Imagine this: you’re cycling through narrow cobblestone streets as the aroma of freshly baked shotis puri (Georgian bread) wafts towards you. To your left, an 800-year-old church, to your right, a trendy wine bar in a restored warehouse. That’s Tbilisi—a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern creativity. And the best way to explore this contrasting capital of Georgia? By bike, of course!
- Cycle through the old town: Wind through cobblestone streets filled with balconies adorned with intricate wood carvings
- Ride along the Mtkvari River: Enjoy the cool breeze and stop at cozy terraces
- Visit iconic spots: From Freedom Square to the modern Bridge of Peace
- Taste local delicacies: Stop by the Dezerter Bazaar for fresh herbs and Georgian cheese
Why explore Tbilisi by bike?
Tbilisi is spread over hills on both banks of the Mtkvari River. On foot, you won’t reach everywhere; by car, you miss the charm of the small streets. On a bike, you’re right in between. You set your own pace, stop wherever you want for a glass of chacha (Georgian brandy) or a photo of the colorful houses in the Abanotubani district.
The best part? You discover places where tourists rarely venture. Like that little bakery in Sololaki where locals line up every morning for warm khachapuri. Or the hidden park behind the Dry Bridge, where elderly gentlemen play chess under the plane trees.
Top cycling routes in Tbilisi
The classic route starts at Freedom Square. From there, you cycle through Shardeni Street—the bustling heart of nightlife—to the old town. Notice the wooden balconies that sometimes extend so far they almost touch each other. Through zigzagging streets, you climb to the Narikala Fortress. Yes, it’s a bit of a puff, but the view over the entire city is worth it.
Back down, you follow the river towards Rike Park. This modern green oasis offers a refreshing contrast to the historic city center. The futuristic Bridge of Peace connects old and new—literally and figuratively. In the evening, thousands of LED lights illuminate, a spectacle you can perfectly admire from your bike.
Sights along the route
The Metekhi Church towers high above the river. According to legend, this is where King Vakhtang Gorgasali stood when he decided to found Tbilisi. The story goes that his falcon caught a pheasant that fell into a warm spring—hence the name Tbilisi, derived from ‘tbili’ (warm).
As you cycle further, you’ll pass the sulfur baths of Abanotubani. These dome-shaped baths have been in use since the 5th century. Pushkin and Alexandre Dumas enjoyed a warm bath here—and you can too after your bike ride!
The Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) with its golden dome is visible from afar. This modern cathedral from 2004 is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere—a moment to recover from the bustling city traffic.
Local tips for cycling in Tbilisi
- Start your ride around 9 AM—it’s still cool and the streets are quiet
- Download offline maps on your phone—not everywhere has Wi-Fi
- Bring small denominations of lari for market stalls and street vendors
- Pause around lunchtime at restaurant Shavi Lomi for fresh khinkali (dumplings)
- Wear light clothing—even in October, it can still be 25 degrees
Safety and practical information
Traffic in Tbilisi can be chaotic, especially around major intersections. Georgian drivers are generally courteous to cyclists, but stay alert. The city has few bike lanes, so you’ll share the road with cars and the famous yellow marshrutkas (minibuses).
Ensure you have a sturdy lock—bike theft does occur, especially in busy districts. At restaurants and museums, you’ll often find guarded bike parking. A helmet isn’t mandatory but is advisable, especially if you’re heading up the hills. Our bike tours in Tbilisi include a helmet and lock.
Bike tours and rental options
At Baja Bikes, our local guides know Tbilisi like the back of their hand. They’ll take you to places you’d never find on your own—like that courtyard where a 90-year-old woman still makes churchkhela (walnuts on a string dipped in grape juice) according to her grandmother’s recipe.
Our tours last about 3 hours and cost €39 per person. We ride in small groups of up to 12 people to keep it personal. Prefer some extra support on the climbs? E-bikes are available for an additional €15. Book your adventure and discover why Lonely Planet has named Tbilisi one of Europe’s most exciting cities.
Conclusion: experience Tbilisi like a local
After a day of cycling through Tbilisi, you’ll understand why locals are so proud of their city. You’ve not only seen the major attractions but also the hidden courtyards, the cozy wine bars, and the places where real life unfolds. With sore calves but a big smile, you return to your hotel.
Ready for your own Tbilisi adventure? Reserve your bike tour now and discover the sights of Tbilisi like only the locals can. See you soon in the streets of this remarkable city!
Frequently asked questions
How long does a bike tour in Tbilisi last?
Our standard bike tour lasts 3 hours, including various stops at attractions and a short break for refreshments. We also have an extended 5-hour tour for those who want to see it all.
How much does a bike tour in Tbilisi cost?
A bike tour costs €39 per person. This includes a bike, helmet, lock, and an experienced local guide. Children up to 12 years receive a 25% discount. E-bikes are available for an additional €15.
Are e-bikes available?
Yes, we have modern e-bikes for those who want some extra help with Tbilisi’s hills. They cost an additional €15 on top of the tour price. Be sure to reserve them in advance, as they are popular!
Do I need a helmet while cycling?
A helmet is not legally required in Georgia, but we highly recommend it. All our tours include a comfortable helmet. Safety comes first, especially in busy city traffic.
What should I bring on the bike tour?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes. Bring a bottle of water (you can refill along the way), sunscreen, sunglasses, and some small change for souvenirs or ice cream. A camera or phone for photos is, of course, a must!