How to Spend 3 Days in Tbilisi, Georgia: The Ultimate Itinerary
- Michael & Mri
- Apr 17
- 5 min read
Tbilisi, Georgia’s charming capital, is the perfect mix of ancient history, vibrant street life, unique wine culture, and stunning views. Whether you're a culture lover, photographer, foodie, or first-time visitor, three days in Tbilisi gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the city’s highlights and even venture out on a memorable day trip.
This 3-day Tbilisi itinerary includes the best things to do in the city—like iconic landmarks, unique wine bars, sulfur baths, and hidden gems—plus one unforgettable day trip to Georgia’s ancient capital and Stalin’s birthplace.
Day 1: Explore Old Town & Iconic Landmarks
If you're visiting Tbilisi for the first time, make Old Town Tbilisi your starting point. This historic neighborhood is the heart of the city and one of the most charming places in Georgia.
Wander through cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored houses and carved balconies, admire vibrant Tbilisi street art, and soak in the aroma of Georgian wine and freshly baked khachapuri. It’s easily one of the best areas in Tbilisi for photography and sightseeing.
Start with a Free Walking Tour
There’s no better way to get your bearings and uncover the stories behind Tbilisi’s most famous sights than by joining a free walking tour. We loved our tour —engaging, insightful, and full of hidden corners we’d never have found ourselves.
You’ll pass through key Old Town highlights:
The Clock Tower – A fairytale landmark next to the Gabriadze Theatre with a whimsical puppet show every hour.
Anchiskhati Basilica – The oldest surviving church in Tbilisi.
Baratashvili Bridge – Known for its “Bridge of Love” locks and views of the Mtkvari River.
Tbilisian Courtyards – Peek into hidden courtyards filled with ivy, laundry lines, and local life.
Visit the Sulfur Baths & Orbeliani Baths
After all that walking, it’s time to relax Georgian-style. Tbilisi’s sulfur baths are located in the historic Abanotubani district. You can choose a private bath for a more intimate experience. Orbeliani Baths are the most photogenic, with blue mosaic tiles and Persian-inspired architecture. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth stopping by to admire.
PRO TIP: Book in advance if you want a private room with a massage!
Climb to Narikala Fortress & Mother of Georgia
In the late afternoon, take the cable car (or hike) up to Narikala Fortress for panoramic views of the city. Right next door stands the Mother of Georgia statue, holding a sword in one hand and wine in the other—a perfect symbol of Georgian hospitality and strength.
Day 2: Culture, Wine & Hidden Gems
Today is all about mixing culture and indulgence.
Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba)
Start your morning at Sameba Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Its golden dome dominates the Tbilisi skyline and the peaceful grounds are ideal for a quiet stroll.
Discover Gallery 27
Next, head to Gallery 27, a hidden gem tucked inside a beautiful traditional Georgian house. This spot is famous for its stained-glass staircase—one of the most Instagrammable places in the city. Inside, you’ll find local artisan crafts and contemporary art pieces perfect for souvenirs.
Wine Tasting at unique Wine Bars in Tbilisi
No trip to Georgia is complete without wine—and Tbilisi is home to some of the most unique wine bars around. These are not your average wine spots; each one has a story, a vibe, and some incredible natural or qvevri wines.
Here are 3 of our favorites:
8000 Vintages – A wine lover’s paradise with over 1,500 bottles and tastings led by certified sommeliers.
g.Vino – Cozy atmosphere with delicious small plates and organic wines from small Georgian producers.
Wine Factory N1 – A former Soviet wine factory turned urban wine hub, now home to trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries.
PRO TIP: Ask about amber wines—Georgia’s ancient winemaking method that’s gaining global recognition.
Day 3: Take the Best Day Trip from Tbilisi
After two full days of city exploring, it’s time to head out of town for one of the best day trips from Tbilisi.
Mtskheta – Georgia’s Ancient Capital
Just 30 minutes from Tbilisi, Mtskheta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for anyone interested in Georgian history. Once the capital of Georgia, Mtskheta is the spiritual heart of the country. Wander the cobblestone streets and discover hidden courtyards filled with local crafts and delicious churchkhela.
Visit the stunning Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both rich in spiritual and architectural significance. Legend says the robe of Christ is buried here, making it one of Georgia’s most sacred sites. Stand in awe beneath its soaring arches, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a hauntingly beautiful Georgian choir performance
Uplistsikhe Cave Town
Continue west to Uplistsikhe, a fascinating ancient cave city carved directly into rock. You can explore tunnels, wine presses, and even a pagan temple, all overlooking the Mtkvari River.
Climb to the highest point for sweeping views of the surrounding valley—it’s a photographer’s dream. But if you have been to Petra in Jordan, I don’t think you would find this as appealing …
Gori – Birthplace of Stalin
Wrap up your day in Gori, where you can visit the Joseph Stalin Museum. Gori is the birthplace of one of history’s most controversial figures, and the Stalin Museum has been built around his home. The Stalin Museum is both haunting and fascinating, with relics of a man whose legacy shaped the 20th century in complex and often dark ways. From his childhood home to his infamous train carriage, the museum showcases Stalin’s life in an almost surreal, uncritical homage.
Visiting felt like navigating a delicate balance between curiosity and discomfort. It’s a stark reminder of how history can be remembered differently depending on where you stand. Walking through the exhibits, I couldn’t help but reflect on the immense power of narratives—and the importance of facing history with an open mind and a critical heart. Whether you’re a history buff or not, it’s a surreal experience that sheds light on the Soviet past.
The Chronicles of Georgia
Tucked away on the outskirts of Tbilisi, the Chronicles of Georgia is a hidden treasure that feels like stepping into another world. Towering columns adorned with intricate carvings tell the story of Georgia’s rich history and its deep ties to Christianity.
What struck me most wasn’t just the scale of the monument but the sense of quiet reverence here. Unlike the bustling streets of Old Tbilisi, this spot feels almost untouched by tourists—a place where the past and present collide in the most breathtaking way. Most people skip this, but dont!
🚗 How to Do It: You can easily do this day trip by hiring a private driver, renting a car, or joining a small group tour from Tbilisi. We hired a car and driver using GoTrip.ge and it cost us EUR 60. So affordable!
Final Tips for Visiting Tbilisi
Where to Stay: Stay in or near Old Town for walkable access to the city’s best sights. We loved the Moxy Tbilisi - great location, great vibes, and next door to some delicious restaurants!
What to Eat: Don’t miss khinkali (dumplings), lobio (bean stew), and fresh Georgian cheese bread. Some of our favorite restaurants include:
- Tiflisi Vorontsovze
- RIGI
- RESTAURANT SENE
- Balcony No. 12
- Restaurant Pasanauri
Getting Around: Tbilisi is walkable, but you can also use Bolt (ride-share) or take the affordable metro. Or just use GoTrip.ge for a private car and driver like we did to get out of the city (child car seats are free!)
Photo Hotspots: Check out my detailed post 6 most Instagrammable spots in Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is a city that welcomes you with open arms, warm flavors, and endless photo ops. In just 72 hours, you can uncover ancient landmarks, soak in sulfur baths, sip wine in a repurposed Soviet factory, and even explore rock-cut caves and a royal cathedral.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or adding it to a longer Georgia itinerary, this 3-day Tbilisi itinerary is the perfect way to get a true taste of everything this capital has to offer.
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