Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a vibrant city situated on the banks of the Mtkvari River. With a population of around 1.2 million, it's a bustling hub that blends ancient history with modern charm. From its historic sites to lively nightlife, Tbilisi offers a unique mix of culture, architecture, and cuisine that attracts visitors from around the world. Tbilisi has historically been home to Georgians, Armenians, Jews, Persians, and Russians. The city’s nickname is “The City of Tolerance.”

⚫️ Explore the Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Wander through cobblestone streets, colourful balconies, historic churches, and lively courtyards. It’s the city's soul — and a great place to get lost.

Don’t miss: Anchiskhati Basilica (oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, and one of the most historically significant buildings in Georgia. Built around 522 AD), Sioni Cathedral (one of the most iconic and spiritually substantial landmarks in Tbilisi — deeply rooted in Georgian history and Orthodox tradition. Built in the 6th–7th century), the quirky Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre-What Makes It Special?

The Clock Tower!

An iconic fairy-tale-like clock tower stands beside the theatre — tilted, colourful, and charming.

Every hour, a mechanical angel rings a bell, and at noon & 19:00, a small puppet show plays out from the upper window (“The Circle of Life”).

⚫️ Relax in the Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani)

Take a soak in the famous natural sulfur baths — a centuries-old tradition said to heal both body and mind.

Tip: Choose a private room for a more authentic experience. Try Gulo’s or Chreli Abano for atmosphere.

From the rooftops of the domed sulfur baths across the river Mtkvari you can see the colourful balconies of Avlabari.

⚫️ Ride the Cable Car to Narikala Fortress

Get stunning views over the city and the Mtkvari River, then hike down past the fortress and the Botanical Garden, nestled beneath the Narikala Fortress in the heart of the capital, The garden stretches across over 160 hectares and features over 4,500 plant species from Georgia and around the world. It’s a perfect mix of nature, history, and tranquillity, with well-maintained paths, waterfalls, bridges, and shaded picnic spots.

⚫️ Discover Local Art, Music & Culture

Rustaveli Avenue often called the cultural spine of Tbilisi, is home to many of the city’s most important museums, galleries, and historic buildings. If you’re exploring art, history, and Georgian identity, this is the place to be.

📍Georgian National Museum,

📍National Gallery (Blue Gallery),

📍Art Palace (Museum of Cultural History),

📍Museum of Modern Art (MoMA Tbilisi),

📍Literature Museum (aka Writers’ House of Georgia),

• Rustaveli Theatre – A cultural gem and architectural beauty.

• Tbilisi Opera House – Grand and ornate; sometimes offers exhibitions or tours.

⚫️ Rustaveli–Mtatsminda Cable Car

A quick, scenic ride (about 5 minutes) straight up the hill. Fantastic panoramic views of Tbilisi, the Mtkvari River, and the surrounding mountains. Easy access to Mtatsminda Park’s attractions — from the Ferris wheel to cafés and hiking trails.

If you are interested in Soviet-Era Icons here are:

📍 The Bank of Georgia Headquarters- Brutalist, “Lego-block” style structure built in 1975.

📍 Chronicle of Georgia Monument (near Tbilisi Sea)-Gigantic stone pillars depicting Georgian kings and Christian history.

Modern Architecture & Innovation

📍Bridge of Peace

Sleek glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge over the Mtkvari River.

📍Public Service Hall

Also known as the “Mushroom Building” due to its futuristic, umbrella-like roof.

📍Rike Concert Hall & Exhibition Centre

Two massive, tubular buildings in Rike Park.

Tbilisi is full of expressive, symbolic, and sometimes quirky sculptures that tell stories of its past, culture, and creativity. Here’s a list of the most famous sculptures you’ll find across the city:

Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda)

📍 Sololaki Hill (above the Old Town)

An iconic 20-meter-tall aluminium statue overlooking Tbilisi. She holds a sword in one hand (to defend) and a bowl of wine in the other (to welcome guests).

A powerful symbol of Georgian identity and hospitality.

Tamada (The Toastmaster)

📍 Sharden Street, Old Tbilisi

A small bronze figure holding a horn — representing the traditional Georgian toastmaster, an important role at any supra (feast).

Based on an ancient Colchian sculpture; it symbolises Georgian hospitality and eloquence.

Berikaoba Sculpture

📍 Narikala Tourist Trail

Depicts characters from the ancient Georgian folk festival Berikaoba, where masked performers act out satire and social scenes.

Wild, expressive faces and movement captured in bronze.

Ketevan the Martyr Monument

📍 Avlabari

Honours Queen Ketevan, a 17th-century Georgian martyr executed in Persia.

The sculpture shows her in a moment of spiritual power and dignity.

Children’s Faces Fountain (Europe Square)

📍 Near Rike Park

A circular fountain with childlike faces carved into stone, symbolising innocence and unity.

Often missed, but quietly beautiful.

Peace Monument (Tbilisi Hills)

📍 Upper Tbilisi

Less known, but a tall, modern structure often used to represent reconciliation and a lookout point.

Bronze Cat Sculptures

📍 Near Dry Bridge Market / Deda Ena Park

Small hidden bronze cats are scattered around the area — fun urban art details.

Talking about The Dry Bridge Market, it is one of Tbilisi’s most vibrant and unique open-air markets, famous for its colourful mix of antiques, Soviet memorabilia, handmade crafts, and local art. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the quirky, creative soul of the city.

Here you will find:

Antiques & Collectables: Old cameras, vinyl records, Soviet medals, typewriters, pocket watches, military badges, maps, coins, and vintage electronics.

Great for treasure hunters and history lovers.

Local Art

Paintings by Georgian artists — often affordable and done in unique folk or abstract styles.

Many artists sell their work directly on the pavement or nearby railings.

Handmade Items

Jewellery, textiles, enamelware, wooden carvings, and more.

Ideal for finding authentic, handcrafted souvenirs.

Photography Goldmine

The displays are super photogenic — think rows of rusted keys, faded portraits, and vintage silverware under the trees.

Bring cash and remember that bargaining is common and expected.

Got hungry after all this walking and exploring?!

Georgian cuisine is rich, hearty, and full of bold flavours — a delicious fusion of Caucasian, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European influences.

Here are must-try Georgian dishes that give you a true taste of the country:

Khachapuri (Cheese Bread)

The national dish — every region has its version!

Adjarian Khachapuri: Boat-shaped, filled with melted cheese, topped with a raw egg and butter. Stir and eat hot.

Imeretian Khachapuri: Round, flat bread stuffed with cheese.

Khinkali (Juicy Dumplings)

Filled with meat (usually beef/pork), herbs, and broth.

Hold by the top, bite, sip the juice, then eat — don’t eat the knot!

Vegetarian versions with mushrooms, cheese, or potatoes are also available.

Badrijani Nigvzit (Aubergine/Eggplant with Walnut Paste)

Fried aubergine slices rolled around a garlicky walnut paste, often topped with pomegranate seeds.

A perfect cold starter — earthy, rich, and creamy.

Lobio (Bean Stew)

A hearty red bean stew cooked with herbs, onions, garlic, and sometimes coriander.

Often served in clay pots with cornbread (mchadi) and pickles.

Pkhali

A mix of finely chopped vegetables (like spinach, beetroot, or leeks) blended with walnuts, garlic, and spices.

Served cold with pomegranate seeds. A healthy and flavorful appetiser.

Chakhokhbili (Herbed Chicken Stew)

Tender chicken simmered in tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs like cilantro and tarragon.

Comfort food with deep, rustic flavour.

Chkmeruli

It is one of Georgia’s most beloved traditional dishes — a rich, garlicky chicken in creamy garlic sauce.

It’s often served bubbling hot in a clay pan, making it a favourite comfort food in Georgian homes and restaurants.

Satsivi

Chicken or turkey in a cold walnut-garlic sauce.

Rich, creamy, and usually served during holidays.

Mtsvadi (Georgian BBQ)

Grilled meat skewers (usually pork or lamb) are cooked over an open flame.

Often served with tkemali (sour plum sauce) and fresh bread.

Chakapuli

A bright, tangy stew made with tarragon, white wine, lamb (or veal), and green herbs.

Traditional during spring and Easter.

Churchkhela

The famous Georgian “candy” — walnuts (or hazelnuts) strung together and dipped in thickened grape juice (tatara).

Naturally sweet and chewy.

Pelamushi

Traditional Georgian dessert made from grape juice and cornmeal — simple, rich, and naturally sweet.

It has a pudding-like texture and is usually served cold, especially during the grape harvest season in autumn.

• Georgia is the cradle of wine, with 8,000 years of winemaking tradition.

• Chacha: A powerful grape spirit, often homemade.

• Fizzy sweet drink/Soda, must try: Taragon or Nagebi flavours.

Georgia is world-renowned for its natural mineral waters, which have been used for centuries for their therapeutic and healing properties. Thanks to the country’s rich volcanic geology, these waters are diverse in composition, taste, and health benefits. Here’s a guide to the most famous ones:

Borjomi

• Region: Borjomi Gorge (central Georgia)

• Type: Naturally carbonated, sodium bicarbonate mineral water

• Taste: Slightly salty and metallic due to high mineral content

• Benefits: Aids digestion, liver function, and metabolism

• Famous for: Its therapeutic use since the 19th century; once exported across the Russian Empire

• Best served: Cold, on its own or as a hangover cure

Nabeghlavi

• Region: Guria (western Georgia)

• Type: Naturally carbonated, rich in minerals

• Taste: Softer than Borjomi, slightly sweet finish

• Benefits: Helps with gastrointestinal and kidney issues

• Famous for: A top rival to Borjomi in popularity — smooth and easy to drink

Likani

• Region: Near Borjomi

• Type: Low-carbonation mineral water

• Taste: Milder than Borjomi, slightly mineral-rich

• Benefits: Digestive aid and general wellness

• Often used in: Spa treatments at resorts in Borjomi and Likani

Sairme

• Region: Imereti (Sairme village)

• Type: Several types — both still and sparkling mineral waters

• Taste: Varies by spring — light and refreshing

• Benefits: Supports liver, gallbladder, and urinary tract health

• Fun fact: The area also features a famous health resort with spa treatments

Bakhmaro

• Region: Guria highlands

• Type: Pure mountain spring water

• Taste: Crisp and clean, low in minerals

• Use: Often bottled for drinking, not medicinal

• Perfect for: Everyday hydration

Zvare

• Region: Near Tskaltubo

• Type: Sulfuric mineral water

• Use: Often for bathing and spa treatments, not typically consumed

• Benefits: Helps with skin, joint, and nerve conditions

Have you heard about Sukhishvilebi?

Officially known as the Georgian National Ballet.

It is one of Georgia’s most iconic and internationally renowned cultural institutions. Founded in 1945 by Iliko Sukhishvili and his wife Nino Ramishvili, it revolutionised the way traditional Georgian dance was performed and perceived, both at home and globally.

Sukhishvilebi has toured over 90 countries, performing more than 10,000 shows.

Praised by the New York Times, BBC, and world leaders for their stunning artistry and cultural depth.

Wanna See Them?

Tbilisi Concert Hall is their main stage, but they also tour nationally and internationally.

Special gala shows are held during national holidays or cultural festivals.

Last but not least

The Ethnographic Museum of Tbilisi is a must-visit open-air museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s diverse regional cultures, architecture, and traditions — all in one place.

Situated on the hillside of Turtle Lake, just above Vake Park, founded in 1966 by famous Georgian historian Giorgi Chitaia, showcases authentic houses and buildings from all over Georgia — from the mountains of Svaneti to the plains of Kakheti — each reconstructed piece by piece.

Wanna go shopping in Tbilisi?

Galleria Tbilisi- Very central location Liberty Square.

City Mall Saburtalo-Saburtalo district (central-west Tbilisi)

East Point-Kakheti Highway (near the airport road)

Tbilisi Mall- Dighomi district (outskirts of the city, ~20 mins from the centre) if you are travelling from

Tbilisi to the west you won't miss it.

⚫️ Bazaars (markets) are a vibrant, essential part of daily life — places where you can truly experience Georgian culture through food, spices, antiques, crafts, and people. Here’s a guide to the best and most interesting bazaars in Tbilisi:

Dezertirebi (Dezerter) Bazaar

📍 Near Station Square Metro

The largest traditional food market in Tbilisi.

Here you will find freshly produced, spices, churchkhela, cheese, pickles, meats, qvevri wine, and household goods.

Meidan Bazaar

📍 Old Tbilisi, under the bridge near Abanotubani.

Great for souvenirs and handicrafts in a cosy underground setting. You will find here enamel jewellery, carpets, nazars, handmade soaps, wine, and ceramics.

Ideal stop during sightseeing in Old Town.

Navtlugi Market (Samgori)

📍 East Tbilisi, Samgori district

A sprawling local market for food, clothes, tools, and flowers. Far less touristy — you’ll see real local shopping habits.

Eliava Market

📍 West Tbilisi

A huge industrial-style market known for tools, car parts, home goods, and tech gear. Not for sightseeing, not very touristy but here you will find bits and bobs.

The Tbilisi Metro is a fast, affordable, and efficient way to get around the city — and a great way to experience a piece of Soviet-era architecture blended with modern upgrades.

Opened: 1966 (one of the oldest in the Caucasus)

Has two lines: Akhmeteli–Varketili Line (Red) and Saburtalo Line (Green)

Operates from 6:00 AM to Midnight

Fare: 1 GEL per ride.

Use a Metromoney card — reusable and valid on buses and cable cars too. One card works for multiple people (just tap once per rider). You can buy it at any station for 2 GEL and top up with cash or a card.

Taxis in Tbilisi are affordable and there are a few international taxi companies. I highly recommend using the application and avoiding flagging random taxis on the street.

In Tbilisi or any other airport in Georgia, you have access to several reliable mobile network providers, offering good 4G coverage, affordable data, and tourist SIM packages.