3 days in Tbilisi: A complete guide to exploring Georgia’s capital

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, is a city steeped in history, bursting with culture, and famous for its incredible food and wine. Known as the cradle of wine, Georgia boasts an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, making it an essential destination for wine lovers. The city's stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and blend of European and Asian influences make it an unmissable travel experience.

Adding to its appeal, British Airways is launching a direct route from London Heathrow to Tbilisi on 30th March 2025, making it easier than ever to visit this hidden gem. Tbilisi offers the perfect balance of history, nature, and local culture, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway.

You’ll have the chance to explore ancient landmarks, indulge in some of the best food and wine in the world, and take in spectacular landscapes—all within a few days. Whether you're venturing into the countryside for breathtaking views or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, there’s something to suit every kind of traveller.

Before we dive into the itinerary, here are some fun facts about Georgia that make this destination even more intriguing:

• Georgia isn’t actually called “Georgia”: The country’s real name is Sakartvelo in Georgian. “Georgia” is a name used by foreigners, stemming from ancient Greek references.

• It’s the birthplace of wine: With a winemaking tradition dating back over 8,000 years, Georgia is considered the oldest wine-producing country in the world. Its unique wines made in clay vessels (Qvevri wines) are a must-try.

• A Land of diverse languages: While Georgian is the official language, you'll hear a range of languages spoken, with Russian also commonly used in urban areas.

• A country of peaceful strays: Unlike many places, stray dogs in Georgia are often treated well by locals. Many have tags, indicating they are cared for and can be safely fed by travellers.

Day 1: A journey to Northern Armenia & local delights

Start your adventure with a cross-border day trip to Northern Armenia—a journey through breathtaking landscapes, historical monasteries, and remote villages. For £60, this trip includes:

• A visit to Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, both UNESCO-listed landmarks.

• Exploring Soviet-era towns frozen in time.

• Lunch with a local Armenian family, where you’ll enjoy home-cooked traditional dishes and an insight into Armenian hospitality.

Returning to Tbilisi in the evening, wind down at a local café, indulging in a bottle of Georgian wine and an Imeruli Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) for 50 GEL (~£14). The rich flavours and cosy ambiance make for a perfect end to your first day.

Day 2: A breathtaking Caucasus Mountains adventure

No trip to Georgia is complete without a journey into the majestic Caucasus Mountains. Embark on a full-day tour (£19) covering:

• Jinvali Water Reservoir – A picturesque lake with stunning turquoise waters.

• Ananuri Fortress – A medieval castle overlooking the reservoir.

• Gudauri – A ski resort known for breathtaking views.

• Kazbegi & Gergeti Trinity Church – A stunning hilltop monastery with panoramic views of Mount Kazbek. For an added thrill, take a 4x4 experience to reach the church, costing just 7 GEL.

  
  

  

  
  

Along the way, stop to sample local honey, a regional specialty, and visit the Monument of Peace, a striking Soviet-era mosaic with incredible mountain backdrops.

After a long but rewarding day, return to Tbilisi around 10 PM.

Travel Tip: Be cautious when shopping for souvenirs in touristy spots like the Jinvali market, where prices tend to be inflated. A wooden bowl I purchased for 50 GEL (~£14) was available in Tbilisi for much less!

Day 3: Exploring Tbilisi’s old town & spa culture

Your final day is all about discovering Tbilisi’s thidden gems through a walking tour of the old town:

• Cable Car to Narikala Fortress: Start with a scenic cable car ride to Narikala Fortress, offering stunning views of the city. At the top, see the Mother Georgia Monument, symbolising the country’s strength. Be cautious of bird handlers offering photos with birds of prey, as it can feel like a tourist trap.

• Peace Bridge: After descending, cross the Peace Bridge, a modern glass-and-steel structure connecting the Old Town with newer areas.

• Clock Tower of the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater: Visit the Clock Tower at Gabriadze Theatre, where the clock puts on a charming show every hour.

• The Caravanserai Tone Bakery: Stop by The Caravanserai Tone, one of Tbilisi’s oldest bakeries, near Metekhi Bridge. Here, try a Penovani Khachapuri and lemonade for just 5 GEL (~£1) for an authentic taste of Georgian cuisine.

• Wine Tasting: Finish with a free wine-tasting session, sampling Georgia’s famous Qvevri wines, fermented in clay vessels.

In the afternoon, experience the legendary sulfur baths, a must-do in Tbilisi. A private bath costs 150 GEL (~£40) and includes a drink, towels, and a full-body scrub massage—the perfect way to unwind.

For your final evening, dive into Georgian cuisine with a Khinkali & Khachapuri cooking class (£19). While traditionally a meat dish, the class offers a cheese-filled alternative for vegetarians like myself. It includes free wine, a salad, and cheese, making it a delicious and interactive experience.

Cost breakdown

With British Airways launching its direct route on 30th March 2025, flying from London Heathrow to Tbilisi is now easier than ever. They are offering return flights to Tbilisi starting at £195, and the best times to visit Georgia are May, June, or September. These months offer the perfect conditions, especially in the lowlands around Tbilisi, where you can avoid the summer heat and humidity as well as the freezing winter temperatures. Autumn, particularly around the vineyards of Kakheti, is also an excellent time to visit due to the harvest season.

Here is the current schedule:

• Outbound flights: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday at 21:25, arriving 5:30 AM.

• Return flights: Wednesday at 7:10-9:40 AM, Friday, Saturday, and Monday at 7:30-10:00 AM.

• Airport transfers: Tbilisi International Airport is just 20 minutes from the city centre, and a private transfer costs around £8.

Please note that I haven’t included flight costs in my itinerary, as I travelled to Tbilisi from Baku as part of a separate trip. However, for reference, my one-way flight back to the UK from Tbilisi cost approximately £200, with a one-stop layover in Prague.

If you are flying via Prague, be mindful that there will be security checks when transferring to the gate. As a result, you won’t be able to purchase wine or carry it in your hand luggage. That being said, the combination of affordable flights, beautiful weather, and the perfect balance of history and culture makes Tbilisi a fantastic long weekend getaway.

Tbilisi is a city that blends ancient history with modern vibrancy, offering a unique experience for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, tasting the world-renowned Georgian wine, or taking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Caucasus, Tbilisi promises an unforgettable journey. With its affordability, rich culture, and easy new flight connections, there’s no better time to visit.

If you’re thinking about a long weekend getaway, Tbilisi should be at the top of your list. It’s a city that’s waiting to be explored—offering not just stunning sights but also an incredible food scene, beautiful nature, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience all of this for yourself. Book your trip today and start your adventure in Tbilisi!

As a solo traveller, I felt incredibly safe during my time in Tbilisi. The city is well-patrolled, and I encountered no issues exploring. The locals are friendly and approachable, which adds to the overall sense of security and comfort.

One of the things I found particularly charming was the well-treated stray dogs roaming the streets of Tbilisi. These dogs are cared for by the locals, and if you’d like, you can safely feed them if they have a tag. It’s just another example of the kindness and hospitality that makes Tbilisi a truly special place to visit.

So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to experience the warmth and beauty of Georgia’s capital city!