Here's a quick-start guide to traveling in Tbilisi. From restaurants and points of attraction to logistical concerns like transportation. I've got you!
Language: Georgian. The second widely spoken language is Russian. Many people in the hospitality industry speak English. Google Translate has helped me in other places such as the pharmacy.
Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL). This currency is available on Wise, the free multi-currency account. Hold, send and convert funds from multiple currencies easily. Check it out below:
Transportation: Tbilisi is a very walkable city but there are other options when you need it.
π: There are two metro lines and they are easily navigable as the stations are small, have English names posted and arrows for clear directions. For the first time, you will need to purchase a plastic metro card for 2GEL plus the cost of the ride 1GEL. The card can be used by multiple people. Use the same card to ride buses as well.
πMarshrutky (mar-shoot-key) are minibuses that are used as public transport. You can use a pre-loaded transport card and tap in on the machine near the door. You can also pay the driver in cash. They are typically found at bus stations
πRideshare apps: Download Bolt to avoid having to haggle with taxi drivers. YandexGo is another option. Both apps allow you to pay with cash or card.
Where to stay: Tbilisi's attractions are spread throughout the city so you have options for finding the best neighborhood that works for you.
- Avlabari is close to the Old Town, has neighborhood stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables right outside your hotel, and has a metro station nearby. Mini-buses going from Armenia-Georgia can be found in this area as well (across the metro station on the same street as the Bank of Georgia). .Β
- Rustaveli is named after the famous writer, Shota Rustaveli. The boulevard bearing his name is home to the country's national museums, mall, metro station, and craft stalls (by schedule). Liberty Square is at one end of the the boulevard. Stay near this road if you want to be close to everything.Β
Ibis hotels are known for having everything you need at an affordable price. The location is superb for night life as there are any bars and restaurants within walking distance.
This memorable hotel looks like a traditional Georgian home from the outside but is decorated to stand out on the inside. Travelers should know that climbing stairs is necessary to enjoy this space.
Khinkali and khachapuri are the most popular Georgian dishes. Don't forget to also try these classics:
- Shkmeruli - chicken in garlic sauce
- Medovik - a layered cake with honey, cream, and a sprinkle of magic
- Kompot - the prefect summer drink made with water, sugar, and fruit.Β
Popular Day Trips
- Kazbegi - This mountain area is popular year round for outdoor sports, the Russia-Georgia Friendship monument, mountain views. Regardless of where you stay and the season, be sure to check out the Rooms Hotel for their hot chocolate and pastries.Β
Visit the beautiful, though controversial, monument of friendship between Russia and Georgia. It was built in 1983 to mark the bicentennial of the Treaty of Georgievsk.
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- Tusheti National Park - Mitsubishi could film a commercial for their Delica vans in the Tusheti National Park as the hardy vehicles are the top choice for tour operators making the dangerous trek week after week. There are multiple marked hiking trails for all levels, ruins, mountain villages, and lakes to explore in this beautiful area.Β
For the adventurers and nature lovers. Tusheti's roads are only accessible half the year and can be dangerous without a skilled driver but its people, ruins, and mountains are worth it. β₯οΈ
One of the best Georgia restaurants in the city. Be sure to try the compot and the Beef Chakondrili and Tashmijabi (beef with potatoes and cheese in a cherry sauce)
If you can't visit the vineyards, this is an excellent place to do a customized wine tasting. A member of staff will ask you about your preferences and suggest wines to your liking.Β
There are few restaurants showcasing Uyghur cuisine in the world. This is a must visit! You can watch the staff hand make the noodles and cook your delicious dumplings at the street level. The restaurant space is one floor down.
The caravanserai is where merchants on the Silk Road would stop when in Georgia. It is now a home to professional blacksmiths, a bakery, and other small businesses. This is right across from the Tbilisi History Museum.
The Fabrika complex is home to a hostel but also other small bars and entertainment businesses. Mingle with fellow travelers, expats, and locals alike.
This is home of the Gabriadze puppet theatre where you can still catch performances. The building itself is worthy of attention. Visit at noon or at 7:00 pm for a short puppet show about the circle of life appearing out of the clock. Many other areas of interest (cafes, shops, historical buildings) are within the immediate vicinity.
Enjoy the park in the daytime or night time. Here you can access the Peace Bridge which sends messages of peace in morse code (when it's working) at night, and the Mother of Georgia statue using the cable car.
Enjoy city views day or night by using the cable car to reach the highest points of the city. You can access Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue from here. The cable car requires a transport card (the same one you would use for the metro or bus) and 2.50GEL each way. Multiple people can use the same card.
Take the funicular up to the park where you can find stunning views, rides and carnival games, and a great restaurant. It requires a card that costs 2GEL if you don't already have one, and 10GEL for a round trip ride. Multiple people can use the same card.
Tbilisi was made the capital upon the discovery of these famous sulfur baths. Find multiple bath houses for a Georgian soak and scrub at an affordable price.
The best spa experience in the city! Book a service (e.g., massage, facial, hammam) and get access to the whole facility. Or for around 100GEL, you can access the spa, gym, and pool facilities.
Hi, I'm Debbie. Travel and food are my biggest passions. I've wandered through ancient ruins, savored culinary delights, and immersed myself in the rich history and traditions of remarkable places. Let me help you find the magic and flavors in your next destination!
