Explore Tbilisi

More over one in three of Georgia's population resides in Tbilisi, which is the energetic, pulsing center of the country and features a stunning valley backdrop, a charming Old Town, diverse architecture, and excellent dining and drinking options. Tbilisi is boldly cementing its status as the most international city in the South Caucasus by adding the allure of the city's hipster culture, techno scene, and overall air of cool.

Narikala, which dominates the skyline of Old Town, was a Persian stronghold in the 4th century. The Arab emirs, whose palace was located inside the stronghold, constructed the majority of the walls in the eighth century. Later, Narikala was taken by Georgians, Turks, and Persians, who repaired it. However, in 1827, a massive explosion caused by Russian armaments stored inside completely destroyed Narikala, leaving only its mostly intact walls as a magnificent ruin.

The Pirosmani (Niko Pirosmanashvili, 1862–1918) hall of beautiful paintings is the site's main attraction for most tourists. These works by Georgia's most well-known painter range from his famed animal and feast scenes to lesser-known portraits and rural-life canvases. Lado Gudiashvili and David Kakabadze, two additional prominent Georgian artists from the 20th century, have also produced a strong body of work. Access is through the park next to Kashveti Church.

The wildly popular cable car in Tbilisi, which swings from the southern end of Rike Park high over the Mtkvari River and the Old Town up to Narikala Fortress, is the city's most thrilling attraction. You need a Metromoney card to ride it; if you don't have one, you may get one at the ticket offices. In the summer, expect to wait, albeit the line goes rather fast.

The underground Archaeological Treasury, which displays a wealth of pre-Christian gold, silver, and precious-stone craftsmanship from tombs in Georgia dating back to the third millennium BC, is the principal centerpiece of the outstanding national museum. The exquisitely crafted gold ornaments from Colchis are the most beautiful (western Georgia). The Museum of Soviet Occupation, located on the top level, provides extensive information about Soviet persecution and local resistance to it.

The oldest church still standing in Tbilisi is arguably its most beautiful. It is a three-nave basilica with faded frescoes and walls made of large stone blocks that was built in the sixth century by King Gorgasali's son Dachi. The Anchi Cathedral image from Klarjeti, which is currently in Turkey, gave rise to the church's name. This icon is housed in Tbilisi's Shalva Amiranashvili Museum of Art.