Tbilisi is a captivating blend of ancient history, eclectic architecture, and a rapidly evolving culinary scene nestled in a deep valley along the Mtkvari River. It is best visited in late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild and the city's vibrant café culture is in full bloom.
Top Things to Do in Tbilisi
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Getting Around Tbilisi
From the Airport
Bus. Bus number 337 connects the airport to the city center, running every 20-30 minutes for a very low cost. Rideshare. The Bolt app is the most reliable and affordable way to get from the airport to your accommodation, typically costing around 25-40 GEL.
Once You're There
Metro. The Tbilisi Metro is clean, efficient, and very cheap, using a rechargeable Metromoney card for all rides. Walking. The historic center is very walkable, though the city is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes. Rideshare. Bolt is the standard rideshare app used throughout the city and is highly recommended for convenience.
Where to Stay in Tbilisi
Hotel picks for Tbilisi are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Tbilisi
Pasanauri★ 4.7 (4,792)2 Viktor Dolidze St, T'bilisi, GeorgiaAn essential stop for any first-timer, this institution is legendary for its perfectly crafted khinkali dumplings.
Radio Cafe★ 4.6 (4,020)29 Atoneli St, T'bilisi 0100, GeorgiaA trendy, artist-focused space that serves excellent fusion dishes in a retro-inspired setting.
Barbarestan★ 4.6 (2,986)D, 132 Davit Aghmashenebeli Ave, T'bilisi 0112, GeorgiaThis unique restaurant bases its entire menu on 19th-century recipes from the cookbook of Duchess Barbare Jorjadze.
Salobie Bia★ 4.6 (2,682)Rustaveli Theater, 17 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi 0108, GeorgiaThis cozy spot is widely considered the best place in the city to try authentic lobio served in traditional clay pots.
Shavi Lomi★ 4.5 (3,963)PR54+9FV, Zurab Kvlividze St, T'bilisi, GeorgiaKnown as the 'Black Lion,' this bohemian eatery offers a creative menu that perfectly balances Georgian classics with modern culinary techniques.
Ezo★ 4.4 (1,348)16 Geronti Kikodze St, T'bilisi 0105, GeorgiaLocated in a quiet courtyard, this farm-to-table restaurant is beloved for its commitment to organic, locally sourced produce.
Keto and Kote★ 4.3 (2,839)3 მიხეილ ზანდუკელის ჩიხი, 3 თორაძის ჩიხი, T'bilisi 0179, GeorgiaHoused in a beautiful historic building, it offers a sophisticated atmosphere with panoramic views and excellent Georgian wine pairings.
Culinarium Khasheria★ 4.3 (505)9 Samghebro St, T'bilisi 0108, GeorgiaLocated right in the heart of the bath district, it specializes in refined, nutritious Georgian comfort food.
Tone★ 4.3 (276)8 Egnate Ninoshvili St, T'bilisi 0112, GeorgiaA tiny, hole-in-the-wall bakery that produces some of the most authentic shoti bread in the city.
Cafe Littera★ 4.2 (1,309)0105, 13 Ivane Machabeli St, T'bilisi, GeorgiaSet in a stunning garden, this restaurant is famous for its elevated take on traditional Georgian flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Tbilisi
Old Town Charms and Heights
Morning. Start your journey in the heart of Old Tbilisi by wandering through the winding, cobblestone streets that feel like a portal to the past. Make your way toward the iconic Clock Tower of Gabriadze Theatre, which puts on a charming mechanical show every hour. From there, walk toward the Sioni Cathedral to admire its medieval frescoes and serene atmosphere. It is best to arrive early to avoid the crowds that gather by mid-morning. Finally, head to the base of the cable car near Rike Park to prepare for your ascent.
Afternoon. Take the aerial cable car from Rike Park up to the Narikala Fortress for the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Spend time exploring the ruins of the fortress walls before walking down the slope toward the Abanotubani district, famous for its domed sulfur baths. You can spend an hour wandering the colorful lanes and viewing the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, a hidden natural gem tucked behind the bathhouses. Afterward, stop for a quick snack at a nearby bakery before heading toward the riverbank. This area is highly walkable, but be prepared for steep inclines.
Evening. Cross the futuristic Bridge of Peace as the sun sets and the structure begins its mesmerizing LED light display. Walk along the Mtkvari River embankment to enjoy the shifting city skyline as the evening lights flicker on. Find a table at a restaurant in the nearby Shardeni Street area, which is the epicenter of the city's nightlife and dining scene. If you have energy left, grab a glass of amber wine at a local wine bar to end the night properly. The atmosphere here is lively, bustling, and quintessentially Georgian.
Culture and Grandeur
Morning. Begin your day on the grand Rustaveli Avenue, the city's main artery, which is lined with imposing 19th-century architecture. Visit the National Museum of Georgia to get an essential crash course in the country's complex history, specifically the Archaeological Treasury. Afterward, stroll past the Opera and Ballet Theatre with its stunning Moorish-style façade. The boulevard is wide and perfect for people-watching, so take your time and soak in the urban energy. Make sure to stop at a local kiosk for a quick coffee before continuing toward the parliament building.
Afternoon. Take the funicular railway up to Mtatsminda Park, a sprawling hilltop park that offers the best vantage point in the entire city. Once at the top, explore the various gardens and the nostalgic amusement rides that have been a staple for generations. It is a fantastic spot to escape the city heat and enjoy a picnic or a quiet walk through the forested paths. If you are hungry, there is a legendary restaurant at the summit known for its doughnuts and coffee. Stay for a few hours to witness the afternoon light hitting the valley below.
Evening. Head back down to the city center and make your way to the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, also known as Sameba. This massive, golden-domed landmark is visible from almost anywhere in the city and is particularly striking when illuminated at night. Spend time walking through the expansive cathedral grounds, which offer a peaceful contrast to the busy streets below. Once you have finished your visit, head to a nearby district like Vera to find a more local, neighborhood-style dining experience. It is the perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Markets and Hidden Gems
Morning. Start your morning at the Dry Bridge Market, an incredible open-air flea market that is a treasure trove for antique lovers. You will find everything from Soviet-era memorabilia and vintage cameras to handmade jewelry and traditional daggers. It is best to arrive around 10:00 AM when the vendors are fully set up but before the peak heat of the day. Spend at least two hours browsing the stalls, as there is always something unique to discover. Afterward, walk toward the nearby Dedaena Park to relax under the shade of the trees.
Afternoon. Explore the creative side of the city by visiting the Fabrika district, a former Soviet sewing factory turned into a massive multi-functional urban space. The courtyard is filled with street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafes that attract the city's youth. It is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or simply enjoy a craft beer in a very cool, industrial-chic environment. From there, venture into the surrounding Marjanishvili neighborhood to see the authentic, non-touristy side of Tbilisi architecture. You will find many hidden courtyards that reveal the true character of the city.
Evening. Conclude your trip by exploring the bohemian streets of the Sololaki neighborhood, known for its stunning Art Nouveau doorways and hidden balconies. Many of these historic buildings have been preserved, and walking through this area feels like stepping into a 1920s novel. As you wander, look for the famous 'Kalantarov House' to admire its intricate facade. For your final dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in traditional Supra-style feasting to celebrate your last night. It is the perfect, atmospheric ending to a trip through one of the Caucasus' most enchanting cities.