21 Best Places to Visit in Tbilisi in 2025 (Local Favorites & Hidden Spots)

Tbilisi stands as one of the most fascinating cities you can visit, despite being destroyed and rebuilt 26 times. The Georgian capital got its name from its healing sulfuric hot springs – “Tbilisi” means “warm place.” King Vakhtang I of Iberia founded this remarkable city in the 5th century.

Byzantine, Arab, Turkish, Mongol, Iranian, and Russian influences have left their mark on Tbilisi over the centuries. This mixture of cultures shows clearly in the city today. Soviet architecture blends with neoclassical buildings and Byzantine designs to create a unique cityscape. The Old Town draws visitors with its winding streets and colorful facades.

The city’s attractions range from the ancient Narikala Fortress built in the 4th century to the modern Bridge of Peace that lights up the night sky. Travelers can enjoy many experiences here. The traditional sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district, local dishes like khinkali and khachapuri, and the city’s street art scene are just a few highlights. This piece will guide you through the best spots this captivating city has to share.

Narikala Fortress

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Narikala Fortress, one of Tbilisi’s most iconic landmarks, sits on a hill with a commanding view of the Mtkvari River. This ancient citadel’s weathered walls tell the story of Georgia’s resilient past.

Narikala Fortress History

The Persians built this citadel in the 4th century, and it has seen many changes over time. The Arabs made the fortification bigger in the 8th century, and King David the Builder improved its defenses between 1089-1125. The Mongols gave it a new name “Narin Qala,” which means “Little Fortress”. The walls you see today are from the 16th and 17th centuries, though an earthquake in 1827 damaged much of the structure.

Best Time to Visit Narikala

The best times to explore the fortress are early morning and late afternoon. Midday gets crowded and hot, especially during summer months. The sunset visits are magical as you can watch the city lights sparkle below. You can visit the fortress any time of the year, and there’s no entry fee.

Narikala Photography Tips

Here’s how to get the best fortress photos:

• Get panoramic city shots from the upper walls
• Shoot during sunset for dramatic lighting
• Visit Tabor Monastery of the Transfiguration for unique fortress angles
• Use the new pathway’s viewing platforms for clear shots

The fortress has two walled sections between the sulfur baths and botanical gardens. You can reach Narikala by cable car from Rike Park or walk up from Meidan. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes because you’ll find many stairs and uneven surfaces.

Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

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Tbilisi’s Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi) sits beneath Narikala Fortress’s watchful gaze and serves as a living museum where centuries of cultural influences meet. This charming district dates back to the 5th century and stands as one of Tbilisi’s most enchanting attractions.

Old Town Architecture

Persian, Byzantine, and European influences blend beautifully in Old Town’s architectural landscape. The district’s buildings showcase distinctive elements:

• Ornate wooden balconies with intricate carvings
• Art Nouveau facades with classical motifs
• Horizontal and vertical tower-like dwellings
• Stained glass architectural elements

Old Town Walking Routes

Old Town’s cobblestone streets tell stories at every turn. Visitors can start their journey from Europe Square and explore the historic Metekhi Cathedral before heading toward the vibrant Erekle II Street. The path weaves through Sololaki, which became the first planned residential district outside the old city walls and features Parisian-inspired gridded blocks.

Old Town Hidden Courtyards

The sort of thing I love about Old Town lies in its “Italian courtyards,” which surprisingly have no connection to Italy. These spaces got their nickname because they encourage vibrant community life. Wealthy merchants built these courtyards in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adding unique architectural elements that turned them into community gathering spots. These courtyards still serve as social hubs where neighbors share meals, stories, and daily life, though modern times have somewhat reduced this communal lifestyle.

Abanotubani Sulfur Baths

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The ancient district of Abanotubani sits on the eastern bank of the Mtkvari River and remains one of Tbilisi’s most unique attractions. These sulfur baths are 5th century old and have been a vital part of the city’s growth.

Best Sulfur Bath Houses

The district has several remarkable bathhouses that each give you a different experience:

• Chreli Abano: A bathhouse with Persian-style exterior and prices from 100-600 GEL
• Gulo’s Bath: Traditional rooms cost between 100-250 GEL
• Bathhouse No.5: This 1925 old establishment gives you an authentic public bathing experience from 10 GEL

Sulfur Bath Etiquette

You’ll get complete privacy in private rooms with locks where you can choose to wear swimwear or bathe nude. Local customs suggest a good shower before you enter the bath pools. The water temperature stays between 38-40°C, so you need regular hydration breaks.

Sulfur Bath Treatments

The kisi scrub stands out as the signature treatment that uses a textured mitt to exfoliate your skin. These sulfur-rich waters contain methane gas and are great for your health. The waters help treat skin conditions, boost blood circulation, and strengthen the immune system. A traditional kisi treatment ranges from 10-20 GEL, and some places serve complimentary tea afterward.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

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The Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) dominates Tbilisi’s skyline. This architectural masterpiece took nine years to build (1995-2004) and ranks as the world’s third-tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral.

Cathedral Architecture

The cathedral combines traditional Georgian church architecture with Byzantine elements. Built on Elia Hill, it soars 87.1 meters to its cross. The cathedral’s interior covers 3,000 square meters and features a cruciform plan with a dome that eight columns support. The complex has nine chapels, five of them underground, a monastery, theological academy, and the Patriarch’s residence.

Cathedral Visiting Hours

Visitors can explore the cathedral between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily. Orthodox liturgy services take place at 4:00 PM on Saturdays and 9:00 AM on Sundays. Entry is free throughout the year, making it available to everyone. Remember that modest dress is required.

Cathedral Photography Tips

Here’s how you can capture the cathedral’s beauty:

• The best light conditions appear during sunset
• The western facade offers excellent exterior shots
• Interior photography is not allowed
• The interlacing stone squares in the cathedral square provide unique viewpoints

The cathedral’s golden dome creates a striking silhouette against Tbilisi’s skyline and you can see it from many spots across the city. The structure’s foundation holds sacred elements – rocks from Mount Sion and soil from Jerusalem, which symbolize its deep spiritual significance.

Bridge of Peace

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The bow-shaped Bridge of Peace spans the Mtkvari River and stands as one of Tbilisi’s most photographed landmarks. This contemporary masterpiece creates a stunning connection between Rike Park and the Old Town. Visitors can experience a remarkable blend of modern architecture and innovative design.

Bridge Design History

Italian architect Michele De Lucchi designed this remarkable structure that opened on May 6, 2010. The bridge extends 156 meters across the river with a distinctive steel and glass canopy resembling a marine animal. The structure’s complex engineering required manufacturing in Italy before transportation to Tbilisi in 200 trucks. A reticular steel and glass structure floats above the walkway with support from four fork-like footings at each end.

Best Time for Photos

The bridge attracts fewer visitors during early morning hours, making sunrise the perfect time for photography. Here’s how to capture the best shots:

• Take front-facing views from Baratashvili Bridge
• Arrive before 11 AM to avoid crowds
• Include Narikala Fortress as your background
• Get complete bridge coverage with wide-angle lenses

Night Light Show Times

The bridge lights up 90 minutes before sunset and stays illuminated until 90 minutes after sunrise. Philippe Martinaud’s lighting design features 1,208 LED fixtures on the roof. The bridge displays four different lighting programs each hour. The handrail glass panels contain 240 motion sensors that trigger LED arrays as people walk past. A unique message in Morse code appears through the lighting system, showing periodic table elements found in the human body.

Dry Bridge Market

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The Dry Bridge Market stands as one of Tbilisi’s most vibrant cultural hubs, pulsing with history and local charm. This daily open-air bazaar, 30 years old, started when locals sold personal possessions after communism’s collapse. Now it serves as a rich source of antiques and artistry.

Market Shopping Guide

Vendors welcome visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with weekends drawing the biggest crowds. The market layout features four distinct sections: the flea market, art and crafts market, antiques market, and book market. Shoppers should plan to arrive after 11 AM. Vendors need time to arrange their displays perfectly.

Best Items to Buy

The market brims with fascinating collectibles:

• Soviet Memorabilia: Military medals, ID books, and vintage cameras
• Artistic Pieces: Original paintings, Pirosmani replicas, and handcrafted items
• Traditional Crafts: Felt toys, wool scarves, and Georgian drinking horns
• Antique Treasures: Silver jewelry, porcelain pieces, and vintage household items

Bargaining Tips

The market’s rich offerings come with unmatched opportunities to become skilled at negotiation. Vendors take cash only, so bring smaller bills. Smart shoppers start with a price nowhere near their maximum budget. Respect matters – don’t touch items unless you plan to buy them. Tourist prices run higher than local rates, but friendly negotiation often results in fair deals.

Rustaveli Avenue

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Rustaveli Avenue runs from Liberty Square to Rustaveli metro station and serves as Tbilisi’s cultural heart. Named after medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, this bustling street has become the city’s center for arts, shopping, and dining.

Rustaveli Architecture

The avenue features impressive buildings dating back to the 1860s that showcase Georgia’s architectural development. A historic two-story building houses the Georgian National Museum and captures the grandeur of that era. The Rustaveli Theater, which began as the Artists’ Society building, stands among other landmarks like the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater, highlighting the street’s rich cultural heritage. The Parliament of Georgia and Supreme Court buildings add to the avenue’s prestigious atmosphere.

Rustaveli Shopping

Shoppers can find everything from local boutiques to modern retail centers on this avenue. The Tbilisi Galleria near Liberty Square draws many visitors as a popular shopping hub. You’ll find clothing stores, gift shops, and souvenir boutiques in the Merani Mall. Local artists showcase their paintings, jewelry, and traditional crafts near Rustaveli Metro.

Rustaveli Cafes

The avenue’s cafes each bring something special to the table:

• Prospero’s Books: This historic cafe inside an English-language bookshop features a relaxed courtyard
• Kvarts Coffee: The baristas create customized art on takeaway cups
• Erti Kava: Locals love this spot for its lively atmosphere and great drinks
• Coffee House: You’ll find Illy coffee and fresh pastries with chocolate here

Fabrika

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A former Soviet sewing factory sits in Tbilisi’s creative district and has become one of the city’s most innovative attractions. Fabrika, a multi-functional urban space, stands as proof of Tbilisi’s artistic rebirth.

Fabrika History

The building started as a Soviet-era sewing factory but remained abandoned for decades. A partnership between Multiverse Architecture (MUA) and Adjara Group Hospitality worked to rejuvenate this industrial space. The architects kept the building’s authentic spirit with bare walls, untouched ceilings, and original floors where possible. Old factory appliances found new purpose as design elements.

Fabrika Art Spaces

The complex houses 22 carefully chosen residents that include artist studios, concept stores, and educational institutions. A striking stone mural above the main entrance shows musicians, athletes, and workers in vintage communist style. The large central courtyard has become a lively meeting place with creative education centers and a co-working space.

Fabrika Dining Options

Fabrika’s culinary scene features several unique restaurants:

• Shio Ramen: Authentic Japanese cuisine with a local twist
• Moulin: Fusion of Georgian and European dishes
• Tone: Natural wine bar featuring traditional comfort food
• Pipes: Specializing in handcrafted gourmet burgers

This unique space welcomes up to 400 guests and offers shared dormitories, standard private rooms, and apartment-style suites. Fabrika’s raw industrial charm blends perfectly with modern elements, making it a must-visit spot in Tbilisi’s cultural scene.

Mtatsminda Park

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Mtatsminda Park sits at Tbilisi’s highest point and stands as one of the city’s most exciting attractions. The park towers 770 meters above sea level and covers over 100 hectares. Visitors can enjoy both thrilling rides and stunning views of the city.

Park Attractions

The park has three distinct zones – extreme, children’s, and family areas. Thrill-seekers will love the adrenaline-pumping roller coaster in the extreme zone. A Giant Wheel takes 10-12 minutes to complete one rotation. The family zone has:

• Video games and karting tracks
• Water slides and carousels
• Ghost Castle – a three-story medieval structure with horror scenes
• Celebration center and wedding hall

Park Views

The park’s elevated location lets visitors enjoy panoramic views that stretch across Tbilisi to the distant Caucasus Mountains. The 65-meter-high Giant Wheel provides the most breathtaking viewpoint. The sunset creates a spectacular show as city lights sparkle below.

Getting to Mtatsminda

Visitors can reach the park several ways. The historic funicular runs daily from 9:45 AM to 11:30 PM. Bus #124 from Rustaveli Metro Station and #90 from Orbeliani Square also serve the park. The trip from central Tbilisi takes about 15-20 minutes. Free entry makes this park a great destination for families and adventure seekers.

Tbilisi Botanical Garden

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The National Botanical Garden sits behind the historic walls of Narikala Fortress and it’s one of the most peaceful spots you can visit in Tbilisi. This green sanctuary covers 161 hectares and has more than 4,500 taxonomic groups of plants.

Garden Highlights

The garden’s most beautiful features are:

• A Japanese garden with its distinctive flora
• A beautiful waterfall beneath Queen Tamer bridge
• A collection of rare conifers
• Beautiful rose gardens
• A rich lilac collection

Garden Walking Trails

You’ll find a 3.1-mile loop trail that climbs 593.7 feet. Visitors can use two entrance gates – the upper gate near Mother Georgia statue and the lower gate next to the Sulfur Baths. The paths wind through flower gardens to a waterfall. More challenging uphill trails lead to the higher sections.

Best Season to Visit

The garden looks its best during spring and early fall. Life returns to the garden right after winter ends with lilacs and colorful flowers in full bloom. The weather stays nice at 15°C to 20°C. Many photographers come here to capture these seasonal changes. At just 4 GEL, the entrance fee makes this natural retreat available to anyone who just needs a break from city life.

Gabriadze Theater

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The Gabriadze Theater sits in Tbilisi’s historic quarter, captivating visitors with its unique blend of artistry and storytelling. This cultural gem, 42 years old, has earned worldwide recognition for its sophisticated puppet performances.

Theater History

Rezo Gabriadze opened the theater after writing 35 screenplays to break free from Soviet restrictions. The venue holds just 80 seats but stands as one of the world’s leading cultural institutions. Gabriadze designed the building himself and added his wit by changing the street number “13” to “12+1”.

Show Schedule

The current repertoire features five masterful productions:

• “The Autumn of My Spring”
• “Stalingrad”
• “Ramona”
• “Diamond of Marshal de Fant’e”
• “Alfred and Violetta”

The theater’s clock tower hosts a special 15-minute “Circle of Life” puppet show twice daily at 12:00 noon and 7:00 PM. Each hour brings magic as a golden-winged angel appears to strike the bell, delighting spectators below.

Puppet Making Workshop

Expert puppeteers lead 90-minute workshops where participants learn puppet-building techniques. These hands-on sessions teach various methods of creative expression and character design. Students create their own puppets and without doubt develop a deeper appreciation for this intricate art form.

Wine Factory #1

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Wine Factory #1, nestled in a 19th-century architectural masterpiece, ranks among Tbilisi’s most enchanting destinations. Alexander Ozerov designed this cultural heritage monument between 1894-1896. The historic winery now serves as a dynamic multi-purpose venue.

Factory History

The building showcases eclectic architecture with two three-nave basilicas that reflect traditional Georgian church construction. This cultural heritage site retains much of its original character through meticulous restoration work. The factory started its new chapter in 2013 and welcomed visitors in 2017 after complete renovation.

Wine Tasting Options

The remarkable enoteca, a two-floor underground wine vault, stands as Wine Factory #1’s crown jewel. This extraordinary collection features:

• 40,000 wine bottles with over two centuries of aging
• Rare wines from Napoleon Bonaparte’s private collection
• Historic bottles from Josef Stalin’s personal reserve
• Traditional Georgian wine varieties

Restaurant Recommendations

The complex now houses several restaurants that honor its wine heritage. Veriko pairs authentic Georgian dishes with a rich wine selection. PiNzeria brings Italian flavors to create a rich culinary experience. Saint-Tropez Restaurant adds French cuisine to the mix and welcomes guests from noon until 1:00 AM. The venue has grown into a creative space that features open-air cinema events, flea markets, and entertainment options.

Dezerter Bazaar

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The sprawling Dezerter Bazaar stands next to the central train station as one of Tbilisi’s largest and oldest farmer’s markets. This bustling marketplace spans over 2,000 square meters. The market got its name back in the 1920s when soldiers who had deserted would trade their belongings here.

Market Sections

Five distinct areas make up the bazaar complex. A main building built in 2012 houses wholesalers on its upper floor. The historic Dinamo Market sits in an old brick building and has butcher sections and spice halls. Vendors fill the outdoor area with seasonal produce displayed in roofed stands.

Local Specialties

The market showcases Georgia’s authentic culinary treasures:

• Traditional Cheeses: Genuine Guda aged in sheepskin and fresh Imeruli
• Regional Specialties: Corn flour from Abasha, Svanuri marili (Georgian spice blend)
• Seasonal Products: Churchkhela, preserves, and pickled vegetables
• Local Wines: Traditional Georgian varieties served with complementary chasers

Shopping Tips

The bazaar welcomes visitors daily from 7 AM to 5 PM. Seasoned shoppers suggest coming after mid-morning when vendors have their displays ready. Miss Nana’s traditional Guda cheese and Tamaz Gachechiladze’s exceptional pickled treats are must-try items. The market may seem chaotic, but its lively atmosphere and authentic products make it essential to understanding Georgian culinary culture.

Mother Georgia Statue

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The iconic Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia) stands proudly on Sololaki Hill as one of Tbilisi’s most symbolic landmarks. This majestic aluminum figure reaches 20 meters into the sky and captures the Georgian spirit through its powerful symbolism.

Statue History

The statue’s story began in 1958 when it was built to celebrate Tbilisi’s 1500th anniversary as a wooden structure. Workers added an aluminum coating in 1963 to shield it from weather damage. The weathered statue was replaced with a similar new version in 1997. The masterpiece came from prominent Georgian sculptor Elguja Amashukeli. We awarded him the Shota Rustaveli State Prize in 1966 for this creation.

Best Viewpoints

You can quickly reach this magnificent monument by taking the cable car from Rike Park. The service runs from 10 AM to 10 PM, with longer hours during busy tourist seasons. A well-paved stairway on Betlemi Street takes you past historic spots like Jumah Mosque and Abanotubani bathhouses.

Photography Tips

The statue’s position creates both challenges and opportunities for photographers. The base’s viewing platform gives you a great view, though getting good frontal shots can be tricky. Morning light works best for photos, while night shots capture the lit-up statue against Tbilisi’s glittering skyline. The statue’s symbolic elements make striking silhouettes against the Georgian sky – a wine bowl for friends in her left hand and a sword for enemies in her right.

Tbilisi State Opera

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The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater stands as one of the city’s most important landmarks on Rustaveli Avenue. This cultural gem, which has carried Zakaria Paliashvili’s name since 1937, captivates audiences with its spectacular performances and architectural beauty.

Opera History

A grand masked ball launched Transcaucasia’s first opera house on April 12, 1851. Italian architect Giovanni Scudieri’s original design burned down in 1874. The current building, designed by architect Victor Schröter, opened its doors in 1896. The venue has welcomed many prestigious companies through the years, including the Italian Opera, Vienna Court Opera, and St. Petersburg Imperial Ballet.

Performance Schedule

We presented a blend of classical and Georgian productions. Abesalom and Eteri, Zakaria Paliashvili’s masterpiece, opens each season. Today’s repertoire includes both opera and ballet shows that start at 19:00. Tickets are available at reasonable prices, starting from 20 GEL.

Architecture Highlights

The building’s design combines pseudo-Moorish style with Islamic architectural elements beautifully. The interior features:

• A richly decorated two-story portico
• Sculptural ornaments and elegant metal constructions
• A central chandelier adorned with Haupt and Swarovski crystals and 600 light bulbs

The theater contains six rehearsal halls and three distinctive spaces – the Red Hall, Blue Hall, and Mirror Hall. These venues host vocal and chamber music concerts regularly.

Chronicles of Georgia

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The Chronicle of Georgia monument stands majestically above the Tbilisi Sea. This massive structure, known as the “Georgian Stonehenge,” captures the nation’s rich heritage through detailed designs.

Monument History

Georgian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli designed this remarkable monument and started its construction in 1985. It celebrates 3,000 years of Georgian sovereignty and 2,000 years of Christianity. Sixteen towering pillars, each 30-35 meters tall, define the site. The pillars feature Georgian kings, queens, and heroes at the top, while biblical scenes from Christ’s life adorn the lower parts. A grapevine cross of St. Nino stands next to these pillars, marking the saint who brought Christianity to Georgia.

Getting There

You can reach the Chronicles in two simple ways:

• Take Metro Line 1 to Ghrmaghele station and catch bus #60 to the Military School stop
• Book a Bolt taxi from central Tbilisi that costs about 16 GEL one way

Best Photo Spots

The site looks best in photos during early morning and sunset. You’ll get amazing views of the Tbilisi Sea and nearby suburbs from here. A small chapel behind the rock pillars adds another interesting element to your photos. The monument’s nighttime lighting creates spectacular effects that make evening photography special.

Turtle Lake

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Turtle Lake stands as a peaceful retreat from city life in Tbilisi’s foothills. This beautiful lake has become a favorite spot where locals and tourists gather to enjoy nature and modern facilities.

Lake Activities

The lake comes alive with fun activities year-round. Summer brings swimming season and visitors can enjoy paddle boating and fishing. Kids love the entertainment playground while sports enthusiasts head to the mini-football stadium in the recreational complex. Adventure seekers can get an amazing bird’s eye view of the lake from the zipline, which costs 20 GEL.

Hiking Trails

A scenic 2.4-mile trail links Vake Park to Turtle Lake. Hikers typically complete this moderately challenging route in about 1 hour and 27 minutes. The trail climbs steeply and rewards you with breathtaking city views. The best time to hit these trails is from February through May. A gentler 0.7-mile loop circles the lake and makes a perfect 15-minute stroll.

Lakeside Dining

Summer cafes and bars dot the lakeside. Two large beach clubs anchor the shoreline and serve up diverse menu options. During peak season, a professional concert venue on a pontoon hosts various events. The laid-back atmosphere makes this spot perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying evening entertainment.

Art Palace Museum

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The Art Palace Museum stands as a Gothic-Oriental masterpiece in Tbilisi. Paul Stern designed this remarkable building in 1895, and today it serves as the Georgian State Museum of Theater, Music, Cinema and Choreography. The museum’s collection includes more than 300,000 objects that showcase Georgia’s artistic heritage.

Museum Collections

The museum houses an impressive collection across various artistic disciplines. The Depository of Manuscripts holds works from literary giants, including manuscripts from Ilia Chavchavadze and Pyotr Tchaikovsky. The Fine Arts collection features:

• 16th-century Persian miniatures
• 18th-century French engravings
• Works by prominent artists like Léon Bakst and David Kakabadze
• 362 pieces by famous local designer Petre Otskheli

Palace Architecture

Gothic and Islamic architectural elements blend seamlessly in this unique building. A striking three-story tower dominates the structure with decorated cornices and an open terrace. The palace’s history tells a romantic story – German Prince Constantine Oldenburg built it in 1882 as a gift of love to Agraphina Japaridze.

Guided Tours

The museum features seven permanent and two temporary exhibition halls. Visitors can learn about unique historical costumes worn by Georgian nobility in the Hall of National Attire. The museum welcomes guests Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Google Arts and Culture now hosts four distinctive exhibitions online, which has ended up boosting the museum’s accessibility.

Orbeliani Baths

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The Orbeliani Baths showcases a stunning Persian-inspired blue-tiled facade that reflects Tbilisi’s rich bathing culture. This historic bathhouse, once owned by the Orbeliani family, combines Islamic architectural elements with its lancet facade and twin minarets.

Bath House Features

Modern amenities fill the private rooms throughout the facility. The VIP suite has hot and cold plunge pools, dry sauna, and private showers. Premium suites feature a unique snow room that enhances the bathing experience. The bathhouse maintains excellent cleanliness standards with digital reception services and a professional staff.

Treatment Options

Traditional Georgian bathing rituals create the signature experience here. Skilled masseuses perform treatments on marble beds and use rough woolen mittens to exfoliate. The treatment menu has:

• Traditional kisi scrub (20 GEL)
• Relaxation massage
• Chocolate spa procedures
• Candle massage treatments

Booking Information

You need to book in advance through their website or by phone. Private room rates start at 50 GEL for one person and go up to 500 GEL for premium suites. The bathhouse operates daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The basic rate doesn’t cover towels, slippers, and amenities – these cost extra. Guests can bring their own items to save money.

Tbilisi Funicular

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The historic Tbilisi Funicular climbs elegantly from Chonkadze street and stands as one of Tbilisi’s most impressive engineering achievements. This remarkable cable railway connects the city center to Mtatsminda plateau, covering 501 meters with a height difference of 267 meters.

Funicular History

The experience started in September 1903 when Belgian engineer Alphonse Robbie started the construction. French engineer A. Blanche designed the project and worked closely with Tbilisi architect A. Shimkevich. Belgian and Italian engineers I. Ragoler and Al. Fontana-Ross led the construction with Georgian innovator Niko Nikoladze. The funicular’s opening on March 27, 1905, came with an interesting twist – locals were so hesitant that they needed financial incentives to try the first ride.

Operating Hours

The funicular runs daily from 09:00 to 23:30. Visitors need to buy a 2 GEL plastic card from ticket offices to start their ride. A one-way trip costs 10 GEL. Each carriage fits 60 passengers and runs every 10 minutes between stations. The entire trip takes just 3 minutes.

Mountain Views

The funicular rises at an angle of 28-33 degrees and offers stunning views of Tbilisi. The lower station starts at 460 meters above sea level and reaches the upper station at 727 meters. Several restaurants at the upper terminal create perfect spots to enjoy a meal while taking in the city views. The trip shows spectacular views of the city below and becomes especially magical during sunset hours.

Comparison Table

Location Name	Type	Historical Period	Main Features	Operating Hours	Entry Fee
Narikala Fortress	Historic Fortress	4th century (Persian)	Two walled sections with panoramic views	Year-round	Free
Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)	Historic District	5th century	Distinctive wooden balconies, Art Nouveau facades, Italian courtyards	24/7	Free
Abanotubani Sulfur Baths	Bath Complex	5th century	Traditional sulfur baths and kisi treatments	Varies by bathhouse	100-600 GEL (Chreli Abano)
Holy Trinity Cathedral	Religious Site	1995-2004	Stands 87.1m tall with 9 chapels and theological academy	9:00 AM – 7:00 PM	Free
Bridge of Peace	Modern Architecture	2010	156m bow-shaped bridge featuring LED light show	24/7 (lights 90 min before sunset)	Free
Dry Bridge Market	Open-air Market	1990s	Rich collection of antiques, art, Soviet memorabilia	10 AM – 5 PM daily	Free entry
Rustaveli Avenue	Cultural Boulevard	1860s	Notable historic buildings, shopping centers, cafes	24/7	Free
Fabrika	Cultural Hub	Soviet era (renovated)	Features 22 creative spaces, courtyard, dining spots	N/A	Varies
Mtatsminda Park	Amusement Park	N/A	Extreme zone, family area, Giant Wheel attractions	9:45 AM – 11:30 PM	Free entry
Tbilisi Botanical Garden	Nature Park	N/A	Houses 4,500 taxonomic plant groups and waterfall	N/A	4 GEL
Gabriadze Theater	Puppet Theater	1981	Intimate 80-seat venue with puppet shows and clock tower	Shows vary	N/A
Wine Factory #1	Cultural Complex	1894-1896	Collection of 40,000 wine bottles, restaurants, enoteca	Noon – 1:00 AM	N/A
Dezerter Bazaar	Market	1920s	Local fresh produce, traditional foods across 5 sections	7 AM – 5 PM	Free entry
Mother Georgia Statue	Monument	1958	Iconic 20m aluminum statue with viewing platform	10 AM – 10 PM (cable car)	N/A
Tbilisi State Opera	Cultural Venue	1851 (original)	Showcases opera/ballet in Moorish architecture	Shows at 19:00	From 20 GEL
Chronicles of Georgia	Monument	1985	Impressive 16 pillars (30-35m) depicting historical scenes	24/7	Free
Turtle Lake	Recreation Area	N/A	Popular for swimming, hiking trails, water sports	N/A	Varies by activity
Art Palace Museum	Museum	1895	Houses 300,000 artifacts in Gothic-Oriental style	10:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tue-Sun)	N/A
Orbeliani Baths	Bath House	N/A	Distinctive Persian architecture with traditional treatments	8:00 AM – 10:00 PM	50-500 GEL
Tbilisi Funicular	Transport	1905	Scenic 501m cable railway offering mountain views	09:00 – 23:30	10 GEL one-way

Conclusion

Tbilisi is a remarkable mixture of ancient and modern attractions that tells a unique story at every corner. The city amazes visitors with its range of experiences – from the 4th-century Narikala Fortress overlooking the city to the modern Bridge of Peace that lights up the night sky.

The city doesn’t follow just one historical path. Its architecture and cultural spaces blend Persian, Byzantine, Soviet, and contemporary influences. Ancient sulfur baths of Abanotubani keep their centuries-old tradition alive, and creative spaces like Fabrika give Soviet-era buildings a fresh purpose.

The Holy Trinity Cathedral and Rustaveli Avenue draw most tourists, but the real treasures lie in Old Town’s Italian courtyards and the lively stalls of Dezerter Bazaar. Grand monuments like the Chronicles of Georgia stand tall, yet simple joys like evening walks around Turtle Lake add to the city’s magic.

Tbilisi ended up becoming special because it knows how to keep traditions while welcoming change. This piece shows just a glimpse of what you can find – each visit uncovers new sides of Georgia’s fascinating capital.