If you're looking for a unique souvenir to take home from your trip to Tbilisi, a traditional Georgian hat is a must-have. Not only are they stylish and practical, but they are also steeped in history and culture. Here are some of the best shops in Tbilisi to buy traditional Georgian hats.
1. Kapani
Kapani is a well-known hat shop in Tbilisi that has been in business for over a century. They specialize in traditional Georgian hats, including the Papakha, a fur hat that is popular among men in the Caucasus region. The shop is located in the Old Town, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.
The Papakha is a symbol of the Caucasus region and has been worn for centuries by shepherds and warriors. It is made from sheepskin or wool and is designed to keep the head and ears warm in cold weather. The Papakha is also a status symbol, with different styles and colors indicating social status.
2. Tbilisi Dry Bridge Market
If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, head to the Tbilisi Dry Bridge Market. This open-air market is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts. You'll find several vendors selling traditional Georgian hats, including the Chokha, a woolen hat worn by men and women.
The Chokha is a traditional Georgian hat that has been worn for centuries. It is made from wool and is designed to keep the head warm in cold weather. The Chokha is also a symbol of national pride, with different regions of Georgia having their own unique styles and colors.
3. Caravan
Caravan is a boutique shop in Tbilisi that specializes in handmade crafts and souvenirs. They have a great selection of traditional Georgian hats, including the Khevsuruli, a woolen hat with a pom-pom on top. The shop is located in the trendy Vake neighborhood, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
The Khevsuruli is a traditional Georgian hat that is popular in the Khevsureti region of Georgia. It is made from wool and is designed to keep the head warm in cold weather. The pom-pom on top is a decorative touch that adds to the hat's charm.
4. Marjanishvili Square
Marjanishvili Square is a bustling area in Tbilisi with plenty of shops and restaurants. There are several vendors selling traditional Georgian hats in the square, including the Kukuri, a felt hat worn by men and women. The prices are reasonable, and the vendors are happy to negotiate.
The Kukuri is a traditional Georgian hat that is made from felt. It is designed to keep the head warm in cold weather and is popular among both men and women. The Kukuri is also a symbol of national pride, with different regions of Georgia having their own unique styles and colors.
5. Dry Bridge Flea Market
The Dry Bridge Flea Market is another great place to find traditional Georgian hats. This market is open every day except Monday and is located near the Tbilisi Circus. You'll find several vendors selling hats, including the Chokha and the Khevsuruli.
In addition to hats, the Dry Bridge Flea Market is a great place to find antiques, vintage items, and handmade crafts. It's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and the prices are reasonable.
6. Samoseli Pirveli
Samoseli Pirveli is a shop located in the Old Town that specializes in traditional Georgian clothing and accessories. They have a great selection of hats, including the Khevsuruli and the Chokha. The staff is knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect hat to suit your style.
In addition to hats, Samoseli Pirveli sells traditional Georgian clothing, including the Chokha, a woolen coat worn by men in the Caucasus region. The shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else.
7. Vernissage
Vernissage is a large open-air market in Tbilisi that is open every day except Monday. You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs and handmade crafts, including traditional Georgian hats. The prices are reasonable, and the vendors are happy to negotiate.
In addition to hats, Vernissage sells traditional Georgian crafts, including ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else.
8. Sioni Cathedral
If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, head to the Sioni Cathedral in the Old Town. There are several vendors selling traditional Georgian hats outside the cathedral, including the Kukuri and the Chokha. The prices are reasonable, and the vendors are happy to negotiate.
The Sioni Cathedral is a popular tourist destination in the Old Town, and the vendors outside the cathedral sell a variety of souvenirs, including hats, jewelry, and textiles. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else.
9. Tbilisi Mall
If you prefer shopping in a mall, head to the Tbilisi Mall. There are several shops selling traditional Georgian hats, including Kapani. The prices are slightly higher than at other shops, but the selection is great, and the mall is air-conditioned, making it a great place to escape the heat.
In addition to hats, the Tbilisi Mall sells a variety of clothing, accessories, and electronics. It's a great place to find everything you need in one location.
10. Meidan Bazaar
The Meidan Bazaar is a popular tourist destination in the Old Town, and for good reason. You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs and handmade crafts, including traditional Georgian hats. The prices are reasonable, and the vendors are happy to negotiate.
In addition to hats, the Meidan Bazaar sells traditional Georgian crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs that you won't find anywhere else.
Buying a traditional Georgian hat is a great way to remember your trip to Tbilisi. Not only are they stylish and practical, but they are also steeped in history and culture. Whether you prefer shopping in a mall or at an open-air market, there are plenty of options in Tbilisi. So, grab your wallet and head out to find the perfect hat to suit your style.