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Tbilisi

Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, mixes a historic Old Town of sulfur baths and carved wooden balconies with a lively modern scene along the Mtkvari River.

Country
Georgia
Population
1.2 million
Area
504 km²
Time zone
GET (UTC+4)
Language
Georgian
Nearby airport
Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport

Passengers

Luggage

About Tbilisi

Tbilisi is Georgia's capital and largest city, spread along the banks of the Mtkvari River in a valley ringed by hills. Its character blends centuries of trading heritage with a relaxed café culture, a growing creative scene and a strong sense of Georgian identity.

The city's history reaches back to the 5th century, when King Vakhtang I Gorgasali is said to have founded it after discovering the area's warm sulfur springs. Its position on historic routes between Europe and Asia shaped its architecture and everyday life through Persian, Arab, Ottoman and Russian influences.

Landmarks include the Old Town's balconied houses, the Abanotubani sulfur baths, Narikala Fortress, the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Bridge of Peace and the museums and theatres along Rustaveli Avenue. Distinctive areas such as Sololaki, Mtatsminda, Vera, Vake and Marjanishvili each offer a different atmosphere.

Tbilisi has also grown as a regional centre for business, technology and events, while its food, natural wine, markets and nightlife draw visitors throughout the year. Khinkali dumplings, khachapuri and traditional supra feasts reflect deep culinary traditions.

Whether travelling for history, food, culture or business, Tbilisi offers a compact and walkable city with a distinctive blend of old and modern life.

Golden hour view over Tbilisi Old Town rooftops, Narikala Fortress and the Mtkvari River in Georgia

Tbilisi Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit

Spring from April to May and autumn from September to early November bring mild weather ideal for exploring Tbilisi's Old Town and outdoor terraces. Summers can be hot, winter is cooler but quieter, and the Tbilisoba festival in October celebrates the city's food, wine and culture.

How to Get Around

Tbilisi has a two-line metro, an extensive bus network and marshrutka minibuses, with cable cars connecting the river valley to Narikala Fortress and Mtatsminda Park. The historic centre is walkable, and taxis or ride-hailing apps are widely available for longer journeys.

Where to Stay

The Old Town and Sololaki are convenient for landmarks, sulfur baths and characterful guesthouses, while Rustaveli Avenue and Vera offer central hotels, museums and restaurants. Vake is a calmer, upscale residential area, and Marjanishvili has a lively local dining and café scene.

Food & Drink

Tbilisi is known for khachapuri cheese bread, khinkali dumplings and Georgian wines, served everywhere from traditional cellars to modern restaurants and wine bars. Visit Dezerter Bazaar, neighbourhood bakeries and the cafés around Abanotubani and Fabrika for a broad taste of local food.

Ground Transportation Services in Tbilisi

Airport Transfers

Travel between Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport and hotels, the Old Town, business districts and other destinations across Tbilisi.

Hourly Chauffeur

Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, events, sightseeing and flexible travel around Tbilisi and nearby areas.

Car Rental

Rent a car in Tbilisi for independent travel around the city and convenient day trips to Mtskheta, the Kakheti wine region and the mountains.

Bus & Group Transfers

Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, airport transfers, city tours and excursions from Tbilisi.