Tbilisi's top sights and hidden treasures

Once overlooked by mainstream tourism, Georgia's capital Tbilisi has quietly become one of the most intriguing in Eastern Europe.

- Marion Smith

The Georgian city, nestled along the Mtkvari River, framed by soft rolling hills, blends centuries of history with a growing creative energy.

Its cobbled streets, sulphur baths and vibrant food culture sit comfortably alongside futuristic architecture and new design districts, evidence of a city reinventing itself while staying rooted in tradition.

For South Africans, there is added appeal – Georgia offers visa-free entry for up to one year, making it an accessible option for longer stays or cultural getaways.

Tbilisi's Old Town remains the city's beating heart. Exploring it on foot reveals the layers of influence that have shaped the city over centuries.

Local guide Guran Alaphishvili, who has worked in the tourism industry for nearly two decades, says the district tells a living story of coexistence that continues to evolve.

The Jewish, Armenian and German quarters stand as quiet reminders of that multicultural past, with synagogues, churches and traditional homes sharing the same narrow alleys.

Tbilisi is a city in transition, ancient and modern

The area feels less like a preserved attraction and more like a functioning neighbourhood where history breathes through the walls.