Hello friends, today I want to tell you about my trip to Tbilisi. We started with the famous Peace Bridge, one of Tbilisi's most iconic landmarks. Built in 2010 it has become a symbol of the city, appearing in almost every photo taken here. From the bridge you can see the Old Tbilisi district. Nearby, there are funiculars that take you up for a stunning view. Below flows the Kura River, with modern buildings on one side and the old district with historic structures on the other. There’s also a concert hall, the president’s palace and the Ministry of Justice building. You can even take a short boat ride on the river for around 10 dollars for half an hour. And don’t forget to take photos with people dressed in bear costumes on the bridge.
Now let me teach you a few basic words you should know when visiting Georgia: Hello - Gamarjoba, Thank you - Madloba and of course, You're welcome - Genatsvale. Let’s talk about food too! Tbilisi is home to delicious dishes like Khinkali, Khachapuri and Adjapsandali. For food lovers, Georgia is really heaven.
Our journey continued towards the funiculars, where we climbed to the top. The ticket price is incredibly affordable costing less than a dollar. The views from the top are breathtaking. In Turkey a similar experience would cost at least 10-12 dollars, but here you can enjoy it all day for under a dollar.
From the top you can see almost all of Tbilisi. The scenery is amazing and the price is unbeatable. Plus there’s live music playing. You can grab some light snacks, freshly squeezed fruit juices, popcorn or even try Trdelník, a Czech pastry. I was surprised, shouldn’t there be Khachapuri here? Anyway, you can enjoy something to eat or drink while soaking in the beautiful views.
There’s also a statue called the Mother of Georgia nearby. It’s a bit tricky to photograph because her back is turned to you. But when you look around, you feel completely immersed in nature. Close by, there’s a botanical garden, the sound of crickets fills the air and remnants of ancient buildings stand tall. All of this is within Tbilisi,you don’t need to go anywhere else.
Later we descended to explore the city in more detail. We stopped at a café for lunch. What matters most here isn’t the food but the view. There’s a church nearby, the river flows below and dogs rest peacefully. One dish you absolutely must try is Khinkali. Let’s talk prices: For example, five Khinkali cost about 2 Lari, cold appetizers range between 10-15 Lari, salads are usually 20-24 Lari, soups are around 14-15 Lari and kebabs vary between 17-37 Lari. Adjapsandali costs 17 Lari. But for me the best dish is definitely Khinkali.
By the way a bottle of beer costs 8-9 Lari, a glass of wine is about 3 dollars and Georgian brandy (Chacha) costs 6 Lari. Khinkali is very filling, so eating just that can be an economical option.
We arrived in the city center, where one of the biggest issues is street art or graffiti. These drawings are everywhere, even next to government buildings. While some are beautiful, others are completely meaningless and detract from the city’s appearance.
Tbilisi airport has a modern terminal. Exchanging currency there isn’t very profitable. Better rates are available in the city. A taxi ride to the center costs about 10 dollars and takes 30 minutes. There’s an interesting place in the city called Pattaya Thai Massage, which gives you the feeling of being in Thailand. Clotheslines and wires hang over the streets. it’s a surprising spot.
The Old City has many fascinating places, some dating back to the 5th century. For instance, the Abanotubani Baths, after which Tbilisi gets its name (meaning warm water) are located here. Natural hot springs flow through the area and bathhouse fees start at around 30 dollars. There are rooms of various sizes, some with hot and cold pools and private baths can also be rented.
As you walk through the Old City, you’ll marvel at how the houses were built. Some buildings seem to perch precariously on the edge of cliffs. And guess what? There’s a waterfall right in the middle of the city! Isn’t that astonishing? People sit nearby and enjoy the view.
The narrow streets and wooden balconies of the Old City have even been featured in films, such as scenes from The Diamond Arm. The streets are full of cats, making it feel almost like a small zoo.
When it comes to taxis in Tbilisi, apps like Bolt, Yandex.Taxi, Maxim and Uber operate. Seeing these services, which are more common in Asia, feels oddly nostalgic.
We visited a Georgian church, whose architectural style is entirely unique. This church dates back to the 6th century.
We stopped by a supermarket and if I may comment on prices, pasta costs about 3 Lari. What’s remarkable is how cheap Borjomi water is here, a liter costs about 50 cents. You can also buy Khinkali at markets for about 8 Lari per kilogram.
There’s a market selling dried fruits, antiques and collectibles near the Sanitary Bridge. You can find old cameras, vintage lenses and various souvenirs. However, most items are in worn condition.
Tbilisi is an incredible city and a must-visit destination. Thank you all and see you soon...