Top 10 Things to Do in Tbilisi
Sunny and hospitable Tbilisi is always happy to share its warmth with visiting tourists. If you’re wondering what Tbilisi is famous for or what to do in the capital of Georgia to fully experience its unique flavor, use our list of Top 10 Things to Do in Tbilisi below as a launching point!
1. Get Lost in the Labyrinth of Tbilisi Old Town
Of all the districts in Tbilisi, Old Town best exudes the city’s dreamy historical atmosphere. There are seemingly endless things to do in Tbilisi Old Town, from touring medieval fortresses, unique churches and century-old homes to wandering narrow winding streets and relaxing at wine bars and cozy cafes. Simply put, Old Town is charming, Instagram friendly and the best that Tbilisi has to offer.
2. Soak in the Sulfur Baths
Tbilisi Sulphur Baths are known for their pools of hot, sulfuric water which will relax your muscles and rejuvenate your skin. These bathhouses have been integral to Tbilisi for centuries, as seen by a famous legend connected to their mysterious waters: In the 5th century AD, King Vakhtang Gorgasali purportedly went hunting in a dense forest. While hunting, the king's falcon is said to have caught a pheasant just before both birds fell into a nearby hot spring and died. The hot springs amazed King Gorgasali so much that he decided to build a city on the site. Knowing the central role which these natural springs have played ever since the city’s founding will deepen your appreciation of your Tbilisi Sulfur Baths experience.
3. Ride a Cable Car to Narikala Fortress
Looking to enjoy great views of Tbilisi? Be sure to ride the Narikala cable cars from Rike Park up to Narikala Fortress for a splendid bird’s-eye view of the city. Once you have reached the top, don’t forget to explore the landmark Narikala Fortress too! While the cable cars make for a fun daytime activity, they are also one of the more popular things to do in Tbilisi at night due to the twinkling panoramic landscape which will unfold below you.
4. Hunt for Vintage Items at Dry Bridge Flea Market
Anyone looking for weird or unusual things to do in Georgia will not want to miss Dry Bridge Flea Market. This hodgepodge bazaar is the place to purchase rare or antique souvenirs, but even visitors without extra space in their luggage will appreciate the market’s quirky atmosphere. Expect to stumble upon many bizarre items including distinctly Georgian goods, Soviet memorabilia and even rare international finds.
5. Experience the Funicular and Fine Dining
Anyone looking for romantic things to do in Tbilisi will want to ride Tbilisi Funicular at night, for nowhere does Georgia’s capital seem more charming than from the Funicular’s panoramic vantage point. Purchase your ticket on site and enjoy the scenic ride up Mount Mtatsminda. Once you have reached the top you can order a scrumptious Georgian dinner at Funicular Restaurant Complex whose panoramic views, comfy sofas and warm environment cannot be beat.
6. Explore the Exotic at National Botanical Garden
Charming gardens resplendent with colorful flowers, rare plants and refreshing waterfalls await you at National Botanical Garden of Georgia (formerly Tbilisi Botanical Garden). This haven of nature is situated in the heart of the city and provides just the space you need to unwind from the city clamor. If wandering among the foliage sounds a little too dull for your liking, Tbilisi’s Botanical Garden also offers a zip line and climbing wall.
7. Indulge in a Wine Tasting
Renowned for its fine wines, Georgia attracts many wine connoisseurs. Tbilisi boasts of many wine bars whose owners welcome guests from around the world and are eager to display the most recent discoveries they have sourced. How do traditional qvevri vessels affect the taste of wine? What is amber wine? Local sommeliers in Tbilisi are ready to answer your questions and introduce you to the world of Georgian wine.
8. Watch a Puppet Performance at Rezo Gabriadze Theater
An unusual clock tower in Tbilisi Old Town never fails to capture visitors’ attention. The tower marks the site of the small Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater where a presentation called "The Circle of Life" is performed daily at noon and 7 pm. Despite its small size, Gabriadze Theater is a significant cultural institution which has garnered the attention of international audiences through its performances replete with depth and purpose. Both the building and the performances are sure to be a highlight of your city tour. Rezo Gabriadze Theater is an especially great place to visit in Tbilisi during winter, when select outdoor activities may be unfeasible.
9. Visualize History at Chronicle of Georgia
Chronicle of Georgia, an epic monument which depicts notable figures from Christian and Georgian history, is counted among the top 10 things to do in Tbilisi because of the amazing views and historical undertones of the site. From the monument you will be able to view the city from a very different angle, observing distinctive Soviet architecture on one side and Tbilisi Sea on the other. Chronicle of Georgia does not take long to tour but is well worth visiting. It is particularly stunning at sunset.
10. Hike from Turtle Lake to Mtatsminda Park
Tbilisi has a natural landscape to rival its history and culture. If you are looking for a short escape from city life, we suggest gathering your friends or family for a hike from Turtle Lake to Mtatsminda Park. The marked trail starts at the main entrance to Turtle Lake and meanders through a beautiful forest until it reaches Mtatsminda Park. The path covers about 7 kilometers in total and usually takes 2-3 hours to complete. You will also stumble upon picnic areas and some interconnecting trails that offer further opportunities for adventure.
Bonus
Enjoy delicious, freshly baked Georgian bread at any time of day! Called shoti or puri, this crispy national bread has a semilunar shape and is baked in a tandoor oven before being placed on a stand to cool. Shoti bread is sold all across the city and is an essential experience on any Tbilisi tour.