Things to do in  Tbilisi

Once a Persian citadel, the ancient Narikala Fortress dominates the Tbilisi skyline. Established in the fourth century, it was expanded in the seventh, 16th, and 17th centuries, before much of it was destroyed in an explosion in 1827. The view from the fortress is one of the best in the Georgian capital.

Despite having undergone countless reconstructions over the centuries, Tbilisi’s Old Town has somehow retained its picturesque charm. With a colorful blend of Eastern and Western styles, the district’s cobblestone streets, ancient landmarks, and beautiful balconies draw architecture, history, and culture enthusiasts from around the world.

Opened in 2012, Tbilisi’s aerial tramway connects Rike Park on the left bank of the Mtkvari river to the Narikala Fortress. Savor 360-degree views of the Georgian capital while the cable car whisks you to the top of Sololaki Hill.

Situated on the left bank of the Mtkvari River, Metekhi Church is one of Tbilisi’s key religious landmarks. First built in the 13th century, and located where ancient Georgian ruler Vakhtang I Gorgasali was said to have established Tbilisi in the 5th century, the church is a popular destination among history buffs and religious devotees.

The tallest church in Tbilisi, the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba) is an unmissable feature of the Tbilisi skyline: its golden dome rises out from Elia Hill and is visible from almost any point in the city. The stunning structure is part of a complex that includes a monastery, theology school, and nine chapels (including five underground).

Considered one of the most sacred places in all of Georgia, the Jvari Monastery is a medieval Georgian Orthodox monastery outside the small city of Mtskheta. Stone carvings decorate the interior of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 7th century, while its hilltop position provides views over the meeting of Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.

One of the world’s steepest funiculars, the Tbilisi Funicular connects the Georgian capital with the Mtatsminda Plateau. Built in 1905 and reopened in 2012 following renovations, the funicular connects Tbilisi with the mountaintop Mtatsminda Park, which comprises a restaurant complex, an amusement park, and a TV tower.

With a carriage from Stalin’s personal train and his childhood home relocated outside, the Joseph Stalin Museum in Gori doesn’t do half measures. Statues, portraits, and personal effects around this dark tourism museum tell the life story of the former leader of the Soviet Union, who was born in this small Georgian city.

Legends surround Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an Orthodox cathedral inside a walled complex in the heart of Mtskheta. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands unchanged from when it was built in the 1100s and still bears colorful frescoes across its hallowed walls, including on the pillar marking where Christ’s robe is said to be buried.

Mtatsminda Park was once the third-most-visited entertainment center in the USSR. Today, the family-friendly landscaped park—with its carousels, waterslides, roller coaster, and Ferris wheel—remains a popular destination for travelers and locals looking for a day of fun and leisure.

Established in the sixth century by one of the 13 Assyrian Fathers, this rock-cut monastery complex has 19 medieval monasteries, churches, chapels, and thousands of cells where monks once lived. It’s among Georgia's most important archaeological sites and is currently under consideration to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Immerse yourself in Georgia’s rich and fascinating history at the Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia, part of the National Museum of Georgia. Home to one of the country’s largest collections of artifacts, this Tbilisi museum brings ancient and modern history to life.

Tbilisi means “warm place” in Old Georgian, so it’s little wonder that the capital is famed for its thermal waters. People have congregated in the city’s hot baths for centuries, originally to seek treatment for medical conditions like indigestion and arthritis. These days, the Tbilisi Sulphur Baths—located within the district of Abanotubani—have become an indispensable stop on any trip to the Georgian capital.

Designed by French architects, this historic wine estate dates back to the end of the 19th century. Once home to the Georgian royal family Bagrationi, it has been a wine estate for more than a century. Near Tbilisi, Château Mukhrani is a popular day trip for wine tastings, cellar and palace tours, and traditional Georgian food.

Designed by French architects, this historic wine estate dates back to the end of the 19th century. Once home to the Georgian royal family Bagrationi, it has been a wine estate for more than a century. Near Tbilisi, Château Mukhrani is a popular day trip for wine tastings, cellar and palace tours, and traditional Georgian food.