Tbilisi is a city rich in history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a perfect destination for families seeking affordable fun. Here are 23 budget-friendly activities to enjoy with your kids in Tbilisi, combining education, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Explore Narikala Fortress
Narikala Fortress is one of the most prominent landmarks in Tbilisi, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The fortress dates back to the 4th century and offers an exciting experience for children as they explore the ancient ruins and climb the fortress walls. While adults will appreciate the historical significance and breathtaking views, kids will love the adventure of hiking up to the fortress (or taking the cable car if they prefer). The hike is manageable for most children and gives them a sense of exploration as they wander through centuries-old structures. Best of all, exploring the fortress is completely free, while the cable car ride to the top costs just 2.50 GEL (around $1).
2. Enjoy a Day at Mtatsminda Park
Mtatsminda Park is a hilltop amusement park with something for everyone. The park is easily accessible via a funicular ride (5 GEL/$2), which adds to the adventure. Once at the top, you’ll find a range of rides and attractions, from bumper cars and carousels to more thrilling roller coasters. The rides cost between 1-3 GEL ($0.40-$1.20), so you can pick and choose based on your budget. The park also features a large playground area where children can play for free, and the panoramic views of the city are breathtaking. Families can bring their own picnic or enjoy reasonably priced snacks at the cafés within the park.
3. Stroll Through Rike Park
Rike Park is a beautiful green space located near the Kura River and offers an excellent spot for families to relax. The park features fountains, modern sculptures, and wide open spaces perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk. Kids will especially enjoy the large playground with slides and climbing frames. Rike Park is also home to the futuristic Bridge of Peace, which lights up at night and makes for a great family photo. Although the park itself is free, renting electric scooters or small boats is a fun option for around 5-10 GEL ($2-$4) per hour.
4. Ride the Cable Car
The Tbilisi cable car ride from Rike Park to Narikala Fortress or the Mother of Georgia statue offers one of the most affordable and scenic ways to see the city. Kids will be thrilled by the smooth ride high above the city, and the panoramic views of Tbilisi below are unforgettable. For just 2.50 GEL ($1) per person, it’s an inexpensive yet exciting adventure that families can enjoy together. At the top, you can explore the surrounding attractions like Narikala Fortress and Mother of Georgia.
5. Visit Tbilisi Zoo and Dolphinarium
The Tbilisi Zoo is an affordable family outing where children can see a variety of animals from around the world. The zoo is located near the Tbilisi Mall and offers a fun and educational experience for kids, with entry fees costing just 3 GEL ($1.20) per person. This is a simple zoo and is not going to be up to the standards of most American or European museums. For an even more unique experience, families can visit the Dolphinarium, where shows featuring dolphins and sea lions are held. Tickets for the Dolphinarium shows are around 10 GEL ($4), making it a budget-friendly option for animal lovers.
6. Turtle Lake
Turtle Lake, known as Kus Tba, is a popular getaway spot just a short drive from central Tbilisi. It’s perfect for a relaxing day outdoors, with walking trails, picnic areas, and paddleboats available for rent. The lake is surrounded by hills, making it a scenic location for a family hike or bike ride. Renting paddleboats costs around 5 GEL ($2) for half an hour, making it an affordable way to enjoy the lake. There’s also a nearby café where families can grab a snack after their outdoor adventure.
7. Explore the Dry Bridge Market
The Dry Bridge Market is more than just a flea market; it’s an experience in itself. Here, families can wander through stalls selling Soviet-era memorabilia, antique jewelry, paintings, and quirky knick-knacks. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, browsing the unique items is a fun and educational way for children to learn about Georgia’s history and culture. The market is free to explore, and many vendors are happy to share stories about the items they sell. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to history in a hands-on, engaging manner.
8. Leghvtakhevi Waterfall
Hidden in the heart of Tbilisi, the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. Located in the historic Abanotubani district, the walk to the waterfall is scenic, passing by the famous sulfur baths and beautiful old buildings. The waterfall itself is a great spot to relax and take photos, and kids will enjoy splashing in the cool water or exploring the surrounding rocks. The area is free to visit, making it a great budget-friendly outdoor activity.
9. Watch a Free Puppet Show at Gabriadze Theater
The Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater is famous for its elaborate puppet shows, and while tickets for the indoor performances are reasonably priced (starting at 15 GEL/$6), families can also enjoy the free outdoor show that takes place several times a day. The whimsical clock tower next to the theater puts on a mini-performance, where small puppets act out scenes to the delight of children and adults alike. It’s a charming way to spend a few minutes while exploring Old Tbilisi.
10. Ride the Tbilisi Funicular
The Tbilisi Funicular is an iconic part of the city, offering a scenic ride up to Mtatsminda Park. For just 5 GEL ($2) each way, the funicular is both a mode of transportation and an attraction in itself. The ride takes you up to Mtatsminda, where you can enjoy various activities like amusement park rides, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. For families who want to skip the amusement park, simply enjoying the views from the top and the funicular ride itself is a great way to spend an afternoon.
11. Visit the Tbilisi Botanical Garden
The Tbilisi Botanical Garden is a lush, green oasis located near Narikala Fortress. It’s the perfect place for families to escape the city and enjoy nature. The garden covers a vast area with walking trails, waterfalls, and plenty of spots for a picnic. Entry to the garden is only 4 GEL ($1.50) for adults, and it’s free for children under 6, making it an affordable outing for families. Kids will love exploring the different plants and spotting birds or insects along the trails.
12. Discover Chronicles of Georgia
The Chronicles of Georgia is a massive monument located on a hill near the Tbilisi Sea. The monument, designed to tell the story of Georgia’s history, features towering columns adorned with intricate carvings depicting various scenes from the country’s past. The best part? Visiting the monument is free. Kids will be in awe of the sheer size of the statues, and parents can enjoy the educational aspect as they learn about Georgian history. The view of Tbilisi Sea from the top is also stunning.
13. Lisi Lake
Lisi Lake is a lesser-known gem compared to Turtle Lake, but it’s a perfect spot for families who want to enjoy some quiet time outdoors. The lake is surrounded by walking paths, bike rentals, and picnic areas, making it a great place for a family outing. If your kids enjoy outdoor activities, you can rent paddleboards or bikes for around 10-15 GEL ($4-$6) per hour. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a great place to unwind.
14. Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue is the main thoroughfare of Tbilisi and a vibrant area full of cultural landmarks, shops, and cafes. Families can stroll down the avenue, stopping by historical sites like the Georgian National Museum, the Opera House, and Parliament. While there are many things to see and do, walking along Rustaveli Avenue is free, and you can always grab affordable snacks from local street vendors for a quick treat.
15. Take a Sulfur Bath in Abanotubani
The sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district are not only a cultural experience but also an affordable way to relax after a day of exploring. Communal baths start at around 10-15 GEL ($4-$6) per person, and kids will enjoy the warm waters that are known for their therapeutic benefits. It’s a unique activity that combines relaxation with a bit of local tradition, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
16. Swim at Tbilisi Sea
The Tbilisi Sea is a large reservoir located just outside the city, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike during the summer months. While swimming and relaxing on the shore are free, you can rent paddle boats or try watersports for a small fee. If you’re looking for a refreshing break from the city, Tbilisi Sea is a great option for a family day out.
17. Take a Self-Guided Tour of Old Tbilisi
Old Tbilisi is a treasure trove of cultural and historical sights. Families can spend hours wandering through its narrow streets, discovering hidden courtyards, colorful balconies, and charming churches. A self-guided walking tour costs nothing, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse your kids in the history and culture of the city. Don’t forget to stop by one of the many traditional bakeries along the way for some freshly baked khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).
18. Erekle II Street
Erekle II Street is a pedestrian-only area in Old Tbilisi that’s full of life. Kids will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with street musicians, entertainers, and performers. The street is lined with cafes and small shops, making it a great place for a leisurely walk. While the street itself is free to explore, you can always grab an affordable snack or ice cream from one of the vendors along the way.
19. Mziuri Park
Mziuri Park is a hidden gem in Tbilisi, offering a large playground, skateboarding areas, and plenty of green space for kids to run around. The park often hosts free events, workshops, and performances for children, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. Parents can relax while their kids enjoy the various activities, and since the park is free, it’s an easy choice for a budget-friendly outing.
20. Visit the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography
For an affordable dive into Georgia’s cultural history, the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography is a fantastic option. Entry is just 5 GEL ($2) for adults, and kids can learn about traditional Georgian life as they explore replicas of old Georgian houses and participate in craft demonstrations. It’s both educational and fun, making it perfect for curious young minds.
21. Orbeliani Square
Orbeliani Square is one of Tbilisi’s most colorful and picturesque spots, recently renovated with vibrant facades and beautifully designed fountains. Kids can run around in the open space, while parents admire the architecture. The square is located near the famous sulfur baths, making it a great stop during your exploration of Old Tbilisi.
Conclusion
Tbilisi is a city that offers an abundance of affordable activities for families. From exploring ancient fortresses and lush gardens to enjoying amusement parks and cultural shows, there’s something for everyone without the need to spend a fortune. Whether you’re hiking up to Narikala Fortress or relaxing at Turtle Lake, these 21 budget-friendly activities ensure that your family can enjoy Tbilisi to the fullest, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
