Getting started: About Tbilisi
Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital and the country’s largest city, is an important historical and cultural hub in the Caucasus region. Set along the Kura River in the Tbilisi Basin of eastern Georgia, the city was founded in the fifth century. As a melting pot of cultures, faiths and civilizations, Tbilisi is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere as much as its history and beautiful landscapes. To visit this fascinating Caucasian metropolis, just check out our Tbilisi flight page.
Georgian currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
Georgia time zone: GMT+4
Georgia socket type: C/F
Georgia emergency hotline: 112
Turkish Embassy in Tbilisi: +995 32 225 20 72
Best times to visit Tbilisi
Although Tbilisi is a year-round destination, spring and summer in the city are particularly lovely — parks and gardens bloom with color, while visitors and residents indulge in leisurely walks along the Kura River. Autumn is less popular among tourists and, we should note, the winter months can be quite cold.
Places to visit in Tbilisi
Sameba Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba)
Sameba Cathedral (Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi), one of Georgia’s largest and most impressive ecclesiastical buildings, is a must-see for visitors to Tbilisi. Serving as the focal point of Tbilisi’s skyline, the imposing modern structure is visible from almost everywhere in the city. Near the cathedral are expansive gardens, picturesque walking paths, and nice spots with views of Tbilisi.
Old Tbilisi
Old Tbilisi certainly ranks high in the list of attractions to see in Tbilisi. A walk through the narrow alleys and lanes of the old city, lined with antique structures, medieval churches and hidden courtyards, offers a perspective on the city’s historical and cultural texture.
Narikala Fortress
Dating from the 4th century, the Narikala Fortress is a Tbilisi landmark and one of the city’s most renowned tourist attractions. Set on a steep hill overlooking the river and the Botanical Garden, the citadel also offers spectacular views of the city. Visitors can walk up to the fortress or take a funicular. Depending on the season, we suggest viewing the sunset from the Narikala Fortress.
Bridge of Peace
Another city landmark, the gorgeous glass and steel Bridge of Peace stands out among the modern sites to visit in Tbilisi, connecting the past and the future. In autumn, especially, the bridge guarantees a memorable experience, complete with a tranquil view of golden leaves reflected in the river.
Mtatsminda Park
Mtatsminda Park is another notable place to visit in Tbilisi. Overlooking the city, the park is beautiful throughout the year — particularly in December, when it is festooned with holiday lights and transformed into a winter fairy tale.
Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli, one of Tbilisi’s main boulevards, is lined with historic buildings as well as shops; many cultural events also take place in venues located along Rustaveli. The prominent Georgian National Museum is also on Rustaveli Avenue.
Kura River
Bisecting the city, the Kura River enhances Tbilisi’s natural attractiveness. Walking along the river, especially in the morning, offers breathtaking views of floating mists and the city’s reflected silhouette.
Staying in Tbilisi
There’s a wide range of accommodations in Tbilisi to suit almost every budget level, including hotels, hostels and rental homes; to simplify your planning, head to the Turkish Airlines Holidays page, where you can address all your vacation needs in one package. The Old Tbilisi neighborhood is terrific for visitors seeking a historical setting amid traditional Georgian homes — and many notable tourist attractions, including Narikala Fortress, Sulphur Baths and the Bridge of Peace, are within walking distance. Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square are ideal for visitors who prefer to stay in the city center near shopping and cultural activities.
Dining in Tbilisi
We’ve listed some wonderful dishes from the delicious Georgian cuisine below.
- Definitely sample puri, a fragrant Georgian bread found almost everywhere in the city.
- Tbilisi is a fantastic place to eat khachapuri, Georgia’s famous cheese bread.
- Breakfast sometimes comes with lobiani (bean bread), a Georgian bread filled with a mixture of spiced beans and ham.
- Khinkali, also known as Georgian dumplings, come with a variety of fillings, including spiced minced meat, vegetables or cheese.
- Chakapuli, a pork stew with fresh herbs, is another distinctive Georgian dish.
Transportation in Tbilisi
Tbilisi city transportation
Bolt is probably the ride-share app most frequently used in Tbilisi. The city also features two metro lines, cable cars and numerous buses. Car rental services are available through Turkish Airlines’ partners.
Transportation from Tbilisi International Airport to the city center
Bus number 337 operates between the airport and the Tbilisi city center as does the Bolt ride-share service. The bus ride takes around 45 minutes; via private vehicle, the drive to the city center from the airport is about 30 minutes.
