Tbilisi is a city where ancient history, ancient wine traditions, and modern energy collide. Nestled in a valley along the Mtkvari River, the Georgian capital has quickly grown into one of Europe’s most captivating travel destinations. Whether you are strolling through cobblestone alleyways in Old Town or enjoying world-class natural wine, there are endless things to do in Tbilisi in 2026.

To help you experience both the iconic sights and hidden gems, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the city—including one brand-new way to connect with authentic Georgian culture that most tourists miss!

  1. Hike Up to Narikala Fortress For the best panoramic view of the city, head to Narikala Fortress, the 4th-century citadel standing guard over Tbilisi. You can ride the scenic cable car from Rike Park up to the top or walk the winding brick path from Abanotubani. Standing next to the iconic Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia) statue while watching the sunset over the city’s red roofs is an absolute must.

  2. Soak in the Historical Sulfur Baths of Abanotubani Tbilisi literally translates to "warm place," named after the natural hot springs bubbling beneath the soil. The dome-shaped sulfur baths in Tbilisi’s historical Abanotubani district offer a historic, relaxing, and invigorating wellness experience. Book a private room at one of the bathhouses (like the famous Orbeliani Bathhouse) and opt for a traditional kisa scrub for the full experience.

  3. Eat with Locals in Georgia — Book a Real Supra Dinner While restaurants in Tbilisi offer fantastic food, the true heart of Georgian hospitality lives in people’s home kitchens. If you want to experience a traditional Georgian supra (feast) led by a real Tamada (toastmaster), don’t just eat at a commercial restaurant—eat with locals in Georgia.

Through SecreTable, travelers and locals connect over unforgettable home-cooked meals. SecreTable allows host families in Tbilisi to open their homes for intimate supra dinners, hands-on Georgian cooking classes, and authentic culinary experiences. Whether you want to learn how to fold khinkali, sample homemade family wines, or order authentic local takeaway straight from a home cook, SecreTable offers a unique glimpse into real Georgian life that traditional tours simply can’t match. You can easily book it via WhatsApp.

  1. Hunt for Vintage Treasures at Dry Bridge Market The open-air Dry Bridge Market is an antique lover’s paradise. Local vendors line the bridge daily, selling Soviet memorabilia, handmade jewelry, vintage cameras, hand-woven Georgian rugs, and antique vinyl records. It’s a fascinating place to stroll, bargain respectfully, and pick up a unique souvenir.

  2. Take a Day Trip to Mtskheta Located just 25 minutes outside the city center, a Mtskheta day trip takes you to Georgia’s ancient religious capital. Visit the 6th-century Jvari Monastery perched high on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers, then explore the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in the heart of the town.

  3. Escape to Mtatsminda Park Take the historic funicular railway up Mtatsminda Mountain to reach Mtatsminda Park. In addition to amusement park rides and an iconic Ferris wheel, the park offers sweeping views of the entire valley and cool pine mountain air—a perfect escape on hot summer afternoons.

  4. Explore Georgian Natural Wine at Kakheti Georgia is known as the birthplace of wine, with an unbroken 8,000-year winemaking history. While you can sample qvevri wines in Tbilisi’s cozy wine bars, taking a full day trip to the Kakheti wine region lets you visit family vineyards, learn about traditional fermentation techniques, and taste exceptional vintages directly at the source. You can book a table at local's home via WhatsApp.

  5. Wander Through Fabrika’s Creative Hub Housed in a former Soviet sewing factory, Fabrika is the epicenter of Tbilisi’s modern creative scene. The courtyard is filled with hip cafes, open-air bars, street art, pop-up artisan shops, and co-working spaces. It’s a great spot to meet fellow travelers and local creatives in the evening.

  6. Marvel at the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) As one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world, Sameba dominates the city skyline. The immense scale, beautifully manicured gardens, and peaceful interior make it a breathtaking stop on any Tbilisi itinerary.

  7. Get Lost in Sololaki’s Hidden Courtyards The Sololaki neighborhood features grand 19th-century residential buildings with intricate wooden balconies, spiral staircases, and hidden internal courtyards (italuri ezobi). Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the fading architectural grandeur and local residential life.

  8. Stroll Down Shota Rustaveli Avenue Lined with grand architectural landmarks, museums, theaters, and shops, Rustaveli Avenue is the main artery of Tbilisi. Stop by the Parliament Building, admire the Opera and Ballet Theater, or pop into the Georgian National Museum to see ancient gold artifacts.

  9. Cross the Peace Bridge Connecting Old Tbilisi with Rike Park, the Bridge of Peace is a pedestrian bridge made of glass and steel. Its modern design contrasts beautifully with the city’s historic landscape, making it a favorite photo spot—especially when illuminated at night.

  10. Taste Street Food: Hot Khachapuri on the Go No visit to Georgia is complete without indulging in Khachapuri (cheese bread). While sit-down restaurants serve the iconic boat-shaped Adjaruli Khachapuri, make sure to try different regional varieties—like Imeruli or Megrelian—fresh from small local bakeries around the city. Another great option is to book a cooking class through SecreTable with a local host and learn how to make traditional Khachapuri yourself.

  11. Ride the Aerial Tramway Across the River For a quick and cheap thrilling view, take the aerial tramway from Rike Park over the Old Town rooftops to the base of Narikala Fortress. The glass floor panels offer a fantastic perspective of the river below.

  12. Discover the Leaning Clock Tower of Rezo Gabriadze Tucked away in Old Town near the Gabriadze Marionette Theatre, this quirky, fairytale-like clock tower looks like something straight out of a storybook. Be sure to stop by on the hour to watch a small mechanical angel pop out to ring the bell.

Final Thoughts Tbilisi seamlessly blends the old with the new, making it one of the most exciting travel destinations in 2026. From historic fortresses to home-cooked feasts, the city warmly welcomes everyone who visits.

Ready to taste authentic Georgian culture? Book your local supra dinner experience with SecreTable today!

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What are the 5 best things to do in Tbilisi?

If you only have time for the top highlights in Tbilisi, make sure these five non-negotiable experiences are on your itinerary: 1. Book a Dine-In with Locals at SecreTable: Skip the touristy restaurants and step directly into a Georgian home. Experience a real family supra (feast) with traditional dishes, natural homemade wine, and warm toasts led by a host (Tamada). You can Book Now via WhatsApp +995568072121 to reserve your table! 2. Hike or Cable Car to Narikala Fortress: Take the aerial tramway from Rike Park up to the 4th-century citadel for uninterrupted panoramic views over the red roofs of Old Tbilisi. 3. Soak in the Historic Abanotubani Sulfur Baths: Unwind in the iconic, dome-shaped sulfur bathhouses that gave Tbilisi its name ("warm place") and treat yourself to a traditional kisa body scrub. 4. Treasure Hunt at the Dry Bridge Market: Browse an endless open-air bazaar filled with Soviet memorabilia, hand-woven Georgian carpets, vintage cameras, and antique jewelry. 5. Take a Day Trip to Mtskheta: Journey 25 minutes outside the city to Georgia’s ancient religious capital to explore the breathtaking 6th-century Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Where can I eat the best food in Tbilisi?

The best food in Tbilisi comes down to two choices depending on the kind of dining experience you're looking for: authentic local hosts via SecreTable or hand-picked traditional restaurants. 1. For the Absolute Best & Most Authentic Food — SecreTable Hosts: Hands down, the richest, freshest, and most authentic Georgian cooking isn't found in a commercial kitchen—it’s made by local home cooks. Dining with a SecreTable host gives you access to secret family recipes passed down for generations, handmade khinkali, fresh-out-of-the-oven khachapuri, and unlimited homemade wine. It’s not just a meal; it’s a real cultural host experience in a genuine local home. You can book an intimate host dinner, culinary class, or takeaway directly on SecreTable. 2. For Top Restaurant Dining in the City: If you are dining out at restaurants, avoid the high-priced tourist traps on Shardeni Street. Instead, check out: Grand Cafe, Cafe Stamba, Bernard, Khedi Restaurant, Iasamani, Cafe Daphna.

How many days do you need in Tbilisi?

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore Tbilisi’s major historical sights, sulfur baths, and vibrant food scene. If you plan to take day trips to nearby regions like Mtskheta, Kazbegi, or the Kakheti wine country, extend your stay to 5 to 7 days.

How can I experience an authentic Georgian supra dinner with locals?

The best way to join an authentic Georgian supra is to book through SecreTable. Unlike commercial restaurants, SecreTable connects visitors directly with local host families in Tbilisi who welcome you into their homes for home-cooked traditional dishes, local wine, and traditional toasts led by a host (Tamada).

Is Tbilisi safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Tbilisi is considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe for tourists and solo travelers. Violent crime is extremely low, and local hospitality makes visitors feel welcome. As with any major city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist spots like the Dry Bridge Market.

Do people speak English in Tbilisi?

English is widely spoken by younger generations, hotel staff, tour guides, and workers in hospitality across Tbilisi. Learning a few basic Georgian words like "Gamarjoba" (Hello) and "Madloba" (Thank you) will go a long way with hosts and locals.

Is Tbilisi expensive for tourists in 2026?

Tbilisi remains very affordable compared to Western European destinations. While boutique hotels and fine dining prices have risen, delicious street food, local transport (metro and cable car), and budget-friendly cultural experiences like SecreTable meals make it easy to travel on almost any budget.