by Supanut Arunoprayote (cropped) / CC BY-SA 4.0
From Medieval Churches to Glass Bridges
Table of Contents
A. About Tbilisi
Nickname: Paris of the EastTbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, known for its diverse architecture, blending medieval, classical, and modern styles.
Due to the geographical location of Georgia, Tbilisi is neither Asian nor European; it’s a combination of both.
The city's name derives from the Georgian word for "warm," a reference to the natural hot springs found in the Abanotubani district.
Old Tbilisi is famous for its winding cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses with balconies, and rich cultural heritage.
The Narikala Fortress, perched above the city, offers panoramic views and reflects Tbilisi’s long history of fortifications and strategic importance.
➕ The Good
Perched on the banks of the Kura and the Mtkvari River against a striking mountainous backdrop, Tbilisi benefits from its scenic location.
Tbilisi is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with moderate crime levels.
Furthermore, Tbilisi enjoys a pleasant climate for most of the year, with mild winters and warm summers. However, it can become quite hot in summer months, and the weather in winter, while not extreme, can be unpredictable.
➖ Negative Aspects
Fortunately, Tbilisi has no category with a rating lower than 4/10.
Political instability in the region occasionally raises safety concerns, but tourists usually experience a calm and welcoming environment.
B. Best Things to Do in Tbilisi in 2025 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)
In total, we count more than forty sights in Tbilisi. The following sights contribute to a score of 5.30/10 in this most important category:
# Old Town 6
This historic district features narrow, cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and traditional Georgian architecture, showcasing a mix of Persian, Ottoman, and Russian influences.
Landmarks like sulfur baths and Orthodox churches add to its rich cultural fabric.
by Vyacheslav Argenberg / CC BY-SA 4.0
# Narikala Fortress 6
This ancient fortress overlooking Tbilisi, Narikala dates back to the 4th century and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The fortress has withstood numerous invasions and remains a symbol of the city’s resilience.
by Alexxx1979 / CC BY-SA 4.0
# Tsaminda Sameba Cathedral (Holy Trinity Cathedral) 5
This monumental Orthodox cathedral, completed in 2004, is one of the largest religious buildings in the world, symbolizing Georgia’s spiritual revival post-Soviet era.
Its towering golden dome is a focal point of Tbilisi’s skyline.
⛪️ Cathedral Opened: 2004
by ModriDirkac / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Tbilisi Funicular and Mtatsminda Park 5
The funicular railway transports visitors to Mtatsminda Park, a hilltop amusement area offering breathtaking views of Tbilisi and various family-friendly attractions. It has been in operation since 1905, connecting the city to leisure areas.
by Jonathan Cardy / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Sioni Cathedral 5
Built in the 6th century, this Georgian Orthodox cathedral is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin and is home to ancient religious artifacts, including a revered cross of Saint Nino. It has survived multiple reconstructions over the centuries.
by Supanut Arunoprayote / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Mother Georgia Statue (Kartlis Deda) 5
A towering aluminum statue overlooking Tbilisi, it symbolizes the spirit of Georgia, with a sword in one hand for enemies and wine in the other for friends. Created in 1958, it’s a popular symbol of Georgian hospitality and strength.
by Unrecognizablepineapple / Public domain
# National Botanical Garden of Georgia 5
Spanning over 128 hectares, this expansive garden is home to over 4,500 species of plants and provides a peaceful retreat within the city.
It also features scenic waterfalls and historic monuments, adding to its charm.
by Sb2s3 / CC BY-SA 4.0
# Bridge of Peace 4
The Bridge of Peace is a modern, bow-shaped pedestrian bridge over the Kura River in Tbilisi, connecting the old town with newer parts of the city. Its glass and steel structure, illuminated by thousands of LED lights at night, makes it a significant landmark of the capital.
by ako-aleko / CC BY-SA 3.0
# Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art 4
The Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art in Tbilisi houses works by Georgian and international artists, focusing on contemporary art, and is named after the renowned Georgian sculptor and painter Zurab Tsereteli.
The museum plays a key role in promoting modern art in Georgia.
by Gobrona / CC BY-SA Public domain
Gobrona, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
# Thermal Baths in Abanotubani 4
The Thermal Baths in Abanotubani have been a central part of Tbilisi’s culture for centuries, fed by natural hot sulfur springs and offering therapeutic bathing experiences. The area, historically significant, reflects the ancient city's connection to healing and relaxation.
by Marcin Konsek / CC BY-SA 2.5
C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Tbilisi
#11 | Georgian National Opera Theater (Paliashvili Opera House) 4
The Paliashvili Opera House, opened in 1851, is an architectural masterpiece with Moorish Revival and Baroque styles, hosting ballet and opera performances. It is one of the oldest opera houses in the Caucasus and remains a cultural cornerstone in Tbilisi.
by Francisco Anzola / CC BY-SA 2.0
D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Tbilisi
MTSKHETA 6
Mtskheta, one of the oldest cities in Georgia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to important religious landmarks, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, which are central to Georgian Orthodox Christianity.
🌇 City 🌍 World Heritage Site since: 1994 | Distance from Tbilisi: 23,5 km
by Ochokochi1 / CC BY-SA 4.0
Diamond Bridge and Dashbashi Canyon 6
The Diamond Bridge is a unique glass structure in the Dashbashi Canyon, offering scenic views and an adventurous experience with a suspended café. Dashbashi Canyon is a natural wonder with striking landscapes and waterfalls, ideal for hiking and nature exploration near Tbilisi.
🌉 Bridge and Canyon Distance from Tbilisi: 91 km
by Paata vardanashvili / CC BY-SA 4.0
E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Tbilisi (including close-by excursions)
To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Tbilisi for at least two entire days. If you plan to do some of the excursions, you will need more time.
Old Town 6
Narikala Fortress 6
🌍 MTSKHETA (13.4 km away) 6
Tsaminda Sameba Cathedral (Holy Trinity Cathedral) 5
Tbilisi Funicular and Mtatsminda Park 5
Sioni Cathedral 5
Mother Georgia Statue (Kartlis Deda) 5
National Botanical Garden of Georgia 5
Bridge of Peace 4
Zurab Tsereteli Museum of Modern Art 4