Tbilisi

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this charming little church overlooks the city from a steep cliff on the left bank of the river Kura. Throughout its history the church was destroyed and rebuilt several times and is now one of the most important landmarks of Tbilisi. Outside the church stands the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the city's founder.

Right beside the Dry Bridge market sits a park that is the hangout spot for the city's young and hip. On sunny days the lawns fill up with groups of people enjoying fresh air. The park has been fully renovated and now features a skate park and several bars.

Even though Georgians are not the biggest fans of their Soviet heritage, this great example of Tbilisi 70s brutalism must not be missed. Built on steep slopes in Nutsubidze street, it is one of the quirkiest constructions you will ever see. The three apartment blocks are connected by a bridge that goes through them. From the sky bridge, you can also see a nice view of the residential parts of Tbilisi. Once you are up and walk through the bridge, turn right and take a walk down the winding streets and admire a Caucasian architectural know-how: semi-legal additions to residential blocks of all shapes, sizes and materials.

Mtatsminda Park is a landscaped amusement park located at the top of Mount Mtatsminda at the hight of 770 metres. The giant ferris wheel and the old Soviet TV-tower are can be spotted from most places in the city. You can hike up one of the trails or ride a renovated funicular car.

The Bridge of Peace was built in 2010 and connects the old town with Rike Park on the other side of the Kura River. This bow-shaped pedestrian bridge is a marvel of modern architecture, a blend of steel and glass that shines with countless lights during the night. The bridge also offers a majestic view over the Metekhi Church and the Narikala Fortress.

Though some parts of it were renovated (or even added) throughout history, Anchiskhati Basilica still remains the oldest church in Tbilisi, dating back to the sixth century. The church is adorned with icons and holy images and in some spots a few of the original frescoes are still visible.

The sulphur baths in Tbilisi are world-famous, in fact the whole city was built on top of thermal springs, with hot water reaching up to 40-50 degrees. There are different baths with different prices, from the cheaper shower rooms to the more expensive private rooms with sauna and massage.

Among both locals and tourists Rike Park has become one of the most important meeting points and recreational areas of Tbilisi, a place to relax and stroll around in tranquillity. Rike Park also hosts the main terminal of the cable car that leads to the Narikala Fortress and the two modern tube-shaped buildings that are the new Concert Hall and Exhibition Centre.

Liberty Square is a focal point in Tbilisi and even though it changed names multiple times during its history, it is now a symbol of the Georgian struggle for freedom and independence. In the centre of the square stands the Freedom Monument, a white column with a golden statue on top depicting St George, the patron saint of Georgia.

The National Botanical Garden of Georgia in Tbilisi covers an area of 161 hectares in the foothills behind Narikala Fortress and contains a collection of over 4,500 different plant groups. An arched bridge built over a waterfall provides a magnificent view on the Tsavkisistskali river and the garden.