Tbilisi: Georgia’s Eclectic Capital – Where East Meets West
Tbilisi is a city of boiling sulfur baths, cobblestoned old towns, and Soviet-era oddities, all nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Mtkvari River. Founded in the 5th century AD, it’s a place where Persian caravanserais, Art Nouveau mansions, and futuristic glass bridges collide.
Key Facts
Population: ~1.2 million (1/3 of Georgia’s population).
Language: Georgian (but English/Russian widely understood).
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) & Autumn (Sept-Oct).
Must-Try: Khinkali (dumplings), Churchkhela (snack), and Tbilisi’s natural sulfur baths.
Top Attractions
1. Old Tbilisi (Altstadt)
Narikala Fortress – 4th-century citadel with panoramic views.
Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani) – Domed baths fed by hot springs.
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall – Hidden cascade in the old town.
2. Modern Landmarks
Peace Bridge – Glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge.
Rike Park & Cable Car – Ride to Narikala Fortress.
Tbilisi Skyline – Best seen from Mtatsminda Park.
3. Soviet & Avant-Garde Oddities
Chronicles of Georgia – Gigantic Soviet-era monument.
Tbilisi Sea – Artificial lake with abandoned resorts.
Bank of Georgia HQ – Brutalist architectural marvel.
4. Cultural Gems
Dive Bar – Legendary underground punk bar.
Fabrika – Soviet sewing factory turned hipster hub.
Dry Bridge Market – Soviet antiques and quirky art.
Neighborhoods to Explore
District Vibe
Old Town Historic, touristy
Vera Bohemian, Art Nouveau
Sololaki Grand 19th-century mansions
Saburtalo Soviet residential blocks
Chugureti Hipster cafes & flea markets
Tbilisi’s Food & Drink Scene
Must-Eat Dishes:
Khinkali (Juicy dumplings – try Pasanauri restaurant).
Khachapuri (Cheese bread – Imeretian or Adjarian style).
Badrijani Nigvzit (Eggplant rolls with walnut paste).
Drink Like a Local:
Natural Georgian Wine – Try Saperavi (red) or Rkatsiteli (white).
Chacha – Fiery grape pomace brandy.
Best Cafes:
Café Linville (Old Town charm).
Entrée (French-style bakery).
Day Trips from Tbilisi
30-60 min away:
Mtskheta (Ancient capital, UNESCO sites).
David Gareja (Cave monastery in the desert).
Sighnaghi (Kakheti’s "City of Love").
Getting Around
Metro: Cheap (0.50 GEL/ride) – two lines.
Taxis: Bolt/Yandex Taxi (affordable).
Walking: Best way to explore the Old Town.
Insider Tips
Bathhouse Etiquette: Private rooms at Orbeliani Baths are worth the splurge.
Avoid Tourist Traps: Skip overpriced Old Town restaurants – eat at local spots like Shavi Lomi.
Cash is King: Many places don’t accept cards.
Tbilisi is chaotic, charming, and utterly unique—a city where you can soak in a sulfur bath at noon, sip natural wine by sunset, and dance in a Soviet bunker at midnight.
