Georgia’s Dynamic Capital Tbilisi has become one of the best destinations to visit in the recent past. Its warm hospitality, chaotic atmosphere and eccentric charm makes it a very captivating city. Don’t forget to keep your camera handy, every corner has something new to capture. But what really makes one think is, how can a city as small as Tbilisi constantly surprise its visitors. Read on to know more about the many things to do in Tbilisi city and what makes it so special.
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A Glance Through Tbilisi’s History
Georgia’s capital Tbilisi was discovered by the King of Iberia, Vakhtang I in the 5th century. During a hunting expedition the King spotted a place with sulphuric hot springs. It is because of these hot springs (T’pilisi, meaning warm location) Tbilisia got its name. Because of its favorable trade location between the Trialeti and Kartli ranges, Tbilisi was made the capital of Georgia. Since then the city has come under the control of various powers including the Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, Mongols, Seljuk Turks, Iranians and Russians. Its strategically positioned location happens to be the reason for its rise as well as its downfall.
8 Wonderful Things To Do In Tbilisi
Our list below has a mix of both unusual and impressive experiences that are some of the must try things to do in Tbilisi while here.
1. Visit The Chronicle Of Georgia
The Chronicle of Georgia is a Soviet-era monument, built to commemorate the 2,000-year anniversary of Christianity in Georgia. This large-scale sculpture by Zurab Tsereteli consists of 16 massive pillars that are 35 meters tall. Each of these pillars have biblical stories at the bottom, scenes from Georgian history in the middle and important Georgian rituals along the top. The site also offers panoramic views of the Sea and the surrounding landscapes.
2. Take A Tbilisi Cable Car Ride
No trip to Georgia is complete without taking a cable car ride in Tbilisi. The skies are filled with these rides and you can see them everywhere. The aerial view of Tbilisi city from above will leave you awestruck. From up there, sweeping views of the Mtkvari River and tapestry of old and new architecture is clearly visible. Do not forget to ask for the cable cars with a glass floor. It may take a while to go on this ride, but it is completely worth it.
3. Soak In The Warm Sulfur Baths
To experience the sulfur baths in Abanotubani is one of the main reasons why tourists come to Tbilisi. The natural hot springs offer a range of health and beauty treatments. The traditional Georgian bath starts with the exfoliating scrub down called a Kisi, then a relaxing sulfur bath and ends with a traditional massage. Almost all bathhouses have private rooms where you can bathe and steam alone. Getting a hot bath during the colder months is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi city.
Click Here To Book Your Tbilisi and Mtskheta Tour
4. Explore Tbilisi’s Old Town On Foot
The historic Old Town with narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque alleyways is the heart and soul of Tbilisi. The best way to explore this immensely interesting town is by foot. You will pass by colorful wooden houses with old Georgian balconies, beautiful cafes and restaurants. Its amazing architecture inspired from the Persian, Ottoman, Russian and European styles reveals something about Georgia’s rich past. It is truly a photographer’s paradise.
5. Hike To Narikala Fortress
There are two ways to reach Narikala Fortress, a 4th-century fortress in Tbilisi. One option is to take the Tbilisi Cable Car and the second option is to hike to the fortress. The entire hike offers sweeping views of the sparkling skyline and surrounding hills. There is nothing much of the fortress left because of an earthquake but tourists come here since it is an excellent vantage point for photographing and to catch some of the best sunsets. Definitely one of the best things to do in Tbilisi.
6. Shop At The Deserter Bazaar
Visit the sprawling Deserter Bazaar for some good flavorful products that are sold at great prices. Locals here set up the market both inside and outside the bazaar. The indoor area is packed with fresh spices of every color, cheese, honey, traditional Georgian sweets and the outdoor area sells heaps of fresh produce like fruit and vegetables. To get an authentic glimpse into local life and the food culture, a visit to the market is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi.
7. Check Out The Art Scenes At The National Gallery
Dimitri Shevardnadze National Art Gallery located right off Rustaveli Avenue is where you can find Georgia’s most notable works of art. From noted artists like Niko Pirosmani to Lado Gudashvili, David Kakabadze to Sergo Kobuladze, the gallery houses over 30,000 pieces of Georgian art and culture. The most notable work of them all is the painting of Niko Pirosmani called “Fisherman in a Red Shirt.” If you are a total art freak, then a visit to this art gallery is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi.
8. Taste Some Georgian Wine
Making and drinking of wine has been a process in the country that can be dated back to 8,000-year-old. This doesn’t come as a surprise as Georgia grows more than 500 grapes varieties throughout the country. They follow the traditional method of fermenting where wine is preserved in clay vessels (Qvevri) and buried underground. There are countless wine bars and cellars in Tbilisi where you can not only see the process of wine making but also taste it. Whether a wine-lover or not, you have to taste Georgian wines as it is one of the best things to do in Tbilisi before your tour ends.
Also Read: Georgia Travel Guide: An Enticing Blend Of The East And West
Conclusion
Tbilisi is easily approachable not just because of the efficient metro system and affordable taxis but also because this place is easily accessible by foot too. So, while you are here make sure to book a walking tour to experience Tbilisi, one of the most fascinating destinations in Eurasia. Its history, culture, architecture, nightlife, food, vineyards and the other things to do in Tbilisi will make you fall in love with this place. Book now, the city of Tbilisi is waiting with open arms to welcome you.
FAQs
With many nightclubs and nightlife spots having live music bands performing all night, nightlife in Tbilisi is great. Good food, good wine and good views adds on to the overall experience. Some of the notable areas to enjoy and experience the Tbilisi nightlife are, Old Town, Rustaveli Avenue, and Akhvlediani Street and Chardin area.
April to May and September to October are the best times to visit Tbilisi. During these months the Tbilisi weather is quite pleasant for all outdoor activities. Winter months are also a good time to visit as this is the time for Christmas markets and winter fun.
The historic Old Town neighborhood is the best part of Tbilisi. Its cobblestone streets, hot sulfur baths, colorful houses and vibrant cafes make this place a hit among travelers.
