Narikala Fortress: Tbilisi's Ancient Guardian
Explore Tbilisi's ancient Narikala Fortress: panoramic views, rich history, and the iconic St. Nicholas Church await!
Narikala Fortress, an ancient symbol of Tbilisi's defensive prowess, offers panoramic city views. Dating back to the 4th century, this fortress has been expanded and rebuilt over centuries, witnessing the rise and fall of empires. Today, it stands as a picturesque ruin, inviting visitors to explore its historic walls and enjoy breathtaking vistas.
A brief summary to Narikala
- MRQ5+4R3, Tbilisi, Old Tbilisi, GE
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fortress involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy stunning sunset views over Tbilisi.
- Take the cable car up and walk down to experience the best of both worlds: convenience and scenic exploration.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as it can get hot.
- Women should bring a headscarf to enter St. Nicholas Church, and men should avoid wearing shorts or hats.
Getting There
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Walking
From Meidan Square in Tbilisi's Old Town, follow the signs towards Abanotubani, the sulfur bath district. From there, take Orbiri Street, which leads to a steep staircase offering views of the bathhouses and the Duma Mosque. Alternatively, take the picturesque Betlemi Street Stairs from Lado Asatiani qucha in Sololaki. Both routes are paved but steep in sections, taking approximately 20 minutes to reach the fortress. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Take the Tbilisi Metro to Liberty Square Station. From there, walk approximately 1.2km to the Rike Park cable car station. The cable car provides a scenic ride directly to Narikala Fortress. A one-way trip costs 2.5 GEL, and a MetroMoney card (required for payment) can be purchased for 2 GEL at the station. The cable car operates from 10:00 to 22:00.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Tbilisi. A short taxi ride from the city center to Narikala Fortress typically costs between 2-4 USD and takes approximately 5 minutes. Consider using ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Taxi Maxim for convenient booking. Note that the road leading to the fortress is narrow and can be congested.
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