If you're visiting Tbilisi, you'll want to take home a little piece of Georgia with you. Whether it's a traditional Georgian wine or a piece of handmade jewelry, Tbilisi has plenty of souvenir options to choose from. Here's a guide to the best souvenir shopping in Tbilisi.
Rustaveli Avenue
Rustaveli Avenue is Tbilisi's main thoroughfare, and it's a great place to start your souvenir shopping. The avenue is lined with shops selling everything from traditional Georgian clothing to modern fashion. One of the best places to shop on Rustaveli Avenue is the Georgian National Museum gift shop. Here you'll find a wide range of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and handmade crafts.
If you're looking for something more modern, head to the Tbilisi Mall, which is located near Rustaveli Avenue. This large shopping center has a wide range of stores selling everything from clothing to electronics. One of the best places to shop here is the Georgian Wine House, where you can sample and purchase a variety of Georgian wines.
Dry Bridge Flea Market
The Dry Bridge Flea Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique souvenirs. Located in the heart of Tbilisi, the market is open every day except Monday and is filled with vendors selling everything from antique furniture to Soviet-era memorabilia. You can find some great bargains here, but be prepared to haggle.
One of the best things about the Dry Bridge Flea Market is the variety of items you can find. You can find everything from old cameras to vintage clothing to handmade crafts. It's a great place to spend a few hours browsing and picking up unique souvenirs.
Meidan Bazaar
Meidan Bazaar is located in Tbilisi's Old Town and is a great place to shop for traditional Georgian souvenirs. Here you'll find handmade ceramics, embroidered textiles, and traditional Georgian clothing. The bazaar is also a great place to try some traditional Georgian sweets, such as Churchkhela (a type of candy made from nuts and grape juice).
One of the best things about Meidan Bazaar is the atmosphere. The market is located in a beautiful square in the heart of Old Town, and it's a great place to soak up the local culture. You can watch artisans at work, sample local foods, and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Georgian Wine
Speaking of wine, Georgian wine is one of the best souvenirs you can take home from Tbilisi. Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and its wines are known for their unique flavor and production methods. Some of the best places to buy Georgian wine include Vinotheca, Vino Underground, and Winery Khareba.
One of the best things about Georgian wine is the variety. Georgia has over 500 grape varieties, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. You can find everything from dry reds to sweet whites to sparkling wines. And because Georgian wine is not widely exported, it's a great souvenir to take home and share with friends and family.
Handmade Jewelry
If you're looking for a unique piece of jewelry to take home, Tbilisi has plenty of options. Many of the city's jewelry stores sell handmade pieces that are unique to Georgia. Some of the best places to shop for handmade jewelry include Makharadze Jewelry, Tbilisi Jewelry, and Gvinoshi.
One of the best things about Georgian jewelry is the craftsmanship. Many of the pieces are handmade using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. You can find everything from delicate silver earrings to bold statement necklaces.
Georgian Chokha
The chokha is a traditional Georgian garment that is worn by both men and women. It's a great souvenir to take home if you're looking for something truly unique. You can find chokhas in many of the city's souvenir shops, as well as in Meidan Bazaar.
One of the best things about the chokha is its history. The garment has been worn in Georgia for centuries and is a symbol of national pride. It's also a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Georgian Ceramics
Georgian ceramics are known for their intricate designs and bright colors. If you're looking for a unique piece of pottery to take home, head to one of the city's many ceramic shops. Some of the best places to shop for Georgian ceramics include Kinto Ceramics, Tbilisi Ceramics, and Georgian House of Ceramics.
One of the best things about Georgian ceramics is the variety of styles. You can find everything from traditional Georgian designs to modern, minimalist pieces. And because the ceramics are handmade, each piece is unique.
Georgian Spices
Georgian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique spices. If you're a foodie, consider taking home some Georgian spices as a souvenir. Some of the best places to shop for spices include the Dezerter Bazaar and the Dry Bridge Flea Market.
One of the best things about Georgian spices is the variety. Georgian cuisine uses a wide range of spices, including coriander, fenugreek, and saffron. You can find spice blends for everything from meat dishes to soups to desserts.
Final Thoughts
Tbilisi is a great place to shop for souvenirs, whether you're looking for traditional Georgian crafts or modern fashion. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect souvenir to take home. Just remember to haggle at the markets, and don't forget to try some Georgian wine while you're here!