Travelers Guide to Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi has 1.3 Million inhabitants and is the largest city and the capital of Georgia. It lies on the edge of the Trialeti Range, on the river Mtkvari. The city was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali. The sulphur springs gave Tbilisi its name, "tbili" meaning "warm" in Georgian.

The long history and the location on a crossroad between Europe, Asia and the Middle east can easily be seen in the unique appearance of the city. The typical hospitality of the local population will make the traveler's experience perfect. The simple presence of a foreign visitor can already spark a spontaneous feast, a "supra" as Georgians call it, to show respect to the guest.

Famous places to visit in Tbilisi include the old city, with cobblestone roads and charming old houses. The area between Meydan, Freedom Square and Baratashvili Bridge is constantly renovated and includes several gems. There is the Sioni Church, the old Synagogue and the lively Chardeni Area with restaurants and bars.

South of the Meydan is the famous Abanotubani. The hot springs, which gave Tbilisi its name, are still in use today. One can splash in sulphur water and get scrubbed, like in the old days. Next to the bath houses is the grand Mosque, and there is access to the botanical gardens and the Narikala Fortress. From there, one can get a view on Metekhi Church and the cliffs on the opposite site of the river.

The city has several significant museums. The Ethnographic Outdoor Museum in Vake displays dozens of traditional houses from various periods and Georgian regions, including a Svanetian Tower. From there, it is also easy to reach Turtle Lake and enjoy the view on the city.

Shopping opportunities are the large amounts of shops on Rustaveli Avenue and the newly renovated Aghmashenebeli Avenue in the scenic Marjanishvili Area. Souvenir hunters can find a vast offer of local art and craft around Old Town. The flea market on the Dry Bridge features everything from precious antiques via bizarre soviet kitsch to old books.

There is a wide range of flights to Tbilisi available. Connections to many major cities in Europe are available by big airline companies. Taxis on Tbilisi Airport are readily available and a ride to the city center costs approx. 12 Euros. Besides flying, one has good connections by train and bus to a vast number of regional destinations and to neighboring countries.

Accommodation in Tbilisi features every aspect desired by travelers, be it business or leisure. Hotels in Tbilisi include the luxurious Sheraton Metekhi Palace with swimming pools and conference rooms. The several high-class hotels come at prices from 200$ per room and offer many amenities.

Dozens of mid range and budget hotels can be found across the city, and rooms can be found from 35$. Backpackers can choose between many Hostels in Tbilisi, where it is easy to get in contact with fellow travelers to exchange tips. It is possible to spend the night in a hostel for as little as 10$ per night.

Apartments in Tbilisi are an option, if one stays for a longer period, but it is also possible to rent apartments by the day. They give more privacy and more inside view to the city while being less expensive than a hotel, when staying for a week or more.

Learn more about taxi service in Riverdale Georgia

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