If you're planning a trip to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, you'll want to know how to use the metro system. The Tbilisi Metro is a great way to get around the city, and it's also one of the most affordable modes of transportation. In this guide, we'll show you how to use the Tbilisi Metro, including how to buy tickets, how to navigate the system, and what to expect when you're riding the trains.
Buying Tickets
The first thing you need to do is buy a ticket. You can buy a ticket at any metro station from the ticket vending machines. The machines are easy to use, and they have instructions in both Georgian and English. You can pay with cash or a credit card.
One thing to note is that the Tbilisi Metro uses a smart card system. You'll need to buy a card for 2 GEL and load it with credit. Each ride costs 0.50 GEL, and you can also use the card on the city's buses and cable cars.
Navigating the System
The Tbilisi Metro has two lines: the Red Line and the Green Line. The lines intersect at the Station Square station, which is the main hub of the system.
The Red Line runs from Akhmeteli Theatre in the north to Varketili in the southeast. The Green Line runs from Didube in the northwest to Samgori in the southeast.
The stations are announced in both Georgian and English, and there are maps in each train car. The signs in the stations are also in both languages, so it's easy to navigate the system.
Riding the Trains
When you get on the train, you'll notice that the cars are clean and well-maintained. The trains run frequently, with intervals of 2-3 minutes during peak hours and 6-7 minutes during off-peak hours.
The trains can get crowded during rush hour, but they're still a great way to get around the city. You'll see people from all walks of life on the trains, from students to businesspeople to families with children.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Tbilisi Metro is closed from midnight to 6 am. If you're out late, you'll need to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Bolt or Yandex.
Tips for Riding the Tbilisi Metro
- Avoid rush hour if possible. The trains can get very crowded, especially on the Red Line.
- Keep your valuables close to you. While the Tbilisi Metro is generally safe, it's always a good idea to be cautious.
- Don't eat or drink on the trains. This is considered impolite in Georgia.
- Be prepared for some walking. Some of the stations are quite deep, and you'll need to take several flights of stairs or an escalator to reach the trains.
- Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi. The Tbilisi Metro offers free Wi-Fi in all stations and trains.
Exploring Tbilisi by Metro
One of the great things about the Tbilisi Metro is that it can take you to many of the city's top attractions. For example, if you want to visit the Old Town, you can take the Green Line to the Avlabari station. From there, it's just a short walk to the Narikala Fortress, the sulfur baths, and other historic sites.
If you want to see some of Tbilisi's modern architecture, take the Red Line to the Technical University station. From there, you can walk to the Bridge of Peace, the Tbilisi Concert Hall, and other contemporary landmarks.
Beyond Tbilisi
While the Tbilisi Metro is great for exploring the city, it's not the only way to get around. If you want to visit other parts of Georgia, you can take a train from the Central Railway Station, which is located near the Station Square metro station.
You can also take a marshrutka, which is a small minibus that operates on fixed routes. Marshrutkas are cheap and convenient, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. If you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, you may want to consider renting a car or hiring a private driver.
Conclusion
The Tbilisi Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. With two lines and frequent trains, it's easy to navigate the system and explore all that Tbilisi has to offer. Just remember to buy a smart card, avoid rush hour if possible, and keep your valuables close to you. And don't forget to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi! Happy travels!