5 Reasons to Visit Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi is growing in popularity with travellers for its affordability, hospitality, beautiful architecture, and interesting history.
It is the most popular destination in the country, attracting 2.5 million people annually, and the figure is expected to grow.
Of course, you might be eager to find out what all the fuss is about before you book a flight. To find out if it’s the right destination for you, here are five reasons to visit Tbilisi in Georgia.
1. Explore Its Fascinating History
You’ll fall in love with Tbilisi’s cobblestoned streets, as they offer a mix of Eastern and Western architecture and ancient landmarks, reflecting the city’s periods under Russian and Persian rule.
If you’re looking for first-time travel tips for Tbisili, we recommend visiting one of the oldest landmarks in the Georgian capital: Freedom Square.
It is a smart place to start sightseeing in the city, as it has been home to various political, historical, and cultural events.
For instance, it has served as a gathering place for numerous protests, political demonstrations, celebrations, and historical moments.
One historical sight that’s almost impossible to miss is Narikala Fortress, as it sits on a hill high above the city.
Built during the 4th century, it is one of the oldest landmarks in Tbilisi and features two fortified sections flanked by a botanical garden and sulfur baths.
Of course, if you want to learn more about Tbilisi’s history and culture, visit the Tbilisi History Museum to explore various exhibitions and artefacts from various periods, including its connections to the Byzantine, Ottoman, and Russian Empires.
2. Delicious Georgian Cuisine
Expect to fall in love with Georgian cuisine during your time in Tbilisi, as it offers hearty dishes born from its cultural and historical influences.
If you only sink your teeth into one dish throughout the trip, make it Khachapuri. It is a staple in the capital, as locals adore the cheese-filled bread, and you can sample various regional versions.
For instance, Adjarian is the most popular, as the boat-style bread is topped with butter, cheese, and an egg. It’s a comforting, delicious dish you’ll want to indulge in time and again. However, cheese lovers will want to go for the Megrelian style, as it’s simply topped with more cheese.
When sampling street food in Tbilisi, leave some room in your tummy for Khinkali, as you won’t be able to get enough of the large meat and spice-filled dumplings. To eat it like a local, hold the top knot before biting into the filling.
If you have a sweet tooth, Churchkhela might satisfy your cravings. The popular sweet dish is made from flour, walnuts, and thickened grape juice. It’s sweet, chewy, and yummy.
3. Stunning Architecture
Tbilisi provides a mishmash of architectural styles that add to the city’s charm and culture.
When you’re not feeling wowed by its stunning medieval castles, towers, fortifications, and churches, you’ll stand in awe of its modern high-rise towers, gorgeous European mansions, soviet-era buildings, and Persian-style bath houses.
Old Tbilisi is home to many historical buildings spanning centuries, making it a strong candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status.
After absorbing the beauty of its Western and Eastern-inspired architecture, spend time breathing in the grandeur and creativity of the city’s many modern buildings and structures, including the Bridge of Peace and the Public Service Hall.
4. One of the Oldest Wine-Producing Regions
Many believe Georgia is the birthplace of wine, as evidence of winemaking dates back 8,000 years, including pottery wine-making fragments.
The country is well-regarded for providing an incredible 500 indigenous grape varieties, and 50 are regularly used in winemaking.
Tbilisi isn’t a world-renowned wine producer, but is well-regarded for its exceptional wineries and wine-tasting experiences.
During your time in the capital, set time aside in your itinerary to visit one or more of the famous wine bars or wineries to embrace its wine culture and sample its indigenous grape varieties, such as Rkatsiteli or Saperavi.
If you have time to spare, stop by one of the wine-producing regions close to Tbilisi, such as Kartli, Kakheti, or Imereti.
5. Kind and Friendly Locals
The locals are worth a visit to Tbilisi alone, as they are willing to talk and help tourists from all corners of the globe.
Georgians are well-regarded for their warmth, kindness, and generosity, which makes travelling in this beautiful country all the more enjoyable.
For this reason, you’ll feel relaxed, welcome, and supported when visiting alone, with friends, or family.
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