Top Rated Attractions in Tbilisi

Tbilisi has its very own bathhouse district, Abanotubani, which has the Mtkvari River on one side and rugged mountains on the other. Between these two, hot steam billows from hive-like domes, which are the famed historical sulfur baths; that Abanotubani is known for. Presently, there are five to choose from, they are the Orbeliani Baths, Royal Bathhouse, sulfur baths, Bakhmaro baths and the Bathhouse No.5. These are built on the lines of Persian traditions with one difference and that is the water which naturally springs from the earth with temperatures ranging between 75 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit. From the five baths mentioned, without any doubt, the Orbeliani with its ornate blue-tiled exterior mosaic is the reigning queen of baths. Besides the sulfur baths, there are numerous ancient religious buildings which include Armenian, Catholic churches and even Ateshga -Zoroastrian fire temple. However, the baths are the predominant attraction in Abanotubani.

Overlooking the Mtkvari River, the Narikala Fortress dates back to the fourth Century. Dominating the city's skyline, this ancient edifice is a reminder of the rich history of this, former Soviet nation. Once a key figure in the city's defense, with its high walls and seemingly impregnable towers, this historic structure is now a major tourist attraction which also features the 13th-century church of St Nicholas. Located on Mount Mtatsminda, spectacular views of the landscape can be enjoyed from Narikala.

Located in the capital city of Georgia, the Bridge of Peace is a stunning pedestrian bridge that connects the eastern and western banks of the Mtkvari River. Stretching 150 meters (490 feet), this bow-shaped overpass is the most convenient route from Tbilisi's Old Town to the city's swanky commercial district. One of the major tourist attractions of the city, the structure is essentially a steel framework with glass sheets completing its canopy. It is further illuminated with more than 1,000 LED lights that add a celestial touch to the engineering marvel. Four distinctive programs control the light effects on the bridge, which further radiates due to foot traffic thanks to the motion sensors-enabled LED lights. Its graceful frame completed with the play of lights makes the bridge appear like a gently undulating, sparkly wave. The bridge was opened to the public on 6th May 2010 and offers stunning views of some of the city's most iconic landmarks like the Metekhi Church and the Narikala Fortress.

Towering at more than 70 meters (229 feet), the Holy Trinity Cathedral's golden dome reveals itself from quite afar. Perched atop a hill, the cathedral's architecture is quintessentially Georgian, further adorned with a golden dome and topped with a cross clad in gold. The interior is replete with nine chapels, marble-tiled floor leading one to the ornate iconostasis. Encompassed by the Sameba complex, the ancient cathedral today stands in the company of a theological academy and a rose garden.

A symbol of the city since 1958, Kartlis Deda is a 20 meter (65 feet) tall aluminum statue of a woman, seemingly arising over the foliage of the Sololaki hill. Erected to commemorate the 1,500th anniversary of the Georgian capital, this shimmering statue is a sight to behold especially during the day. Colloquially known as 'Mother of a Kartli', this magnificent sculpture is clad in characteristics Georgian clothing; it holds a sword in the right hand and a bowl of wine in the left one. The sword symbolizes her intentions against the enemies, while the wine is symbolic of friendship and hospitality. An icon of celebration, born out of the imagination of sculptor Elguja Amashukeli, Kartlis Deda is also revered as the city's watcher and protector.

Old Town Tbilisi, also known as Dzveli T'bilisi, is one of the most popular locales of the capital city that is situated on either side of the serene Mtkvari River. This area is a reminder of the city's past as it shelters an intricate network of heritage buildings that date from as early as the 5th Century to the early 20th Century. The neighborhood's charming cobblestone pathways are flanked by old art stores, historic wine cellars and iconic bars that offer its guests a taste of the old world. Some of the major attractions located here include the famous Sulphur baths, the Holy Cathedral of Tbilisi and the iconic Mtatsminda Parkwhich is home to the Old Town's highest elevation.