Tbilisi sights

There are many cities in the world that are recommended for tourists to visit, and one of them is Tbilisi. Tour guides assure that despite its size and abundance of attractions, you can visit all the landmarks in just a couple of days. This is because they are located very close to each other within the city. However, locals claim that two days is not enough to truly get to know the Georgian capital. It captivates travelers from the first moment, and to explore its main attractions, you would need at least two weeks. We will try to help you quickly find the most interesting places in Tbilisi by offering a unique list of tourist landmarks.

Parks and Lakes

The abundance of greenery is dictated by the hot climate - parks and squares are popular places for seeking shade from the generous sun.

Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is located within the old city, not far from Narikala Fortress. It may be smaller in size compared to the garden in Batumi, but it is still worth a visit as it is home to over 3,000 unique plants. Harmoniously arranged, they create beautiful landscapes that visitors love to capture in photos.

Mtatsminda Park

Mtatsminda Park is a great place to visit with children as it offers a wide variety of exciting attractions, including a large Ferris wheel. Since the park is located on the hill of the same name, you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of Tbilisi from the height of the Ferris wheel.

Rike Park

This park is a pleasant destination throughout the year. In the summer, it is adorned with greenery, fountains, and lush lawns, making it a favorite spot for both visitors and locals.

People usually take leisurely walks along the alleys, relax, and enjoy the shady coolness. If desired, you can take a ride on the cable car from the park directly to the Botanical Garden and Narikala Fortress.

Turtle Lake

In the past, Turtle Lake was home to numerous turtles, hence the name of the reservoir. The lake is surrounded by dense green forests from all sides, providing a cool and comfortable atmosphere. It is a popular spot for both adults and children, as there are many activities available. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, rent a catamaran, use the sports and playgrounds, or go for a run on the specially equipped jogging track.

Graceful Bridges

Tbilisi is traversed by the Kura River, which has led to the construction of numerous bridges and footbridges that add charm to the city's architecture. Let's explore some of the most interesting ones.

Dry Bridge Flea Market

The atmosphere at the "Dry Bridge" flea market is reminiscent of Kyiv's Andriyivskyy Descent. It attracts many visitors, and you can find unique antiquities and artwork there. However, it may take some time and effort to find something truly valuable.

Bridge of Peace

This bridge connects the old part of the city with the newer neighborhoods and is located near the sulfur baths. Illuminated beautifully at night and equally impressive during the day, the Bridge of Peace is a true symbol of Tbilisi. It is known for periodically transmitting messages using Morse code, which include elements from the periodic table found in the human body.

Nikolay Baratashvili Bridge

One of the oldest bridges in the city, it captivates visitors with life-size human figures. Positioned on both sides of the bridge, they appear to be attempting to jump off the bridge while engaging in friendly conversation. Visitors love taking photos next to these figures, as they create lively and authentic moments.

Streets and Avenues

The streets of Old Tbilisi themselves resemble a museum, where you can wander for hours, observing the clusters of historic houses and peeking into small courtyards.

Kote, Shardeni, Erekle II Streets, and Others

These streets always exude a friendly and joyful atmosphere. As you stroll through this part of the city, you can sit at a table in a cozy café and taste delicious local wine or enjoy Georgian and European cuisine.

Rustaveli Avenue

Rustaveli Avenue deserves at least half a day of exploration. It is the main street of Tbilisi, and it is home to numerous major landmarks, including:

• Georgian Parliament
• Vorontsov Palace
• Tbilisi Gymnasium
• Opera and Ballet Theater

Agmashenebeli Avenue

Agmashenebeli Avenue is the most beautiful avenue in the city, and its main feature is the charming two-story buildings on its sides. It is a pedestrian-friendly zone with numerous cafes, illuminations, and greenery. Walking along this street is a delightful experience for tourists who want to relax, take unique photos, and savor authentic Georgian wine.

Museums and Memorials

Tbilisi is a place where modernity and antiquity intertwine in a marvelous way. That's why the city is rich in historical monuments that remind both residents and visitors of its historical past.

Monument of the History of Georgia

The Monument of the History of Georgia was designed by Zurab Tsereteli and erected in 2003. Located on a small hill, the monument consists of 16 large columns depicting significant historical figures and events for Georgia. The grandeur of the structure is simply mesmerizing, making it a must-visit for every tourist.

National Museum of Georgia

Skipping the National Museum of Georgia is simply impossible, as it is located on one of the central streets of Tbilisi - Shota Rustaveli Avenue.

In addition to the usual artifacts from ancient excavations, you can see antique clothing, weapons, Georgian currency, a hall dedicated to the Soviet occupation, and a vast collection of authentic skulls. The guided tour usually takes about 3 hours.

Open-Air Ethnographic Museum

You can spend hours exploring this museum, observing the buildings and streets of rural Georgia. Visitors can see how Georgians lived and continue to live in different regions of their country, learn about the traditional winemaking process, and take many unique photos.

The museum is located near the Turtle Lake.

Museum near the Sulfur Baths

In Tbilisi, you can visit the old baths, which operate on sulfur springs - they are themselves a vibrant attraction and a symbol of the city. Near the baths, there is a monastery where a museum is located.

From a distance, this place resembles a park or a small square. However, guided tours with experienced guides are also conducted there, so it is definitely worth exploring this attraction.

Theatres

Tbilisi is home to numerous theaters that showcase the vibrant arts and cultural scene of the city. Some of the notable theaters include:

• Rustaveli National Theatre
• Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre
• Marjanishvili Theatre
• Kote Marjanishvili State Drama Theatre
• Puppet Theatre

Temples and Churches

Tbilisi is known for its diverse religious communities, and as a result, there are many temples and churches throughout the city. Some of the most interesting ones to visit include:

Sioni Cathedral

Located in the old part of the city, Sioni Cathedral is visible from various parts of the capital of Georgia. It was once the main cathedral of the country and is notable for housing the ancient relic of the Cross of Saint Nino, made from grapevines. Saint Nino is believed to have played a crucial role in the establishment of Christianity in Georgia. The holy relic is preserved inside the cathedral and inspires worshippers to engage in acts of kindness.

Metekhi Church and Sameba Cathedral

These two iconic structures are major landmarks in the old part of the city. Metekhi Church stands on a hill overlooking the Kura River, next to a monument dedicated to the founder of the city, Vakhtang Gorgasali. The Sameba Cathedral, located on the holy mountain of St. Elijah, is impossible to miss due to its impressive size.

Mosque

Built in the distant 18th century during the Ottoman Empire, the only mosque in Tbilisi is located a short distance from the sulfur baths. It is said that representatives of two different Islamic denominations come together to worship in this mosque, which is a rare occurrence in the world.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

While Tbilisi is known for its opera and ballet theater, as well as the Rustaveli Theatre, the most unique theater in terms of its exterior is the famous marionette theater.

It is truly a magical place that should be seen. The building is adorned with numerous original figurines, and every hour, a small golden-winged angel rings a bell, signaling that time is not standing still. Additionally, twice a day, at 12:00 and 19:00, a short play called "The Cycle of Life" is performed for free on the tower.

Now you know where to go and what to see in Tbilisi. And these are just a few of the many interesting attractions the city has to offer, including a canyon and waterfall in the heart of the old town, Narikala Fortress, the Mother of Georgia statue, cable cars, a funicular, and more. Visit hospitable Tbilisi, and all the wonders of the city will unfold before you in their beauty.