26 Ways to Enjoy Tbilisi in Spring Like a Local in 2025
As the winter cold softens and the sun starts to peek out from behind the clouds, Tbilisi transforms into a stunning wonderland of color and fragrance. Spring in Tbilisi is a season of renewal and rejuvenation as the city comes alive with blooming trees, fragrant flowers, and bustling activity.
With the warm sun on your skin and the scent of blossoms in the air, it’s impossible not to feel uplifted and energized. From lively outdoor parks and gardens to seasonal events, there’s no shortage of experiences to savor in Tbilisi in spring.
This detailed guide includes not only the seasonal activities to enjoy but also lists what to pack for spring in Tbilisi, prepping for the journey, and day trip recommendations at the end of the post.
If you are looking for a more general city guide with local recommendations for landmarks and experiences, check out my ultimate list of things to do in Tbilisi as a local.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps support my blog and lets me share real, first-hand travel tips. Learn more
Why visit Tbilisi in spring?
There’s something about Tbilisi in spring that makes the city feel lighter and more alive. After the grey winter days, spring arrives quickly, and suddenly, you’re walking through blooming streets, sipping coffee under sunny skies, and feeling that shift in energy all around. If you ask me, it’s one of the best times to be here.
While the beginning of spring can be chaotic regarding weather, with snow sprinkling one day (we had snow on the first day of March in 2025) and warm and sunny the next, the city begins to bloom—literally.
Cherry, Magnolia, and Almond trees burst into soft pink and white blossoms across neighborhoods. Turning a corner and finding a quiet street lined with flowering trees and old balconies draped in ivy is a common sight in spring in Tbilisi.
Temperatures rise gradually, and by April and May, it’s perfect weather—warm enough for long walks, light jackets, and late sunsets. Moreover, various flowers, such as Lilacs and Wisteria, are in full bloom by mid-season.
Locals spend more time outdoors, and you’ll feel it in the city’s vibe. Parks fill up, cafes open their terraces, and festivals start popping up. One of my favorite things is just sitting outside with a good coffee and people-watching.
What sets Tbilisi in spring apart from other seasons is the balance—unlike summer, for instance, it’s not too hot, not too cold, and not overloaded with tourists.
You get to enjoy the city at a slower pace, and if you’re into nature, day trips and various hiking opportunities from the city are much more enjoyable.
Spring in Tbilisi also brings seasonal food to fresh markets, filled with fragrant herbs such as mint and tarragon, fresh strawberries and other berries, and abundant fruits and veggies. This is why it is one of my favorite seasons in Georgia.
Restaurants update their menus, incorporating lighter dishes and spring herbs into traditional recipes. Moreover, you’ll see seasonal stables that are not typically on the menu in other seasons.
Traveling to Georgia in spring also means low prices and great deals on hotels and accommodation options.
Plan Your Trip to Georgia Like A Pro
When is the best time to visit Tbilisi in spring?
The spring season starts in March and ends in May. It’s an off-season with fewer tourist crowds, but it is still pleasant for outdoor activities.
Spring weather is unpredictable. You never know how the temperature might change the next day or during the day, so being prepared is the key. At the end of the post, find my local advice on what to pack for the season.
Rains and sometimes unpredictable snowfall are expected (although the latter mainly happens in March). Therefore, depending on the month you plan to visit, I advise including indoor activities on your itinerary.
March in Tbilisi
The first month of spring still feels like winter. Locals call March ‘crazy’ or ‘mad’ because the weather in Tbilisi in March is very inconsistent. It can shift from cold to warm, from wind to rain, and sometimes even snow within a day or two.
The temperatures gradually grow, but even if the forecast shows 15C (59F), the mornings and evenings are still chilly.
Although Tbilisi rarely sees snow in winter, over the past three years, short and very light snowfalls that typically melt in the afternoon or the next day have become standard on the first days of March.
On the other hand, March sees fewer tourists in the main cities of Georgia, making it a perfect time to explore the country crowd-free.
For instance, early spring in the seaside resort of Batumi is my favorite time of the year to hit the Black Sea coast. However, note that the mountain region of Tusheti is still inaccessible.
By mid-March, trees such as tkemali (plum), cherries, almonds, and Magnolias flourish in various parks and neighborhoods in Tbilisi.
Some early spring flowers, such as Daffodils, Tulips, and Hyacinths, are also in bloom, while the winter jasmine blossoms in the Botanical Garden.
April in Tbilisi
For better weather temperatures and warmer days April is another best time to visit Tbilisi in spring.
According to a local folk legend, the month of March was ‘loaned’ three days from April as an act of revenge to a shepherd who scolded March for lasting very long and was grateful that April finally came, guaranteeing warmer and sunnier days.
That said, the first few days of April can be as unpredictable as the weather in March.
Temperatures increase after the first week of the month as the days become longer, often reaching 26C (79F) during the day. The average temperatures range from 12C (53.6) to 19C (67F).
If you want to experience Orthodox Easter, aim for either April or May, and always check my Easter in Georgia guide before buying tickets.
One of the things to do in Tbilisi in April is to admire Sakura and Lilac collection at the Botanical Garden or hunt down Wisteria-covered buildings all across the city for Instagram-worthy pictures.
May in Tbilisi
Although May is the wettest month of the season, it’s also another great month to visit the capital. Days are much warmer and longer, and the city is much livelier than in other months.
Moreover, May also brings several public holidays and many events and festivals, including the KOLGA Photo Exhibition and the Tbilisi Jazz Festival. Other seasonal flowers, such as peonies and roses, start to blossom.
And if you plan on traveling around Georgia in spring, note that roads to mountain areas such as Tusheti are still closed, and snow is still present in the highlands.
Public holidays in spring in Georgia
March 3 – Mother’s Day is a public holiday on which governmental organizations, including schools, museums, and private companies, have a day off.
Shopping malls and small independent stores are open if you want to buy souvenirs to bring home. On this day, it’s customary to congratulate mothers by giving them small or big gifts. There is no specific gift type; it’s a matter of personal preference. Flowers are a standard gift.
March 8 – Women’s Day is also a public holiday similar to Mother’s Day. Gift-giving is not mandatory; it’s more of a personal choice, and often men give flowers to their loved ones.
Local Tip: shops and other service providers announce discounts ranging from 30% to 50% for both days.
April 9 – Day of National Unity is also a public holiday to commemorate those who stood against the Soviet Army in front of the Parliament on Rustaveli Avenue in 1989, demanding Independence for Georgia.
The April 9, also known as Tbilisi Tragedy or Massacre, resulted in 21 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Many of those who died were women of different ages and students.
Peaceful protesters were poisoned by chemical gas, while Soviet soldiers sent by Colonel-General Radianov were armed with blunt weapons and shovels.
People bring lots of flowers and lit candles in front of the Parliament at the April 9 Memorial to respect those who sacrificed their lives for what they believed.
Easter Holidays – the dates vary and fall either in April or May. See my post on how to celebrate Easter like a local.
May 9 – Victory Day is a public holiday commemorating the capitulation of the Greater German Reich in 1945.
May 12 – St. Andrew’s Day is a religious and official holiday commemorating the arrival of Apostle Andrew the First-Called in Georgia. The Georgian Orthodox Church regards him as the first preacher of Christianity and the founder of the Orthodox church in the country.
May 26 – Independence Day is an annual public holiday commemorating the adoption of the Act of Independence in 1918. With this document, Georgia became the Democratic Republic after the Russian Revolution of 1917.
26 top things to do in Tbilisi in Spring
There are plenty of things to do in Tbilisi, and my ultimate local guide is proof of that. However, I decided to write a spring-specific post because the city feels completely different this time of year—lighter, greener, and full of life.
While my general Tbilisi guide covers must-see spots and year-round experiences, this one is all about seasonal moments you can only catch in spring.
Think blooming trees, sipping wine on outdoor terraces, or hiking to viewpoints while the air still feels crisp. Spring has its own pace here, and I want to help you make the most of it.
Seek for various tree blossoms in the city
As temperatures rise, the first sign of spring is various trees blooming in Tbilisi’s neighborhoods. Some trees still have flowers until the first week of April.
Magnolia, Almond, and Cherry flowers flourish first in March, so spending early mornings or afternoons hunting them down is my favorite springtime activity in the city.
Rike Park in the old town and Leonidze Park close to the Freedom/Liberty Square are places to see sprouting Magnolias this time of year.
The Botanical Garden is another excellent place for early flower and tree blooms, especially the Winter Jasmine, Sakura, Lilacs, and Tulips.
Almond trees at Mziuri Park in Vake and Dedaena Park near the Dry Bridge Flea Market are also beautiful in March. The Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography is another excellent option for admiring Almond tree blossoms while learning more about Georgia, its culture, and everyday rural life.
At the beginning of April, wander the streets to find Wisteria draping or creeping up on various buildings. For beautiful Wisteria locations, see my Instagram spots in Tbilisi post.
Roses in Georgia start to flower from the start of May, and many houses in the Old Town have them in their yards.
There are many more spots to see various spring blossoms, so sharpen your eyes as you might accidentally stumble upon them.
Enjoy Tbilisi views from its best viewpoints
The slightly hilly landscape of Tbilisi enables you to enjoy some of the best vistas of the town from high up.
While Mtatsminda Park offers the best 360 panoramic views of the city, I still love views from Narikala Fortress over Abanotubani, Old Town, and Rike Park.
Local tip: Narikala Fortress itself is closed for renovation and inaccessible. The cable car still works, and your best alternative is the view from the statue of the Mother of Georgia.
My second favorite is the view from the Upper Betlemi Church, for another view of the red-roofed old town, Rike Park, and Holy Trinity (Sameba) Cathedral in the background.
My other favorite viewpoint of Old Town is the Tabori Monastery, which has panoramic vistas of the Narikala Fortress, Abanotubani, the Bridge of Peace, and the Avlabari district with the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
A much less known spot is King Parnavaz Garden, located between the Avlabari and 300 Aragveli metro stops. It offers a slightly different perspective of the Mtkvari River with a backdrop of Mtatsminda mountain and a TV Tower.
Even though the Baratashvili Underground Passage is not high, it still provides a perfect viewpoint of old and new architecture, with the Bridge of Peace in the foreground and the Narikala Fortress in the back.
Spend a morning (or afternoon) at charming outdoor cafes
The cafe scene is quite diverse in Tbilisi, and over the past few years, a handful of specialty coffee shops, breakfast-focused eateries, and charming cafes have been opening in the capital.
One of my favorite activities during spring in Tbilisi is taking advantage of warm sunny days and sipping coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
The second branch of Shavi Coffee Roasters in Sololaki, near Freedom/Liberty Square, is a lovely place to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at its outdoor tables.
For a lovely walk and a break in nature in the city center, Cafe Mziuri is another choice that serves sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts, and hot and cold drinks.
Slink, housed in a former greenhouse in Chughureti, is another favorite for brunch, lunch, or a drink on a warm, sunny day. Kikliko is another excellent option for starting your day with a filling breakfast while enjoying warm weather at its outdoor seating area.
Lolita and Cafe Stamba are crowd favorites for chic, modern cafes in Tbilisi. They offer an outdoor seating area, delicious food, and a wide range of drinks.
The outdoor seating area of Cafe Leila in the Old Town is lovely during the tree blossoms. And if you venture out of the city center to admire some Soviet architecture in Tbilisi’s Saburtalo neighborhood, Coffee LAB is an excellent place to have a break in its little courtyard.
Join a cooking class
Cooking classes are a great way to experience local cuisine and learn more about the country’s culture and history. They are also a great backup plan if it rains.
Several cooking classes are available in Tbilisi, depending on how much time you have to spare or how many dishes you want to learn and cook.
For those who are short on time, consider a hands-on cooking class that lasts around two hours and includes Khinkali dumplings and Khachapuri cheese pie. Book via GetYourGuide or Viator.
If you are after a more cozy and authentic experience at a Georgian family house, join Shorena in her kitchen to make the most iconic Georgian dishes—like Khinkali, Khachapuri, eggplant with walnut paste, mchadi (cornbread), and a classic tomato-cucumber salad.
When ready, sit down and enjoy your Georgian Supra with homemade wine and a shot of chacha. Book via GetYourGuide or Viator.
If none of them are your cup of tea, both platforms have a few other options to choose from.
Admire Sakura and other flower blossoms in the Botanical Garden
Tbilisi Botanical Garden is an excellent place to explore year-round. However, it’s even magical when nature comes to life and plants and flowers start to bloom.
Therefore, your spring itinerary should include visiting the garden from the start of April to see Sakura blossoms in the Japanese corner, while from mid-month, it is time for the Lilac collection of at least ten different types and colors ranging from white to dark purple to flower.
When Sakura trees bloom in the Japanese corner, the garden’s administration hosts a Sakura festival over the weekend, collaborating with the embassy to bring Japanese culture to Georgia’s capital.
Both blossoms last approximately two weeks. Monitor Botanical Garden’s Facebook page for updates and events.
Peek inside courtyards for typical Tbilisian scenery of hanging clothes
One of the most charming features of Tbilisi’s old neighborhoods is the traditional courtyard, often a hidden gem behind the city’s narrow streets.
These courtyards are full of character, with intricate details like colorful wooden balconies, wrought-iron gates or staircases, and creeping vines that showcase the city’s unique architectural style .
Tbilisi’s courtyards, known as “Italian”, have nothing to do with Italy or its architecture. They’re often quiet oases tucked away from the bustling streets, where life unfolds in a slow, intimate rhythm. Read my post explaining why they are called Italian Courtyards among locals.
For many foreigners visiting Tbilisi, the sight of hanging clothes drying on lines across courtyards is the sight to behold and are often fascinated by this simple sight, while for locals, it’s a normal part of daily life.
As you wander through Tbilisi, take a moment to peek inside these courtyards to admire the charming details of the architecture or the sight of everyday life where colorful garments flap in the breeze. But remember to be respectful of the residents.
Sip wine at various wine bars
Georgia is considered the cradle of wine, with an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition deeply rooted in the country’s culture.
When the weather is perfect, sipping a glass of chilled wine on a sunny terrace or cozying up in a wine bar is one of my favorite activities.
Tbilisi has no shortage of wine bars offering European-style and traditional Qvevri wines—made in large clay vessels buried underground. Whether you already know a thing or two about Georgian wine or have never heard of Saperavi or Rkatsiteli, you’ll find a wide variety of high-quality wines here.
I recommend booking a tasting at 8000 Vintages if you want a proper introduction. A sommelier will walk you through the different regions, grape varieties, and winemaking methods while you taste four hand-picked wines. It’s a relaxed, informative, and fun way to experience what makes Georgian wine unique.
Otherwise, the staff at Warehouse (part of Stamba Hotel) or Ferments Wine Bar can help you find a type that suits your taste buds. For more spots, check my Tbilisi bars guide.
Relax at parks and urban lakes
Tbilisi is full of spots where locals love to unwind, especially on weekends or whenever they have some free time. As the warm spring weather arrives, the city comes alive, with locals out in full force, enjoying picnics or taking strolls.
Two of my favorite parks for hanging out with friends or just relaxing and soaking up the vibe are Dedaena and Mziuri Parks. These places are perfect for seeing local life and enjoying the greenery.
For those who crave longer walks surrounded by nature, head to Kus Tba (Turtle Lake) or Lisi Lake. Both are fantastic spots to escape the city’s noise, with trails that circle the lakes, offering a peaceful retreat and a bit of fresh air.
Shop for seasonal fruits and veggies at bazaar
Spring in Georgia brings fresh veggies and fruits to the open-air bazaars.
First to arrive are tkemali (sour plum-like fruit), cherry, and my all-time favorite alucha (round green fruit from a plum family native to the Caucasus), followed by a range of berries from strawberries to blueberries and beyond.
To experience a local shopping venture and get a lot for your buck, go to Samgori (Navtlughi) or Dezerter Bazaars. Navtlughi can be cheaper than the famous touristy Dezerter.
Celebrate Easter in Georgia
Georgia is an Orthodox Christian country where Easter is celebrated on different dates than in Catholic countries.
It’s one of the country’s most significant religious celebrations, and if you happen to be here during Holy Week, there are several ways to experience Georgian Orthodox Easter.
Read through my Easter guide, where I talk about quirky and unique traditions and things we do to prepare for Easter.
Alternatively, if you are up for an adventure, attend Georgia’s oldest ball game—Lelo Burti—in the Guria region. It is only played on Easter Sunday.
Try Chakapuli – a seasonal Georgian stew
Chakapuli is an Easter Sunday staple dinner meal in every Georgian family, but during the season, it is also on the menus of several Georgian restaurants.
Traditionally, Chakapuli calls for lamb, tkemali (sour green plum), and tarragon. However, it is usually substituted for veal or beef as many Georgians outgrew eating it.
Don’t worry if you are a vegetarian coming to Tbilisi. The plant-based chakapurli version, made from mushrooms, is as delicious as the meat stew.
Attend wine festivals in Tbilisi
Spring in Georgia also means unsealing Qvevri, the gigantic clay jars. Therefore, the season’s last month brings several wine events and festivals.
One of the things to do in Tbilisi in May is to attend as many wine festivals as possible. Some are free, while others are ticketed.
The New Wine Festival, held every year on the second Sunday in May at Mtatsminda Park, is a free event that aims to introduce wines made from the latest harvest in the fall.
This festival enables winemakers to bring these new wines to the public, where you are among the first to try fresh wines of the year. Expect wineries of all sizes, from big factories to small family-run cellars, to bring their latest creation.
If this is your first time in Georgia, it’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Georgian wine and its production technology.
The Natural Wine Association organizes the Zero Compromise in the first week of the month, but dates vary. It brings natural winemakers to showcase their products.
Sherekilebi is a relatively new event organized outside Tbilisi in Chardakhi at Iago’s Winery, about an hour’s drive from the city. Saamuri Natural Wine Bar at Fabrika Tbilisi also hosts a wine salon that brings natural winemakers to the event.
Check out my Georgian wine festivals guide for dates and practical tips to know before you attend.
Deep clean your body at sulfur baths
Having a sulfur bath experience is one of the must-dos in Tbilisi. Since spring is the time to do various ‘spring cleaning’ chores at home or elsewhere, why not do it for your body and scrub off that winter’s dead skin?
Although sulfur baths are much more pleasant in winter as you soak in the naturally hot water, doing it in spring rejuvenates your body and helps with blood circulation.
Book a qisa scrub – a brisk clearance with a slightly rough loofah to remove that dead skin. I advise you to bring your own loofah or buy a new one at the sulfur baths for hygiene purposes.
Go on a spring hike in Tbilisi and beyond
Tbilisi offers various hiking opportunities within its hilly landscape and city limits. One of the most obvious and famous is the hike up/down Mtatsminda Mount, passing by Mtatsminda Pantheon, a resting place of famous Georgian poets and writers.
Mtatsminda is home to an amusement park, a restaurant complex, and a TV Tower dominating the city skyline. Many visitors come here to enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic city views, as it is one of the city’s best viewpoints.
Once you walk around the park and want a break, sit down at the ground-floor cafe of the Funicular restaurant complex, grab a ponchiki, a Georgian dessert, and pair it with a local Laghidze lemonade.
However, if you don’t want to hike, take the newly renovated Rustaveli-Mtatsminda cable car, a funicular tram, or bus number 364 from Rustaveli Avenue near the Rustaveli Metro. See my Tbilisi public transport guide for details on navigating transport here.
Mtatsminda is also a great base for several other hikes, including Kus Tba (Turtle Lake) or Narikala Fortress in the Old Town.
Kojori is another base for nature enthusiasts who want to return to Tbilisi via Mtatsminda or hike beyond the city limits to Asureti, a former German village in Georgia’s Kvemo Kartli region.
For safety reasons, I advise you not to hike alone. There are various expat groups/pages on Facebook, such as Geo Hikers Tbilisi (Geo-Trip) or WT Georgia, where you can ask for a hiking buddy if traveling solo.
If you are interested in hiking outside Tbilisi, you can either self-hike through Birtvisi Canyon or join WTGeorgia on their tour. Alternatively, they have other organized tours if Birtvisi is not your type of hike.
Celebrate Georgia’s Independence Day
During our turbulent history, we declared Independence twice. We first adopted the Act of Independence on May 26, 1917. However, it only lasted for four years before the Red Army stormed the capital in 1921, and we became the Soviet Socialist Republic and then part of the Soviet Union.
The second time we readopted the Act of Independence was on April 9, 1991, after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Thus, May 26 is the official and national holiday.
From 1991 until today, we have celebrated Independence Day in various forms depending on who the ruling party is. During Saakashvili’s rule (2003-2012), we had massive military parades on Rustaveli Avenue.
Since the Georgian Dream came into power in 2012, Independence Day has included an oath-taking ceremony for Georgian soldiers but no military parade.
However, the entire Rustaveli Avenue is closed to cars and hosts various governmental exhibition booths, live music performances, food, and market stalls.
Visit Tbilisi museums if it rains
If you are not fortunate enough to have blue skies and sun rays during your trip, there are several ways to avoid ruining it. One of my favorite things to do in Tbilisi if it rains is to visit some museums I haven’t been to before.
Since it could be your first time visiting Tbilisi, I suggest going to the Georgian National Museum to learn more about Georgia’s history and culture. Its Soviet Occupation Hall and Archeological Treasury room are the most interesting ones, in my opinion.
Those who’d love to know more about the foundation of Tbilisi go to the Tbilisi History Museum. Art lovers can see paintings of prominent 20th-century local artists at the National Gallery and a massive fine arts collection at the Museum of Fine Arts.
For more inspiration and a backup plan, check out my guide for the best museums in Tbilisi for history, culture, art, and fun.
Explore Art-Nouveau architecture
Tbilisi is known for its mix of architectural styles, from classic wooden-carved courtyards to modern buildings and Soviet brutalism. But if you venture into the city’s backstreets, you’ll discover something even more unique—stunning Art Nouveau buildings and beautifully hand-painted staircases that often go unnoticed by passersby.
My favorite spots to admire these hidden gems are in the Sololaki, Chughureti, and parts of the Mtatsminda neighborhoods. While these European-style mansions are a sight to behold, many need restoration, with some crumbling more each day.
Aghmashenebeli Avenue, recently revamped under the New Tiflis project, showcases a refreshed look, with beautifully restored buildings lining the street.
While you enjoy the views from the streets, remember that some of these buildings are private residences. If you spot an open door and are tempted to explore the entryways and staircases, please respect the residents’ privacy.
If you’re curious to learn more about Tbilisi’s Art-Noveau architectural history and the stories behind these charming, forgotten buildings, I lead architectural walking tours where I dive into the fascinating urban tales that can’t be read in any guidebook.
I’ve been hosting these tours for a while now as a passion project. Check out the available tours and use code RFD20 at checkout for a 20% discount!
Hunt down Tbilisi’s fascinating street art
If you follow me on Instagram and read my posts, you might have noticed that I am a huge street art lover. Fortunately, Tbilisi has been getting quite stunning murals across the city over the past few years.
Most of these murals are scattered throughout various districts—some are in the center, others on the outskirts.
From one street art lover to another, I have dedicated a whole post to these murals, complete with a map, so you can easily find them.
Wander through a vintage flea market
Spring also means shopping at various open-air markets. The most famous one is the Dry Bridge Flea Market, and even though it’s open year-round, more vendors come out from warmer spring days to sell various vintage and second-hand shops.
Walking through the lines of different stuff lying straight on the pavement is one of my favorite weekend activities.
Samgori’s Barakholka Flea Market is a slightly low-key alternative to the famous Dry Bridge Market. Also open year-round, it’s partly open-air and partly covered, but more vendors come out on weekends.
Shop for local handcrafts and souvenirs at open-air markets
Warmer temperatures and sunny days bring out lots of pop-up markets in Tbilisi. The Stall market in front of the Youth Palace, near the Freedom/Liberty Square metro station, is one of the excellent places to shop for handmade items over the weekend.
However, if you are looking for some of the best souvenir shops in Tbilisi, my Georgian souvenir guide is your go-to resource on what traditional and artisanal items to buy and where to find them. It also includes a Google Maps list of the top shops.
Attend the Tbilisi Open Air Music Festival
If you’re visiting in late spring, check out Tbilisi Open Air, the city’s biggest and most anticipated music festival. Usually held in June, the organizers moved it to May 2025.
Held outdoors on the outskirts of Tbilisi, this three-day event brings together local and international artists for a weekend of music, dancing, and laid-back vibes under the open sky.
Tbilisi Open Air has been running since 2009 and has grown into one of the most iconic festivals in the region. Its main concept is freedom—freedom of self-expression, creativity, and community.
The lineup usually includes a mix of indie rock, electronic, alternative, and experimental artists. Past performers have included well-known names like Franz Ferdinand, Archive, and Placebo, alongside local Georgian bands and DJs.
The venue is a large, grassy field just outside the city, at Lisi Wonderland, around a 25-minute drive. There are food trucks, plenty of bars, and chill-out zones.
Get yourself familiar with Tbilisi’s Soviet architecture, mosaics, and a bunker
One of the fascinating aspects of Tbilisi is its Soviet-era architecture, which tells the story of the city’s past. The Soviet period here lasted from 1921 to 1991, and during this time, Tbilisi underwent significant changes in urban planning and social structures.
The Soviet architecture here is a mix of styles of that era, from Stalinist to Brutalism and Modernism, with mosaics and bas-reliefs sprinkled across multiple neighborhoods.
This period in Georgia’s history is one of my passion projects, and I’ve spent considerable time researching and documenting some of the most striking examples of architecture and monumental art.
You can DIY your explorations by following my Soviet architecture guide to Tbilisi for the best and my favorite building. My second post about Tbilisi’s Soviet mosaic art and leftover memorabilia brings you to some of the remaining beautiful mosaics in the city and Communist signs you might miss if you don’t know where to look.
However, doing it by yourself can be time-consuming, so if your trip to Tbilisi is short, I’d suggest joining one of these tours: Brutalist Tbilisi: Urban Exploration and Untold Stories (Viator or GetYourGuide) or Tbilisi: The Urbex and Soviet Tour (Viator or GetYourGuide).
Unfortunately, no tour focuses on monumental mosaic art; most tours concentrate on buildings instead. If, like me, you are also into Soviet-era history, you might be interested in visiting the very first Legal Soviet Bunker in Tbilisi.
Join an ancient celebration of spring
A few villages in the Kakheti region gather fifty days before Orthodox Easter Sunday to mark Berikaoba – an ancient festival celebrating spring, fertility, rebirth, and abundance. In 2025, it was on March 2.
Therefore, if you are considering traveling to Georgia in the spring and want to see something unique, consider a trip to the village of Didi Chailuri, about an hour’s drive from Tbilisi.
The village residents are among the few who keep the tradition going, while it has almost vanished in other parts of the country.
Sadly, there is no organized tourism event for you to attend. You need to DIY your trip and go to Didi Chailuri around 10-11 am on the day of Berikaoba to follow the parade on the main street. Or contact me; I might organize a transfer or a small tour like I usually do.
You can read all the details about the festival and how to get there in my detailed Berikaoba post.
Do a wine tasting in Georgia’s prime wine country
Kakheti is considered to be the country’s primary wine-producing region. Therefore, if you want to familiarize yourself with the country’s 8000-year-old winemaking tradition, there is no better way to do it than by joining a tour.
You can go to Kakheti on your own and visit Telavi or Sighnaghi, but doing it with a well-organized tour company gives you a completely different experience.
My favorite boutique tour company is Eat This! Tours, which organizes premium-quality tours in small groups to Telavi and Signaghi. While the tours are mainly focused on unlimited wine and food, some sightseeing is also involved.
The highlight of their tours is a local, authentic Georgian dinner supra and tamada (toastmaster) experience with toasts and singing from the family members. And if you want to know what to expect, I have a dedicated Sighnaghi Wine Tour review of the company to read through.
Check their website to choose the best tour for your needs and interests. Remember to use the RFD5 discount code for 5% off of any tour.
See the Rainbow Mountains near Tbilisi
One of the great activities in Tbilisi in spring is to get away from the city on a short day trip to the Mravaltskaro Rainbow Mountains in Kakheti’s Udabno area.
Even though they are much smaller than the famous similar mountains in Peru and China, it is still quite an impressive sight.
Since these mountains are in the semi-desert, spring and autumn are the best times to visit for safety reasons and to see a more visible color palette.
The colors of the mountains come from a combination of mineral deposits and erosion over millions of years, making a genuinely unforgettable scenery and experience you may have in Georgia.
Explore nearby places as day trips from Tbilisi
Spring is a perfect time for road trips near Tbilisi, especially to landmarks and towns that get pretty hot during summer. The weather is just right, with long enough days to explore multiple destinations.
The Kakheti region’s Telavi and Sighnaghi are great for popular city breaks without crowds. At the same time, places like Tsalka are ideal for seeing a less-traveled area of the country that almost every traveler misses.
Explore Dashbashi Canyon with its striking diamond-shaped bridge and Uplistsikhe Cave Town before the temperatures rise and summer crowds arrive.
While I believe Gori deserves a two-day trip, you can still easily make a day trip to the town famous for being home to Stalin’s House Museum (although there’s more to the city than just the museum).
If you want to admire the Caucasus Mountains, a slightly long day trip to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) is doable year-round, but it is prettier when the peaks are covered in greenery and a bit of snow is still present.
What to pack for spring in Tbilisi?
When choosing what to pack, consider practicality over chic. Even though Tbilisi’s spring weather has warm sunny days, I advise packing clothes you can layer on.
Early spring in Tbilisi can be cold, so check the weather forecast beforehand and adjust your packing list. Yr.no is the most accurate weather app and the website I use.
Light layers: Weather can be unreliable, so it’s best to pack a number of light layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the temperature. T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, and a light coat or jacket are good options.
Comfortable walking shoes: Tbilisi is best explored on foot, so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers or walking shoes with good support are recommended. For late May, you should also throw in sandals.
Jeans: It is too early for bare-leg dresses and skirts unless you come mid-May.
Flowy skirts and dresses: If you’re coming in late April, pack a few summer dresses you can layer on. I typically travel with these chiffon skirts for my Instagrammable photos in Tbilisi.
Sun protection: The weather can be sunny and warm, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin.
Rain gear: It can also be rainy, so it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight packable raincoat or umbrella.
Water bottle – Tap water is drinkable in Georgia, and since you’ll be walking a lot, bringing a water bottle with you is a great idea. My Stojo collapsable water bottle saves lots of space in my backpack.
Scarf or shawl: Temperatures can drop in the evenings, so it’s a good idea to pack a scarf or shawl to keep you warm. Besides, it is handy when visiting churches because women should cover their heads when entering religious buildings.
Daypack: A small daypack or backpack helps carry your essentials, such as water or snacks. During my city explorations, I use a CITYC 2 in 1 Backpack from Driibe. Read my detailed review of why I love that backpack, and once you decide, get 15% off with code: FEDORA15.
Adapter: Remember to pack an adapter if you’re coming from a country with different electrical outlets.
Travel credit card: While many places in Tbilisi accept credit cards, having cash on hand for small purchases and avoiding any potential issues with card machines is a good idea. I personally use Wise during my international travels.
Get ready for your trip to Tbilisi in spring
Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but having the right tools makes all the difference. Below, you’ll find my go-to travel resources—services I personally use to book flights, rent cars, stay connected, get around, and stay covered in case something goes wrong.
Whether you’re looking for cheap flights, need airport transfers, or want peace of mind with proper insurance, these platforms help make travel smoother, safer, and more affordable.
Find cheap flights to Tbilisi
When I start planning a trip, I always check flight comparison tools first.
I use Skyscanner and WayAway the most. Both make it super easy to find the best flight deals, especially when your plans are flexible.
One of my favorite features on both platforms is the “Anywhere” search. Just pick your departure city and leave the destination open, and you’ll get a visual map or list of the cheapest places to fly.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for spontaneous getaways or want to find budget-friendly routes. I usually compare both to get a bigger picture of my options.
Get travel insurance
Having a travel insurance became a mantatory document when traveling to Georgia.
No one plans for things to go wrong while traveling, but unexpected situations happen—flight delays, lost luggage, sudden illnesses, or accidents.
That’s where travel insurance comes in. Having the right coverage ensures you’re not stuck with expensive medical bills or unexpected costs while navigating a foreign country.
I use SafetyWing travel insurance whenever I travel. The plans are built for frequent travelers or digital nomads needing an affordable, easy, and admin-free subscription-based insurance model that works worldwide.
Check out detailed SafetyWing plan coverage, or read my review.
Purchase an eSIM
Staying connected while traveling is a game-changer—whether it’s for navigating, booking rides, checking reservations, or just sharing moments on the go.
I’ve been using eSIMs for several years now, and honestly, it’s one of the easiest ways to get mobile data abroad without hunting for local SIM cards or worrying about hefty roaming fees.
My go-to apps are Airalo and Saily. Both let you buy and activate data plans directly from your phone, often within minutes. It’s all prepaid, with no contracts, and you can still keep your original number active in case you need to get a call or an SMS verification.
Airalo is available in most countries worldwide and offers various plans for different travel lengths. Use code BAIA2592 for 3 USD credit at checkout.
Saily, created by NordVPN, also offers affordable packages for international travel and allows you to change your virtual location for safe internet browsing. I also have a discount code BAIAIR6152 to get 3 USD off your first purchase.
Rent a car for road trippin
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore places independently—especially in countries where public transport doesn’t cover remote areas or runs infrequently.
To book a rental, I usually check two platforms: DiscoverCars and LocalRent.
DiscoverCars is a global search engine that compares major international and local companies to help you find the best deals in one place.
LocalRent, on the other hand, focuses on destinations like the Caucasus, the Balkans, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia and connects you directly with trusted local providers who often have better prices, more flexible terms, and even insurance included in some cases.
Pre-book your tours
I like exploring places on my own, but sometimes booking a guided tour saves so much hassle—especially for popular attractions or places that need a bit more context to fully appreciate.
I usually use Viator and GetYourGuide to book activities, day trips, or entry tickets in advance.
Both platforms offer a wide range of tours—from small-group experiences to private guides—and often include fast-track entry, a massive bonus in busy destinations.
I like comparing both to find the best fit, whether I’m looking for a cultural walking tour, a cooking class or just want to skip the ticket line at a museum.
What if your flight delays or cancels?
Flight delays and cancellations are annoying enough—but what’s worse is not knowing if you’re entitled to compensation.
AirHelp can help you claim compensation without the paperwork and frustration if your flight gets delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
I’ve been using AirHelp+, which gives you extra support, faster processing if something goes wrong on your trip, and no fees if the company wins the case.
It also covers you for missed connections and lost/delayed/damaged luggage and grants you access to airport lounges if your flight is postponed. It gives me peace of mind, especially when flying with layovers or during peak seasons.
Even if you don’t use it all the time, it’s one of those services worth having in your back pocket—because when you need it, you’ll really need it.
Where to stay in Tbilisi
Considering the many accommodation options, choosing the right place might take a lot of work. While I have a dedicated post of where to stay in Tbilisi with an overview of neighborhoods and hotels, I decided to give you a short list here:
Best Tbilisi Hotels to Stay
Blue Fox Hotel
Cozy boutique stay in a typical Tbilisi house with woodencarved balconies, just steps from Old Town.
Stamba Hotel
Tbilisi’s design icon inside a former Soviet printing house. Retro-industrial interiors, trendy restaurants, and a lively vibe loved by creatives.
Bazzar Boutique Hotel
Stylish boutique hotel right on Orbeliani Square with beautiful rooms, top-notch breakfast, and easy access to cafés, flea market, and Rustaveli Avenue.