Tbilisi, the largest and the capital city of Georgia (country), is located in Eurasia. For this strategic location of Tbilisi, it is also known as the “Balcony of Europe” – a perfect blend of European and Asian cultures. A little, hidden gem in Eurasia, Tbilisi is a journey to hospitality and culture. Georgia not only captivates your mind or body but it mesmerizes your soul too. Let’s go through Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions which passes along 4th-century historic lanes, Soviet-era houses, nature parks, funky Georgian cafes, religious places, and many more. Take a virtual Tbilisi city tour with me and check some best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions – Things to do in Tbilisi Georgia
I started my Tbilisi city tour from Old Tbilisi and I have booked my stay there only. I stayed in the Art Boutique Hotel which is a boutique-style hotel with a lovely breakfast and views of the city located on Rustaveli Street. Click here to book your stay.
WHEN TO VISIT TBILISI? | Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
- Tbilisi is worth visiting all year round. Many people come here in winter to enjoy nearby ski resorts.
- Tbilisi in Autumn or Spring looks very beautiful due to the Fall colors of spring flowers.
- Summertime is the peak time and you see many tourists here during this season.
THINGS TO DO IN TBILISI – Highlights of Tbilisi SightSeeing Attractions
Nightlife in Tbilisi – Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
Tbilisi has few hangouts as evenings here are very beautiful due to special illuminations all over the city skyline. Here are some chilling zones or hangouts.
- Bauhaus Bar
- Bassiani
- Fabrika
- Art Cafe Home
- Drunk Owl
CABLE CAR TO NARIKALA FORTRESS – Things to do in Tbilisi Old town
Take a Cable Car to 4th-century Narikala Fortress for stunning views of whole Tbilisi. Here you can walk along with the remnants of this ancient fortress which was earlier Persian CITADEL and was renamed as Narin Qala by Mongols in the 11th/12th In the 19th century, this fortress was damaged by natural calamities.
The Cable Car takes around 1 Georgian Lari approximately for the One-way trip. You will ride over the old architecture to reach the top. From the top, you can see Old Tbilisi town on one side of river Mtkvari and some strange modern architectures on another side of the river.
WALKING ALONG WITH OLD TOWN – Things to do in Tbilisi Georgia
As I told you to take a Cable car only for one way trip – just to climb up the fortress and to get down, hike through the ancient town. While walking down from the Narikala Fortress top, you will pass along old architecture, Small Soviet-style houses with lovely balconies. Many of these houses are converted into hostels/homestays for tourists. I recommend having a stay there.
Map of Old Town with hotel stays…..
REZO GABRIADZE THEATRE – Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
As you are going through the narrow ancient lanes of Old Town, you will pass along this famous and unique clock tower of theatre. This Leaning Tower was created by Georgian Puppeteer Rezo Gabriadze and so it is named after him. This theatre is famous for special puppet shows. You can also witness these special clock shows at every hour depicting – CIRCLE OF LIFE – Boy meets Girl, Marriage, Child Birth & Funeral.
BRIDGE OF PEACE
After having an Old Town tour, walk along the Pedestrian Walkway on Bridge of Peace – a Unique Architecture constructed on Mtkvari River. It was built by an Italian Architect which is 156m in length and has 10,000 LED bulbs. These bulbs illuminate in a special pattern before sunset. This bridge comes under one of the most Top 13 Unusual Bridges in the world. This bridge connects to Rike Park on the other side and is famous for having beautiful views of Tbilisi city with its famous skyline having Narikala fortress and ancient houses.
HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL OF TBILISI
An Orthodox Church of Tbilisi is also known as Samba. This cathedral is one of the biggest Orthodox Cathedrals in the world. It was built in 2004 with a blend of modernism and old traditions. Ladies require scarves & skirts to enter and Man should not wear short trousers. If you are not carrying then it is available at the entrance.
ABANOTUBAMI SULPHUR BATHS
Visit this historic place where it is believed that the city was built on place. Hot Sulphur waters springing out from undergrounds are known for their Natural Healing capabilities especially to the skin. You can also book private chambers for Sulphur baths on an hourly basis or can go along with Public Sulphur Baths. They are covered in ancient styled rooms. As Tbilisi is known for its natural thermal baths, read more about visiting the Thermal Bath’s in Tbilisi. CAUTION – Do not wear metallic or stoned jewelry as Sulphur waters can harm metals and stones. Also, water is steamy or very hot but not bad for your skin. Your skin will not get burnt. Take an extra pair of clothes for changing. Sulfur baths are the most unique Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions.
NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDENS OF TBILISI
Spread along 160 hectares and consisting of special 4,500 plant species, this garden is located at the Narikala Fortress foothills and spread towards the top of the hills.
FREEDOM SQUARE
This is a very prominent place in Tbilisi and you cross this square several times during your Its history is associated with many mass demonstrations including the famous Georgian Independence from the Soviet Union. Also, you can have a look at Tbilisi City Hall which is located here. This square branches into 6 streets. In the center, there is a Granite column with a gilded statue of St. George. This square is the busy square of Tbilisi with great architecture and luxurious hotels.
MTATSMINDA PARK
Take a Funicular to this park on the mountain or you can go by road too. From there have great views of Tbilisi city and during clear weather, you can even spot the Caucasus mountain ranges and its highest peak – Mt. Kazbek. There is a Ferris wheel on the top – Tbilisi Eye for a view of the whole You can also go to Bombora Amusement Park. Mtatsminda Park tops the list in things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
EVENING / NIGHT WALK AT SHARDENI STREET
Named after French Traveler Jean Chardin, this narrow Pedestrian street is a vibrant center of the city’s cultural, social & Night Life. This street is lined up with quirky galleries, fashionable cafes, funky Georgian bars, etc. This is a crowded street full of a young and lively crowd, musical shows/cafes, and Karaoke. The stroll across vibrant streets of Shardeni must also be added to your Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions.
RUSTAVELI AVENUE
Walk along Rustaveli Aveny which starts from Freedom Square and is approximately it is 1.5 km long. During this walk, you will pass along a large number of Government Institutions like the Georgian Academy of Science, Tbilisi Opera Theatre, Museums, Former Parliament of Georgia, Church, and many more. Rustaveli Street is the main arterial road of Tbilisi. Also, you will find high-end branded shopping here. There are many luxurious stay options too.
GEORGIAN FOOD AT MACHAKELA or BREAD&WINE Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
Try Georgian Cuisine at Caucasian Restaurant located at foothills of Narikala Fortress – MACHAKELA. Machakela is a traditional Georgian Pastry chain. It is famous for its Khachapuri – a special boat-shaped Georgian bread with Egg and cheese floating on it. All bread is made on a wood-fired Also bean Bread – Lobiyani & bean Soup – Lobiyo is very famous in this place. Vegetarians would love this place as they have many vegetarian varieties. Two floored restaurants with balconies facing the river, the old city is a favorite of many tourists and locals. It is always crowded.
Tbilisi is the hidden gem of Eastern Europe and also has been referred to as Berlin of East Europe in many magazines due to its emerging night and club life. Also, it is the fastest Emerging coolest city with its urban atmosphere. Tbilisi is magical in the day as well as in the evening. Enjoy Tbilisi during day and night – both times.
Tips for First-Timers in Tbilisi – Things to do in Tbilisi – Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
- Tbilisi can be done by walking Tours i.e. by foot.
- Stay near Narikala Fortress or Soviet-style homes turned into hostels in Old Town.
- Taxis are very cheap and you can also use your bargaining skills.
- Tbilisi is a great place for Art lovers as there is a special street with lots of Paintings sold on the streets by artists themselves. Also, Tbilisi has a wide range of art galleries for display and art exhibitions.
- Tbilisi has many staying options and you can choose your favorite areas for the stay by reading this.
DAY TRIPS FROM TBILISI, GEORGIA
Go for day Trips or Side Trips to nearby cities of Tbilisi –
FAMOUS FESTIVALS OF TBILISI – Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions
- Tbilisoba – First weekend of October.
- Cheese festival – July
- New Wine Festival – End of May
- Art Gene Festival – July
- Tbilisi Jazz Festival – March
INTERNATIONAL AND INTERNAL COMMUTING
Tbilisi is having INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT and major flights from all over the world commute to this place.
You can also catch internal flights to Georgian cities like Batumi (Black Sea), Kutaisi, etc from here.
Tbilisi has a confluence of both cultures – Western & Eastern due to its location and also Georgian people are very welcoming. Tbilisi has a wide range of budget-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities. Make your trip to Tbilisi a memorable one and I bet, you will make your plan again to this city as it is very magical and hypnotic. These are Highlights of Tbilisi Sightseeing Attractions but there are many more …… Read 20 Things to know about Georgia before planning your trip. Read many itineraries of Georgia in summers and Georgia in Winters.
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Till then KEEP TRAVELING……………… KEEP EXPLORING……………………………………………………
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Ever since I tried Georgian food in Moscow, I’ve wanted to visit Georgia. Unfortunately, they just cancelled the direct flights from here to Tbilisi, so more complicated to get to. Know very little about the country and the capital, but feeling more knowledgable about Tbilisi now and more determined to get there!
What a great introduction to the things to see and do in Tbilisi. We love to start with panoramic viewpoints so would definitely want to take the cable car up to the Narikala Fortress. The Bridge of Peace is an interesting constant to the historic buildings in the old town. A hot springs bath is a great idea after walking all day long! Good to know that taxis are cheap. Thanks for the list of day trips. Sounds like Tbilisi is a great spot to use as a base.
Tbilisi is lovely and a upcoming tourist destination in Eastern Europe.
such a pleasure to read your articles about Georgia and Azerbaijan 🙂 Tbilisi is definitely one of my favorite cities 🙂 greetings from Lisbon, PedroL
I always thought that Georgia is a small country and that there wont be much to see. But going by this post it sure packs a punch. Also loved the fact that most sights can be done on foot. Would especially love to check out the Orthodox Cathedral, freedom square and Georgian food!
Thanks Sreekar. Though Georgia is small country but it is worth visiting with lots of nature attractions.
Loved reading about yet another new destination here. Was not aware that there is so much to do in Tbilisi and its seems to be changing with emerging night life and urban atmosphere. Good to know that there are budget friendly accommodation options, the city can be covered on foot and taxis are cheap! Those definitely make Tbilisi a favourable place for backpackers. We are excited to explore more!
Thanks Navita!
Tbilisi and Georgia and general look like some extremely underrated places to visit. I love performances and theatre and would definitely love to see a show at that Rezo Gabriadze Theatre. Even just walking around Tbilisi and admiring the architecture (like the Bridge of Peace) looks like a fun way to see the city.
Thanks Alousie!
Tbilisi seems amazing. I live in Europe, Portugal, but i didn´t visited yet this place. It looks very authentic, nothing like the other European countries.
I don’t know much about Georgia, so I really appreciate this post and learning more about what to do in the city, its history and food. I so want to try Khachapuri!
This is a really great and informative piece about Tbilisi. We had an exchange student from there almost 20 years ago and she is still very much a big part of our lives. Though she now lives in DC, she is getting married in Tbilisi next month but we have to skip it because of how expensive it is to get there. Thanks for educating me on the things to do. 😉 Great content.
I have been reading so much on Georgia lately. The food seems to be yum. Does it have resemblace to Armenian and Turkish cuisines?
It has resemblance with Indian cuisines like Stuffed Kulcha and Rajma(kidney beans curry known as Lobiyo). Turkish cuisine is very different from Georgian cuisine
Now we know where lobia came from 🙂 another import….
Yes.. and the taste is also similar.. India has influence of various cultures from ancient times, which reflects in our traditions and food
Such Fab place to visit i must say and moreover, your pictures are way beyond beautiful. Tbilisi, is undoubtedly one of the great places to see. Thanks for sharing this post.
Ooh, the cable car I would definitely have to do. Those views are amazing, so colorful and I love the twilight shots! I’m in love with the Bridge of Peace. The architecture is so unique and I love the aqua color!
I couldn’t help admiring the beauty of that Bridge of Peace (now who is the designer?). It is very meaningful and the structure is very interesting. I bet walking during night time is the best experience at Tbilisi. Quite romantic.
The Bridge of Peace is such a unique architecture! I have not seen anything like that before. Taking the cable car to Narikala Fortress is a great idea. I love how stunning the night view is!
Tbilisi has some incredible architecture doesn’t it! It’s also great that they have a botanical garden too, they’re perfect for relaxing in away from the busy city aren’t they.
I am really hoping to get out to Tbiliai later this year and seeing the photos and reading this post has got me all excited. 🙂 Loving the look of that fortress as well, defo one to tick off whilst out there.
This is so high on my bucket list and I’d love to go before it gets too touristy. I’m sure it is already on the way there. Love that bridge. How cool is that? Did you see the lights before sunset. I also heard Georgian cuisine fantastic and I have ot admit I have never tried a Georgian dish.
Yes lights before sunset are beautiful
The evening view of Tbilisi is so gorgeous. There’re so many places to see in Tbilisi and that makes it worth its every visit. The aerial view of Narikala fortress is stunning. I really like that there’s no boring moment when one visits Tbilisi. Thanks for sharing this practical itinerary. It has exposed me to the Georgian world.
Thanks Lydia
Tbilisi seems like a perfect blend of east and west. Taking a cable car to the fortress would be quite a treat. The views from there must be magnificent.
Wow, I don’t know much about Georgia, but this looks incredible! And the food looks really good. Another place to add to my bucket list.
I’ve never explored Georgia or anywhere near there! And I love a cable car! And thank you for the suggestions of everything to see.
I love riding cable cars! I would definitely do that if i visit Tbilisi. walking along old town seems fun too and it looks very beautiful! I actually never heard of this place so thanks for sharing!
Such a cool post! I didn’t know much about Georgia, but it looks like a mini fairy tale and it’s so cool that it mixes European and Asian cultures! I loved the bridge and the food looks delicious! That soup is just so adorable in the pot and I like that it’s made out of beans. Definitely bucket list material.
So much to see in Tbilsi! Balcony of Europe – such a fitting title. Hot Sulphur waters is something I surely want to experience. I am sure it will take more than a week to experience all these right?
Yes if you are visiting nearby countrysides n towns then one week is required
A beautiful city. The Bridge looks so much like a work of Calatrava, but it is by someone from Italy. I really liked the dominant conical roofs on the buildings – they are unique. The old fortress has a strong similarity with the ones in Rajasthan.
I have visited Georgia some years back, but I did not spend too much time in Tbilisi! After reading this, I feel so sorry that we did not take some extra days to see it, as it seems like a great location. I would love to lose myself along the streets of the Old Town 🙂 that’s how you discover the best things! And I would absolutely visit the Abanotubami Sulphur Baths. I had those in Romania, as well and they are so refreshing and soothing! Great photos!
Would love to visit Tbilisi. The old town looks lovely to explore and I love cable cars! I’d definitely try a sulphur bath too.
Tbilsi has been a dream. I like pedestrian friendly places. One of my friends who was there recently told me how affordable it is. It would be interesting to see how west merges with east. It is aptly called Balcony of Europe. The pictures of fortress entice me to book a ticket right away.
Yes, you would find quite similarities of Asian culture in Tbilisi like many people live in joint family system, people till 4th generations are living together like our India…
What a fabulous place to visit, with such amazing history and architecture telling a story in modern day. I would love to go on the cable car – especially at dusk when the city lights come on. Beautiful. The design of the bridge of peace is amazing! Like a big wave of calm over the top. What a great place to visit!
Though not a well known tourist place, but Tbilisi is worth going with perfect blend of modern and traditional culture.
The Bridge of Peace looks so cool. I can see why it made the list of unique bridges. The cable car also sounds like fun. Thanks for writing such an inspiring post. I honestly never knew all this about Georgia.
Allison, Tbilisi is amazing place though it is lesser known
Must say would never have thought of visiting a place like Tbilisi without reading your post and getting an insight of this wonderful location Surely is the balcony of Europe with those sights from the cable car. Would live to visit the old town and this truly gives you s feel of this city. A walk in the evening at shardani street is a great way to enjoy the evening it seems. Thanks for sharing a great post. Amar Singh
Yes, I agree many people never thought of visiting Tbilisi but it is really worth going and spending some time. I nowadays, try to find out beautiful destinations which are non touristy type of.. Like finding a hidden gem and showcasing them to my readers….
I love all the mixture of old and new in this place. Georgia is one of those places people don’t often travel, so it was interesting to read about. I definitely want to visit someday. I love the bridge, it’s very pretty.
Thanks Paula!
I had no idea Georgia was so beautiful. My husband is from Georgia the state in the US, so we’ve had Georgia the country on our bucket list for as long as I can remember. I think we would love walking alongside the river and soaking up that skyline! We had no idea there was so much to do and see!
This post gave us a detailed introduction of this glorious city og Goergia! We never knew the city had so much to offer its visitors from architectural to night life! The first picture of Narikala firtress along with the city skyline looks so stunning! We would also love to visit Machakela and relish on some of the local cuisine…
What a stunning place. That bridge definitely is one of the most unusual bridges that I have seen. It looks picture perfect. I would be game for the Sulphur baths too. And with so much history here, I am afraid I might not be able to squeeze in the bath. 😉 Beautiful post, Yukti. Loved reading it
So much information about Tbilisi! I’m completely unfamiliar with this area of the world. Great tip on walking back down from the fortress so that you can see more of the town. I’d love to try the sulfur bath!
This post is full of pictures. Nice to see all of pictures. Love freedom square. Will try Georgian Cuisine when visit.
I’ve been reading many more articles on Georgia, and about Tbilisi, and would love to visit. The fortress looks so interesting, and I’d say a big yes to taking the funicular to see those views. I’ve never tried Georgian food, nor do I know what it is, so would be stopping off at a few places. Rustevelli Avenue sounds very interesting, I know I’d spend a lot of time there!
I absolutely loved Tbilisi and its vibe. You have actually listed the top sites that even I would recommend to a first timer visiting Tbilisi. Cable car up to Narikala Fortress is an absolute must and I love the street along Rezo Gabiadze Theatre. The Old Town is an absolute pleasure to walk through, the nightlife is amazing in that area and the city is so vibrant and lovely, with the old town feel as well as modern architecture such as the Bridge of Peace. I did, however, like exploring Georgia outside Tbilisi more than I liked exploring the capital city itself!
Yes, I too explored more nearby cities, but as we stayed in Tbilisi, all this we can cover in evenings or in early mornings.
This post makes me visit Tbilisi after reading this post. The place looks absolutely stunning. You have given a comprehensive info which will be very useful.
Tbilisi looks amazingly beautiful, and I love that it has the name of being the “Balcony of Europe” and has influences from both Europe and Asia. The cable car ride to the fortress sounds amazing, I so would love to try that. And how I would love to try Khachapuri at the Machakela restaurant. I have seen so many photos of it and am so curious about how it would taste like. I hope one day I can get myself to Georgia!
It just tastes like Stuffed Kulcha or Stuffed Naan from Indian cuisine – if you have tried that one
Wow! Tbilisi looks stunning! With its historical forts, Soviet styled houses, cathedrals, botanical gardens and amazing views, the city definitely looks like a hidden gem. I love the unique architecture of the Bridge of Peace. Sulphur bath sounds interesting. I would love to try that. The Georgian cuisine looks yummy. Thanks for sharing helpful tips for the first timers.
Thanks Shaily! You would really fall in love with this small city but full of joy
Wow this is the first I’m learning about Tbilisi but it looks and sounds AMAZING! The views are gorgeous and the various attractions look like its more than enough to keep you occupied for the duration of your stay. My favorite is the gorgeous Cathedral – it’s soooo large and amazing to look at both during the day and night!
Yes Tbilisi is amazing with full of warmth and hospitable people.