How to make the most of Tbilisi in 48 hours

Get an authentic taste of Georgia with a trip to its culture-packed capital, Tbilisi. Historic gems, new wonders and a thriving arts scene rub shoulders in this city, offering the intrepid traveller a melting pot of things to do and see. With just 48 hours on the clock, here’s the best way to spend a short break in Tbilisi.

Day one – Experience architecture and views

Begin your trip by taking a gentle stroll up to Narikala Fortress, the imposing 4th-century stronghold looming over the city. Once a Persian citadel, this historic attraction is the perfect place to soak up incredible views of the old town below, while learning a little bit about what made Tbilisi the charming city it is today.

Make your way back down to Tbilisi’s historic heart and discover its fairy tale atmosphere. While away an afternoon meandering your way through winding cobbled lanes, discovering hidden courtyards and admiring the quaint houses that almost reach out to each other across the narrow streets. Cross the Mtkvari River to discover the majestic Metekhi Church. Marvel at its splendid 13th-century architecture, then take a moment to soak up more stunning vistas of the old town from this epic vantage point.

Clock Tower The old town of Tbilisi

Tsminda Sameba Cathedral Georgian Orthodox church

The Peace bridge Mtkvari River

Sulfur baths Historic bathhouses

Liberty monument Freedom Square In City Center

Clock Tower

Tsminda Sameba Cathedral

The Peace bridge

Sulfur baths

Liberty monument

Feast on khinkali – hearty doughy parcels stuffed with potato, meat and cheese – at one of Georgia’s many friendly cafes, before venturing to the Clock Tower. This iconic landmark is actually one of the capital’s newest, designed by puppet master Rezo Gabriadze to decorate the façade of his theatre with something attention grabbing. Admire its unique haywire design and time your visit to see the angel which pops out of a door as the clock strikes on the hour. Finish off your day of sightseeing at Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, a huge Georgian Orthodox church which acts as a perfect example of the traditional architecture of the country. Your eyes will be drawn skyward to its epic golden dome, glimmering in the sunlight.

Day two – Soak up history and culture

Kick-start your second day in Tbilisi at the Museum of Georgia. Amble through its exhibitions, taking in the beauty of the Archaeological Treasury collection, boasting pieces dating all the way back to the 3rd millennium BC. Here, you can learn all about the Soviet Occupation of the city which shapes Tbilisi to this day. Follow this up with a dose of culture at the capital’s National Gallery and gaze upon works from some of Georgia’s most famous painters.

Food market

Cable cars

Dry bridge market

Food market

Cable cars

Dry bridge market

Tbilisi

Spend the rest of your time in Tbilisi shopping. Browse the line-up of boutiques and shops at Rustaveli Square, picking up souvenirs as you go. Finish off at Dezerter Bazaar, the city’s bustling open-air food market. Get educated on Georgian cuisine, as you meander between stalls piled high with produce. Pick up your favourites and enjoy a picnic at Rike Park. Brush away the crumbs of your feast, then stroll around this lush expanse of urban green and admire the contemporary structures dotted throughout the space.

There are endless treasures to discover in Tbilisi, and you can see so much, even with just 48 hours to spare. Book your trip to this charming capital city now with flydubai.