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Anchiskhati Basilica, საქართველო - Things to Do in Anchiskhati Basilica

Things to Do in Anchiskhati Basilica

Anchiskhati Basilica, საქართველო - Complete Travel Guide

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia (საქართველო), is a captivating city where ancient history meets modern energy. Home to the historic Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in the city dating back to the 6th century, Tbilisi showcases centuries of cultural heritage through its cobblestone streets, traditional balconied houses, and diverse architectural influences from Persian, Byzantine, and Soviet eras. The city straddles the Mtkvari River and offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, reflected in its cuisine, art, and warm hospitality. From the sulfur baths that gave the city its name to the contemporary galleries and wine bars, Tbilisi provides an authentic Georgian experience while serving as the perfect gateway to explore the country's rich Orthodox Christian heritage, exemplified by sacred sites like the Anchiskhati Basilica.

Top Things to Do in Anchiskhati Basilica

Explore Old Town Tbilisi and Historic Churches

Wander through the atmospheric cobblestone streets of Old Tbilisi, visiting ancient churches including the iconic Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city. The historic district features traditional architecture, charming courtyards, and religious sites that showcase Georgia's deep Orthodox Christian heritage.

Booking Tip: Most churches are free to visit, though donations are appreciated. Best visited in the morning (9-11 AM) to avoid crowds and capture beautiful lighting. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and long pants; headscarves for women are recommended.

Ride the Cable Car to Narikala Fortress

Take the scenic cable car ride from Rike Park to the ancient Narikala Fortress for panoramic views over Tbilisi's red-tiled roofs and the Mtkvari River. The 4th-century fortress offers stunning photo opportunities and a chance to explore the ruins while enjoying breathtaking city vistas.

Booking Tip: Cable car tickets cost around 2.5 GEL ($1) each way. Best times are early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting. Purchase tickets at the station; no advance booking needed.

Experience Traditional Georgian Cuisine

Indulge in authentic Georgian dishes like khinkali (soup dumplings), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and local wines in traditional restaurants. Georgian cuisine reflects the country's position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offering unique flavors and cooking techniques.

Booking Tip: Traditional restaurants range from 15-40 GEL ($6-15) per person. Look for places popular with locals rather than tourist-focused establishments. Wine tastings typically cost 20-50 GEL ($8-20).

Relax at Abanotubani Sulfur Baths

Visit the historic sulfur bath district where Tbilisi was founded, featuring distinctive domed brick bathhouses built over natural hot springs. These therapeutic baths have been used for centuries and offer a uniquely Georgian wellness experience in beautifully preserved traditional architecture.

Booking Tip: Private baths cost 40-80 GEL ($15-30) for 1-2 hours depending on the facility. Book in advance during peak season. Bring flip-flops and consider visiting in the evening for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Stroll Through Rustaveli Avenue and Modern Tbilisi

Walk along the main thoroughfare of Rustaveli Avenue, lined with theaters, museums, cafes, and shops, showcasing both Soviet-era architecture and modern developments. The avenue connects many of the city's cultural landmarks and offers insight into contemporary Georgian life.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot. Many museums charge 3-10 GEL ($1-4) entrance fees. Best experienced during daytime for shopping and cultural sites, or evening for dining and nightlife.

Getting There

Tbilisi is accessible via Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport, located about 20km from the city center, with direct flights from major European cities and connections worldwide. The airport bus (line 37) costs 1 GEL and takes 45 minutes to reach the city center, while taxis cost around 30-40 GEL ($12-15). Alternatively, visitors can reach Tbilisi by bus or marshrutka from neighboring countries, with regular connections from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, though border crossings can be time-consuming.

Getting Around

Tbilisi's public transportation system includes metro, buses, and minibuses (marshrutkas), all accessible with a MetroMoney card costing 2 GEL with 0.50 GEL per ride. The compact Old Town area, including the Anchiskhati Basilica, is best explored on foot due to narrow cobblestone streets. Taxis are affordable (5-15 GEL for most city rides) and can be hailed via apps like Bolt or Yandex Taxi. For longer distances or day trips, consider renting a car or joining organized tours, as public transport to outlying areas can be limited.

Where to Stay

Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)
Rustaveli Avenue
Sololaki District
Vera District
Vake
Saburtalo

Food & Dining

Tbilisi's dining scene ranges from traditional Georgian taverns serving khinkali and khachapuri to modern fusion restaurants and cozy wine bars. The Old Town area near Anchiskhati Basilica features numerous authentic restaurants where you can sample Georgian specialties paired with local wines from regions like Kakheti. Street food is popular and affordable, with vendors selling lobiani (bean-filled bread) and churchkhela (traditional candy). For a more upscale experience, head to Rustaveli Avenue or the Vera district, where contemporary Georgian cuisine is reimagined in stylish settings, often featuring organic ingredients and natural wines.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Tbilisi

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Vera Italiana Restaurant

4.8 /5
(1364 reviews) 2
bar

Ratto Bistró

4.7 /5
(1205 reviews)

ALFREDO

4.7 /5
(1098 reviews)

Tbilisimo

4.8 /5
(760 reviews)

Farina Tbilisi

4.8 /5
(731 reviews)

Ambrosiano

4.6 /5
(749 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tbilisi is during late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant for walking around historic sites like the Anchiskhati Basilica. Summer (June-August) can be quite hot and humid, though this is peak tourist season with longer daylight hours and numerous festivals. Winter (December-February) is cooler but offers fewer crowds and a chance to experience Georgian hospitality in cozy indoor settings, plus potential snowfall that beautifully frames the city's ancient architecture.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Georgian phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and 'gamarjoba' (hello) opens many doors
Georgian wine culture is central to social life - accept invitations to supra (traditional feasts) for authentic cultural experiences
Carry small bills as many vendors and taxi drivers may not have change for large denominations

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