Best attractions in Tbilisi: Top 27
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After reading this review, you will learn about the best attractions in Tbilisi - architectural and historical monuments, entertainment centers and natural masterpieces. We will tell you about all that every tourist should see in Tbilisi.
What to see in Tbilisi first?
In compiling our “places of interest in Tbilisi” rating, we considered reviews and recommendations from hospitable locals, travelers and experienced guides. In our general opinion, your trip to this hospitable city should definitely include a trip to the following sites:
1. Narikala Fortress
The most ancient architectural monument of the Georgian capital. The date of construction is not reliably known, but it is established that in the 4th century the fortress already existed. It got its present appearance in 1827: the city authorities had reconstructed the ancient fortification, badly damaged by the earthquake. Tbilisi sights such as the Narikala fortress can be visited for free. From the upper level of the building opens incredible panoramas.
2. Tbilisi Old Town
What must every visitor of the city visit in Tbilisi? Its “heart” with small winding cobblestone streets and ancient houses. Here you can touch and feel the true spirit of Georgian history.
3. Rustaveli Avenue
The central street, which guides in Tbilisi advise to walk by all means. Here are numerous cultural and architectural attractions of the capital: the Kavsheti Temple, the Shota Rustaveli cinema, the State Parliament and the Vorontsov Palace. Here you can also find the best hotels in Tbilisi, such as the Marriott (took over the majestic building of the former Majestic Hotel).
4. Tsminda Sameba complex
The date of construction of the cathedral, which belongs to the Orthodox Church of Georgia, is 1995. Most of the financial resources for the creation of the temple were donated by volunteers. As part of the modern complex: a beautiful cathedral, the residence of the patriarch, a seminary and a monastery for parishioners.
5. Zion Cathedral
Located in Old Tbilisi, and perfectly visible from any side of the capital. The main value of the cathedral is the cross of St. Nino, created from a vine and intertwined with the hair of the great martyr. The saint brought the Christian faith to Georgia with this cross.
Watch spectacular views of Tbilisi in this beautiful video!
6. Metehi temple
The building is located in the central part of the city, on the cliff face. The date of construction is the 13th century. During its long history the church has been destroyed and reconstructed several times. Now it is in the form in which it was reconstructed in the 16th century. It’s a striking example of Georgian temple architecture - without extra decorations and with laconic forms. If you do not know what to see in Tbilisi in 1 day, but are passionate about history and architecture, come here.
7. Church of Anchikhati
Date of construction - 6th century. This is one of the oldest temples in the country that has survived to our time. During the reign of Soviet power, the church was converted into a museum complex and art workshop. Today, there are stored ancient icons, and the famous Georgian choir gives its performances.
8. Necropolis on Mount Mtatsminda
This is the burial place for the most influential and famous people of the state: artists, national heroes, poets, scientists. Here lie the ashes of Gamsakhurdia, the first president of Georgia. The necropolis was founded on the 100th anniversary of Griboyedov’s death in 1929.
9. Monument to the Mother of Kartli
The monument is 20 meters high and is located near the fortress. It was erected on the day of the celebration of the 1.5-thousandth anniversary of the Georgian capital. The monument symbolizes the readiness of Tbilisi to repel attacks of enemies: a sword in one hand of the Mother of Georgia and to welcome friends in peace: a cup of wine in the other hand.
10. Monument “History of Georgia”
The majestic composition is included in all the lists of “main sights of Georgia“. Tsereteli worked on it for almost two decades. Each of the 16 huge columns of the monument tells its own legend related to the legends of the Bible or the history of the state. In addition, the complex includes: statues of sages, a temple and the cross of St. Nino.
11. Freedom Square and Monument
The formation of the square began in the 19th century. During the Soviet Union period the former buildings were demolished and the area received a new look. The modern square attracts attention with its numerous government and administrative institutions. In addition, in our rating “the best sights of Tbilisi” it is included because of the 30-meter monument (the composition of the statue of St. George and a tall column).
12. Monument to the heroes of the film Mimino
Another great masterpiece of the legendary Tsereteli. The monument was created by the sculptor 7 years ago - originally it was supposed to decorate the capital of Russia. The purpose of the sculptural group is to demonstrate friendly relations between Russia, Armenia and Georgia (according to the head of the city at the monument’s unveiling).
13. Flea market near the Dry Bridge
Where to go in Tbilisi for fans of shopping and good shopping? To the local flea market, especially appreciated by lovers of art and antiques. It offers a variety of small items. But among them you can find and buy “for a penny” real rarities. Popular tourist items: candlesticks, antique coins, national ornaments with enamel, records.
14. Georgian Opera and Ballet Theatre named after Paliashvili
The first building of the opera was built back in the 19th century, focusing on the best stages of Europe. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed it. The current mansion, considered today the center of culture in Tbilisi, also has a solid and remarkable appearance. The best performers and ballet troupes of the country give their performances here.
Official website: http://www.opera.
15. Georgian National Museum
Even if you are not a fan of walking around museums, you should definitely visit this complex. In the spacious exhibition halls are unique and varied specimens: human skulls, objects from the Soviet occupation, rifles, clothing, ancient coins and bills, jewelry, jugs, etc. Not all tours in Tbilisi are as fascinating as a guided tour of this building. You will learn many interesting facts about the history of the city and all of Georgia.
Official website: http://museum
16. Niko Pirosmani Museum
The famous self-taught painter from Georgia, Nikolai Pirosmanishvili, became famous throughout the world for his creations in the spirit of primitivism. So it’s not surprising that the local authorities decided to organize a whole museum in his honor. A complex with 16 works of the master was opened in 1982. In addition to the works of Niko himself, canvases by other painters are exhibited here.
17. The Rizo Gabriadze Marionette Theater
One of the capital’s most visited theaters strikes you with its beauty inside and out. Twice a day a free mini-performance is given on the tower of the building. In addition, every hour an angel with golden wings strikes the bell here. Let’s say right away that it is quite difficult to buy a ticket here - you should book it in advance, at least a couple of weeks before your visit to Tbilisi.
Official site: http://gabriadze.com/
18. Puppet Museum
Date of opening - 1937. The project was organized by T. Tumanishvili, a writer for children. For about 15 years the complex did not work, but in 2008 it reopened its doors with an updated and expanded collection of dolls from around the world.
Official website: http://tbilisimuseumsunion
19. Tbilisi Ethnographic Museum
The attraction is located near Turtle Lake, so it is a favorite of tourists and locals. In the vast museum area, you can look at Georgian household items and their former national homes. In addition, guests are invited to taste the real local wine, and buy samples they like.
Official site: http://museum
20. Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani)
The sulfur springs were in the area even before the city was created. According to one legend, a prince of Georgia shot a bird that fell into these springs and boiled there. This gave the area the name “Tbilisi” (i.e. warm). Everyone is welcome to visit the baths - there are public and individual springs. If you have no desire to enjoy the water procedures, it is worth coming here for a walk through the domes.
Official website: http://www.chreli-abano
Tbilisi sights: what else to visit in Tbilisi?
We have told you about the main attractions of Tbilisi briefly. However, the list of fascinating places and sites of the capital does not come to an end here:
21. Tbilisi Botanical Garden
There are about 3.5 thousand unique and popular plants in a fairly impressive area. The cost of a visit is minimal. After visiting the botanical garden, you can go to the nearby Narikala fortress.
Official site: https://conference.nbgg
22. Turtle lake
Despite the fact that the size of the spring is small, guests at the lake are always numerous. The reservoir attracts visitors by the surrounding dense forest, play and sports grounds, jogging paths, cafes and a beach. It is possible to rent a catamaran. Directly to the natural attraction leads a catamaran road.
23. Rike Park
One of the city’s most beautiful park areas. The area is well equipped: there are benches and benches, fountains and asphalt paths. A cable car offers a ride to the botanical garden and the Narikala fortress.
24. Tbilisi funicular railway
Using the funicular, you can arrive at the Mtatsminda entertainment complex in a short time. On the way you can observe incredible panoramas of the Georgian capital. In addition, you will see the Temple of St. David and the Pantheon of Writers. The way back can also be done by cable car or on foot - there is a well-trodden path that leads to the central part of Tbilisi.
25. Bombora Amusement and Attraction Park
Children’s entertainment center, which should be visited by the whole family. You do not need to pay to enter the complex, you can freely walk around the territory. However, please note that the rides themselves are offered for a fee. The attractions, named after the fairy tale character, are open all year round. But during the winter months, some rides do not run. However, a beautiful ice rink appears. A cozy cafe called the Funicular is open on the grounds - you can see the beauty of the whole town from its large windows.
Official website: https://park.ge/ru
26. Cableway
For locals, the cable car is an operative and comfortable way to get around various corners of Tbilisi. Despite the fact that the duration of the structure is short, it always has enough guests. The lower part of the road is Rike Park. It should be noted that in the capital is organized by a common system of payment in public transport - a special card, which you will buy for a trip on the canal, you can also use in the local subway.
27. Peace Bridge
The central architectural value of the Georgian capital. You can see its image on many local souvenirs. Large-scale transparent construction unites new districts of the city and Old Tbilisi. In the evening hours it is illuminated by three tens of thousands of lamps. An interesting point: with the help of Morse code, these bulbs transmit a message with all elements of the Mendeleev table that are in the human body.
We hope that the sights of Tbilisi, photos with names and descriptions of which we have now presented to you, have aroused your interest. If possible, visit them for sure.
Batumi is another city in Georgia that is definitely worth visiting. Read our review article about Batumi attractions and be inspired for your next trip to Georgia.
