Family-Friendly Adventures in Tbilisi, Georgia!

Tbilisi Aerial Tramway

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Discovering Tbilisi from the Skies with the Tbilisi Aerial Tramway

Morning: Start with a Scenic Ride

Kick off your adventure at the conveniently located lower station of the Tbilisi Aerial Tramway, near the bustling Rike Park. Families can easily reach this spot via a short walk from Avlabari Metro Station or by using local bus services. Purchase your tickets at the station (affordable rates with discounts for children) and get ready for an exhilarating ride. As you ascend, enjoy the panoramic views of Old Tbilana, the Kura River, and the city"s modern architecture. The tramway, opened in 2012, offers a safe and smooth ride, perfect for all ages.

Midday: Explore Narikala Fortress

Disembark at the top station, where the majestic Narikala Fortress awaits. This ancient fortress provides not only a glimpse into Tbilisi’s long history but also offers breathtaking views of the capital. Take a leisurely walk around the fortress walls, which date back to the 4th century. It"s a perfect spot for family photos!

Lunch Break: Botanical Garden Café

A short walk from Narikala Fortress leads you to the entrance of the Tbilisi Botanical Garden. Explore its lush greenery and diverse plant collection. Stop for a relaxed lunch at the garden’s café, where you can enjoy local Georgian delicacies amidst nature.

Afternoon: Waterfall and Zip Line Adventure

Post-lunch, head deeper into the botanical gardens to discover the Tbilisi Waterfall. Just a few minutes from the city noise, it’s like stepping into a natural paradise. For the adventurous, the garden offers a thrilling zip line experience that flies over the waterfall, promising fun and excitement for the whole family.

Evening: Return via Tramway

Conclude your day with a tranquil tramway ride back to Rike Park. As the city lights begin to twinkle, the aerial view offers a magical perspective of Tbilani, perfect for reflecting on a day well spent exploring one of Georgia’s treasures.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tbilisi Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Why Visit?

Morning:

Start your day at Freedom Square, the heart of Tbilisi, easily accessible by metro (Freedom Square Station). From here, stroll along the charming Rustaveli Avenue to reach the picturesque Old Town. The area is a delightful maze of narrow streets where every turn reveals centuries-old churches, wooden balconies, and hidden courtyards.

First, explore the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century. Located just a short walk from Freedom Square, this basilica is a peaceful place to appreciate ancient Georgian architecture.

Next, head to the Clock Tower, a whimsical piece adjacent to the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre. This enchanting tower puts on a small puppet show every hour, much to the delight of children.

Midday

For lunch, try some local Georgian cuisine like khachapuri or khinkali at a nearby cafe. Then, continue to the Peace Bridge, a stunning glass-and-steel structure over the Mtkvari River, offering great views and a modern contrast to the old town.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, take the cable car from Rike Park to the Narikala Fortress. The fortress provides panoramic views of the city and the river, perfect for family photos. Inside, explore the ruins and learn about Tbilisi’s defense history.

Just downhill, visit the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall and the Botanical Garden for a refreshing walk amidst lush greenery and cascading waters, a surprising find in the middle of a busy city.

Evening

Conclude your day at the Sulfur Baths area, where you can relax in naturally warm waters—a traditional Tbilasteli experience. The baths are famous for their therapeutic properties and unique Persian-inspired architecture.

Finish off with a leisurely dinner at one of the traditional Georgian restaurants in the Old Town, enjoying live local music and dances that round off the perfect family day in Tbilisi Old Town.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mtatsminda Park

Why Visit?

Mtatsminda Park Family Adventure Itinerary

Morning: Arrival and Funicular Ride

Start your day early by catching the funicular from Chonquadze Street, just above Rustaveli Avenue. This scenic ride up to the park not only saves you energy but also offers a breathtaking view of Tbilisi sprawling below. The funicular operates every 15 minutes, making it a convenient option. Once at the top, grab a map from the entrance (or download one online) to help navigate through the park"s attractions.

Mid-Morning: Explore and Play

First, head to the Bombora Park amusement area, especially designed for younger children. Enjoy rides like the mini roller coaster and Ferris wheel. Don"t miss the "Magic House" which seems to defy the laws of physics – a hit among curious kids and adults alike!

Lunch: Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic or buy snacks from local vendors and enjoy a family lunch on the grass overlooking the city. The park’s higher elevation provides a cooler atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing break.

Afternoon: Cultural Stops and Leisure Walks

Post lunch, explore the park’s less bustling attractions. Visit the TV Broadcasting Tower, one of Tbilissi"s tallest structures, and learn about its history and role in Georgian telecommunications. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained paths leading to various monuments and the Pantheon, where some of Georgia’s most revered artists and leaders are buried.

Late Afternoon: Enjoy the Rides

As the day cools down, head back to the amusement sections. Older kids and adults might enjoy more thrilling rides like the roller coaster or the water slides.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

Conclude your day by watching the sunset from the park’s western edge, offering a stunning canvas of colors over the city. Dine at Funicular Restaurant Complex, famous for traditional Georgian dishes, to complete your Mtatsminda Park experience.

Remember, the park is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and keep hydrated. Enjoy your family adventure at Mtatsminda Park!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral (Tsminda Sameba)

Why Visit?

Embark on a wonderful family adventure in Tbilisi with a visit to the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, commonly known as Sameba. It"s one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world and a gem of modern religious architecture.

Morning: Start at Holy Trinity Cathedral

Arrive early to enjoy the serene morning atmosphere. Located on Elia Hill, the cathedral is easily accessible by taxi or bus (routes 90, 116, 31, 140 stop nearby). If you’re up for a stroll, it"s a pleasant walk from Liberty Square, approximately 20 minutes uphill. Explore the grandeur of the cathedral, which towers over Tbilisi with its golden dome visible from various points in the city. Inside, marvel at the intricate frescoes and the modern yet traditional design. The complex also includes a monastery, a theological seminary, and gardens, perfect for a peaceful family walk.

Interesting Fact: Sameba"s foundation contains rocks from the Holy Land, integrating spiritual symbolism into its very structure.

Lunch Break: Local Cuisine near the Cathedral

For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant serving traditional Georgian dishes such as khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread) and khinkali (dumplings), both favorites among children and adults alike.

Afternoon: Rike Park and Cable Car Ride to Narikala Fortress

Post-lunch, take a short taxi ride or a 15-minute walk to Rike Park, a modern recreational area perfect for families. Enjoy the landscaped gardens and playgrounds. From here, catch the cable car up to the ancient Narikala Fortress. The ride offers stunning views of the city, and the fortress presents a historical exploration spot, with origins dating back to the 4th century.

Evening: Stroll along Shardeni Street

Finish your day with a leisurely walk down Shardeni Street in the Old Town. This pedestrian-friendly area is lined with quaint cafes, street artists, and souvenir shops — ideal for a relaxing evening and a little shopping.

This itinerary promises a day filled with culture, history, and fun, tailored specifically to delight each family member!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Tbilisi Funicular

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Day at Tbilish Funicular

Morning

Start your adventure at the Tbilisi Funicular Lower Station, easily accessible via taxi or a short walk from Rustaveli Avenue, the heart of Tbilisi’s cultural district. This century-old cable railway is not just a mode of transport but a journey to one of the most scenic vistas overlooking Tbilisi. Board the funicular for a memorable ride that whisks you up the steep slope of Mtatsminda Mountain. The kids will love watching the city shrink below as they ascend.

Midday

Arrive at Funicular Complex Restaurant at the top, which includes a range of dining options from fast food to fine dining, perfect for a family lunch with a view. Don’t miss trying some Georgian traditional dishes like "Khachapuri" (cheese-stuffed bread) which is a hit among all ages.

Afternoon

Post lunch, step out to explore Mtatsminda Park, an amusement park that promises fun activities and rides suitable for all age groups. Highlights include a Ferris wheel at the edge of the mountain offering panoramic views of Tbilisi, bumper cars, and a ghost house. The park often hosts puppet shows and magic performances, making it a magical experience for the little ones.

Interesting Fact

The Tbilisi Funicular was opened in 1905 and is among the oldest funiculars in the world. It was built to provide a better link to the Mtatsminda Pantheon, a necropolis that houses the graves of famous writers, artists, and national heroes of Georgia.

Late Afternoon

As the day winds down, grab some snacks from the park kiosks and head back down on the funicular. The ride down during sunset offers a stunning sight as the city lights begin to twinkle.

A day spent at Tbilisi Funicular and Mtatsminda Park not only offers thrilling rides and great food but also connects you with the rich history and culture of Georgia, all while making family memories to last a lifetime.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.