hey, this is Georgia and you can’t expect any type of logic here. Right next to the country’s oldest church is a funny-looking tower built in 2010 by noted Georgian theater and film director and award-winning puppeteer, Rezo Gabriadze .

The tower looks like something right out of a children’s book that fell into a warp tunnel and came to real life. It fits right in when you learn that the theater it’s attached to is Gabriadze Marionette Theater. Gabriadze himself painted the couple hundred tiles that are at the bottom of the tower.

I wouldn’t bother trying to time your visit for the hourly ding dong and little angel that rings a bell up top, it’s as unremarkable as it sounds. But you might be interested in the 12 pm or 7 pm puppet show that’s added to the bell ringing and takes place in the tiny theater that’s part of the tower. It’s just borderline worth seeing, like if you’re curious about Gabriadze’s marionette work but not enough to go to the actual theater. The tower show is called “Circle of Life” ... spoiler alert: it starts with birth and ends with death.

Day 1, stop 9: Bridge of Peace and Rike Park

Tbilisi's Bridge of Peace: Where funky architecture meets Soviet history in a captivating display

Distance from previous stop: 400 m/0.3 mi, 6-minute walk Time spent here: 1 hour to infinity

I’m not sure about you, but I’m ready for some fresh air and sunshine . Say goodbye to puppets and saints and hello to some weirdly out of place modern structures and some park benches.

You can conclude your first day in Tbilisi in Rike Park, which is a centrally located park right across the futuristic Bridge of Peace. The bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the capital , and you can clearly see why when you walk on the LED light-infused bridge. I see a space-age variation of the shape of a traditional Dutch head piece.

If you walk across close to sunset, it’ll light up your steps like you’re part of some kind of dance show. And every hour on the hour, you can enjoy one of 4 light shows.

The Bridge of Peace was built as a symbol of Georgia's transition from post-Soviet struggles to a democracy. If you have any sense of how stupid communism and socialism is, you might feel a strong vibe when walking across the Bridge of Peace. I did.

Rike Park and the rike Concert Hall in Tbilisi, Georgia

The view of Rike Park and the strange looking but fascinating Rike Concert Hall.

Across the bridge, in Rike Park, is the even stranger Rike Concert Hall. This one is a blend of spaceship and something you might find under a microscope. It’s also very big and shiny.

Once you’ve decided on what it reminds you of, take a look around the park. You get great views of Narikala Fortress , Mother of Georgia and the Presidential Palace from the bridge and Rike Park. You’ll visit two of these places tomorrow, so it’s like a teaser.

Note: The cable car up to Narikala Fortress has its bottom station at Rike Park, down near Europe Square. You’ll be going up to the fortress tomorrow using your own two feet, but if that sounds like a terrible idea to you, this is where you can catch a lift.

Day 1, stop 10 (optional): Take the cable car up to Mtatsminda Park

Mtatsminda Park views, Tbilisi itinerary

Mtatsminda Park: The ferris wheel, TV tower, and views to Tbilisi city center

Distance from previous stop: 400 m/0.3 mi, 6-minute walk Time spent here:

If you’re dying to see one more view of Tbilisi or you just aren’t ready for dinner yet, consider going up to Mtatsminda Park. It’s way above the city on a big hill—you've certainly noticed it from down below, it’s where the TV tower is located.

Mtatsminda Park is actually an amusement park , but let's just say you’ll be happy there’s no entrance fee. You can wander around the amusement park if you want to, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. Instead, take in the views right from the area beside the cable car station.

Mtatsaminda Park as viewed from Sameba

The cable car up to Mtatsaminda leaves from Vilnius Square , which is about 1 km (0.6 mi) from Liberty Square (the big one in the city center). Easy peasy, though in the main tourist season, you might find yourself waiting a couple of crowded cars before you can squeeze onto one. You could, of course, also walk.

The cable car costs GEL 10 each way (about USD 4), plus GEL 2 for the Mtatsaminda Card . The card is mandatory and non-refundable, and it’s different than the regular Tbilisi transportation card. You can also use it on Mtatsaminda amusement park rides which work on a pay-per-ride system.

The amusement park is open daily until 11 pm, the cable car runs until midnight.

Day 2 of Tbilisi itinerary

See the route of day 2 on Google Maps

Main sites visited on day 2: Betlemi stairs, Mother of Georgia, Narikala Fortress, Sulphur baths, Leghvtakhevi Canyon, Mziuri Park, Heroes Square, Chronicles of Georgia (bonus) Restaurant tips : Restaurant Usakhelouri | Legvi Cafe | Cube in Context Hotel recommendations: Hotel 21 | Blue Balcony Hote l Further reading: Day trips from Tbilisi | Best religious sites in Georgia | Georgia’s top boutique hotels

Day 2, stop 1: Betlemi Street Stairs or cable car from Rike Park

A view of Tbilisi from cable car, Gerogia

Making our way up the hill through Betlemi’s little alleys

Time spent here: 30 minutes

Start your day with a fantastic breakfast—both Hotel 21 and Blue Balcony Hotel do breakfast very well, so if you stay in one of those, you’re in for a treat .

Today, you’ll be heading up to the hill above Tbilisi city center for some epic views and some of Tbilisi’s major claims to fame. Not sure if I’d call them “the best for last”, but they’re certainly up there. Haha, pun intended.

I recommend getting your blood pumping in the morning by taking the Betlemi Street Stairs to reach the top of the hill. There’s nothing like building up suspense to the fabulous views on top than by walking through a maze of little alleys and staircases. You’ll see lots of traditional houses up close (ignore the occasional garbage), and then arrive at the top where the view opens up and you get Tbilisi on a silver platter below.

Note: If you can’t or don’t want to take the stairs, go to Rike Park and take the cable car up instead.

Day 2, stop 2: Mother of Georgia

Mother of Georgia: Meet the ultimate party mom, armed with wine and a sword

Distance from previous stop: 0, she’s right at the top of the Betlemi Stairs Time spent here: 10 minutes

The Betlemi Stairs lead you up to the Mother of Georgia— a 20 m (65 ft) aluminum woman that stands above Tbilisi, bowl of wine in one hand, sword in the other . She’s protective, proud, and doesn’t take any nonsense from enemies (hence the sword).

There’s no entrance fee to see her, and you certainly can’t enter her, but she is a symbol of the city and visiting her gets you nice views and brownie points. And it’s not like you can ignore her , she’s a big lady. Take a look and then keep moving towards the nearby Narikala Fortress.

Day 2, stop 3: Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress

Distance from previous stop: 500 m/0.3 miles, 7-minute walk Time spent here: 30 minutes

Narikala is one of the main things to see in Tbilisi, and it had even me fooled , thinking I’d get to visit a majestic fortress straight out of a fairytale—it looks like there would be something more up there when you’re looking at it from down below. But no. To avoid disappointment, just know that you don’t visit Narikala for the ruins , you visit for the views of Tbilisi.

There’s nothing left of Narikala Fortress except for some parts of the walls. One thing you can do is wander around and find the built-in staircase that’s on one of them, that’s kind of fun (and hazardous).

Views from Narikala Fortress, Tbilisi itinerary day 2

Bet you didn’t even notice the bit of wall stairs visible righ behind the handsome dude

And then there’s the only structure that hasn’t been eaten by time, St. Nicholas’s Church . You might still be sweating buckets from your hike up the hill, and Jesus is ok with that. Just make sure you’re covering up those sweaty knees, shoulders, and hair.

Narikala Fortress is free to visit and is always open.

Day 2, stop 4: Sulphur baths

Get steamy: Insta-worthy visuals and a nose-pinching aroma await in Tbilisi's Sulphur Bath district

Distance from previous stop: 300 m/0.2 mi, 5-minute walk Time spent here: 10 minutes, longer if you’re taking a bath

When you’re ready to continue on your Tbilisi itinerary, take the path on the other side of the fortress from where you entered and head downhill to the bath quarter. You’ll be surrounded by traditional Georgian houses with their colorful balconies, and then suddenly, it’ll start to get a little smelly. That’s when you’ll know you’ve made it to Tbilisi’s Sulphur baths .

Once you see the brown mounds popping up out of the ground, you’ll be double sure you’ve made it. There are something like 15 individual bath companies and some of them are bad even for Georgian standards . Keep that in mind if you’re thinking about going in and paying for any of the procedures.

I didn’t take an actual bath and think just looking around is good enough . There is one especially pretty bath house called Orbeliani Baths where you can admire the blue tile work on the façade. I checked to see they have good reviews, and they do, so if you’re after a Turkish bath experience , this could be your spot.

Day 2, stop 5: Leghvtakhevi Canyon and lunch

Leghvtakhevi Canyon in Tbilisi, Georgia itinerary

A canyon in the center of a city? Sure, why not! (Notice the location of the Orbeliani Baths on the bottom left photo.)

Distance from previous stop: 0 Time spent here: 30 minutes + extra time for lunch

When you do find Orbeliani Baths, you’ll notice it stands right on the edge of Leghvtakhevi Canyon. No worries, it’s not that dramatic, but it does make for a charming place. I like me a good canyon right in a city center, don’t you?

You can descend onto some wooden walkways and bridges that traverse the almost-dry river bed, find some cafes, but most of all, notice the superb views of traditional houses that stand on the cliff’s edge above it all. Ok, it’s not exactly awe-inspiring, but it’s a charming spot.

There are a couple of those bridges with tacky love locks on them, and on the south end of the canyon, there’s even a waterfall !

Go ahead, join in on the little city hike, it only takes like 15 minutes to get to the end (and you have to be walking slowly and taking pictures). Stop by Legvi Café for a decent lunch right inside the canyon.

Day 2, stop 6: Mziuri Park and Heroes Square

Mziuri Park

Distance from previous stop: 4 km/2.5 mi Time spent here: 1–2 hours

If you thought Leghvtakhevi Canyon was a nice break from the hustle and bustle, you’ll be ecstatic to visit this next place. Tbilisi’s Mziuri Park is like a Central Park, but outside of the city center in Vake district, about 4 km (2.5 mi) from the sulphur bath area, so put your walking legs on or take a cab.

Mziuri isn’t just a big park with numerous sculptures, but it’s a secret area with great coffee shops ! And that’s a big yes in my book. The reason for all this delicious caffeine is probably the several university buildings that surround the park. Thanks, students!

Mziuri Park was established in 1982, and severely damaged in the 2015 flood . Since then, it has continued to be rebuilt, so it’s now better, cleaner, and fuller of sculptures than ever before.

One of those shiny additions is Begi, a silver sculpture of the hippo that escaped the zoo (which is also located in Mziuri Park) in 2015, becoming an instant sensation as he munched on leaves in front of the Swatch store and promenaded himself down the city’s central highway. So, he got a statue to commemorate his little city trip.

Before you get to Begi, you can start looking for other art around the delightful Cafe Mziuri in the southwestern corner in the park, which is where the largest number of the park’s sculptures are located. Grab a coffee or a salad or soup , they’re homemade, and the design of the little house is trendy.

Then you can make your way through the park all the way to said silver hippo, but make sure to stop at Cube in Context . What used to be one of Tbilisi’s rotting, discontinued cable car stations is now a cool white cube in the middle of the park that serves as a cafe and art center.

Heroes Square

And finally, at the eastern end of Mziuri Park is Heroes Square —a memorial to the fallen in the war against the Soviet Army. Not sure why they decided it’s appropriate to have such a special spot in the middle of a huge highway traffic circle , but that’s Georgia for you. There’s a tall tower that you can’t miss, and two soldiers that stand at attention by the wall with 4,000 engraved names.

Bonus must-see place in Tbilisi: Chronicles of Georgia

Chronicles of Georgia in Tbilisi, Georgia

The epic Chronicles of Georgia—find the tiny human!

The Chronicles of Georgia is my favorite place in Tbilisi, and one of the top spots you can visit in the country. Probably because it was such a surprise and I felt like I found something nobody knows about. Ok, not nobody, but it’s a super underrated spot for sure.

Chronicles of Georgia is a gigantic monument (so again, not a little undiscovered spot by any means), built in celebration of a whopping 3,000 years of Georgian statehood and 2,000 years of Christianity. It’s a mind-blowing, almost arrogant monument that defies the norms of historical landmarks. The Chronicles of Georgia give Soviet vibes to the max, the utter hugeness, blackness and over-the-top-ness of it is incredible. It almost felt sacred!

The top half of the 16 mammoth pillars show the kings, queens, and heroes of Georgia’s past , while the bottom half takes you through the adventures of Jesus Christ. There's a stairway that takes you up there, and you get amazing views of Tbilisi from there as well.

Visiting Chronicles of Georgia in Tbilisi, Georgia

Visiting the Chronicles of Georgia is free and it’s always open , because there’s nothing to close. It’s up in the very northern part of Tbilisi. A drive there will take about 20 minutes from Liberty Square. If you drive, you can park right underneath the Chronicles of Georgia for free. Otherwise, Bolt it.

We spent 2 hours at the monument and used it as a stop on our way to Kazbegi. More on this and other most beautiful spots you need to visit in Georgia.

FAQs: Is Tbilisi worth visiting?

Tbilisi is absolutely worth visiting, and you’ll love it even more once you visit the rest of the country. It’s the only place I didn’t want to rip out all my hair. The Soviet mentality is very much present in Georgia, but Tbilisi is a welcome exception. It has a good number of attractions and monuments that’ll keep you busy and happy for a couple of days. Also, make sure to eat like a king in Tbilisi, because it’s where the country’s best restaurants are located.

FAQs: How many days do you need in Tbilisi?

I can’t figure out what you’d do in Tbilisi for more than 2 days. Heck, even 1 is enough by my standards! But I guess if you’re a slower traveler, you could stretch this itinerary into 3 days, or more if you include day trips .

FAQs: When’s the best time to visit Tbilisi?

The best time to visit Tbilisi depends on what you want from Georgia. If you're up for hiking and summer adventures, aim for May to October , but keep an eye out for sneaky mountain snow in May/June and chilly weather in September/October.

If you're itching to hit the slopes (yes, Georgia has ski slopes!), December to February is where it's at. And then you’ll get Tbilisi without tourists and see it in a way not a lot of people see . Just remember, skiing above 3,500 m might make your head spin ( h ere's my article on dealing with altitude sickness, just in case ).

There’s a lot of precipitation in Georgia, especially on the coast and in the mountains, so expect rain whenever you visit. We always got about 50% of rainy days during our stays.

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps keep this blog free, thank you!

Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about!

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right?

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.

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Things To Do Tbilisi In Winter: 9 Beautiful Tbilisi Attractions + Tips

25th December, 2022

Georgia is a beautiful Caucasus country bordering the Black Sea. Its capital, Tbilisi, offers nature, monuments, history, waterfalls and cost-effective travel options.

If you’re looking for information about what to do in Tbilisi in winter, or any time of the year really, read on and we’ll answer the following questions –

⭐ Is Tbilisi worth visiting? ⭐ What is Tbilisi famous for? ⭐ How many days are enough for Tbilisi? ⭐ Is Georgia Tbilisi cheap to travel in? ⭐ Is it safe to visit Tbilisi Georgia? ⭐ What are the top Tbilisi attractions?

Everywhere is Heated in Tbilisi in Winter

First things first, if you’re worried about travelling in Tbilisi in winter because of the cold, there’s no need to worry.

Every bus, shop and house has heating. Very good heating. So you don’t have to worry about getting too cold in Tbilisi in winter.

Georgians like to set the heat up pretty high too, even when it’s not that cold outside yet! On the Yerevan to Tbilisi train , the heat was set at 27°C!

So dressing in layers that you can remove is a good idea if you don’t want to overheat when indoors.

Now that you know it’s easy to stay warm in Tbilisi in winter, let’s go through some places to visit in Tbilisi and what to expect from them. Brace yourself because there are many Tbilisi attractions to cover!

Things to Do in Tbilisi in Winter

There are many places to see in and around the city of Tbilisi but in this article, we’ll be looking at nine of the most interesting and easily accessible Tbilisi attractions including:

→→ Roman baths and waterfalls in the old town →→ Bridge of Peace →→ Rike Park and the Narikala aerial tramway →→ Mother Georgia →→ Narikala Fortress and St Nikolai Church →→ Dry Bridge Russian Street Market →→ parks with markets, bars, and churches near the river →→ Chronicles of Georgia overlooking Tbilisi Reservoir →→ Church of the Virgin Mary

You could visit all of these places in two days using local transport with a bit of walking. The first five are within a few kilometres of each other and the last one could be done as a half-day trip by itself.

Roman Baths and Waterfalls in the Old Town

What to do in Winter in Tbilisi - Roman Baths in the Old Town

A cool sight in old Tbilisi is the Roman baths , which are only a few hundred metres upstream from the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall in the National Botanical Gardens .

So, if you’re visiting the Roman Baths, you should definitely drop by the waterfall. A 22 metre waterfall in the middle of a city is pretty cool, right?

Bridge of Peace Over the Kurra River

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - Bridge of Peace

This bridge is interesting because of its lighting programmes which start before sunset and end after sunrise, as well as its morse code rendering of the periodic table once each hour.

Rike Park and its Monument to An American President

If you turn right after the bridge, you’ll find yourself in Rike Park, where there’s a Reagan monument. You might be interested to know that there’s also a road in Tbilisi named after Reagan.

A little bit further into Rike Park, you’ll find the Rike Aerialway station, where you can take a cable car up the hill for 1 GEL (US$0.40).

Rike to Narikala Aerial Tramway

The cable car ride takes about 5 minutes and comes with amazing views on the way to the Narikala station at the top of the hill.

If you’re feeling energetic and prefer a slower ascent, you can also walk up the hill from the old town in less than half an hour.

Mother Georgia

She’s one of the most prominent Tsibili attractions.

To be honest, you won’t get the best view of Mother Georgia from there, because you’ll be too close to her and she’s HUGE!

You’ll notice she has a bowl in one hand. This is an offering for friends.

So then I guess you can figure out what the sword in her other hand is for; smiting pesky enemies of course!

As she is the representation of Georgia, obviously the message is clear.

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - Looking up at Mother Georgia

You can actually see her better from the city below, but you can’t really get any good photos of her from there because you’re too far away.

Maybe you can get a shot that gives you an idea of the scale of this statue.

She is 22 metres tall after all.

Narikala Fortress and St Nikolai Church

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - St Nikolai Church

You can feast your eyes on a pretty awesome view of the city from the ruins.

There’s also get a view of the other side of the hill from the mostly intact towers a short walk behind the church.

Either of the towers could also be a nice place to watch the sunset. Put it on your list of things to do in Tbilisi!

Dry Bridge Russian Street Market

What to Do in Tbilisi - Dry Bridge Russian Market

On Dry Bridge, people have made makeshift stalls from disused materials to sell their wares along the side of the road.

What’s even more interesting is that these stalls aren’t just confined to Dry Bridge, they seem to have moved into 9 March Park, which is to the left of the bridge if you’re facing the river.

Parks with Markets, Monuments, Bars, and Churches

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - Market in the Park Under Dry Bridge

What’s great about this park as well as the other surrounding parks, is that they have drinking fountains dispersed throughout them.

That means you don’t have to worry about going thirsty while exploring!

9 March Park and Dedaena Park

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - Dedaena Park

As mentioned above, 9 March Park is home to market stalls from the Dry Bridge Russian Street Market.

Dedaena Park , on the other hand, is home to bars, cafes, fountains, and fitness areas. It’s also the better park for river views.

Park of 9th April and Leondize Park

These two parks are separated by a road and almost form a rectangle together over two city blocks.

You’ll find monuments and fountains in both parks.

At the end of the Park of 9th April farthest from the river, you’ll see a church.

Kashveti Church of St George

Kashveti means ‘birth of the stone’ and is a reference to a legend involving a 6th-century monk’s denial of getting a woman pregnant.

He prophesised that his innocence would be proven by her giving birth to a stone.

And so it was.

Things to Do in Tbilisi: Head Outside of the City

A little bit outside of the city, you’ll find an interesting collection of monuments to Georgian history.

You can catch a bus or train to a transport exchange near the Sarajishvili metro station .

From there, let your map lead you to the Chronicles of Georgia.

The Chronicles of Georgia Overlooking Tbilisi Reservoir

The hike up.

I’m guessing the way I went up was only muddy because it had rained a little the previous day.

That being said, I have no regrets.

The Chronicles of Georgia on Mount Kenisi

What to Do in Tbilisi in Winter - Chronicles of Georgia

As Georgia is a highly religious country, a lot of the chronicles include depictions of events from the life of Jesus and his followers.

They’ve even thrown in a few angels for good measure.

Tbilisi Reservoir in the Gidani-Nadzaladevi Region

Tbilisi Reservoir - Things to Do in Tbilisi in Winter

On a clear day, you could probably see the whole reservoir.

Even on a foggy day, it’s impressive nevertheless. If you’re a fan of beautiful scenery, you’ll have to make this one of the things to do in Tbilisi.

Church of the Virgin Mary

Well, it’s small compared to all the other churches you will see in and around the Georgian capital. And it looks quite different from a lot of the other churches in Georgia too.

That’s the Church of the Virgin Mary .

You’re very likely to see locals making the sign of the cross in front of it before they go inside to pray.

Hike Back Down to Guramishvili

Hike Down From the Chronicles of Georgia - What to do in Tbilisi

I looked at the map and decided that the Guramishvili metro station looked closer, so I let my map lead me.

It led me through what looked like construction access roads.

They were still a little muddy, but not nearly as much as the trails on the way up.

I was back on non-muddy ground within 20 minutes. Hooray!

Transport in Tbilisi is comprehensive, cheap and modern. You don’t have to worry about not being able to get to all the awesome Tbilisi attractions mentioned here.

One possible issue is that buses can sometimes take a very long time if there’s traffic. At times like that, even though buses are more direct, it could be quicker to take the metro and change to a bus further along the line.

Public Transportation in Tbilisi Georgia

There are marshrutkas (minivans), buses, and trains to take you almost everywhere in the city and the suburbs for under 1 GEL (US$0.40).

You can get a local transport card at metro stations. This is not entirely required as you can also tap your credit card on the readers in buses and stations.

That’s probably why the machines in buses look more like terminals where you tap your card at shops than transport card readers.

Transport Passes

The pass grants you unlimited transport on the metro, buses, and minibuses in the time period you have purchased.

You can renew the package you bought as many times as you want. The one-day pass is best if you’re staying for less than a week, as it can be renewed daily.

Day/Week passes appear not to be valid for the Aerialway/cableway to Narikala despite the fact that the card shows that it’s accepted on cableways. There are obviously different cableways.

Hire an Electric Scooter

They’re a useful mode of transportation for checking out Tbilisi attractions within the city.

There are several different apps that can be downloaded to use them.

One of them is Eleven , with an ‘L’ that looks like an upside-down seven.

Getting To and From the Airport

The 337 bus to the Tbilisi International Airport only runs every 30 minutes or so from near the old town.

A taxi to the airport will cost around 50 GEL (US$18.85).

There is also an airport train for 0.50 GEL (US$0.20), but there seems to be only one morning departure/arrival and one afternoon departure/arrival each day.

The airport is quite small for an international airport. Despite the fact that everything else in Georgia seems to be really cheap, I found the most expensive food and drinks ever at the Tbilisi airport.

If you’re flying in or out of there, plan to eat and drink before you get there!

Some Other Things to Know About Georgia

Exploring the suburbs can be fun as you’ll quite probably see a lot of people selling stuff out of their car boots .

If you take the metro, you could possibly see young kids, around 7-10 years old, get on and walk around the whole carriage asking people for money.

When the train stops, they’ll get out and enter the next carriage to do it all again.

There are stray dogs everywhere , just like in Yerevan Armenia. Tbilisi dogs don’t have the laid-back attitude of the dogs of Yerevan though.

Tbilisi dogs will bark and run after cars, which probably explains why so many of them seemed to be injured and limping.

Dunkin’ (without the ‘Donuts’ in the name) seems to be in almost every metro station.

Quick Recap of Things to Do in Tbilisi in Winter

Just to recap for you, here’s a short list of some Tbilisi attractions you should really check out on your Tbilisi Georgia trip:

→→ Roman baths and waterfalls in the old town →→ Bridge of Peace over the Kurra River →→ Rike Park and the Narikala aerial tramway →→ Mother Georgia →→ Narikala Fortress and St Nikolai church →→ Dry Bridge Russian Street Market →→ Parks with markets, bars, and churches →→ Chronicles of Georgia overlooking the Tbilisi Reservoir, and →→ Church of the Virgin Mary

And Now to Answer Your Questions

⭐ Is Tbilisi worth visiting? Of course! As you can see, there are many things to see and do. ⭐ What is Tbilisi famous for? Nature and history. ⭐ How many days are enough for Tbilisi? You need at least 2 days to scratch the surface, but there are plenty of things to keep you occupied for a week or more. ⭐ Is Georgia Tbilisi cheap to travel in? Yes, it is. ⭐ Is it safe to visit Tbilisi Georgia? Yes. You can walk around and catch public transport at night with no issues. ⭐ What are the top Tbilisi attractions? Mother Georgia and the Narikala ruins, roman baths, city waterfalls, Bridge of Peace, Dry Bridge Market, parks with monuments, churches and cathedrals.

🇬🇪 Georgia Summary 🇬🇪

In a few words – Cheap and interesting Language – Georgian is the official language. Russian is also commonly spoken and English speakers can be found. The written Georgian script is also beautiful! Currency – Georgian Lari (GEL) WiFi availability – 📶📶📶📶 It’s relatively easy to find WiFi if you need it. Transport – 🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗 Georgian transport is excellent and cheap. 🚕 Taxis are available in the cities. 🚐 Marshrutkas (minivans) are available in the city and suburbs for shorter routes not covered by public buses. 🚍 Public buses offer fairly comprehensive coverage of the city and suburbs. 🚆 The Metro is great for getting around the city quickly and intercity trains are comfortable. Roads – 🛣🛣🛣🛣🛣 Most city and suburban roads are well maintained Scenery – 🌲⛰️🏖️🏞️🌲 Georgia is scenically beautiful Prices – 💰💰 Georgia is amazing for travelling on a budget. Transport is cheap and efficient. Food is cheap and tasty. Many tourist attractions are free. Border efficiency – 🛂🛂🛂🛂 Immigration was pretty efficient at the airport, but the land border with Armenia had only two officers to process hundreds of people. Overall – 👍👍👍👍👍

Thinking about a trip to Tbilisi?

MORE TO EXPLORE!

8 replies to “things to do tbilisi in winter: 9 beautiful tbilisi attractions + tips”.

Thank you for sharing these great ideas for things to do. I work with the Wines Georgia website and I’ve always wanted to visit but didn’t know where to start. Great list for those seeking more information.

I’m told by my wine-loving friends that Georgia has amazing wine regions, but as a non-wine drinker, I prefer to check out quirky stuff and nature!

This is such a thorough and helpful guide!! I also love how much variety there is for the activities! So many fun things :)

Yes! Tbilisi is a great place to see a lot of different things.

I’ve always wanted to visit, but never thought of going in winter! Good to know everything is heated

I wasn’t planning on going in winter, but it was still nice anyway!

Mother Georgia would be an amazing monument to see. I love the welcoming symbolism (and the warning). It goes without saying that I would love the baths and waterfalls.

You can see her from almost everywhere in the city! Waterfalls are always awesome!

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

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on March 27, 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

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A City Guide to Mosul

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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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Things to do in Tbilisi: The Ultimate Tbilisi Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to traveling to Tbilisi, Georgia plus the best things to do and coolest places to visit in Tbilisi. I've added lots of practical tips and recommendations on where to stay, where to eat and drink, nightlife, shopping, sightseeing and attractions, plus info on visa, SIM card etc to help you plan your trip to Tbilisi, Georgia. #Tbilisi #Georgia

“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.

Tbilisi Travel: Things to do in Tbilisi and best places to visit in Tbilisi

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 .

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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.

Tbilisi Travel Guide: Visit Abanotubani, Tbilisi Old Town

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.

Things to do in Tbilisi: Explore the Old Town when you travel Tbilisi

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.

Things to do in Tbilisi: Explore the Old Town

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.

Things to do in Tbilisi: National Opera and ballet theater

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.

Things to do in Tbilisi: Wine tasting in Tbilisi

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.

Things to do in Tbilisi: Dry Bridge Market, one of the coolest places to visit in Tbilisi

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.

Georgian Cuisine: Don't miss the food in Georgia

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!

Must-see attractions in Tbilisi

Exterior of Narilka Fortress in Tbilisi.

Narikala Fortress

Dominating the Old Town skyline, Narikala dates right back to the 4th century, when it was a Persian citadel. Most of the walls were built in the 8th…

National Gallery

For most visitors the highlight here is the hall of wonderful canvases by Georgia’s best-known painter Pirosmani (Niko Pirosmanashvili, 1862–1918),…

Tbilisi's most exhilarating ride is its massively popular cable car, which swings from the south end of Rike Park high over the Mtkvari River and the Old…

Georgian National Museum

The major highlight of the impressive national museum is the basement Archaeological Treasury, displaying a wealth of pre-Christian gold, silver and…

Metekhi Church

The landmark Metekhi Church, and the 1960s equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali beside it, occupy the strategic rocky outcrop above the Metekhi…

The ride up Mt Mtatsminda on the city's funicular is spectacular, as are the views from the top – and there are a couple of great places to eat or drink,…

Anchiskhati Basilica

Tbilisi’s oldest surviving church is perhaps its loveliest. Built by King Gorgasali’s son Dachi in the 6th century, it's a three-nave basilica whose…

Kartlis Deda

This 20m-tall aluminium symbol of Tbilisi holds a sword in one hand and a cup of wine in the other – a classic metaphor for the Georgian character, warmly…

October 18, 2019: Exterior of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (Sameba) in Old Tbilisi.

Tsminda Sameba Cathedral

The biggest symbol of the Georgian Orthodox Church's post-Soviet revival towers on Elia Hill above Avlabari. Tsminda Sameba, unmissable by night and day,…

Abanotubani

The brick domes rising here are the roofs of subterranean bathhouses, the Abanotubani. Alexanders Dumas and Pushkin both bathed in these sulphurous waters…

Parliament Building

The impressive high-arched Parliament building has seen many momentous events, including the deaths of 19 Georgian hunger strikers at the hands of Soviet…

Open-Air Museum of Ethnography

This collection of traditional, mostly wooden houses, from all around Georgia, is spread over a wooded hillside with good views, and makes for an…

MOMA Tbilisi

This beautiful conversion of the former Tbilisi Cadet Corps building has been given over to displays of work by the museum's founder, Zurab Tsereteli, the…

Sioni Cathedral

Sioni was originally built in the 6th and 7th centuries, but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, and what you see today is mainly 13th century. It…

Project ArtBeat

This gallery is Georgia's leading contemporary art space, nurturing local talent and giving shows to up-and-coming artists. Pop in to see what's currently…

Botanical Gardens

It’s easy to wander for a couple of hours in these tree-filled and waterfall-dotted gardens, which stretch more than a kilometre up the valley behind the…

Concert Hall & Exhibition Centre

The two large tubular metallic structures at the north end of Rike Park were commissioned from Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas during the…

Kashveti Church

The first church on this site is supposed to have been built in the 6th century by Davit Gareja, one of the ascetic ‘Syrian fathers’ who returned from the…

Shalva Amiranashvili Museum of Art

This museum contains a vast wealth of icons, crosses and jewellery from all over Georgia. Sadly, it can only be entered with a guide (English available,…

This green expanse along the eastern riverbank, with its winding paths, pools and fountains, is joined to the west side of the Mtkvari by the Bridge of…

Residence of Bidzina Ivanishvili

The monstrous residence of Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgia's richest man, former prime minister and éminence grise on the political scene, looms over the…

Presidential Palace

Georgia’s presidential palace, which is not open to visitors, was a Saakashvili-era prestige project that opened in 2009. Its ultraclassical portico is…

Armenian Cathedral of St George

This large cathedral just above Meidan was founded in 1251, though the current structure dates mainly from the 18th century. Its interior has colourful…

Tbilisi History Museum

The eclectic exhibits here, housed in an old caravanserai, range from models and photos to high-society and folk costumes from the 19th century, and…

Bridge of Peace

The Bridge of Peace, a rather incongruously modern glass-and-steel footbridge over the Mtkvari with a totally unnecessary roof, was designed by Italian…

On the short walk up to the Botanical Gardens you pass the only mosque in Tbilisi that survived Lavrenty Beria’s purges of the 1930s. It's a red-brick…

Public Service Hall

Nicknamed the Umbrellas, this building by Italian Massimiliano Fuksas is the biggest of a dozen Public Service Halls opened in new, contemporary buildings…

Mtatsminda Park

The amusement park on top of Mt Mtatsminda will interest children, but can also be a lot of fun for adults (check out the enormous Ferris wheel) and the…

Clock Tower

One of old Tbilisi's most emblematic structures is also one of its newest, a higgledy-piggledy clock tower, built by puppet master Rezo Gabriadze during a…

Mtatsminda Pantheon

The national pantheon sits on the slopes of Mt Mtatsminda, on the route of a walking path down from Mtatsminda Park, and is the site of burial for many…

In tsarist times Meidan was the site of Tbilisi’s bustling main bazaar. Today it's busy with traffic but opens to the Metekhi Bridge over the Mtkvari –…

Jvaris Mama Church

Little Jvaris Mama stands on a site where a church has stood since the 5th century. The current incarnation dates from the 16th century and its interior…

Freedom Square

This busy traffic nexus was Lenin Sq in Soviet times. Georgia’s last Lenin statue, toppled in 1990, stood where the golden St George (a gift to the city…

Shahtakhti Fortress

The ruined Shahtakht Fortress on the Sololaki Ridge once housed an Arab observatory.

Residence of the Catholicos-Patriarch

Opposite the small and leafy park Erekle II moedani, high walls hide the residence of the Catholicos-Patriarch, head of the Georgian Orthodox Church.

Norasheni Church

The large Armenian Norasheni Church, dating from 1793, has been long disused but tentative (and still incomplete) renovations began in 2015.

More destinations you need to see

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.

14 Top Things to Do in Tbilisi - Tbilisi Travel Guide

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.

Holy Trinity cathedral - Best things to see in Tbilisi

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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

old town of Tbilisi - Best things to do in Tbilisi

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.

Georgian cuisine - khinkali- Journal of Nomads

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 - Journal of Nomads - Ferris Wheel Tower

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

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tbilisi Itinerary

Last Updated on November 1, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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.

Traditional balconies in the Old Town of Tbilisi

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.

The quirky puppet theatre is very photogenic

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.

The view of Tbilisi from the Nirakala Fortress

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.

The waterfall in the Tbilisi Botanic Garden

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!

The Jvari Monastery overlooking Mtskheta

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.

A private room at the Chreli Abano Baths

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.

The impressive Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

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!

Georgia itinerary: Borjomi mineral water pavilion

How to Get from Tbilisi to Borjomi & Things To Do in Borjomi

Tbilisi to Sighnaghi & Kakheti Region: A 1 or 2 Day Itinerary

How To Get From Kutaisi to Tbilisi by Bus, Train or Taxi

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! 🙂

Exploring Tbilisi: Our List of the top ten things to do in Tbilisi

By: Author Jim Vail

Posted on Published: 11 August 16 - Last updated: 18 March 24

Home » DIY Travel » Guides » Exploring Tbilisi: Our List of the top ten things to do in Tbilisi

If you are considering a trip to Tbilisi, go! Exploring Tbilisi, you will find that there are lots of fun things to do, great food, and it’s not an expensive destination. Here is our list of the top ten things to do in Tbilisi.

I have to admit when Corinne first came up with the idea of going to Georgia I was a bit hesitant. I don’t know what it was but for some reason I just wasn’t comfortable with the safety and security issues in the region.

There had been a civil war in the country in the past two decades that had never been fully resolved.

After some research, however, we decided the timing was right. We cemented the plan to do a Georgia road trip , and of course, we started in Tbilisi, an amazing Eastern European capital.

We hope you enjoy this guide to top ten things to do in Tbilisi and don’t forget to bring some amazing Tbilisi souvenirs home with you!

In this guide, you’ll learn about:

Common Questions about Tbilisi

Transportation to the Best Things to do in Tbilisi

The Top Ten Best Things to do in Tbilisi

Map of the best things to do in tbilisi.

Where to eat in Tbilisi

Is Tbilisi Worth Visiting?

As we were researching Georgia, all we found were positive reports with many sights to see and things to do. By most reports, the country is safe fro tourism again.

We found Tbilisi to be a bit shabby looking in parts, but the sinking and dilapidation really adds to the charm. And there are many places that are really stepping into the modern zone.

Does it feel like you are traveling? It sure does. We’re already planning a return trip. We loved it, so yes, Tbilisi is very much worth visiting.

View of Holy Trinity Cathedral from Mtatsminda Park in Tbilisi.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tbilisi?

The best temperatures of the year are in May and June and then again after the heat of summer in September and October. So spring and fall are the best times to visit Tbilisi.

Modern art statue on a bridge in Tbilisi.

You just have to decide if you would rather have flowers or foliage to look at. There is also a bit more rain in the spring than in the fall. The month of June is the rainiest all year long.

Graph with Average High Temps throughout the year in Tbilisi.

We visited Georgia in Spring, during the month of April, and it had mild temperatures. Long sleeves and long pants were comfortable during the day. At night, you also need a jacket.

Outside cafes and beautiful balconies along Erekle II street in Tbilisi old town.

What is the Current Political Situation in Tbilisi, and Georgia?

The most recent military action happened in 2008 and resulted in Russian annexation of parts of the country in what looks like, in retrospect, a Russian rehearsal for what would later occur in Crimea. Georgia still considers one of the sectors, Abkhazia, as occupied territory, though relations with Russia have somewhat normalized.

Apparently satisfied with their territorial gains along the Black Sea coast, Russia went on to bigger and bullier things while still maintaining a controlling presence in both South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Colorful fruit stand in front of dilapidated building in Tbilisi old town.

Additional Reading: The Georgian Dumpling Khinkali How To Visit Tbilisi on a Budget Top Things to Do in Armenia

Modern construction at Rike park and the Presidential palace in the background.

Is There Crime In Tbilisi?

Tbilisi is the capital city and the largest urban area in Georgia so of course there is crime there.

During the war with Russia and the earlier civil war with South Ossetia and Abkhazia, there were terrorist attacks and bombings, including air raids by the Russian Air Force, but that was in the past and little evidence of this remains today.

The current state of affairs in Tbilisi is pretty much business as usual in a big city. The local government has been slowly updating infrastructure, there are new building projects underway, and tourism is definitely on the rise.

We never felt any danger of any sort. Well, except when crossing the street on a busy boulevard with no crosswalks.

Georgian soldiers honor fallen comrades during memorial ceremony at Holy Trinity Cathedral.

What is Georgian Unity Day Like?

We did have one experience that, while it wasn’t threatening in any way, gave us cause to pause, and we ended up staying around to see what was happening.

Our first guest house was across the river about a stone’s throw from the iconic Sameba Cathedral and we decided it would be a great starting point for our first day in the city.

It was a crystal clear, warm April morning and the Cathedral’s golden dome was shining in the sun. Families were strolling around the park-like grounds surrounding the cathedrals enjoying the spring flowers, cherry trees, and sunshine.

We took several pictures outside the building, walking around and marveling at the structure.

When we entered the cathedral there were twelve coffins, each draped with the Georgian flag and each bearing a framed picture of a young man.

This was obviously a funeral or memorial service with families, officials, and military men and women in attendance.

April 9th is the day of National Unity in Georgia, the day Georgia declared its independence from the USSR, and the day, a year before that, when twenty protesters were killed by Soviet troops squashing a protest for independence.

We thought this was something to do with the events of the past and it turns out these were newly identified remains from an aircraft shot down during the Abkhazia civil war in 1993.

Tbilisi fruit vendor on the street near the old town.

Is Tbilisi Safe For Tourists?

While it’s true that Tbilisi and most of Georgia is safe for tourists, with more and more development taking place to improve the tourism industry throughout the country, the fact remains that the scars and memories of war are still very much part of the public identity.

However, most visitors to the country are welcomed with open friendliness.

The biggest danger from most strangers is that you’ll drink too much of their homemade wine that they will treat you to at every opportunity.

Power Tip: Check the US State Department website for overall safety or road and driving conditions if you are thinking of taking a road trip during your visit.

One thing we’ve noticed while traveling around eastern Europe is that some countries have come out from under the Soviet umbrella in better shape than others.

Maybe it’s part of the troubled past of Georgia, always in the crossroads of conquering armies, that has delayed its development.

Or perhaps it’s the need to deal with internal strife that has diverted resources from much-needed public infrastructure.

I can’t really be sure after only a short visit, but I did notice that even though it is coming a little later to the game, Georgia has been making some strong and determined advances towards putting Tbilisi and Georgia squarely on the tourism map.

Sites in Tbilisi have been cleaned up, renovated and repaired, and are open and ready for business.

The entrance to the glass covered bridge of peace in Tbilisi.

Is Tbilisi Cheap?

All of this works together to make a visit to Tbilisi both enjoyable and affordable. There are a host of good choices for hotels or guest houses in a wide range to suit any taste or comfort level.

The food scene is growing alongside the rest of the tourism industry at a good pace with some really excellent eating options for both local and international cuisine.

Of course, wine is where it’s really at in Georgia, with most of the history books agreeing that Georgia is the birthplace of the modern wine-making method.

Tbilisi has museums, amusement parks, ballet, bike tours, even a castle ruin to explore. It’s time to make plans for your visit today!

Do You Need A Visa for Georgia?

Most countries do not require a visa to enter, however the website to check is here.

If you are from the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the European Union you can stay in Georgia up to 365 days without a visa or residence card.

It’s becoming one of the places that digital nomads go, avoiding Schengen Visa restrictions found in other parts of Europe.

Tbilisi sculptures like this one can be found throughout the old town.

How To Get To Tbilisi

Most visitors to Tbilisi will arrive via air, landing at the small but efficient Tbilisi Airport. Connections to the city can be made by train or bus, both very inexpensive and fairly quick (about US$0.25 for the 30 minute trip!).

If you land after 23:00, though, you’ll need to take a taxi to the city center for around 25GEL (about US$10) if you’re a keen negotiator.

Transportation to the best things to do in Tbilisi

Transportation in Tbilisi is one part of the infrastructure that hasn’t quite caught up to the rest of the efforts in the city.

There are some fabulous sites to visit that will reveal Tbilisi’s past but getting to them can sometimes be a challenge.

You could drive yourself in a cheap rental car, but then you’ll have a difficult time finding parking and the streets aren’t signed as well as they could be.

Our favorite Tbilisi dish was this eggplant stuffed with a garlic walnut paste.

There are minibusses that drive throughout the city, but we couldn’t find enough information to make them useful to anyone but a local.

There is a metro system, providing connections between the various parts of the city, but it won’t get you very close to most of the main sites and this is a hard city to walk with broken or missing sidewalks, difficult street crossings, and major construction sites.

The metro system is old and undergoing updates with plans to extend coverage, hopefully, this may improve in the future.

How to Get Around to the Best Places to Visit in Tbilisi With Taxis

The best way to get around Tbilisi, especially on a short stay, is to use a combination of metro and taxi. Taxis are cheap and plentiful.

The drivers may be difficult to communicate with, most don’t speak a lot of English, but we were able to get around the city with very few problems.

Cabs don’t always use a meter system. It’s better to have a good idea of what the ride should cost and then negotiate as close to that cost as possible before climbing aboard.

We would ask at our hotel or at a restaurant to get an idea of what it should cost to get somewhere and use that information to set our price.

Despite the initial hassle of haggling, once the price was set and we were on the road, each of our cab drivers became friendly, founts of information about Georgia and Tbilisi.

I’m sure it would be a simple thing to negotiate a one-day or two-day driver at a very affordable price which would make the sights even easier to visit.

1. Sameba Cathedral

Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral glowing in the evening light.

Standing tall and overlooking the city like a shepherd watching over his sheep, stands the gleaming, gold-topped Cathedral of Sameba also known as the Church of the Holy Trinity. And a visit here is easily one of the best things to do in Tbilisi!

The plans for this massive Orthodox church were begun even before Georgia separated itself off from the Soviet Union, but construction didn’t start until 1995.

Progress was slow and costly and didn’t actually finish until 2004, and now the cathedral stands as a symbol of national unity and spiritual revival.

On the day we visited, the cathedral had been taken over by the military for a somber memorial.

2. Tbilisi Old Town

Old wooden buildings and wrought iron balconies in Tbilisi old town.

Old wooden houses with wrought iron balconies make up the traditional Georgian architecture. And a walk through the old town is the best way to experience it.

Bring your camera as these are some photogenic buildings. The grime and grit of the past two hundred years has added a rich patina. You can’t help but feel that each of these houses has an epic tale to tell.

3. Sulfur Baths

Tbilisi's brick domed bath houses with cathedral in the background.

Baths dating back to Roman times have been found in Tbilisi. However, the baths at the edge of the Old Town haven’t been around quite so long.

The oldest, Bathhouse #5, is only a mere 300 years old. Inside the tiles and tubs are beautiful and everywhere you’ll find a cloud of welcoming steam.

Stop in for a soak, a massage, or a Turkish-style skin peel in the same bathhouse where Pushkin once bathed. You’ll leave relaxed and recharged after enjoying one of the best places to visit in Tbilisi.

Bath house number five placard shows the date of the earliest bath house in modern Tbilisi.

4. Narikala Fortress

Tbilisi's "iron maiden" watches over the city.

The tall stone walls and battlements aren’t really protecting anything any longer. Instead they rest overlooking the old town and the sulfur baths which they have protected since the 4th century.

You can spend an hour here, scrambling around the walls and towers, discovering some amazing city view points.

5. Bridge of Peace

The Bridge of Peace offers some unique views of the old town, Narikala Fortress, and the Presidential Palace.

By day it’s a futuristic architectural pedestrian bridge, but by night the structure is lit up and becomes a standalone light show. It is a completely unique experience and should be visited both day and night.

6. Rope Way

OK, this may not technically be a site to visit, but it is a fun way to get up to the fortress! These cable cars are part of the city metro system so you’ll need a metro card to ride it.

Luckily you can purchase these at the entrance. Again, the views from the rope way are stunning as it lifts you up over the river and the Old Town.

7. Funicular and Amusement Park

I just can’t pass up a funicular. I don’t know what it is but these gravity-defying trains just call to me. This funicular will lift you up the mountainside to more stunning city views.

You’ll also be able to take a break and enjoy a coffee and piece of cake or tort at the funicular cafe. While you’re up there, why not put the kids on a ride or two at Mtatsminda Park.

Funicular car rising to the top of the line at Mtatsuminda Park.

8. Jumah Mosque

Climbing up into Old Town, around towards the sulfur baths, and snug up below the fortress you’ll find the Jumah Mosque perched on the hillside.

This beautiful structure is as much a symbol of national unity and spirituality as the Sameba cathedral across the river.

Here this old mosque stands in one of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods, with churches, mosques, and synagogues for neighbors.

Interior view of Jumah Mosque in Tbilisi, Georgia.

9. Georgian Food

Five variations of khinkali ready to eat.

Georgian Food is pretty spectacular. We learned a lot from this Georgian food guide before we went and tried to taste all them. My favorite are Khinkali , meat-filled dumplings can be found throughout Georgia, and a trip to Tbilisi wouldn’t be complete without sampling these doughy culinary treats.

Be careful when you eat them, however, as there is a right way and a wrong way. The right way: put down the knife and fork, this is finger food; pick it up by the knot at the top and take a big slurping bite out of the bottom.

Be careful to catch all of the steaming, soupy broth before it runs down your fingers. Then finish off the dumpling with one last bite down to the knot.

Order a plate of traditional all meat or mix and match some of the more adventurous fillings like potato and cheese.

We had so much great food, other than just Khinkali. The eggplant rolls, Kachapuri – eggy, cheesy bread, Shkmeruli – chicken in milk , Lobio – a hearty bean soup, and any kind of dolma all stand out as Georgian culinary treasures.

Dolma means stuffed, and just like in Turkish food, you can stuff anything with meat and rice and I’ll love it.

10. Georgian National Ballet

If you’re lucky you can catch a performance by the world renown Georgian National Ballet at the National Opera and Ballet theater.

The easiest way to check on this is to ask at your hotel front desk or stop by the Tbilisi Information Center. In fact, they can call and check on showtimes and availability and the Tourist Office can even book your tickets for you.

We weren’t so lucky and had to settle for the dinner show at Old Metekhi Chrdili, which was fine, but not quite the same thing.

Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater 25 Rustaveli Ave, 0103 Tbilisi, Georgia

Eggplant stuffed with a garlic walnut paste, one of the delicious foods to try in Georgia.

Where To Eat in Tbilisi

Dinner with a show at Metekhis Chrdili 29-25 Ketevan Tsamebuli Ave. (41.688725, 44.820889)

Upscale wine bistro at the Bread House 7 Vakhtang Gorgasali St, (41.688571, 44.812581)

Have khinkali at a good traditional restaurant near old town at Chashnagiri Leselidze 25 Kote Afkhazi St, (41.693252, 44.804550)

Jim walking on the roofs of the sulfur spring baths in Tbilisi.

So what is the terrible truth about Tbilisi? Well, aside from a great alliterative title, the truth is Tbilisi is a city still emerging from Soviet era occupation and internal struggles marked with atrocities and hatred.

For me, however, perception is truth, and my perception of Tbilisi is one of cautious optimism. My recommendation is that you put the past in the past and go to Tbilisi and see it for yourself!

More Photos Of The Best Things to do in Tbilisi

The entrance to the famous public bath number 5 in Tbilisi.

Pin Tbilisi Top Ten for later.

Author Bio: Jim Vail , is a travel, food, and video creator and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 15 years. For many years he lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands, and he’s visited over 90 countries.

Tara @ Soviet Suitcase

Wednesday 22nd of May 2019

Definitely accurate that there is a distinct lack of written and easily accessible information about travel in Tbilisi and also throughout Georgia (although one of the aims of my blog is to try and reverse that one day!). Although did you know in Tbilisi you can use Google Maps to plan your journeys on public transport with surprising accuracy! Did you have a chance to go to the Puppet Theatre or the Ethnographic Museum? Those are in my top 10 Tbilisi highlights!

Corinne Vail

We did not go to the Puppet Theatre...maybe next time.

Monday 23rd of January 2017

THANKS FOR YOUR NICE ARTICLE AND PHOTOS

Tuesday 24th of January 2017

Thanks Noor

Rhonda Albom

Monday 22nd of August 2016

Tbilisi looks like a fascinating city to visit. Your first picture is interesting in that the outer ring of apartment buildings appears drastically different than the old town and smaller homes. Perhaps built during a communist regime to house the masses?

Rhonda, I'm sure that's right. There are plenty of Soviet buildings all over the country, and I have more to post so stay tuned!

Friday 12th of August 2016

Mike, Tbilisi is a great city and you will really enjoy it. We're are well, just busy. I hope the same for you!

Stephen Garone

Thursday 11th of August 2016

Great stuff! Thanks for sharing. Have to start planning a trip there now...

Stephen, You will love it!

Asia , Destinations , Europe , Georgia , Reader's Favorite Posts

12 Must See Places in Tbilisi, Georgia

August 14, 2020
Updated January 18, 2021

The heart of the Caucasus, Tbilisi is one of the world’s oldest human settlements — dating back to 4,000 BC! Today, Tbilisi has a creative scene that blends new and old, east and west – making the vibe of the city insanely cool.

Drew and I loved strolling through Old Tbilisi’s labyrinth of old cobblestone streets, spotting the dome-shaped sulfur baths, and admiring the beautiful homes with wooden verandas. I could have stayed just in this one area and snapped photos for days!

However, there is so much more to explore in Tbilisi than just the Old Town. And, one of the best things is that Tbilisi is totally walkable! Here are the best things to see when you’re exploring Tbilisi.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that, at no cost to you, may earn me a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. Read my full disclosure policy.

Freedom Square

A good starting point for anyone visiting Tbilisi is Freedom Square (or Liberty Square). This is hands down the most hectic spot in the city because it seems as though everything is located near here or goes through here.

There’s a lot of history here. Freedom Square used to be called Lenin Square and — where today you’ll see a statue of Saint George and the Dragon – there used to be a statue of Lenin. Lenin’s statue was promptly pulled down after Georgia gained its independence in 1991.

Georgia national opera and freedom square tbilisi

Head North at Freedom Square and you’ll get to Rustaveli Avenue which is home to the city’s cultural buildings and major shopping mall (Galleria Tbilisi) . If you want to stock up on some food for your AirBnB in Tbilisi, Galleria Tbilisi also houses a supermarket called Goodwill. Stroll down the wide avenue and you’ll see the Georgia National Opera (which has a super interesting façade), the Rustaveli Theatre , and the National Museum .

The Coolest Airbnbs in Tbilisi, Georgia

Dry Bridge Flea Market

We absolutely love finding good markets when we travel. Whether it’s fruits and vegetables, meats, or antiques – we’re there!

And strolling around the Dry Bridge Flea Market in Tbilisi did not disappoint! The hodgepodge of things for sale made turning every corner and exploring every stall an adventure.

You’ll find vendors selling everything from vintage cameras (my personal favorite) and Soviet buttons, to antique lighting and handmade crafts and paintings.

The Dry Bridge Flea Market is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm and they only accept cash. It is expected that customers haggle. English is spoken very little, but everyone we encountered was super friendly and curious about us.

If you love flea markets like we do, check out the Soviet Market flea market as well. Located in Daedena Park , the Soviet flea market – as its name implies – sells all sorts of Soviet artifacts – from interesting (coins) to creepy (gas masks) and more.

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Old Tbilisi

Feel free to put down the map and just wander around the streets in Old Tbilisi. This is the best thing to see in Tbilisi! Old Tbilisi is full of beautiful homes with colorful wooden balconies, ancient churches – making it perfect for a leisurely stroll snapping some pictures.

Recommended Guided Tours

The narrow streets wind around showcasing a range of architecture styles, foreign influences, and centuries of development.

Everywhere you turn you’ll find a beautiful old building or café. While you’re walking around, make a point to try and peek into some open doors. You’ll get a glimpse at some real architectural beauties!

If you are more of a structured traveler, consider this 4-hour walking tour with wine tasting or this photography tour around Old Town.

There are also free walking tours to consider that are simply fantastic! Drew and I took the “Hidden Tbilisi” tour which took us to the unseen and hidden places of Tbilisi. The guides highlighted some of Tbilisi’s most unique architecture, private backyards, and courtyard entrances. Their knowledge bombs and quirky facts made this a definite highlight over touring alone.

If you do one of these free walking tours, please remember that your guides do not get paid unless you tip them. Please tip your guide at the end of the tour.

Anchiskhati Basilica & Clock Tower

The Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church of the city.

If you’re around at noon or 7pm, head to the clock tower to see a small puppet show presenting the circle of life. Otherwise, each hour a small angel comes out and rings a bell with a hammer. And while this clock tower might look old due to its precarious and perpetual lean, it was actually built in 2011.

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Before 1951, Tbilisi was home to two mosques – one for the Sunnis (Jumah Mosque) and another for the Shias (Blue Mosque). However, in 1951, the Blue Mosque was demolished by the Communist government.

“Recognizing that the Shia community had nowhere to go, the Jumah Mosque opened its doors to them, making it one of the only mosques in the world where the two sects worship together.” – Atlas Obscura

Come for the beautiful building, stay for the history.

Tbilisi’s Sulfur Baths

“Tbilisi” directly translates to “warm place” — so you know you have to make a stop into the sulfur baths when you’re looking for things to see in Tbilisi!

Abanotubani – or the “Bath District” – is across from the Metekhi Bridge. It’s hard to miss – with its brick domes scattered all along the ground. If you have some time you should definitely head inside to relax and enjoy the sulfur baths.

Not only are they relaxing, but mineral baths like those found in Abanotubani are supposed to have healing properties as well. Soaking here is said to aid conditions like acne and eczema, as well as digestion, insomnia, and even arthritis.

You can get a private room for about 140 GEL or $45 USD.

While you’re in the area, take a peek into the outside courtyard of the Tbilisi Antique Archeological Museum. You’ll get a glimpse at how wine was first made in jugs buried underground.

Tbilisi Georgia Fig Gorge Botanical Gardens

From the sulfur baths, head towards the Legvtahevi Gorge (“Gorge of Figs”) . It’s a beautiful walk that ends with a small waterfall coming from the Botanical Gardens.

Recommended Day Trips From Tbilisi

Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress overlooks the Bath District. Built in the 4 th century – is the only remaining citadel of the city.

Wear some good shoes for this steep walk — or you could take the aerial cable car (about 2 GEL / $0.65 USD) from Rike Park for a bird’s-eye view of the city.

From the Narikala Fortress, you’ll have amazing views of Old Tbilisi, the river, and Peace Bridge. Don’t miss seeing the 65-foot tall Mother of Georgia Statue ( Kartlis Deda ) while you’re visiting Narikala Fortress.

The Kartlis Deda statue symbolizes the Georgian national character – warm and welcoming to visitors while fiercely fighting off enemies. In her left hand she welcomes friendly guests with a bowl of wine. However, her right hand holds a sword for those who come to Georgia as enemies – a message that literally points to Russia.

Tbilisi Georgia Mother of Georgia Kartlis Deda

Pro Tip – Head up to Narikala Fortress to watch the sunset. You’ll watch the city come to life from your perch up on the mountain.

Rike Park & Peace Bridge

Rike Park is a beautiful place to grab a blanket and some local wine and enjoy and nice afternoon. The park is full of beautiful fountains, small pools, and even a giant chess board.

The thing to really take in here, besides the views of Old Tbilisi, is Peace Bridge. This pedestrian bridge, which opened in 2010, has become one of the most iconic images of the city.

This might sound weird, but one of our favorite things in Rike Park was a recycling can . You read that right – a recycling can! Tbilisi has a recycling scheme where you surrender your used plastic bottles in this electronic collector as a “payment” of sorts. Then dog food spits out of the bottom to feed homeless dogs. We fed the cutest – and fattest – stray pup there. It’s such a great idea!

On this side of the river (opposite Old Tbilisi) you’ll find the Metekhi Church of Assumption built by Georgian kind St Demetrius II in the late 13 th century. From there, stop over and see King Gorgasali’s statue – Tbilisi’s founder — on a wall at Metekhi. You can also get here by crossing the Metekhi Bridge. Stop off at the “I Heart Tbilisi” sign before you cross the bridge to get a good touristy photo!

Shardeni Street

Your trip to Tbilisi will not be complete without a walk down Shardeni Street! This pedestrian street is busting at the seams with restaurants, open-air cafes, bars, and nightclubs. It’s also the perfect place to get some great pictures. The hanging string lights and eclectic architecture make it picture perfect.

Shardeni Street is definitely one of the most beautiful – and photographed – streets in Tbilisi.

Sameba Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi — commonly known as the Sameba Cathedral — is the third-tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the world and one of the world’s largest religious buildings.

It dominates the skyline of Tbilisi – and much like the Peace Bridge – its beauty, or lack thereof, is hotly contested by locals. I personally think it’s beautiful and should be a stop for architecture lovers.

To see the oldest church in Georgia , stop by Anchiskhati Basilica of Saint Mary located in Old Tbilisi. It was built in the 6th century though it has gone through extensive renovations since then.

What you can Expect to Pay in Tbilisi

> Lodging: $20 (wallet-friendly) vs $40 (average) per night. > Coffee: Around $1.25 > Dinner: $22 (two people, three courses) > Beer: $1

About Sarah

Sarah hails from the land of fried chicken, sweet tea, buttered biscuits, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet…Alabama! She loves exploring undertouristed locations and sharing them with you.

Outfit Ideas

Enjoy your trip to Tbilisi, Georgia while staying comfortable and stylish with these outfit ideas.

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The Best Things to See in Tbilisi, Georgia | Strolling through Old Tbilisi’s cobblestone streets and admiring the city’s beautiful homes and colorful wooden verandas is great. However, there is so much more to explore in Tbilisi than just the Old Town. One of the best things is that every spot mentioned in this post is totally walkable! Here are the best things to see when you’re exploring Tbilisi. Get more travel itineraries, tips, and inspiration at www.youfoundsarah.com #tbilisigeorgia #tbilisigeorgiatravel #tbilisiarchitecture #tbilisigeorgiaarchitecture #tbilisi #georgia #caucasus

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As always, everything on this site is completely free. If you found this post (or anything on YouFoundSarah.com ) useful, I’d be grateful if you considered using the affiliate links below. I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. These are the services Drew and I love to use ourselves when we plan our travels. Thanks for your support!

— Sarah

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Before you go...

When Is The Best Time...

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tbilisi?

Summer is hot in Tbilisi, so remember to keep hydrated as you stroll alongside the Kura River

Tbilisi enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. Spring in the capital of Georgia is short and warm, sunny days turn into hot summer months by late April. Summers are quite hot and humid, while autumn and winter are reasonably mild – it rarely snows in the capital. We’ve run through the best months to visit Tbilisi.

You can now visit Tbilisi and a whole host of other fantastic destinations with Culture Trip on our epic nine-day Georgia adventure, led by our local insider .

Winter months in Tbilisi are laid-back, especially during January when the nation celebrates New Year for at least two weeks. Georgians follow the Orthodox Calendar, so New Year is a much bigger deal than Christmas. They celebrate Christmas on 7 January and the Orthodox New Year on 14 January. If you’d like to experience how locals celebrate this holiday, the first weeks of the month are a perfect time for your visit. Moreover, there’s a religious procession every year on 7 January called Alilo, in which people walk from Rose Revolution Square to the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Rainfall: 4 days

Temperature: 41F (5C)

There’s an annual religious procession in Tbilisi on 7 January named Alilo

February is equally laid-back. The weather is similar to January: a bit cold during the day, even if the sun is shining. There are no special holidays or celebrations in this month and locals start to count down the days to spring. However, you can still have a pleasant walk in the city centre, exploring the backstreets, visiting museums and indulging in tasty Georgian cuisine .

Locals have dubbed March the ‘crazy’ month, as the weather changes numerous times per day. Even though this is the month that ushers in spring, the weather can still be wintery: it can be gloomy in the morning and sunny in the afternoon, or it can rain suddenly on a warm sunny day. Come prepared with an umbrella or raincoat. Nature starts to flourish from the second half of the month, making Tbilisi a perfect backdrop for your Instagram.

Rainfall: 5 days

Temperature: 50F (10C)

Flowers begin to bloom in the second half of March

In April, the weather is warm and it becomes pleasant to walk around the city and take day trips from Tbilisi. The first few days may still be chilly, but as the weeks go by, the weather gets warmer and you’ll notice more people sitting in the parks and recreational areas. Georgian Easter typically falls in April, depending on the Orthodox calendar. Georgians also mark 9 April, the day of the 1989 tragedy when an anti-Soviet demonstration was dispersed by the Soviet Army, resulting in 21 deaths and hundreds of injuries – it’s now a public holiday known as the Day of National Unity. The Parliament of Georgia was the epicentre of the event, so you’ll see many bouquets laying around this area.

Rainfall: 7 days

Temperature: 59F (15C)

Locals love May, when the weather is warm enough to wear light clothes but not as hot as summer. There are also several public holidays and events throughout the month. On 9 May, the country celebrates Victory Over Fascism, so you’ll see veterans in their uniforms in Vake Park and lots of bouquets on monuments throughout the city. On 26 May is Independence Day. The central roads are closed for cars to allow for a military procession and speeches by the President and government representatives. There’s also a fair on Rustaveli Avenue where the different ministries have their stands and showcase their achievements to the public.

Additionally, the city hosts the New Wine Festival in the first weeks of the month, where you can try wines from late-harvest grapes made either by traditional or European methods. For book lovers, Tbilisi hosts an international book fair where local publishers and bookstores exhibit their products with promotional prices. Documentary film lovers will appreciate a CinéDOC-Tbilisi film festival, which brings some of the most influential movies to the capital.

Rainfall: 9 days

Temperature: 68F (20C)

There’s an annual military parade on 26 May to mark Independence Day

June is a great month for those who don’t like the sweltering summer heat. Locals love spending days outdoors, either at the terrace cafes, parks or at the festivals. In June, Tbilisi Open Air hosts music festivals in the outskirts of Tbilisi, bringing together local and international artists of rock and electronic music. Moreover, you’ll see many locals at Lisi and Turtle Lakes, appreciating their spare time with family and loved ones.

Rainfall: 8 days

Temperature: 77F (25C)

The temperature slowly gets higher from the month of July, and many locals take a vacation to either a Black Sea coast or abroad. However, those who stay in the city try to escape the heat at the neighbouring Lisi and Turtle Lakes. Additionally, the city hosts a traditional folk festival called Art Gene at the Ethnographic Museum of Tbilisi, where local bands and dance ensembles host concerts. Do remember, however, there is no air conditioning in the public transport or many of the museums, so stay hydrated.

July brings the traditional folk festival Art Gene

Usually, August is quite hot in Tbilisi and many can’t take the heat. If you are one of these people, it’s better to stay in Tbilisi for only a couple of days before moving on to either the lowlands or mountain regions of the country. The city tends to be a bit deserted for at least half of the month as many vacation to Batumi or other parts of the country. Those who stay try to escape the hot summer evenings at open-air bars or parks.

Temperature: 86F (30C)

Autumn in Tbilisi is beautiful, with falling leaves and colourful nature. The weather still stays warm, so it’s still pleasant to wander around the city. It’s in September the city celebrates Tbilisoba, the day of Tbilisi. The exact date of the foundation of Tbilisi is unknown, and the celebration might change date from year to year. Previously it was held on the last weekend of October when the grape harvest was over. But the festivities have been moved to the sunny days of September instead.

The end of the month also brings Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre that continues through to the beginning of October. The festival includes international and local theatre companies, masterclasses, exhibitions and workshops.

The Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre is a major event in the Georgian artistic calendar

The weather from October usually starts to get chillier. However, it’s still mild enough to explore the city – just bring a jacket and umbrella with you. The outdoor activities might be limited due to the weather, but there are plenty of things you can do. On 14 October, Georgia celebrates Svetitskhovloba, so make sure to visit Mtskheta and attend the celebration there. You can also enjoy plays in the theatre, listen to live music in various bars, visit museums, attend Kolga Photo Festival or try all sorts of local wines in the wine bars .

November can get quite cold and wet, limiting the things you can see and do. It’s not the best time to visit Tbilisi compared to other months of the year; however, the prices for accommodation and flights do drop rapidly and you might get a great deal. Fortunately, there are some events you can still enjoy despite the weather. For instance, Tbilisi Jazz Festival brings internationally acclaimed jazz artists to the city and is one of the most beloved local events. Meanwhile, photography lovers can visit Tbilisi Photo Festival and see the works of Asian, European and Middle Eastern photographers.

Music lovers descend on the Georgian capital in November for the Tbilisi International Jazz Festival

December is one of the most boring months in Tbilisi, as there are not many cultural events happening in the city. The weather is a bit too cold for walking around and it rarely snows. When the nearby mountains are snow-covered, many winter sports-loving locals flock to the closest ski resort, Gudauri. Towards the end of the month, everything gets hectic in preparation for the New Year.

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Wander-Lush

The Best Time to Visit Georgia: Month by Month Comparison

When is the best time of year to visit the country of Georgia? Find the answers you’re looking for in this month-by-month guide to weather in Georgia, seasonal activities, festivals, events and more.

Trying to figure out the ideal month (or even just the best season) to visit Georgia can be tricky. For such a tiny country, Georgia has a very diverse geography and climate – the east differs vastly to the west, while the different mountain regions and coast have their own microclimates.

This means there’s no definitive ‘best time to visit Georgia’: Every season offers something different.

Having said that, there are certainly months that are better suited to travel – and a few times of year you should try to avoid.

I’ve lived in Georgia for over three years now and have experienced every season. This guide draws on my knowledge to give you a seasonal overview and month-by-month breakdown of weather to help you decide the best time to travel to Georgia for your interests.

I’ll also cover the best places to visit in each season plus key festivals and events to plan your trip around.

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.

Travel Georgia Like a Pro

Planning a trip to Georgia? Here are 5 essential resources that I recommend you check out.

For private transfers in Georgia: GoTrip.ge . Find a professional, English-speaking driver. Prices are locked in when you book & you can stop wherever you want.
For hiring a car in Georgia: Local Rent . Save money when you rent directly from a local agent. Pick-up & drop-off are available from any address in Georgia.
For finding accommodations: Booking.com . This website has the biggest selection of properties in Georgia, including guesthouses in rural areas.
For Tbilisi tours & day trips: Friendly.ge . Friendly.ge has knowledgeable guides, safe drivers & creative itineraries. I especially like their off-road tour to David Gareja.
For tailored advice: Book a call with me! My Georgia Travel Consultation service is perfect if you need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips.

Understanding the climate in Georgia

I don’t want to dwell too much on this, but having a general understanding of Georgia’s climate can be useful.

Briefly, eastern Georgia has a Mediterranean-like climate, while the west of the country and Black Sea Coast has subtropical conditions. Tbilisi is dry, while Batumi and the coast are humid. As mentioned, the weather varies immensely from north to south, east to west.

There are four seasons in Georgia, but spring and autumn are generally short and pronounced. Summer lingers well into September in many parts of the country, while areas at higher elevations have prolonged winters. The major cities of Tbilisi , Kutaisi and Batumi are mild year-round (relatively speaking).

The east of Georgia (including Tbilisi and Kakheti region ) is dry and sees more dramatic seasons: Summers are unforgiving and winters bitter. Parts of Southern Georgia (especially Samtskhe-Javakheti region ) are under snow more often than not. The west of Georgia , by contrast, is warmer, wetter and more humid. Temperatures are more consistent here throughout the year, as are the menacing rain clouds.

One thing the whole country has in common is that the weather can be quite temperamental. Gusting winds can take the temperature up or down by 10 degrees Celsius in a matter of days, and storms and impenetrable fog can roll in extremely quickly.

While I can offer you some general guidance, you should always come prepared for anything!

Tip: This website is generally considered to be the most reliable for forecasts.

Tip: See my all-seasons Georgia packing list for guidance on what to bring with you and how to dress in Georgia.

Map of the best time to visit Georgia by location

Here is a rough map of popular destinations in Georgia with my recommendations for the ‘best’ time to go. Of course this is a bit subjective, but I’ve taken into account the average temperatures and rain fall, as well as special events and other factors.

Map of the best time to visit the country of Georgia.

Summer high season in Georgia: Late June-early September

→ Best time for mountain hiking & beaches on the Black Sea coast.

Lailashi Secret Pool, a mountain pool in Racha, Georgia.

In Tbilisi and the lowlands around the capital, summer is dependably hot and arid. The landscape dries out to a crisp brown in early summer, and the unrelenting sunshine makes it difficult to stay outside for more than a few hours at a time.

The very warm weather (where temperatures can push 40 degrees Celsius in the shade for several consecutive days) generally sets in around mid-June and builds throughout July before peaking in August.

Most locals promptly leave the cities as soon as school holidays roll around in July, heading to the mountains or the coast for some reprieve. Because of this, popular hotels and resorts are often full, and domestic flights and trains sold out. It can be difficult to get a seat on the Tbilisi Batumi train especially. Prices go up with increased demand.

One advantage of summer travel is that the days are much longer (the sun sets well after 9pm by late June), so you can fit a lot more into your day.

Say no to sweaty marshrutka vans – summer is a great time for a Georgia road trip instead. All roads and passes are open and accessible, just watch out for flash flooding and landslides in the highlands.

Summer is prime time for trekking in the mountains of Svaneti and around Kazbegi . The wildflowers are out, and daytime temperatures are pleasant, while evenings bring short but punishing storms.

This is the best time of year to visit Tusheti , Upper Adjara, Gomismta and Bakhmaro, which are all difficult (or impossible) to reach during the colder months.

In mid-September, ‘Velvet Season’ kicks off in Batumi and along the Black Sea coast and lasts until early October. This is a short window of time when crowds disperse but skies remain clear and the water is still warm enough to swim.

→ See my guide to beating the heat in Tbilisi in summer

Autumn shoulder season in Georgia: Late September-October

→ Best time for wine & cultural events.

September is sometimes referred to as the ‘fourth month of summer’ because temperatures remain warm in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and the lowlands. By mid-September and throughout the month of October, the weather is usually near perfect: Warm, breezy days, crisp nights, and clear skies. The only downside is the gusting winds that hit Tbilisi and Kutaisi – something to be mindful of if you suffer from allergies.

Autumn is my favourite time of year in and the best season to visit Georgia in my opinion. Tbilisi has an upbeat atmosphere, with outdoor markets on Rustaveli Avenue, the annual Tbilisoba festival in October, and plenty of live music , opera and ballet.

Harvest season brings a festive feel to the entire country – which is why you’ll sometimes hear autumn referred to by another name, the ‘fifth season’. Dates for the wine vintage or Rtveli differ year to year, but generally it takes place in Kakheti from early September and lasts until early November in western Georgia.

Resplendent fall foliage can be found in the highlands of Racha and Samegrelo from as early as September, while Tbilisi’s fall colours come into their own in October. Rust-coloured foliage is visible in areas such as Rkoni until November.

Autumn also brings a cornucopia of produce, including mushrooms, pomegranates and persimmons. Tbilisi restaurants often put on special menus to showcase fall’s bounty.

Most mountain areas and trails remain accessible throughout September and into early October.

→ See my guide to the best places to visit in Georgia in autumn

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn

Winter low season in Georgia: November-March

→ Best time for winter sports or a quiet city break.

Relatively mild winters in Tbilisi make the city quite pleasant between November and March, especially when the sun is shining. Snow in Tbilisi is a rarity but there may be a few flurry days right at the end of the season, usually in late February or early March. With quiet streets, snug wine bars and the thermal baths at your disposal, Tbilisi is wonderful for a winter city break.

Conditions are freezing in the highlands, but mountain areas that are still accessible by road are a winter wonderland. The highways to Kazbegi and Svaneti remain open throughout winter (only closing temporarily in case of avalanche risk or heavy snow). Along with lower Racha, these mountain regions are the perfect place to snuggle up in a cosy cabin .

Winter sports season at Georgia’s ski resorts in Gudauri, Bakuriani , Goderdzi, Hatsvali and Tetnuldi usually starts from late December and runs through until April. It gets extremely busy in Gudauri and Bakuriani especially, so I don’t recommend staying here unless you are skiing.

→ See my guide to the best places to visit in Georgia in winter

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in winter

→ See my photos of snow in Tbilisi

→ See my beginner’s guide to skiing in Georgia

Spring shoulder season in Georgia: April-early June

→ Best time for hiking at lower elevations & exploring the cities.

Spring pink blossoms in Batumi, Georgia.

You know it’s spring in Tbilisi when powder-pink cherry, plum and magnolia blossoms start to appear. In Kakheti, lavender shrubs and sunflowers come into bloom, while wildflowers in the mountains take their turn later in June and July.

‘Moody March’ is very unpredictable all across the country, with gusting (pollen-laden) winds and sometimes snow. The start of April can still be quite chilly.

In the east of Georgia, the weather seems to shift towards being warm right after Orthodox Easter (I know that doesn’t make much sense since the dates change every year, but it just does!), while temperatures are already rising in Kutaisi and the west by mid-month. Nights remain pleasantly cool until early June. But rain is common in most parts of the country and can put a dampener on your plans.

Georgia’s rich Orthodox traditions are on full display in the lead up to Easter, while spring also brings vibrant produce and special foods such as chakapuli (lamb, sour plum and tarragon stew) and paska , a traditional Georgian cake .

Spring is the time when vintners open their clay qvevri for the first taste of last year’s harvest. This is a wonderful tradition to observe if you can organise to visit a cellar . The New Wine Festival and Zero Compromise Natural Wine Festival both take place in Tbilisi in May, drawing hundreds of winemakers from around the country for tastings and a food bonanza.

On the Black Sea Coast, spring is normally grey and wet. It’s still too brisk for any serious hiking in the Greater Caucasus. Instead, spring is better suited to hiking at lower elevations, e.g. around Borjomi and Lagodekhi national parks .

→ See my guide on where to go in Georgia in spring

→ See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in spring

When is the best month to visit Georgia?

Now that you have a rough idea of the seasons in Georgia, here is a month-by-month breakdown of weather and conditions.

I’ve also included major holidays and events to look out for, plus my tips for where to go and where to avoid for each month of the year.

Traditional Chichilaki Christmas trees on display in Tbilisi in January.

January in Georgia

Temperatures in Tbilisi are relatively mild, hovering around 5-10 degrees Celsius during the middle of the day. Without the ice, sleet and drizzle typical of other European capitals, the city is quite pleasant throughout the month – especially on clear, crisp blue-sky days, of which there are many. The best way to warm up on a wintry evening is with a session at the sulfur baths .

Conditions are similarly cold but wetter in the west, while snowfall nears its peak in the mountains. High passes that close off in October/November remain inaccessible throughout winter , so this is not a time for hiking or visiting remote villages.

Orthodox Christmas falls a fortnight or so after Roman Catholic Christmas, meaning Georgia celebrates its second-biggest religious holiday in early January. Christmas is traditionally a time for family, but visitors can revel in December 31 celebrations .

As well as marking the International New Year, this is the biggest evening on the Christmas calendar (a hangover from Soviet times ) and sees a massive fireworks display take over the streets of Tbilisi. Crackers and rockets spring from windows and street corners at every angle – you’ve never seen or heard anything like it.

January 2 is Bedoba, a unique tradition where one is obliged to treat oneself and others in order to set the tone for the year ahead. A wine tasting could be just the thing.

The Alilo Parade takes place on Orthodox Christmas Day (January 7) with a procession through the streets of Tbilisi. Orthodox Epiphany in mid-January designates the official end of the holiday season, and the decorations come down shortly before that.

Unique traditions can be observed in the mountains during winter, including Lipanali , a day-of-the-dead-like commemoration in Svaneti that starts on Epiphany eve.

A woman stands in a vineyard against a backdrop of blue mountains.

February in Georgia

February is cool and fresh in the cities. Or it could be grey and miserable. You never know!

Winter sports season really starts to take off on the slopes of Bakuriani and Gudauri in particular, making this a great time for skiing or snowboarding. Traditionally, Mestia and Gudauri both have their highest number of snowy days in February.

February is the coldest month of the year for most of the country so remember to pack your woollens. Snow has been known to fall in Tbilisi (and even Batumi) towards the end of the month – but it almost always melts away by nightfall.

This is a great month for riding the Kukushka train in Bakuriani (currently out of commission, sadly), snowshoe hiking, lounging in a natural hot spring , or viewing the stone towers in Ushguli on a bed of snow.

The Russia-Georgia Friendship monument in Gudauri, covered in snow.

March in Georgia

March (AKA ‘Mad March’ or ‘Moody March’) is a transition month in Georgia and the weather is normally very unpredictable as a result. Generally speaking, temperatures sit at around 7-12 degrees Celsius in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and the lowlands, while the mountain regions are still frosty. But in reality you should expect anything: Storms, gusting winds, snow, sun – or all of the above!

Snowfall remains steady in Gudauri and Mestia before trailing off at the start of April, signifying the end of the ski season.

April in Georgia

April puts a full-stop on winter and is the definitive start of spring in Georgia. The mercury rises above 10 degrees Celsius in the cities and stays there. Tbilisi and Kutaisi are both a little rainy. On the plus side, Tbilisi’s parks are festooned with cherry and magnolia blossoms, giving the city a cheery atmosphere.

Being a predominantly Orthodox country, Georgia celebrates Easter after the Roman Catholic calendar. In 2024, Easter Sunday falls on May 5, meaning preparations will be underway throughout the second half of April.

Red Friday, Great Saturday, Easter Sunday and Bright Monday are all public holidays. Easter culminates with midnight liturgy on the Saturday/Sunday, where you can hear resplendent chanting. For something truly special, head to Lanchkhuti in Guria region for Lelo Burti , a cultural festival based around a traditional full-contact ball game.

Easter is traditionally preceded by 40 days of fasting. Look out for paska fruit cake being sold at bakeries. Another tradition is dying eggs red with Madder root and displaying them at home with green wheatgrass. You’ll see these items sold on the streets in the lead-up to Easter.

If you suffer from allergies, be aware that there is usually a lot of pollen and floral debris in the air towards the end of spring.

A man pours wine from a bottle into a glass.

May in Georgia

May is a crowd-pleaser and another of the best times to go to Georgia, with generally pleasant weather, hiking trails available at lower elevations, and a peaceful tempo in the cities. The downside is that the weather can still be unpredictable so you need to plan for anything. May brings rain to much of the country.

Still, it’s a nice time to visit the arid parts of eastern Georgia, including Vashlovani National Park and David Gareja Cave Monastery as it’s not too hot yet. The road to Tusheti normally opens at the end of May or in the first week of June. Spring arrives earlier in Kutaisi and Batumi. On May 2, Kutaisi celebrates Kutaisoba.

Kakheti is particularly nice in May, with blossoming flowers, budding vines, and the ceremonial cracking of the previous year’s qvevri. In Tbilisi, the New Wine Festival is held every May at Mtatsminda park , bringing more than 200 winemakers to the capital to showcase their latest concoctions. The cultural celebration includes bottomless tastings, live music and food.

May 26 is Independence Day, when Georgia commemorates its split from the Russian Empire in 1918. Part of Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi is closed to traffic and an open-air street festival takes over, with pop-up restaurants and bars, live music and a market.

A green hill with yellow wildflowers and large metal sculptures.

June in Georgia

In most parts of the country, the first half of June feels like a continuation of spring. Temperatures become pleasantly balmy and it’s not too crowded yet, making this a nice time to visit the cities, coast and even popular mountain areas such as Svaneti – which is plastered with wildflowers come summer.

At some point (usually around mid-June) the weather changes rapidly and it gets very hot in the cities. Travelling in marshrutka vans is almost unbearable, so it’s a great time to hire your own car , taking advantage of the longer days to venture out to Georgia’s harder-to-reach corners.

More hiking trails become available, with trekking season officially on by the third or fourth week of June. The ski lifts in Gudauri open to summer visitors at the end of the month. Overall, the mountains are spectacular in June, making this the best time to rent a secluded cabin or go glamping .

White Lotus Belle glamping tents in the mountains of Adjara, Georgia.

July in Georgia

Things really start to heat up in July and by the middle of the month, temperatures in Tbilisi are pushing 40 degrees Celsius in the shade. Kutaisi is similarly hot but with the added bonus of humidity, while Batumi is slightly cooler thanks to the sea breeze, but much more crowded.

The dynamics of Tbilisi shift in July as local families depart for the villages or the coast and tourists flood the city in their place. It’s far too hot and dry in Tbilisi for my liking – the better move is to follow the locals’ example and escape to the mountains or to a lake.

Everyone has the same idea though, so accommodation prices can be inflated and availability limited during July and August. Summer resorts such as Abastumani , Sairme and Borjomi are at maximum capacity (as is Batumi), while the mountain regions of Racha and Upper Adjara are a nice alternative.

July is a great time in Georgia for music lovers, with the Lagodekhi Blues Fest, the Black Sea Jazz Festival and GEM Fest in Anaklia all taking place.

Sunset over the water at Shekvetili beach on Georgia's Black Sea coast.

August in Georgia

Much like July, August brings oppressive heat to most of the country. It even starts to get hot under the collar in Svaneti and Kazbegi.

This is summer storm season in the mountains and the forecast often paints a grim picture – but in reality, downpours usually come in short, sharp bursts towards the end of the day, with clear periods in between.

Tbilisi is full of people and the Old Town especially can feel choked and claustrophobic. The only solution is to set up in the shade by a swimming pool , a tub of your favourite Georgian ice cream (or maybe a bottle of sparkling Pet Nat) on hand.

August is the hottest and most humid month of the year in Batumi, too. Combined with summer crowds that persist until the end of school holidays, it’s far from the best time to visit the Black Sea.

Instead, you’re better off making for the higher mountain ranges. Upper Adjara, Gomismta and Bakhmaro – sealed off in winter – are stunning in summer, their colourful A-frame cottages wreathed in green pastures.

Tusheti celebrates its biggest annual festival, Tushetoba, in August, with displays of folk music, dance, archery, horse racing and sheep-shearing. As with most festivals in Georgia , the exact dates are normally finalised a couple of weeks in advance.

In both Tusheti and Khevsureti, there are cycles of roving festivals that travel from village to village throughout the month of August.

A man stands on the wooden balcony of an old house in Kakheti.

September in Georgia

September is an auspicious time of year in Georgia as the Rtveli wine vintage formally begins. Harvest dates vary year to year depending on any number of factors. As a general rule, the plucking of grapes starts in the first weeks of September in Kakheti and continues throughout the month. In western Georgia’s wine regions, the harvest starts later and continues into October/November.

One of Georgia’s biggest music festivals, Tsinandali Festival, also takes place in September at the estate in Kakheti .

As summer peak season winds down, many mountain hotels , resorts and wine chateaux offer great deals during the month of September, making the end of the month a terrific time for budget travellers to visit. The start of September is ‘Velvet Season’ on the Black Sea coast, when it’s still warm enough to swim but far quieter. This is a great time to experience the beaches sans summer crowds.

Temperatures remain warm in Tbilisi, but cooler evenings take the edge off. The first of Georgia’s fall colours can be seen in September at higher altitudes around Racha, Kazbegi and Svaneti. Most hiking trails are still open throughout September.

Fall foliage in Georgia's Dashbashi Canyon.

October in Georgia

In the cities, festival season continues into October while in the mountains and rural areas, people start preparing for the fast-approaching winter. October is one of my favourite months in Georgia.

Tbilisi’s biggest celebration, Tbilisoba (‘Day of Tbilisi’), is normally held on the first weekend of the month and sees the entire Old Town transformed into an open-air carnival. The program includes a gastro market where farmers showcase their produce and wine, and folk performances on outdoor stages.

Meanwhile in Mtskheta , Svetitskhovloba is celebrated every year on October 14 with a street festival and mass-baptism. Both these events are worth timing your travels for.

Weather-wise, crisp temperatures become the norm, and fall colours start to show themselves at lower elevations. The best places for fall foliage include Samegrelo (especially around Martvili ), Bateti lake, and closer to Tbilisi near Rkoni, Dashbashi and Birtvisi Canyons, and Sabaduri Forest to the north.

One of the most spectacular October events is the Tusheti sheep drive, when shepherds deliver their flocks from high-altitude summer pastures down into the Alazani valley. Tusheti is well and truly closed to traffic by mid-month.

Kazbegi and Svaneti remain open throughout winter, only ever closing temporarily if there’s an avalanche risk, but it can be quite cold, wet and muddy in the mountains in October. Racha is the best mountain region to visit late in the season, because there are beautiful autumn colours and it’s usually not too wet.

Fall colours at Sairme Resort in November.

November in Georgia

Come November, temperatures drop dramatically in many parts of Georgia, with daytime averages almost halving in a matter of days. Fall colours linger on in Tbilisi for the first part of the month, making this a nice time to wander the city with your collar up against the wind.

Batumi on the other hand starts to live up to its reputation for being one of the wettest cities in Europe. November is usually the dampest month of the year on the coast. Combined with warm temperatures, it can feel unpleasantly sticky and cloying.

Kutaisi remains warm, while in Tbilisi, dance companies and performers return home after touring Europe during the summer to grace the stages of the Opera Theatre, New Theatre, and other venues.

Winter arrives early in the higher mountain regions, with snow starting to fall in Mestia and Gudauri by the middle of the month.

The Mother of Georgia statue in Tbilisi dusted with snow.

December in Georgia

By December, the whole country is in full winter mode. Temperatures generally remain above freezing in Tbilisi. This is one of the driest months of the year in the capital, so provided you have appropriate attire, it can be nice to get outdoors and test your mettle on one of the hiking trails around the city .

Kutaisi and Batumi have similar temperatures, but more rain.

Christmas lights and decorations go up in mid-December, with the biggest displays along Rustaveli Avenue, in Freedom Square and on Atoneli Street in the capital. December 25 is a normal working day and goes by without much fanfare in lieu of Orthodox Christmas celebrations in January .

December 31 is a huge affair, with Tbilisi being the best place in Georgia to ring in the New Year.

Final words: When is the best time to visit Georgia?

Georgia offers something different in every season, so when you choose to visit really depends on your interests and priorities.

Remember that the climate and therefore the weather varies dramatically between east and west, the mountains and lowlands.

Here are my general recommendations for when to visit Georgia:

For hiking & mountains: Late June to September
For cities & culture: April/May or September/October
For wine: September/October
For beaches: July/August
For skiing & snowboarding: February/March

Overall, September/October and April/May are by far my favourite times of year in Georgia. Even though spring weather can be volatile, temperatures are pleasant throughout most of the country.

Outstanding festivals and events are held during both periods, including Rtveli harvest celebrations in autumn and Orthodox Easter festivities in spring.

45 Comments

Hello! My sister and I plan on visiting Georgia in either July or August to go hiking in Svaneti and Stepantsminda. If we go in August, will there be wildflowers remaining? Will the grass be brown? Thanks!

Hi Janki, it should be nice and green in August at high altitudes. If you take a look at this guide (from Sno valley near Stepantsminda) you will see there were lots of wildflowers at the time of my visit in early August.

https://wander-lush.org/sno-village-giant-stone-heads/

Hi my partner and I are thinking of visiting Georgia from mid April for just over 2 weeks. We love outdoor pursuits – hiking kayaking etc but having researched I’m not sure April is the best time of year although the reviews I’ve read are mixed. I’d love your opinion. We are thinking of doing a circuit taking in places across the state.

Hi Tracy, the hiking season doesn’t really get underway until early June. Many passes and trails will still be closed in April. You can hike at lower altitude (e.g. Borjomi National Park, Lagodekhi), and some watersports will be available (although with the snow melt, the water levels might be too high – it depends). Ideally I would aim for June for this type of holiday.

Hey Emily! Loved reading this article and discovering more gems about Georgia in your blog. Me and my partner are planning to visit Georgia for 2 weeks towards the end of March and Early April in 2024. We’re open to most everything and wanted to explore the mountains and the cities both- just wanted to see if you had any particular suggestions for that time of year and for a 2 week holiday?

Hi Devika, thanks so much! March and April can be funny weather-wise. I would recommend heading west – Borjomi, Guria etc. can be really beautiful at that time of year, and spring arrives a bit earlier. Also Samegrelo region is a great choice.

Hi Emily My husband and I are planning to visit Georgia in the 3rd week of December. I am jit fond of very chilly weather or the snow, so please can you suggest if it’s the ideal time for us to visit this place. Thanks

Hi Padmini, it depends where you are going. Parts of Georgia (including Tbilisi and Kutaisi) are still reasonably warm in December, while in the mountains it is quite chilly of course.

I red your article and it is very helpful. We are planning to go by Mid December this year and we would love to see snow, Is there will be a snow on this date in Kazbegi?

Hi Mariel, it is impossible to say for sure. Last year the snow arrived quite late.

Hi Emily, I am planning to visit Kazbegi in the 2nd week of November with 2 kids, 8 & 3 Year old respectively. Came to know that there are chances of road closure due to snow? I hope not… What would you suggest if I wanted to travel directly from Tbilisi International Airport to Kazbegi.

Thanks for your comment! I can’t say with 100% certainty but it would be very unusual for the road to be closed at that time. There has been a little bit of snow in the previous days, but nothing to warrant a road closure. Past experience tells me that it should be fine.

There might not be snow at all in early November. Last year there was no significant snow fall until late January.

I would recommend booking a GoTrip driver to collect you from the airport and take you directly to Kazbegi. You can stop along the way for sightseeing – this guide has some ideas: https://wander-lush.org/georgian-military-highway-road/

I hope this helps!

Hi, We are planning 7 day trip in the last week of November. We would like to spend 4 days in the mountain region say gadauri or kazbegi, can we self drive in these regions during that time of the year? Also what will be the temperature we would be expecting? And what are the places you think is better around that time. Thanks.

Hi Sanah, if you are a confident driver then yes, you can. You will need winter tires so do make sure the rental car provides them.

Hi Emily I am planning a 4-5days trip in the middle of December to Tbilisi, does it snow there and is it a good month to explore the city and surrounding areas, wine fields, etc.? Please help!

Much Thanks Vikas

Hi Vikas, it sometimes snows in Tbilisi in late spring – but honestly you will not find snow in December in many places in Georgia except maybe the high mountains. It is a fine time to visit Kakheti, but it will be chilly and the vines are bare.

Hi Emily, firstly – You are amazing!! I can’t believe how informative your guides are AND how you respond to everyone who posts – that’s just great service. I have a few questions I’m hoping you can answer. In the video, there is a drone shot of you in what appears to be a hot spring – where is that? Also, I’m going to be traveling solo end of summer and wondered if you knew of any private guides who can take me around – moreso because I have a list of places I want to visit in Tblisi and they aren’t all close. Thoughts on that? Do you have any local photographers you could recommend in Tblisi – so many beautiful spots in that city alone. Thanks in advance

Hi Dee, thanks so much!

The hot spring is in Vani, not too far from Kutaisi. Here is my guide to visiting: https://wander-lush.org/vani-sulfur-pool-dikhashkho-geyser-georgia/

Do you mean a guide for Tbilisi only or for Georgia more broadly? Let me know and I can email you a couple of names.

Do you need a photographer to take photos of you, or are you just looking for some inspiration?

Hi Emily. Thanks for most informative article! We are from India and are thinking of a short holiday( around 7-8 days) to Georgia during the second half of November this year. From 15th onwards. we have two boys aged 13 & 6. Do you think this is a good time climate wise ? We are not looking for anything rushed. Thanks

Hello Suraj, it really depends on what you hope to do. November is not the best season for hiking, but I suppose you wouldn’t be doing anything too strenuous with kids anyway. The weather should be pleasant during the day and you will still find fall colours in lower-lying areas such as Martvili and even parts of Racha. The cities will be much quieter compared to summer which is another plus. Enjoy!

Hi! Great blog very informative. I’m planning to travel solo(for the first time)this first week of april and came across your page. It’s been a delight reading your blogs and it’s really helping me with my itinerary. Keep writing!

Hi Emily, my family are planning to go to Kazbegi for a day tour this coming March, and drop by to Gudauri to enjoy the snow and try skiing at least 1-2 hours, which day can you suggest to go there? Sunday or weekdays? thanks

Hi Pat – I don’t think it matters too much but a weekday could be a little quieter. Enjoy!

Hi, My name is Samy from Bahrain, we are (four families, 16members) planning to visit Georgia on 23-28th March 2023. Can we expect snow in Kazbegi, Gudauri areas – planning to do paragliding & skating activities during our visit. Please guide us, what are all the other places can we visit too.

Thanks in advance.

Hi there, thanks for your comment. The season has been late to start but March is a snowy month so the ski resorts should definitely be in full swing! Paragliding was banned in Gudauri last summer after a terrible accident occurred. Another activity you might like to check out is snow shoe hiking in Juta or Truso Valley. Enjoy your trip!

Hi Emily, we are planning to go to Georgia by April 2023 around the third week, during the Eid celebration, which place is better to visit, and is it good to travel by that time? I would highly appreciate your response. Thank you.

Hi Chloe – sure, April is usually quite nice! Tbilisi is great, cherry trees might be blooming in Kakheti, and you can hike at lower altitudes for example near Borjomi. Have a wonderful trip!

I am planning for Last week of December (22nd to 28th) in Georgia. Can we expect snow in Kazbegi, Bakuriani areas – planning to stay in Skii resort to experience winter activities?

Hi Josy – yes certainly, there should be plenty of snow by then! I believe the season starts in Gudauri on December 10 this year, so the lifts should be open. Have a wonderful trip!

Hello we are planning a tour to Georgia around 25th of November to 10th of December. would like to see some snow and outdoor activities too. we have never experienced snow. would like to visit even small villages and stay each place at least for 2 days to get feel of country. Is this is good time to go? Me and my husband are 60 yrs.old and never stayed in very cold place. kindly guide us Thanks

Hi Kalindi, certainly you should be able to find snow in the high mountains in December (Bakhmaro, Svaneti, etc.). I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Planning to go mid November with 4 year old kid who wants to see snow. It is good still? We’re coming from Dubai..

Hi Maricel – it depends on the weather but you should be able to see snow in the high mountains. It’s been snowing a bit in Svaneti already. But for Gudauri, Bakuriani etc. it won’t be snowing reliably until later in winter. Have a wonderful trip!

this will be our first trip as family, with 9 years old boy, please advise if we travel to Georgia tblisi or armenia or azarbhaijan in December 2022 will that be good or no. your honest feedback and suggestion is needed. thank you

Hi Sonali, thanks for your comment. I am writing a guide to family travel right now. Sure, it’s a nice time to visit the cities and mountain areas for snow. Just keep in mind that days are short and you’ll need to plan your travel logistics accordingly!

Thank you for this nice article! I’ve been reading about Georgia in November and this has been helpful. Unfortunately, I will only have the chance to travel in November (only time off I get from studies/work this year, 2 to 14 Nov). I am a huge fan of hiking/trekking and cultural/religious sites. I know weather is unpredictable but I am hoping to at least be able to go on one scenic and interesting hike… Will that be feasible? Or should I just skip Georgia for a few years? (I suffer from FOMO, though.) Many thanks in advance for any advice you might have!

Hey Rawad, great to hear that! November is not the best time for hiking unfortunately, but you might still be able to do one of the trails in the lower areas such as Lagodekhi or Borjomi National Park. If you want to hike the Greater Caucasus I would suggest postponing your trip – or planning a return visit!

Hi Emily, my friend and I will visit Georgia for a week this coming Sept. Planning to stay 3 days in Tbilisi and looking for another great place to spend the rest of our trip at another part of Georgia. Aside from Tbilisi, any recommendation? Looking for some serene place and just have a relaxing day. Thanks!

Hi Mary, there are so many options… Kakheti for wine, Kazbegi for mountains, Kutaisi for history. Take a look through my guides for more ideas.

Hi, I have planned to visit khazbegi at the first week of coming February.Do you think the road remain open.

Normally the road is open all winter with short closures due to the weather. It’s impossible to say this far in advance. Best to check the weather forecast/road conditions closer to the date. Safe travels!

Hi My name is Sandeep and I want to know if we travel around mid of August with my family (including kids of age 5 and 10) due you recommend to travel Georgia from Dubai is a good option. If yes which places we should visit. Pls guide. Thanks

Hi Sandeep, August is very hot, it’s better to visit in late September. You can find info about my itinerary planning service here: https://wander-lush.org/itinerary-planning/

Hi Emily, I ready your article and it’s very helpful I was planning come Tbilisi mid November for around one week. Mainly I’m interested in outdoor activities such as walking and hiking in nature. Do you recommend I postpone till early May? As I don’t want go now and regret it as it seems temperatures is low and worried that outdoor activities might not be practical. Thank you

Hi Hanan, we spoke via email and I think you decided to visit Georgia in spring instead. It’s getting pretty chilly by mid-November so if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, May would be more comfortable. Thanks!

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Hi! It will be our first time to visit Georgia by February (23-26) 2018. KIndly give us some advice what clothes and must haves to wear. Need also recommendations where places to go to. Thanks a lot.

Take everything warm you can find: Scarf, gloves, hat, jackets, shoes etc.

Place you can go are ski resorts, the closest ones from Tbilisi are Gudauri 120km and Bakuriani 175 km. But Bakuriani is a place where its better to stay for overnight and its a small village with pine forest so you will enjoy there more then in Gudauri.

Also on the way there are places Like Borjomi, Upliscikhe, Mtskheta. You can splot tour for two days, if you will stay for overnight and cover all of them and a bit more.

Also I advce to go to Kakheti (Sighnaghi and Bodbe and visit some wine cellar there) as well as make some city your round Tbilisi.

I suggest you to book everything in advance.

Best Regards, Rustaveli Travel,

Tours&Transfers in Georgia

February is a last month of Winter, but there will be still cold in the mountains of Georgia, that are most visited places by the tourists at this time of the Year. In February you can visit and enjoy the skiing resorts Gudauri and Bakuriani, enjoy in skiing, riding snow bikes and sliding with snow sledges. You will need warm cloths, warm jackets, coats, caps, gloves, scarps, shoes. If you have not them you can buy in Georgia. Beside of the skiing resorts, you can visit also historical places, wineries and healthy resorts of different regions of Georgia. You can stay overnight in Bakuriani to visit more places in this part of Georgia. I suggest you to book your tours in advance together with your hotels.

Best regards,

Private Daily Tours in Georgia

first of all you need find georgian guide or some agency ... with them you will decide which placeses are better for you, here are too much activities in Georgia, you have to find right situation for you ...

best wishes

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum posting guidelines with prohibiting self-promotional advertising or solicitation.

You will definitely need winter clothes/warm clothes as it is too cold. For ski resorts you need proper clothes to protect from snow.

How much will be the price for winter coat, gloves etc stuff over there?

Gloves around $20, jacket $45..

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The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024 – Digital Nomad’s Guide to the Globe

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

<p><strong>In the age of remote work, digital nomads have the unique opportunity to blend their professional lives with their love for travel. But with the whole world to choose from, deciding where to set up your laptop can be daunting. This guide highlights 15 international destinations that stand out for digital nomads, offering a mix of reliable internet, welcoming communities, and lifestyles conducive to productivity and exploration.</strong></p>

In the age of remote work, digital nomads have the unique opportunity to blend their professional lives with their love for travel. But with the whole world to choose from, deciding where to set up your laptop can be daunting. This guide highlights 15 international destinations that stand out for digital nomads, offering a mix of reliable internet, welcoming communities, and lifestyles conducive to productivity and exploration.

<p><span>As a digital nomad in Bali, you’ll find yourself in an idyllic setting that balances work and leisure perfectly. The island is a hub for remote workers, thanks to its serene environment, affordable cost of living, and vibrant community of expatriates and fellow nomads. You can set up your workspace in one of the many co-working spaces or cafes, where high-speed internet and a supportive community are the norms.</span></p> <p><span>Bali’s lifestyle is conducive to productivity, with its tranquil beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences providing a perfect backdrop for creativity and inspiration. The island also offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury villas, all catering to the needs of a digital nomad. This blend of work-friendly infrastructure and an enriching living experience makes Bali an ideal destination for those looking to combine their professional aspirations with a love for travel and exploration.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Indonesia offers a tourist visa for short stays and a social visa for longer stays, which can be extended.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Ubud and Canggu are popular among nomads for their co-working spaces.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar.</span></p>

Bali, Indonesia

As a digital nomad in Bali, you’ll find yourself in an idyllic setting that balances work and leisure perfectly. The island is a hub for remote workers, thanks to its serene environment, affordable cost of living, and vibrant community of expatriates and fellow nomads. You can set up your workspace in one of the many co-working spaces or cafes, where high-speed internet and a supportive community are the norms.

Bali’s lifestyle is conducive to productivity, with its tranquil beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences providing a perfect backdrop for creativity and inspiration. The island also offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury villas, all catering to the needs of a digital nomad. This blend of work-friendly infrastructure and an enriching living experience makes Bali an ideal destination for those looking to combine their professional aspirations with a love for travel and exploration.

Visa Requirements: Indonesia offers a tourist visa for short stays and a social visa for longer stays, which can be extended.

Insider’s Tip: Ubud and Canggu are popular among nomads for their co-working spaces.

Getting There: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar.

<p><span>In Chiang Mai, you’ll find an ideal haven for digital nomads, characterized by its low cost of living, fast internet, and a robust community of like-minded individuals. This city has become a preferred destination for remote workers, offering affordable housing options and numerous co-working spaces equipped with high-speed internet. Chiang Mai’s digital nomad community is welcoming and diverse, providing ample opportunities for networking and socializing.</span></p> <p><span>The city combines modern amenities with rich cultural heritage, allowing you to work efficiently while experiencing the unique Thai culture, from bustling markets to serene temples. The affordability of living in Chiang Mai means you can enjoy a high quality of life without stretching your budget, whether you’re savoring local Thai cuisine, exploring the surrounding landscapes, or simply enjoying the city’s laid-back atmosphere.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Thailand offers a tourist visa and a special long-term visa for digital nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Check out the many cafes with excellent Wi-Fi and coffee.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Chiang Mai International Airport has flights from major Asian cities.</span></p>

Chiang Mai, Thailand

In Chiang Mai, you’ll find an ideal haven for digital nomads, characterized by its low cost of living, fast internet, and a robust community of like-minded individuals. This city has become a preferred destination for remote workers, offering affordable housing options and numerous co-working spaces equipped with high-speed internet. Chiang Mai’s digital nomad community is welcoming and diverse, providing ample opportunities for networking and socializing.

The city combines modern amenities with rich cultural heritage, allowing you to work efficiently while experiencing the unique Thai culture, from bustling markets to serene temples. The affordability of living in Chiang Mai means you can enjoy a high quality of life without stretching your budget, whether you’re savoring local Thai cuisine, exploring the surrounding landscapes, or simply enjoying the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

Visa Requirements: Thailand offers a tourist visa and a special long-term visa for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the many cafes with excellent Wi-Fi and coffee.

Getting There: Chiang Mai International Airport has flights from major Asian cities.

<p><span>Thanks to its vibrant startup scene, cultural diversity, and excellent infrastructure, Berlin is a magnet for digital nomads. As a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, Berlin offers an inspiring environment for creative minds and tech enthusiasts. The city’s cultural diversity enriches your experience, providing a broad spectrum of perspectives and ideas. Its infrastructure is well-suited for remote work, with reliable public transportation and a plethora of co-working spaces.</span></p> <p><span>Berlin’s rich history and dynamic arts scene adds another layer of appeal, allowing you to immerse yourself in a city that seamlessly blends its past with a forward-thinking ethos. Whether you’re networking in trendy cafés, collaborating in modern workspaces, or exploring the city’s many historical and cultural attractions, Berlin provides a stimulating backdrop for your professional and personal growth.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Germany offers a range of visas, including the freelancer visa for non-EU citizens.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore co-working spaces in Kreuzberg and Neukölln.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the main international gateway.</span></p>

Berlin, Germany

Thanks to its vibrant startup scene, cultural diversity, and excellent infrastructure, Berlin is a magnet for digital nomads. As a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, Berlin offers an inspiring environment for creative minds and tech enthusiasts. The city’s cultural diversity enriches your experience, providing a broad spectrum of perspectives and ideas. Its infrastructure is well-suited for remote work, with reliable public transportation and a plethora of co-working spaces.

Berlin’s rich history and dynamic arts scene adds another layer of appeal, allowing you to immerse yourself in a city that seamlessly blends its past with a forward-thinking ethos. Whether you’re networking in trendy cafés, collaborating in modern workspaces, or exploring the city’s many historical and cultural attractions, Berlin provides a stimulating backdrop for your professional and personal growth.

Visa Requirements: Germany offers a range of visas, including the freelancer visa for non-EU citizens.

Insider’s Tip: Explore co-working spaces in Kreuzberg and Neukölln.

Getting There: Berlin Brandenburg Airport is the main international gateway.

<p><span>In Lisbon, you’ll find yourself in a city becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads, thanks to its great weather, affordable cost of living, and burgeoning tech scene. The city’s mild climate allows for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle year-round, perfect for work and leisure. Lisbon offers a cost-effective living environment, especially compared to other major European cities, allowing your budget to stretch further.</span></p> <p><span>The growing tech scene in Lisbon is also a significant draw, with an increasing number of startups and tech events fostering a dynamic and innovative atmosphere. The city’s blend of traditional charm and modern amenities makes it an attractive location for remote work. From its historic neighborhoods and vibrant cultural life to its beautiful beaches and welcoming community, Lisbon provides a balanced environment catering to your professional needs and personal interests.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Portugal has a digital nomad visa as part of its temporary stay visa.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Enjoy the numerous outdoor cafes and rooftop terraces.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport.</span></p>

Lisbon, Portugal

In Lisbon, you’ll find yourself in a city becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads, thanks to its great weather, affordable cost of living, and burgeoning tech scene. The city’s mild climate allows for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle year-round, perfect for work and leisure. Lisbon offers a cost-effective living environment, especially compared to other major European cities, allowing your budget to stretch further.

The growing tech scene in Lisbon is also a significant draw, with an increasing number of startups and tech events fostering a dynamic and innovative atmosphere. The city’s blend of traditional charm and modern amenities makes it an attractive location for remote work. From its historic neighborhoods and vibrant cultural life to its beautiful beaches and welcoming community, Lisbon provides a balanced environment catering to your professional needs and personal interests.

Visa Requirements: Portugal has a digital nomad visa as part of its temporary stay visa.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy the numerous outdoor cafes and rooftop terraces.

Getting There: Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

As a digital nomad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, you’ll be immersed in a city renowned for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and surprisingly affordable lifestyle. This lively metropolis offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from tango music echoing in the streets to the colorful murals that adorn the city walls. The cost of living here is lower than in many other major cities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a high-quality yet economical lifestyle.

Buenos Aires is also a cultural hub, with various cafes, theaters, and bookstores catering to diverse tastes and interests. The city’s vibrant and diverse nightlife offers everything from traditional milongas to contemporary clubs and bars. As a digital nomad, you’ll find that Buenos Aires combines the excitement of a large city with the warmth of Argentine hospitality, making it a stimulating and enjoyable place to live and work.

Visa Requirements: Argentina offers a tourist visa, extendable for up to 90 days.

Insider’s Tip: Palermo is a trendy neighborhood popular with expats.

Getting There: Ministro Pistarini International Airport is the main entry point.

<p><span>Connected to Letná Park by a modern footbridge, you will head to the Chotek Gardens, a beautiful park beside the next big stop on your walk, Prague Castle. Seat to the kings of Bohemia and currently the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic, Prague Castle awaits after a short walk through its exterior gardens.</span></p> <p><span>Originating in the late 9th century, this castle houses St. George’s Basilica and St. Vitus Cathedral, two of the most beautiful religious sites the world’s most atheist country has to offer. You can take several historical tours around the castle or simply walk around and appreciate the interior on your own, but don’t miss the gardens on the southern wall that offer another great view of the city.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Buy a combined ticket with entry to multiple parts of the castle to save money and explore more.</span></p>

Prague, Czech Republic

You’ll be surrounded by a city steeped in rich history, evident in its stunning architecture and centuries-old streets. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate Prague’s robust infrastructure, including reliable public transport and high-speed internet, facilitating work and exploration. The city’s central location in Europe makes it a strategic base for traveling to other European destinations, offering convenience and adventure.

Prague’s historical ambiance and modern amenities provide a unique work environment. You can spend your days working in cozy cafés or modern co-working spaces and your evenings exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene, from its famed Charles Bridge to the numerous museums and galleries. Prague offers a perfect balance of work and leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage while staying connected and productive.

Visa Requirements: Czech Republic offers a long-term business visa for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Take advantage of the city’s excellent public transportation.

Getting There: Václav Havel Airport Prague offers numerous international connections.

<p><span>Barcelona is a city celebrated for its stunning architecture, from the whimsical works of Gaudí to the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm. As a digital nomad, the city’s pleasant Mediterranean climate provides an ideal backdrop for work and leisure, allowing for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle throughout the year. </span><span>Barcelona also has dynamic co-working spaces, fostering a creative and collaborative environment for professionals from various sectors. </span><span>These spaces often host community events and workshops, providing opportunities for networking and skill development.</span></p> <p><span>Additionally, the city’s blend of cultural richness, from its world-class museums to vibrant street life, ensures there’s always something new to explore and draw inspiration from. </span><span>In Barcelona, a favorable climate, innovative workspaces, and a deep cultural heritage create an enriching and balanced experience for remote work and living.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Spain has a non-lucrative visa suitable for digital nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique vibe.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Barcelona-El Prat Airport serves many international flights.</span></p>

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city celebrated for its stunning architecture, from the whimsical works of Gaudí to the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm. As a digital nomad, the city’s pleasant Mediterranean climate provides an ideal backdrop for work and leisure, allowing for an enjoyable outdoor lifestyle throughout the year. Barcelona also has dynamic co-working spaces, fostering a creative and collaborative environment for professionals from various sectors. These spaces often host community events and workshops, providing opportunities for networking and skill development.

Additionally, the city’s blend of cultural richness, from its world-class museums to vibrant street life, ensures there’s always something new to explore and draw inspiration from. In Barcelona, a favorable climate, innovative workspaces, and a deep cultural heritage create an enriching and balanced experience for remote work and living.

Visa Requirements: Spain has a non-lucrative visa suitable for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique vibe.

Getting There: Barcelona-El Prat Airport serves many international flights.

<p><span>Discover a vibrant metropolis teeming with rich culture and an exceptional culinary scene, making it a favored destination for expats and digital nomads. The city’s vast cultural landscape is dotted with historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries, providing a deep dive into Mexico’s heritage. The cuisine, ranging from street food to high-end restaurants, offers a gastronomic adventure with diverse and delectable flavors.</span></p> <p><span>As an expat, you’ll find Mexico City’s atmosphere remarkably welcoming, with locals known for their warmth and hospitality. This sense of inclusivity extends into the thriving community of digital nomads and expats, where you can easily find networks and social groups. Whether working from a bustling café, exploring the colorful markets, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Mexico City offers a dynamic and enriching environment for personal and professional growth.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Mexico offers a six-month tourist visa upon arrival for many nationalities.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Condesa and Roma neighborhoods are trendy among nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Mexico City International Airport is well-connected globally.</span></p>

Mexico City, Mexico

Discover a vibrant metropolis teeming with rich culture and an exceptional culinary scene, making it a favored destination for expats and digital nomads. The city’s vast cultural landscape is dotted with historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries, providing a deep dive into Mexico’s heritage. The cuisine, ranging from street food to high-end restaurants, offers a gastronomic adventure with diverse and delectable flavors.

As an expat, you’ll find Mexico City’s atmosphere remarkably welcoming, with locals known for their warmth and hospitality. This sense of inclusivity extends into the thriving community of digital nomads and expats, where you can easily find networks and social groups. Whether working from a bustling café, exploring the colorful markets, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Mexico City offers a dynamic and enriching environment for personal and professional growth.

Visa Requirements: Mexico offers a six-month tourist visa upon arrival for many nationalities.

Insider’s Tip: Condesa and Roma neighborhoods are trendy among nomads.

Getting There: Mexico City International Airport is well-connected globally.

<p><span>Tallinn is at the forefront of digital innovation, recognized for its pioneering e-residency programs and vibrant tech community. As a digital nomad, this environment is ideal, offering advanced digital infrastructure and a supportive network for tech professionals. The e-residency program provides a unique opportunity for remote workers to establish and run a business virtually within the EU.</span></p> <p><span>Tallinn’s tech community is not just about business; it’s also about collaboration and creativity, with numerous tech events, meetups, and co-working spaces fostering a sense of community and innovation. The city’s blend of medieval charm and modern amenities provides an inspiring backdrop for your work. Living in Tallinn means being part of a progressive, digitally advanced society where technology is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, making it a perfect match for those who thrive in a forward-thinking and dynamic environment.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Estonia offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Check out the Telliskivi Creative City for co-working spaces.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the main international airport.</span></p>

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is at the forefront of digital innovation, recognized for its pioneering e-residency programs and vibrant tech community. As a digital nomad, this environment is ideal, offering advanced digital infrastructure and a supportive network for tech professionals. The e-residency program provides a unique opportunity for remote workers to establish and run a business virtually within the EU.

Tallinn’s tech community is not just about business; it’s also about collaboration and creativity, with numerous tech events, meetups, and co-working spaces fostering a sense of community and innovation. The city’s blend of medieval charm and modern amenities provides an inspiring backdrop for your work. Living in Tallinn means being part of a progressive, digitally advanced society where technology is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, making it a perfect match for those who thrive in a forward-thinking and dynamic environment.

Visa Requirements: Estonia offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the Telliskivi Creative City for co-working spaces.

Getting There: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the main international airport.

<p><span>Immerse yourself in the energy of Bangkok that buzzes with vibrant street life, bustling markets, and a skyline that blends traditional temples with modern high-rises. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate Bangkok’s affordable cost of living, which makes it possible to enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank. The city is also emerging as a hub for entrepreneurs and startups, offering networking opportunities and resources for those looking to grow their businesses or start new ventures.</span></p> <p><span>The local community welcomes expats and fellow nomads, making fitting in and finding your niche easy. Whether working from a trendy café in Sukhumvit, exploring the rich cultural heritage in the old town, or enjoying the city’s renowned street food, Bangkok offers a dynamic and stimulating environment that is both inspiring and conducive to productivity.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Thailand’s special long-term visa accommodates digital nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore the city’s diverse food markets for a taste of local cuisine.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport serve Bangkok.</span></p>

Bangkok, Thailand

Immerse yourself in the energy of Bangkok that buzzes with vibrant street life, bustling markets, and a skyline that blends traditional temples with modern high-rises. As a digital nomad, you’ll appreciate Bangkok’s affordable cost of living, which makes it possible to enjoy a high standard of living without breaking the bank. The city is also emerging as a hub for entrepreneurs and startups, offering networking opportunities and resources for those looking to grow their businesses or start new ventures.

The local community welcomes expats and fellow nomads, making fitting in and finding your niche easy. Whether working from a trendy café in Sukhumvit, exploring the rich cultural heritage in the old town, or enjoying the city’s renowned street food, Bangkok offers a dynamic and stimulating environment that is both inspiring and conducive to productivity.

Visa Requirements: Thailand’s special long-term visa accommodates digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the city’s diverse food markets for a taste of local cuisine.

Getting There: Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport serve Bangkok.

<p><span>Tbilisi is a city where affordability meets a rich tapestry of culture and history, making it an increasingly popular choice for digital nomads. The cost of living here is remarkably low compared to many European cities, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without stretching your budget. Tbilisi’s charm lies in its friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality, making it easy for you to feel at home and integrate into the community.</span></p> <p><span>The city offers a unique cultural experience, blending its historic past with a growing contemporary arts scene. Stroll through the old town’s cobbled streets, visit the diverse array of cafes and eateries, and immerse yourself in the vibrant mix of Eastern and Western influences that define Tbilisi’s identity. This balance of affordability, welcoming atmosphere, and cultural richness makes Tbilisi an attractive destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience while working remotely.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Georgia’s Remotely from Georgia program welcomes digital nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Enjoy the city’s blend of modern and historic architecture.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Tbilisi International Airport has regular flights from Europe and Asia.</span></p>

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is a city where affordability meets a rich tapestry of culture and history, making it an increasingly popular choice for digital nomads. The cost of living here is remarkably low compared to many European cities, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without stretching your budget. Tbilisi’s charm lies in its friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality, making it easy for you to feel at home and integrate into the community.

The city offers a unique cultural experience, blending its historic past with a growing contemporary arts scene. Stroll through the old town’s cobbled streets, visit the diverse array of cafes and eateries, and immerse yourself in the vibrant mix of Eastern and Western influences that define Tbilisi’s identity. This balance of affordability, welcoming atmosphere, and cultural richness makes Tbilisi an attractive destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience while working remotely.

Visa Requirements: Georgia’s Remotely from Georgia program welcomes digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy the city’s blend of modern and historic architecture.

Getting There: Tbilisi International Airport has regular flights from Europe and Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you’ll find yourself in a dynamic urban environment with an appealing mix of affordability and a lively international community. The city, known for its energy and bustling streets, presents a low cost of living, allowing you to enjoy a variety of experiences without a hefty price tag. Ho Chi Minh City is a magnet for expatriates and digital nomads, creating a vibrant and diverse community where you can easily connect with others from around the world.

The city’s landscape blends modern skyscrapers, French colonial architecture, and traditional Vietnamese elements, providing a stimulating backdrop for daily life. Whether working in a trendy café in District 1, exploring the rich history and culture, or sampling the renowned Vietnamese cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City offers a dynamic setting that caters to both your professional needs and your adventurous spirit.

Visa Requirements: Vietnam offers a business visa that can be suitable for digital nomads.

Insider’s Tip: District 1 is popular for its cafes and co-working spaces.

Getting There: Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the main gateway.

<p><span>Often called the ‘City of Eternal Spring,’ Medellín has a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a comfortable environment to work and live. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation and now boasts a vibrant digital nomad community supported by numerous co-working spaces and a growing tech scene. Medellín’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, which perfectly balance urban living and natural beauty.</span></p> <p><span>The city’s cultural richness, colorful neighborhoods, lively music scene, and friendly locals add to its appeal. Networking opportunities abound, whether in professional settings or casual meetups, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in the local and expat communities. Medellín’s combination of pleasant weather, affordable living, and dynamic community creates an attractive and stimulating environment for remote workers.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Colombia offers a tourist visa and has proposed a digital nomad visa.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Poblado and Laureles are neighborhoods popular with digital nomads.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>José María Córdova International Airport serves Medellín.</span></p>

Medellín, Colombia

Often called the ‘City of Eternal Spring,’ Medellín has a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a comfortable environment to work and live. The city has undergone a remarkable transformation and now boasts a vibrant digital nomad community supported by numerous co-working spaces and a growing tech scene. Medellín’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by its lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, which perfectly balance urban living and natural beauty.

The city’s cultural richness, colorful neighborhoods, lively music scene, and friendly locals add to its appeal. Networking opportunities abound, whether in professional settings or casual meetups, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in the local and expat communities. Medellín’s combination of pleasant weather, affordable living, and dynamic community creates an attractive and stimulating environment for remote workers.

Visa Requirements: Colombia offers a tourist visa and has proposed a digital nomad visa.

Insider’s Tip: Poblado and Laureles are neighborhoods popular with digital nomads.

Getting There: José María Córdova International Airport serves Medellín.

<p><span>The interplay between natural beauty and cultural diversity creates an extraordinary experience in Cape Town. The city is dramatically set against the backdrop of Table Mountain, with stunning beaches and the expansive Atlantic Ocean framing its borders. This unique geography offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking up Lion’s Head for panoramic views to exploring the biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The natural wonders of Cape Town are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the city’s identity, deeply influencing the lifestyle and leisure activities of its residents.</span></p> <p><span>Cape Town’s cultural landscape is just as diverse as its natural one. The city boasts a rich history that reflects a blend of Indigenous, Dutch, British, and Malay influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. District Six Museum and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, provide poignant insights into South Africa’s apartheid past. Meanwhile, the vibrant neighborhoods of Bo-Kaap and Woodstock showcase the city’s artistic and creative side, with colorful buildings, street art, and trendy cafes. In Cape Town, the beauty of its environment and the depth of its cultural heritage coalesce, offering a multifaceted experience to visitors.</span></p> <p><b>Insider Tip:</b><span> Take the cable car to Table Mountain for panoramic views.</span></p> <p><b>Best Time to Travel:</b><span> September to April.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There:</b><span> Cape Town International Airport.</span></p>

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town marries stunning natural landscapes with a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and a burgeoning tech scene. As a digital nomad, Cape Town offers you the unique opportunity to work in the backdrop of breathtaking scenery, from the iconic Table Mountain to the picturesque beaches along the coastline. The city’s diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, each offering a different cultural experience, from the historic streets of Bo-Kaap to the bustling waterfront.

Cape Town is also emerging as a tech hub, with a growing number of startups and co-working spaces fostering a dynamic atmosphere for innovation and collaboration. This combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tech-forward environment makes Cape Town an inspiring and productive location for digital nomads seeking a blend of work and exploration.

Visa Requirements: South Africa offers various visas, including a business visa for remote workers.

Insider’s Tip: The city has numerous beaches perfect for wind-down after work.

Getting There: Cape Town International Airport offers flights to major global cities.

<p><span>Ubud is a serene oasis that’s become a haven for digital nomads worldwide. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ubud offers a tranquil environment where you can focus on your work amidst the inspiring beauty of nature. The town is celebrated for its artistic community, traditional crafts, and vibrant cultural events, providing a deeply immersive experience of Balinese culture.</span></p> <p><span>Ubud’s well-established community of digital nomads means you’ll have access to a network of like-minded individuals, co-working spaces, and cafes that cater to a productive lifestyle. Whether working from a quiet café surrounded by rice fields or attending a local cultural workshop, Ubud offers a balanced lifestyle combining work, wellness, and cultural enrichment.</span></p> <p><b>Visa Requirements: </b><span>Indonesia’s social visa is a popular option for longer stays.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Don’t miss the local art markets for unique crafts.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport and then travel to Ubud.</span></p>

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud is a serene oasis that’s become a haven for digital nomads worldwide. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ubud offers a tranquil environment where you can focus on your work amidst the inspiring beauty of nature. The town is celebrated for its artistic community, traditional crafts, and vibrant cultural events, providing a deeply immersive experience of Balinese culture.

Ubud’s well-established community of digital nomads means you’ll have access to a network of like-minded individuals, co-working spaces, and cafes that cater to a productive lifestyle. Whether working from a quiet café surrounded by rice fields or attending a local cultural workshop, Ubud offers a balanced lifestyle combining work, wellness, and cultural enrichment.

Visa Requirements: Indonesia’s social visa is a popular option for longer stays.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the local art markets for unique crafts.

Getting There: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport and then travel to Ubud.

<p><span>For digital nomads, the world is their office. These 15 destinations offer the essentials like strong internet and co-working spaces and enrich the remote working experience with their unique cultures, vibrant communities, and scenic beauty. Each place provides a different backdrop to a digital nomad’s lifestyle, whether a bustling city life or tranquil beachside living. With the world slowly adapting to the needs of remote workers, the possibilities are endless for those seeking to balance work and wanderlust.</span></p> <p><span>More Articles Like This…</span></p> <p><span>Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs</span></p> <p><span>2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities</span></p> <p><span>Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand</span></p> <p><span>The post The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024 – Digital Nomad’s Guide to the Globe republished on</span> <span>Passing Thru</span><span> with permission from</span> <span>The Green Voyage</span><span>.</span></p> <p>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini.</p> <p><span>For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.</span></p>

The Bottom Line

For digital nomads, the world is their office. These 15 destinations offer the essentials like strong internet and co-working spaces and enrich the remote working experience with their unique cultures, vibrant communities, and scenic beauty. Each place provides a different backdrop to a digital nomad’s lifestyle, whether a bustling city life or tranquil beachside living. With the world slowly adapting to the needs of remote workers, the possibilities are endless for those seeking to balance work and wanderlust.

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Russia-Ukraine war: Zelenskiy says west must do more after 14 killed in Russian strike on Chernihiv – as it happened

President says attack would not have happened ‘if Ukraine had received sufficient air defence equipment’

1d ago Closing summary
1d ago Russia’s military death toll in Ukraine passes 50,000, says the BBC
1d ago Death toll in Chernihiv climbs to 14
1d ago Zelenskiy criticises lack of air defence equipment after Chernihiv attack and says west should do more
1d ago At least 13 people killed and 61 injured in Russian strike on Chernihiv, say emergency services
2d ago Russia says it has expelled an Estonian diplomat in retaliatory move
2d ago Russia bans entry to 235 Australian citizens
2d ago Deaths in Chernihiv after Russian strike
2d ago German chancellor urges Xi Jinping to press Russia to end Ukraine war
2d ago Kharkiv at risk of becoming ‘second Aleppo’ without US aid, mayor says
2d ago Several killed and injured in Russian strike on Ukraine’s Chernihiv, says local official
2d ago Opening summary

Rescuers work in the aftermath of a Russian missile strike in Chernihiv.

Closing summary

It has gone 5pm in Kyiv and in Moscow . We will be closing this blog soon, but you can stay up to date on the Guardian’s Russia and Ukraine coverage here .

Here is a recap of today’s latest developments:

At least 14 people were killed and 61 were injured on Wednesday after three Russian missiles slammed into a downtown area of the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv , hitting an eight-floor apartment building. Two children were among the 61 people injured, the emergency services said in its latest toll of casualties. “Three people were rescued from the rubble. People are likely still trapped under the rubble of the partially destroyed building,” the statement said.

A 25-year-old policewoman on sick leave was among those killed in Chernihiv after suffering a severe shrapnel injury , the interior minister announced. “Many multi storey buildings were damaged,” the regional governor Vyacheslav Chaus said on state run television. “Civilian infrastructure is damaged. Dozens of vehicles have been destroyed.”

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy blamed Russia for the attack on Chernihiv but also said the west should do more to help defend Ukraine’s skies. “This would not have happened if Ukraine had received sufficient air defence equipment and if the world’s determination to resist Russian terror had been sufficient,” he said in a social media post on X.

Rescuers work at the site of a destroyed building after a Russian missile strike in Chernihiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday.

The Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba echoed Zelenskiy’s comments in a separate post on social media and suggested that Ukraine should enjoy the same cover from aerial attacks as Israel. “In the Middle East, we saw what reliable protection of human lives from missiles looks like,” he added, referring to Iran’s drone and missile barrage on Israel that was intercepted by western and Israeli forces.

G7 foreign ministers will discuss support for a Ukrainian air defence system at their meeting in Capri on Wednesday, a German government spokesperson said.

According to the BBC , Russia’s military death toll in Ukraine has now passed 50,000. BBC Russian, independent media group Mediazona and volunteers have been counting deaths since February 2022. More than 27,300 Russian soldiers died in the second year of combat, according to the BBC’s findings, which it said Russia declined to comment on.

Kharkiv is at risk of becoming “a second Aleppo” unless US politicians vote for fresh military aid to help Ukraine obtain the air defences needed to prevent long-range Russian attacks, the city’s mayor has warned. Ihor Terekhov said Russia had switched tactics to try to destroy the city’s power supply and terrorise its 1.3 million residents by firing into residential areas, with people experiencing unscheduled power cuts for hours at a time.

Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Polish president Andrzej Duda on Wednesday in New York . The planned dinner meeting, confirmed by a person familiar with the matter according to the Associated Press, comes as European leaders prepare for the possibility that Trump might win the November election and return to the White House. “Today here is no more important partner for the Republic of Poland in international relations than the US, and this is exactly the context in which this meeting should be seen,” said the adviser, Małgorzata Paprocka.

Poland’s centrist prime minister Donald Tusk, a political opponent of Duda, was critical of the president for his willingness to meet Trump , describing the expected meeting as a form of meddling in the US election campaign. “But if Mr President actually meets with Mr Trump, we would expect him to raise the issue of clearly siding with the western world, democracy and Europe in this Ukrainian-Russian conflict,” Tusk added.

Germany’s chancellor, Olaf Scholz , says he has urged Xi Jinping to press Russia to end its “senseless” war in Ukraine and that the Chinese president has agreed to back a peace conference in Switzerland. Scholz said after a meeting with Xi in Beijing on Tuesday that “China’s word carries weight in Russia”.

Zelenskiy responded on X that China could help deliver a “just peace” for his country by playing an “active role” in the international conference. Xi, however, appeared to dismiss the meeting in Switzerland, saying efforts towards a peaceful resolution should be recognised by both sides and include equal participation by all parties. The peace conference in Switzerland is due to take place in June without Russia in attendance and Moscow has dismissed any such meeting as meaningless without its participation.

Russia banned entry to hundreds of Australian citizens, the Russian foreign ministry said on Wednesday. It said Moscow will indefinitely close entry to 235 municipal councillors for what it called an “anti-Russian agenda”.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be invited to the 80th anniversary of the 1944 D-day landings in June , the French organisers have said. Some Russian representatives will be welcomed in recognition of the country’s wartime sacrifice, they added. Putin would have been unlikely to attend the Normandy event. He has rarely left Russia since the invasion of Ukraine , in part because of an international criminal court (ICC) warrant for his arrest that Moscow says it does not recognise.

The Ukrainian military says Russia has ramped up its illegal use of riot control agents on the front to try to clear trenches as it begins to make bigger advances in the east. Riot control agents such as teargas are banned on the battlefield by the international Chemical Weapons Convention, to which Russia and Ukraine are signatories.

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that a draft law on “foreign agents” currently being debated by lawmakers in Georgia is being used by outside actors to stoke anti-Russian sentiment and should not be called Russian. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the situation was being used to “provoke anti-Russian sentiments” and that “it is unlikely that these impulses are being fed from within Georgia.”“They’re probably coming from the outside,” he told reporters, without elaborating. He said the Kremlin was closely watching developments.

Russia’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday it had expelled one Estonian embassy official working in Moscow in a retaliatory move . The foreign ministry said in a statement that the move was a response to what it called a baseless decision by Estonia to expel a Russian diplomat working in Tallinn.

Ukraine’s need for US aid is now acute, according to the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based thinktank. “Ukraine cannot hold the present lines now without the rapid resumption of US assistance, particularly air defence and artillery that only the US can provide rapidly and at scale,” the ISW said in an assessment late on Tuesday.

Croatian voters are going to the polls on Wednesday in a high-stakes parliamentary election that could significantly change the country’s pro-western stance on issues including European support for Ukraine in its battle against Russia.

Russia’s military death toll in Ukraine passes 50,000, says the BBC

According to the BBC , Russia’s military death toll in Ukraine has now passed 50,000.

BBC Russian, independent media group Mediazona and volunteers have been counting deaths since February 2022. The BBC say its teams “combed through open-source information from official reports, newspapers and social media” and that “new graves in cemeteries helped provide the names of many soldiers”.

More than 27,300 Russian soldiers died in the second year of combat, according to the BBC’s findings. It said in its report:

The overall death toll – of more than 50,000 – is eight times higher than the only official public acknowledgment of fatality numbers ever given by Moscow in September 2022. The actual number of Russian deaths is likely to be much higher. Our analysis does not include the deaths of militia in Russian-occupied Donetsk and Luhansk – in eastern Ukraine. If they were added, the death toll on the Russian side would be even higher.

Russia declined to comment, said the BBC.

Here are the latest images coming out of Chernihiv:

A rescuer works with a dog at the site of a destroyed building during a Russian missile strike.

Death toll in Chernihiv climbs to 14

Associated Press is reporting that the death toll in Chernihiv has reached “at least 14 people” , after three Russian missiles slammed into a downtown area of the northern Ukrainian city.

Reuters has an in-depth report on Russia’s illegal use of tear gas in the trenches in Ukraine:

The Ukrainian infantryman, call sign “Ray”, said he quickly pulled on his gas mask after a Russian drone flying above his trench on the eastern front dropped a tear gas grenade.

He told Reuters of the attack he said he experienced in January:

It’s like pepper spray, it makes your eyes tear up. It’s not lethal, but it disturbs and knocks you out. It makes it very difficult to carry out your duties once you’ve inhaled it.

The Ukrainian military says Russia has ramped up its illegal use of riot control agents on the front to try to clear trenches as it begins to make bigger advances in the east more than two years since its full-scale invasion.

Riot control agents such as tear gas are banned on the battlefield by the international Chemical Weapons Convention, to which Russia and Ukraine are signatories.

While civilians can usually escape from tear gas used to break up riots or protests in cities, soldiers stuck in trenches without gas masks must either flee under enemy fire or risk suffocating on the gas.

Colonel Serhii Pakhomov, acting head of the military’s atomic, biological and chemical defence forces, said Kyiv had recorded around 900 uses of riot control agents by Russia in the past six months out of over 1,400 since the February 2022 invasion.

Russia mainly used K-51, VOH and RH-VO hand-grenades loaded with CS, CN and other gases, he told Reuters in an interview. Ukraine’s military previously alleged that Russian forces also used chloropicrin, which was used as poison gas in World War I.

Russia’s embassy in The Netherlands, where the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is based, said on X in January that allegations about Russia’s use of grenades with CN gas use unconfirmed data. Russia’s defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment for this article.

Moscow previously accused Ukrainian forces of using chemical weapons, something Kyiv denies. Reuters has not been able to independently verify the use of banned chemical substances by either side.

Five hundred Ukrainian troops have required medical help after exposure to toxic substances on the battlefield and at least one soldier died after suffocating on tear gas, Pakhomov said.

In addition to demoralisation, the person loses physical capabilities – he can’t see, he can’t breathe, everything is irritated. Yes, it is temporary, but it is the very moment the enemy can use to take over this position or another.

The Ukrainian military is distributing gas masks and conducting drills to prepare soldiers to defend their position during such attacks. At one drill near Kharkiv, instructors told Reuters that gas masks help to protect troops from almost all combat poisons but the length of exposure could impact their effectiveness.

Russian forces, which have occupied 18% of Ukrainian territory, are advancing slowly but steadily in the east, after months of deadly fighting.

Volodymyr, 37, a doctor at a medical stabilisation point in the Donetsk region, said gas attacks cases have picked up recently as he was seeing an average of two soldiers a week.

They complain about gas attacks of varying characteristics - colourless, blue or green - and with a strong chemical smell.

The symptoms, it looks like irritation ... it’s like tear gas or something like that.

Natalia Khovanets, 53, a head nurse at a Ukrainian army medical unit in a forested part of the mostly-occupied region of Luhansk, told Reuters they had treated soldiers who had been hit with tear gas grenades dropped by a Russian drone.

(The symptoms we saw were) bitterness in the patients’ mouths, dizziness... these are mild symptoms. That meant we could manage treating them on our own.

An official with the OPCW, which investigates alleged use of chemicals as weapons, told Reuters it had received no request for an investigation or technical assistance related to the alleged use of banned chemicals in the war.

“However, the use of riot control agents as weapons by Russian troops was widely debated,” at the organisation’s recent meetings, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

The task of documenting each case of alleged toxic chemicals use falls to special groups within the Ukrainian military who collect evidence and contaminated ground samples for field labs before passing them to Ukraine’s security services.

Pakhomov said that the 1,400 recorded cases is likely a considerable underestimate because heavy artillery fire and fighting often prevents the groups from visiting trenches, making documentation and accountability harder to achieve.

G7 foreign ministers will discuss support for a Ukrainian air defence system at their meeting in Capri on Wednesday, a German government spokesperson has said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be invited to the 80th anniversary of the 1944 D-Day landings in June , the French organisers have said.

Some Russian representatives will be welcomed in recognition of the country’s war-time sacrifice, they added.

The organisers said in a statement to Reuters:

For more than two years now, the Russian Federation has been waging a war of aggression against Ukraine, which France condemns in the strongest possible terms. Given these circumstances, President Putin will not be invited to take part in the Normandy landings commemoration. Russia will nevertheless be invited to be represented, given the importance of its role and the sacrifice of the Soviet people, so that their contribution to the victory in 1945 can be honoured.

The commemorations in June mark the day when more than 150,000 Allied soldiers invaded France to drive out the forces of Nazi Germany. Millions of Soviet soldiers died in the war.

Putin would have been unlikely to attend the Normandy event. He has rarely left Russia since the invasion of Ukraine , in part because of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for his arrest that Moscow says it does not recognise.

At least 13 people killed and 61 injured in Russian strike on Chernihiv, say emergency services

A Russian strike on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv killed 13 people and injured 61 people on Wednesday, as Kyiv sounded the alarm over shortages in its air defence capabilities, reports Agence France-Presse (AFP). Earlier reports had put the death toll at 10 people (see 09:40 BST ).

First responders searched for survivors in the rubble, carrying away the wounded on stretchers as pools of blood formed on the ground near the scene of the attack, reported AFP citing what official images showed.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy , who has been urging allies to send more missiles to thwart Russian air attacks, said Ukraine had lacked sufficient air defences to intercept the three missiles that struck Chernihiv.

An officer of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine looks on as rescuers work at the site of a destroyed building in Chernihiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday.

Two children were among the 61 people injured, the emergency services said in its latest toll of casualties. “Three people were rescued from the rubble. People are likely still trapped under the rubble of the partially destroyed building,” the statement said.

A 25-year-old policewoman on sick leave was among those killed after suffering a severe shrapnel injury, the interior minister announced separately, according to AFP.

“Many multi storey buildings were damaged,” the regional governor Vyacheslav Chaus said on state run television. “Civilian infrastructure is damaged. Dozens of vehicles have been destroyed.”

Croatian voters are going to the polls in a high-stakes parliamentary election that could significantly change the country’s pro-western stance on issues including European support for Ukraine in its battle against Russia .

You can read the full article by the Guardian’s Europe correspondent, Jon Henley , here:

Chris Michael , Joan E Greve and Pjotr Sauer have put together an explainer on who will finance Ukraine ’s defence as US funding stalls in Congress .

You can read the explainer here:

Georgians have staged protests outside the parliament in Tbilisi this week against what they call “the Russian law”, which they say will align Georgia more closely with Russia and draw it away from the EU .

The news agency reports that the draft legislation would require organisations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as agents of foreign influence, and has been compared by critics to a similar Russian law used to crack down on dissent.

A coalition of opposition groups, civil society, celebrities, and the country’s figurehead president have rallied against the ruling party to oppose the move, according to Reuters.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the situation was being used to “provoke anti-Russian sentiments” and that “it is unlikely that these impulses are being fed from within Georgia.”

“They’re probably coming from the outside,” he told reporters, without elaborating. He said the Kremlin was closely watching developments.

Peskov said it was the US, not Russia, which had pioneered such legislation, referring to the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) of 1938 .

“Now this is a normal practice of a large number of governments that are doing everything to protect themselves from outside influence,” he said.

Here are some of the latest images on the newswires:

A dog stands on rubble as rescuers work at the site of a destroyed building after a Russian missile strike in Chernihiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday.

Russia says it has expelled an Estonian diplomat in retaliatory move

Russia ’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday it had expelled one Estonian embassy official working in Moscow in a retaliatory move, reports Reuters.

The foreign ministry said in a statement that the move was a response to what it called a baseless decision by Estonia to expel a Russian diplomat working in Tallinn .

“It has been brought to the attention of the Estonian side that its hostile activities will always receive a proper response,” the statement said.

Ukraine ’s need for US aid is now acute, according to the Institute for the Study of War , a Washington -based thinktank. “The Russians are breaking out of positional warfare and beginning to restore manoeuvre to the battlefield because of the delays in the provision of US military assistance to Ukraine ,” the ISW said in an assessment late on Tuesday, reports the Associated Press (AP).

“Ukraine cannot hold the present lines now without the rapid resumption of US assistance, particularly air defence and artillery that only the US can provide rapidly and at scale,” it said.

A crucial element for Ukraine is the holdup in Washington of approval for an aid package that includes roughly $60b (£48.1bn/€56.4bn) for Ukraine. House speaker Mike Johnson said on Sunday that he would try to move the package forward this week.

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Things to do in Tbilisi in February
Temperatures on an average day in Tbilisi in February. The average temperature in Tbilisi in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 46°F (8°C) to a low of 26°F (-3°C). Some would describe it as cold with a gentle breeze. For comparison, the hottest month in Tbilisi, July, has days with highs of 89°F (32°C) and lows of 63°F (17°C).The coldest month, January has days with highs ...
Tbilisi in Winter: 22 Cosy & Magical Things to Do
Insider tip: Tbilisi's baths work differently to the ones in Budapest or Istanbul. For a list of my favourite bathhouses and tips for etiquette, make sure you read my complete guide to the Tbilisi sulfur baths. For natural outdoor hot springs in Georgia, see this list. 3. Do a Georgian wine degustation.
14 Unmissable Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia in Winter
February in Tbilisi: highs of 9°C (49°F), lows of 5°C (33°F); ... They are a must-visit place in Tbilisi, in my opinion. Address: 2 Abano St, Tbilisi. 5. Visit the Narikala Fortress in Tbilisi. Established in the 4th century, the Narikala Fortress is an iconic and historical symbol of Tbilisi. It has had Persians, Mongols, and Arabs ...
What to do in Tbilisi in February 2024
Tbilisi Jazz Festival. The Tbilisi Jazz Festival, held in February, attracts music enthusiasts from around the world. This event features talented jazz musicians performing in various venues across the city, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Tbilisi's top places to visit in February
10 BEST Places to Visit in Tbilisi (2024)
Right next to Narikala Fortress is another Tbilisi must-see. The Mother Georgia Statue, aka Kartvlis Deda. Standing atop Sololaki Hill, the 20-metre-tall aluminium statue was designed to celebrate the city's 1500-year anniversary. It depicts a woman in Georgian National Dress holding two things in her hands.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tbilisi
Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia: See Tripadvisor's 199,300 traveler reviews and photos of Tbilisi tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. We have reviews of the best places to see in Tbilisi. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Winter in Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi Winter Weather. Georgia in winter is going to be cold, no doubt about that. However, Tbilisi rarely gets below zero degrees (Celsius), has an average temperature of 5 degrees in December, and snowfall is common. But you're less likely to get wet weather in Tbilisi in winter than if you were to travel in the spring or autumn.
16 Best Things To Do in Tbilisi, Georgia (3-Day Guide)
13. Chronicles of Georgia. One of the best things to do in Tbilisi is a morning trip to the Chronicles of Georgia. Standing 30-meter tall, this massive 16-pilar monument overlooks the Tbilisi sea. The shape, decorations, and structure are spectacular and definitely worth a visit, as it is free to visit and open 24/7.
A Tbilisi Itinerary for 2 Days: How to See All The Highlights?
Day 1, stop 1: Sameba. Sameba Cathedral's grand entrance. Too bad you can't enter that way. Time spent here: 1 hour. Sameba aka the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, is an eye-catching structure that's the city's main church and the best place to start out your itinerary to catch some epic views of the city.
Things To Do Tbilisi In Winter: 9 Beautiful Tbilisi Attractions + Tips
There are many places to see in and around the city of Tbilisi but in this article, we'll be looking at nine of the most interesting and easily accessible Tbilisi attractions including: →→ Roman baths and waterfalls in the old town. →→ Bridge of Peace. →→ Rike Park and the Narikala aerial tramway. →→ Mother Georgia.
Georgia in Winter: Top 10 Places for Snow & Splendid Scenery
3. Borjomi & Bakuriani - hot springs, skiing & winter hikes. Borjomi's Kukushka railway in winter. Located in southern Georgia's Samtskhe-Javakheti region, Borjomi is one of many places in Georgia with natural hot sulfur pools. A trip to the open-air thermal baths is the perfect way to warm up in winter.
A guide to visit Tbilisi (includes off-beat things)
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.
Tbilisi Travel: 30+ Incredible Things To Do & Best Places to Visit in
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.
Must-see attractions Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi. The large Armenian Norasheni Church, dating from 1793, has been long disused but tentative (and still incomplete) renovations began in 2015. Batumi. Kutaisi. Borjomi. Telavi. Sighnaghi. Discover the best attractions in Tbilisi including Narikala Fortress, National Gallery, and Cable Car.
14 Top Things to Do in Tbilisi
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.
The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tbilisi Itinerary
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.
Amazing Things to do in Tbilisi
The Top Ten Best Things to do in Tbilisi. 1. Sameba Cathedral. Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral glows serenely in the evening light. Standing tall and overlooking the city like a shepherd watching over his sheep, stands the gleaming, gold-topped Cathedral of Sameba also known as the Church of the Holy Trinity.
52 Unique Things to Do in Tbilisi: The Ultimate Guide
24. Do a spin on Queen Darejan's balcony. 25. Survey the restored facades on Gudiashvili Square, Agmashenebeli Avenue & Atoneli Street. 26. Say 'Salve' to Tbilisi's entryways. 27. Climb to Tabor Monastery for the best city views. Best things to do in Tbilisi for foodies.
12 Must See Places in Tbilisi, Georgia
The heart of the Caucasus, Tbilisi is one of the world's oldest human settlements — dating back to 4,000 BC! Today, Tbilisi has a creative scene that blends new and old, east and west - making the vibe of the city insanely cool. Drew and I loved strolling through Old Tbilisi's labyrinth of old cobblestone streets, spotting the dome-shaped sulfur baths, and admiring the beautiful homes ...
The Best Things to See and Do in Georgia in Winter
Winter in Georgia is cold and snowy, with an average temperature of 2-4C (36-39F) - some regions even fall below zero sometimes. For those who love visiting snow-covered cities, Tbilisi will be a disappointment. However, there are other towns across the country that see snow in winter. From spas to skiing, here's our pick of the best things to see and do in Georgia during your winter break.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tbilisi?
05 September 2021. Tbilisi enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. Spring in the capital of Georgia is short and warm, sunny days turn into hot summer months by late April. Summers are quite hot and humid, while autumn and winter are reasonably mild - it rarely snows in the capital. We've run through the best months to visit Tbilisi.
The Best Time to Visit Georgia: Month by Month Comparison
→ See my guide to the best places to visit in Georgia in autumn. → See my guide to the best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn. Winter low season in Georgia: November-March. → Best time for winter sports or a quiet city break.
Georgia by February
Re: Georgia by February. 6 years ago. Save. Hi. Take everything warm you can find: Scarf, gloves, hat, jackets, shoes etc. Its winter and temperature at the moment is about +5 in Tbilisi and about -1 in the mountains, at night time its colder. Place you can go are ski resorts, the closest ones from Tbilisi are Gudauri 120km and Bakuriani 175 km.
The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024
Passing Thru Travel. The 15 Best Places to Live and Work Remotely in 2024 - Digital Nomad's Guide to the Globe ... February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024. ... Tbilisi is a city ...
Russia-Ukraine war: Zelenskiy says west must do more after 14 killed in
Colonel Serhii Pakhomov, acting head of the military's atomic, biological and chemical defence forces, said Kyiv had recorded around 900 uses of riot control agents by Russia in the past six ...

Things to do in Tbilisi in February

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Tbilisi International Festival of Theatre

Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater Performances

Tbilisi Jazz Festival

Tbilisi’s top places to visit in February

Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Tbilisi Botanical Garden

Sulfur Baths District (Abanotubani)

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10 BEST Places to Visit in Tbilisi (2024)

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#1 – Tbilisi Old Town – One of the most amazing places in Tbilisi!

#2 – Mtatsminda Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Tbilisi

#3 – Tbilisi Sulphur Baths – One of Tbilisi’s coolest historical sites

#4 – Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre and the Leaning Tower of Georgia – One of the unique places to see in Tbilisi

#5 – Narikala Fortress

#6 – Mother Georgia Statue

#7 – Tbilisi AutoMuseum

#8 – Chronicles of Georgia

#9 – Dry Bridge Flea Market – A great place in Tbilisi if you love to shop

#10 – Bank of Georgia Headquarters – A great place to see in Tbilisi if you love architecture!

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Winter in Tbilisi, Georgia – Your Complete Tbilisi Travel Guide

TBILISI TRAVEL GUIDE

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Best time to visit Tbilisi

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TBILISI IN WINTER

Tbilisi Winter Weather

What to wear in Tbilisi Georgia in Winter

Tbilisi in December

Tbilisi Sightseeing

Best Day trips from Tbilisi Georgia

Christmas in Tbilisi

Best places to eat in Tbilisi

What to buy in Tbilisi

Tbilisi Nightlife

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How to get to Tbilisi Georgia

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16 Things To Do in Tbilisi, Georgia (3-Day Guide)

Day 1 – This is Tbilisi, Georgia

1. Sulfur Baths of Old Tbilisi