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Latest update: 8 January 2025
Tbilisi has endless accommodation options. From swanky hotels to simple hostels and cozy apartments, this city has it all. While I haven’t tested every single place (though wouldn’t that be a dream job?), I’ve stayed at quite a few spots. So, let me share my honest reviews!
Where to stay in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi is huge, so choosing where to stay can be a bit overwhelming. Of course, it depends on what you’re looking for. Since this was my first time in Tbilisi, and I wanted to see the main attractions while being within walking distance of nice restaurants, I narrowed it down to two areas.:
- Old Town: right in the center, close to all the attractions
- Chugureti: Tbilisi’s up-and-coming district with serious Berlin vibes
Both are vibrant options!
The Kura River runs through Tbilisi – if you’re looking at the map, Old Town is on the left bank, and Chugureti is on the right. Above Old Town, you’ll find the Rustaveli area, home to many museums.
Fabrika Hostel & Suites (Chugureti)
Fabrika Hostel & Suites is a massive hostel offering both shared and private rooms. During Soviet times, this building was a sewing factory – though interestingly, my room has a photo of women working on TVs (talk about a plot twist!). The hostel spans five floors with a huge common area on the ground floor. While it looks super cool, I found socializing challenging as a solo traveler. This is mainly because of how the common area is set up – lots of big couches and seating arrangements that don’t really encourage mingling. I opted for a private room, which, in hindsight, might not have been the best choice for meeting people.
My private room, though, was absolutely spot-on. The bed was super comfy, and while the bathroom was snug, the shower pressure was fantastic. I loved the industrial design touches throughout. Here’s a pro tip that might sound counterintuitive: if you’re a light sleeper, request a room facing the street. Why? Because the courtyard, while absolutely gorgeous with its bars and restaurants, can get pretty lively late into the night. It’s an awesome spot for food and drinks, but maybe not so great if you’re planning on early nights.
Fabrika supposedly organizes various activities for guests, like yoga and movie nights. But these might have been hibernating since I visited in winter – I didn’t spot any during my stay. Things may likely pick up in summer when the rooftop terrace opens.
Verdict: A great spot with tons of potential, especially if you’re traveling with someone. Solo travelers looking to socialize might want to opt for a dorm room. The summer vibe might be totally different when the rooftop terrace is open!
Cibola Boutique C (Chugureti)
After two nights at Fabrika, I moved to Cibola Boutique C. Since I was staying in Tbilisi for another week, I wanted an apartment where I could make my own tea and whip up some food. I was immediately drawn to the bright, modern design of the Cibola Boutique apartments. There are three options: A, B, and C. I went with C because it has a separate bedroom.
The apartment is beautifully decorated, and the loft area where I slept has this amazingly chill vibe. Lots of wood and cute details everywhere. There’s a small balcony perfect for soaking up some sun with your morning coffee. Downstairs, there’s a couch near the TV, but it’s not exactly Netflix marathon material – you’re better off watching from the bed next to it.
Light sleepers take note: the Cibola apartments can be a bit noisy since they’re on Davit Aghmashenebeli Street, which is bustling with bars and restaurants. As a solo traveler, though, I actually preferred this – being on a lively street felt safer than a quiet backstreet. The host was super responsive – any questions I sent via WhatsApp were answered almost instantly.
Extra hotel tip for Chugureti: Check out the Moxy Hotel. Some friends of mine stayed there, and it looks amazing. Plus, it’s super convenient – right by the Dry Bridge, so you can easily cross over to the other side of the river. View the rooms here.
Casa Frida
After a quick trip to Signagi, I spent two more nights in the Old Town, this time with my dad. We found this absolute gem of an apartment: Casa Frida. It’s tucked away in a side street where we got to live like locals.
We got the warmest welcome from the owner’s mom, who managed to show us around using a mix of basic English and charades – and she even left us a bottle of wine and water! The owner also sent over a list of restaurant recommendations. The location is perfect for exploring the Old Town – you’re right in the center but in a peaceful little corner.
Casa Frida lives up to its name, with references to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo everywhere. The living room even has a corner with Frida’s iconic bed (don’t worry – you don’t have to sleep in it!). While the building shows its age (the water pressure tells tales of yesteryear), it’s incredibly comfortable. The kitchen has everything you need, and the beds are dreamy.
More Georgia travel inspiration?
Useful links for your Georgia trip
- Accommodation. Favorite remains Booking.com. Would you rather stay in a hostel? Check Hostelworld.
- Activities. Book the best tours and activities at GetYourGuide, Klook, and Viator. ‘Free’ walking tours can be booked at Freetour.com or GuruWalk.
- Car rental. If you want to compare prices and insurance coverage, try Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com. In Georgia, a private transfer or tour with a private driver is often very affordable. Use GoTrip for this.
- Reading tip. If you like reading, I recommend buying this fantastic book: The Eighth Life (for Brilka). It is about generations of women living and suffering in Georgia. More than 1000 pages, so get cozy and comfortable!
- Travel guides. I like paper travel guides to browse through, for sale at Amazon, among others.
- SIM card. Beware of unexpectedly high phone and internet costs. Buy a local SIM card when you arrive, or arrange one online via Airalo.
- Train and Bus Travel by train or bus through Georgia with Busbud, 12Go, or Omio.
- Flights. Compare all your options! Be sure to check out Skyscanner and Kiwi.
- Package deals. Rather go on a catered trip? Start your search at Expedia or CheapOair.
- Yoga retreat. Or treat yourself to a yoga retreat in Georgia.
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