Things to Do in Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Old Town Tbilisi (Dzveli Tbilisi) is the historic heart of Georgia's capital, a captivating maze of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful balconied houses, and ancient churches that tell the story of over 1,500 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate area sits dramatically along the banks of the Mtkvari River, where sulfur springs first gave the city its name ('tbili' means warm in Georgian). The district seamlessly blends architectural influences from Persian, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Russian periods, creating a unique urban landscape where 4th-century churches stand alongside Art Nouveau mansions and traditional Georgian houses with their distinctive wooden balconies. Today's Old Town is a vibrant cultural hub where locals and visitors alike wander through atmospheric alleyways discovering hidden wine cellars, traditional bathhouses, artisan workshops, and cozy restaurants serving authentic Georgian cuisine. The area comes alive at night with its famous sulfur baths illuminated against the hillside, while the ancient Narikala Fortress watches over the district from above. Despite centuries of destruction and rebuilding, Old Town Tbilisi has maintained its authentic character and remains the soul of Georgian culture, offering an immersive experience into the country's rich heritage, legendary hospitality, and distinctive traditions.

Old Town Tbilisi offers an exceptional dining scene centered around authentic Georgian cuisine, from family-run taverns serving home-style khachapuri and khinkali to upscale restaurants with modern interpretations of traditional dishes. The sulfur bath district and surrounding streets contain numerous establishments where you can sample Georgian wine alongside grilled mtsvadi (kebabs), lobio (bean stew), and fresh Georgian bread. Many restaurants feature traditional supra (Georgian feast) experiences with toastmasters leading elaborate toasts, while wine bars offer extensive selections from Georgia's unique qvevri-aged wines. Street food vendors sell churchkhela (Georgian snickers), lobiani (bean-filled bread), and other local specialties, while several establishments offer cooking classes for those wanting to learn Georgian culinary traditions.

The best time to visit Old Town Tbilisi is during late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild (15-25°C), rainfall is minimal, and the city's outdoor cafes and terraces are most enjoyable. Summer months (June-August) can be quite hot and humid (25-35°C), though this is peak tourist season with longer daylight hours and numerous festivals. Winter (December-February) sees fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, but some outdoor attractions may have limited hours, though the sulfur baths are particularly appealing during colder months. Georgian wine harvest season in September-October offers special opportunities to participate in traditional winemaking activities, while spring brings blooming trees and comfortable weather for extensive walking through the cobblestone streets.