Welcome to Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and taking some time to settle in. In the morning, head to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, also known as Sameba, one of the largest orthodox cathedrals in the world. Admire its stunning architecture and explore the surrounding gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Tbilisi Puppet Theatre, where you can enjoy entertaining puppet shows suitable for the whole family. In the evening, take a walk along the lively Rustaveli Avenue, filled with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks.
Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba): Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Rustaveli Avenue: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Leila, known for its cozy atmosphere and wide variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 10-15 GEL per person.
For lunch, try the traditional Georgian cuisine at Barbarestan, a charming restaurant that serves homemade dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 15-25 GEL per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience for dinner at Shavi Lomi, a stylish restaurant offering a fusion of Georgian and international flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 30-40 GEL per person.
Thursday, September 28: Exploring Old Tbilisi
Today, dive into the historic heart of Tbilisi. In the morning, visit the Narikala Fortress, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city. Take a cable car ride to reach the fortress and spend some time exploring its ancient walls. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where you'll find traditional houses with colorful balconies and cozy cafes. Don't miss a visit to the Sulfur Baths, famous for their therapeutic properties. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner at a local restaurant.
Narikala Fortress: Entrance is free. Cable car ride costs approximately $2. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Old Town: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Sulfur Baths: Prices vary for treatments. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Leila, located in the heart of Tbilisi's Old Town. This cozy cafe offers a range of delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For lunch, try Machakhela Restaurant, known for its authentic Georgian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes such as khachapuri and khinkali. Average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
For dinner, visit Shavi Lomi, a popular restaurant known for its innovative Georgian fusion cuisine. The menu features a unique blend of traditional ingredients with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 40 GEL per person.
Friday, September 29: Discovering Georgian Culture
Immerse yourself in Georgian culture today. In the morning, visit the Georgian National Museum, where you can explore a wide range of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts and traditional crafts. Afterward, make your way to the Open Air Museum of Ethnography, located on a picturesque hillside. Discover traditional Georgian houses and learn about the country's rich cultural heritage. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Mtatsminda Park, a family-friendly amusement park with thrilling rides and beautiful views of Tbilisi. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants nearby.
Georgian National Museum: Ticket prices vary. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Open Air Museum of Ethnography: Ticket prices vary. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Mtatsminda Park: Entrance is free, rides and attractions have individual costs. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Machakhela, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Georgian dishes such as khachapuri and khinkali. Expect to pay around 10 GEL per person.
If you're looking for a place for lunch, try Aragvi, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Georgian cuisine and warm atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about 25 GEL per person.
For dinner, consider dining at Shavi Lomi, a trendy restaurant offering a fusion of Georgian and international flavors. The average cost for a meal at Shavi Lomi is around 35 GEL per person.
Saturday, September 30: Day Trip to Mtskheta
Take a day trip to the nearby town of Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, visit the Jvari Monastery, situated on a hilltop overlooking the town. Enjoy breathtaking views and explore the ancient religious site. Afterward, head to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the most sacred places in Georgia. Marvel at its beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Mtkvari River and enjoy a picnic with your family. Return to Tbilisi in the evening.
Jvari Monastery: Entrance is free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: Entrance fee is approximately $3. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Mtkvari River: Free to explore. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Cafe Leila which offers a charming atmosphere and a variety of delicious pastries and coffee options. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For lunch, head to Kopala Restaurant situated on a hill offering stunning views of the city. Enjoy traditional Georgian dishes like Khinkali and Khachapuri. Average cost for a meal is about 30 GEL per person.
For dinner, visit Shavi Lomi, a cozy restaurant with unique decor and a menu featuring modern Georgian fusion cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 50 GEL per person.
Sunday, October 1: Outdoor Adventure in Tbilisi
Today, experience a dose of adventure in the outdoors. In the morning, visit the Turtle Lake, a popular recreational spot surrounded by beautiful nature. Rent paddle boats, go for a swim, or simply relax by the lake. In the afternoon, explore the National Botanical Garden of Georgia, located in the heart of the city. Discover a variety of plant species, including exotic flowers and towering trees. In the evening, take a scenic walk along the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Turtle Lake: Free to visit, boat rental costs approximately $5. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
National Botanical Garden of Georgia: Entrance fee is approximately $2. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall: Free to visit. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Leila, located near Turtle Lake. Indulge in their delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 15 GEL per person.
For a lunch break, head to PurPur Restaurant, situated near the National Botanical Garden. Enjoy their international cuisine, including salads, sandwiches, and pasta. Average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Shavi Lomi, a cozy restaurant near the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall. Experience their unique fusion of Georgian and European flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 35 GEL per person.
Monday, October 2: Farewell to Tbilisi
On your last day in Tbilisi, take some time to explore the city at your own pace. You can revisit your favorite spots, indulge in some shopping at the famous Dry Bridge Flea Market, or relax in one of the city's charming cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Georgian Museum of Fine Arts, housing an impressive collection of artworks from various periods. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant and savor the flavors of the local cuisine.
Dry Bridge Flea Market: Free to visit, prices for goods vary. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Georgian Museum of Fine Arts: Entrance fee is approximately $2. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Farewell Dinner: Prices vary depending on the restaurant.
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Cafe Pur Pur, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 GEL per person.
Lunch: For a satisfying lunch, head to Shavi Lomi. This restaurant offers a creative twist on Georgian cuisine, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 25 GEL per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a traditional Georgian feast at Barbarestan. This restaurant is known for its homestyle cooking and unique recipes inspired by a 19th-century cookbook. Average cost for a meal is about 40 GEL per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When visiting Tbilisi, make sure to explore the charming neighborhood of Sololaki, known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and cozy cafes. Take a leisurely walk through the district, savoring the local atmosphere and stopping by small artisan shops. Another hidden gem is the Dry Bridge Flea Market, where you can find unique antiques, vintage items, and local crafts. It's the perfect place to hunt for souvenirs and discover hidden treasures.
For a family-friendly outdoor adventure, consider visiting the Lisi Lake and Park. Located on the outskirts of Tbilisi, this peaceful lake offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and boating. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and escape the bustling city for a while.
End your trip with a visit to the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre. This small puppet theater showcases beautiful performances loved by both adults and children. Be captivated by the artistry of the marionettes and the enchanting stories they tell.
Have a wonderful time exploring Tbilisi and creating unforgettable memories with your family!