'Underrated' capital city 'where wine was invented' makes perfect summer holiday
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A seasoned traveller is sharing her insider knowledge about a hidden gem of a city that is a must-visit destination for those seeking an unconventional holiday. With summer just around the corner, many of us are daydreaming about our next getaway, but instead of flocking to popular resorts in Spain or Turkey, consider a lesser-known city that boasts average highs of 34C during the summer months.
Travel enthusiast Dasha Kofman took to TikTok to share her experiences of her recent trip to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia in the Caucasus region. Georgia is believed to be the birthplace of wine, dating back to 5000BC.
"I just visited one of the most underrated capital cities," Dasha said in her video. "It is Tbilisi, Georgia, and in my research, it was very hard to find TikTok videos on what to do there, so here's my version of it."
Dasha enthusiastically recommended the top activities in the historic metropolis, assuring there's plenty on offer for every type of traveller.
Drybridge market
Topping her list was the must-visit Drybridge market.
"It is the flea market of all flea markets. First of all, these watch rings are under $5 (£3.74). They had the most beautiful jewellery finds here. They also have tons of antique and vintage posters, clocks, cameras.
"Georgia has literally experienced every type of culture due to trade or being conquered, and this flea market shows you that entire history from medieval times to Soviet."
Visitors can also find a park beneath the market where local artists display and sell their creations.
Stroll along the Kura river
"Number two is strolling along the water," she advised.
"I think any romantic city needs its little river running through it, and it's so romantic to just walk along the water or take a boat, or just sit and admire as the water flows."
Dasha encouraged visitors not to miss out on this scenic walk, which leads to the third highlight of her visit.
Walk across the Bridge of Peace to cable cars
"Walk along until you get to number three, which is to stroll across the Bridge of Peace," Dasha suggested. "It's decidedly more modern, it doesn't quite blend into the Old Town, but it conveys the message that Georgians simply desire peace."
The bridge, spanning 150 metres over the Kura River, was commissioned by Tbilisi City Hall to create a contemporary design feature linking Old Tbilisi with the newer central parts of the city. It was inaugurated in 2010.
Dasha encourages visitors to cross the bridge to reach the cable cars that will transport you up one of the mountains for 'amazing' views of the city and the historic Mother of Georgia, believed to protect the country from invaders.
Unwind in bath houses
"The next activity will be a moment of relaxation," Dasha said.
"Tbilisi actually translates to warm waters, and this name is due to the sulphuric waters found in the city that enable the operation of these bath houses. They were very popular during the Silk Road era, where people would come to unwind after trading."
The historic Tbilisi sulfur baths have been a staple of the Georgian capital since the fifth century, offering both therapeutic and social benefits that cement them as an intrinsic part of local culture and tradition.
Explore Old Town and Meidan Bazaar
Another must-see spot is the Old Town, with Dasha remarking: "Next on the list is exploring the Old Town. From the clock tower to the stunning architecture to the Jewish quarter, and more and more, there is so much to explore."
She further suggested taking a guided tour of the area then wandering through the ancient streets on your own, as surprises are around every corner.
Speaking of the historic significance, Dasha adds: "On the Old Town they actually have the meeting place back when the Silk Road was extremely active. It's Meidan Bazaar."
She went on to explain: "Today, it's a tourist shop, but back in the day it's where all the traders would meet and sell everything that they've brought from all over the east. So it's definitely a cool place to check out."
Go shopping
For shoppers, Dasha urges a visit to her two preferred spots: Vera, and Shota Rustaveli Avenue.
She describes Vera as: "[Vera] is the more hipster, young, trendy neighborhood. They have tons of really cool shops. [..] But honestly you can spend a couple of hours just cafe and shop hopping, you'll definitely find things."
"And then in contrast to the more independent shops is to walk down Shota Rustaveli Avenue," she continued. "This is the main avenue of the city with beautiful architecture, so many museums, big retail shops, chain restaurants, but you can also find some amazing local hidden gems, restaurants and cafes, as well."
Go wine tasting
"And then last but not least, as Georgia is the place where wine was created, you have to go on a wine tour," Dasha said. "Whether that's self-guided or with a tour group, I made a video on all my favourite wine bars so you can do it on your own."
"But honestly, pop into any wine shop, you'll probably get a free taste," she said.
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