If you're looking for unique souvenirs and gifts to take home from your trip to Tbilisi, handmade crafts are the way to go. From traditional textiles to contemporary ceramics, there's no shortage of locally-made treasures to discover in Georgia's capital city. Here's a guide to some of the best places to find handmade crafts in Tbilisi.
Dry Bridge Market
One of the most famous spots for shopping in Tbilisi is the Dry Bridge Market, located in the Old Town. This open-air market is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts. You'll find everything from old Soviet-era cameras to hand-carved wooden figurines to colorful textiles and rugs. The market is open every day except Monday, and it's a great place to browse and haggle with vendors.
The Dry Bridge Market is a must-visit for anyone interested in handmade crafts in Tbilisi. It's a vibrant and bustling market that's full of energy and excitement. You'll find vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade ceramics to traditional Georgian textiles. The prices are generally quite reasonable, but be prepared to haggle a bit to get the best deal. And don't forget to bring cash, as many vendors don't accept credit cards.
Tbilisi Flea Market
Another popular market for handmade crafts is the Tbilisi Flea Market, which takes place on Sundays in the Fabrika courtyard. This market is a bit more curated than the Dry Bridge Market, with a focus on vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as handmade ceramics, prints, and textiles. You'll find a mix of local and international vendors, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.
The Tbilisi Flea Market is a great place to find unique and quirky handmade items that you won't find anywhere else. From vintage clothing to handmade jewelry to quirky home decor, there's something for everyone at this market. The prices can be a bit higher than at the Dry Bridge Market, but the quality of the items is generally quite good. And the atmosphere is lively and fun, with music and food vendors adding to the festive vibe.
Fabrika
Speaking of Fabrika, this former Soviet sewing factory has been transformed into a hipster haven with a variety of shops, cafes, and bars. While you're there for the flea market, be sure to check out the Fabrika Concept Store, which sells a range of handmade items from local designers. You'll find everything from leather bags to jewelry to home decor, all with a modern and stylish twist.
The Fabrika Concept Store is a great place to find handmade crafts that have a contemporary and stylish edge. The items are all made by local designers, so you can be sure that you're getting something unique and authentic. The prices can be a bit higher than at some of the markets, but the quality of the items is generally quite good. And the store itself is worth a visit, with its industrial-chic decor and cool vibe.
Art-Gereti
If you're looking for traditional Georgian crafts, Art-Gereti is the place to go. This shop specializes in handmade textiles, including woolen blankets, scarves, and traditional chokhas (a type of men's coat). The quality of the craftsmanship is top-notch, and the prices are reasonable. You'll also find a selection of ceramics, woodcarvings, and other handmade items.
Art-Gereti is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional Georgian crafts. The shop is small but packed with beautiful handmade textiles, including some that are made using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. And if you're lucky, you might even get to see some of the craftspeople at work.
Tbilisi Silk Museum
For a deeper dive into Georgian textile traditions, head to the Tbilisi Silk Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history and production of silk in Georgia, and it includes a shop where you can buy handmade silk scarves, ties, and other items. The designs are inspired by traditional Georgian patterns and motifs, and the quality of the silk is exceptional.
The Tbilisi Silk Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the history and production of silk in Georgia. The museum itself is full of interesting exhibits and artifacts, and the shop is a great place to find unique and high-quality silk items. The prices can be a bit higher than at some of the markets, but the quality of the items is exceptional. And the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so don't be afraid to ask questions.
Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography
If you're interested in traditional crafts from all over Georgia, a visit to the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography is a must. This outdoor museum features dozens of historic buildings from different regions of Georgia, and each one includes exhibits on local crafts and traditions. You'll see everything from pottery to weaving to woodcarving, and you can buy handmade items from the museum shop.
The Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography is a unique and fascinating place to learn about traditional crafts and traditions from all over Georgia. The museum itself is beautiful, with historic buildings set in a picturesque park. And the exhibits on traditional crafts are both informative and inspiring. The museum shop is also a great place to find handmade crafts that are made using traditional methods and materials.
Marjanishvili Square
If you're in the mood for some street shopping, head to Marjanishvili Square in the heart of Tbilisi. This bustling square is surrounded by shops and stalls selling all kinds of goods, including handmade crafts. You'll find everything from traditional textiles to contemporary jewelry to quirky souvenirs. The prices are generally reasonable, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.
Marjanishvili Square is a great place to soak up the energy and excitement of Tbilisi's street markets. You'll find a mix of local and tourist shoppers, and the vendors are friendly and eager to make a sale. The prices are generally quite reasonable, and the selection of handmade crafts is impressive. And if you need a break from shopping, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area where you can relax and recharge.
Other Tips for Shopping for Handmade Crafts in Tbilisi
- Don't be afraid to haggle. In markets like the Dry Bridge Market, bargaining is expected, and vendors often start with high prices. Be polite but firm, and don't be afraid to walk away if you can't agree on a price.
- Look for quality materials and craftsmanship. While some handmade items in Tbilisi can be quite cheap, it's worth investing in pieces that are made with care and attention to detail. Look for items that use natural materials like wool, silk, and wood, and check for any signs of shoddy workmanship.
- Ask for recommendations. If you're not sure where to go for handmade crafts, ask locals or your hotel staff for suggestions. They may know of hidden gems that aren't as well-known to tourists.
- Consider shipping. If you're worried about fitting all your handmade treasures into your luggage, many shops and markets in Tbilisi offer shipping services. Just be sure to ask about shipping costs and delivery times before you make a purchase.
Whether you're a serious collector or just looking for a unique souvenir, Tbilisi has plenty of options for handmade crafts. From bustling markets to boutique shops, there's something for every taste and budget. So grab your wallet and your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the best of Georgian craftsmanship. And don't forget to haggle!