Tbilisi, is the capital city of Georgia, and one of the main attractions and historical places in the country. Recently, Tbilisi has become popular with tourists around the globe, especially from Asia, Australia, Europe and Middle Eastern countries. Going around the city is relatively easy, as most of the attractions are accessible by walk. If you want to experience European vibes on a budget and still get the perfect balance of convenience, then Tbilisi is for you.
Although day tour package are available, doing it on your own is advisable which I did, yes it’s possible especially if you are staying near old town as all historical places are in this area. You can, manage to roam around this popular tourist attraction at your own pace and time.
Below are the list of the best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Wander in Narikala Fortress
One of the popular tourist attractions you should never miss visiting in Tbilisi is Narikala an ancient fortress with an overlooking view of Tbilisi. This fortress is accessible by walk or by cable car (4 Gel one way). In my case, since I am staying at Envoy Hostel, which is just below Narikala, I opted to ride a cable Car going up and then walk to my hostel going down after.
Take a picture with Mother of Georgia Statue
The Mother of Georgia statue is an important symbol of Georgian culture and heritage, representing the country’s strength, hospitality, and welcoming nature. The statue was erected on the top of Sololaki Hill, next to the Narikala Fortress. The status holds a bowl of wine in her left hand, which symbolizes greeting those who come to Georgia as friends, while a sword in her right hand symbolizes those who come as enemies.
Explore National Botanical Garden
Exploring the National Botanical Garden is one activity you should not miss when you are in Tbilisi. It is just below the Narikala Fortress, and it occupies an area of 161 hectares and possesses a different collection of plants and trees. Never miss visiting the famous waterfalls at the end of the garden.
Discover the Old Town in Tbilisi, Georgia
Indulge yourself in one of the oldest towns in the world and discover its history. Old Tbilisi includes Abanatubani, which is still functioning as sulfur baths, churches, museums, and lastly, Sharden Street, where popular restaurants, open-air cafés, nightclubs, galleries are located. Another main charm of old Tbilisi is the architecture – old street vendors, cobblestone houses, wooden carved houses, and balconies.
Metekhi Church
Metekhi, is another Georgian Othodox Christian church that can visit around Tbilisi. It is located on the left bank of the river Kura. It sits on the Metekhi Cliff opposite the old town of Tbilisi.
Experience Sulfur Bath
Sulfur bathing in Tbilisi is a must-do activity when you are in the city, especially during the autumn or winter season when the temperature is cold. After a tiring day on your tour, it is worth it to reward yourself with a thermal bath to relax and rejuvenate. According to research, the sulfur bath has many benefits, like aiding in the treatment of skin conditions, soothing aching muscles and joints, enhancing blood circulation and improving the immune system.
You can choose from operating sulfur bath houses in the old town area of Abanatubani, like Chreli-abano, Gulo’s thermal spa, bathouse #5, which are famous in the area. The price of the sulfur bath, depending on your preference for a private room, ranges from 70 to 150 Georgian gels. A public sulfur bath is also available, which is around 5 to 10 Georgian gels, if I am not mistaken. You also have the option to try the bath massage or kisi scrub, which is done by Mekise for an additional 20 gels. By the way, giving a tip is optional (if you do so, 10% is standard).
Walk in the Bridge of Piece
Close to the old town is the Bridge of Peace, a modern pedestrian bridge made of steel and glass that stretches 150 meters, crossing the Kura River and linking to Rike Park. At night, this bridge is illuminated with numerous LED lights, making it alive and outstanding.
Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral
Also known as Sameba is the largest functional church of Georgia and the third-biggest Orthodox cathedral in the world. The cathedral is visible in every corner of Tbilisi, situated on the left bank of River Mtkvari, on Ellia Hill, in historic district of Avlabari.
Liberty Square
Located in the center of Tbilisi is the freedom square also called as liberty square. It is one of the famous place to visit when you are in Tbilisi.
Check out the Leaning Tower of Tbilisi-Clock Tower
Built in the side street of old town of Tbilisi is strange tower leaning and a steel beam holding in place with a huge clock sits in the middle.
Budget in Tbilisi Georgia
A day tour around Tbilisi normally costs around 30 to 40 USD. But again, since all the above tourist attractions are nearby, I advise doing it on your own. This way, you can save your budget and explore the area at your own pace, hence, you can allocate it to your food, which costs around 10 to 20 USD, including the cable car ride. If you want to eat at a fine dining restaurant after, it’s up to you. Also, if you are a little bit tired, a taxi option is also available, which only costs around 2 to 3 USD per ride around the area. I used the Bolt app when I was in Tbilisi. It is the most common taxi app in the city.
So, have you been to Tbilisi, Georgia? Please share your thoughts and experience.
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