I arrived at Tbilisi Airport from Istanbul at 4am. This time, unlike Istanbul, I had pre-arranged accommodation and collection from the airport. Thankfully, this meant I was able to get five or six hours of sleep before I spent 24 in Tbilisi, Georgia – a decision I was pleased to have made, to say the least.
Plus, it was very affordable. I booked an airport hotel for less than 15 pounds, and this included free airport pick up. It was lovely to be greeted in Georgia in the arrivals hall, knowing that I wouldn’t have to figure out transport, and that I was about to get some rest! The accommodation was basic, but comfortable. The next day I walked the 2km back to the airport to get the #37 bus. This got me into Station Square in less than an hour, and cost just 24 pence.
I arrived at Station Square feeling refreshed and ready to explore the sights of Tbilisi. Heading straight for the metro station, I bought a metro card, and travelled the two stops to Marjanishvili, where I dropped my bags off at the hostel. I chose Hostel Violet as it’s situated near to the train station and allowed me to have a private room, with a shared bathroom, for less than 5 pounds.
I was in dire need of some food before I started exploring. So, once I’d trekked back to Station Square, I visited one of the many cafes that surround it to order Khinkali and a coffee. As I’m a massive foodie, trying local foods when I travel is a must. On that note, these meat-filled dumplings with a dipping bowl of spicy sauce were just incredible! Don’t leave Georgia without trying them, if you’re ever in the area.
Refuelled and ready to go, I made my way through the cobbled side streets of Tbilisi to Mtkvari River. This is where you’ll find the cable car taking you up to Narikala Fortress, which is known for its history as well as breathtaking views over the entire city. While crossing the Metekhi Bridge, I also got to see the beautiful river views, the Metekhi Church, and the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali – Tbilisi’s founder.
Once you’re across the river, you’ll see the cable car station on the left hand side. The cost of travelling one way to Narikala Fortress is 2.5 lari (around 50p) and it only takes a matter of minutes to reach the top. The view became steadily more spectacular as I got higher and higher, it was a bit of a shame the ride didn’t last longer.
I arrived at Narikala Station and took the 10-minute walk around the edges of the fortress walls before heading further uphill, where I was greeted by St. Nikolai Church, nestled within the walls of the fortress. The church was open for visitors to have a look inside and there was also a quaint little souvenir shop. I used my remaining time there to carefully climb the fortress walls and the surrounding hills to soak up the incredible views. Established in the 4th century, it’s an ancient symbol of the city’s defense and definitely worth the trip – if you’re not nervous about heights!
Once I was ready to make my way down, I went back past the cable car station to the Mother Georgia Statue that stands tall over the hillside and walked the steps back down to Tbilisi Old Town. En route, you’ll get the opportunity to see more incredible views of the city, as well as some other churches and monasteries. I highly recommend taking the cable car up and then travelling back down on foot, for this reason.
On my way back to Station Square to find somewhere for dinner, I walked along the river’s edge to see a Tbilisi landmark, the Bridge of Peace. The bridge is a phenomenal glass and steel structure – nothing short of a work of art – which curves over a pedestrian bridge connecting Tbilisi Old Town with the new district.
I continued on past another of Tbilisi most famous sites, the Anchiskhati Church of St. Mary. This 6th century church is the oldest surviving in the entire city.
As my day of exploring Tbilisi drew to a close, I made my way through the winding back streets of the old town just as the sun was beginning to set, and found a restaurant on Station Square. I was very much ready to enjoy dinner and a well-deserved beer.
Even though it was a short visit to a country and city I have wanted to explore for a while, it gave me a great taste of Georgia’s history; I will most certainly be back to the capital one day. My short time here was, however, not over just yet. With a stomach full of Khinkali (what can I say, they’re amazing!) I took a leisurely stroll back to my hostel to get an early night. The next day, I’d be taking a day trip by train to Gori – about an hour outside of Tbilisi – and is known for being the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. The journey in Georgia continues…
