Discover the most fascinating spots in Georgia’s capital. Insider tips, top attractions, and how to get around
Intro: A City That Stays With You
Some cities leave you with pictures. Tbilisi leaves you with stories.
It’s the kind of place where cobbled streets echo with laughter, where balconies lean over alleyways as if listening in, and where strangers pour you wine just because you’re there. Georgia’s capital is not polished or picture-perfect — and that’s exactly why it pulls you in.
In 2025, Tbilisi remains one of the most authentic and welcoming destinations in Europe and the Caucasus. If you’re heading there soon, this guide will walk you through everything you need — from the iconic spots to local secrets, how to move around, and where to escape for a day trip.
1. Getting to Know Tbilisi: Where It All Begins
Start in the Old Town. That’s where Tbilisi’s heart beats loudest. Think crooked streets, colorful balconies, hidden courtyards, and a smell of fresh bread or sulfur rising from the famous bathhouses.
Wander down Shardeni Street, climb up to Narikala Fortress (your calves might protest, but your eyes will thank you), then descend into the Abanotubani district for a glimpse of the iconic domed sulfur baths.
Where to stay? Check out Sololaki, Avlabari, or Vera — charming neighborhoods with traditional houses and epic views.
Where to eat? Follow the locals to spots like Machakhela, Sakhli #11, or Racha. And don’t be afraid to step into tiny courtyard restaurants — they often hide the best khinkali and homemade wine.
2. Must-See Places in Tbilisi
Here are the 7 spots you simply can’t miss — not just for photos, but for the feels:
- Narikala Fortress – Take the cable car or hike up. The view over Tbilisi is unforgettable, especially at sunset.
- Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani) – A signature experience. The mineral-rich hot water soothes the soul (and the feet).
- Rustaveli Avenue – The city’s grand boulevard, lined with museums, theatres, and old-school charm.
- Bridge of Peace – A modern glass structure that glows at night and connects the old with the new.
- Mtatsminda Park – Ride the funicular up for an amusement park, panoramic views, and romantic walks.
- Sololaki – Lose yourself in 19th-century courtyards and staircases. It’s like walking through a film set.
- Fabrika – A repurposed Soviet sewing factory turned hipster hub with cafes, art, bars, and the coolest people in town.
3. Insider Tips: Where Locals Actually Hang Out
If you want to experience Tbilisi beyond the postcards, ditch the maps. Let your instincts guide you.
Peek into courtyards — you’ll find kids playing, grandmas hanging laundry, or maybe a spontaneous guitar session.
Visit the Dezertirebi Bazaar (aka “Desertirka”) to experience real Georgian market culture. Spices, cheeses, wine, dried fruit — it’s loud, chaotic, and wonderful.
In the evening, skip the tourist-packed restaurants and hit up cozy wine bars like g.Vino, 8000 Vintages, or DADI. They serve rare regional wines and, more importantly, real conversations.
4. Getting Around Tbilisi
Tbilisi is a walkable city, especially in the center. But when you need to go further:
- Metro – Clean, fast, cheap. Two lines. It’s impossible to get lost.
- Marshrutkas and buses – Affordable and chaotic. Payment is contactless — just tap your bank card.
- Taxis & Bolt – Bolt works great here, with fair prices and reliable service. Uber isn’t available.
- Getmancar carsharing – A solid option for flexible city travel. Park almost anywhere, grab a car in minutes, all through the app.
- Scooters – Available through mobile apps, perfect for dodging traffic.
And if you want full freedom — especially for trips outside the city — consider car rental in Tbilisi. It gives you total control over your route and timing.
5. Day Trips Worth Taking
If you have even one free day — get out of the city. Georgia’s countryside is pure magic.
- Mtskheta – The ancient capital of Georgia. Quiet, spiritual, and just 30 minutes from Tbilisi.
- Jvari Monastery – A 6th-century gem on a hill with sweeping views over the meeting point of two rivers.
- Ananuri Fortress – A lakeside castle perfect for golden hour photos and calm walks.
- Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) – The ultimate road trip: winding mountain roads, endless views, and the Gergeti Trinity Church set against Mt. Kazbek. A must if you’re renting a car.
You can get to most of these by marshrutka (shared minivan), group tour, or your own wheels.
6. Let Tbilisi Do Its Thing
Tbilisi isn’t a checklist city. It’s a city you feel.
It’s the clink of wine glasses in a stranger’s courtyard. It’s the slow walk up a steep street at dusk. It’s that random jazz band you stumble upon near the baths. It’s the way this place gets under your skin without asking permission.
So wear comfortable shoes. Keep your camera handy, but don’t rely on it too much. Let yourself get lost. Talk to people. Say yes to the wine.
And if you want to explore Georgia at your own pace — from wineries in Kakheti to mountain passes in Kazbegi — start your adventure with a car rental in Tbilisi. It might just be the best decision of your trip.
