If you're planning a trip to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, you're in for a treat. This vibrant city is full of history, culture, and nightlife. But if you're on a budget, you might be worried about how much it will cost to enjoy the nightlife scene. Don't worry, though – there are plenty of ways to have a great time without breaking the bank. Here's our guide to saving money on Tbilisi nightlife.
Start with Happy Hour
One of the easiest ways to save money on drinks is to take advantage of happy hour specials. Many bars and clubs in Tbilisi offer discounted drinks during certain hours of the day. For example, at the popular dive bar, Mtkvarze, you can get a beer for as little as 3 GEL (less than $1 USD) during happy hour. Other places may offer half-priced cocktails or discounted shots. Do your research and find out when and where the best happy hour deals are.
Explore the Old Town
Tbilisi's Old Town is a must-visit for any traveler, but it's also a great place to save money on nightlife. Many of the bars and clubs in this area are more affordable than the ones in the newer parts of the city. Plus, the Old Town has a unique charm that you won't find anywhere else. Check out the famous dive bar, Zoestan, for cheap drinks and live music.
Take Advantage of Free Events
Tbilisi is a city that loves to party, and there are plenty of free events to attend throughout the year. From outdoor concerts to street festivals, there's always something going on. Keep an eye on local event listings and social media pages to find out what's happening. You might stumble upon a great party without spending a dime.
Consider a Pub Crawl
If you want to experience multiple bars and clubs in one night, consider joining a pub crawl. These tours are a great way to meet other travelers and locals while exploring the city's nightlife scene. Plus, many pub crawls offer discounted drinks and free shots at each stop. Check out Tbilisi Pub Crawl for a fun and affordable option.
Avoid Tourist Traps
As with any popular tourist destination, there are some bars and clubs in Tbilisi that are notorious for overcharging tourists. These places often have flashy signs and aggressive promoters trying to lure you in. Avoid these tourist traps and opt for more low-key spots instead. Ask locals for recommendations or do some research online to find the best hidden gems.
Drink Like a Local
Georgians love their wine, and you should too if you want to save money on drinks. Wine is often cheaper than beer or cocktails, and you can find a great bottle for as little as 10 GEL (less than $3 USD) at many bars and restaurants. Plus, Georgian wine is delicious and unique – you won't find anything quite like it anywhere else in the world.
Eat Before You Drink
If you're planning on drinking alcohol, make sure you eat a good meal beforehand. Not only will this help prevent a hangover, but it will also save you money. Many bars and clubs in Tbilisi don't serve food, and if they do, it can be expensive. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or street vendor before hitting the bars.
Use Public Transportation
Taxis in Tbilisi can be expensive, especially at night when demand is high. Instead of taking a taxi, consider using public transportation. The metro system is safe, reliable, and affordable – a single ride costs just 0.50 GEL (less than $0.20 USD). Plus, the metro runs until midnight on weekdays and 1am on weekends, so you can still get around even if you're out late.
Couchsurfing
If you're on a tight budget and looking to save money on accommodation, consider using Couchsurfing. This platform allows travelers to stay with locals for free, and it's a great way to meet new people and experience the local culture. Many Couchsurfing hosts are happy to show their guests around the city and take them to their favorite bars and clubs.
Go to the Open-Air Clubs
During the summer months, Tbilisi has a thriving open-air club scene. These clubs offer a unique experience, with DJs playing music under the stars and surrounded by nature. Plus, open-air clubs are often cheaper than indoor clubs, and some even offer free entry. Check out Bassiani, one of the most famous open-air clubs in Tbilisi, for a night to remember.
Visit the Wine Bars
As mentioned earlier, wine is a popular drink in Georgia, and there are plenty of wine bars in Tbilisi to choose from. These bars offer a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of Georgian wines to try. Plus, many wine bars have live music or other entertainment, making for a great night out. Check out Vino Underground or G.Vino for a unique wine bar experience.
Conclusion
Tbilisi is a city that knows how to party, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. By taking advantage of happy hour specials, exploring the Old Town, attending free events, and drinking like a local, you can save money on nightlife while still having a great experience. Just remember to avoid tourist traps, eat before you drink, use public transportation, and consider Couchsurfing to keep your costs down. Cheers to a fun and budget-friendly trip to Tbilisi!