Tbilisi
Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asia · Georgia
Did you know?
- It has been destroyed and rebuilt 29 times, yet still retains its charm.
- “Tbili” means warm, a nod to the city’s famous springs.
- A week of unlimited Magti data is listed at 7 lari.
See also
Overview
Georgia’s capital stretches along the Mtkvari River, with warm springs, crooked Old Town houses, and a history of repeated rebuilding. Narrow lanes, baths, fortress views, and a strong food-and-wine culture make it an easy base for exploring the country.
Languages: Georgian
Why go?
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia, lying on the banks of the Mtkvari River. Founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali, it is known for its warm springs (tbili means warm). The Old Town has narrow alleys and crooked houses around courtyards, and the city has been destroyed and rebuilt 29 times but retains its charm.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Climate
Tbilisi has relatively cold winters and hot summers, with a mild micro-climate. Average annual temperature is 12.7°C. January coldest (0.9°C), July hottest (24.4°C). May and June are wettest; January driest. Snow falls 15-25 days per year.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Tbilisi is served by Shota Rustaveli International Airport, 17 km east of city centre. The main railway station is Tbilisi Central Station at Station Square. Bus stations include Station Square, Didube, Avlabari, Ortachala, and Samgori, connecting to various domestic and international destinations.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting around
The metro (1 lari per ride) is efficient for crossing the city, supplemented by buses (1 lari) and marshrutkas. Taxis are affordable (5-10 lari for short trips within the center), or you can walk between many attractions in the compact old town.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Do
Tbilisi has a lively sports scene: FC Dinamo Tbilisi and FC Iberia 1999 play in the Erovnuli Liga at Dinamo Arena and Mikheil Meskhi Stadium respectively. Other activities include visiting the Sulphur Baths in Abanotubani, climbing Narikala Fortress for views, and relaxing in the Botanical Garden.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
When to go
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot (up to 40°C), while winters are cold but less touristy. The Tbilisoba festival in October celebrates the city's harvest.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Food and drink
Georgia is the cradle of wine, and Tbilisi has many wine tasting shops. A night out can cost as little as 10-15 lari in cheaper bars. Also try Laghidze Waters, sweet soda drinks, at the cafe on Aghmashenebeli Avenue. Corner stores sell booze and bread late into the night.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay
Accommodation ranges from budget hostels (dorms from 7-18 lari) like Backpackers Hostel and Envoy Hostel, to mid-range and luxury hotels. Popular areas include Old Town and near Rustaveli Avenue.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Stay safe
Tbilisi is very safe after the Rose Revolution. Police are quick to respond but usually only speak Georgian and Russian. Solo travelers, especially black men, may receive stares. Use company taxis like '009' at night. Emergency numbers: Police and Ambulance 112.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Connect
SIM cards are widely available; Magti offers unlimited data: 7 lari for one week, 28 lari for four weeks with 4G coverage. WiFi is available in some newer establishments but not always reliable.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go next
Online prices for tours vary; bargaining in the old town can get competitive pricing around 2x marshrutka prices. Nearby destinations include Mtskheta, Stepantsminda, and other Georgian towns.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- buy
2nd hand outlet
A huge store of about 200 m² with all sorts of used good, mostly shoes and cloths, but also sports and camping equipment, and even a scooter.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
41 Gradus
Small stylish cocktail bar serving their own creations. Slide the metal door to get downstairs.
Recorded price: Cocktail 15 lari
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Alexander Griboedov Russian State Drama Theatre
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Alexander's Garden
A part of Park April.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Alibi Room
Cheap bar well known (or infamous) among locals, attracts a young crowd and gets packed on Fridays, when things can get a bit rough; so it's not for the faint hearted. '
Recorded price: Chacha 1 lari, beer 2 lari
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Althaus Tea
Nice and cosy café with interesting sublevel. Good during colder times.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Bassiani
A famous underground techno club, possibly one of the best in the whole region—think Berlin/East_Central#Clubs
Recorded price: 30 lari entry (if the bouncer lets you in)
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Bath No. 5
This is the only public bath in this area right at the beginning, follow the neon light. It is definitely worth the experience, so do not miss it. The men's section has a central shower area, a hot pool and a sauna. The women's public section only provides showers and massage, and are probably not worth it. Massage is 10 lari extra. Bring slippers and towel or rent them there for extra cost.
Recorded price: 10 lari men, 6 lari women
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
SIM cards from Magti: 7 GEL for 1 week unlimited data. WiFi available in some cafes.
Culture
Georgian hospitality is legendary; dress modestly when entering churches. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated.
Emergency
Police and Ambulance: 112
Health
Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are adequate but may require cash.
Language
Georgian and Russian are commonly spoken; English less so.
Local transport
Metro costs 1 lari per ride; buses also 1 lari. Taxis should be booked via app or authorized companies to avoid overcharging.
Money
ATMs widely available; many shops and restaurants accept cards, but carry cash for markets and small vendors.
Safety
Tbilisi is very safe; police response is quick. Use company taxis at night. Emergency tel: 112.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; many nationalities get visa-free entry for up to one year. Check current entry requirements before travel.