Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. It is also a great destination for families with kids, as there are plenty of fun and educational activities for children of all ages to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Tbilisi with kids:
1. Visit the Tbilisi Zoo
The Tbilisi Zoo is a great place to take kids for a fun day out. It is home to over 200 species of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, monkeys, and more. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, such as the petting zoo, where they can get up close and personal with some of the animals.
One of the most exciting exhibits at the Tbilisi Zoo is the African Savannah, which features a variety of animals from the African continent. Kids will love seeing the zebras, giraffes, and antelopes grazing together, while the lions and cheetahs stalk their prey.
2. Explore the Old Town
The Old Town of Tbilisi is a fascinating place to explore with kids. It is full of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and historical landmarks. Kids will love wandering around the cobblestone streets and discovering hidden gems, such as the old caravanserais and the ancient sulfur baths.
One of the most popular landmarks in the Old Town is the Narikala Fortress, which dates back to the 4th century. Kids will love taking the cable car up to the fortress and exploring the ancient walls and towers. The view from the top is also breathtaking, with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
3. Visit the Georgian National Museum
The Georgian National Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Georgia. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, such as the dinosaur skeletons and the replica of an ancient Georgian village. There are also plenty of hands-on activities and workshops for kids to participate in.
One of the most interesting exhibits at the Georgian National Museum is the Treasury, which houses a collection of ancient gold and silver artifacts. Kids will love seeing the intricate designs and learning about the history behind each piece.
4. Take a Cable Car Ride
The cable car ride up to the Narikala Fortress is a must-do activity in Tbilisi. Kids will love the thrill of the ride and the stunning views of the city from the top. Once at the top, you can explore the fortress and enjoy a picnic with a view.
Another great cable car ride in Tbilisi is the one that takes you up to the Mtatsminda Park. The ride is a bit longer, but the views are equally stunning. Kids will love seeing the city from a different perspective and spotting their favorite landmarks from above.
5. Visit Mtatsminda Park
Mtatsminda Park is a fun-filled amusement park located on top of Mtatsminda Mountain. There are plenty of rides and attractions for kids of all ages, including a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and bumper cars. There are also plenty of food stalls and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a whole day.
One of the most popular attractions at Mtatsminda Park is the Funicular, which takes you up to the top of the mountain. Kids will love the thrill of the ride and the stunning views of the city. Once at the top, you can enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants or take a walk in the park.
6. Learn to Make Georgian Cuisine
Georgian cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and unique ingredients. Kids will love learning how to make traditional Georgian dishes, such as khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese bread). There are plenty of cooking classes and workshops available in Tbilisi, where kids can learn from local chefs.
One of the most popular cooking classes in Tbilisi is the one that takes place at a local family's home. Kids will love the warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as the opportunity to learn from a Georgian grandma. The class usually starts with a trip to the local market to buy ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking experience.
7. Go on a Treasure Hunt
Kids love a good treasure hunt, and Tbilisi is the perfect place to go on one. There are plenty of hidden gems and secret spots to discover in the city, such as hidden courtyards, ancient churches, and hidden alleyways. You can create your own treasure hunt or join one of the many organized tours available.
One of the most popular treasure hunts in Tbilisi is the one that takes you to the hidden courtyards of the Old Town. Kids will love discovering the hidden gardens and fountains, as well as the colorful murals and street art.
8. Visit the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum
The Open-Air Ethnographic Museum is a fascinating place to learn about the traditional way of life in Georgia. Kids will love exploring the traditional houses and workshops, such as the blacksmith's shop and the pottery workshop. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids to participate in.
One of the most interesting exhibits at the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum is the one that showcases the traditional Georgian costumes. Kids will love trying on the colorful dresses and hats, as well as learning about the history behind each piece.
9. Take a Walk in the Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens of Tbilisi are a beautiful and peaceful place to take a walk with kids. There are plenty of paths and trails to explore, as well as a stunning waterfall and a glass bridge. Kids will love spotting the different plants and flowers, as well as the occasional turtle or peacock.
One of the most popular trails in the Botanical Gardens is the one that takes you to the waterfall. Kids will love the sound of the water and the mist that rises from the pool. There are also plenty of benches and picnic areas along the way, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
10. Visit the Children's Art Gallery
The Children's Art Gallery is a unique and inspiring place to visit with kids. It is dedicated to showcasing the artwork of young Georgian artists, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits and workshops for kids to participate in. Kids will love creating their own artwork and seeing it displayed in the gallery.
One of the most interesting exhibits at the Children's Art Gallery is the one that features the artwork of refugee children. Kids will love learning about the experiences of these children and seeing how art can help them express their emotions.
In conclusion, Tbilisi is a great destination for families with kids, as there are plenty of fun and educational activities to enjoy. From visiting the zoo and exploring the Old Town to learning to make Georgian cuisine and going on a treasure hunt, there is something for every child to enjoy in this vibrant and fascinating city.