Tbilisi City & Airport Guide

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Tbilisi old town from the Sulphur Baths up to the Narikala Fortress
Tbilisi old town from the Sulphur Baths up to the Narikala Fortress
Looking over the city from the
Looking over the city from the 'The Best View on Tbilisi' guesthouse
Tbilisi from the Metekhi Virgin Mary Assumption Church
Tbilisi from the Metekhi Virgin Mary Assumption Church
Gudauri ski resort & its wonderful backcountry are just 2hr from Tbilisi
Gudauri ski resort & its wonderful backcountry are just 2hr from Tbilisi
Hotel British House is a great place to stay in Tbilisi
Hotel British House is a great place to stay in Tbilisi
Vakhtang Gorgasali Square is the centre of tourism in Tbilisi & is ruled by local hounds!
Vakhtang Gorgasali Square is the centre of tourism in Tbilisi & is ruled by local hounds!
Khinkali are the nation's dumpling & Tbilisi has loads of good ones
Khinkali are the nation's dumpling & Tbilisi has loads of good ones
Shopping in Tbilisi is fun in the bazaars or open air markets near 9 March Park
Shopping in Tbilisi is fun in the bazaars or open air markets near 9 March Park
Bread from a traditional tone oven bakery is a real treat in Tbilisi
Bread from a traditional tone oven bakery is a real treat in Tbilisi
Tbilisi has some exceptional high-end dining like this from Van Goghi
Tbilisi has some exceptional high-end dining like this from Van Goghi
The domes of the Sulphur Baths  in Tbilisi only hint at what lies beneath!
The domes of the Sulphur Baths in Tbilisi only hint at what lies beneath!
Tbilisi has fine street art & great nightlife
Tbilisi has fine street art & great nightlife
Liberty Square in Tbilisi has its obligatory statue of St George
Liberty Square in Tbilisi has its obligatory statue of St George
Typical Tbilisi streetscape
Typical Tbilisi streetscape
The Clock Tower is classic, quirky Tbilisi
The Clock Tower is classic, quirky Tbilisi
The Mother of Georgia looks out over Tbilisi by day & night
The Mother of Georgia looks out over Tbilisi by day & night
Shopping bargains aplenty from vendors in tiny shops throughout Tbilisi
Shopping bargains aplenty from vendors in tiny shops throughout Tbilisi
Tbilisi has a plethora of quality bars like
Tbilisi has a plethora of quality bars like 'Process'
If you love wine, Tbilisi & its hundreds of wine bars is heaven
If you love wine, Tbilisi & its hundreds of wine bars is heaven
When in Georgia, spend a few nights in Tbilisi
When in Georgia, spend a few nights in Tbilisi

Tbilisi City & Airport Guide

Readers Ratings

Tbilisi

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Tbilisi5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews
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Ski Safari Goderdzi Svaneti Cat skiing Georgia Vagabond Adventures

Nearby Ski Resorts

Bakuriani
Gudauri

Tbilisi

Tbilisi is one of the best tourist cities in the world. The funtastic gateway to the eastern half of Georgia is worthy of a few nights stay on any visit to this intriguing nation and may indeed be the highlight of one's journey. The capital of Georgia is easy to get around, has loads of history, a meandering cluster of buildings & lanes perfect for wandering in the old town, some truly spectacular restaurants & bars, groovy boutique hotels & charming guesthouses. In a country that can be challenging at times, Tbilisi is a surprising oasis of the best of everything with a nicely scuffed edge!

Check out the Tbilisi city map below.

Tbilisi City Map
Tbilisi City Map

The largest ski resort in the country, Gudauri, is just a 2hr drive from Tbilisi, however the city can be used as a starting point or access to most of the country. From a skier perspective, the furthest point likely to be travelled is to Mestia (Tetnuldi et al) in Svaneti, an 8-hour drive on a good day (until they finish the new highway between Tbilisi & Kutaisi anyway)!

Things to do in Tbilisi

Aside from using Tbilisi as the gateway to go skiing & snowboarding throughout the country, the city itself is full of sights, tastes, smells & sounds that should be sampled before or after being in the mountains.

Stay & Wander

Sample life in the city by staying in the older districts of Tbilisi (Dzveli Tbilisi) between the river and the hills to the west topped by the fortress & the super-weird Mtatsminda Park Amusement Park. In parts shiny and new, but mostly crumbling and rustic, the old city is a chaotic mix of cobbled streets, awkward footpaths, horn tooting traffic, traditional tone bakeries, fantastic restaurants, elegant houses, incredible wine bars and surprises around every corner.

From our observations, dogs rule the lower city, cats reign supreme in the upper city. Most are quite friendly but perhaps wash your hands after scruffling them.

The city has several interesting outdoor markets that may interest visitors, with the best of them being the Art & Antiques Market, & Dry Bridge Flea market in and around the 9 March Park on the river. Elsewhere, shopaholics will find all sorts of local trinkets & clothing in everything from street stalls, tiny 'hole in the wall shops', to massive underground bazaars.

Tbilisi's looming Narikala Fortress looks better from below than it is from above, but having been first established in the 4th century, it is worth a quick wander. Being up there when the bells are rung provides some atmosphere to the crumbling ruin. Walk from the citadel up to the crest of the Sololaki hills past the gondola station and to the 20m tall “Mother of Georgia” monument which overlooks the city. Descend the stairs below and emerge in the Old town laneways where one can wander aimlessly for hours and find the city's best bars.

Eat

Sample all the wonderful food that this city has to offer. So much more than the kachipuri (a tasty bread ‘boat’ with a soft salty cheese & egg open filling) that so often symbolises Georgian cuisine. From a spicy chicken shwarma at a street vendor, traditional Georgian classics (khinkali, okhajuri, lobia etc…) from a multitude of affordable eateries, fabulous bread baked (shotis puri, k’ada, lobiani) from tone (ton-AY) ovens served out of tiny windows, or contemporary cuisine serving local ingredients with a modern spin at numerous, fabulous restaurants.

Best Restaurants. We stumbled upon some absolutely fabulous restaurants in Tbilisi, but by far the best was the newly opened (Feb 2023) Van Goghi restaurant in Mikhail Zandukeli St (Mtitsminda District). The food, cocktails, service and atmosphere were brilliant. And even though the neighbours hate it, we enjoyed. Near the Sulphur Baths, the unassuming Odo’s House serves up top quality local nosh and there is a very well stocked wine bar in the cellar below, which also happens to have the most interesting toilet in Tbilisi. Just open the cupboard door!

Drink

Sample cha cha (local strong spirit equivalent to a rakia, grappa or moonshine!) from street vendors, under the shelf at the local bakery or from high-end bars. From smooth drinking fruit , flower & chocolate flavoured varieties to clear, high strength fire water, cha cha is cheap and cheerful. It is also used as a base in many local cocktails.

Wine, wine and more wine. As the cradle of wine making, Georgian wine is amongst the greatest in the world. Opportunities to sample it in Tbilisi are many and varied. Cool wine bars & cafes are dotted throughout the city.

Best bar districts. The bars on Shalva Dadiani & Lado Asatiani streets in Old Tbilisi Rudeboy, Process (for cha cha-based cocktails, previously called EZO we think), Black Dog, Abragi (for Georgian craft beers) are all super. UK ex-pats will feel comfortable in the nearby, convivial Tipsy Bee Bar.

Where is Tbilisi Georgia ?

Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia and is located in the central east of the country. The gateway airport is Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport (TBS). Flights converge from most of Europe, the Middle East & Central Asia. Inside the airport terminal, the prices for food & beverage is absolutely outrageous. Outside the terminal, modern buses with very cheap fares will get you to the centre of the city efficiently. Alternatively if on a tour, one will likely be met & picked up by a driver. Anyone going independently can use our local tour partners listed below or utilise the very handy GoTrip app to book a driver. We have used GoTrip often and found it to be trouble-free, but it does require paying the driver in cash. If you can work out how the use the metro train in Tbilisi, good luck. We couldn't work out how to get a ticket without paying out loads for a pass. Thankfully it is fun to walk everywhere in the city centre

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Tbilisi Accommodation

There so many great places to stay in Tbilisi that it is difficult to articulate in a few words. The best way is to simply define the best areas to stay in and point you in the direction of a few gems we came across. One of our favourite finds was the Hotel British House near the Rustaveli district. Anything in the 'old town' district bounded by Baratashvili St in the north, the river to the east, the fortress & hills to the south and Freedom Square to the west will be full of character & intrigue. Of course there are also some lux hotel offerings along Rustaveli Ave, but why stay in them when one could do it cheap & interesting in a quirky local guesthouse overlooking the city. The are loads of exceptional places to stay elsewhere in the city too but try not to stray too far from the old town & river, as it has the most atmosphere. An exception to try is this ..... Unfound Door Design Hotel!

Search & book here for all Tbilisi accommodation.

More Reasons to Visit Tbilisi

Are you already in Georgia? Are you flying into or out of Tbilisi airport? Then why wouldn't you spend a few days and nights exploring this fantastic city. It is a phenomenal way to start &/or finish a trip to Georgia. In fact we think it is a highlight of any trip Georgian ski holiday.

Review

The Powderhounds visited Tbilisi several times in February & March 2023. We enjoyed its wonderful atmosphere, chaotic traffic, pedestrian friendly old town, fabulous food and drink, shopping, historic sites, plus eclectic mix of 'old world' Grand Hotels & contemporary accommodation. It is up there with the best tourist cities in the world. Click on the review link in the left column (or top of the page if on a mobile) to read the latest inciteful & droll postulations!

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Tours near Tbilisi

Safari (Road Trip) Tours

Goderdzi & Svaneti Ski Safari
PRIVATE FREERIDE POWDER & CAT SKIING TOUR
9 Days | 8 Nights | 6 Ski Days
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
Combine wild adventure & luxurious comfort in the 2 snowiest & remote regions of Georgia on a 9-day ski safari. World-class freeriding, cat skiing, ancient culture & delicious cuisine await you in the Adjara & Svaneti regions. Private groups only. Get your crew together & book for your best dates & duration....
Price p/p Price based on twin-share, 9-day tour with a minimum of 8 people
Base/invoice currency is in USD$ inc. taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 2,400
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Svaneti Ski Tour
PRIVATE FREERIDE POWDER & SKI TOURING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Ski Days
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Ski through medieval villages surrounded by 5,000m peaks. Experience thundering glaciers, roaring celebrations & untracked powder. This is adventure Svan-style. Combining lift access & ski-touring, this tour is for private solos, couples & groups only. Get your crew together & book for your best dates & duration ....
Price p/p Price based on twin-share, 8-day tour with a minimum of 8 people
Base/invoice currency is in USD$ inc. taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 1,900
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Single-Base, Multi-Ski-Area Tours

Svaneti Freeride Powder Adventure Tour
GUIDED FREERIDE ADVENTURE, CAT & HELI-SKIING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6+ Ski Days
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
One week of high adventure chasing the best freeride lines & powder across the Svaneti in Georgia, including Tetnuldi. Guided by a team of fun-loving locals that know all the secrets to having a great time in the region; both on & off the snow. Get a crew together & choose your best dates & duration.
Price p/p From price based on an 8-day tour with a group of 3 people
Base/invoice currency is in EUR inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 1,482
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Single-Base, Single-Ski-Area Tours

Gudauri Guided Freeride Day
GUIDED FREERIDE POWDER SKI TOUR
1 Day Fully Guided Skiing/Snowboarding
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Be guided to the best snow & terrain in Gudauri ski resort with a professional local guide on this fully customised private off-piste ski tour. Use the ski lifts to be shown amazing freeride powder in Gudauri's vast off-piste terrain. Go solo or get a group together & book in for your best dates & duration....
Price p/p Price based per person on a 1-day tour with 4 people in group
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc. taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 83
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Gudauri Unleashed Freeride Tour Package
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY SKIING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Ski Days
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
Go beyond the boundaries in Gudauri with an 8-day freeriding & ski touring trip. Stay in comfortable ski-in-ski-out accommodation, enjoy hassle-free transportation, and let experienced guides lead you through the hidden gems of Gudauri’s backcountry. Book for your solo, couple or group's best dates & duration ...
Price p/p Based on twin-share, 8-day, 7-night package in a private group of 8 people
Base/invoice currency is in USD$ inc. taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 1,990
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Backcountry Skiing Tours

Gudauri Backcountry Ski Tour
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY SKI TOUR
1 Day Fully Guided Skiing/Snowboarding
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Be guided to the best backcountry snow & terrain near Gudauri & Kazbegi with a professional local guide on this fully customised private backcountry day ski tour. Includes hotel pick-up & drop-off, plus transport to/from the destination. Go solo or get a group together & book in for your best dates & duration....
Price p/p Price based per person on a 1-day tour with full group of 4 people
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc. taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 88
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Cat Ski & Tour Adjara
SNOWCAT ASSISTED SKI TOURING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Days Snowcat Supported Ski Touring
Ability: Expert
Perfect backcountry mix of snowcat supported ski touring in the wilds of Adjara Georgia whilst staying in an alpine hut. Packages incl. airport transfers & ground transport, 7 nights lodging, all meals, guides & 6 days of cat-supported ski-touring in these very snowy mountains. Get a group together or go solo in March.
Price p/p From price based on 7 nights in a 4-share room in a cosy mountain hut, full board, transfers, 6 days guided snowcat supported ski touring
Base/invoice currency is in Euro ex taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 2,251
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Cat Ski & Tour Bakhmaro
SNOWCAT ASSISTED SKI TOURING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Days Snowcat Supported Ski Touring
Ability: Advanced to Expert
The perfect backcountry mix of snowcat supported ski touring in Bakhmaro Georgia includes airport transfers & ground transport, 7 nights accommodation, all meals, guides & 6 days of snowcat supported ski touring. Join a fixed date tour in December or March ...
Price p/p From price based on 7 nights in a twin share room, full board, transfers, 6 days guided snowcat supported ski touring
Base/invoice currency is in Euro ex taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 2,251
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Heli Skiing Tours

Svaneti Heli Skiing Packages
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY HELISKIING SVANETI
7 Days | 5.5 Heliski Days
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Heliski the amazing terrain of the Svaneti in places that have never been touched by ski or snowboard. Limitless new powder lines in the Greater Caucasus of Georgia with wonderful local guides, lodging & hospitality in beautiful Mestia. Join a 'fixed date' tour or customise your own private heliskiing adventure ....
Price p/p From price based on twin share on a 7-day package.
Base/invoice currency is in EUR incl taxes.
Custom dates for groups of 6 or more only
USD 10,979
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Cat Skiing Tours

Cat Skiing Bakhmaro
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY CAT SKIING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Days Cat Skiing
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Ultimate European cat-skiing experience at Bakhmaro Georgia, with amazing snow, terrain, food & lodging. Includes transfers, 7 nights lodging, all meals plus 6 days of guided cat skiing in the snowiest part of the Caucasus. Join a fixed date tour as a group or solo from December to late March or go private ....
Price p/p From price based on 7 nights twin-share in low season.
Base/invoice currency is in Euro ex taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 3,074
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Catski Wolfsbed Hut Adjara
GUIDED CAT SKIING FOR EXPERTS
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Days Cat Skiing
Ability: Expert
A true European powder cat skiing adventure, Catski Wolfsbed Hut Adjara in Georgia explores expert only terrain near the famous Bakhmaro. Tour includes transfers, 7 nights lodging in a ski-in ski-out alpine hut, all meals plus 6 days of guided cat skiing in the snowiest part of the Caucasus. Join as a group or solo ...
Price p/p From price based on transfers, 7 nights in Wolfsbed Hut, all meals & 6 days guided cat skiing in low season.
Base/invoice currency is in Euro ex taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 2,745
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Cat Skiing Bakhmaro Women's Tour
PRIVATE WOMEN ONLY GUIDED CAT SKIING
8 Days | 7 Nights | 6 Cat Ski Days
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Ultimate European women-only cat-skiing adventure in the snowiest parts of the Caucasus. Cat skiing in Bakhmaro Georgia includes all transfers, 7 nights accommodation in a new lodge, all meals plus 6 days of cat skiing in an all female group. Get your own group group together for a custom tour on your best dates ......
Price p/p From price based on twin share room in low season.
Base/invoice currency is in Euro ex taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 3,074
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