Avlabari: The Heartbeat of Tbilisi's Heritage and Modernity

Explore Avlabari: Tbilisi’s historical gem, where ancient landmarks meet modern arts and culinary delights, offering an authentic Georgian experience.

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Avlabari

Avlabari is a vibrant and historic neighbourhood nestled on the left bank of the Kura River in Tbilisi, Georgia. Known for its rich history and cultural significance, this area offers tourists a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary attractions. One of the main draws of Avlabari is its historical landmarks. The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, commonly known as Sameba, stands as a monumental symbol of the Georgian Orthodox Church and offers breathtaking views of the city. Nearby, the Metekhi Church and its clifftop location provide a scenic backdrop for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Besides its historical allure, Avlabari is also home to a burgeoning arts scene. The neighbourhood is dotted with art galleries, theatres, and cultural centers that showcase both traditional Georgian art and modern interpretations. The local markets and eateries offer a taste of authentic Georgian cuisine, making it a haven for food lovers. Walking through Avlabari, you'll find narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming houses, many of which date back several centuries. The area's multicultural vibe is evident in its diverse architecture and the warm hospitality of its residents. Whether you're exploring its historical sites or enjoying its modern amenities, Avlabari promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Avlabari

Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Metekhi Church, especially at sunset.
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and taste traditional Georgian snacks.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the rich history and cultural significance of Avlabari.

File:Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi.jpg - Wikipedia

Fichier:Tbilisi The Metekhi Church of Assumption IMG 8842 1920.jpg — Wikipédia

File:Tbilisi - Avlabari Square.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Tbilisi Presidential Palace IMG 8916 1920.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Rike park, Bicycle-related signs and Music Theater and Exhibition Center.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Tbilisi Peace Bridge and Rike Park.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Narikala Fortress and the St. Nicholas church on the hill across the river (29753590706).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

Explore the breathtaking Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, a stunning masterpiece of Georgian architecture and a symbol of spiritual heritage.

Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali

Discover the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali in Tbilisi, a stunning monument celebrating Georgia's rich history and offering breathtaking views of the city.

Betlemi Street Stairs

Explore Tbilisi's Betlemi Street Stairs for breathtaking views, rich culture, and a unique travel experience in Georgia's capital city.

Avlabari

Discover Avlabari, Tbilisi's enchanting neighborhood offering stunning views, rich history, and vibrant local culture in the heart of Georgia.

Tbilisi Old Town Wall Ruins

Explore Tbilisi's Old Town Wall Ruins, where history and stunning city views converge in the heart of Georgia's vibrant capital.

Baratashvili Bridge Bronze Statues

Discover the beauty and history of Tbilisi at the Baratashvili Bridge Bronze Statues, where art meets stunning river views.

King Parnavazi Monument

Explore King Parnavazi Monument in Old Tbilisi, a stunning sculpture celebrating Georgian heritage amidst the city's charming atmosphere.

Symbolic monument of Tbilisi-city თბილის-ქალაქის სიმბოლური ძეგლი

Explore Tbilisi's Symbolic Monument, where history and modernity converge in a stunning visual display reflecting Georgia's vibrant culture.

Jorjoliani and Kvantaliani Monument

Explore the Jorjoliani and Kvantaliani Monument in Tbilisi, a stunning historical landmark that embodies Georgia's rich heritage and cultural pride.

მონუმენტები/Monuments

Explore Tbilisi's Monuments - a breathtaking blend of art and history in the heart of Georgia's vibrant capital.

Tbilisi City Wall

Discover the enchanting Tbilisi City Wall, a historical marvel that offers stunning views and a journey through the rich heritage of Georgia's capital.

Special Illustration

Explore the captivating Special Illustration in Tbilisi, a historical landmark showcasing the artistic heritage of Georgia in an enchanting setting.

Unmissable attractions to see

მთაწმინდის პარკი -Mtatsminda Park

Experience the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility at Mtatsminda Park, Tbilisi's premier destination for fun and relaxation.

Bridge of Peace

Discover Tbilisi's Bridge of Peace, a stunning architectural gem that beautifully connects the city's rich history with its modern vibrancy.

Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi

Explore the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, an architectural marvel blending tradition and modernity in the heart of Georgia's capital.

National Botanical Garden

Discover the tranquility of Tbilisi's National Botanical Garden, a lush retreat featuring diverse plant species and stunning landscapes in the heart of the city.

Georgian National Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Georgia at the Georgian National Museum in Tbilisi, where history and artistry intertwine.

Air Balloon Tbilisi

Experience breathtaking views of Tbilisi from above with Air Balloon Tbilisi, a unique adventure above Georgia's stunning capital.

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Usakhelouri

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine and exquisite local wines at Restaurant Usakhelouri in Tbilisi's historic Old Town.

Khinkali Pub

Discover the flavors of Georgia at Khinkali Pub in Old Tbilisi – home to exquisite khinkali dumplings and a lively bar atmosphere.

Restaurant Hide

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine and exquisite local wines at Restaurant Hide in Old Tbilisi.

Khinkali House

Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Khinkali House, famous for its mouthwatering dumplings and warm hospitality in Tbilisi.

ode ოდე

Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Café Ode in Old Tbilisi – where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

Restaurant Pasanauri On Baratashvili Str

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Restaurant Pasanauri in Tbilisi – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Organique Josper

Experience the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine at Organique Josper in Old Tbilisi – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Sakhli # 11

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Sakhli #11 in Old Tbilisi – where every dish tells a story.

Baoma

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Baoma, nestled in the charming streets of Old Tbilisi—where tradition meets flavor.

Restaurant Margalita

Discover authentic Georgian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at Restaurant Margalita in Old Tbilisi.

Old metekhi

Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Old Metekhi while enjoying breathtaking views of Tbilisi's historic skyline.

BalconY no7

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at BalconY no7 in Tbilisi, where traditional flavors meet stunning city views.

Elita Shawarma

Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Elita Shawarma in Tbilisi's vibrant Avlabari Square – a must-visit for every food lover.

Old Town

Discover Old Town Tbilisi: A Historic Gem with Culinary Delights and Stunning Architecture.

Gamarjoba

Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Gamarjoba in Tbilisi - where every meal tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Galleria Tbilisi

Experience shopping and dining like never before at Galleria Tbilisi, a vibrant hub in the heart of Georgia's capital.

Dezerter Vintage

Discover unique vintage clothing at Dezerter Vintage in Tbilisi, where every piece tells a story and expresses individuality.

Friday Night • პარასკევი ღამე

Explore the mystical treasures of Friday Night in Tbilisi, a unique gift shop offering aromatherapy, jewelry, and spiritual supplies.

Vintylator Vintage Shop

Explore Vintylator Vintage Shop in Tbilisi for an eclectic collection of unique vintage clothing and accessories that tell stories of the past.

Babale

Explore Babale, Tbilisi's treasure trove of authentic Georgian souvenirs, where every piece tells a story of culture and craftsmanship.

Flying Painter Store

Explore the artistic essence of Tbilisi at the Flying Painter Store, offering unique handmade gifts and fashion accessories that celebrate Georgian culture.

Vintylator Vintage shop

Discover a treasure trove of vintage fashion at Vintylator Vintage Shop in Tbilisi, where every piece has a story to tell.

vintage shop shantay

Discover unique vintage clothing and accessories at Shantay Vintage Shop in Tbilisi's historic Dzveli Tbilisi district.

Underground Shop N23

Explore the best of Georgian craftsmanship at Underground Shop N23, a hidden gem for unique gifts and souvenirs in Tbilisi.

Naftalin Vintage Boutique

Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Naftalin Boutique in Tbilisi, where each piece is a story waiting to be worn.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Warszawa

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tbilisi at Warszawa, where locals and tourists mingle over great drinks and lively entertainment.

DADI wine bar and shop

Experience the authentic taste of Georgia at DADI Wine Bar and Shop, where tradition meets a modern wine experience in Tbilisi.

Sakhelosno BAR

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tbilisi at Sakhelosno BAR, where lively music meets affordable drinks in a stunning riverside location.

Barbar'a Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tbilisi at Barbar'a Bar, where unique cocktails meet a cozy gastropub atmosphere.

L.P.M. Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere and delightful cocktails at L.P.M. Bar, a Latin-inspired gem in the heart of Tbilisi's nightlife.

Old Generation

Experience the heart of Georgian culture at Old Generation, where fine wines, traditional drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere await in Tbilisi.

Rewine

Experience the finest Georgian wines at Rewine, a charming wine bar in Tbilisi with stunning views and a cozy atmosphere.

Flags Wine Bar

Experience the best of Georgian wine culture at Flags Wine Bar in Tbilisi, where cozy ambiance meets exquisite selections.

Kviti (Wine Bar&Shop)

Discover the essence of Georgian wine culture at Kviti, a delightful wine bar in Tbilisi's historic Dzveli Tbilisi district.

Anima Bar

Experience the vibrant ambiance and delicious Georgian cuisine at Anima Bar, a must-visit pub in Tbilisi's historic district.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Avlabari

Discover Avlabari with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloგამარჯობა
  [gamardjoba]
- Goodbyeნახვამდი
  [nakhvamdi]
- Yesდიახ
  [diakh]
- Noარა
  [ara]
- Please/You're welcomeგთხოვთ
  [gtkhovt]
- Thank youმადლობა
  [madloba]
- Excuse me/Sorryბალია
  [baliya]
- How are you?როგორ ხარ?
  [rogor khar?]
- Fine. And you?კარგად. შენ?
  [kargad. shen?]
- Do you speak English?იცი ინგლისურს?
  [itsi inglisurs?]
- I don't understandარ ვიცი
  [ar vitsi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseგთხოვ მენიუს ნახოთ, გთხოვთ
  [gtkhov menuis nakhot, gthovt]
- I don't eat meatარ ვჭამ ხორის
  [ar vcham khoris]
- Cheers!გაგრილება!
  [gagrileba]
- I would like to pay, pleaseგთხოვ გადახდოთ, გთხოვთ
  [gtkhov gadakdot, gthovt]
- Help!დახმარება!
  [dakhmareba]
- Go away!წვდომა!
  [tsvdoma]
- Call the Police!დაუჯავშნეთ პოლიცია!
  [daudjavsnet politsia]
- Call a doctor!დაუჯავშნეთ ექიმი!
  [daudjavsnet ekimi]
- I'm lostდავაკარგებული ვარ
  [davakaragebuli var]
- I'm illმე ვავადმყოფი ვარ
  [me vavadmopfi var]
- I'd like to buy...გთხოვ ყიდვა...
  [gtkhov qidva]
- I'm just lookingშემექმნება
  [shemekhmneba]
- How much is it?რამდენია?
  [ramdenia?]
- That's too expensiveეს ძალიან ღირსადგენია
  [es dzalian girsadgenia]
- Can you lower the price?შეგიძლია ფასი დაბალოთ?
  [shegidlia fasi dabalot?]
- What time is it?რა დროა?
  [ra droa?]
- It's one o'clockერთი საათია
  [erti saatia]
- Half past (10)ათის ნახუჯი
  [atis nakhuzhi]
- Morningდილი
  [dili]
- Afternoonსაღამო
  [sagamo]
- Eveningსაღამო
  [sagamo]
- Yesterdayგუშინ
  [gushin]
- Todayდღეს
  [dges]
- Tomorrowხვალ
  [khval]
- 1ერთი
  [erti]
- 2ორი
  [ori]
- 3სამი
  [sami]
- 4ოთხი
  [otkhi]
- 5ხუთი
  [khuti]
- 6ექვსი
  [ekvsi]
- 7შვიდი
  [shvidi]
- 8რვა
  [rva]
- 9ცხრა
  [tskhra]
- 10ათი
  [ati]
- Where's a/the...?სადაა...
  [sad'aa]
- What's the address?რა მისამართია?
  [ra mismartia?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?შეგიჩნდეთ ჩემს გზაზე?
  [shegidnet chems g'azze?]
- When's the next (bus)?როდის მესამე (ავტობუსი)?
  [rodiss mesame (avtobusi)?]
- A ticket (to ....)ბილეთი (მიმდინარე ...)
  [bileti (mimdinarie ...)]

History of Avlabari

Avlabari's history can be traced back to the early settlements of Tbilisi, which was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang I Gorgasali. The location of Avlabari, by the banks of the Kura River, made it a strategic point for trade and cultural exchange. The area flourished due to its proximity to important trade routes connecting Europe and Asia.
Avlabari has long been recognized for its religious sites, particularly the Sioni Cathedral, which dates back to the 6th century. The cathedral has been a pivotal site for the Georgian Orthodox Church and has undergone numerous reconstructions, reflecting the region's tumultuous history over the centuries. The area around the cathedral served as a spiritual hub for the local population.
During the 16th to 18th centuries, Avlabari came under Ottoman rule, which significantly influenced the local architecture and culture. The period saw the introduction of various architectural styles, which can still be seen in the buildings today. The neighborhood became a melting pot of Georgian and Ottoman cultures, evident in local cuisine, customs, and community life.
In the 19th century, Avlabari underwent modernization as part of Tbilisi's urban development. The construction of new buildings, roads, and infrastructure transformed the neighborhood, making it more accessible and connected to the rest of the city. This period also marked the rise of a diverse population, as merchants and craftsmen settled in the area.
Following Georgia's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Avlabari has experienced a cultural renaissance. The restoration of historical sites and the revitalization of traditional crafts and customs have drawn both locals and tourists to the neighborhood. Avlabari is now known for its vibrant arts scene, local markets, and cultural festivals that celebrate Georgian heritage.

Avlabari Essentials

Avlabari is well-connected to the rest of Tbilisi. From Tbilisi International Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to Avlabari, which is approximately 15 kilometers away and takes about 30 minutes by car. If you are coming from the city center, the Metro is a convenient option; take Line 1 to Avlabari station. Alternatively, several bus lines run through the area, offering access from other neighborhoods.
Avlabari is a compact neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. The Metro system is efficient, with the Avlabari station providing quick access to other parts of Tbilisi. Local buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) also serve the area, and taxis are readily available. For those wanting to cycle, bike rental services are available, allowing you to navigate through Avlabari and beyond comfortably.
Avlabari is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded spaces. Petty theft can occur, particularly near tourist attractions. While there are no specific high-crime areas in Avlabari, it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in markets and busy streets.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The closest hospital to Avlabari is the Tbilisi Central Hospital. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies can be found throughout the area for minor health needs, and many English-speaking doctors are available in the city.
Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites in Avlabari. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. Religion: Do respect local customs; always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Gamarjoba' (hello). Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and cuisine, and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse invitations to share in meals, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Avlabari like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Avlabari Bazaar, where you can find fresh produce and traditional Georgian foods. Engage with locals, who are often welcoming and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss exploring the historic Metekhi Church and the scenic views from the nearby Narikala Fortress. Try to attend local festivals or events to immerse yourself in the vibrant community life of Avlabari.

Avlabari: The Heartbeat of Tbilisi's Heritage and Modernity

Local tips in Avlabari