Finding Out About Tbilisi’s Classical Charm
The lively capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, is in the middle of the Caucasus Mountains. Like the cobblestone streets of its Old Town, the city’s past and modernity are mixed together. Tbilisi has a unique mix of old-world charm and modern flair, with everything from old castles to hipster hubs in converted Soviet factories. Tbilisi Unveiled: Lazywazy’s Guide to Where Old Meets New in Georgia is a complete guide that will show you the city’s culture, architecture, food, and secret gems. Tbilisi has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, food, or being a digital traveler and looking for ideas. We are going to take a trip through a city that is proud of its battle scars and loves having tourists.
Tbilisi is a city of contrasts because it has a mix of old and new.
The history of Tbilisi goes back more than 1,500 years. It was started by King Vakhtang Gorgasali in the 5th century. People say that the city’s name, which comes from the Georgian word tbili, which means “warm,” comes from its acidic hot springs, which are still an important part of the culture. Over the course of several hundred years, the Romans, the Persians, the Ottomans, and the Russians all came to Tbilisi and changed its buildings and culture in permanent ways. Nowadays, the city has both old and new buildings next to each other, like medieval churches and sleek modern buildings. This makes for a dynamic urban scene that feels both timeless and forward-looking.
A Trip Through Time in Old Town (Kala)
The Old Town, or Kala, is the center of Tbilisi. It is a maze of small streets, colorful wooden balconies, and historic sites. Every corner in this neighborhood tells a different story, making it feel like you’re walking into a fairy tale. Some important sites are
- Narikala Castle: This castle from the 4th century is perched on a hill with a view of the Mtkvari River and is a must-see. From Rike Park, you can take the cable car up to get a beautiful view of Tbilisi’s city. With its worn-down stone walls, the castle shows how strong the city is.
- The Sioni Cathedral is an Orthodox beauty that was built in the sixth century and rebuilt in the thirteenth. It holds a relic of the True Cross. Its beautiful paintings and calm atmosphere give us a look into Georgia’s spiritual history.
- The Abanotubani Sulfur Baths are Tbilisi’s oldest wellness practice. They are located under the fortress and have dome-shaped bathhouses. For as little as 40 GEL ($15 USD), you can soak in a private room at Chreli Abano. People say that the healing waters can ease the pain of gout.
Modern Marvels: The Up-To-Date Side of Tbilisi
The modern side of Tbilisi is just as interesting, with its cutting-edge architecture and lively culture hubs. The changes in the city can be seen in places like
- Bridge of Peace: This bow-shaped bridge for pedestrians links Rike Park to Old Tbilisi. It was designed by the Italian architect Michele De Lucchi. Its glass roof and LED light show at night are a sign of how forward-thinking Georgia is.
- Fabrika is the center of Tbilisi’s artistic renaissance. It used to be a Soviet-era sewing factory but is now a cultural hub. With a hostel, bars, cafes, and murals by local artists, it draws both young tourists and people who live in the area. Especially on the weekends, the area is full of life.
- Rike Park is a modern urban park with well-kept gardens, a musical fountain, and two stunning metal display halls designed by Massimiliano Fuksas. With views of the Mtkvari River, it’s a great place for a walk or a picnic.
Immersion in Culture: Feeling Tbilisi’s Soul
The art, music, and customs of Tbilisi make up its rich culture. The city’s famously friendly people and artsy atmosphere make it a great place for creative people and tourists who want to try new things.
Murals and art on the street
Thanks to artists like LAMB, Tbilisi’s streets are like outdoor art galleries. Their funny paintings often show Georgian foods like khinkali (soup dumplings). For the best street art, check out the underpasses near Baratashvili Bridge or the walls around Fabrika. A local project called Niko adds new murals to the city’s scene all the time. For more information, go to the Georgian National Museum on Rustaveli Avenue. It has a moving exhibit about Soviet rule as well as gold artifacts and fossils of humans. It costs 5 GEL ($2 USD) to get in.
Music and going out at night
The techno scene and live music places in Tbilisi give the city a modern feel while still preserving its history. DJs and partygoers from all over the world go to places like Bassiani, which used to be a swimming pool. For a more laid-back evening, the Old Town Cafe Gallery has live music and a cozy feel. The city’s nightlife shows how young it is, with bars like Fabrika’s garden staying busy until the wee hours of the morning.
Georgian Hospitality and the High Court
A supra, a traditional Georgian feast, is something that you must do when you go to Tbilisi. At these events, which are led by a toastmaster, people enjoy life with endless toasts, wine, and foods like ghandzili (pickled wild garlic) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread). Barbarestan is a family-run restaurant in a building that used to be a meat cellar. It serves traditional supra using recipes from a cookbook from the 1800s.
A Taste of Tbilisi: Delicious Food
Georgian food, which combines Eastern and Western tastes with seasonal ingredients, is one of the best things about visiting Tbilisi. The city has a wide range of places, from small, casual spots to fancy restaurants.
Must-Try Foods
- Georgians love these juicy soup dumplings called khinkali. Before you eat the rest, pinch the top, take a small bite, and sip the water. You can get them at Pasanauri in Old Town.
- The Adjarian version, which is made like a boat and filled with gooey cheese and eggs, is a hit with everyone. Cafe Stamba offers a rich version.
- The churchkhela is a sweet treat made of nuts dipped in grape juice that is often sold at Dezerter Bazaar.
Where to Eat
- Chaduna is a small café in Old Town that serves strong coffee and homemade pastries that are great for breakfast.
- Thai in Town serves surprisingly real Thai food that is a nice change from Georgian food. People who live abroad and tourists love it.
- 8000 Vintages is a wine bar and shop in the middle of the city that is a great place to try Georgia’s old wines. To learn how to make wine in a qvevri (clay jar), book a class with a teacher.
Grocery stores and food tours
The Dezerter Bazaar, which is close to Tbilisi’s main train station, is a sensory overload of fresh food, spices, and homemade sauces. Walk around the stalls to get a feel for how people live there, or take a cooking class to learn how to make foods like khinkali. Eat This Tours offers food walks that are both educational and delicious.
Looking Outside the City Center
Georgia has a lot of different scenery, and day trips from Tbilisi can give you a tasTrips for the day mountains, monasteries, and wine regions of the country.
The Funicular and Mtatsminda Park
Mount Mtatsminda Park is 770 meters above the city. To get there, take the lift. There is a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and beautiful views at the park. The Funicular Restaurant is a great place for lunch because it serves real Georgian food. You can get into the park for free, but things cost a few GEL.
Day Trips
- The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery are in Mtskheta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site 30 minutes from Tbilisi. It costs 1 GEL to take a bus from Didube Station.
- Kakheti Wine Region: Kakheti is Georgia’s wine country and is about an hour’s drive east. You can taste wine at family-run wineries as part of a GetYourGuide trip. The best time for grape harvest events is in September.
- Kazbegi: This mountain area is three hours north and has stunning views of the Caucasus. Take a break at Ananuri Fortress on the way.
Tips You Can Use When You Go to Tbilisi
Getting Around
With two lines that go to important places, Tbilisi’s metro works well. It takes 1 GEL to ride one time. The 24/7 airport route, which costs 0.50 GEL, is a cheap way to get around. To stay safe and escape taxi scams, use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Yandex. In Old Town, you can walk around the city, but be sure to wear comfy shoes because the streets are cobblestone.
Where to Stay
Tbilisi offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget, from charming guesthouses to luxury hotels. For unique stays, consider booking through Vrbo for cozy apartments in Old Town or modern lofts near Rustaveli Avenue. Alternatively, Hotels.com has a wide selection of hotels with flexible cancellation policies. Here are some recommendations. :
- Budget: The Pushkin 10 Hostel is close to Old Town and has bright rooms with a social vibe. Book via Hotels.com for competitive rates.
- Mid-Range: Old Town Mtatsminda, a family-run hotel with easy access to attractions, available on Vrbo for a homely experience.
- Luxury: The Biltmore Hotel on Rustaveli Avenue combines modern elegance with city views and is listed on Hotels.com.
Safety and Etiquette
Tbilisi is generally safe, with low crime rates and welcoming locals. However, stay vigilant in crowded areas like Meidan Bazaar to avoid pickpocketing. Respect religious sites by dressing modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Learn basic Georgian phrases like gamarjoba (hello) and madloba (thank you) to connect with locals.
FAQs: Your Tbilisi Questions Answered
Is it safe to go to Tbilisi right now?
Tbilisi is considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates compared to many Western cities. Exercise standard precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Travel insurance, like SafetyWing, is recommended for unexpected incidents. Check U.S. State Department advisories for the latest updates.
What country is Tbilisi in?
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia, a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bordered by Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Not to be confused with the U.S. state of Georgia.
What is Tbilisi famous for?
Tbilisi is renowned for its sulfur baths, ancient fortresses like Narikala, and vibrant food and wine culture. It’s also famous for its blend of Eastern and Western influences, colorful Old Town, and status as a hub for Georgian hospitality and winemaking, dating back 8,000 years.
Does Georgia Tbilisi speak English?
English is widely spoken among younger Georgians and those in tourism. Older generations may speak Russian. Basic Georgian phrases can enhance your experience, but you’ll manage fine with English in restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
Is Tbilisi good for tourists?
Absolutely! Tbilisi offers a mix of history, culture, affordability, and safety, making it ideal for tourists. Its walkable Old Town, diverse cuisine, and proximity to natural wonders like Kazbegi appeal to solo travelers, families, and adventurers alike.
Conclusion: Why Tbilisi Should Be Your Next Adventure
Tbilisi Unveiled: Lazywazy’s Guide to Where Old Meets New in Georgia showcases a city that’s as dynamic as it is historic. From the ancient walls of Narikala Fortress to the trendy vibes of Fabrika, Tbilisi is a destination that surprises and delights at every turn. Its affordability, safety, and cultural richness make it an ideal choice for U.S. travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path European experience. Whether you’re soaking in a sulfur bath, sipping qvevri wine, or wandering the colorful streets of Old Town, Tbilisi will leave you enchanted and eager to return. Pack your bags, book your stay through Vrbo or Hotels.com, and let Tbilisi’s magic unfold before you.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links to Vrbo and Hotels.com. If you make a purchase or booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the creation of free, high-quality content like this guide. Thank you for your support!