If you're a photography enthusiast, Tbilisi has plenty of hidden gems that are worth exploring. While the city is known for its stunning architecture and vibrant street life, there are many lesser-known spots that offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities. In this post, we'll explore some of the best off-the-beaten-path photography spots in Tbilisi.
1. The Dry Bridge Market
The Dry Bridge Market is a must-visit for any photography enthusiast. This open-air market is located in the heart of Tbilisi and is a treasure trove of antique and vintage items, from old cameras and typewriters to Soviet-era memorabilia. The market is open every day except Monday, and it's best to visit early in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are thin.
One of the best things about the Dry Bridge Market is the people-watching. You'll see locals haggling over prices, tourists browsing the stalls, and vendors selling everything from jewelry to paintings. The market is a great place to capture candid shots of everyday life in Tbilisi.
2. The Abandoned Cable Car Station
Located on the outskirts of Tbilisi, the abandoned cable car station offers a unique perspective of the city. The station was built in the 1960s and operated until the 1990s, when it was abandoned due to disrepair. Today, the station is a popular spot for urban explorers and photographers. The views from the top are stunning, and the rusted metal and peeling paint make for great photo subjects.
To get to the abandoned cable car station, you'll need to take a taxi or public transportation. Once you arrive, be prepared to do some climbing. The station is located on a steep hill, and the stairs can be slippery. But the effort is worth it for the views alone.
3. The Tbilisi Sea
The Tbilisi Sea is a man-made reservoir located just outside the city. While it's a popular spot for swimming and boating, it's also a great place for photography. The surrounding hills offer stunning views of the water, and the sunsets are particularly beautiful. If you're lucky, you might even spot some wildlife, such as herons or pelicans.
To get to the Tbilisi Sea, you can take a taxi or public transportation. There are several beaches and parks around the reservoir, so you can choose the spot that best suits your photography needs. Be sure to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views.
4. The Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem in Tbilisi. Located on the slopes of the Narikala Fortress, the gardens offer stunning views of the city and a wide variety of flora. There are several different sections to explore, including a Japanese garden, a palm house, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants. The gardens are particularly beautiful in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
One of the best things about the Botanical Gardens is the variety of photo subjects. You can capture close-up shots of flowers and plants, or wide-angle shots of the city skyline. The gardens are also a great place to practice your macro photography skills.
5. The Narikala Fortress
The Narikala Fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tbilisi. While it's a popular tourist spot, there are plenty of hidden corners and viewpoints that are perfect for photography. The fortress offers stunning views of the city, and the ancient walls and towers make for great photo subjects. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top of the fortress for an even better view.
One of the best times to visit the Narikala Fortress is at sunset. The warm light and long shadows make for dramatic photos. Be sure to bring a tripod to capture the scene in low light.
6. The Fabrika Hostel
The Fabrika Hostel is a former Soviet sewing factory that has been converted into a trendy hostel and cultural center. The building is filled with street art and industrial design elements, making it a great spot for urban photography. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, and the courtyard is a popular spot for events and concerts.
The Fabrika Hostel is a great place to practice your street photography skills. You'll find plenty of interesting characters and colorful backdrops to photograph. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a live performance or exhibition.
7. The Tbilisi Funicular
The Tbilisi Funicular is a cable car that takes visitors from the city center to the top of Mtatsminda Mountain. While the views from the top are stunning, the journey itself is also worth photographing. The cable car passes through a series of tunnels and overpasses, offering unique perspectives of the city.
To get to the Tbilisi Funicular, you can take a taxi or public transportation. The cable car runs every day from early morning until late at night. Be sure to bring a fast lens to capture the changing light as you ascend the mountain.
8. The Old Tbilisi Baths
The Old Tbilisi Baths are a historic landmark in the city. While the baths themselves are still in operation, the surrounding streets are also worth exploring. The narrow alleyways and colorful buildings make for great photo subjects, and the steam rising from the baths adds an atmospheric touch.
To capture the essence of the Old Tbilisi Baths, be sure to use a wide-angle lens. You'll want to capture the narrow streets and colorful buildings in their entirety. And don't be afraid to experiment with black and white photography to give your photos a timeless feel.
9. The Tbilisi Metro
The Tbilisi Metro is a great spot for street photography. The stations are filled with Soviet-era architecture and design elements, and the crowds of commuters offer plenty of photo opportunities. Be sure to get permission before photographing people, as some may be uncomfortable with it.
To get the best shots in the Tbilisi Metro, try to visit during off-peak hours. The stations can get crowded during rush hour, making it difficult to get a clear shot. And be sure to bring a fast lens to capture the fast-moving trains.
10. The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre
The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. While it's a popular spot for tourists, there are plenty of hidden corners and details that are worth photographing. The ornate façade and grand staircase make for great photo subjects, and the interior is just as stunning.
To capture the beauty of the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, be sure to bring a tripod and a wide-angle lens. You'll want to capture the grandeur of the building in its entirety, as well as the intricate details of the décor.
Conclusion
Tbilisi is a city full of hidden gems for photography enthusiasts. From abandoned cable car stations to historic baths, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path spots that offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these spots are sure to inspire your creativity and help you capture the beauty of Tbilisi.