This fascinating city, the capital of Georgiaand located at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains, offers both a modern and traditional experience with its historical texture, warm people, delicious food and cultural richness. It is a destination worth exploring with its architecture, narrow streets, baths and churches where you can see the old and new faces of the city together.
Tbilisi has been home to many civilisations throughout its history. This situation is quite impressive in terms of seeing the traces of different cultures in the texture of the city. The old city part of Tbilisi attracts attention with its cobbled streets, houses with wooden balconies and historical buildings. On the other hand, the modern side welcomes us with its thriving streets, cafes and art galleries.
Restaurants:
– Shavi Lomi
– Cafe Littera
– Iasamani
– Barbarestan
– Ninia’s Garden
– Alubali
– Sofiko
–Veriko
– Shushabandi
– Keto&Kote
– Chveni
– Cheri Pasta Bar
– Salobie Bia
–Zodiaqo
Cafe-Breakdast-Bakery:
-Pulp
-CoffeeLab
-Groove Roasters
-Chernyi
-Hello Breakfast
-Kutkhe
-Shavi Coffee
-Chicos
-eleven.window
-TheySaid Books
-Linville
-Madame Choux
-Karavanserai Bakery
Wine Bars & Bars:
-Dadi Wine Bar
-Sircha
-Barbar’a bar
-8000 Vintages
-Lolita
-Kikodze Bar
Although Georgian cuisine is similar to ours , it has important differences. Let ‘s first look at their cuisine and food culture.
For Georgians, wine is important, but toasting is not such a simple matter, there is a person who is responsible for the implementation of traditional rules and who manages the table, and this person is called ‘tamada‘. Generally, an intellectual, eloquent and wine-tolerant person is chosen.
Georgian dumpling ‘Khinkali‘ is one of the specialities of Georgian cuisine. It can be boiled or fried, and since it contains meat broth, it is necessary to hold it at the fold.
Khachapuri is derived from the words cheese and bread. It is made in different methods and there are 47 types in total. The leavened one is more like pita bread. It is also prepared with Sulguni , the most popular Georgian cheese.
Lobiani is a similarly delicious pastry, a spicy paste with beans in the filling.
Lobio is a stewed kidney bean dish with plenty of spices and garlic.
Chikhirtma, traditional chicken broth soups.
Ajapsandali is a traditional Georgian stew, onion, aubergine, It is prepared with tomato, chilli and plenty of coriander.
Phali is the name given to traditional Georgian appetisers. Different vegetables are crushed and served with plenty of coriander and walnuts . into a paste.
Badrijani Nigvzit actually means aubergine with walnuts. Fried aubergine slices are wrapped with a walnut sauce. Served with fresh pomegranate.
Satsivi has become one of our favourite meat dishes. Bazhe , a chicken dish served with a walnut sauce.
Shavi Lomi: A restaurant serving Georgian food with modern touches, it is one of our favourite places in Tbilisi with its delicious menu and homey atmosphere. It is one of the rare examples especially in this part of the city.
Cafe Littera: This restaurant is located in the building of aformer writers’ union, Ideal for a quiet dinner with its garden and delicious food. It has a truly charming garden. It is usually closed during the winter season.
Iasamani: This restaurant is noted for itsstylish decoration and modern Georgian cuisine, It isespecially preferred for dinner.
Barbarestan This restaurant is located in ahistoric mansion, offerstraditional Georgian cuisine in an authentic atmosphere.
Ninia’s Garden: Close to the city centre and surrounded by greenery, this place stands out with its local delicacies and its calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Alubali This restaurant where you can experience the original flavours ofGeorgian and Caucasian cuisine, attracts attention with its cosy atmosphere.
Sofiko OfferingGeorgian cuisine with a modern approach, Sofiko, an ideal choice for those looking for a pleasant dining experience.
Veriko : A place we love in the Wine Factory that serves Georgian flavours in a good way.
Shushabandi: A restaurant serving the flavours of Georgian cuisine with modern presentations. It is located in the Wine Factory. Especially the small dumplings inspired by Georgian dumplings are very tasty. Unfortunately, the main courses are not as good as the starters.
Keto & Kote: One of the most popular restaurants in Tbilisi , Keto & Kote is famous for its delicious food and peaceful atmosphere away from the noise of the city.
Chveni: This restaurant serves local Georgian flavours with a modern twist, It isespecially preferred by the locals.
Cheri Pasta Bar: A great option for those who want to try Italian cuisine in Tbilisi. It stands out with its fresh pasta and cosy atmosphere.
Salobie Bia: This place offers dumplings , one of the traditional flavours ofGeorgian cuisine , at affordable prices, especially famous for its bean dishes.
Zodiaqo One of the most popular flavours ofGeorgian cuisine , Georgian dumplings can be tried both fried and boiled, a shabby and affordable place.
It is ideal to spend at least 3-4 days to explore Tbilisi. This time will be enough to visit the important tourist spots, taste the local delicacies and feel the historical texture of the city. However, if you want to explore the city in more detail and visit the surrounding areas, a 5-6 day trip may be more beneficial.
Narikala Fortress: One of the symbols of Tbilisi , this castle attracts visitors with its history and magnificent city view.
Old Town: The area that best reflects the historical texture of Tbilisi. Fascinating with its narrow streets, colourful houses and historical buildings.
Sameba Cathedral: The largest cathedral in Georgia, it stands out both for its splendour and its high position in the city.
Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani): Tbilisi’s famous sulphur hot springs, It attracts visitors with its healing waters and Ottoman-style architecture.
Tbilisi Museum of Modern Art (MOMA Tbilisi): This museum houses the works of thefamous Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, It is a must-visit for those interested in contemporary art.
Mtatsminda Park: This amusement park with a bird’s eye viewof the city, offers enjoyable activities for both children and adults.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden: Escape the crowds ofthe city and get in touch with nature a peaceful spot for those who want to spend time.
National Museum ofGeorgia: A perfect stop for those who want to get to know the history and cultural heritage ofGeorgia.
Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia): This giant statue symbolises theGeorgian people, sword in one hand, holding wine in the other hand , depicting Georgian hospitality and defence skills.
Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre: This historic theatre building onRustaveli Street hosts fascinating performances.
Rooms Hotel Tbilisi: Rooms Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in Tbilisi, It attracts attention with its design blending old and new architecture. Close to the city centre, it is preferred for its stylishly decorated rooms and cosy atmosphere.
Fabrika Hostel & Suites: Converted from aformer Soviet factory, this creative hostel is ideal for young travellers. It is both affordable and art galleries, It is located in a complex full of cafes and bars.
Stamba Hotel: This hotel was converted from aformer printing house, A great option for lovers of art and design. It is known for its spacious rooms, modern decoration and proximity to the city centre.
Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel: Located in the heart ofthe city , Radisson Blu Iveria is ideal for those looking for a luxurious stay. With panoramic views of the city and the Kura River, the hotel offers a spa centre, It offers its guests a high level of comfort with its casino and various restaurants.
Marriott Tbilisi: This luxury hotel is located onRustaveli Street, It offers a comfortable stay with its elegant design and classic atmosphere. It is very close tothe city’s main tourist attractions and shopping centres.
Tbilisi is located within easy reach of the surrounding historical and natural beauties. Here are popular destinations for day trips or multi-day trips from Tbilisi:
1.Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
Distance: about 150 km from Tbilisi, 2.5-3 hours by car.
Features: Kazbegi is famous for its unique mountain landscapes and nature. Especially the Gergeti Trinity Church, this 14th-century church offers a mesmerising view at the foot of Mount Kazbek. It is an ideal destination for activities such as hiking and mountaineering.
Duration: It can be visited for a day trip or a 1-2 night stay.
2.Gudauri
Distance: Approx. 120 km from Tbilisi, 2 hours by car.
Features: A popular ski resort for winter sports, Gudauri is an ideal destination for ski lovers in winter. In summer, adventure sports such as parachute jumping can be done.
Duration: Suitable for day trips or 1-2 day stays.
3.Tsinandali (Kakheti Region)
Distance: about 100 km from Tbilisi, 1.5 hours by car.
Features: Tsinandali is located in Kakheti , Georgia’s famous wine region, Tsinandali is famous for its historic Tsinandali Palace and vineyards. You can do wine tastings and discover the historical texture of the region.
Duration: Suitable for a day trip.
4.Batumi
Distance: about 370 km from Tbilisi, 5-6 hours by car or 5 hours by train. Features: Located on the Black Sea coast, Batumi is characterised by its modern architecture, is known for its coastal walkways and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular destination for a seaside holiday in summer.
Duration: Batumi is suitable for a trip of a few days. Especially in the summer months, it can be pleasant to spend 2-3 days in Batumi.
5.Kutaisi
Distance: from Tbilisi about 230 km, 3-4 hours by car or 4 hours by train. Specialities: Kutaisi, one of the oldest cities in Georgia, is famous for its historical buildings such as Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also explore natural beauties such as Prometheus Cave. Duration: Suitable for a 1-2 day trip.
Wine Factory N1, which we met with the recommendation of a Turkish diplomat when we came to Tbilisi in 2021, is one of our favourite places in the city. We are a little sorry that we could not discover this place on our travels before 2021.
This building, which was established as a wine factory in 1894 on an empty land, was completely renovated and reopened in 2017. There is now a wine sales area, a small cellar where you can see the old factory and many cafes/restaurants. Another name of this place is Ghvinis Karkhana.
Our diplomat friend here first introduced us to the local Georgian cuisine We were taken to Veriko , which adds comments and we liked it very much. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is very pleasant.
The other places we tried in Wine Factory N1 were Shushabandi restaurant, Holy restaurant and Kikodze bar. Unfortunately Holy seems to be permanently closed.
Even if you are not going to eat here, we recommend you to stop by and experience it on a day when you are walking in the city. It has a sweet garden where various events are held and tables overflow from the courtyards of all venues.
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a destination that is very easy to reach from Turkey and can be travelled without a visa. When it is visa-free, the same question comes to the minds of many travellers: How to get to Tbilisi? Here is detailed information about transport options by plane, road and train:
You can reach Tbilisi , the capital of Georgia, with direct flights from Istanbul and Ankara in Turkey.
There are several different routes for land transport from Turkey to Georgia.
It is possible to go to Georgia from Turkey by land via Batumi. Sarp Border Gate is the most widely used border gate between Turkey and Georgia.
There are companies organising direct bus services from Turkey to Tbilisi.
It takes approximately 24 hours by bus from Istanbul to Tbilisi.
There is no direct train line from Turkey to Georgia. However, you can reach by train by following different routes:
So how do we get there?
It is a great advantage that novisa is required to enter Georgia and you can travel with an ID card.
