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Tbilisi and Surroundings

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Plan your trip to Tbilisi and Surroundings

Tbilisi and its surroundings blend ancient history, Orthodox monasteries, sulfur bathhouses, and a lively modern food and wine scene. The capital sits along the Mtkvari River, mixing cobbled old-town lanes with grand avenues, while nearby Mtskheta and desert monasteries make easy day trips. It's an affordable, walkable base for exploring the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Getting there & around

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), about 17 km southeast of the center, is the main gateway with connections across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. From the airport, take bus 337, a taxi, or ride-hailing apps like Bolt into the city. The old town is highly walkable, and the metro plus cheap taxis cover longer distances; renting a car or hiring a driver is best for reaching Davit Gareja and other rural sites.

How long to stay

Three to four days is ideal: two for Tbilisi itself and one or two for day trips to Mtskheta and the desert monasteries at Davit Gareja.

When to go

Late spring (May) and early autumn (September–October) bring warm, comfortable days without the intense summer heat. July and August can top 35°C, while winters are cold and grey but crowd-free.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Tbilisi Old Town and sulfur baths — Wander the cobbled lanes of Tbilisi Old Town, ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for panoramic views, and unwind in the Abanotubani sulfur bathhouses. End with a stroll across the illuminated Bridge of Peace.
  2. Modern Tbilisi and gardens — Walk the grand Rustaveli Avenue past theaters and museums, then escape the city bustle in the Tbilisi National Botanical Garden. Visit the vast Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) for its scale and hilltop views.
  3. Mtskheta day trip — Head to ancient Mtskheta, Georgia's former capital and spiritual heart, to see the UNESCO-listed Jvari Monastery overlooking the river confluence. Continue to the peaceful Shio-Mgvime Monastery tucked in a limestone canyon.

Frequently asked questions

Is Tbilisi worth visiting?

Yes. Tbilisi offers a rare mix of ancient architecture, sulfur baths, excellent Georgian cuisine and wine, and low prices, making it one of the Caucasus region's most rewarding city destinations.

How many days do you need in Tbilisi?

Two to four days is enough: two to explore the city thoroughly and one or two more for day trips to Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, and Davit Gareja.

How do you get from Tbilisi to Davit Gareja?

Davit Gareja is about 70 km southeast, roughly a 2-hour drive with no reliable public transport, so most travelers go by hired driver, organized tour, or rental car.

Is Mtskheta worth a day trip from Tbilisi?

Yes. Mtskheta is only about 20 km away, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites including Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and can easily be visited in half a day.

What is the best time to visit Tbilisi?

May and September–October offer warm, pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing, avoiding the hot summer peaks of July and August and the cold, grey winter.

History

Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali, who according to legend discovered the area's warm sulfur springs and made it his capital, replacing nearby Mtskheta. Its position along trade routes between Europe and Asia brought waves of Persian, Arab, Mongol, Ottoman, and Russian influence, and the city was repeatedly conquered and rebuilt over the centuries. In 1801 the region was absorbed into the Russian Empire, and Tbilisi later served as a Soviet administrative center before becoming the capital of independent Georgia in 1991. The surrounding area includes the ancient royal and religious center of Mtskheta, one of the oldest cities in the country.

Culture

Tbilisi is known for its warm hospitality, its historic sulfur bathhouses in the Abanotubani district, and a mix of architecture that ranges from Orthodox churches and mosques to Art Nouveau balconies and Soviet blocks. Traditional supra feasts, led by a toastmaster called the tamada, remain central to social life, accompanied by polyphonic singing, homemade wine, and dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. The city has a distinctly cosmopolitan and creative spirit, blending old-world charm with a lively contemporary art, music, and cafe scene.

Language

The local language is Georgian, which uses its own distinctive Mkhedruli alphabet and is unrelated to neighboring Slavic or Turkic tongues. A few useful phrases are "gamarjoba" for hello, "madloba" for thank you, and "gaumarjos" as a common toast meaning cheers.

Best time to visit

Late spring (May) and early autumn (September–October) offer warm days and vibrant city life without summer heat.

Places to visit

Where to eat