Features and things to do on this model route
This model route is designed to enable first-time visitors to Tbilisi to experience the charms of the Old City without any difficulty. Focusing mainly on foot, it offers a good balance of historical buildings, streets, landscapes and culture.
No special physical fitness or prior knowledge is required. Walking along the cobbled streets, you can feel the atmosphere of the city, sometimes stop to take photos and take a break at a café. In such a natural flow, the charm of Tbilisi will gradually become apparent.
This route is intended to take between half a day and a full day to complete, but can be freely adjusted according to time and fitness. It is important to 'feel' the city, rather than 'conquer' the sights.
Starting point and overall flow
The starting point is envisaged to be the riverside area in central Tbilisi. This is easily accessible by foot or taxi from hotels and accommodation. The Old City is a relatively compact area, so there are no major problems wherever you start.
The whole tour takes from half a day to a full day on foot at a leisurely pace. Considering the café breaks and meals along the way, you can imagine starting in the morning or early afternoon and visiting the main spots by evening.
It is important to go around without overdoing it. If it is hot or you feel tired, do not try to force yourself to go all the way around, but prioritise rest. The Old Town is a place where you can discover something new no matter how many times you visit, so leaving some extra space is another way to enjoy your trip.
Step 1: Around the Bridge of Peace
The first area to visit is the Bridge of Peace area. This bridge of modern design is known as the symbolic meeting point of old and new in Tbilisi. Across the river, visitors can enjoy contrasting views of the historic old town and the new area.
Walk along the bridge and admire the river and the surrounding buildings. It's also a good spot for taking photos, both in daylight and lit up at night. It's a good place to get a general overview of the city before moving on to the old town.
Beyond the bridge lies the entrance area to the old town. From here, cobbled streets continue and the historical atmosphere gradually thickens.
Step 2: Walking the streets and squares of the Old Town
Once in the old town, the cobbled streets and historic buildings continue. Narrow alleys, colourful balconies, old churches and small squares. Don't be too set on your destination, but enjoy the city by walking along the streets that interest you.
In the square, locals gather, tourists take a break and sometimes there is music playing. Take time to sit on a bench and feel the atmosphere of the city. Instead of rushing off to the next place, soak up the atmosphere of the place.
The old town is dotted with small galleries, craft shops and cafés. If you are interested, it is worth stopping by. However, you don't have to try to see everything. Take your own pace, pick and choose what you are interested in and enjoy.
Step 3: Metech Church and riverside views.
After walking through the old town, head to the Metehi Church. This church stands on a cliff overlooking the river and is a symbol of Tbilisi's history and landscape. The view from the high point is a great vantage point from which to see the entire Old Town.
The view of the river and the city together is a unique attraction of Tbilisi. Don't just take pictures, stand there for a while and feel the expanse of the city. The sound of the wind, the distant sounds of the city and the quietness of time.
The interior of the church is a quiet religious institution. Visitors are expected to dress and behave in a quiet manner. If religious services are taking place, visits may be restricted, so use your judgement according to the situation.
Step 4: Concept of cafés and rest spots
When walking in the Old Town, you may feel tired and hot from walking. In such cases, we recommend taking a break at a café to take it easy. Tbilisi is dotted with cafés where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Old City.
In the cafés, you can enjoy coffee, tea and light snacks and get a feel for the atmosphere of the city. They are also a gathering place for locals and will give you a glimpse into a different side of everyday life than in the tourist areas. We cannot recommend any particular shop, but if you find a place that interests you, feel free to go in.
It is also important to use breaks to think about where to visit next and to adjust time allocations. Try to plan ahead, as an unreasonable schedule can lead to fatigue.
Step 5: Places to stop off if you can afford it.
After you have done the basic route, consider additional sights if you have the energy and time to spare. There is a wide range of attractions in and around the Old Town, including museums, galleries and historic buildings.
However, there is no need to try to visit everything at once. If you feel tired, it is important to take the decision to return to your hotel without overdoing it. Travelling is for enjoyment, not an obligation.
Leaving room for a next visit is another way of enjoying a trip. The fact that there are places you want to come back to is proof of the city's charm. Tbilisi is a city where you can discover something new no matter how many times you visit, so don't be in a hurry to enjoy it.
summary
The Old City of Tbilisi is a place whose charm is conveyed by walking. Cobbled streets, historic buildings, riverside views, café culture. These are things that can only be appreciated by actually visiting and taking the time to feel them.
This model route is only an example. Feel free to adjust it according to the weather, your physical condition and your interests. The essence of sightseeing in Tbilisi is not to 'conquer' the sights, but to 'feel' the city.
After a walk through the old town, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the night view and visit cultural institutions. Tbilisi has a different charm by day and by night. We hope your time in this city will be a special memory for you.
This model route is a guide only. Adjust according to weather, physical condition and time.
Opening times and conditions of attractions are subject to change.
It is recommended that you check locally for the latest information.
