12 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Tbilisi, Georgia

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Georgia is an ancient and fascinating country. Straddling both Europe and Asia, the Georgian capital of Tbilisi is one of the most unique cities on either continent.

Even better: it has gone almost undetected by the hordes of tourists. An up-and-coming destination in Eastern Europe, There are many reasons to visit Tbilisi.

Visiting Tbilisi, Georgia

If I had to describe Tbilisi in one word, my answer would be simple: eclectic. The architecture spans the ages giving it an eclectic personality with a blend of old and new.

Why Visit Tbilisi?

old city of Tbilisi Georgia

Georgia is rapidly developing. It is fast becoming one of the countries from the former Soviet-era bloc with the least amount of crime and corruption.  Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia is one of the safest cities in Europe.

With its love for food and wine, Georgia has a similar vibe to Italy but is more affordable. It’s also a geographically diverse place, with breathtaking beaches and some of the tallest peaks in Europe.

Tbilisi is a hip city of flavors and experiences that you simply cannot miss. There are so many things to do in Tbilisi and below are my favorite things! Check out another great Georgian city at our Batumi Travel Guide

1. The Picturesque Old City

visit Tbilisi Georgia | old city building

Tbilisi has been through wars and occupations throughout its history. Because of its location between Europe and Asia, it has been the center of many conflicts.

It has been destroyed dozens of times, but magically a lot of the Old City of Tbilisi remains. You can get lost in here for hours, seeing its ancient buildings and old balconies. The colorful streets are full of boutiques that are perfect for shopping to take something home. 

tbilisi travel | old city balconies

A peek through open windows and the many green yards will give you a truly authentic feel of the everyday Tbilisi life!

2. The Architecture Contrasts

Due to its vast and convoluted history, full of invasions and cultural exchanges, the Tbilisi architecture is very eclectic. It is a place where the east meets the west.

fire escape on side of building in georgia tbilisi

Byzantine buildings from the Middle Ages share spaces with Art Deco constructions. And then, everywhere, traces of the stark Stalinist grandeur remain.

stalin building | georgia tbilisi
Stalin Buildings

Even more impressive are the modern-day buildings and huge glass structures like the Bridge of Peace. It’s a must spot on the list of Tbilisi attractions.

peace bridge | modern architecture tblisi
Bridge of Peace

I love how the newer building designs are fully transparent, to convey the government’s commitment to the fight against corruption. The architecture is so varied and eclectic, it’s hard to settle on a single place to look at when in Tbilisi! So instead, take it all in and enjoy the view!

3. The Settings & Views

looking at Mtkvari River in Tbilisi

Tbilisi lies at the foothill of the Trialeti mountain range on the Mtkvari River (Kura River). The scene of rolling hills and flowing water makes for truly amazing viewpoints.

arial tramway over Kura River | City of Tbilisi

There’s an aerial tramway that goes up the mountains. Take one of the cable cars from Rike Park on the left bank of the River up to Narikala Fortress where you can overlook the city.

4. Narikala Fortress

tbilisi viewpoint

Narikala is a medieval fortress built in the 4th century located beside the botanical gardens. It’s the perfect place to get unforgettable pictures of Tbilisi. A truly magical setting!

5. The Incredible Food & Hip Eateries

georgian food | where to eat in tbilisi

One of the most popular and satisfying things to do in Tbilisi is eating. Georgia is a country for foodies, with a rich cuisine dating back centuries. And you can not leave Tbilisi without trying one of my favorite Georgian foods, Khachapuri, Khinkali, and Pkhali.

You should try to have a home-cooked meal for a taste of traditional Georgian cuisine. Of course, this can be difficult, but Georgians are friendly people and you never know.

6. For the Fantastic Food Scene in Tbilisi

best tbilisi restaruants

Tblisi has an amazing food scene offering beautiful outdoor settings and chic indoor decor. These are my favourite restaurants in Tbilisi.

  • Keto & Kote. An Old City gem, the food is delicious and, much like Tbilisi itself, the design mixes old and new. It’s an old house renovated with a fully modern look!
  • Lolita. Serving international food with a Georgian twist, it’s a super cool eatery that’s also part of the local nightlife. Perfect evening spot during weekends with a great vibe and delicious cocktails!
  • Iveria Terrace. Located at the Radisson Blu, it offers a magnificent view of Tbilisi, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a nightcap!
  • Culinarium Khasheria. Experimental cuisine based on the traditional flavors of Georgia, using purely organic ingredients.
  • Fabrika. A former Soviet sewing factory, it’s now a hip brunch place with an amazing vibe and very cute design.
  • Arthouse Tbilisi. A truly unique place and the very first club house in Tbilisi full of restaurants, clubs, gym and creative spaces. A must visit!

7. The Famous Georgian Wine Bars

georgian wine bar

Many historians believe Georgia may be the oldest wine region in the world – they’ve been producing it for 8,000 years!

As they definitely know their way around vino, Georgians have a wide selection of fine wines. Whether you’re into sweet, semi-sweet or dry, you’ll find plenty of options here. For an incredible wine-tasting experience, Wine Gallery, near Fabrika, is the place to be.

8. The Artsy Vibe

hipster art scene |tbilisi georgia

There’s something in the air in Tbilisi that is very hard to express in words. As a growing city making its way into the future after a turbulent past, there’s an invigorating sense of life here.

hipster art georgia

One of my favorite things to do in Tbilisi is a visit and brunch at the creative old sewing factory Fabrika.

There are artists and creative people of all sorts in the Georgian capital – and you can definitely tell! I love all the hipster art murals and hipster hot spots around town.

9. A visit to the Public Baths – A Must Among Things To Do In Tbilisi!

Tbilisi sulphur baths

Just outside the Old City, the ancient baths are among the most popular things to do in Tbilisi. Famous all-over Eastern Europe, the sulfur baths of Abanotubani are a unique experience.

Thought to help with skin issues, there are beautiful Byzantine structures built around the natural phenomenon. Each of the baths is a colorful wonder from the outside and going inside takes you back in time to that ancient era. .

When you plan a trip to the baths, why not walk along the Kura River? It is a lovely trip.

10. Palpable History & Mtskheta

history of tbilisi

Georgia was part of many kingdoms during ancient times, and it has been a unified nation since the Middle Ages. The country has been occupied by the Mongolians, the Ottoman Empire, Russia, and the USSR.

It is an ancient and proud nation, and the Capital of Georgia, Tbilisi showcases examples of that everywhere. And so does the city’s surroundings. Book day tours to Mtskheta here.

11. Sololaki Hill

UNESCO World Heritage Site Mtskheta

A statue at the top of Sololaki Hill known as Mother Georgia represents the character of Georgia. Holding a bowl of wine, she welcomes friends while wielding a sword to fend of her foes.

Mtskheta is one of the oldest Christian settlements in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Barely 30 minutes away from Tbilisi by car, Mtskheta makes for a great day trip from Tbilisi. Mtskheta is actually considered a Holy City in the Georgian Orthodox Church, as it is where Christianity first bloomed in the country. So if you are up for and excursion, put Mtskheta on your list.

11. The Georgian Hospitality

visit georgia | georgian hospitality

If there’s one thing Georgians are known for – besides making great wine – is their hospitality. It’s well-regarded as one of the nicest nations in Europe, and everyone will always give you a hand.

My tour guide, Gaggi, was a prime example: he didn’t just take me to the landmarks, he showed me the pulse of Tbilisi and even invited me into the homes of some locals.  Just as I met him, he told me I wasn’t his client but his guest – and I could feel his honesty.

Whenever you visit Georgia, wherever you go, whether it’s a hotel, a restaurant or a landmark, everyone is super nice. Georgians are incredible hosts!

12. The Cool Hipster Hotels

boutique hotels in Tbilisi Geogrian capital

There are few things I love more than staying at a beautiful boutique hotel where you get a true experience and can feel the personal touch. Between the Georgian hospitality, the beautiful contrasts of Tbilisi and the city’s vibe, there are plenty of those here.

The hotels alone are a great reason to visit.  My favorite hotel in town is The Rooms Tbilisi. It’s in the Old City, specifically in the shabby chic area of Vera. A boutique and hipster dream!

Once a publishing house, its current design mixes industrial chic and New York style. It’s a cozy place full of books, with lovely facilities and drinks. A true gem! Check prices on Trip Advisor / Booking.com

How to get to Tbilisi?

Tbilisi is easily accessible by plane, as its airport receives flights from most Balkan capitals and many western Europe and Middle East cities. The airport is between 20 to 30 minutes away from downtown and will probably grow further soon!

So, for the road less travelled, Tbilisi is a must for your bucket list! But…you better go sooner than later as it is making it to more and more hotspot travel lists!

Where is Georgia?

Georgia is located on the east side of the Black Sea. It is bordered by Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.

What are the top Tbilisi attractions?

The top attractions in Tbilisi are Old Town, The Public Baths, Mtskheta the aerial tramway, the cable car, The Peace Bridge, Narikala

What is the Capital of Georgia?

Tbilisi is the capital of the country of Georgia.

Is it safe to Visit Tbilisi Georgia?

Tbilisi is very safe, in fact, it is one of the safest cities in Europe.

Check out these related articles:

Enjoy this article on Tbilisi? Save it to Pinterest for future Travel Planning

Reasons to visit Tbilisi Georgia

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

Leave a Comment

3 thoughts on “12 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Tbilisi, Georgia”

  1. Georgia is such a hot destination right now and I can see why. The architecture in Tbilisi is gorgeous. I’d pay a visit just to see all those beautiful buildings. Well, that and the food. I’ll go anywhere for great food.

    Reply