The Timeless Charm of Old Tbilisi

The historical heart of Georgia’s capital, Old Tbilisi, encompasses several of the city’s oldest districts and neighborhoods. These include Abanotubani, Kharpukhi, Kala, Isani-Avlabari, Sololaki, Mtatsminda, Vere, Ortachala, Chugureti, Didube, and Nadzaladevi. Until 1936, many of these areas were collectively known as Tiflis.

Old Tbilisi is the city’s main tourist draw, home to most of its famous sights and cultural landmarks. One of its most notable features is the natural sulfur baths in Abanotubani, still in operation today. The area also boasts the bustling Sharden Street, lined with popular restaurants, open-air cafés, art galleries, and nightclubs. The district’s signature architecture—wooden homes with carved balconies—adds to its undeniable charm.

Since 2007, Old Tbilisi has been a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site status, a recognition of its historic and cultural significance.

A Glimpse Into the Past

Tbilisi is among the oldest cities in the world, with roots dating back to the 4th century. It officially became the capital of the Kingdom of Kartli in the 5th century under King Vakhtang Gorgasali. Historical records show that the city was originally divided into three main districts—Tiflis, Kala, and Isni—separated by the Mtkvari River.

In those early days, Kala was a fortified area and housed royal palaces, churches, observatories, and bathhouses. The northern slopes of the city were filled with monastic complexes, while the southern slopes featured the Royal Palace Garden. The original city center was located in Kldisubani, but by the 19th century, the focus shifted toward the Sololaki neighborhood.

Exploring the Old Town Today

Modern-day Old Tbilisi is a maze of winding alleys and narrow streets, nestled beneath the Narikala Fortress. Balconies draped with climbing vines, centuries-old brick buildings, and hidden courtyards create a picturesque, almost storybook setting. While some areas have been modernized with bright facades and tourist infrastructure, much of Old Tbilisi retains its authentic atmosphere—cracked walls, weathered wooden homes, and an undeniable sense of history.

The architectural style of Old Tbilisi reflects a mix of Asian and European influences, including classical Russian and Art Nouveau elements. The iconic Abanotubani area, famous for its sulfur baths, lies on the northern edge of the Old Town. The main thoroughfare, Kote Abkhazi Street, links Meidani with Freedom Square and serves as a gateway to many hidden gems.

To the northeast lies Chardeni, one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city, known for its vibrant bar and café scene. On the western edge, Old Tbilisi gradually transitions into Sololaki—a charming, photogenic district ideal for slow strolls and spontaneous discoveries.

A City of Culture and Character

Old Tbilisi is more than just architecture and history; it reflects the soul of the Georgian people. The area is deeply rooted in traditional customs, moral values, and a distinctive urban culture. Its streets echo with the legacy of poets, philosophers, and revolutionaries, while its present-day vibrancy keeps the city’s spirit alive and evolving.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, exploring Old Tbilisi is like stepping back in time—while still feeling the pulse of a modern city. It’s this fusion of past and present that makes Old Tbilisi truly timeless.