If you're planning a trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, you're in for a treat. This vibrant city is full of culture, history, and amazing food. But no trip to Tbilisi is complete without picking up a few souvenirs to take home with you. And where better to shop for souvenirs than at one of the city's bustling bazaars?
In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best bazaars in Tbilisi for souvenir shopping, what you can expect to find, and some tips for haggling and getting the best deals.
The Best Bazaars for Souvenir Shopping in Tbilisi
Dry Bridge Market
One of the most popular bazaars in Tbilisi is the Dry Bridge Market, located in the heart of the city. This outdoor market is open every day except Monday and is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts.
At the Dry Bridge Market, you'll find everything from old Soviet-era memorabilia to handmade jewelry and pottery. It's a great place to pick up unique souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else.
The market got its name from the fact that it used to be located on a bridge over the Kura River, but it was moved to its current location after the river was dammed in the 1950s. The market has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike since the 1990s, and it's easy to see why.
One of the unique things about the Dry Bridge Market is that many of the vendors are artists and craftsmen who create their own products. This means that you can find one-of-a-kind items that you won't find anywhere else. Some of the most popular items at the market include handmade jewelry, paintings, and vintage Soviet-era items.
Meidan Bazaar
Located in the heart of Tbilisi's Old Town, Meidan Bazaar is a must-visit for anyone looking for traditional Georgian souvenirs. Here you'll find everything from handmade carpets and textiles to traditional Georgian clothing and accessories.
One of the highlights of Meidan Bazaar is the selection of handmade silver jewelry. Georgian silverwork is famous for its intricate designs and high quality, and you'll find plenty of beautiful pieces to choose from here.
The bazaar is located in a historic building that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally a caravanserai, a type of inn that catered to travelers on the Silk Road. Today, the building is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, but the bazaar is still the main attraction.
One of the unique things about Meidan Bazaar is that it's not just a tourist destination. Locals also shop here for traditional Georgian clothing and accessories, so you know you're getting an authentic experience.
Deserter's Bazaar
Deserter's Bazaar is another popular outdoor market in Tbilisi, located in the Saburtalo district. This market is known for its selection of handmade crafts and souvenirs, including ceramics, textiles, and woodwork.
One of the unique things about Deserter's Bazaar is that it's located in an old Soviet military base, which gives it a unique atmosphere. You'll find plenty of interesting items here, including traditional Georgian musical instruments and handmade toys.
The market got its name from the fact that it was originally a place where soldiers who had deserted the Soviet army could sell their belongings. Today, it's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
What to Look for When Shopping for Souvenirs in Tbilisi
When shopping for souvenirs in Tbilisi, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, be prepared to haggle. Bargaining is a common practice at bazaars in Georgia, and vendors expect it.
Another thing to keep in mind is that many of the items you'll find at the bazaars are handmade, so each piece is unique. Take your time to browse and choose the perfect souvenir for you.
Here are some things to keep an eye out for when shopping for souvenirs in Tbilisi:
- Handmade textiles: Georgian textiles are famous for their intricate designs and high quality. Look for handmade scarves, tablecloths, and other textiles.
- Traditional clothing and accessories: Meidan Bazaar is a great place to find traditional Georgian clothing and accessories, such as hats and belts.
- Handmade silver jewelry: Georgian silverwork is famous for its intricate designs and high quality. Look for handmade silver jewelry at Meidan Bazaar and other markets.
- Ceramics and pottery: Georgian ceramics and pottery are known for their unique designs and beautiful colors. Look for handmade plates, bowls, and other pieces.
- Antique and vintage items: The Dry Bridge Market is a great place to find antique and vintage items, such as old Soviet-era memorabilia and vintage jewelry.
Tips for Haggling and Getting the Best Deals
Haggling is a common practice at bazaars in Georgia, and vendors expect it. Here are some tips for getting the best deals:
- Start with a low offer: When you find something you like, start by offering a price that's lower than what you're willing to pay. This gives you room to negotiate.
- Be friendly: Building a rapport with the vendor can go a long way in getting a good deal. Smile, ask questions, and be polite.
- Don't be afraid to walk away: If you're not getting the price you want, don't be afraid to walk away. Often, the vendor will call you back and offer a better deal.
- Buy in bulk: If you're buying multiple items from the same vendor, ask for a discount. Vendors are often willing to give a discount for bulk purchases.
Other Bazaars to Check Out
While the Dry Bridge Market, Meidan Bazaar, and Deserter's Bazaar are some of the most popular bazaars in Tbilisi, there are plenty of other markets to check out as well. Here are a few more to add to your list:
- Navtlugi Market: This market is located in the Vake district and is known for its selection of handmade crafts and souvenirs.
- Lilo Market: This market is located on the outskirts of Tbilisi and is known for its selection of fresh produce and traditional Georgian food products.
- Vagzlis Basroba: This indoor market is located near the central train station and is a great place to find traditional Georgian spices and other food products.
In Conclusion
Shopping for souvenirs at Tbilisi's bazaars is an experience you won't forget. From handmade textiles to traditional clothing and accessories, there's something for everyone. Just remember to haggle, take your time, and choose the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to Tbilisi.