Tbilisi: Traditional charm with a modern twist

Nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, the enchanting city of Tbilisi, Georgia is a captivating blend of history, culture, and unparalleled experiences. This hidden gem offers a myriad of activities for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure, and delicious foods unique to the area. Being located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, the country of Georgia boasts a rich cultural heritage and history. Tbilisi is a vibrant city with a fusion of old-world charm and modern dynamism. As you wander through its cobbled streets, you will find a delightful mix of traditional Georgian architecture and contemporary influences.

The first stop on your cultural tour is a hammam spa. A true traveler must always try to live like the locals, and if that happens to mean spending the most relaxing afternoon ever being scrubbed from head to toe and relaxing in a hot sulfur bath, so be it! What makes the Georgian hammam experience so unique is all of the bubbles they use. After being exfoliated from head to toe, your kisa, or masseuse, will cover your body in a lather of tiny bubbles, which leave your skin feeling incredibly soft. We visited the Chreli Abano hammam which leans more towards luxury than authenticity, but we appreciated that they allow you to rent out a private room to enjoy your experience. 

Next up is a little shopping. Even if you don't plan to buy anything this spot is worth a visit just to browse. The median bazaar is like stepping back in time, where you wander through an underground tunnel lined with shelves of wine and small shops selling curiosities. Immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, just be careful not to be too distracted by the painted maps on the roof.

Be sure to walk across the iconic bridge of peace, an architectural marvel that spans the Kura River. It is a work of art from afar and up close, and the photos you take here will look incredible. On one side of the bridge lies Rike Park, where the vendors sell the incredibly unique wine-flavoured soft-serve ice cream. Grab an iconic purple cone and wander around the beautiful park, saying hello to all of the resident dogs. 

Now that you are nice and relaxed, it’s time to head over to Air Balloon Tbilisi. This large balloon takes you on a 15-minute ascent and descent, providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s skyline all at an affordable price. A standard ticket for foreigners here is 55 GEL. The balloon is anchored the entire time, so while you will not be free-floating, you will be enjoying a 360-degree incredible view.

If that view wasn’t enough for you, head over to the nearby aerial tramway and take the short ride up to Narikala Fortress. This ancient fortress stands as a testament to Tbilisi’s rich history and offers breathtaking views of the entire city. From the top, we opted to walk back down into the heart of Tbilisi’s Old Town, along a 1500-meter trail. If you are steady on your feet this is a wonderful way to soak in some of the city’s ambiance and charm, as well as meet a lot of cute cats along your way. 

The Georgian ballet is renowned worldwide for its mesmerizing performances that blend grace, passion, and intricate choreography. Unfortunately, timing was not on our side and we missed out on seeing these traditional dances, but be sure to check their website for possible showtimes during your vacation (https://sukhishvili.net).

For travelers with a penchant for history and art, a visit to the Chronicles of Georgia is a must. This monumental structure, also known as the "Stonehenge of Tbilisi," is a breathtaking display of towering pillars adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting key moments from Georgian history. We hired a taxi to take us on this 20-30 minute drive out from the city center, where we enjoyed delving into the country’s past while surrounded by the stunning landscapes that have shaped its history. 

Tbilisi, Georgia is an enchanting destination that seamlessly merges history, culture, and modernity. From indulging in luxurious hammam experiences to exploring the vibrant markets, your visit will be packed with adventure and exploration. The only way to fuel this incredible trip is by trying all of the delicious and unique Georgian cuisine. Be sure to read our blog post about all of the best food spots in Tbilisi here.