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The capital of the country of Georgia, Tbilisi lies on the Mtvari River and is protected on three sides by mountains. Although Georgia borders the enormous country of Russia, it is very difficult to pass through due to the underlying tensions between the two countries. The climate of Tbilisi is relatively mild and this city has a reputation for being cosmopolitan and lively. Filled with cobblestone side streets, small parks, and red-tiled buildings, Tbilisi is a unique experience. A very multicultural city, this capital of the Republic of Georgia is home to over 100 different ethnic groups. Georgian is the primary language of Georgia, which is also spoken in Iran, Turkey, and parts of Russia. Don’t wait- book your exciting visit to Tbilisi with cheap student airfare today!

Tbilisi Pictures

Things to do in Tbilisi

With much history and monuments to view a bit of the city’s past, Tbilisi will keep you entranced in the sites and sounds of Georgia. The main area of attraction in the city is Rustavelis Gamziri, which is complete with beautiful churches, government buildings, hotels for accommodation, and an opera house from 1896. As a result of the civil conflicts in the 90’s, a few burned buildings remain as a reminder of the devastation. Another thing to check out is the Janashia Museum of Georgia, with the collections of national history and archaeology in addition to gold and silver ancient metalwork. Check out the recently restored “Old Town”, south of the river, where the new and the old are linked by an extremely large square- Freedom Square. The Narikala Fort has great panoramic views of the city. Also, the State Art Museum is located here, where you can check out interesting metalwork exhibits. One thing you must do when traveling to Tbilisi is to take a bath in the Sulfur Baths, which also offers massages. For another great view of the city, venture up to Mtatsminda Park, located on the Holy mountain and symbol of Tbilisi.

Nightlife in Tbilisi

With Georgia’s reputation being the cradle of wine, the dining and nightlife of Tbilisi is centered around this culture, which also includes bars and nightclubs. One popular nightclub located in Old Town is Zen, two floors filled with young people dancing and having a great time. On Fridays and Saturdays, The Night Office has some of the best Georgian DJs and generally spins house, trance, and club music. The Tunnel Club is located near the botanical garden in Tbilisi and is a great weekend hotspot for nightlife. Another nightclub worth checking out is the Noa Noa, which hosts both discotheques as well as programs nightly. For a quiet night out on the town, take a stroll down Rustaveli Street, where you can enjoy illuminated buildings and the dancing fountain displays.

Dining in Tbilisi

The cuisine of Georgia is very unique and different among each of the regions, each of these being represented in Tbilisi. There are several bakeries scattered about the city, baking fresh bread and cheese pie (khachapuri). Although there are several delicious eateries throughout the city, many Georgians love their own home cooking and tend to cook enough for a feast. Wine and vodka is a large part of the meal as well, whether it be lunch or dinner. A few recommended restaurants in which you can sample a taste of traditional Georgian cuisine include Tamada, Dzveli Saxli, Tsisqvili, and Kopala (amazing views). Khinkali, a delicious traditional restaurant, is named after a meat dumpling with a doughy dollop on the top. Try the Chicken Tabak at Au Sans Souci, a delicious specialty. Aside from traditional meals, Tbilisi also has other types of cuisine, such as European, Italian, and Asian.

Shopping in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has many art galleries, souvenir shops, and open air markets that will satisfy your every shopping need. Gold and most jewelry are usually very inexpensive in Georgia, with the quality of the jewels very high. Many Georgian artists are famous for their artwork and these can be purchased all over the city. Georgians love their wine, so one of the best souvenirs you can purchase is a nice bottle, or the unique cognac. The Dry Bridge flea market sells just about anything and everything, focusing mostly on antiques. If you have run out of reading material, a great place to stop is Prospero’s Books, which has many novels written in English and a variety of useful travel guides, as well as a small outdoor cafe perfect for reading.

Tbilisi Travel Tips

• Tbilisi is pronounced with an almost silent ‘t’, so the literal sound of it is “bill-EE-see”, not “tib-LEE-see”.
• When possible, avoid speaking with the locals about Russia, because this can be a sensitive subject as the relationships are very weak.
• When crossing the streets in Tbilisi (often about 8 lanes), be very careful because the drivers do not usually stop for pedestrians and like to speed by.