A Day to Remember: Visiting Tbilisi from Yerevan

While planning my trip to Armenia, I discovered that the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, was only a few hours away by road. I had never been to Georgia before and the idea of visiting another country so easily was too tempting to pass up. I decided to join one of the tours in Tbilisi from Yerevan and to my delight, it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable and enriching parts of my entire journey.

Crossing the border was smooth, thanks to the well-organized process handled by the tour team. Our guide made sure we had everything in order and walked us through each step. The drive itself was incredibly scenic, passing through mountain passes, winding roads along rivers and canyons and quaint villages nestled in the hills. The changing landscapes were mesmerizing and the ride felt like a journey through layers of nature and history.

By the time we reached Tbilisi, I was already impressed. The city’s atmosphere was completely different from Yerevan – it was more colorful, eclectic and buzzing with life. There was a unique mix of European charm and Eastern character, where Soviet-era buildings, modern glass architecture and medieval stone churches all seemed to coexist in a fascinating balance.

Our guide led us through the winding streets of the old district, a part of the city rich with character. What stood out immediately was the diversity – churches, synagogues and mosques stood side by side, a powerful symbol of Tbilisi’s multiethnic and multireligious heritage. We learned about how these communities had lived together for centuries and it gave the city a depth I hadn’t expected.

We took the funicular up to Mtatsminda Park, which offered breathtaking views over the city and a fun, nostalgic atmosphere with its vintage amusement rides and tree-shaded walkways. Walking across the Peace Bridge, with its modern design arching over the Mtkvari River, felt like stepping into the city’s newer, more dynamic side. We also explored the Abanotubani district, home to the famous sulfur baths – the warm smell in the air, the domed brick roofs and the ancient feel of the area made it one of the most unique stops on the tour.

What I liked most about the tours from Yerevan was the perfect balance between guided sightseeing and free time. We had plenty of opportunities to try traditional Georgian dishes – the khachapuri was a must (and yes, I had more than one slice!) and I also tried khinkali, the dumplings filled with spiced meat and broth. The food was rich, flavorful and served with a level of warmth and hospitality that made the experience feel homey. There were moments to browse through artisan shops, pick up handcrafted souvenirs and enjoy the vibe of the city at our own pace without feeling rushed.

The group was small, which made the experience feel more intimate and flexible. Our guide was not only fluent in several languages, but also incredibly knowledgeable. They answered every question – from practical tips about currency to insights on local traditions – and offered suggestions on what to do during our free time. Their passion for the city was contagious and it felt like we were discovering Tbilisi with a friend, not just a guide.

Another thing I appreciated was how stress-free the entire experience was. Everything was arranged: transportation, timing, border procedures and even suggestions for meals and activities. For someone traveling solo or without much time to research, this tour was the perfect way to explore a new destination with ease.

If you’re already in Armenia and have a full day to spare, I highly recommend considering one of the tours in Tbilisi. It’s a great way to experience two countries in one trip and it adds variety, depth and new stories to your journey. I came back with great memories, beautiful photos and most of all, a newfound appreciation for Georgia – its people, its culture and its charm.

I’m already planning to return and next time, I want to spend more days discovering the regions beyond Tbilisi. But for now, I’m so grateful I took that first step across the border. It was more than a day trip – it was a true highlight of my Caucasus adventure.