Hotels near Tbilisi Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi)

Tbilisi's Old Town stretches between Freedom Square, the Mtkvari river, and Narikala Fortress - a tangle of cobbled lanes, hidden courtyards, and balconied wooden houses leaning into the streets. The neighbourhood reflects Tbilisi's mixed heritage with a mosque, synagogue, Armenian Apostolic church, Georgian Orthodox church, and Catholic church all within 500 metres of each other - a deliberate Soviet-era restoration to highlight the city's religious diversity.

The 5th-century Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. The Sioni Cathedral (11th century) holds the cross of St Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia. The wooden balcony houses on Betlemi Street and Asatiani Street are the most photographed; many are slowly collapsing and being restored. Allow 3 hours for a leisurely walk.

Pro Tip: Take the narrow staircases off Betlemi Street to find courtyards that look untouched since the 1900s. The hidden Betlemi Stairs Cafe at the top of the steps serves Georgian wine by the glass with one of the best views over the Old Town.