If you’re looking for a trending international destination for your next getaway, consider Tbilisi. According to Condé Nast Traveler, Tbilisi was one of the best places to visit in 2018. The city lies on the banks of the Kura River, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Tbilisi is full of historic architecture, museums, theaters and universities, along with a growing nightlife and a delectable food scene.
It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Baltimore to Tbilisi in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.
(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)
Flight deals to Tbilisi
The cheapest flights between Baltimore and Tbilisi are if you leave on Feb. 16 and return from Georgia on Feb. 23. KLM currently has tickets for $775, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had in May. If you fly out of Baltimore on May 22 and return from Tbilisi on May 31, KLM can get you there and back for $779 roundtrip.
Top Tbilisi hotels
Regarding where to stay, here are a couple of Tbilisi’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel, Tbilisi (Rose Revolution Square 1)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel, Tbilisi. The hotel has a 4.5-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $239.
Set in the heart of Tbilisi, this hotel is close to the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, Kashveti Church and Freedom Square.
The Tbilisi Marriott Hotel (Rustaveli Avenue 13)
There's also the 4.3-star rated The Tbilisi Marriott Hotel. Rooms are currently set at $250/night.
Featured Tbilisi food and drink
If you're looking for a popular spot to grab a bite, Tbilisi has plenty of excellent eateries to choose from. Here are two from Skyscanner's listings to help you get started.
Machakhela (23 Tumaniani St.)
If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Machakhela, which has an average of 4.7 stars out of 19 reviews on Skyscanner.
"This is was our first attempt with Georgian food and it was exquisite," wrote visitor Mitchell.
Coffeesta (Rustaveli Avenue)
Don't forget the essentials: where to get your coffee fix. For a popular option, check out Coffeesta, with 4.4 stars from five reviews.
"The coffee here is great, but what I really love is the location right on Rustaveli Avenue," wrote reviewer Robert. "Try to grab a seat outside if you can and enjoy the amazing people watching."
Featured local attractions
To round out your trip, Tbilisi offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
Clock Tower (13 Ioane Shavteli St.)
The top-rated visitor attraction in Tbilisi, according to Skyscanner, is the Clock Tower.
"This unique structure near the entrance of Tbilisi's old city sets the tone for the artsy and cute little world of the city's old town," wrote visitor Jenny. "It's more of a leaning tower and a steel beam seems to hold it in place."
Botanical Garden
Then, there's the Botanical Garden.
"Small but pretty botanical garden in the heart of the old town," wrote visitor Maria. "There is a nice waterfall inside, the garden itself is mostly very natural ... just the way it would look like if there was no city around."
Ananuri
Finally, spend some time at Ananuri.
"Wonderfully preserved ancient fort," wrote visitor Maria. "There are many spots with a beautiful view. If you like to get the best photo, go either to the middle of the bridge or climb into the tower."
