Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Tbilisi, Georgia

  • Published 2022/07/08

Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Tbilisi is a city with rich history and diverse culture.

On the banks of the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi has been inhabited since at least the fifth century AD.

Today, Tbilisi is a bustling metropolis home to 1.114 million people as of the 2016 consensus.

From its old town district with narrow cobblestone streets and ornate architecture to its lush green parks, there’s something for everyone in Tbilisi.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia:

Check Out the Narikala Fortress

Scenic sunset view of Narikala Fortress

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Narikala Fortress is a fortress in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.

The fortress dates back to the 4th century and is on a cliff overlooking Tbilisi.

After years of rebuilding and restoration, the Narikala Fortress is now a popular tourist attraction.

A sculpture at Narikala Fortress' courtyard

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There is debate over whether or not Narikala Fortress has any historical significance.

Some people believe that the fortress was only a watchtower, while others think it played a more significant role in Georgia’s history.

It is also home to many historical monuments and churches.

Castle structure of Narikala Fortress

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Discover Beautiful Plants at the National Botanical Gardens

Aerial view of National Botanical Gardens

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The National Botanical Gardens in Tbilisi are notable because of their lush and varied gardens.

There are different gardens for different types of plants, and they also have a large greenhouse.

The gardens are open every day of the week, and there is no admission fee.

A beautiful waterfall at National Botanical Gardens

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The Botanical Gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

They are also an excellent place for students to learn about plant life.

The gardens have a variety of educational programs for students of all ages, and they also offer group tours.

Japanese area of National Botanical Gardens

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The garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including over 5,000 trees and shrubs from all over the world.

There are also several lakes and ponds and many different gardens, each with a particular theme.

One of the most popular attractions in the garden is the greenhouse, which is home to various exotic plants from all over the world.

People on National Botanical Gardens' bridge

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Look at the Georgian National Museum

Exterior of Georgian National Museum

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The Georgian National Museum is one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in the Caucasus region.

The museum is also famous for its medieval art and Georgian culture exhibitions.

The Georgian National Museum is in the capital of Tbilisi.

Interior of Georgian National Museum

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It is home to a vast collection of Georgian art and artifacts from other cultures and periods.

The museum is also home to the world’s most extensive collection of medieval Georgian manuscripts.

The Georgian National Museum building is on the right bank of the Mtkvari River.

It houses a collection of more than 100,000 items, including prehistoric artifacts, ceramics, coins, medals, and Soviet art and numismatics.

An exhibit in Georgian National Museum

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Bring the Family to Mtatsminda Park

Entrance of Mtatsminda Park

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Mtatsminda Park is a public park in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It is on a hill in the city center, adjacent to the Mtatsminda district.

The park was founded in the 18th century and has undergone extensive renovation in recent years.

The huge ferris wheel of Mtatsminda Park

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There are also a few amusement parks in the park and a few restaurants.

The park is home to an amusement park, a zoo, a small lake, and various gardens.

It is now a popular tourist destination.

The park has many attractions, including a funicular railway, a Ferris wheel, and various gardens.

People walking around Mtatsminda Park

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Take a Relaxing Dip in the Sulfur Baths

Round brick exterior of the Sulfur Baths

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The Russian general Pyotr Bagration built the Sulfur Baths in Tbilisi.

The baths were once a health spa for the military garrison in Tbilisi.

The baths first belonged to a larger complex that included a mosque and a public bath.

Steam coming out of Sulfur Baths

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Men and women used the baths, considered an essential part of daily life.

The Sulfur Baths were a therapeutic spa that helped people with respiratory problems.

The baths are open year-round and offer various services, including massages, body scrubs, and facials.

Marvel at the River Kartli

Scenic sunset over River Kartli

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The stunning River Kartli in Tbilisi is a place that everyone should visit.

It’s a great place to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Beautiful mountains surround the river and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view.

There are also a few small cafes and restaurants near the river, so it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.

The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there’s always something happening.

Night lights reflecting on River Kartli

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Tbilisi is a great city to explore, and the River Kartli is a beautiful place to start.

The river flows through the city’s heart and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

There are many things to do on the river, including swimming, fishing, boating, and more.

The river is also home to some of the most stunning views in Tbilisi.

There is something for everyone at River Kartli, so check it out!

Ride a Bike around the Prometheus Statue

Daytime view of the Prometheus Statue

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The statue of Prometheus in Tbilisi is a popular tourist attraction.

The statue stands on a hill overlooking the city.

There are a few different things people can do in this area.

One thing people can do is walk up to the statue and take a picture.

The view of the city from the statue is beautiful, and it’s a great place to take a picture.

Another thing people can do is walk around the park at the bottom of the hill.

There are some lovely gardens and a river that runs through the park.

People can visit the statue to learn about its history and mythology.

There are also many activities that people can do in the area around the statue, including hiking and biking.

Sit Back and Relax at Shota Rustaveli Theatre

Exterior of Shota Rustaveli Theatre

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Shota Rustaveli Theatre is a theatre in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It gets its name from the 12th-century poet Shota Rustaveli.

The theatre is in Freedom Square, in the historic center of Tbilisi.

Tbilisi opened the theatre in 1879.

The architect Gia Kurdiani designed the theater building.

Close details of Shota Rustaveli Theatre's building

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The sculptor Zurab Tsereteli created the statues that decorate the façade of the theatre.

Shota Rustaveli Theatre, Tbilisi, GA, is exceptional because of a few things.

It is the oldest and largest theatre in Georgia.

The theatre has a seating capacity of 1,200 people.

The theatre stages opera, ballet, drama and concerts.

The theatre is also used as a conference center.

Explore the Presidential Palace

Daytime view of the Presidential Palace

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The Presidential Palace of Georgia is a palace in Tbilisi, Georgia.

The Presidential Palace in Tbilisi is a Georgian palace famous for being the home of the President of Georgia.

King Vakhtang VI of Kartli built the palace in the 18th century as a fortress.

Night lights of the Presidential Palace

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The palace was reconstructed in the 1960s and became the president’s official residence in 1995.

The palace is a large, white building with columns and a dome.

It is in the center of Tbilisi and is one of the most important buildings in the city.

The palace has been damaged by fire and explosions several times but was repaired each time.

Go to Sameba Cathedral

Aerial view of Sameba Cathedral

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The Sameba Cathedral in Tbilisi is one of the most famous and significant Orthodox churches in the world.

It is the largest cathedral in Georgia and one of the largest in Eastern Europe.

Front view of Sameba Cathedral's exterior

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The cathedral was consecrated in 2003 and is now the seat of the Georgian Orthodox Patriarchate.

The cathedral is a beautiful and imposing structure, with a large central dome and four smaller domes.

It is decorated with traditional Georgian frescoes and mosaics and is a central tourist attraction in Tbilisi.

Interior of Sameba Cathedral

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Enjoy the Show at Puppet Theatre Gulia

Exterior of Puppet Theatre Gulia

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Gulia Puppet Theatre is a puppet theatre in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It is the only professional puppet theatre in the country.

Zurab Kiknadze established the theater in 1990, which has staged performances since 1992.

Kiknadze is the director and chief puppeteer of the theatre.

The theatre is in the former Children’s Palace of Tbilisi building.

The Gulia Puppet Theatre is famous for its unique puppetry style, mixing Georgian and European traditions.

Bring Your Daughter to the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre

Exterior of Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre

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The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre is a world-renowned opera and ballet theatre in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It is the largest and oldest theatre in the country.

Ballerina sculptures on the grounds of Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre

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The theatre has seen visits from many prominent figures over the years, including Mikhail Gorbachev, Boris Yeltsin, and François Mitterrand.

The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre is famous for its high-quality productions.

It has received numerous prizes, including the Golden Mask prize for Best Opera Theatre in Russia and the Europa Prize for Best Opera Theatre.

Side facade of Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre

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Bring the Kids to Tbilisi Zoo

A beautiful peacock at Tbilisi Zoo

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The Tbilisi Zoo is a zoo in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It is a popular tourist attraction, receiving over 1 million visitors annually.

A deer at Tbilisi Zoo

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The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, representing 600 species.

It is also home to the most extensive collection of animals in the Caucasus region.

The zoo is famous for its collection of big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards.

Lemurs at Tbilisi Zoo

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Check Out Turtle Lake

Scenic view of Turtle Lake

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Turtle Lake is a census-designated place in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Turtle Lake is best known as the home of the Turtle Lake International Chess Tournament, held annually since 1978.

Indeed, it is a beautiful place that you must visit.

The calm waters of Turtle Lake

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Roam the Beautiful Gardens at the Rike Park 18, Europe Square

Aerial view of Rike Park

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Rike Park, in the heart of Tbilisi, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Georgia.

The park is known for its beautiful gardens, impressive fountains, and stunning cityscape views.

Rike Park is home to Europe Square, a large plaza with a beautiful fountain in the center.

Gorgeous flora at Rike Park

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The square is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, often used for concerts and other events.

The square is named for its location in the heart of Europe and is a popular spot for people to gather and celebrate national holidays.

Rike Park is also home to several other attractions, including a children’s playground, a lake, a rose garden, and several restaurants and cafes.

A blooming magnolia tree at Rike Park

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a marvelous and unforgettable trip, add Tbilisi, Georgia, to your list!

You’ll never run out of activities with plenty of things to do, see, and explore.

There’s something for everyone in Tbilisi, from enjoying the city’s vibrant culture to tasting its delicious cuisine.

So add it to your travel bucket list – you won’t regret it!

Best Hotels in Tbilisi

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