What makes a neighborhood of the capital city really striking? Either crowded and popular streets or it’s location and affordable rental price. Also, livability, depending on how attractive a district is for someone based on a variety of factors. Mostly, the main key factor is having a number of good places within the neighborhood where people can go to relax, have fun, and see one another.
Whether you decide to move and stay here, in Tbilisi, for a long time or just visit for a few days, it is smart to do some research about the city and its neighborhoods. So, here is a complete guide to districts of Tbilisi.
Old Tbilisi
Old Tbilisi is a historical part of Tbilisi, which includes the districts and settlements that were called “Tiflisi” until 1936. It is home to most of the sights of Tbilisi and, consequently, is the main center of tourist attraction. This area is well known for the famous Abanotubani – the sulfur baths still operating today. Also, with churches, museums and Shardeni Street, where popular restaurants, open air cafes and bars, nightclubs, galleries and more are located. Another main charm of Old Tbilisi is the architecture – old narrow streets, wooden carved houses and balconies.
Since 2007 Old Tbilisi has been a candidate to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Mtatsminda
The name of this district came from the mountain “Mtatsminda” on which the neighborhood is located. It is one of the oldest districts of Tbilisi, because of this it would not be surprising that the history of its establishment dates back to the 6th century.
On the top of Mtatsminda there is a famous recreation park and Tbilisi TV broadcasting tower, which is connected to the city by road and cable car. The Mtatsminda Pantheon of Georgian writers and public figures is located on the eastern slope of Mtatsminda too. It should be noted that, compared to other neighborhoods, because of its vicinity to the city center, the prices of accommodations in this district are relatively high.
Vera
Vera is one of Tbilisi’s oldest neighborhoods, located in the southeast. It is situated on the river Vere’s right side. The river’s name was, unsurprisingly, the inspiration for the neighborhood’s name. District also includes Pikris Gora, a minor neighborhood, located between Varaziskhevi and Nikoladze streets. Vera is a vintage-style area with historic buildings, hidden gardens, and a diverse range of taverns, cafes, and stores.
In XIX century Vera was crossed by important trade routes. Vera grew significantly around the end of the nineteenth century, and it is today a major area in Tbilisi. It is regarded as the greatest location for all fashion events too. Hotels, with unique design, famed restaurants and events that take place there on a regular basis are one of the most attractive things about this neighborhood.
Vake
In January 1906 Vake officially joined the list of Tbilisi districts, but intensive development began in the second half of XX century. For a long time, Melikishvili Street was the only link between this district and the city center of Tbilisi, but for now Vake is one of Tbilisi’s most populous residential districts.
According to statistics, Vake is one of Tbilisi’s most expensive neighborhoods, following only Mtatsminda. Vake is located near the heart of Tbilisi, close to the Rustaveli metro station. It’s a great area with numerous options for getting around, including walking, bicycling, taking public transportation, or driving.
Saburtalo
Saburtalo is one of the biggest district of Tbilisi that lacks historical and cultural attractions, but It’s a typical residential neighborhood with a huge number of stores, several universities, restaurants and business points. Even “saburtalo” is a special metro line that serves the whole district.
The neighborhood’s main streets are Pekini and Kostava. In terms of traffic, these are the busiest streets. There are various small and large parks in the vicinity, including Lisi Lake, which is a local favorite for getting away from the noisy part of the district. On hot summer days, the area around the historic hippodrome is also a nice place to go for a walk, get a bit of an evening breeze and stroll around with pets.
Chugureti (Marjanishvili)
Chugureti is one of the oldest districts of Tbilisi, on the left side of the river – Mtkvari. Agmashenebeli avenue, Chugureti district’s main arterial route, transforms into an excellent pedestrian zone with European design and Georgian flavor in its southernmost half. From the time when it was a German community, the neighborhood’s backstreets hide some of the most stunning architectural buildings of the 19th century. This area also includes the train station, markets and open-air bazaars.
The Marjanishvili neighborhood is growing increasingly popular among visitors of the city too. The freshly restored Agmashenebeli Avenue provides a view of the city’s beautiful architectural examples, while the avenue’s beginning has been transformed into a pedestrian avenue with bars, cafés, wine bars and shops.