Tbilisi in One Day: A Complete Guide to the Main Attractions of the Georgian Capital

• History and name of the city
• Weather in Tbilisi
• How to get to Tbilisi
• How to get around Tbilisi
• What to see in one day
• Tips for tourists
• FAQ

Tbilisi is a city where the histories and destinies of different nations and cultures intertwine, where ancient traditions coexist with the modern rhythm of life, and every corner of the city keeps traces of centuries-old history. The capital of Georgia attracts tourists with the variety of places that can be discovered here: from ancient fortresses and churches to trendy cafes and art galleries. In Tbilisi, you will feel like you are on the pages of history, walking along the narrow streets of the Old Town, and then return to the present, where you will be greeted by modern buildings and lively streets full of life.

This article will help you make the most of your time in Tbilisi if you only have one day to spare. We will tell you about the main attractions of the city that are worth visiting, offer the best route for walking and share useful tips that will make your stay here comfortable and unforgettable and leave the warmest memories of Tbilisi in your heart!

Tbilisi has a rich and eventful history, dating back more than one and a half thousand years. This city was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the ruler of Iberia. Legend has it that while hunting, the king discovered hot sulfur springs, which impressed him so much that he decided to found a city on this very spot.

Since then, Tbilisi has become the most important cultural and political center of the region and has experienced periods of prosperity and decline under the influence of various empires - Persians, Ottomans, Russians and many others. Each of these peoples left their mark on the architecture and culture of the city, which made Tbilisi a truly unique place.

The name "Tbilisi" comes from the Georgian word "tbili", which means "warm", and is directly related to the hot sulfur springs that were discovered on the territory of the modern city. These springs played an important role in the lives of the city's residents for centuries and have become a symbol of the Georgian capital. The sulfur baths built on these springs still remain a popular place of rest for both locals and tourists.

Tbilisi is located in the subtropical continental climate zone, so the winters here are mild, and the summers are hot and dry.

Summer is the time when Tbilisi lives its most active life: cafes and restaurants offer wonderful relaxation on their open terraces, and parks and streets are filled with tourists and locals. The temperature in the city in the summer months often reaches +35°C and above, so sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen will be your best companions during this period.

In winter in Tbilisi, the average temperature rarely drops below zero, and snow is a rare occurrence. The city during this period is immersed in a calmer and cozier atmosphere, so this is a great time to visit museums, galleries and other indoor attractions.

Spring and autumn in Tbilisi are wonderful seasons for traveling, when the temperature is comfortable, nature blooms and the city appears in all its glory.

Tbilisi is a transport hub accessible from all over the world thanks to Shota Rustaveli International Airport, which receives direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Inside the airport, you will find modern amenities such as cafes, shops and currency exchange services, which will make your stay here comfortable and enjoyable.

From the airport, you can get to the city center by taxi in 20-30 minutes or in a little more time by bus, which runs regularly and offers a budget option, and for those who prefer organized transfers, private carriers and hotel shuttles are available.

In addition, there are alternative ways to get to Tbilisi: you can use the railway and bus routes from neighboring countries. For example, you can come to Tbilisi from Armenia and Azerbaijan by train, enjoying the picturesque views of the Caucasus along the way, and bus routes connect Tbilisi with major cities in Russia, Turkey and other neighboring countries. It is worth noting that for car travelers, the roads in Georgia are in good condition, and entry into Tbilisi is possible from various directions via modern highways.

Tbilisi offers a variety of convenient ways to get around the city, suitable for any tourist. The main form of public transport is the metro, which includes two lines that cover the main areas of the city and intersect in the center. The metro operates from early morning until late evening, and traveling on it is a quick and economical way to get to most attractions.

In addition, the city has buses and minibuses that allow you to get to more remote areas. The bus network covers most of the city, and the routes pass through key tourist areas, making them a great option for getting around the Georgian capital.

Taxis are another popular way to get around Tbilisi, especially for those who prefer comfort. Taxis can be called through apps such as Bolt or Yandex.Taxi, which guarantee a fixed price and the convenience of paying by card.

Those who like to explore the city on foot can discover the central areas of Tbilisi on a walk, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other. During the warmer months, you can also rent a bicycle or electric scooter, which will add a little activity to your trip and allow you to immerse yourself even more in the atmosphere of the city.

If you have only one day to explore Tbilisi, we offer you an itinerary that will allow you to cover the main sights of the city and feel its spirit.

Start the morning with a visit to the Narikala Fortress, one of the most important and historically significant places in Tbilisi, towering on a steep hill above the old town. Founded in the 4th century, it initially served as a powerful defensive structure protecting the city from numerous invaders. Today, only ruins remain of the ancient walls, which nevertheless impress with their power and grandeur and allow you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of antiquity.

A visit to Narikala gives you the opportunity not only to feel the history of the country, but also to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi. You can climb to the fortress on foot, along the narrow and winding streets of the Old Town, or by cable car, which starts from Rike Park.

After visiting Narikala, go down to the sulfur baths in the Abanotubani area, based on natural hot sulfur springs and attracting people with their healing properties for over a thousand years. It is believed that these springs inspired King Vakhtang Gorgasali to found the city in the 5th century.

The architecture of the baths is unique: they are built in an oriental style with characteristic hemispherical domes that rise above the ground, creating an atmosphere of coziness and tranquility. Inside the baths, you will find warm rooms filled with sulfur vapors, where you can relax, improve the condition of your skin and get rid of stress.

You have the opportunity to choose one of several types of baths, from public to private, and enjoy swimming in warm mineral waters, which, according to legend, have a rejuvenating effect. After bath procedures, visitors are often offered a massage or peeling, which makes a visit to the sulfur baths a full-fledged ritual of beauty and health.

Then head to Shardeni Street, one of the liveliest and most charming streets in the center of Tbilisi, which has become a symbol of modern city life, while retaining its historical charm. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, it is named after the French missionary Jean Chardin, who lived in Tbilisi in the 17th century.

Today, it is a pedestrian area known for its cozy cafes, stylish restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Its cobbled streets and narrow alleys take you to the atmosphere of old Tbilisi, where every corner is filled with history and culture.

Shardeni Street attracts tourists and locals with its special atmosphere, which perfectly combines the old and the new. Here you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of Georgian wine in one of the many cafes, watching the life of the city, or drop into the art galleries, where works of local artists are presented.

At night, the street is transformed into the center of Tbilisi nightlife: bars and clubs come alive and offer entertainment for every taste. This is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment, whether it’s a leisurely stroll during the day or partying until the morning.

After lunch, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Tsminda Sameba, which is one of the most significant religious and cultural symbols of modern Georgia. Completed in 2004, this majestic temple rises on St. Elias Hill in central Tbilisi, and its impressive size makes it one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world.

Built in traditional Georgian architectural style with elements of Byzantine influence, this temple impresses with its grandeur: its height is 87 meters, and its golden dome is visible from almost anywhere in the city. Tsminda Sameba is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of Georgia’s spiritual revival after long years of Soviet rule.

A visit to the Holy Trinity Cathedral is not only an opportunity to touch Georgia’s spiritual heritage, but also a unique chance to appreciate the grandeur of modern Georgian architecture embodied in this grandiose project.

End your day with a stroll through Rike Park, a modern and vibrant green oasis in the heart of Tbilisi, located on the banks of the Kura River, not far from the Old Town. This park, created with the latest trends in landscape design, has become a favorite place for walks and relaxation for both locals and tourists.

The park is filled with modern sculptures and installations that give it a special charm and make it attractive to art lovers. One of the main attractions of the park is the musical fountain, which puts on spectacular light shows in the evenings, attracting the attention of visitors of all ages.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Rike Park is also an important transportation hub. It is from here that the cable car starts, leading to the Narikala Fortress, the Botanical Garden and the Mother Georgia statue towering over the city. Once on the cable car, you can enjoy stunning views of Tbilisi and its surroundings.

If you still have time and energy after a busy day, head back to the center of Tbilisi and end the evening by enjoying Georgian cuisine in one of the traditional restaurants.

Georgia is famous for its rich variety of culinary delights, and in Tbilisi you will have the opportunity to try the best local dishes. From khinkali and khachapuri to satsivi and shashlik, each restaurant will offer you unique variations of these culinary masterpieces. Complement your dinner with a glass of famous Georgian wine, which will perfectly highlight the tastes of the dishes and leave pleasant memories of your visit.

Choose a restaurant with a view of the city to once again admire the lights of Tbilisi at night. Many establishments are located on terraces or upper floors of buildings, offering stunning panoramic views of the old town, the Kura River and the hills surrounding Tbilisi. Such a dinner will be the perfect end to your day in Tbilisi and will leave warm memories and a desire to return to this amazing city again.

Tbilisi is a city where every corner breathes history and culture, but to make your stay here as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, there are a few important things to consider.

• Safety: Tbilisi is a relatively safe city, however, as in any major tourist center, you should be careful with your belongings, especially in crowded places such as markets, squares and public transport. Do not leave valuables unattended and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Georgian language: Knowing a few basic phrases in Georgian can greatly improve your trip to Tbilisi. Although most young people in the capital of Georgia speak English, the older generation prefers to communicate in Georgian or Russian. A simple “gamarjoba” (hello) or “madloba” (thank you) will help you to win over locals and show your respect for their culture.
• Currency: The Georgian currency is the Lari (GEL), and although you can pay with a credit card in larger shops and restaurants, always carry cash as smaller cafes, markets and taxis may not accept cards. Exchange offices can be found in all tourist areas and the exchange rates are good, but you should avoid changing money with street money changers.
• Transport: Getting around the city also requires some preparation. The metro and buses are great ways to get around Tbilisi, but if you plan to use a taxi, it is best to agree on a price in advance or use a taxi app like Bolt or Yandex.Taxi to avoid misunderstandings. Taxi drivers generally do not speak English, so it is useful to have the address of your hotel or the names of attractions written in Georgian.
• Hospitality: The local culture of hospitality means that you may be invited to dinner or to try some homemade wine. Do not refuse - such offers are sincere and have good intentions.
• Traditions: It is important to remember that Tbilisi is a city with deep-rooted traditions, and respect for them will make your stay here more enjoyable. Dress modestly when visiting churches, observe local customs, and your visit to the capital of Georgia will be one of the most vivid and memorable journeys in your life.

Tbilisi is a city that captivates with its history, culture and unique atmosphere. Here, the past and the present coexist harmoniously, creating a unique space where everyone can find something for themselves. Whether you are interested in architecture, gastronomy, or just looking for a place for a quiet holiday, Tbilisi offers all this and more. Walking along its narrow streets, visiting ancient fortresses and modern parks, trying traditional dishes and enjoying panoramic views, you will definitely fall in love with this city. It will leave warm memories in your heart and a desire to return here again to discover new facets of this amazing place.

❓ What is the most convenient way to get around Tbilisi?

The most convenient way to get around Tbilisi is by metro. It is fast, inexpensive and covers the main areas of the city.

❓ When is the best time to visit Tbilisi?

The best time to visit Tbilisi is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is most comfortable and there are not so many tourists.

❓ What Georgian cuisine is a must-try?

Be sure to try khachapuri, khinkali and Georgian wine - real culinary masterpieces of Georgia!

❓ Is it possible to do without cash in Tbilisi?

You can pay by card in large stores and restaurants, but it is better to have some cash with you for small purchases at markets and paying for taxis.

❓ Is one day enough to explore Tbilisi?

You can see the main sights in one day, but to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city, you should stay here for a few days.

❓ Is Georgia good for nightlife?

Absolutely! Tbilisi is famous for its bars, clubs and nightlife.

❓ What not to wear in Georgia?

Avoid wearing revealing clothes, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and respect local traditions.

❓ What is best not to do in Georgia?

Don't refuse an invitation to dinner or to visit someone - this may be perceived as impolite. Georgians are very hospitable!