Destination guideTbilisi · Georgia
33 Things to Do in Tbilisi (2026)
Discover the beauty and culture of Tbilisi. Enjoy the local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Updated September 8, 2026 · 33 places verified against live place data
- 33 spots
- 7 must-try dishes
- Researched September 2026
- 24 sources
The short answer
- Start with Turtle Lake (Vake-Saburtalo), Chronicles of Georgia (Nadzaladevi District) and Tabor Monastery of the Transfiguration (Old Tbilisi), the places the research led with.
- For food, Acharuli Khachapuri and Triple Cheese Kikliko lead the must-try list; the full list of places to eat is on the Tbilisi food guide.
- The best time to visit Tbilisi is during spring (May and June) or autumn (September and October), when temperatures are mild and the city is vibrant with greenery or fall colors.
33 places worth your time in Tbilisi
Things to see and do
Turtle Lake
Perched on the wooded slopes of Mtatsminda, this lake serves as a primary recreational hub where locals escape the heat.
- Turtle LakePerched on the wooded slopes of Mtatsminda, this lake serves as a primary recreational hub where locals escape the heat.
Turtle Lake, Tbilisi, Georgia
Chronicles of Georgia
This monumental pillar complex, often referred to as the 'Georgian Stonehenge,' consists of 16 massive bronze and copper columns reaching up to 35 meters in height.
- Chronicles of GeorgiaThis monumental pillar complex, often referred to as the 'Georgian Stonehenge,' consists of 16 massive bronze and copper columns reaching up to 35 meters in height.
Chronicles of Georgia Temqa, QRC6+65V, T'bilisi, Georgia
Tabor Monastery of the Transfiguration
Situated on a high rocky ridge, this monastery provides the most comprehensive panoramic view of Old Tbilisi, featuring a direct line of sight to the Narikala Fortress and the brick domes of the sulfur baths below.
- Tabor Monastery of the TransfigurationSituated on a high rocky ridge, this monastery provides the most comprehensive panoramic view of Old Tbilisi, featuring a direct line of sight to the Narikala Fortress and the brick domes of the sulfur baths below.
MRP7+758, Kharfukhi Turn, T'bilisi, Georgia
Lake Lisi
A favorite local alternative to the more central parks, this lake features a 3-kilometer loop ideal for jogging, cycling, and strolling.
- Lake LisiA favorite local alternative to the more central parks, this lake features a 3-kilometer loop ideal for jogging, cycling, and strolling.
Lake Lisi, Tbilisi, Georgia
Fabrika Tbilisi
A former Soviet sewing factory transformed into a massive multi-functional creative space. It serves as the city's primary social engine, housing an open-air courtyard with diverse bars, experimental galleries.
- Fabrika TbilisiA former Soviet sewing factory transformed into a massive multi-functional creative space. It serves as the city's primary social engine, housing an open-air courtyard with diverse bars, experimental galleries, and co-working areas.
8 Egnate ninoshvili st, 8 Ninoshvili St, თბილისი 0102, Georgia
National Botanical Garden
Stretching across the Tsavkisistskali Canyon, this expansive reserve features a diverse collection of flora, a 40-meter high waterfall, and arched bridges.
- National Botanical GardenStretching across the Tsavkisistskali Canyon, this expansive reserve features a diverse collection of flora, a 40-meter high waterfall, and arched bridges.
Botanikuri St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi Outlet Village • თბილისი აუთლეტ ვილიჯი
Opened at the end of 2025, this is the first designer outlet center in the Caucasus region. Designed to mimic the aesthetic of Old Tbilisi with its signature brickwork and ornate balconies.
- Tbilisi Outlet Village • თბილისი აუთლეტ ვილიჯიOpened at the end of 2025, this is the first designer outlet center in the Caucasus region. Designed to mimic the aesthetic of Old Tbilisi with its signature brickwork and ornate balconies, it offers an open-air shopping experience.
M2GC+3CW Vaziani, თბილისი, Georgia
Chreli Abano
An ancient district of brick-domed bathhouses built over natural hot springs. While iconic, locals specifically recommend the private rooms for an authentic 'kisa' (exfoliating scrub) experience.
- Chreli AbanoAn ancient district of brick-domed bathhouses built over natural hot springs. While iconic, locals specifically recommend the private rooms for an authentic 'kisa' (exfoliating scrub) experience.
N2 Abano St, Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi Photography & Multimedia Museum
The premier annual photography event in the Caucasus, taking place throughout September 2026. This festival is unique because it 'commandeers' the city.
- Tbilisi Photography & Multimedia MuseumThe premier annual photography event in the Caucasus, taking place throughout September 2026. This festival is unique because it 'commandeers' the city.
14 Merab Kostava St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Bridge of Peace
This 156-meter-long pedestrian bridge is a striking contemporary landmark characterized by its undulating steel and glass canopy that resembles a marine creature.
- Bridge of PeaceThis 156-meter-long pedestrian bridge is a striking contemporary landmark characterized by its undulating steel and glass canopy that resembles a marine creature.
Tbilisi 0162, Georgia
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
Rising 86 meters above Elia Hill, this massive structure is one of the largest religious buildings in the world and the tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the South Caucasus.
- Holy Trinity Cathedral of TbilisiRising 86 meters above Elia Hill, this massive structure is one of the largest religious buildings in the world and the tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral in the South Caucasus.
MRX8+3H8, Tbilisi, Georgia
Opera and Ballet Theater of Tbilisi
A masterpiece of the Moorish Revival style, this 19th-century venue stands out with a beige facade decorated with horizontal stripes, pointed arches, and ornate turrets.
- Opera and Ballet Theater of TbilisiA masterpiece of the Moorish Revival style, this 19th-century venue stands out with a beige facade decorated with horizontal stripes, pointed arches, and ornate turrets.
25 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi 0108, Georgia
Public Service Hall
Designed by Studio Fuksas, this avant-garde government building is easily identified by its roof composed of 11 giant, overlapping white 'petals' that reach up to 35 meters in height.
- Public Service HallDesigned by Studio Fuksas, this avant-garde government building is easily identified by its roof composed of 11 giant, overlapping white 'petals' that reach up to 35 meters in height.
1 Zviad Gamsakhurdia Named Right Bank, T'bilisi 0106, Georgia
MoMA Tbilisi
This expansive three-story space on Rustaveli Avenue is dedicated to the monumental and often controversial works of Georgian-Russian artist Zurab Tsereteli.
- MoMA TbilisiThis expansive three-story space on Rustaveli Avenue is dedicated to the monumental and often controversial works of Georgian-Russian artist Zurab Tsereteli.
27 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi, Georgia
Georgian National Museum
The flagship of the Georgian National Museum system, this venue houses the extraordinary Archaeological Treasury, featuring the intricate pre-Christian Colchis gold that inspired the myth of the Golden Fleece.
- Georgian National MuseumThe flagship of the Georgian National Museum system, this venue houses the extraordinary Archaeological Treasury, featuring the intricate pre-Christian Colchis gold that inspired the myth of the Golden Fleece.
3 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi 0105, Georgia
Art Museum of Georgia
Relaunched in late 2024 and fully established as a premier cultural hub by 2026, this museum is the definitive home for Georgian national art.
2/4 Aleksandr Pushkin St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Art Palace
Housed in a stunning 19th-century palace once owned by a German prince, this museum is dedicated to theater, cinema, music, and choreography.
PQ8V+9R8, Ia Kargareteli Street, T'bilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi Wine Museum
8 Sioni St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Where to eat
See the full Tbilisi food guide: where to eat and what to order.
Vejineli
A top-tier destination for those seeking traditional Georgian cuisine executed with uncompromising precision.
- VejineliA top-tier destination for those seeking traditional Georgian cuisine executed with uncompromising precision.
7-13 TKavi I Dead End, T'bilisi, Georgia
Cafe Stamba
Set within a former Soviet publishing house, this venue features soaring concrete ceilings and a lush, plant-filled atrium.
- Cafe StambaSet within a former Soviet publishing house, this venue features soaring concrete ceilings and a lush, plant-filled atrium.
14 Merab Kostava St, T'bilisi 0108, Georgia
Puri Guliani
Located at the Saarbrucken Square, this venue is a masterclass in Georgian dough-based arts. It is widely considered the best place in the city for Adjarian Khachapuri and unique sweet treats like their signature.
- Puri GulianiLocated at the Saarbrucken Square, this venue is a masterclass in Georgian dough-based arts. It is widely considered the best place in the city for Adjarian Khachapuri and unique sweet treats like their signature pomegranate pastry.
Saarbrucken Square Tbilisi Tbilisi, T'bilisi 0102, Georgia
Lily Vanilli
The Tbilisi outpost of the famous East London bakery, this Vake-based spot is essential for dessert lovers.
- Lily VanilliThe Tbilisi outpost of the famous East London bakery, this Vake-based spot is essential for dessert lovers. It offers seasonal cakes, eclairs, and artisanal pastries alongside Allpress coffee.
2 Pekini Ave, T'bilisi, Georgia
BNKR specialty coffee roasters
A pioneer of the new-wave specialty coffee movement in Tbilisi, this roastery operates out of a sleek laneway space.
- BNKR specialty coffee roastersA pioneer of the new-wave specialty coffee movement in Tbilisi, this roastery operates out of a sleek laneway space.
26 Simon Janashia St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Baba bakery
An artisan bakery that has become a local favorite for its sourdough-based treats and Italian-inspired pastries.
- Baba bakeryAn artisan bakery that has become a local favorite for its sourdough-based treats and Italian-inspired pastries.
4 Ivane Machabeli St, T'bilisi 0105, Georgia
Barbarestan
Known for: 19th-Century Recipe Duck. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- BarbarestanKnown for: 19th-Century Recipe Duck. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: 19th-Century Recipe Duck
D, 132 Davit Aghmashenebeli Ave, T'bilisi 0112, Georgia
Salobie Bia
Known for: Lobio in a Clay Pot. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Salobie BiaKnown for: Lobio in a Clay Pot. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Lobio in a Clay Pot
Rustaveli Theater, 17 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi 0108, Georgia
Kikliko
Known for: Triple Cheese Kikliko. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- KiklikoKnown for: Triple Cheese Kikliko. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Triple Cheese Kikliko
28 Mtskheta St, T'bilisi 0179, Georgia
Retro
Known for: Acharuli Khachapuri. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- RetroKnown for: Acharuli Khachapuri. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Acharuli Khachapuri
1 Davit Gamrekeli St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Dezerter Bazaar
Known for: Churchkhela. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Dezerter BazaarKnown for: Churchkhela. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Churchkhela
5 Abastumani St, T'bilisi, Georgia
Dry Bridge Market
This expansive open-air flea market is the city's premier destination for street and documentary photography.
PR23+96X, Tbilisi, Georgia
Shavi Lomi
28 Zurab Kvlividze St, T'bilisi, Georgia
OtsY • ოცი
20 Ioane Shavteli St, T'bilisi 0105, Georgia
Klike's Khinkali
#1 Shio Chitadze St, T'bilisi 0108, Georgia
Researched by Varedelo
Planning notes for Tbilisi
Must-try foods in Tbilisi
- Acharuli KhachapuriThis iconic 'cheese boat' from the Adjara region remains a non-negotiable Tbilisi staple. In 2026, experts point to Retro as the gold standard, where the molten sulguni and imeruli cheese are topped with a raw egg and a slab of butter, stirred tableside into a rich, gooey center meant for dipping torn bread crusts.
- Triple Cheese KiklikoModern Tbilisi brunch culture is booming, and Kikliko (Georgian French toast) is the star. The 'Triple Cheese' version at the namesake restaurant Kikliko is a 2026 favorite, transforming a humble home-style breakfast into a decadent, savory dish using premium local cheeses and thick-cut bread.
- Badrijani NigvzitA cornerstone of any Georgian 'supra' (feast), these are fried eggplant rolls stuffed with a rich, garlicky walnut paste (nigvzit) and topped with pomegranate seeds. They are a masterclass in the Georgian use of walnuts and are essential for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
- Lobio in a Clay PotThis thick, spiced kidney bean stew is served bubbling hot in a traditional clay jar. Local experts in 2026 recommend Salobie Bia for the most authentic version, which is served with 'mchadi' (cornbread) and sharp pickled vegetables to cut through the earthy richness.
- Pkhali AssortmentA vibrant spread of minced vegetable pâtés (usually spinach, beetroot, or cabbage) mixed with ground walnuts, vinegar, and Georgian spices. It is the essential healthy starter found at top-rated 2026 spots like Shavi Lomi, showcasing the city's talent for plant-based flavors.
- 19th-Century Recipe DuckFor a 'special occasion' dish, Barbarestan remains the 2026 leader, serving dishes reconstructed from a famous 19th-century cookbook by Duchess Barbare Jorjadze. Their duck with cherry or walnut sauce is a sophisticated link between Georgia's aristocratic culinary past and its modern fine-dining present.
Trip guide
Georgia TravelGeorgia TravelThe official tourism website of the Georgian National Tourism Administration, providing travel guides and information for Tbilisi and its historic Old Town.
Where to eat in Tbilisi: the dishes and their linked places.
When to visit Tbilisi
- The best time to visit Tbilisi is during spring (May and June) or autumn (September and October), when temperatures are mild and the city is vibrant with greenery or fall colors. Summer can be uncomfortably hot with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold and grey but rarely see heavy snow. Peak tourist season occurs in July and August, so visiting during the shoulder seasons offers a practical balance of pleasant walking weather and fewer crowds.
Getting around Tbilisi
- International Flights Most travelers arrive at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), which connects to major hubs like Istanbul, Munich, and Paris. Alternatively, budget travelers fly into Kutaisi Airport (KUT) and take a 3.5-hour shuttle bus to Tbilisi.
- Metro and Public Buses Tbilisi's two-line metro system and extensive bus network are the most affordable ways to navigate. You must purchase a rechargeable Metromoney card for 2 GEL to pay for fares, as cash is not accepted on board.
- Ride-Hailing Apps Bolt is the primary ride-sharing service in Tbilisi, offering fixed-price rides that are significantly cheaper and more reliable than hailing street taxis. It is highly recommended for airport transfers and reaching areas not served by the metro.
Things to know before you go
- Download the Bolt app for reliable and affordable taxi rides, as street-hailed taxis often lack meters and may overcharge tourists.
- When eating khinkali (dumplings), hold them by the doughy handle, take a small bite to sip the broth first, and leave the handle on your plate.
- Always carry a small amount of cash in Georgian Lari (GEL) for public transport, small vendors, and tipping, as many card machines do not support adding gratuity.
- Ensure you have valid health and accident insurance for your entire stay, as this is a mandatory entry requirement for all international visitors as of 2026.
What’s new in Tbilisi (September 2026)
- Tbilisi Architecture Biennial 5th Edition: Opening September 25, 2026, this city-wide event themed 'Geography of Emptiness' explores urban transformation through exhibitions at the Open Space Centre and various depopulated sites.
- Tbilisi Outlet Village Grand Opening: Set for September 26, 2026, the region's first international-standard outlet mall debuts with a three-day festival featuring premium global brands and new gastronomic spaces.
- Art Foundation Anagi: A major new private cultural hub recently opened in Vake, combining contemporary art galleries, a restoration workshop, and a cinema featuring the permanent 'Mappa Carographica' exhibition.
- Starbucks Georgia Launch: Following its highly anticipated entry into the market this summer, the first flagship location at Axis Towers on Chavchavadze Avenue is currently the city's viral social spot.
Research receipt
How this Tbilisi guide was researched
- Live web search, 14 of 14 research areas completed.
- Places verified against real place data — address, hours and coordinates come from the place record, not the article.
- Researched September 2026. A newer build for Tbilisi replaces this page automatically.
Sources checked
Planning questions
What is Tbilisi known for?
Discover the beauty and culture of Tbilisi. Enjoy the local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
What should I eat in Tbilisi?
Start with Acharuli Khachapuri, Triple Cheese Kikliko, Badrijani Nigvzit, and Lobio in a Clay Pot. Each dish on this page lists the places known for it.
When is the best time to visit Tbilisi?
The best time to visit Tbilisi is during spring (May and June) or autumn (September and October), when temperatures are mild and the city is vibrant with greenery or fall colors. Summer can be uncomfortably hot with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are cold and grey but rarely see heavy snow.
How do I get around Tbilisi?
Most travelers arrive at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), which connects to major hubs like Istanbul, Munich, and Paris. International Flights; Metro and Public Buses; Ride-Hailing Apps.
How many places are on this Tbilisi map?
33 places, each with an address, hours where known, and a line on why it was picked. The map in the app shows them by status so you can walk to the nearest one.
How was this Tbilisi guide researched?
Live web research across 14 research areas, cross-checked against real place data, citing 24 sources. Researched September 2026.