Akhaltsikhe (Rabati) Castle: A Fortress of History and Culture
Explore the historic Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe, Georgia: a blend of Georgian, Ottoman, and Russian cultures in a beautifully restored fortress.
Akhaltsikhe Castle, also known as Rabati Castle, is a prominent landmark in Akhaltsikhe, Georgia, with origins tracing back to the 9th century. Originally named Lomsia, it was later renamed Akhaltsikhe, meaning 'new castle'. The castle showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the diverse cultures that have influenced the region throughout its history.
A brief summary to Akhaltsikhe (Rabati) Castle
- JXVH+56V, Akhaltsikhe, GE
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Explore the entire complex, including the lower modern section and the upper historical area, to fully appreciate the blend of cultures and architectural styles.
- Visit the Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum within the castle to delve deeper into the region's rich history and see its collection of artifacts.
- Climb the castle walls and towers for panoramic views of Akhaltsikhe and the surrounding landscapes.
- Check the opening hours, which vary depending on the season, to ensure you have ample time to explore the castle.
- Consider visiting in the evening to see the castle beautifully illuminated after dark.
Getting There
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Walking
Akhaltsikhe Castle is located in the city of Akhaltsikhe and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. From the central bus station, head southwest along Erekle II Street, then turn left onto Javakhishvili Street. Continue straight, and the castle entrance will be visible on your right. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no entrance fees for the lower part of the complex. However, to access the upper part, including the museum and mosque, a ticket is required, costing 20 GEL for foreign visitors.
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Public Transport
Local buses run throughout Akhaltsikhe, and several routes pass near the castle. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. From the City Hall bus stop, routes 3 and possibly others will take you close to Rabat Center. A single bus fare costs approximately 0.5 GEL. After getting off the bus, a short walk will lead you to the castle entrance. Entrance to the lower part of the castle is free, while the upper part requires a ticket costing 20 GEL for foreign visitors.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Akhaltsikhe. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to Akhaltsikhe Castle typically costs between 3-5 GEL. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi will drop you off near the main entrance of the castle. Remember that entrance to the lower part of the castle is free, but a ticket is needed for the upper part, priced at 20 GEL for foreign visitors.
Discover more about Akhaltsikhe (Rabati) Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Samtskhe-Javakheti DMO
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Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Samtskhe-Javakheti with the Municipal Department of Tourism as your guide.
Yard
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Hotel Gino Wellness Rabati
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Experience the perfect blend of history and luxury at Hotel Gino Wellness Rabati, nestled in the heart of Georgia's ancient Akhaltsikhe.
Old Street
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Discover the allure of Old Street in Akhaltsikhe, where history meets hospitality in the heart of Georgia.
Tsikhisdziri
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Experience the beauty and comfort of Tsikhisdziri, a serene hotel in Akhaltsikhe, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Old Rabati
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Castle
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Lomsia Castle
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Explore the stunning Lomsia Castle in Akhaltsikhe, a fascinating piece of Georgian history offering breathtaking views and rich cultural insights.
Rabati St. Marine church
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Saghighino
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Kantora 19
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Dubli
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LOMSIA
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Discover the perfect blend of comfort and local charm at LOMSIA Hotel, your gateway to exploring the rich history of Akhaltsikhe, Georgia.
Hotel Almi
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Akhaltsikhe Inn
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sultan Ahmad Mosque
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Samtskhe-Javakheti History Museum
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გიორგი V ბრწყინვალე
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Commemorating Georgia's golden age, the statue of Giorgi V the Brilliant stands as a tribute to a king who restored the kingdom's glory in Akhaltsikhe.
Queen Tamar Statue
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Waterfall
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Explore Amiranis Gora in Akhaltsikhe: Uncover Bronze Age secrets at this significant archaeological site.
Sapara Monastery
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ამაღლების გორა (სატიკნე)
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Waterfall Agara
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Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory
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Atskuri Fortress
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Okros Tsikhe Fortress
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Slesis Cixe
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Zekari Pass
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Tchule Monastery
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Essential places to dine
ოქროს ხანა
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Natenadze Wine Restaurant
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Restaurant Rabati
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Light house
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Restaurant Mimino
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New Bar
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Restaurant Kessane
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Restaurant Millennium Rabati
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Old Bar-Restaurant Akhaltsikhe
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Alaverdi Restaurant - ალავერდი რესტორანი
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მალე. სწრაფი კვება
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Kebab and Bakery
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მალე • Male
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Khibli ხიბლი
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Dzveli Duqani
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
მესხური ბრენდი
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Hotel RABATH
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Souvenir shop Georgian doll
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არტ სპექტრი
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საყოფაცხოვრებო ნივთები
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Custom Jeweler Rings Earings Necklaces Gold and Silver
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მეორადი
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Daily
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ყველის კუთხე • Cheese Corner
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ერთობა
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Deko
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ფეხსაცმელების მაღაზია ,,ლევანტო'' ახალციხეში.
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Bread shop
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სპარი
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ნათიას ბუტიკი (Avon Natia)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrassa Launge bar
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HOTEL JULIA Akhaltsikhe
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Hotel Rabati
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ძველი პაბი
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Sport Bar
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Experience the thrill of live sports and vibrant nightlife at the Sport Bar in Akhaltsikhe, where fun meets flavor.
Beer Bar
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Akhaltsikhe's Beer Bar, where local brews and lively ambiance await every traveler.
Leki
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Discover the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine at Leki, a top-rated restaurant where tradition meets taste.
კაფე ბარი კახისი
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Experience the warmth and hospitality of Café Bar Kahisi in Dabadzveli, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Fresh Juices - Georgian traditional alcohol (Wine, Chacha, Cognac)
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Discover the rich heritage of Georgian spirits at Fresh Juices, where wine, chacha, and cognac come together in a delightful tasting experience.
ლაშა ყანდორელაშვილის სახელობის სალოთაო
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WOODS STOP
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Dimitri’s Wine Cellar and Restaurant
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Omo's Bar
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მოსვი
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ლუდის სახლი
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tbilisi
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Terrace Imeri
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Discover the cozy charm of Terrace Imeri in Kutaisi, a perfect lounge for relaxation and local flavors.
Esco Bar Kutaisi
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Bude
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ლაშას პადვალი
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kutaisi at ლაშას პადვალი, where music, dance, and culture collide for an unforgettable experience.
Reflector Club
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Reflector Club in Kutaisi, where energetic music and an electric atmosphere converge for unforgettable nights.
Ziari Bar•ზიარი ბარი
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Bavaria
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bavaria in Kutaisi, where exceptional drinks and lively ambiance create unforgettable memories for travelers.
WILD
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Panoramic sky Lounge
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Slot-club PRAGA
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Saba Jikhaishi
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Tibilisi
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Bungalow Changes
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Bungalow Changes, the perfect bar to enjoy local drinks and socialize in beautiful Ambrolauri.
