About Tbilisi

Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus is the warm and hospitable metropolis of Tbilisi. The city, nearly as old as the snow-capped beauties that surround it, never fails to impress visitors with its auspicious and unmistakable charm.

With more than 1.5 million inhabitants, Tbilisi is the largest city in Georgia, evidenced by its fervent construction efforts: rapidly developing residential complexes, shopping malls and entertainment centers have burst upon the scene and now intermingle with the city’s enduring architecture of old. Tbilisi hotels now cater to every type of budget as the city continues to attract a growing number of foreign investors, businessmen and tourists.

Attractions

Old Town

Old Town Tbilisi is a neighborhood flavored with hospitality and warmth, offering the simple delights of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval fortresses and caravanserais, not to mention the aroma of freshly baked Georgian shotis puri bread. Besides, where else could you find an Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic and Catholic church, a Jewish synagogue and a mosque for both Sunnis and Shiites all located within a five minutes’ walk from each other?

Narikala Fortress is the ultimate symbol of Old Town Tbilisi. This 4th-century fortress, perched atop a hill, was the guardian of the city for centuries, having survived many invasions and attacks. Narikala was rebuilt and restored several times and has existed in its current condition since the 17th century, when King Rostam restored it after the Turco-Persian Wars.

Museums

Plunge into the history, lifestyle and traditions of Georgia at one of its many worthwhile Tbilisi museums:

• The Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia holds the nation’s most impressive archaeological findings, which chronologically follow the development of Georgia from the Bronze Age up to the 20th century. Of special note are a permanent treasury exhibition of Georgian gold, coins and jewelry, and skull fossils discovered at the archaeological site in Dmanisi.
• Both the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA Tbilisi) and the National Gallery of Georgia will delight the artsy tourist with fabulous masterpieces from world-renowned Georgian and foreign painters.
• The Open-Air Museum of Ethnography provides models of traditional homes from each region of Georgia, plus interesting hands-on exhibits. A great option in good weather, it provides learning in a gorgeous outdoor environment.

Parks

Tbilisi weather is pleasant for much of the year, and thankfully Georgia’s capital offers plenty of outdoor activities, most notably a smattering of lovely parks.

Turtle Lake remains a local favorite. Relax under leafy green canopies, ponder life as you swim and sunbathe on its beaches, or stretch your legs with a walk or jog around the lake. Amenities include cafes, playgrounds and sports facilities.

The spacious Vake Park is another beloved spot, perfect for families with children or those seeking some peace and quiet. Within the park lie the Open Air Museum of Ethnography, World War II Memorial, a mini-carnival and abundant greenery.

Spoken Languages in Tbilisi

The state language of Georgia is Georgian, considered to be one of the oldest languages in the world. Its original script, consonant-heavy words and status as one of the most unique languages on earth further add to its beauty and mystique.

Georgian is widely spoken on the streets of Tbilisi. Pronunciation of this language is a challenge (thanks to those consonant-heavy words), but many young people can speak English very well, while older generations can freely communicate in Russian. Tbilisi is a multinational and multilingual city – home to many expats, you can easily find foreign language clubs and meetings for language exchange. If you wish to feel like a local and endear yourself to the Georgian people, we advise you to learn several words in Georgian, such as gamarjoba (hello) and madloba (thank you).

Is Tbilisi Safe?

Tbilisi is a warm and welcoming city, and visitors overwhelmingly report feeling safe on its streets. You can freely explore the city any time of day or evening. Tbilisi is equally safe at night, as police patrol the streets 24/7. Night owls will appreciate the illuminated Bridge of Peace, a wide choice of cosy cafes that operate well into the evening and the lively Tbilisi nightlife found at countless bars and clubs.

Not only is it safe to travel to Tbilisi, you’ll be greeted by some of the most kind-hearted people you’ve met. Once you’ve visited, you’ll understand why Georgians are renowned for their hospitality. Citizens welcome you with a warm smile, are quick to offer help and will often even accompany lost travelers to the right destination. Whether traveling alone or with your family and friends, you can be confident that peace, friendship and safety await you in Georgia’s warm and welcoming capital.

If the Tbilisi Travel Guide has piqued your interest in Georgia, keep reading to get tips for planning your upcoming vacation or check out our most popular Georgia tours.