7 Things to See In Tbilisi

Straddled between Asia and Europe, Tbilisi is that vital bridge between the East and the West. It offers a distinct yet eclectic blend of Eurasia – from architecture to food, customs to commodities. It sits on the hills flanking the Mtkvari River, and is aptly and fondly called “the Balcony of Europe.” True enough, there are lots of different things any spectator would enjoy beholding in this vibrant city. Here’s a sneak peak.

#1 Narikala

Gaze at this historic fortress that has been around since the time of the city’s foundation, dating back to the 4^th century A.D.

Renovated various times by the Arab Umayyads, by King David IV (the Builder) and by the Mongols, this once great citadel is a testament of Tbilisi’s antiquity. Though portions of it are crumbling, there are fascinating frescos inside showing scenes from the Bible and historical events in Georgia.

You can also climb the stone tower – be careful though as the steps are steep and narrow. Be sure you’re fit and lithe so you can make it to the top which, by the way, rewards successful climbers with beautiful, panoramic views of the city below.

#2 Old Tbilisi

At the foot of the hill below Narikala is the famous Old Town, which is known for its winding narrow streets, balconied brick homes and romantic riverside walkways.

This area is home to two of the city’s oldest churches, and plays hosts to a smattering of synagogues and mosques. Parts of it have been spruced up though, so lots of modern clubs, restaurants, wine shops and even art galleries line the area. The result is a diverse, funky mix of winding alleyways typical of an Asian or Arabic town, interspersed with classical Russian buildings and art nouveau architecture.

It’s a wonderful place to stroll, shop and take photographs.

#3 Thermal Baths

Who would pass up a hot bath? No one in Tbilisi would as sulphur baths are the favorite haunt of both locals and visitors.

The naturally occurring mineral springs in Abanotubani, just north of the Old Town, are affordable and offer different levels of comfort and beauty. The Orbeliani bath, also known as the Blue Bath, is said to be the loveliest, with minarets on each side and a façade of blue mosaic tiles from top to bottom.

The name Tbilisi actually means “hot springs” in a local dialect. At a constant temperature of 38 to 40 degrees Celcius, the baths have been valued for their healing properties and therapeutic benefits by those suffering from arthritis and skin ailments. However, just going there to relax, get a massage and mingle is enough reason for anyone.

The baths have in fact traditionally been a place for socializing, being a popular venue for parties, wedding engagements and important social occasions. If you prefer privacy though, there are private steam rooms available.

#4 Dry Bridge Market

On the hunt for unique souvenirs? You might find things to tickle your fancy at the Dry Bridge Market, where all sorts of antiques, jewelry, china, glass and silverware are laid out on the ground for bargain and/or treasure hunters to examine.

Expect to see all kinds of curios and unlikely items, from accordions to daggers to shaggy hats.  Best to visit on weekends when there are more sellers, but the bazaar is still open on weekdays from 10:00-17:00, weather permitting.  And remember, since it’s a flea market, it won’t hurt to haggle.

#5 Turtle Lake

A well-loved vacation place for both Georgians and tourists, the lake was named due to an abundance of turtles reportedly seen in the area many, many years ago. You can hire a paddleboat and go kayaking, or relax on the pebble beach enjoying the woodland scenery.

The lake is 800m above sea level so the air is always fresh and crisp. There are tables, umbrellas and chaise lounges on which to recline, and a smattering of cafes and bars in which to chill.

#6 Open Air Museum of Ethnography

This is probably the most fascinating, unique and complex attraction in Tbilisi.

This sprawling 52-hectare property is a diverse collection of Georgian village life and artifacts from different parts and eras of the republic. Classified into 11 zones, the area houses 70 buildings showcasing various types of Georgian dwelling: Fiat-roofed stone houses from the East, wooden homes with gable roofs from the West, watchtowers from the mountain provinces, a 19^th century log house from the kingdom of Imereti, and a famous reconstruction of a darbazi, or an ancient dugout-like abode where Georgians hid during the Turkish invasion of the Middle Ages. Depicting real, everyday village life are various barns, stables, wine cellars, watermills, maize storage, a hunting lodge, and a forge where tourists can watch a live blacksmith demonstrating how Georgian weapons were fabricated.

There’s also a diverse collection of crafts and traditional house ware, from distaffs and knitting frames to furniture, carpets and pottery.

You can spend hours walking around and witnessing Georgia’s rich heritage, in full-color and life-size, tangible “reality.” It truly is a walking history class on epic times gone by.

#7 Mtatsminda Park

You can’t miss this popular amusement park that has a 210 meter-high TV tower for an icon.

The 1-kilometer family park, also called “Bombora,” is situated atop Mount Mtatsminda and was the third most visited public park in the former Soviet Union when Georgia was still a part of it – Gorky Park in Moscow being the number one.

It has waterslides, carousels, a roller-coaster, a firing range (using pellet guns) and a giant slow-moving Ferris Wheel at the edge of a hill. Said to be the highest in Europe, the ride takes about 13minutes to complete, giving passengers ample time to sink in the spectacular view of the city and the surrounding snow-capped Caucasus mountains.

The city lights are enchanting at night, and views of Tbilisi are still beautiful even on a cloudy day. To reach the park, the best and most scenic way is to go on the funicular.