Getting started: About Tbilisi
Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital and the countryโs 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 โ 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 cityโs historical and cultural texture.
Narikala Fortress
Dating from the 4th century, the Narikala Fortress is a Tbilisi landmark and one of the cityโs 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 โ 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 Tbilisiโs 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
Thereโs 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 โ 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
Weโve 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 Airlinesโ 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.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tbilisi?
The best time to visit Tbilisi depends on the experience you seek. Weather, festivals, crowd levels, and prices vary throughout the year. May is generally considered one of the best months to visit the city. With mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, it is an ideal time to explore Tbilisi on foot and visit landmarks such as Narikala Fortress. If you are interested in festivals and outdoor events, June is another excellent option. As summer approaches, the city becomes livelier, though temperatures can rise noticeably by July. September and October are also among the most rewarding times to visit Tbilisi. September brings cooler weather after the summer heat, while October offers beautiful autumn colors that lend a special charm to the cityโs streets, parks, and historic neighborhoods.
What are the must-see attractions in Tbilisi?
No visit to Tbilisi is complete without seeing Narikala Fortress, one of the cityโs most iconic historic landmarks. Overlooking the Mtkvari River and the surrounding hills, the fortress offers spectacular panoramic views and is among the best places to watch the sunset over the city. Another landmark not to be missed is Sameba Cathedral, also known as the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi. One of the cityโs most striking and recognizable symbols, Sameba dominates the skyline with its distinctive golden dome, which rises to 101 meters.
For a quieter escape, head to Mziuri Park. This peaceful urban oasis offers walking paths, an educational center, sports facilities, and recreational areas for children, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Another must-see attraction is the Bridge of Peace, a glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge with a graceful arch. Stretching 156 meters across the river, it has become one of Tbilisiโs modern landmarks, and walking across it is considered an essential experience in the city.
Other popular activities include unwinding in Tbilisiโs famous sulfur baths, strolling along Aghmashenebeli Avenue, one of the cityโs most elegant and vibrant streets, and exploring the National Gallery of Tbilisiโs rich art collections.
What is Tbilisi known for? What should you eat in Tbilisi?
Georgian cuisine reflects the countryโs diverse climate, varied landscapes, and regional traditions, blending influences from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. If you would like to try a traditional Georgian dish in Tbilisi, be sure to sample khinkali, Georgiaโs famous dumplings. Filled with flavorful broth and meat, khinkali is available at many restaurants throughout the city center. Another of the countryโs best-known specialties is khachapuri, a baked pastry filled with local cheeses. Other local favorites include chakapuli, a stew typically made with veal or lamb; pkhali, a popular appetizer made with spinach, beets, beans, or other seasonal vegetables; and eggplant rolls with walnuts, one of the most beloved dishes in Georgian cuisine.
How do you get from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to the city center?
You can travel from Tbilisi Airport (TBS) to the city center by bus or taxi. The municipal bus stop is directly outside the arrivals hall and is served by Route 337 (AirportโTbilisi City CenterโAirport). The trip to the city center takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The bus stops at various points along the route, including Kostava Street and Queen Tamar Avenue. It is worth asking the driver which stop is closest to your accommodation. Payment can be made with a credit or debit card, or you can purchase a MetroMoney card at the Bank of Georgia branch inside the airport terminal.
If you prefer to take a taxi, you can find one at the taxi stand just outside the terminal, next to the arrivals area. The taxi service operates 24 hours a day, and the trip to central Tbilisi typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares are set by the taximeter.
What is the best way to get around Tbilisi?
Tbilisi has an efficient and affordable public transportation system that makes getting around the city easy. The network includes two metro lines, an extensive system of city buses and minibuses, four cable car routes, and a funicular railway. As a result, most tourist attractions, hotels, and other destinations are easily accessible by public transportation. The metro, buses, and minibuses generally begin operating between 06:00 and 07:00 and run until midnight. Operating hours for the cable cars and funicular vary, so it is worth checking the schedules in advance. Student discounts on public transportation are available only to students enrolled at universities in Georgia. There are three main ways to pay for public transportation in Tbilisi: credit or debit cards, the MetroMoney card available at the airport, and the Travel Card. You may also encounter ticket inspectors at bus stops and on public transportation. If asked to verify your fare, simply tap the same card you used to pay on the inspectorโs handheld device.
Where should I stay in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi is not an especially large city, so you can comfortably choose accommodations in a variety of neighborhoods. Each area, however, has its own distinct character. If you are visiting Tbilisi for the first time, Old Town (Kala) is an excellent choice. Staying in Old Town puts you in the heart of the city, within walking distance of many of Tbilisiโs main attractions and historic landmarks. If you are traveling with children, Vera is an excellent option. Known for its green spaces, parks, and playgrounds, it is one of the cityโs quieter, more family-friendly neighborhoods. Sololaki is another popular area, celebrated for its narrow streets, elegant houses with ornate balconies, charming courtyards, and stylish cafรฉs. Its distinctive atmosphere makes it one of the most enjoyable parts of the city to explore.
How many days should you spend in Tbilisi?
Two to three days is generally the ideal amount of time to spend in Tbilisi. This gives you enough time to explore the cityโs major historical and cultural attractions and to discover the flavors of Georgian cuisine. You might spend one day exploring Old Town and Narikala Fortress, then dedicate another to strolling along Rustaveli Avenue and visiting some of the cityโs most popular districts and landmarks.
