Tbilisi in summer: How to Enjoy the Best of the Summer Heat

Tbilisi in summer is vibrant, lively, and full of energy. The city welcomes the warmth with outdoor cafes buzzing late into the night, lush parks offering shade, bazaars brimming with fresh fruits and veg, open-air music festivals scheduled on social calendars, and the hills presenting gorgeous sunsets.

However, summer in Tbilisi can be overwhelming and hot for some. Unlike the mild spring and autumn seasons, summer temperatures often rise above 30C (86F) and even hit around 40C (104F) in July and August.

Though the summer heat can be intense, there are plenty of ways to experience the city comfortably. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for exploring. Afternoons call for cooling off in a hidden courtyard, enjoying refreshing treats, escaping the heat in nature, or chilling in a pool.

If you can’t tolerate heat, this might not be the ideal time for your Tbilisi summer vacation. Instead, you’d want to act like a local and look into mountain getaways such as Mestia and Tusheti, where temperatures are low, or into seaside towns like Batumi or Kobuleti. For more ideas, check my Georgia bucket list destinations.

One of the best things about visiting Tbilisi in summer is the variety of outdoor activities. The city comes alive with music festivals, open-air events, wine expos, and energetic nightlife. If you want a break from the urban heat, nearby lakes, botanical gardens, and scenic hiking trails are just a short city bus/taxi away.

Tbilisi’s summer vibe is about embracing the season by savoring chilled Georgian amber wine, wandering through historic neighborhoods in the golden evening light, having a picnic around urban lakes and parks, or joining locals for a night of music and dance.

The heat doesn’t bother me much, and I love Tbilisi summers. The days are long and nights short, seasonal fruits are abundant, the city is colorful with greenery and sporadic flower blooms, and I can wear my flowy summer dresses and have picnics in the parks.

My Tbilisi summer travel guide will help you discover the top season-appropriate activities, the best time to visit for cultural events, what to pack, and where to escape the heat. For more general city itinerary and landmarks, refer to my local guide to Tbilisi.

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How hot is it in Tbilisi in summer?

It’s pretty hot. Tbilisi is known for its warm and sunny summer days and less rain. The summer heat can be intense because it’s lodged between the hills and the constant construction of high-rise buildings. The air quality also plays its part; sometimes, it feels stuffy.

If you’re planning a visit, it’s essential to understand the Tbilisi summer weather to make the most of your trip. July and August are the hottest months. It is also prime time when locals go for their summer holidays in the mountains or the Black Sea Coast, and the city feels emptier than usual.

Tbilisi in September still feels like a gentle extension of summer, with warm temperatures prolonging almost the entire month, so this might be your alternative time to visit Georgia’s capital without the scorching heat.  

Best time to visit Tbilisi in summer: what to expect each month

Summers here include long sunny days, blue skies, and warm nights. Each month has its own unique appeal, cultural events, and outdoor adventures.

While each year varies slightly from the other, here’s a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide when to visit.

Tbilisi in June: warm and pleasant start to summer

June begins summer in Tbilisi, bringing warm but comfortable temperatures averaging from 20C to 30C (68F to 86F), with cooler mornings and evenings perfect for strolling through the city.

The start of the month still feels like Tbilisi in spring, with occasional rain and wind, but you have the chance to enjoy the last spring blossoms. Moreover, the Old Town is less crowded than the peak summer months.

The June temperatures also allow for enjoyable outdoor activities, including hikes around Tbilisi (more on this below). It is also time for the Tbilisi Open Air music festival at Lisi Wonderland, a 25-minute drive from the city center.

Tbilisi in July: start of the peak of summer heat, busy social calendar

It starts to feel quite hot in July, with temperatures frequently rising above 35C (95F) during the day. The city’s heat can feel intense, especially in the afternoon, so it’s best to plan a few indoor activities for your Tbilisi itinerary (you can find some ideas below).

Tbilisi in July is dry, meaning little to no rainfall, but it has longer days. It is also the month when schools are on holiday, and families leave for their prolonged summer holidays in villages, mountains, or the seaside.

The Art-Gene folk festival usually takes place from mid-July in the territory of the city’s Ethnography Museum near Kust Tba (Turtle Lake) and lasts a few days. It is a great chance to introduce yourself to folk traditions, songs, dances, and Georgian food, or maybe even get a handcrafted souvenir to take back home.

Around this time, the National Ballet Sukhishvili returns from its international tours and holds a few traditional dance performances in Tbilisi.

Mzesumzira (sunflower) and Ezo (courtyard) are the two companies that organize one or multi-day outdoor music festivals near Mtatsminda Park.

Tbilisi in August: hot days, but a quieter city

August is still very hot, with average temperatures ranging from 25C to 37C (77F to 99F). The month might feel quieter than July as many locals try to take their summer holiday leave and relax on the coast. Therefore, Batumi, Kobuleti, and other smaller seaside towns are packed.

Things to do in Tbilisi in August are more or less limited in terms of cultural and social events, but since there is always something happening in the capital, you can find ways to entertain yourself.

Much like any other month, mornings and evenings are the best time to explore the city, have a rooftop dinner, cool off in nearby hills, chill at pools, or watch the sunset from Tbilisi’s different viewpoints.

Public holidays in summer in Georgia

Unlike other seasons, Georgia has only one public holiday, August 28th, also known as Mariamoba in Georgian. This significant religious holiday commemorates the Virgin Mary’s Dormition, marking her ascension into heaven after her earthly death. 

The day is celebrated nationwide, with churches holding special services. Since it is a public holiday, many businesses, including museums and galleries, are closed, but dining venues, shops, and grocery stores remain open. 

Top 17 things to do in Tbilisi in summer 

As you now understand Tbilisi summer weather, let’s dive into my curated list of summer activities and outings recommendations.

I provide a variety of tips and ideas to help you make the most of your Tbilisi summer holidays, from scenic hikes to cooling off in local swimming spots, from exploring the city to relaxing and beating the heat with indoor activities, and much more.

Embrace the morning calm as you stroll the streets

We are not morning people in general, and my all-time favorite things to do in Tbilisi in summer are to wake up early, right after sunrise, and go on a morning walk in the city before it wakes up.

Georgians start the day relatively late, around 9-10 am, just like in any other season. However, we compensate it by late-evening social gatherings and activities. Therefore, if you are a morning person or simply want to beat the heat and enjoy a peaceful stroll around before the city noise bursts eardrums, you have a window of 3-5 hours. 

The temperatures are low, the air is cooler, and the streets are literally empty, with a few cars and street sweepers. It is also the perfect time to take photos of the city’s famous landmarks and gorgeous buildings without cars or people.

Tbilisi is a city meant to be discovered on foot, and there’s no better way to explore its charm than wandering through neighborhoods like Sololaki, Mtatsminda, and Chugureti.

It’s easy to spend hours getting lost in the maze of streets, uncovering hidden Tbilisi courtyards, also dubbed Italian, and admiring the city’s diverse mix of architecture—from Soviet-era buildings to intricate early 20th-century Art-Nouveau facades.

Although this is a natural sight for me, I know many foreigners love the atmospheric shared courtyards with lush vines climbing over fences and laundry fluttering in the warm breeze.

Have breakfast, lunch, or coffee at outdoor cafes

Summer in Tbilisi is perfect for al fresco dining as the city’s best cafes and restaurants transform their outdoor spaces into cool, leafy retreats.

Cafe Stamba’s terraces are ideal for a delicious early breakfast, followed by a cute garden of Kikliko for an alternative take on the French Toast. Blue Fox restaurant is another excellent choice in Old Town.

I recommend Lolita, Honore, and Slink Cafe for leisurely brunch or lunch with modern international cuisine. If you need a caffeine-induced break during your wanderings, most specialty coffee shops offer indoor seating, but a few have tables out on the pavements if you want to people-watch while enjoying a cold beverage.

Several traditional and modernized Georgian cuisine restaurants also have outdoor seating areas or gardens. Ninia’s Garden, Shavi Lomi, Tsiskvili Terrace, and Puri Guliani are just a few of the great choices.

And if you want to unwind with a delicious dessert, light lunch, or simply enjoy the surroundings, Tbilisi’s cozy cafes are a wonderful retreat. 

Go on museum hopping

Tbilisi’s galleries and museums offer the perfect retreat if you want to escape the heat and learn more about the capital and the country. The renowned Georgian National Museum is a must-visit for its various artifact rooms. My favorites are the fascinating Archaeological Treasury and Soviet Occupation Hall.

Among the city’s array of lesser-known but equally exquisite museums and independent galleries, my personal favorite is the Georgian Art Palace. This architectural gem, with its castle-like Art Nouveau exterior, romantic backstory, and over 300,000 stunning artifacts, is a personal favorite.

The Academy of Arts Mirror Halls will keep you in awe with its stunning mirror mosaic-covered interiors, and the State Silk Museum offers a deep dive into Georgia’s rich silk production heritage.

For a more offbeat experience, the Tiny Tea Museum shop near Freedom Square combines history and flavor, showcasing vintage tea packaging alongside artisanal Georgian teas.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Tbilisi History Museum and the Wine Museum, both housed in a former Caravanserai—remnants of the city’s vibrant trade routes. The Wine Museum, in particular, provides a fascinating introduction to Georgia’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition.

Tbilisi’s independent galleries, many of which are free to enter, spotlight contemporary Georgian and international artists. Check out my complete post on Tbilisi’s museums and galleries for a more in-depth guide to the city’s must-visit cultural spaces.

Get to know Tbilisi’s bourgoise past

Tucket away behind Tbilisi’s famous landmarks lie stunning buildings, hand-painted entryways, spiral staircases, and weathered yet elegant facades that whisper stories of the past often go unnoticed not only by tourists but locals as well.

You can certainly DIY your self-guided tour through the main and backstreets of Mtatsminda, Chughureti, and Sololaki, but if you’re eager to uncover more about Tbilisi’s hidden architectural gems, learn why the city is dotted with gorgeous mansions and step inside some of the most lavish entryways, I offer Tbilisi Architectural Walking Tours as a passion project.

I have a short Sololaki tour that starts at 10 am and lasts for around 1:30 hrs, an ideal time before it gets too hot in the city. My more extended Mtatsminda and Sololaki tour is in the afternoon and lasts 2:30-3hrs, covering the most magical buildings of two neighborhoods.

During these tours, I share fascinating details and forgotten legends of these buildings and their owners you won’t find in any guidebook.

Check out my tours page, choose the one that intrigues you, and use code RFD20 at checkout for 20% off any tour.

Treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream

Georgian cuisine may not be famous for its traditional desserts, but when it comes to ice cream, the city is all in. From classic gelato parlors to creative, locally inspired flavors, there’s something for every sweet tooth.

The Cone Culture is one of the city’s most inventive ice cream spots. It challenges the notion that one can make ice cream from a handful of ingredients or flavors.

They constantly experiment with tastes, and it blows my mind how sometimes bizarre-sounding flavors actually make very delicious ice cream, such as strawberry and pink basil, Adjika Vanilla or Adjika Chocolate (adjika is a local Georgian sauce made from chili peppers), blue cheese, or caramel Cognac and gingerbread, to name just a few. 

In addition to the classic tastes, they also offer sorbets made from local berries and fruits that are vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. 

Their main booth is behind the Parliament on Shevchenko Street, selling ice cream by scoop or grams. Their other branch is inside the Bazari Orbeliani food court.

Luca Polare, more widespread across the city and the country, is a local favorite for its traditional ice cream and creamy frappes. My go-to is always Stracciatella, but if I am in for a savory taste, I typically pick one of the berry sorbets available.

Feast on fresh, locally-grown fruits and veggies

For me, summer in Georgia means one thing – the sheer abundance of fresh, sun-ripened fruits and vegetables. The city’s markets burst with color as all sorts of berries, various plums, apricots, apples, pears, peaches, and other fruits fill crates and baskets, arriving from Georgia’s countryside throughout the season. 

As the months progress, you’ll notice old cars parked on street corners with their trunks propped open, selling “mountains” of watermelons and melons. Some even have a second refrigerated car selling moderately cold watermelons. Look for the sign “ცივი” (tsivi) on vehicles.

In Old Town, vendors sell fruits sliced and chilled in plastic cups for you to enjoy on the go. Meanwhile, local chefs get creative with fresh ingredients, crafting seasonal dishes that highlight summer flavors. These dishes are often paired with earthy mushrooms, leafy greens, herbs, and beans, to name a few.

Escape the city hustle at lakes

Tbilisi has three major lakes: Kus Tba or Turtle Lake, Lisi Lake, and the Tbilisi Sea, all located slightly on the outskirts but still accessible by various public transport. 

Despite its name, the Tbilisi Sea is a vast reservoir and the water supply for the capital. Located on the outskirts, it offers an escape from the city’s hustle with its lakeside “beaches,” bars and restaurants, a yacht club, a Tbilisi sea club, and a Dendrological Park. While swimming is technically permitted, the water quality and cleanliness vary, so it’s up to you whether you take the plunge.

On the contrary, Kus Tba and Lisi Lakes are easier to get to and a favorite retreat for many locals in summer. You can take a Soviet-era ropeway (check my Tbilisi transport guide for more details) to reach Kus Tba from Vake Park. 

The lake is relatively small, and the walking path is 1 km long. It’s a great place to unwind early in the morning or late in the afternoon. There are also cafes overlooking the lake to sit down and relax.

Lisi Lake, perched above the Saburtalo neighborhood, is another local favorite, especially among families, with a slightly longer walking path of around 3 km, bike lanes, and a bike hire spot. 

The area has restaurants, cafes, and booths selling food, ice cream, and drinks. Coffee LAB, one of Tbilisi’s specialty coffee shops, recently opened a gorgeous cafe here. A sulfur bath and a spa called Lisi Bath is an alternative for Abanotubani’s sulfur baths.

Whenever we go up to Lisi Lake, we typically bring a picnic blanket and sit under the trees after walking around the lake to have a picnic and enjoy summer days.

No public transport to Lisi Lake is available, but it’s a 15-20-minute taxi ride from the city center. I recommend installing the Bolt taxi app.

Hike up the hills for some mountain breeze

To escape the heat, it is a good idea to head to the high points around Tbilisi, where the temperatures feel slightly cooler. Mtatsminda mountain, the highest peak towering over the city, features a vast amusement park on top, restaurants, food and drink stalls, and plenty of benches under the trees.

There’s not much to do here besides riding various carousels and walking around, but Tbilisi’s prime viewpoint offers 360 panoramic views. It is lovely at sunset or at night when the city twinkles with lights. You can get there by a newly renovated Soviet-era cable car, a modern Funicular tram, or bus #364 from Rustaveli Avenue near the metro.

Alternatively, you can hike up from the Mtatsminda neighborhood to the park via Mama Daviti Church and Mtatsminda Pantheon, but in the scorching heat, I doubt it’s a great idea. Walking down is much more pleasant. To use Funicular or the cable car, read my transport guide.

A leafy escape at Betlemi Rise in the Old Town is another great place to enjoy a packed snack while soaking in stunning views (another of my favorite vantage points).

The National Botanical Garden in Old Town offers a refreshing retreat with shaded hiking paths, trickling streams, and dense greenery—a great choice for those seeking tranquility and adventure.

Dance till the dawn at various outdoor music festivals & events

Summer season in the capital also brings open-air music festivals and several events almost every or every other weekend.

The most anticipated event among locals is the annual Tbilisi Open Air Altervision, a music festival held at Lisi Wonderland, about 25 minutes from the city center.

A fusion of electronic beats, rock, indie, and other genres, the Tbilisi Open Air lineup usually consists of international headliners and the country’s most promising artists.

The mid-June event lasts three days and is always scheduled on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The festival grounds feature art installations, food booths, various bars, and even stalls selling handcrafted items. The organizers provide free transportation and a camping zone.

If a three-day music festival is too much for you, Ezo and Mzesumzira host open-air, multi-day, or one-day music events throughout the season on Mtatsminda Hill behind the park.

The best way to check what’s on the social calendar in Tbilisi is to look at Tkt.ge and Biletebi ticketing websites.

Soak in the sun at the city’s various pools

Tbilisi boasts a wide variety of swimming pools, both in the city and on its outskirts. Many hotels offer indoor and outdoor pools, while a few independent venues are scattered across the city. Prices vary, and all have day passes for visitors looking to escape the summer heat.

Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel’s Anne Semonin Spa pool offers a luxurious retreat high above the city with breathtaking views. Chughureti’s Forma Summer is a trendy option with a lively atmosphere. Holiday Inn has a rooftop pool in Saburtalo, and the pool of Axis Towers is indoors but has a skylight and floor-to-ceiling windows that don’t make you feel you’re indoors.  

For those who want to go out of the city, Orbeti Pool Club (50 minutes away) or Sevsamora Resort & Spa (40 minutes away) are excellent choices, but with need a car. Giuanni Winery is another great option about an hour drive from Tbilisi. For a closer option, Mtskheta also has a few choices.

Wander the stalls of street markets

Year-round, Tbilisi hosts street markets and occasional food festivals. STALL organizes weekend markets on Rustaveli Avenue in front of the Youth Palace near the Freedom/Liberty Metro, offering space to artists and handcrafters to showcase their works. The artists rotate once every week (sometimes every other week), so there’s at least one new vendor every time I walk by the area.

We used to have food markets, where local professional and amateur chefs showcased their creativity, and famous restaurants and cafes made their dishes into street-food versions, but sadly, I didn’t see this happen last year.

Occasionally, Tbilisi also has an agricultural market organized by STALL, which brings the best artisanal produce from across the country. While they are not highly active on their Facebook page, I still advise you to check for upcoming dates and locations.

Enjoy a spectacular sunset from Tabori church

My top favorite vantage point in the Old Town is Narikala Fortress, and my second favorite is Tabori Hill. As a side note, Narikala Fort is currently closed for renovations. 

Tabori Church, perched atop the hill, unfolds the city’s historic heart before your eyes—Narikala Fortress standing proudly on its ridge, the domed sulfur baths snuggled in Abanotubani, the pastel-colored wooden balconies of Old Town, the greenery of Rike Park, and the sprawling Avlabari district crowned by the golden-domed Holy Trinity Cathedral.

It’s a sweeping vista that is beautiful any time of the day but particularly gorgeous during sunset.

To reach the Tabori Church, follow Baazov Street to its end, where you’ll spot a modern metal circular staircase. Walk up the stairs, and a newly constructed wooden pathway will guide you through a scenic route to the church.

Sip wine at an expo

Although the majority of wine fairs and festivals happen in Tbilisi in spring and autumn, WinExpo, an international wine and spirits exhibition, comes to the capital during the first week of June.

Hosted at Expo Georgia, this annual event brings together hundreds of winemakers, big and small, industry professionals, and enthusiasts across Georgia and the region. It’s a dynamic showcase of the latest vintages and emerging trends in the industry.

It is an all-you-can-taste experience where you can sample everything from traditional Qvevri wines to innovative blends crafted by up-and-coming producers.

WinExpo 2025 is scheduled for June 6-8. Tickets are not on sale at the moment but will most likely be available at Tkt.ge. Monitor their Facebook page for updates. 

Celebrate Georgian traditions & culture at the Art-Gene Festival

Established in 2004, the Art-Gene Festival is one of the most famous folk festivals in the country, celebrating and preserving the country’s rich folklore and artistic heritage. 

In my late teens, this was a go-to event among my group of friends, although we were not into folk at all, but this was one of the very few cultural celebrations happening in Tbilisi back then. 

Held yearly in July at the Open Air Museum of Ethnography near Kus Tba (Turtle Lake), the event brings together traditional music, dance, crafts, and culinary traditions across Georgia’s diverse regions.

The highlight for everyone, even in my teens, is the performance by Sukhishvili, Georgia’s internationally recognized national ballet, known for its choreography.

The festival lasts six days and is typically held over two weekends in mid to late July. Events start in the late afternoon and continue into the evening.

In 2024 it was held on July 19-21 and July 26-28. Art-Gene Fest 2025 dates are not yet released, but check their Facebook page for updates and ticket prices.

Watch the captivating performance of Sukhishvilii

Watching a traditional Georgian dance performance is an absolute must if you ask me, no matter the group, but if you can score tickets for Sukhishvili National Ballet, that’s even better.

As the country’s legendary national ballet, Sukhishvili combines stunning choreography, gravity-defying leaps, and the rich traditions of Georgian dance into a spectacular show.

After their international tour, they return home in summer and host a few shows, including a short one at the Art-Gene Fest. However, I recommend attending their full program at Takara Tbilisi, their open-air stage around 30 minutes from the city. Tickets are available at Tkt.ge

Embrace the outdoors and hit the trails

The surrounding hills of Tbilisi offer a wide array of hiking trails through forests. Mtatsminda Park and Kojori town (accessible by city bus) are great starting points for various short, half-day, or longer, almost full-day hikes.

Mtatsminda Park to Kus Tba (Turtle Lake) follows a beautiful leafy forest through an easy hiking path, while the majority part of the Kojori to Mtatsminda Park trail follows the trek without much of the coverage, which might not be ideal for many. However, I did it in summer, which was still pleasant.

For more extended hikes, you can try Kojori to Asureti, the former German village in the Kvemo Kartli region. But you’d need to catch the transport back from Asureti to Tbilisi.

If you don’t want to go alone and prefer to join an organized hiking tour, check the WT Georgia websit, as they often have various trips around Tbilisi scheduled already. Mention Red Fedora to get 10% off on any of their tours.

Tackle the rapids with white water rafting

For adventure seekers, white water rafting along the lively currents of the Mtkvari or Alazani Rivers is an exhilarating experience. This high-energy pursuit involves skillfully maneuvering an inflatable boat through a fast-moving mountain river, conquering swirling rapids, sudden drops, and challenging obstacles.

Therefore, if you are into an adventurous day trip, summer is the best time as the river levels drop, and the ride is enjoyable to beginners and experienced rafters.

Extreme Rafting near Borjomi is my top choice for Mtkvari River rafting. Tengo and his team are professionally trained, certified guides with years of experience, ensuring excitement and safety.

If you want a slightly closer option to Tbilisi, check out their rafting tours on the Aragvi River near Pasanauri. To book your spot, visit their website or Facebook page.

What to wear in summer in Tbilisi

Since Tbilisi summers are hot and sunny, you must pack comfortable and breathable clothes. Here’s a general overview and my personal tips as a local on what to wear in Tbilisi in summer to help you stay cool and make the most of your trip.

Lightweight and breathable clothing: When packing Tbilisi summer, opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Floral or plane dresses, airy tops, and relaxed shorts or flowy skirts are ideal for staying comfortable in the heat. Men can go for linen shirts, simple T-shirts, and cotton shorts. Oto always wears his The North Face shorts. Women may prefer breezy sundresses or lightweight jumpsuits.

Sun protection: The Georgian sun can be intense, especially during midday. Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight scarf to shield your skin. Sunscreen with a high SPF is a must, particularly if you plan to walk around the city, hike, or take day trips to nearby areas.

Comfortable footwear: Tbilisi’s streets are filled with cobblestones, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. I typically wear either my Teva walking shoes or The North Face sandals. Avoid heels unless you plan a special evening out, as the uneven pavements can be tricky to navigate.

Evening outfits: While Tbilisi is generally casual during the day, evenings can be more stylish, depending on your plan. If you book a table at a fine-dining restaurant, pack a slightly chic dress (but not too formal) or a lightweight blazer to elevate your look. Generally, we are not too obsessed with dress codes.

Light jacket or shawl: Even though summer nights are warm, some areas, especially near the hills, can get breezy. A light jacket or shawl will be handy for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces. 

A shawl and a scarf are also essential for women visiting churches and monasteries, as we must cover our heads. Most religious sites provide a box of communal scarves and apron-like skirts, but I’d prefer to have my own.  

Swimwear and activewear: If you plan on visiting outdoor pools or the Tbilisi Sea, don’t forget your swimwear and a quick-dry towel. Pack breathable activewear and sturdy sneakers for hiking trips.

Power adapter: Georgia uses European-style plugs, specifically Type C and Type F, with a standard voltage of 220V. Bring a universal adapter to stay connected if your devices use a different plug type.

Reusable water bottle: The tap water in Georgia and Tbilisi is safe to drink, and you’ll find public water fountains scattered across Tbilisi—perfect for refilling on the go. To minimize plastic waste and save space in my bag, I always carry my Stojo collapsible water bottle. It folds down when empty, making it incredibly convenient for travel.

I also have Stojo’s collapsible cups, which is excellent for enjoying a hot/cold drink while exploring. Most places are happy to pour coffee into a reusable cup instead of a disposable one—just ask!

Daypack or crossbody bag: A lightweight and comfortable bag is essential for carrying daily necessities like water, snacks, and a camera. I personally use the CITYC 2-in-1 Backpack from Driibe, but tote or crossbody bags will work just fine. However, always be aware of your surroundings and pickpocketers. Although petty crime is low, it still happens.

Where to stay in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has a diverse range of accommodations, from design boutique hotels and stylish apartments to budget-friendly hostels.  

Choose a hotel in the city’s center during the summer months to minimize your commute on hot days. It’s even better if they have a swimming pool! AC is a standard practice in hotels, hostels, apartments, and pretty much everywhere.

If you’re unsure which neighborhood suits your travel style, my in-depth Tbilisi neighborhood guide offers valuable insights to help you decide. In the meantime, here are my top hotel recommendations for an unforgettable stay in summer in Tbilisi: 

Boutique hotels in Tbilisi: Glarros Old Town – This 5-star hotel, whose design reflects the city’s rich history, offers elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views, and a spa.

Mid-range Hotels: The Ibis Budget Tbilisi Center is a 3-star hotel near Freedom/Liberty Square. It has clean and comfortable rooms and a breakfast buffet.

Budget-friendly Hotels: Fabrika Hostel & Suites is located in the old historic part. It is housed in a former Soviet sewing factory and features a unique design and architecture with aged concrete walls enhanced with industrial elements. It is a multifunctional space you can read all about in my separate post of Fabrika Tbilisi. 

Luxurious Hotels: The Pullman Tbilisi Axis Towers in he Vake district offers stunning city views from its modern rooms. It also features a variety of restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center.