Dry Bridge Market - Old Bridge
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Dry Bridge Market

4.5
·9k reviews·Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi's vibrant open-air flea market, brimming with Soviet relics, art, antiques, and handmade crafts. A treasure trove for history buffs and souven...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Most vendors & best selection

CrowdHigh
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Dry Bridge Market - Old Bridge

Dry Bridge Market

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Most vendors & best selection

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tbilisi's vibrant open-air flea market, brimming with Soviet relics, art, antiques, and handmade crafts. A treasure trove for history buffs and souvenir hunters.

4.5
(9k reviews)

"An impressive Market to visit on a Sunday morning with lots of treasures and hidden gems. Must see place!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Bring Cash!

Vendors primarily accept cash. Have small denominations of Georgian Lari ready for easy transactions.

🕰️ Take Your Time

With so many unique items, you can easily spend hours exploring. Don't rush your treasure hunt!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Soviet Memorabilia

Soviet Memorabilia

Throughout the market

Discover medals, vintage cameras, and unique relics from the Soviet era. A nostalgic trip for history buffs!

Local Art & Crafts

Local Art & Crafts

Art zone and craft stalls

Browse vibrant paintings, handmade feltwork, and traditional Georgian instruments. Support local artists!

Antique Finds

Antique Finds

Various stalls

Hunt for old coins, maps, vinyl records, and unique Georgian artifacts. Every item has a story.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Days for Treasures

While open daily, weekends offer the widest selection of vendors and unique finds. Arrive early to snag the best deals and avoid the biggest crowds. Weekdays are quieter, perfect for a more relaxed browse.

Cash is King

Most vendors at Dry Bridge Market prefer cash, so come prepared with Georgian Lari in small denominations. Haggling is common, so don't be afraid to negotiate for that perfect souvenir!

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Most vendors & best selection
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter browsing, good deals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

The Dry Bridge Flea Market in Tbilisi, Georgia, runs daily 10-5 (weather depending). Need a soviet clock? Is one button missing from grandma's sweater? Jewelry, original art, door knobs, rugs, dishes and car parts.... this is the place to be.

💰 Bring Cash!

Vendors primarily accept cash. Have small denominations of Georgian Lari ready for easy transactions. Reddit

🕰️ Take Your Time

With so many unique items, you can easily spend hours exploring. Don't rush your treasure hunt! Reddit

reddit.com

Flea markets in Tbilisi

reddit.com

thrifting

🤝 Haggle Politely

Bargaining is part of the experience. Be respectful and friendly when negotiating prices. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vibe

The market is a visual feast! Don't forget your camera to document the eclectic atmosphere. Instagram

reddit.com

minankari pieces at dry bridge market

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Bring Cash!

Vendors primarily accept cash. Have small denominations of Georgian Lari ready for easy transactions. Reddit

🕰️ Take Your Time

With so many unique items, you can easily spend hours exploring. Don't rush your treasure hunt! Reddit

🤝 Haggle Politely

Bargaining is part of the experience. Be respectful and friendly when negotiating prices. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vibe

The market is a visual feast! Don't forget your camera to document the eclectic atmosphere. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Dry Bridge Market as a must-visit Tbilisi gem, praising its incredible variety of Soviet memorabilia, art, and antiques. Many highlight the thrill of discovery and the opportunity to find unique souvenirs. While cash is essential and haggling is expected, the overall experience is described as fascinating and well worth the visit.

"One of the best things to do in Georgia really interesting, open every day bit even more selection and vendors at weekends. If you like history, antiques, Soviet stuff, this is the place. Bring cash it's very good."

Jamie NS

"An impressive Market to visit on a Sunday morning with lots of treasures and hidden gems. Must see place! I would definitely return back when in Georgia 🇬🇪"

Mary Demetriou

"Just amazing. You can find old books or whatever antique. Lots of paintings and hand made crafts, scarfs. So much stuff you can spend 2 days here... I didn't even know this place existed if i didn't take a bus going by next this gem. Please visit! If not to buy anything just look at the art"

Aliza

What People Like

Unique Soviet memorabilia
Vast selection of antiques
Local art and crafts

What People Dislike

Need for cash
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dry Bridge Market is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a taxi or a local bus to the Mshrali Khidi (Dry Bridge) area. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the city center, especially if you're exploring Dedaena Park or 9 March Park nearby. Reddit

Yes, the market is situated near Dedaena Park and 9 March Park, offering a pleasant green space to relax. It's also within walking distance of some central Tbilisi areas, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Reddit

From Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), you can take a taxi directly to the Dry Bridge Market. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the city center and then transfer to a local bus or taxi heading towards the market. Reddit

Yes, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are widely used in Tbilisi and can be a convenient way to get to the Dry Bridge Market. Just set your destination to 'Dry Bridge Market' or 'Mshrali Khidi'. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of the market, especially on weekends. It's often more convenient to use public transport or ride-sharing services. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Dry Bridge Market is completely free! You can wander through the stalls and browse to your heart's content without purchasing a ticket. Reddit

The market is open daily from approximately 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, the selection and number of vendors are significantly larger on weekends. Reddit

For the widest array of goods and the most vibrant atmosphere, aim for a weekend morning. The market truly comes alive on Saturdays and Sundays. Reddit

The market is generally open every day, with the exception of January 1st and Orthodox Easter Sunday. Reddit

While some vendors might be willing to hold an item for a short period, there's no formal reservation system. It's best to purchase items you're interested in promptly, especially on busy days. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a huge variety of souvenirs, including Soviet memorabilia, vintage items, handmade crafts, local art, antique jewelry, old books, and unique Georgian artifacts. Reddit

Yes, haggling is a common practice at the Dry Bridge Market. Vendors expect you to negotiate prices, so don't hesitate to offer a price you're comfortable with, but always do so politely. Reddit

It's best to come prepared with enough cash. While some vendors might be flexible, many do not have card facilities. If you see something you love, try to get cash from an ATM beforehand. Reddit

Soviet-era items like medals, old cameras, and books are very popular. Handmade crafts, traditional Georgian items like kantsi (drinking horns), and local art also make great souvenirs. Reddit

Yes, you can find genuine Georgian artifacts and antiques, but it's wise to do some research or ask vendors about the provenance of items if you're looking for something specific and valuable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, taking photos of the stalls and items is fine, and many visitors do so to capture the vibrant atmosphere. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of them or their merchandise. Instagram

Early morning, especially on weekends, offers softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. The bustling activity throughout the day also provides great candid shots. Instagram

The sheer variety of items, the interactions between vendors and shoppers, and the colorful displays create endless photo opportunities. Look for unique Soviet relics, intricate crafts, and expressive faces. Instagram

For casual personal filming, it's usually not an issue. However, if you plan to film for commercial purposes or a documentary, it's advisable to inquire with local authorities or market management beforehand. Instagram

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wider scenes and details. A prime lens can also be useful for low-light situations or creating bokeh. Don't forget extra batteries! Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dry Bridge Market can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a visual feast of interesting objects. Kids might be fascinated by the vintage toys, old cameras, and colorful artwork. It's a great opportunity to spark their imagination and teach them about different historical periods. Remember to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas, especially on weekends. Reddit

Bring snacks and water, as the market can get warm, and there aren't many dedicated food stalls within the market itself. While haggling is part of the experience, it might be more challenging with young children in tow. Focus on the discovery aspect and the joy of finding unique items together. The nearby parks also offer a great space for kids to run around and burn off energy after browsing. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Dry Bridge Market is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers looking for unique souvenirs without breaking the bank. You can find affordable crafts, old books, and interesting trinkets that are far more memorable than mass-produced tourist items. The key is to be patient, browse thoroughly, and be prepared to haggle respectfully for the best prices. Reddit

Prioritize cash to avoid any transaction fees and to have more leverage when negotiating. Visiting on a weekday can sometimes yield better deals as vendors might be more eager to make a sale. Even if you don't buy anything, the experience of exploring the market and observing the diverse array of goods is a rewarding and cost-free activity. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Evolution of Dry Bridge Market

The Dry Bridge Market, or Mshrali Khidi, is more than just a flea market; it's a living museum reflecting Tbilisi's rich and complex history. Its origins trace back to the 1950s when locals began selling their used possessions, a practice that grew organically over the decades. Today, the market sprawls across the Dry Bridge itself, as well as the adjacent Dedaena Park and 9 March Park, creating a sprawling open-air bazaar.

The market's inventory is a direct testament to Georgia's past. You'll find a fascinating array of Soviet-era relics, including military medals, old cameras, propaganda posters, and personal identification documents. These items offer a tangible connection to a bygone era, sparking curiosity and nostalgia for many visitors. Beyond Soviet memorabilia, the market is a treasure trove of antiques, from old coins and maps to vinyl records and unique Georgian artifacts, each piece whispering tales of its previous owners and journeys.

Beyond historical artifacts, the Dry Bridge Market is a vibrant hub for local art and crafts. Stalls are filled with colorful, unframed canvases painted by local artists, often working on-site. You can also discover beautifully crafted feltwork, traditional Georgian kantsi (drinking horns), and the intricate designs of panduri instruments. This blend of history, art, and everyday objects makes the Dry Bridge Market a truly unique and captivating destination for anyone looking to experience the soul of Tbilisi. Reddit

Navigating the Market: Tips for a Successful Shopping Trip

Visiting the Dry Bridge Market can be an exhilarating experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. The most crucial tip from seasoned visitors is to bring cash, preferably in small denominations of Georgian Lari. While some vendors might be open to negotiation, most transactions are cash-based, and having the right currency readily available will make your shopping much smoother. Don't be shy about haggling; it's an expected part of the market culture, but always approach it with a friendly and respectful demeanor. Reddit

Take your time exploring the vast expanse of the market. It's easy to get lost in the sheer volume of items, and you might stumble upon hidden gems if you allow yourself ample time to browse. Weekends, particularly Saturday and Sunday mornings, offer the most extensive selection of vendors and goods, but they also attract the largest crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon when the market is quieter. Reddit

Finally, be observant and polite. While most vendors are welcoming, it's always good practice to ask before taking close-up photos of their merchandise or them personally. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt, and you might just find that perfect, unique souvenir that tells a story of your time in Tbilisi. Instagram

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