Every season in Georgia has its perks – think of the mountains in winter, the coast in summer or crispy walks in national parks in fall. So what about spring? In the early warm months of the year, when the weather is just perfect for a light jacket, Tbilisi is the place to go. We put together a list of things to do to ensure you are getting the most of your springtime getaway in Georgia’s capital.
See the Botanical Garden in Bloom
Photo Source: itinari.com
The National Botanical Garden of Georgia is a perfect spot for rest and relaxation – and it blooms to its full glory in spring! Situated above the old town, the area is secluded enough to make you feel like you’re spending the day away from the city hustle.
The entrance fee is around 1.5$ for a single ticket and 2.25$ for a family package. The garden is vast and contains more
than 4000 plants from all over the world, so make sure to grab yourself a map at the entrance and check what you’re interested in. The waterfall and the arboretum are must-see spots, but we also suggest checking out the Japanese garden and bamboo rows.
Shop for Antiques on the Dry Bridge
Photo Source: tripmydream.com
The Dry Bridge Market – situated just 10 minutes away from metro Liberty Square, above a dried up stream of the river Mtkvari – is arguably the most iconic flea market of Tbilisi. You can find anything you need and more there: antiques, jewelry, backgammon sets, Soviet memorabilia, old cameras, vinyls and any knick knacks you can and can’t imagine. Grab cash with you, don’t hesitate to talk to vendors and be prepared to snag some unique bargains on a warm spring day of thrifting.
Explore Tbilisi’s Many Parks
Photo Source: skate.ge
After seeing Niko Pirosmani’s art at the National Gallery, you can linger in the park right outside of it – the 9th of April park, known by locals by its former name Alexandre’s park. This green space in the heart of downtown was the first public park in Tbilisi. It’s a perfect place for a reading session on a sunny Sunday, or some people watching – many locals tend to go there in small groups on weekends, sip beer, joke around and unwind.
If you own a skateboard head towards Dedaena Park and join the cool kids – they flock to the skate park and show off new moves as soon as it warms up. If you stay until later hours, you can also hit Dedaena Bar, which is located inside the park and usually hosts Georgian DJs and bands on weekend nights.
For a more picnicky experience, we suggest visiting Mziuri Park in Vake. It is big enough for a stroll or an exercise in nature. In spring people go there with picnic blankets and play frisbee or badminton. If you don’t want to sit on the ground, grab yourself a table at Mziuri Cafe. (They observe Meat Free Mondays!) or plan ahead and catch a movie screening outdoors.
Go to a Waterfront
Photo Source: phototbilisi.com
If your element’s water, you will enjoy a stroll around Tbilisi’s two popular lakes. One of them is called Turtle Lake – but be warned, there are no turtles there – and the other is Lisi Lake.
Photo Source: georgiantravelguide.com
Both locations are local favorites for a quick getaway outdoors. You can rent a water bicycle or just sit around the parks’ many benches and cafes. Don’t be surprised to see people exercising – both Turtle and Lisi lakes are popular running and exercise spots for Tbilisians.
Celebrate Easter like a local
Orthodox Easter falls on May 5 in 2024. That means that by then, Tbilisi’s streets will be filled with the smell of paska, or traditional Easter pastries. Make sure to try different varieties of paska and pair it with boiled eggs dyed in red. For more Easter-related traditions and activities, see our complete guide to Easter in Georgia.
Go Wine-Tasting at The New Wine Festival
Photo Source: Georgian Journal
Tbilisi Wine Festival is an annual tradition celebrated at Mtatsminda Park on the second Saturday of May – another reason to spend Easter weekend in Tbilisi! As indicated by the name, it is about all things wine: local vendors bring out their best bottles and showcase their craft and creativity. They also sell home-brewed beer and chacha, an absinthe-like drink you should try at least once in Georgia. And vendors usually offer free wine-tasting for one drink per stand – so bring out your sommelier self, mingle and remember to consume alcohol responsibly.
Drink more wine at the Saamuri Natural Wines Salon
2024 will be the second time for the Saamuri Natural Wines Salon – a gathering of sommeliers and wine-lovers at Fabrika Tbilisi. You will have a chance to taste wine made of strictly organic grapes, as well as other alcoholic beverages that are typical for Georgia. The salon will take place on May 11. Keep in mind that from 10 am to noon the event will host professionals in the wine industry. General admission will run from noon to 7 pm.
Walk, walk and walk
Spring is the best season for capturing the vibe of Tbilisi – the weather allows for long walks through the city’s narrow, winding streets and picturesque backyards. We suggest you bring your camera on those walks, because you are likely to witness some truly Georgian experiences. Our favorites include backgammon or chess matches on street corners and park benches; colorful laundry hanging on lines outside windows; bunches of fresh tarragon appearing on street markets and of course, Tbilisi’s many cats and dogs that are well-respected members of the community and will definitely accompany you on many walks through the city.
