Old Tbilisi - A view of a city with a hill in the background
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Old Tbilisi

4.6
·491k reviews·Tbilisi, Georgia

Wander through ancient streets, marvel at colorful balconies, and soak in therapeutic sulfur baths in Tbilisi's historic heart.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Old Tbilisi - A view of a city with a hill in the background

Old Tbilisi

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wander through ancient streets, marvel at colorful balconies, and soak in therapeutic sulfur baths in Tbilisi's historic heart.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Old Tbilisi is a magical maze of history, charm, and unforgettable experiences."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Cobblestone streets and hills! Prioritize comfort for exploring Old Tbilisi's charm.

📸 Capture Golden Hour

The light is stunning for photos in the early morning or late afternoon. Don't miss it!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress

Overlooking Old Tbilisi

Ancient fortress offering panoramic city views. Explore its ramparts and soak in the history.

Abanotubani Sulfur Baths

Abanotubani Sulfur Baths

Old Town

Iconic domed bathhouses. Experience a traditional sulfur bath for a unique cultural immersion.

Bridge of Peace

Bridge of Peace

Across Mtkvari River

Modern pedestrian bridge with stunning architecture. Beautifully lit at night, it's a striking contrast to the old town.

Shardeni Street

Shardeni Street

Old Town

Bustling street filled with cafes, bars, and art galleries. Perfect for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cobblestones

Tbilisi's Old Town is a maze of charming, winding streets. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the historic architecture and hidden courtyards. Be prepared for inclines and uneven surfaces as you wander through this picturesque district.

Timing is Key for Views

To capture the best photos and avoid peak crowds, aim to explore Old Tbilisi early in the morning or during the golden hour before sunset. This allows for a more serene experience and stunning light for your pictures.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Golden hour evenings
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Any tips to have an enjoyable stay in Tbilisi, Georgia?

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Cobblestone streets and hills! Prioritize comfort for exploring Old Tbilisi's charm. Reddit

📸 Capture Golden Hour

The light is stunning for photos in the early morning or late afternoon. Don't miss it!

reddit.com

tips when you’re visiting tbilisi as a tourist

reddit.com

Suggestions appreciated on things to do, eat or see around Old Town

🛀 Book Sulfur Baths Ahead

Popular spots fill up fast. Book your traditional sulfur bath experience in advance. Reddit

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

Wander the narrow alleys; you'll discover hidden gems and local life. It's part of the magic!

reddit.com

Travelling Georgia, tips and advice!

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

Cobblestone streets and hills! Prioritize comfort for exploring Old Tbilisi's charm. Reddit

📸 Capture Golden Hour

The light is stunning for photos in the early morning or late afternoon. Don't miss it!

🛀 Book Sulfur Baths Ahead

Popular spots fill up fast. Book your traditional sulfur bath experience in advance. Reddit

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

Wander the narrow alleys; you'll discover hidden gems and local life. It's part of the magic!

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Old Tbilisi for its breathtaking beauty, historic charm, and unique cultural experiences, especially the iconic sulfur baths and panoramic views from Narikala Fortress. The labyrinthine streets and vibrant atmosphere are a major draw, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Some find the cobblestone streets challenging for mobility, and occasional crowds can detract from the serene experience.

What People Like

Stunning historic architecture
Panoramic city views
Unique sulfur bath experience

What People Dislike

Uneven cobblestone streets
Crowded areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), you can take a taxi (around 30-40 GEL) or public bus #337 to the city center. From there, it's a short ride or walk to Old Tbilisi. Many visitors find taxis convenient for direct access to their accommodation in the Old Town. Reddit

Yes, Old Tbilisi is best explored on foot. The historic center is compact, but be prepared for steep inclines and uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Reddit

Walking is the primary and most enjoyable way to see Old Tbilisi. For longer distances or to reach higher points like Narikala Fortress, you can use the cable car or taxis. Reddit

Parking in Old Tbilisi is very limited and often restricted. It's highly recommended to rely on public transport, taxis, or simply walk once you're in the vicinity. If you have a rental car, consider parking it further out and walking in. Reddit

Yes, ride-sharing apps like Bolt are widely available and a convenient way to get to and from Old Tbilisi, especially if you're coming from other parts of the city. They are generally more affordable than traditional taxis. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old Tbilisi itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and admire the architecture. Reddit

Narikala Fortress is free to enter. You can explore its grounds and enjoy the views without any admission fee. Reddit

Prices for the sulfur baths vary depending on the bathhouse and whether you book a private room or a communal one. Expect to pay anywhere from 30-100 GEL per hour for a private room. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Reddit

Most sulfur bathhouses in Abanotubani operate 24/7 or have very extended hours, often until late at night. It's always best to check the specific hours of the bathhouse you wish to visit. Reddit

Yes, there is a small fee to use the cable car that ascends to Narikala Fortress. You can purchase tickets at the station. The ride offers great views of the city. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include Narikala Fortress for panoramic views, the historic Abanotubani sulfur baths, the Bridge of Peace for modern contrast, and the charming streets of Shardeni. Don't miss the Holy Trinity Cathedral nearby. Reddit

For a truly authentic experience, book a private room in one of the historic bathhouses in Abanotubani. Many offer traditional scrubbing services. Remember to stay hydrated and enjoy the therapeutic waters. Reddit

Absolutely! Narikala Fortress offers the most iconic panoramic views. The area around the Mother of Georgia statue also provides excellent vantage points. The Bridge of Peace is also great for cityscapes, especially at night. Reddit

You'll find traditional Georgian crafts, including enamel jewelry, felt items, spices, wine, and Chacha (Georgian grape brandy). Look for local artisan shops for unique finds. Reddit

Old Tbilisi is generally considered safe for solo travelers, even at night. However, like any tourist area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit, deserted alleys. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You must try Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), Khinkali (dumplings), Mtsvadi (Georgian BBQ), and Pkhali (vegetable pâtés). Pair them with Georgian wine for an authentic experience. Reddit

Shardeni Street and its surrounding alleys are packed with restaurants offering traditional Georgian cuisine. Look for places with outdoor seating to enjoy the atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, Georgian cuisine has many naturally vegetarian and vegan dishes like Pkhali, Lobiani (bean-filled bread), and various vegetable stews and salads. Reddit

A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Old Tbilisi can cost around 30-50 GEL per person, including drinks. Budget-friendly options and street food are also available. Reddit

Absolutely! Old Tbilisi is dotted with charming cafes offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks. Shardeni Street is a great place to start your search. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Narikala Fortress offers stunning panoramic city views. The colorful balconies, narrow cobblestone streets, and the sulfur bath domes in Abanotubani are also highly photogenic. The Bridge of Peace is great for modern architectural shots. Reddit

The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset provides the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's still great for capturing the vibrant colors of the buildings. Reddit

While specific photography tours might be less common, many local guides can tailor a walking tour to focus on the most photogenic spots. Ask your hotel or check local tour operator websites. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide cityscapes and street details. A wide-angle lens is great for the narrow streets and fortress views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots, especially of the Bridge of Peace at night. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near historical sites in Georgia. It's best to check with local authorities or your accommodation for the most current regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Tbilisi offers a sense of adventure for families. The cable car ride up to Narikala Fortress is a hit with kids, offering exciting views and a fun journey. Exploring the fortress itself can feel like a real-life quest. The sulfur baths can be a unique experience, though it's best to opt for a private room for family comfort and check age restrictions.

Keep little legs happy by breaking up walks with stops at charming cafes for khachapuri (cheese bread) or ice cream. The Bridge of Peace is also a fun, modern structure for kids to explore. Consider a guided tour that's geared towards families to keep them engaged with stories and history. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Old Tbilisi is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, offering a rich cultural experience and a generally safe environment. The compact nature of the Old Town makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing for spontaneous discoveries. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals in cafes or guesthouses; Georgians are known for their hospitality.

Consider joining a free walking tour to get acquainted with the area and meet other travelers. For a truly local experience, try a traditional sulfur bath – it's a great way to relax and reflect on your adventures. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, but overall, you should feel quite secure exploring the charming streets. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Heart: Old Tbilisi

Old Tbilisi, also known as the Kala district, is the soul of the city, a captivating labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, colorful wooden balconies, and ancient churches. It's a place where history whispers from every cobblestone and architectural style from medieval to Art Nouveau intertwines. The area is characterized by its unique blend of Georgian, Persian, and Ottoman influences, evident in the domed sulfur bathhouses and the intricate carvings on building facades. Wandering through these streets is like stepping back in time, with hidden courtyards, small artisan shops, and traditional wine cellars waiting to be discovered. Reddit

Key landmarks like the Narikala Fortress, perched high above the city, offer breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Tbilisi's strategic past. Below, the Abanotubani district is famous for its distinctive brick domes, marking the location of natural sulfur springs that have been used for centuries for therapeutic baths. The Bridge of Peace, a modern architectural marvel, provides a striking contrast to the historic surroundings, connecting the Old Town with the Rike Park. Exploring Old Tbilisi is an immersive experience, best done on foot to truly appreciate its charm and discover its many secrets. Reddit

For visitors, the best approach is to simply get lost. Allow yourself to wander without a strict itinerary, letting curiosity guide you. You'll stumble upon charming cafes, local eateries serving delicious Georgian cuisine, and unexpected vistas. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and hilly. The atmosphere is particularly magical during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the city is bathed in a warm, ethereal light, perfect for photography. Reddit

The Therapeutic Waters: Abanotubani Sulfur Baths

The Abanotubani district is one of Old Tbilisi's most iconic and historically significant areas, renowned for its natural sulfur springs and traditional bathhouses. These bathhouses, characterized by their distinctive domed roofs, have been a cornerstone of Tbilisi's culture for centuries, offering a unique blend of relaxation, healing, and social gathering. The water, rich in sulfur, is believed to have therapeutic properties, beneficial for skin conditions, joint pain, and overall well-being. Reddit

Visitors can choose from a range of bathhouses, from more luxurious private rooms to more basic communal facilities. A typical experience involves soaking in the warm sulfurous water, followed by a vigorous scrub (kisa) performed by an attendant, which exfoliates the skin. Many visitors describe the experience as invigorating and deeply relaxing, a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic Tbilisi experience. It's advisable to book your preferred bathhouse and time slot in advance, especially during peak season, as popular establishments can fill up quickly. Reddit

When visiting Abanotubani, take time to admire the unique architecture of the bathhouses and the surrounding old town. The area is also home to the Leghvtakhevi waterfall, adding to the picturesque charm. Remember to stay hydrated before and after your bath, and be prepared for the distinct sulfurous smell, which is a natural part of the experience. Reddit

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