Exploring Tbilisi on foot reveals hidden gems and authentic experiences that tour buses often miss.
Essential Walking Route Overview
This self-guided walking tour covers major highlights in Tbilisi’s Old Town and central districts, taking 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace.
- Starting Point: Liberty Square (Metro Station)
- Distance: ~4 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some uphill sections)
Stop 1: Rustaveli Avenue
Begin at Liberty Square and walk up Rustaveli Avenue, passing the Georgian National Museum (Open 10:00-18:00, closed Mondays).
Stop 2: Dry Bridge Market
Head east to the famous Dry Bridge Market where local vendors sell antiques and art (Best visited 11:00-17:00, weekends busiest).
Stop 3: Anchiskhati Basilica
Walk south to reach Georgia’s oldest surviving church, dating from the 6th century.
Stop 4: Sioni Cathedral
Continue to Sioni Cathedral, home to the cross of Saint Nino.
Stop 5: Bridge of Peace
Cross the modern glass Bridge of Peace for stunning views of the Mtkvari River.
Stop 6: Rike Park
Take a break in Rike Park, where you’ll find the cable car station to Narikala Fortress.
Stop 7: Narikala Fortress
Take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress (Cable car: 2.5 GEL one way, runs 11:00-23:00).
Stop 8: Abanotubani (Bath District)
Descend to the sulfur bath district, where you can spot the distinctive domed bathhouse roofs.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – some streets are cobblestone
- Carry water, especially during summer months
- Bring cash for market purchases and small cafes
- Download Maps.me for offline navigation
- Dress modestly when visiting churches (shoulders covered, knee-length bottoms)
Food Stops Along the Route
- Samikitno – Traditional Georgian restaurant near Liberty Square
- Cafe Leila – Vegetarian-friendly spot in the Old Town
- Machakhela – Quick khinkali and khachapuri near Sioni Cathedral
Consider starting this walk in the early morning to avoid summer heat and crowds at major attractions.
Download this walking route on Google Maps: Tbilisi Walking Tour Map
Emergency Contact: Tourist Police – 112
Optional Extensions
Add these stops if you have extra time or energy:
- Holy Trinity Cathedral (30 min detour)
- Tbilisi Botanical Gardens (1-hour addition)
- Mtatsminda Park via funicular (2-hour addition)
Best Photo Spots
- Bridge of Peace at sunset
- Narikala Fortress panoramic viewpoint
- Colorful balconies on Betlemi Street
- Metekhi Church overlooking the river
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-August)
Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat. Carry sunscreen and water.
Winter (December-February)
Tours best done between 11:00-16:00 for optimal daylight and temperatures. Watch for icy patches.
Guided Tour Options
- Free walking tours depart Liberty Square daily at 12:00
- Private guides available through Tourist Information Center
- Evening photography tours (seasonal)
Conclusion
This walking route offers an ideal introduction to Tbilisi’s diverse architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. While the main route takes 3-4 hours, allow extra time for museum visits, shopping, or dining stops. Consider breaking the tour into sections if traveling with children or during peak summer heat.
For an authentic experience, engage with local vendors at Dry Bridge Market and try traditional Georgian dishes at recommended restaurants. The route can be walked in either direction, though starting at Liberty Square provides a gentler ascent to Narikala Fortress.
FAQs
- What is the best route for a self-guided walking tour in Tbilisi Old Town?
The classic route starts at Freedom Square, continues through Pushkin Street to Sololaki, then to Abanotubani (Bath District), up to Narikala Fortress, down to Meidan Square, and along Kote Apkhazi Street to Peace Bridge. - How long does it take to complete a walking tour of Tbilisi’s main attractions?
A comprehensive walking tour of central Tbilisi’s main attractions typically takes 4-6 hours, though this can be split across multiple days or shortened based on selected stops. - Is it safe to walk around Tbilisi by yourself?
Yes, Tbilisi is generally very safe for walking tours, even alone. The city has low crime rates and locals are typically friendly and helpful to tourists, though standard precautions should be taken especially at night. - What are the must-see landmarks on a Tbilisi walking tour?
Essential landmarks include Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, Sioni Cathedral, the Bridge of Peace, Anchiskhati Basilica, the Sulfur Baths, and the Clock Tower at Gabriadze Theater. - When is the best time of day for a walking tour in Tbilisi?
Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-7 PM) are optimal, especially in summer months when midday temperatures can be very hot. Morning offers better lighting for photography of eastern-facing sites. - Do I need to pay entrance fees during a self-guided walking tour?
Most outdoor attractions are free, but there are entrance fees for certain sites like the Sulfur Baths (15-100 GEL depending on room type) and some museums. Many churches are free to enter. - What should I wear for a walking tour in Tbilisi?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to cobblestone streets and hills. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required for entering churches. Weather-appropriate layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. - Are there public restrooms available along the walking routes?
Public restrooms are limited but available at major tourist sites, shopping centers, and restaurants. Many cafes allow restroom use with purchase. The tourist information center near Freedom Square also has facilities. - Where can I find good viewpoints for city photos during the walk?
The best viewpoints include Narikala Fortress, Mother Georgia statue area, Mtatsminda Park (accessible by funicular), and Metekhi Church platform overlooking the Old Town. - How can I combine public transport with my walking tour?
Tbilisi’s metro (0.5 GEL per ride) can be used to reach starting points or return from end points. Key stations near walking routes include Liberty Square, Avlabari, and Station Square.
