Tbilisi Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Tbilisi
A gateway to Georgia straddling the Mtkvari (Kura) River, the country's capital Tbilisi is one of the most historic cities in the Caucasus region, dating back over a thousand years. It was founded in the 5th century AD by the monarch of Iberia (Georgia's ancient precursor), King Vakhtang I Gorgasali.
According to legend, the king's falcon found the hot springs, near which the city was eventually established, during a hunt. The name "Tbilisi" comes from the Georgian word "tpili," which means warm and reflects the hot sulfur baths that still exist in the historic part of the city called Abanotubani.
The warmth of the legendary hot springs matches the warm hospitality of Tbilisi itself, which is particularly remarkable considering that, over the centuries, the city has been destroyed and rebuilt 29 times following the invasions by Arabs, Mongols, Persians, Turks, and Russians. Tbilisi became the capital of a unified Georgian Kingdom in the 11th century and has since served as the capital of all Georgian states (including as a part of the Russian Empire, Soviet Republic, etc.) until the country regained independence in 1991.
Despite its turbulent history, the city managed to retain its cultural uniqueness and historical charm. A symbol of new Georgia, the golden-domed Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (also known as Sameba) is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Another marvelous piece of modern architecture is the bow-shaped pedestrian Bridge of Peace that connects the Old Town with Rike Park over the Mtkvari River. From the park, Tbilisi Cable Car provides a scenic ride to the Narikala Fortress, offering spectacular panoramic views of the capital along the way.
Overlooking the river from an elevated cliff is another landmark, the historic 13th-century Metekhi Church. Nearby you will find the equestrian statue of King Gorgasali paying homage to the legendary founder of the city.
In many ways, Tbilisi is a city of contrasts where ancient culture blends with modern lifestyle, and where East and West "harmonize in perfect melody." Some say that Tbilisi is more than just a city but a feeling that captures your heart and never lets it go, creating an enchantment lingering long after you've left its embrace.
We hereby invite you to explore the cobblestone streets of the Georgian capital and fall in love with its charm. An adventurous spirit will surely be delighted to discover the treasure trove of hidden gems and capture the essence of this amazing city on a self-guided walking tour with 911爆料网.
According to legend, the king's falcon found the hot springs, near which the city was eventually established, during a hunt. The name "Tbilisi" comes from the Georgian word "tpili," which means warm and reflects the hot sulfur baths that still exist in the historic part of the city called Abanotubani.
The warmth of the legendary hot springs matches the warm hospitality of Tbilisi itself, which is particularly remarkable considering that, over the centuries, the city has been destroyed and rebuilt 29 times following the invasions by Arabs, Mongols, Persians, Turks, and Russians. Tbilisi became the capital of a unified Georgian Kingdom in the 11th century and has since served as the capital of all Georgian states (including as a part of the Russian Empire, Soviet Republic, etc.) until the country regained independence in 1991.
Despite its turbulent history, the city managed to retain its cultural uniqueness and historical charm. A symbol of new Georgia, the golden-domed Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (also known as Sameba) is one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Another marvelous piece of modern architecture is the bow-shaped pedestrian Bridge of Peace that connects the Old Town with Rike Park over the Mtkvari River. From the park, Tbilisi Cable Car provides a scenic ride to the Narikala Fortress, offering spectacular panoramic views of the capital along the way.
Overlooking the river from an elevated cliff is another landmark, the historic 13th-century Metekhi Church. Nearby you will find the equestrian statue of King Gorgasali paying homage to the legendary founder of the city.
In many ways, Tbilisi is a city of contrasts where ancient culture blends with modern lifestyle, and where East and West "harmonize in perfect melody." Some say that Tbilisi is more than just a city but a feeling that captures your heart and never lets it go, creating an enchantment lingering long after you've left its embrace.
We hereby invite you to explore the cobblestone streets of the Georgian capital and fall in love with its charm. An adventurous spirit will surely be delighted to discover the treasure trove of hidden gems and capture the essence of this amazing city on a self-guided walking tour with 911爆料网.
How it works: Download the app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Tbilisi Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Tbilisi Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Georgia » Tbilisi (See other walking tours in Tbilisi)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Georgia » Tbilisi (See other walking tours in Tbilisi)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 11
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
- Rike Park
- Bridge of Peace
- Tbilisi Cable Car
- Metekhi Church
- Monument of King Vakhtang Gorgasali
- Metekhi Bridge
- Meidan Square
- Abanotubani
- Narikala Fortress
- Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia)
1) Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (must see)
The Holy Trinity Cathedral, known locally as Sameba, stands as one of the defining symbols of modern Georgia鈥攁n architectural and spiritual masterpiece crowning Elia Hill and overlooking the Kura River. Completed in 2004 after nearly a decade of construction, the cathedral was conceived in the years following Georgia鈥檚 independence as a monument of hope, unity, and faith. Its golden dome dominates the skyline, visible from almost every corner of the city, symbolizing the rebirth of the Georgian Orthodox Church after decades of suppression during the Soviet era.
Given the nation was trying to rebuild its identity, the cathedral could not be half-baked. Thus, an international contest was organized in 1989. The winner had to take on the challenge of making the Georgian nation proud. Due to civil unrest, the foundation was not laid until 1995. The final product combines traditional Georgian ecclesiastical styles with subtle modern influences, reflecting the country鈥檚 balance between heritage and progress. The chosen site, once home to an old Armenian cemetery destroyed during Soviet rule, added layers of historical resonance.
Local memory often recalls the day of the cathedral鈥檚 consecration in 2004, when thousands of citizens climbed the hill to witness the ceremony. Many carried candles, shielding the flames from the wind as the Patriarch blessed the new church. As the third tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral worldwide, it clearly became a reference point for the rebirth of the Georgian spirit. Now it is all yours to see.
Sameba remains not only a place of worship but a cultural landmark. Tourists can explore its grand interior, illuminated by soft natural light and frescoes depicting Georgian saints and kings, or stroll the surrounding gardens and terraces offering panoramic views of Tbilisi.
Given the nation was trying to rebuild its identity, the cathedral could not be half-baked. Thus, an international contest was organized in 1989. The winner had to take on the challenge of making the Georgian nation proud. Due to civil unrest, the foundation was not laid until 1995. The final product combines traditional Georgian ecclesiastical styles with subtle modern influences, reflecting the country鈥檚 balance between heritage and progress. The chosen site, once home to an old Armenian cemetery destroyed during Soviet rule, added layers of historical resonance.
Local memory often recalls the day of the cathedral鈥檚 consecration in 2004, when thousands of citizens climbed the hill to witness the ceremony. Many carried candles, shielding the flames from the wind as the Patriarch blessed the new church. As the third tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral worldwide, it clearly became a reference point for the rebirth of the Georgian spirit. Now it is all yours to see.
Sameba remains not only a place of worship but a cultural landmark. Tourists can explore its grand interior, illuminated by soft natural light and frescoes depicting Georgian saints and kings, or stroll the surrounding gardens and terraces offering panoramic views of Tbilisi.
2) Rike Park
Rike鈥疨ark is a vivid illustration of how a city can re-imagine its past to inspire its future. Laid out in 2010 on a long-neglected lowland once formed by the shifting course of the Kura River, the park鈥檚 name comes from the Georgian word rike meaning 鈥渟ands.鈥�
Walking through Rike Park, you鈥檒l notice first how it serves as a bridge between eras. From its grassy lawns you can step directly onto the sleek glass-and-steel Bridge鈥痮f鈥疨eace, which arches toward the city鈥檚 Old Town. To one side lie the ancient terraced hillside and fortress, to the other, modern towers and riverside cafes.
Interestingly, when the park was unveiled, many Tbilisians compared its futuristic structures to foreign landmarks鈥攕ome even joking it resembled a spaceship parked by the river. Yet, much like the once-controversial Eiffel Tower in Paris, Rike Park soon won the hearts of locals and visitors alike, becoming a beloved symbol of the city鈥檚 renewal.
Today the park invites you to pause and play: stroll past its open-air chess board with giant pieces, catch an evening fountain show lit by thousands of LEDs, or hop on the nearby cable car for a dramatic ride up to the hillside fortress. With decorative gardens, public art, shaded paths and river views, Rike Park is both a restful green space and a dynamic gathering place.
Walking through Rike Park, you鈥檒l notice first how it serves as a bridge between eras. From its grassy lawns you can step directly onto the sleek glass-and-steel Bridge鈥痮f鈥疨eace, which arches toward the city鈥檚 Old Town. To one side lie the ancient terraced hillside and fortress, to the other, modern towers and riverside cafes.
Interestingly, when the park was unveiled, many Tbilisians compared its futuristic structures to foreign landmarks鈥攕ome even joking it resembled a spaceship parked by the river. Yet, much like the once-controversial Eiffel Tower in Paris, Rike Park soon won the hearts of locals and visitors alike, becoming a beloved symbol of the city鈥檚 renewal.
Today the park invites you to pause and play: stroll past its open-air chess board with giant pieces, catch an evening fountain show lit by thousands of LEDs, or hop on the nearby cable car for a dramatic ride up to the hillside fortress. With decorative gardens, public art, shaded paths and river views, Rike Park is both a restful green space and a dynamic gathering place.
3) Bridge of Peace (must see)
The Bridge of Peace is one of the city鈥檚 most modern landmarks, symbolizing the connection between Georgia鈥檚 ancient past and its dynamic present. Opened in 2010, the pedestrian bridge spans the Kura River, linking the historic Old Town on one side with the modern districts on the other. The bridge was envisioned as a gesture of unity 鈥� a literal and symbolic link between generations, cultures, and eras.
The structure itself is an architectural marvel. Its curved steel and glass canopy resembles a graceful wave or a giant marine creature floating over the water. What makes it particularly captivating is its illuminated LED lighting system. Each night, thousands of sensors and lights sparkle across the bridge in mesmerizing patterns. Remarkably, the light patterns are not random. The bridge's name gets honored thanks to the sequences that spell out messages in Morse code celebrating life and peace.
Photography enthusiasts will also appreciate how the bridge鈥檚 futuristic silhouette contrasts beautifully with the centuries-old stone buildings of the Old Town. It serves not only as a functional crossing but also as a bold architectural statement that enhances the cityscape.
Crossing the Bridge of Peace offers a unique vantage point to take in panoramic views of the Rike Park, Metekhi Church, and Narikala Fortress 鈥� especially at sunset, when the reflections of the city shimmer on the water. The bridge has also become a popular gathering place for locals, street musicians, and visitors alike, embodying the vibrancy and openness of modern Tbilisi.
The structure itself is an architectural marvel. Its curved steel and glass canopy resembles a graceful wave or a giant marine creature floating over the water. What makes it particularly captivating is its illuminated LED lighting system. Each night, thousands of sensors and lights sparkle across the bridge in mesmerizing patterns. Remarkably, the light patterns are not random. The bridge's name gets honored thanks to the sequences that spell out messages in Morse code celebrating life and peace.
Photography enthusiasts will also appreciate how the bridge鈥檚 futuristic silhouette contrasts beautifully with the centuries-old stone buildings of the Old Town. It serves not only as a functional crossing but also as a bold architectural statement that enhances the cityscape.
Crossing the Bridge of Peace offers a unique vantage point to take in panoramic views of the Rike Park, Metekhi Church, and Narikala Fortress 鈥� especially at sunset, when the reflections of the city shimmer on the water. The bridge has also become a popular gathering place for locals, street musicians, and visitors alike, embodying the vibrancy and openness of modern Tbilisi.
4) Tbilisi Cable Car (must see)
The Tbilisi Cable Car is one of the most popular ways to experience the Georgian capital from above, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city鈥檚 blend of old and new. Opened in 2012, the cable car connects Rike Park, located near the Kura River, with the summit of Sololaki Hill. Its introduction marked an important step in Tbilisi鈥檚 modernization efforts, improving access to one of the city鈥檚 most historic and scenic areas.
While Tbilisi had earlier cableway systems dating back to the 1950s Soviet era, most of those were shut down for safety concerns. The last straw came when one of the cables snapped on June 1st, 1990. Nineteen people lost their lives, and Tbilisi vowed never to let such a tragedy happen again. Although it took some time, the result was worth it. The new Rike鈥揘arikala cable car system was built using modern Austrian technology, ensuring both comfort and safety, and it quickly became a symbol of the city鈥檚 revival.
The short ride 鈥� just a few minutes long 鈥� is a memorable experience in itself. As the cabins ascend over the Old Town, passengers are treated to sweeping views of Rike Park, the Bridge of Peace, Metekhi Church, and the rooftops of Tbilisi鈥檚 colorful houses. At the top, the Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue await, both offering stunning vantage points and rich historical context.
While Tbilisi had earlier cableway systems dating back to the 1950s Soviet era, most of those were shut down for safety concerns. The last straw came when one of the cables snapped on June 1st, 1990. Nineteen people lost their lives, and Tbilisi vowed never to let such a tragedy happen again. Although it took some time, the result was worth it. The new Rike鈥揘arikala cable car system was built using modern Austrian technology, ensuring both comfort and safety, and it quickly became a symbol of the city鈥檚 revival.
The short ride 鈥� just a few minutes long 鈥� is a memorable experience in itself. As the cabins ascend over the Old Town, passengers are treated to sweeping views of Rike Park, the Bridge of Peace, Metekhi Church, and the rooftops of Tbilisi鈥檚 colorful houses. At the top, the Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue await, both offering stunning vantage points and rich historical context.
5) Metekhi Church
The Metekhi Church of the Assumption is one of Tbilisi鈥檚 most historically significant and visually captivating landmarks. Its commanding position atop a cliff overlooking the Kura River makes it a symbol of the city鈥檚 deep Christian roots. According to tradition, the original church was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi, who also established his royal residence nearby. The current structure, however, dates back to the 13th century, during the reign of King Demetrius II of Georgia, after earlier versions were destroyed by invasions and fires.
Throughout the centuries, Metekhi Church has witnessed much of Georgia鈥檚 turbulent history. It served not only as a place of worship but also as a fortress due to its strategic position above the river. During the Russian imperial period, the church compound was repurposed 鈥� at one point even turned into a prison 鈥� and suffered significant damage. Restoration efforts in the 20th century helped return it to its original religious function.
Architecturally, Metekhi is a classic example of Georgian medieval design, featuring a cross-in-square layout built from reddish-brown tuff stone, with a dome rising above a rectangular base. Its simplicity and harmony reflect the spiritual austerity characteristic of Georgian ecclesiastical art.
The church鈥檚 clifftop terrace provides one of the best panoramic views of Tbilisi鈥檚 Old Town, the Bridge of Peace, and Rike Park below. Nearby stands the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, who gazes toward the city he founded. Together, the church and statue form a timeless tableau that beautifully captures the soul of Tbilisi.
Throughout the centuries, Metekhi Church has witnessed much of Georgia鈥檚 turbulent history. It served not only as a place of worship but also as a fortress due to its strategic position above the river. During the Russian imperial period, the church compound was repurposed 鈥� at one point even turned into a prison 鈥� and suffered significant damage. Restoration efforts in the 20th century helped return it to its original religious function.
Architecturally, Metekhi is a classic example of Georgian medieval design, featuring a cross-in-square layout built from reddish-brown tuff stone, with a dome rising above a rectangular base. Its simplicity and harmony reflect the spiritual austerity characteristic of Georgian ecclesiastical art.
The church鈥檚 clifftop terrace provides one of the best panoramic views of Tbilisi鈥檚 Old Town, the Bridge of Peace, and Rike Park below. Nearby stands the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, who gazes toward the city he founded. Together, the church and statue form a timeless tableau that beautifully captures the soul of Tbilisi.
6) Monument of King Vakhtang Gorgasali
The Monument of King Vakhtang Gorgasali stands proudly beside the Metekhi Church. Erected in 1967, the statue honors King Vakhtang I Gorgasali, the legendary 5th-century monarch credited with founding Tbilisi. According to Georgian tradition, it was Gorgasali who chose the city鈥檚 location after his falcon, during a hunting trip, caught a pheasant that fell into a hot spring and was cooked 鈥� inspiring the name Tbilisi, meaning 鈥渨arm place.鈥�
The equestrian statue depicts the king mounted on horseback, gazing resolutely over the city he established. His raised hand, extended forward, symbolizes both protection and leadership鈥攅mbodying the courage and vision of a ruler who fortified Georgia during an era marked by regional rivalries. In Gorgasali鈥檚 time, the Caucasus was a crossroads of empires鈥擝yzantine, Persian, and later Arab鈥攁ll competing for control. The king navigated these pressures with diplomacy and strength, defending Georgia鈥檚 independence and Christian faith while transforming Tbilisi into a thriving political and cultural center.
The monument is also a prime vantage point for photography and city views. From this spot, one can admire the sweeping panorama of the Old Town, all framed by the rolling hills beyond. The site鈥檚 proximity to the Metekhi Church of the Assumption adds to its historical resonance.
Surrounding the monument, there is a small park area with benches, providing a tranquil space for locals and visitors to relax. Having the statue at your side, one cannot help but put themselves in the king's shoes, imagining the founding day of the city full of cheering and applause.
The equestrian statue depicts the king mounted on horseback, gazing resolutely over the city he established. His raised hand, extended forward, symbolizes both protection and leadership鈥攅mbodying the courage and vision of a ruler who fortified Georgia during an era marked by regional rivalries. In Gorgasali鈥檚 time, the Caucasus was a crossroads of empires鈥擝yzantine, Persian, and later Arab鈥攁ll competing for control. The king navigated these pressures with diplomacy and strength, defending Georgia鈥檚 independence and Christian faith while transforming Tbilisi into a thriving political and cultural center.
The monument is also a prime vantage point for photography and city views. From this spot, one can admire the sweeping panorama of the Old Town, all framed by the rolling hills beyond. The site鈥檚 proximity to the Metekhi Church of the Assumption adds to its historical resonance.
Surrounding the monument, there is a small park area with benches, providing a tranquil space for locals and visitors to relax. Having the statue at your side, one cannot help but put themselves in the king's shoes, imagining the founding day of the city full of cheering and applause.
7) Metekhi Bridge
Metekhi Bridge, located in the old part of Tbilisi, is a historic bridge named after one hundred thousand Georgian martyrs. Its location, beneath the cliffs of Metekhi, is deeply symbolic 鈥� marking the very heart of Tbilisi鈥檚 origin story.
The first bridge at this site is believed to have been built in ancient or early medieval times, as the river crossing near the royal citadel was vital for trade, travel, and defense. Over the centuries, the structure has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, often as a result of wars, floods, and invasions. The current version, constructed during the 20th century, replaced an older wooden bridge that had long served the area.
The tragic story that gave the bridge its name dates back to 1226, when the Central Asian ruler Jalal ad-Din captured Tbilisi. He ordered the city鈥檚 Christians to trample on their sacred icons; those who refused were executed on the bridge. This event is commemorated by the Georgian Orthodox Church each year, and the victims are known as the "Hundred Thousand Martyrs."
For visitors, the Metekhi Bridge offers more than just a crossing 鈥� it provides some of the most scenic views in the city. Standing on the bridge, one can admire the colorful rooftops of the Old Town unfolding along the riverbanks. The area around the bridge is bustling with various cafes, restaurants, and hotels, providing opportunities to savor the delicious flavors of Georgian cuisine and enjoy a pleasant time.
The first bridge at this site is believed to have been built in ancient or early medieval times, as the river crossing near the royal citadel was vital for trade, travel, and defense. Over the centuries, the structure has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, often as a result of wars, floods, and invasions. The current version, constructed during the 20th century, replaced an older wooden bridge that had long served the area.
The tragic story that gave the bridge its name dates back to 1226, when the Central Asian ruler Jalal ad-Din captured Tbilisi. He ordered the city鈥檚 Christians to trample on their sacred icons; those who refused were executed on the bridge. This event is commemorated by the Georgian Orthodox Church each year, and the victims are known as the "Hundred Thousand Martyrs."
For visitors, the Metekhi Bridge offers more than just a crossing 鈥� it provides some of the most scenic views in the city. Standing on the bridge, one can admire the colorful rooftops of the Old Town unfolding along the riverbanks. The area around the bridge is bustling with various cafes, restaurants, and hotels, providing opportunities to savor the delicious flavors of Georgian cuisine and enjoy a pleasant time.
8) Meidan Square
Meidan Square's significance can be inferred straight out its name. The word 鈥渕eidan鈥� comes from Persian, meaning 鈥渟quare鈥� or 鈥渙pen place,鈥� reflecting the influence of Persian culture during different periods of Georgia鈥檚 history. For centuries, this square served as the commercial and social hub of Tbilisi. Traders from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East gathered to exchange goods such as silk, spices, carpets, and wine along the ancient Silk Road routes that passed through the city.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Meidan became known as a bustling district, filled with inns, stables, and markets catering to travelers and merchants. The area was alive with the sound of negotiations, the scent of foreign spices, and the chatter of different languages. Under Russian rule in the 19th century, the square evolved further, as brick-built shops, taverns, and merchant houses replaced older wooden structures, giving the area a new architectural character that reshaped the face of Tbilisi.
Today, Meidan Square remains a lively gathering point, though its role has shifted from trade to tourism and leisure. Lined with caf茅s, restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries, it鈥檚 a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to relax and soak in the city鈥檚 atmosphere.
Beneath the square lies a fascinating secret 鈥� the Meidan Underground Museum, which showcases the archaeological remains of old Tbilisi, including sections of the city鈥檚 ancient streets and bathhouse systems. Do not be disappointed though, as present day Sulfur Baths can be found around the square. Bring a towel and enjoy.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Meidan became known as a bustling district, filled with inns, stables, and markets catering to travelers and merchants. The area was alive with the sound of negotiations, the scent of foreign spices, and the chatter of different languages. Under Russian rule in the 19th century, the square evolved further, as brick-built shops, taverns, and merchant houses replaced older wooden structures, giving the area a new architectural character that reshaped the face of Tbilisi.
Today, Meidan Square remains a lively gathering point, though its role has shifted from trade to tourism and leisure. Lined with caf茅s, restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries, it鈥檚 a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to relax and soak in the city鈥檚 atmosphere.
Beneath the square lies a fascinating secret 鈥� the Meidan Underground Museum, which showcases the archaeological remains of old Tbilisi, including sections of the city鈥檚 ancient streets and bathhouse systems. Do not be disappointed though, as present day Sulfur Baths can be found around the square. Bring a towel and enjoy.
9) Abanotubani
The Abanotubani district is famous for its sulfur baths, which have been an essential part of Tbilisi鈥檚 identity for centuries. In fact, this area is the very reason the city exists as it does today 鈥� after all, 鈥渢bili鈥� means 鈥渨arm.鈥�
The thermal springs beneath Abanotubani have been flowing for more than a thousand years, and the bathhouses that channel them date back to at least the 17th century, with some structures built even earlier. During the Persian and later Russian periods, the baths were frequented by nobles, merchants, and travelers from all over the region, becoming not only places of hygiene but also centers of relaxation, conversation, and diplomacy. The area鈥檚 most distinctive architectural feature is its domed brick roofs, which rise like small mounds from the earth, allowing steam from the sulfur-rich waters to escape into the air.
Today, Abanotubani remains one of the most beloved attractions in Tbilisi. Visitors can still enjoy a soak in one of the many historic bathhouses, some of which, like the Orbeliani Bathhouse, are beautifully decorated with blue-tiled facades reminiscent of Persian design. The neighborhood surrounding the baths is also a delight to explore, filled with narrow streets, colorful balconies, art shops, and caf茅s.
Beyond its charm, Abanotubani is a microcosm of Tbilisi鈥檚 multicultural spirit. Within its compact area stand Georgian Orthodox, Armenian, and Catholic churches, as well as a mosque 鈥� a reflection of centuries of coexistence. The district may be small, but it gathers all walks of life in a steamy, warm atmosphere.
The thermal springs beneath Abanotubani have been flowing for more than a thousand years, and the bathhouses that channel them date back to at least the 17th century, with some structures built even earlier. During the Persian and later Russian periods, the baths were frequented by nobles, merchants, and travelers from all over the region, becoming not only places of hygiene but also centers of relaxation, conversation, and diplomacy. The area鈥檚 most distinctive architectural feature is its domed brick roofs, which rise like small mounds from the earth, allowing steam from the sulfur-rich waters to escape into the air.
Today, Abanotubani remains one of the most beloved attractions in Tbilisi. Visitors can still enjoy a soak in one of the many historic bathhouses, some of which, like the Orbeliani Bathhouse, are beautifully decorated with blue-tiled facades reminiscent of Persian design. The neighborhood surrounding the baths is also a delight to explore, filled with narrow streets, colorful balconies, art shops, and caf茅s.
Beyond its charm, Abanotubani is a microcosm of Tbilisi鈥檚 multicultural spirit. Within its compact area stand Georgian Orthodox, Armenian, and Catholic churches, as well as a mosque 鈥� a reflection of centuries of coexistence. The district may be small, but it gathers all walks of life in a steamy, warm atmosphere.
10) Narikala Fortress (must see)
The Narikala Fortress is often referred to as the 鈥渉eart of Tbilisi.鈥� Narikala dates back to the 4th century, when it was originally built as a Persian citadel to protect the developing settlement below. Over the centuries, it has been expanded, destroyed, and rebuilt by a succession of powers 鈥� Arabs, Mongols, Persians, and Georgians 鈥� each leaving traces of their influence on its ancient walls.
The fortress gained particular importance in the 7th and 8th centuries, when it served as a stronghold for the Arab emirs who ruled Tbilisi, and again during the medieval Georgian Kingdom, when it became the city鈥檚 main defensive structure. The name 鈥淣arikala鈥� itself is believed to come from the Persian words 鈥淣arin Qala,鈥� meaning 鈥淟ittle Fortress.鈥�
In the 17th century, under Persian occupation, the fortress underwent major reconstruction, giving it much of its present-day form. Unfortunately, a massive explosion in 1827 鈥� caused by the detonation of a gunpowder storage depot inside the fortress 鈥� destroyed large sections of it. What remains today are impressive stone ramparts, towers, and fragments of defensive walls that still evoke the power and strategic importance Narikala once held.
Like any other self-respecting medieval fort, Narikala oversees the entire riverside from above. The fortress's dominating position can be reached on foot through the winding alleys of the Old Town or by taking the cable car from Rike Park, which glides over the Kura River and provides a spectacular aerial perspective of the city.
That is not all the fortress has to offer. Within its grounds stands the reconstructed St. Nicholas Church, built in the 1990s on the site of an older medieval church that had been destroyed by fire. The interior is decorated with vivid frescoes depicting both biblical scenes and moments from Georgia鈥檚 national history.
The fortress gained particular importance in the 7th and 8th centuries, when it served as a stronghold for the Arab emirs who ruled Tbilisi, and again during the medieval Georgian Kingdom, when it became the city鈥檚 main defensive structure. The name 鈥淣arikala鈥� itself is believed to come from the Persian words 鈥淣arin Qala,鈥� meaning 鈥淟ittle Fortress.鈥�
In the 17th century, under Persian occupation, the fortress underwent major reconstruction, giving it much of its present-day form. Unfortunately, a massive explosion in 1827 鈥� caused by the detonation of a gunpowder storage depot inside the fortress 鈥� destroyed large sections of it. What remains today are impressive stone ramparts, towers, and fragments of defensive walls that still evoke the power and strategic importance Narikala once held.
Like any other self-respecting medieval fort, Narikala oversees the entire riverside from above. The fortress's dominating position can be reached on foot through the winding alleys of the Old Town or by taking the cable car from Rike Park, which glides over the Kura River and provides a spectacular aerial perspective of the city.
That is not all the fortress has to offer. Within its grounds stands the reconstructed St. Nicholas Church, built in the 1990s on the site of an older medieval church that had been destroyed by fire. The interior is decorated with vivid frescoes depicting both biblical scenes and moments from Georgia鈥檚 national history.
11) Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia)
The Mother of Georgia is one of Tbilisi鈥檚 most recognizable landmarks 鈥� a towering symbol of the Georgian spirit that overlooks the city from the Sololaki Hill. The monumental statue was erected in 1958, on the occasion of Tbilisi鈥檚 1500th anniversary. Standing 20 meters tall and made of aluminum, the figure represents a woman dressed in traditional Georgian attire, embodying both the strength and hospitality of the nation.
The Mother of Georgia carries a sword in her right hand and a bowl of wine in her left 鈥� a dual symbolism that captures Georgia鈥檚 historical character. The wine is offered as a gesture of welcome to friends, while the sword stands ready for those who come as enemies. This contrast reflects the Georgian people鈥檚 deep-rooted traditions of warmth, courage, and pride.
Just like for the Narikala fortress, the statue is easily accessible by foot or by the cable car from Rike Park, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the area. At sunset, the aluminum figure glows against the darkening sky, proving why the material was the perfect choice. All these elements were hard not to notice. Thus, the sculptor's exceptional work on the sculpture earned him the prestigious Shota Rustaveli State Prize in 1966.
Beyond its artistic and symbolic value, Mother of Georgia has become an integral part of Tbilisi鈥檚 identity. To locals, she is more than a statue 鈥� she is a personification of Georgia itself, embodying the nation鈥檚 resilience, pride, and enduring spirit.
The Mother of Georgia carries a sword in her right hand and a bowl of wine in her left 鈥� a dual symbolism that captures Georgia鈥檚 historical character. The wine is offered as a gesture of welcome to friends, while the sword stands ready for those who come as enemies. This contrast reflects the Georgian people鈥檚 deep-rooted traditions of warmth, courage, and pride.
Just like for the Narikala fortress, the statue is easily accessible by foot or by the cable car from Rike Park, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the area. At sunset, the aluminum figure glows against the darkening sky, proving why the material was the perfect choice. All these elements were hard not to notice. Thus, the sculptor's exceptional work on the sculpture earned him the prestigious Shota Rustaveli State Prize in 1966.
Beyond its artistic and symbolic value, Mother of Georgia has become an integral part of Tbilisi鈥檚 identity. To locals, she is more than a statue 鈥� she is a personification of Georgia itself, embodying the nation鈥檚 resilience, pride, and enduring spirit.
Walking Tours in Tbilisi, Georgia
Create Your Own Walk in Tbilisi
Creating your own self-guided walk in Tbilisi is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Tbilisi Introduction Walking Tour Version 2
Alternative version of Tbilisi introduction walk.
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Rustaveli Avenue Walking Tour
If Tbilisi is the heart of Georgia, then Rustaveli Avenue is its pulse. As the capital's main artery, the importance 鈥� historical, cultural, or architectural 鈥� of this vibrant and bustling thoroughfare is hard to overestimate.
Named after the renowned medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, the avenue starts from Freedom Square 鈥� a key downtown landmark, home to the iconic statue of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Named after the renowned medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, the avenue starts from Freedom Square 鈥� a key downtown landmark, home to the iconic statue of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
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