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Where to Shop in Tbilisi, Georgia

• 8 January, 2019

08 January, 2019

Tbilisi, Georgia

11 Geronti Kikodze Street

CHAOS Concept Store

4 Merab Kostava Street

22 Kote Afkhazi Street

8 Egnate Ninoshvili Street 0102

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14 Leo Kiacheli Street 0108

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Tbilisi: The Ultimate Guide

• Introduction

Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 5th century. Founded by King Vakhtang Gorgasali, Tbilisi quickly became a thriving crossroads for trade and commerce along the ancient Silk Road. Throughout its history, the city has been shaped by the various cultures and empires that have conquered and influenced it, including the Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, and Mongols. Despite numerous invasions and upheavals, Tbilisi has managed to retain its unique identity, which is evident in its diverse architecture, language, and customs.

Tbilisi is a captivating blend of old and new, where narrow cobblestone streets, traditional wooden balconies, and ancient landmarks exist alongside modern high-rises, trendy cafes, and contemporary art galleries. The city's charm lies in its eclectic mix of architectural styles, ranging from medieval fortresses to Art Nouveau buildings and Soviet-era structures. Tbilisi's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by its warm and welcoming people, who embrace both their rich history and forward-thinking spirit. Visitors to the city will find an enchanting destination that seamlessly combines the past and the present, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

Getting To And Around Tbilisi

Transportation options to tbilisi.

Reaching Tbilisi is convenient, with numerous transportation options available for travelers. The city's primary gateway, Tbilisi International Airport, connects to major European and Middle Eastern destinations through various airlines. For those who prefer traveling overland, there are train services linking Tbilisi to neighboring countries such as Armenia and Azerbaijan, offering a more leisurely and scenic journey. Additionally, international bus routes provide an affordable and comfortable means of reaching the city from nearby regions.

Navigating The City

Once in Tbilisi, visitors will find it easy to explore the city, thanks to its efficient and diverse transportation options. The Tbilisi Metro system is a fast and affordable means of traversing the city, with two lines covering many popular attractions and districts. Buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are also available, providing extensive coverage of the city and its suburbs. For those who prefer a more private mode of transport, taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, while ridesharing services like Bolt and Yandex offer a convenient alternative.

Walking is another excellent way to experience Tbilisi's charm, particularly in the compact city center. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere and unique architectural beauty. Whether exploring by foot or utilizing the public transport options, Tbilisi is a city that is easy to navigate and enjoy.

Neighborhoods And Districts

Overview of tbilisi's main neighborhoods.

Tbilisi is a city of diverse and captivating neighborhoods, each offering its own unique atmosphere and charm. From the historic Old Town to the bustling thoroughfare of Rustaveli Avenue, visitors will find an array of districts to explore, each with its own distinctive character.

Highlights Of Main Districts

• Old Town: The heart of Tbilisi, the Old Town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional wooden balconies, and beautifully restored buildings. Here, visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, and the colorful sulfur baths. With its lively atmosphere, the Old Town is also home to numerous cafes, bars, and galleries, making it a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment.
• Rustaveli Avenue: As Tbilisi's main artery, Rustaveli Avenue is lined with grand architecture, cultural institutions, and high-end shopping. Key attractions include the Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Theatre, and the stunning Moorish-style Opera House. This district is perfect for leisurely strolls, with plenty of cafes and restaurants to stop at along the way.
• Avlabari: Situated on the left bank of the Mtkvari River, Avlabari is a district steeped in history, offering stunning views of the Old Town and the iconic Holy Trinity Cathedral. With its narrow streets, picturesque churches, and traditional houses, Avlabari is an excellent destination for those looking to experience an authentic slice of Tbilisi life.
• Vake: As one of Tbilisi's most upscale and sophisticated neighborhoods, Vake is known for its tree-lined avenues, elegant architecture, and chic boutiques. The district features a mix of modern and Soviet-era buildings, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants that cater to the city's fashionable residents. Vake is also home to the beautiful Vake Park, a large green space perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.
• Vera: Known for its bohemian atmosphere, Vera is a trendy district that has become popular among artists, musicians, and young professionals. The neighborhood boasts a mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture, as well as an array of fashionable cafes, restaurants, and bars. Be sure to visit the Vera Park, a popular gathering spot for locals to relax and socialize.

Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique insight into Tbilisi's diverse culture and history, providing visitors with a captivating and varied experience as they explore the city.

Historical And Cultural Attractions

Top landmarks and sites.

Tbilisi is home to an array of impressive landmarks and sites that showcase its rich history and diverse cultural influences. Some of the top attractions include the Narikala Fortress, an ancient symbol of Tbilisi's defense that offers stunning panoramic views of the city, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a magnificent example of modern Georgian architecture and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Visitors should also explore the atmospheric sulfur baths in Abanotubani, which have been a central part of Tbilisi's culture for centuries.

Museums And Galleries

The city boasts numerous museums and galleries that display the unique art, history, and culture of Georgia. The Georgian National Museum, located on Rustaveli Avenue, houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including prehistoric remains, medieval treasures, and contemporary art. The Tbilisi History Museum, housed in a striking converted caravanserai, showcases the city's rich past through fascinating exhibits and displays. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse collection of local and international art housed in the Tbilisi Museum of Modern Art.

• Religious Sites

Tbilisi's religious sites provide a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage and architectural splendor. The Sioni Cathedral, named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem, is an important center of Georgian Orthodox worship and houses several significant religious relics. Another must-visit site is the Anchiskhati Basilica, the city's oldest surviving church, dating back to the 6th century. With its simple yet elegant design, this basilica is a testament to Georgia's early Christian history and architectural traditions.

Outdoor Activities And Parks

Mtatsminda park and funicular.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities and picturesque views, Tbilisi offers a range of options. Mtatsminda Park, situated atop Mtatsminda Mountain, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Accessible via the funicular railway, the park features an amusement park, restaurants, and stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi. The funicular ride itself is a memorable experience, as it ascends the steep slope of the mountain, providing breathtaking vistas of the city below.

Turtle Lake And Vake Park

Turtle Lake, nestled in the hills above Vake district, is a serene escape from the bustling city streets. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, or boat rides. Nearby Vake Park is one of Tbilisi's largest and most beautiful green spaces, featuring well-manicured lawns, playgrounds, and an open-air café. Both Turtle Lake and Vake Park offer a tranquil setting for relaxation and recreation.

Botanical Garden And Leghvtakhevi Canyon

The Tbilisi Botanical Garden, located within the verdant Leghvtakhevi Canyon, is a lush oasis that boasts a diverse collection of flora from around the world. Wander through the garden's winding pathways, discover picturesque waterfalls, and admire the wide variety of plants and trees. The surrounding Legvtakhevi Canyon offers a unique natural landscape within the city, with its striking rock formations, gushing river, and scenic walking trails. Together, the Botanical Garden and Leghvtakhevi Canyon provide an enchanting escape from urban life, where visitors can reconnect with nature in the heart of Tbilisi.

Food And Dining

Introduction to georgian cuisine.

Georgian cuisine is a delightful culinary experience that combines the flavors and traditions of the region's diverse cultural influences. Known for its rich and hearty dishes, Georgian food is characterized by the abundant use of fresh herbs, spices, and local ingredients. Tbilisi offers a wealth of dining options, from traditional family-run eateries to modern, upscale restaurants, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in Georgia's gastronomic delights.

Must-Try Dishes And Local Specialties

Some must-try dishes in Tbilisi include khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread that comes in various regional styles, and khinkali, juicy meat-filled dumplings that are a staple of Georgian cuisine. Other local specialties worth sampling are badrijani nigvzit, fried eggplant rolls stuffed with walnut paste, and shkmeruli, a succulent chicken dish cooked in a creamy garlic sauce. Don't forget to round off your meal with a glass of Georgian wine, as the country is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world.

Top Restaurants, Cafes, And Wine Bars In Tbilisi

Tbilisi boasts an impressive array of dining options that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. Some top restaurants include Barbarestan, where traditional Georgian recipes are given a modern twist, and Shavi Lomi, a popular eatery offering a fusion of local and international flavors. For a more casual dining experience, head to the bustling Dezerter Bazaar, where you can sample authentic street food and pick up fresh produce. Wine enthusiasts should visit Vino Underground, a cozy wine bar that offers an extensive selection of natural and organic Georgian wines.

No matter where you choose to dine in Tbilisi, you're sure to be treated to a memorable and delicious culinary experience that showcases the best of Georgian cuisine.

Nightlife And Entertainment

Bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Tbilisi's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of options for visitors looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing. From laid-back bars and stylish cocktail lounges to pulsating nightclubs, there's something to suit everyone's taste. Live music lovers can find a variety of venues showcasing local and international acts, including the Tbilisi Concert Hall and the Mtkvarze club, which offers stunning views of the river. For a more alternative vibe, be sure to visit Fabrika, a creative hub housed in a former Soviet sewing factory, featuring bars, restaurants, and live performances.

• Traditional Georgian Performances

For a taste of Georgia's rich cultural heritage, visitors should attend a traditional Georgian performance. The Georgian National Ballet, also known as Sukhishvili, offers mesmerizing displays of folk dancing and music, while the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre hosts classical performances in a stunning historical setting. Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre is another cultural gem, showcasing enchanting puppet shows that have gained international acclaim.

Festivals And Annual Events

Tbilisi hosts a variety of annual events and festivals that celebrate its diverse culture and artistic scene. Tbilisi Open Air, held in the summer months, is a major music festival that attracts local and international acts across various genres. The Tbilisi International Film Festival, held in the fall, showcases a selection of contemporary cinema from around the world, with a special focus on regional filmmakers. Additionally, Tbilisoba, a lively city-wide celebration in October, honors the city's rich history and traditions with parades, open-air concerts, and various cultural events.

Tbilisi's dynamic nightlife and entertainment scene, combined with its rich cultural offerings, provide visitors with a myriad of options for an unforgettable experience in Georgia's vibrant capital.

Shopping And Souvenirs

Local markets and bazaars.

Tbilisi's bustling markets and bazaars offer a unique shopping experience, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase authentic Georgian goods and mingle with the locals. The Dry Bridge Market is a popular destination for those seeking antiques, vintage items, and Soviet-era memorabilia. Dezerter Bazaar, the city's largest and most vibrant food market, is not only an excellent place to sample local produce, but also a fascinating glimpse into Georgian daily life.

Handicrafts, Fashion, And Unique Finds

Georgian handicrafts make for distinctive souvenirs that showcase the country's rich artisanal traditions. Visitors should look for items such as hand-carved wooden trinkets, traditional pottery, and colorful enamel jewelry. Tbilisi is also gaining recognition for its emerging fashion scene, with local designers offering a mix of traditional and contemporary clothing and accessories. For a unique shopping experience, visit Chaos Concept Store or Flying Painter, both of which showcase the works of talented Georgian designers.

Shopping Districts And Malls

For a more conventional shopping experience, Tbilisi offers a range of shopping districts and malls catering to various tastes and budgets. Rustaveli Avenue and Chavchavadze Avenue are the city's main shopping thoroughfares, lined with international brands and high-street retailers. For a more luxurious shopping experience, head to the Tbilisi Mall or the Galleria Tbilisi, both of which feature a mix of local and international brands, as well as dining and entertainment options.

Whether you're seeking authentic Georgian souvenirs, unique fashion finds, or a leisurely shopping experience, Tbilisi's diverse shopping scene is sure to satisfy every visitor's desires.

• Accommodation Options

Hotels, Hostels, And Guesthouses

Tbilisi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs and budget. From affordable hostels and guesthouses, such as Fabrika Hostel and Envoy Hostel, to mid-range hotels that provide comfortable stays and essential amenities, there is something for everyone. Many accommodations are conveniently located within walking distance of the city's main attractions, making it easy to explore Tbilisi on foot.

Boutique Hotels And Luxury Stays

For those seeking a more upscale experience, Tbilisi is home to a growing number of boutique hotels and luxury accommodations. These establishments often combine contemporary design with traditional Georgian elements, creating a unique and stylish atmosphere. Some popular options include the Rooms Hotel Tbilisi, Stamba Hotel, and Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi, which offer exceptional service and high-quality amenities to ensure a memorable stay.

• Unique Lodging Experiences

Tbilisi also offers a selection of unique lodging experiences for those who wish to stay in historic buildings or themed hotels. Hotel Kopala, for example, is situated in a renovated 19th-century building that overlooks the Mtkvari River and offers stunning views of the old town. Another option is the Gallery Palace Hotel, housed in a beautifully restored building with a mix of Baroque and Rococo design elements. These one-of-a-kind accommodations provide visitors with a truly immersive experience, allowing them to fully appreciate the city's rich architectural heritage and distinctive charm.

With a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious boutique hotels, Tbilisi ensures that every traveler can find the perfect place to rest and recharge during their visit to Georgia's vibrant capital.

Day Trips From Tbilisi

Mtskheta, the ancient capital of georgia.

Just a short drive from Tbilisi, Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, offers visitors a journey back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the country's most important historical and religious monuments, such as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery, both of which showcase stunning examples of early Georgian architecture. A day trip to Mtskheta provides a fascinating insight into Georgia's rich cultural heritage and the significance of its early Christian history.

Kakheti Wine Region And Sighnaghi

A visit to Georgia would not be complete without exploring its renowned wine region, Kakheti. This picturesque area is dotted with vineyards, charming villages, and historic monasteries. The town of Sighnaghi, known as the "City of Love," is particularly worth visiting for its well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Alazani Valley. Wine enthusiasts can tour local wineries, participate in wine tastings, and learn about Georgia's unique winemaking methods, such as the traditional qvevri clay vessels.

• Davit Gareja Monastery Complex

Another must-see day trip destination is the Davit Gareja Monastery Complex, a remarkable collection of cave monasteries that date back to the 6th century. Located on the border of Georgia and Azerbaijan, this site offers an intriguing blend of history, religion, and striking natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the cave dwellings, admire the ancient frescoes, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding semi-desert landscape.

We would be delighted to assist you in organizing any of these day trips or further excursions throughout Georgia, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience. With our extensive knowledge and passion for this beautiful country, we are confident that your adventures beyond Tbilisi will be truly remarkable. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for any assistance or inquiries about your Georgian adventure.

Practical Information And Travel Tips

Best times to visit.

Georgia is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm and attractions. Spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit Tbilisi, as the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer can be quite hot, but it's perfect for beach trips along the Black Sea coast. Winter brings colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, turning the country into a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Safety And Local Customs

Tbilisi is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's always a good idea to exercise common sense and take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. In terms of local customs, Georgians are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of tradition. It's essential to show respect for their culture and beliefs, especially when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly and follow any posted guidelines or instructions from local guides.

Currency And Payment Methods

The official currency of Georgia is the Lari (GEL), and it's essential to have some cash on hand for small purchases, transportation, and tipping. While credit cards are widely accepted in Tbilisi, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, smaller businesses and rural areas may not accept card payments. It's a good idea to carry a mix of cash and cards for convenience. Currency exchange offices and ATMs are readily available throughout Tbilisi, making it easy to access local currency when needed.

Being well-informed about practical aspects of your trip, such as the best times to visit, safety precautions, and local currency, will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience as you explore the captivating city of Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia.

Tbilisi is a captivating city with a rich history and diverse culture, offering visitors a wealth of unforgettable experiences. From its ancient landmarks, such as Narikala Fortress and Sioni Cathedral, to its vibrant neighborhoods and lively markets, there's no shortage of fascinating sights and activities to enjoy. Food lovers will delight in the flavors of Georgian cuisine, while art enthusiasts can explore the city's many museums and galleries. With its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and day trips to nearby historical sites, Tbilisi truly has something for everyone.

We encourage you to immerse yourself in the wonders of Tbilisi and embrace the opportunity to explore and discover its unique charms. As you wander through its winding streets, sample local delicacies, and interact with its warm and welcoming people, you'll be captivated by the city's authentic spirit and unforgettable allure. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of Georgia, where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Table of Contents

• Getting to and Around Tbilisi
• Transportation Options to Tbilisi
• Navigating the City
• Neighborhoods and Districts
• Overview of Tbilisi's Main Neighborhoods
• Highlights of Main Districts
• Historical and Cultural Attractions
• Top Landmarks and Sites
• Museums and Galleries
• Outdoor Activities and Parks
• Mtatsminda Park and Funicular
• Turtle Lake and Vake Park
• Botanical Garden and Leghvtakhevi Canyon
• Food and Dining
• Introduction to Georgian Cuisine
• Must-Try Dishes and Local Specialties
• Top Restaurants, Cafes, and Wine Bars in Tbilisi
• Nightlife and Entertainment
• Bars, Clubs, and Live Music Venues
• Festivals and Annual Events
• Shopping and Souvenirs
• Local Markets and Bazaars
• Handicrafts, Fashion, and Unique Finds
• Shopping Districts and Malls
• Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
• Boutique Hotels and Luxury Stays
• Day Trips from Tbilisi
• Mtskheta, the Ancient Capital of Georgia
• Kakheti Wine Region and Sighnaghi
• Practical Information and Travel Tips
• Best Times to Visit
• Safety and Local Customs
• Currency and Payment Methods

Continue Exploring

• 6 Georgian Fashion Designers You...

6 Georgian Fashion Designers You Should Know

Besides picturesque landscapes, unique language, diverse cuisine and world-famous hospitality, Georgia is starting to attract the attention of fashion lovers and enthusiasts. With annual shows of Tbilisi Fashion Week and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week held twice a year, Georgian designers are reaching new heights of global popularity. So here’s the list of famous Georgian designers you need to know.

Demna gvasalia.

Now a creative director of Balenciaga , Demna Gvasalia graduated from Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp and moved to Paris afterward. In 2009, he supervised the teams at Maison Martin Margiela, and in 2013 he worked as a senior designer of women’s ready-to-wear clothing line of Louis Vuitton under Marc Jacobs. During this time, he started working on developing the ideas for Vetements , a brand famous for its youthful spirit, innovation and authenticity, where he eventually became a head designer.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXsu9h8AJwY/?hl=en&taken-by=kingdemna

https://www.instagram.com/p/BbXlwVsgIpK/?hl=en&taken-by=davidkomalondon

George Keburia

George is a self-taught designer born in 1990 in Tbilisi. He founded his eponymous label in 2010 and showcases feminine classiness and masculine elegance in his collections, with overflowing lines and minimal design. His debut collection brought him the award of ‘Best Newcomer’ at Tbilisi Fashion Week, and after two years he gained international recognition through his “Bird Nest” collection by winning the Community’s Choice Muuse x Vogue Talents Young Vision Award. Now focusing on his own label, George’s signature sunglasses are worn by Rihanna and Kortney Kardashian, while a dress from his Spring/Summer 2017 collection was requested by Lady Gaga.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb9mLWqBo8p/?hl=en&taken-by=georgekeburia

After graduating school in Tbilisi, Bukia was immediately offered a place at Tbilisi State Academy of Arts and graduated from the Fashion Design and Textile faculty. Her first fashion show, called “Mushroom,” held in Tbilisi in 2008, received high praise and she got invited to take part in Kiev Fashion Week of young designers in spring of 2009. Her collection was also presented at Central St. Martins College of Art and Design in 2008 and published in the issue of Oasis , a famous American fashion magazine. Bukia is known for using self-made prints in her collections. And for her Spring 2017 collection she used images of post-Soviet buildings and countryside landscapes in Georgia as prints on pantsuits, dresses and cropped jackets.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BZtXP6VA0AJ/?hl=en&taken-by=lako_bukia

MACH & MACH

Founded by sisters Gvantsa and Nina Macharashvili, the MACH & MACH brand is known for its experimental style, producing sequined, sparkly, and eccentric statement pieces. The sisters are set to build a brand for fashionable, strong women who are career driven but also know how to enjoy their lives. The very recent collection for Spring/Summer 2018 features a color palette of violet, dark-blue, red, and black. The pieces were accompanied by round and square bags with round steel handles and the designers’ footwear: boots, open-toe heels, and mule shoes.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba4mldQnPfC/?hl=en&taken-by=machandmach

After graduating from Istituto Marangoni and Accademia del Lusso, Anouki Areshidze launched her Tbilisi-based brand Anouki in 2013. The main idea of the brand is to be ‘very own’ for each consumer, offering fashionable and modern clothes and accessories. Her style is usually very casual and has recently started to add elegant details to her looks.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BbMA32LnN2G/?hl=en&taken-by=anouki

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Local insider – gabi's guide to georgia and the caucasus.

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A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Georgia

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The Most Underrated Countries to Visit in 2024

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Unique Eats and Ancient Wineries: Why You Need a Taste of Georgia in 2024

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The Best Street Style From Tbilisi Fashion Week

By Radhika Seth

The Georgian fashion industry may be smaller than many of its European counterparts, but it packs a big punch. The country’s reputation as an incubator for new talent is well deserved, with native creatives such as Demna Gvasalia and David Koma bursting on to the world stage over the past decade. So, when Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week spring/summer 2020 returned to the country’s capital of Tbilisi, editors, buyers and models alike were sure to make an appearance.

This season’s showcase has hosted designers in venues across the city, from the tubular Tbilisi Concert Hall to the expansive Vake Park. The official schedule included celebrity favourite Akà Prodiàshvili, grunge-influenced Blikvanger and minimalist Aleksandre Akhalkatsishvili. There was also the latest instalment of Mercedes-Benz’s How To series, which sees industry heavy-hitters learn a new skill in 24 hours.

Here, Vogue photographer Søren Jepsen captures all the action curbside.

© Søren Jepsen

By Joy Montgomery

By Alice Newbold

By Alexis Bennett

By Naomi Smart

5 Designers Leading Tbilisi’s Fashion Renaissance

What to look forward to at Tbilisi Fashion Week

• November 11, 2020
• Jihen Mzoughi

There’s Paris, New York, and Milan. It’s only a matter of time before Tbilisi joins the list as a fashion capital of its own. After Georgian designer Demna Gvasalia took the industry by storm with his innovative work at Vetements and Balenciaga, all eyes are turning to the nation’s budding fashion scene. 

And Gvasalia isn’t the only trailblazing designer to hail from the tight-knit Eastern European fashion community. 

That’s what stylist Gvantsa Jishkariani shed light on in 2018 through a stunning portrait of Tbilisi’s burgeoning scene. Jishkariani teamed up with photographer Daniel Adhami to showcase the works of everyone from Gola Damian, Tiko Paksa, and Nicolas Grigorian—each with a signature mark of their own. 

One thing for sure, Tbilisi is not short of talented designers, and they’re all paving their way forward with Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Tbilisi. 

The most awaited fashion event in Georgia, is coming back with its latest edition by launching a digital-only platform. And we’ve rounded up five designers we’re looking forward to seeing: 

Akà Prodiàshvili

  View this post on Instagram   AKAPRODIASHVILI SS21 @mbfashionweektbilisi @r_e_production @tornikeaivazishvili @ruskaosiashvili @makeupinstitutegeorgia @t.asabashvili @viktoria.gigiashvili @tekla_gogoladze @natalimodels @nini_gasishvili @liza_murv @lookmodelsmanagement A post shared by Akà Prodiàshvili (@aka.prodiashvili) on Oct 30, 2020 at 2:26am PDT

The designer is known for his colorful and flamboyant collections exploring queer culture. His work pushes the boundaries of masculinity using with the aesthetics of drag queens. Be sure to experience the duality of culture and identity in his SS21.

  View this post on Instagram   TAMRA @popxmandro in Tamra @mbfashionweektbilisi @tamra_official @tamraskateboards A post shared by TAMRA (@tamra_official) on Mar 23, 2020 at 5:12am PDT

Tamuna Karumidze focuses on exploring marginalized urban tribes through interdisciplinary design. The skate-inspired streetwear label is dedicated to a sustainable method of production, repurposing surplus fabrics and finishings, and using old duvets.

George Keburia

  View this post on Instagram   GEORGE KEBURIA CRUISE 2021 BY JAM PROJECT @JAMPROJECTAGENCY staring: @nuts.gh makeup: @nino__sopromadze hair: @mari_bagramiani @makeupinstitutegeorgia A post shared by ᴷᴱᴮᵁᴿᴵᴬ (@georgekeburia) on Jul 8, 2020 at 8:41am PDT

The self-taught designer likes to mix masculine elements and feminine classiness, with voluminous lines and a minimal design. His silhouettes are sharply constructed, elegant and edgy.

Lado Bokuchava

  View this post on Instagram   SS21 Lookbook A post shared by LADO BOKUCHAVA (@ladobokuchava) on Oct 6, 2020 at 11:21am PDT

The brand’s signature is a touch of 80s underground style mixed with contemporary design. Every collection is a mix of classic and urban style with futuristic details. The looks are multifunctional, consisting of detachable details.

  View this post on Instagram   JANASHIA SS21 Vid @fluorinne Model @qate1___ Style @tatajanashia Effects by @sandro.kozmanishvili Mua @makeupinstitutegeorgia @mbfashionweektbilisi A post shared by JANASHIA (@janashia_) on Oct 8, 2020 at 8:40am PDT

Gvantsa Janashia mixes some of her signature touches such as asymmetric and futuristic details, bustier and corsets into her collections. The materials she uses are mostly cotton and viscose in aim to push her work in an eco-friendly direction.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Tbilisi will run from November 19 to 22 mbfwtbilisi.online

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CITY GUIDES , GEORGIA · February 24, 2024 Last Updated on March 13, 2024

A GUIDE TO EXPLORING TBILISI, GEORGIA

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Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a country with a fascinating history and rich geographical and cultural diversity. Over centuries, it has witnessed the influence of the Byzantine and Mongol empires, leaving behind a unique architectural legacy reflected in its ancient churches, fortresses, and monuments.

With a deeply rooted cultural identity and a millennia-old winemaking tradition, Georgia stands out as a destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty with a rich historical heritage.

Tbilisi is the lively capital of Georgia and is home to over one-third of the country’s population. The city boasts a stunning valley location, picturesque Old Town, and diverse architecture. Additionally, Tbilisi is known for its excellent dining and drinking options, hipster culture, techno scene, and general cool vibe. As a result, it has gained a reputation as the most cosmopolitan city in the South Caucasus region.

Here is the ultimate guide to exploring Tbilisi and Georgia with tips, the best things to do, and places to stay.

Best Places To Stay In Tbilisi, Georgia

 The best area to stay and explore Tbilisi is Old Town due to its proximity to tourist attractions, restaurants, and bars. Here are nine of the best hotels to stay in Tbilisi, organized by luxury, mid-range, and budget options.

Luxury Tbilisi Hotels

• Tbilisi Marriott Hotel – Located on Rustaveli Avenue, this hotel is close to the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, Freedom Square, and St George Statue. The hotel has rooms which can accommodate up to four people.
• Rooms Hotel Tbilisi – The upscale boutique hotel has ten coffee shops, five onsite restaurants, free self-parking, and 110 individually furnished rooms.
• The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi – This luxury spa hotel offers premium rooms, deluxe twin rooms, club rooms and executive suites. The hotel offers guests the use of the onsite spa and has two onsite restaurants.

Mid-Range Tbilisi Hotels

• Courtyard by Marriott Tbilisi – Located in Freedom Square, this hotel is within walking distance of the St George Staue and the Georgian National Museum. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and an onsite spa.
• Best Western Tbilisi City Center – This hotel is located in Vake, a neighborhood in Tbilisi, close to the Galleria Tbilisi and Dry Bridge Market.
• Tbilisee Hotel – Within a ten-minute walk from St George Statue, Bridge of Peace, and Shardeni Street, this hotel is a great base for exploring the city. The hotel has rooms with balconies, junior rooms, and family rooms that can sleep up to five people.

Budget Tbilisi Hotels

• Ramada by Wyndham Tbilisi Old City – This hotel has 108 rooms, including family rooms, twin rooms, a king room, and three twin rooms. Located in Old Tbilisi, this hotel is in a great walkable area of the city. The hotel has an attached winery and a tasting room.
• Clocks Hotel Tbilisi – Complete with a rooftop terrace, this hotel is a great place to stay in the city. The hotel offers studio rooms, executive rooms, double rooms, and twin rooms, sleeping up to three people.
• Moxy Tbilisi – Located close to the Aerial Tramway and the Chreli Abano Sulphur Bath and Spa, this hotel is within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions. The hotel has two onsite restaurants and free wifi.

What To Do In Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital and largest city is a fascinating destination with a wide range of activities to enjoy. The city boasts a rich history and architecture; dedicating at least three full days to exploring it is a worthwhile experience.

Tbilisi offers a unique blend of the old and the new, with its narrow streets, charming old neighborhoods, and vibrant contemporary areas.

Here are 12 of the best things to do and see in Tbilisi.

• Narikala Fortress – This is the place where you can get the best view of Tbilisi from the top. The Tbilisi Cable Car is a nice alternative for those who are tired of ascending to the Narikala fortress and starting their exploration of the city of Tbilisi.
• Sulfur Baths of Old Tbilisi – Known for their healing thermal waters and tiled architecture.
• Juma Mosque
• Meidan Bazar – A lively antique market located near the sulfur baths.
• Walking in Old Tbilisi – Stroll through the picturesque streets of Asatiani, Arsena, and Ivane Machabeli and observe the balconies that characterize the city’s architecture.
• The Dry Bridge Market – An outdoor market known for the sale of antiques and artworks.
• Holy Trinity Cathedral – One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• Leaning Clock Tower – The iconic clock tower in Tbilisi is a structure with a unique clock position.
• Rike Park Concert Hall and the Bridge of Peace – A walk here is ideal for exploring modern architecture.
• The State Academy of Arts Museum
• Mother of Georgia – An aluminum statue that stands above the city from the top of Sololaki Hill.
• Wine Museum

Best Places To Eat In Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgian cuisine is delicious, and one of the most popular dishes is khachapuri, a bread filled with cheese and often topped with an egg. Other recommended dishes include khinkali, dumplings filled with meat and spices, lobio, a bean stew accompanied by bread, satsivi, meat accompanied by a walnut sauce, and pkhali, cold appetizers prepared with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Among traditional Georgian sweets, churchkhela holds a special place. This sweet is made from the juice of various fruits, which is boiled to form a thick substance, and then nuts are threaded onto a string and dipped into the fruit juice mixture. The diversity and authenticity of Georgian cuisine are sure to captivate your palate.

Tbilisi offers a wide variety of options for enjoying typical cuisine and exploring the cafés is a unique experience. Most of these establishments not only serve delicious pastries and coffees but also immerse you in the culture of traditional dishes. The unique architecture and designs of these cafés make having coffee more than just a break, it’s an opportunity to dive into the local atmosphere.

• Chaduna – It is one of the most popular places for breakfast. Their specialty is the Chizhi Bizhi, a dish of tender scrambled eggs in a delicious tomato and onion sauce, with Georgian cheese and fresh parsley on top.
• Café Littera
• Fabrika – A bar, restaurant, and hostel located in a former Soviet factory, known for its alternative and artistic atmosphere.
• Balcony No 12

Best Places To Drink In Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgia is the world’s first wine-producing nation, with a rich tradition dating back thousands of years. Viticulture and wine production have deep roots in Georgian culture, and the country has played a pivotal role in global wine history.

The ancient Georgian method of making wine in qvevris, large terracotta vessels buried underground, is unique and has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. For this reason, tasting Georgian wines is a must, especially those made from indigenous grape varieties.

Some places to enjoy great wine are:

• Wine Factory N1
• Tsamgala Wine Shop and Bar
• Vinissimo Wine Bar and Shop
• Vino Underground Tbilisi
• Wine Library
• Vino Wine Bar

The Best Day Trips From Tbilisi, Georgia

Some of the main attractions in Georgia can be visited as day trips from Tbilisi. For those planning to explore destinations beyond the capital, opting for a rental car or hiring a car with a driver Louis (WhatsApp +995 597 25 25 72) offers the utmost comfort.

Kazbegui and Gergety Trinity Church

Kazbegi, also known as Stepantsminda, is a mountainous region in northern Georgia that captivates travelers with the natural beauty of the stunning Caucasus Mountains. This day tour begins with a stop at the Ananuri Castle, a fortress on the shores of the Zhinvali Reservoir.

Finally, the visit concludes at one of the most beautiful monasteries in the country, the Gergety Trinity Church, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Caucasus. If you have time during the journey, the Hotel Rooms  has become a popular spot for dining or having a drink due to its panoramic view of the mountains and the monastery.

Kakheti and Sighnaghi

Georgia is renowned for its ancient winemaking tradition. Hence, the wine region of Kakheti is popular as it hosts numerous wineries and vineyards where visitors can have wine tastings and learn about local winemaking techniques.

Tours in Kakheti offer a comprehensive experience, ranging from wine tasting in vineyards to exploring the city of Sighnaghi and visiting the historic Monastery of Santa Nino, which is recognized for introducing Christianity to the region.

Best Tours To Take From Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is a great base and place to stay for a trip to Georgia. It is also easy to travel and take tours from Tbilisi to attractions outside of the city.

Alternatively, numerous companies arrange day tours in Old Town Tbilisi, and booking a day in advance is sufficient. These day tours will allow you to see the main Georgian attractions according to your interests and the duration of your trip.

Here are three of the best tours to take from Tbilisi.

• Explore the stunning mountain peaks and valleys of Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church on a day trip from the city . You can discover the slopes of Gudauri and the rich history of the Ananuri Fortress.
• Embark on a full-day tour from Tbilisi to explore some of Georgia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the ancient Jvari Monastery and the former capital of the Kingdom of Iberia, Mtskheta. You’ll also have the chance to explore the stunning Gudauri ski resort in the Caucasus Mountains and more.
• Explore the heart of Georgia in one day with a guided tour . Enjoy spectacular views of the Kazbeg peak range in the Caucasus Mountains, visit Trinity Church, and savor a traditional gourmet lunch at Fabrika Rooms restaurant.

How To Get To Tbilisi, Georgia

To enter Georgia, it is necessary to have a passport with a validity of at least six months and the address of your accommodation. Most nationalities do not require a visa for tourist purposes; it’s a matter of checking the requirements based on your passport. Here is a list of countries where Georgia has a visa-free regime .

Thanks to the country’s advantages, Georgia has recently become a popular destination for digital nomads. Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, serves as the primary entry point for those traveling by air.

Furthermore, traveling to Tbilisi from Armenia is popular either by train or by bus due to its proximity. Although the train option is favored for its Soviet-era charm, it is not highly recommended unless you have ample time, as the schedules are limited, and the journey takes approximately 12 hours. The South Caucasus Railway can be complex to navigate, so purchasing tickets directly at the station is advisable.

On the contrary, private cars or vans, known as marshrutka, are more popular due to their cost-effectiveness and a shorter travel duration of 6 hours. The company Confort 2012 provides the following options for traveling between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The cost of the trip is 50 GEL or 8000 AMD. For booking, it is possible to send a WhatsApp message to (+995514012224) with your name, phone number, and check-out time. Individual car options are also available.

Departure time from Yerevan (Kilikia Bus Station): 07:30, 08:30, 10:30, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00.

Departure time from Tbilisi (M. Avlabari St.): 07:30, 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00

Currency In Georgia

The official currency of Georgia is the Lari (GEL). Due to the increase in tourism, credit card payments are widely accepted in restaurants and businesses. However, when venturing outside the capital, it is advisable to exchange euros or dollars at any currency exchange to have cash, as card usage may be less common in rural areas.

Language In Georgia

The official language in Georgia is Georgian, which has its own unique and ancient alphabet. Although Georgian is the predominant language, the majority of people also speak English.  Despite the Soviet legacy, the influence of the Russian language is less pronounced due to historical tensions between the two countries.

Weather In Georgia

Situated in the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia experiences noticeable climatic variations throughout the year. Although spring and autumn are considered the ideal seasons to visit, it is a versatile destination that can be explored year-round.

Security And Safety In Georgia

Georgia is a very safe country, but due to the increase in tourism, minor scams and thefts can occur. It’s important to adhere to basic precautions, such as agreeing on the fare before taking a taxi or making a purchase at markets. Due to political tensions, it is advisable to avoid areas near the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

How To Dress In Georgia

Georgia has no specific dress code restrictions, especially for women. However, being a predominantly Christian country with many major tourist attractions, such as churches and monasteries, women should cover their heads with a scarf to enter these places.

Therefore, carrying a pashmina to cover the head when visiting these religious sites is recommended. In addition, it’s advisable to bring appropriate clothing based on the weather and season, as well as comfortable shoes.

How To Move Around Georgia

Walking is the best way to explore the city, but public transportation options, such as the metro , are available. Taxi apps like Bolt have become popular and efficient for exploring the city and its diverse corners. Another widely-used option to explore the city is the Hope On Hope Off sightseeing Tour in Tbilisi .

Tbilisi, Georgia Wrap Up

Tbilisi is a must-visit destination, whether on a day trip or a week-long vacation. I hope that this ultimate guide to Tbilisi, Georgia helps you find out everything you need to know about the city and country.

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Tbilisi or Georgia. If you have any questions or advice to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.

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Parent item expand the sub menu, tod’s unveils exhibit celebrating venetian craftsmanship, dream on: golden goose unveils haus of dreamers in marghera, italy, omar nobil on transforming design within reach from a retail store to a lifestyle brand, the future of tbilisi fashion week.

The event's creative director talks about a hub being built in the city center and rethinking fashion week as a cultural exchange event.

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LONDON —  This week, Tbilisi’s up-and-coming fashion designers would have been welcoming international guests to their hometown to unveil their fall 2020 collections in a new cultural center at the heart of the Georgian capital.

Given the coronavirus crisis, the event had to be canceled, leaving its organizers little time to come up with a digital alternative. The opening of the new center has been delayed as the pandemic put a halt to construction, while the local designers are being hit particularly hard.

Not only are they facing cancellations from retailers — just like many other brands around the world — they have no government support schemes to fall back on, unlike their peers in London, Milan, Paris, New York or Copenhagen.

Despite those challenges, Georgia’s designers — and other creatives — are refusing to admit defeat in the face of COVID-19.

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Tbilisi’s designers have been building momentum since the city’s fashion week debuted in 2015. The week started with 35 international guests and now hosts more than 100, including buyers from major retailers including Net-a-porter, which now stock some of the country’s talents including Matériel, Situationist, George Keburia, Ingorokva or Lado Bokuchava.

These designers, who tend to produce all of their collections in Georgia, still see the value in their local fashion week platform and in telling their stories on their home turf, so their vision is to keep Tbilisi Fashion Week alive, and to use it as a platform to highlight the country’s broader cultural and creative scenes.

The opening of the new cultural space — formerly a 290,000-square-foot Coca-Cola factory — might be delayed, but it is by no means canceled and, according to Sofia Tchkonia, creative director of Tbilisi Fashion Week, it will help to shape the future of the city’s creative industries.

Tchkonia believes the new cultural hub will offer the city’s young creatives the space and resources they need to thrive. She wants to use it to bring creatives from across all disciplines together — and more importantly open the country’s first fashion school there.

“I  had so much time to think about exactly what I want to do and how I want to do it. One thing which I’m certain: Georgia needs is a fashion school. Most designers are self-taught here and they need to be educated and to have contact with people from as many different countries, so it would have to be an international school,” she said.

In addition to the school, there could be a host of activities taking place within the space year-round, as well as the seasonal fashion shows.

“When Coca-Cola was moving out and I first saw the space, I thought ‘Let’s do a fashion week here,’ but I soon realized that we’d need to operate it year-round and the idea developed further, to creating an art, cultural and fashion center and have ateliers, galleries, cafés, libraries, pop-up shops and even the fashion school,” Tchkonia added.

By renting commercial space to retailers or restaurants, the space would be able to keep financing itself, according to Tchkonia, and it could also offer a solution to designers struggling to find studios big enough to rent in the center of town.

When it comes to the city’s fashion week, the aim is to streamline the schedule and look at the five-day event as a form of cultural exchange and a platform to introduce an international audience to Tbilisi, a city and culture that remains under the radar, despite its rich layers of history under Persian and Russian rule, and its diverse architecture, influenced by the Eastern Orthodox Church, art nouveau and Soviet modernism.

“It’s always been interesting for international guests to come to Georgia because they would have never normally come, not a lot of people hear about Tbilisi,” Tchkonia said.

“People who travel around to Paris or Milan want to see something different from us. Tbilisi is not your typical fashion week, it’s more about a cultural exchange and presenting social responsibility projects alongside young designers, talented artists and photographers. In this new space, we will be able to unite all of these different elements so that people can visit and see everything in one big space. We’ve got a lot to show, not just fashion,” she added, explaining that, for these reasons, a digital showcase would not work for Tbilisi Fashion Week.

Instead, Tchkonia is hoping to bring back the event in October, if international travel resumes, with a “quality over quantity” approach to the designers selected to present their collections, and an even bigger variety of cultural events.

“ Georgia is promoted through fashion so well, because more and more people are now reading about the country in terms of its fashion week and designers. It’s the perfect ambassador and I’m sure some day, the bigger institutions, including the government, will see it and start supporting the designers. In the meantime, we keep going.”

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Ivertubani – Tbilisi Tourism

Exploring Tbilisi’s trendy fashion boutiques

Are you a fashion enthusiast looking for unique pieces to add to your wardrobe? Look no further than Tbilisi, Georgia's capital city. Known for its vibrant culture and fashion scene, Tbilisi is home to a variety of trendy fashion boutiques that offer a mix of contemporary and traditional styles.

In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of Tbilisi's must-visit fashion boutiques, and what makes them stand out from the rest.

1. Materiel

Located in the heart of Tbilisi's old town, Materiel is a fashion boutique that offers a mix of modern and traditional styles. The boutique is known for its unique designs, which blend Georgian heritage with contemporary fashion trends.

One of Materiel's standout pieces is their "Tbilisi" t-shirt, which features the city's name in bold, block letters. This t-shirt has become a must-have for fashion enthusiasts visiting Tbilisi, and is a great way to show off your love for the city.

Materiel was founded in 2012 by the Georgian fashion designer Aleksandre Akhalkatsishvili. The brand has since become one of the most well-known and respected fashion labels in Georgia, and has gained international recognition for its innovative designs and high-quality materials.

In addition to their unique clothing designs, Materiel also offers a range of accessories, including statement jewelry and handbags. The boutique's interior is also worth noting, with its minimalist decor and sleek design.

If you're looking for high-end fashion, look no further than Dalood. This boutique offers a range of luxury clothing and accessories from some of the world's top designers.

One of Dalood's standout pieces is their collection of handbags, which are made from high-quality materials and feature unique designs. Whether you're looking for a classic leather tote or a statement clutch, you're sure to find something you love at Dalood.

Dalood was founded by the Georgian fashion designer Lado Bokuchava. The brand has since become known for its sophisticated and elegant designs, which have been worn by celebrities and fashion influencers around the world.

In addition to their handbags, Dalood also offers a range of clothing, including evening wear and outerwear. The boutique's interior is also worth noting, with its plush velvet seating and elegant decor.

For those who love vintage fashion, Lalo is a must-visit boutique. This shop offers a range of vintage clothing and accessories from different eras, including the 1920s, 1960s, and 1980s.

One of Lalo's standout pieces is their collection of vintage denim jackets, which are perfect for adding a touch of retro style to any outfit. The boutique also offers a range of vintage jewelry and accessories, including statement necklaces and oversized sunglasses.

Lalo was founded by the Georgian fashion designer Lali Chagelishvili. The brand has since become known for its unique and eclectic selection of vintage pieces, which have been worn by fashion influencers and celebrities around the world.

In addition to their vintage clothing and accessories, Lalo also offers a range of handcrafted jewelry and home decor items. The boutique's interior is also worth noting, with its vintage decor and cozy atmosphere.

4. Atelier Kikala

Atelier Kikala is a fashion boutique that specializes in traditional Georgian clothing. The boutique offers a range of handmade garments, including traditional Georgian dresses and coats.

One of Atelier Kikala's standout pieces is their collection of chokhas, which are traditional Georgian coats that date back to the 12th century. These coats are made from high-quality materials and feature intricate embroidery and detailing.

Atelier Kikala was founded by the Georgian fashion designer Nino Chubinishvili. The brand has since become known for its commitment to preserving Georgian cultural heritage through fashion.

In addition to their traditional Georgian clothing, Atelier Kikala also offers a range of handcrafted jewelry and accessories. The boutique's interior is also worth noting, with its traditional Georgian decor and cozy atmosphere.

Rooms is a multi-brand boutique that offers a range of contemporary clothing and accessories from both local and international designers. The boutique is known for its unique and eclectic selection of pieces, which range from casual streetwear to high-end fashion.

One of Rooms' standout pieces is their collection of statement t-shirts, which feature bold graphics and slogans. The boutique also offers a range of accessories, including jewelry and sunglasses, that are perfect for adding a touch of personality to any outfit.

Rooms was founded by the Georgian fashion designer George Keburia. The brand has since become known for its innovative and daring designs, which have been worn by fashion influencers and celebrities around the world.

In addition to their clothing and accessories, Rooms also offers a range of home decor items and art pieces. The boutique's interior is also worth noting, with its modern and minimalist decor.

Tips for Shopping in Tbilisi

Don't be afraid to haggle: In Tbilisi, it's common to haggle over prices, especially in markets and bazaars. If you're shopping in a boutique, however, it's best to stick to the listed price.

Bring cash: While many boutiques in Tbilisi accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to bring cash just in case.

Wear comfortable shoes: Tbilisi's old town can be quite hilly and uneven, so it's best to wear comfortable shoes when exploring the city's boutiques.

Take your time: Tbilisi's fashion scene is diverse and eclectic, so take your time when exploring the city's boutiques. You never know what unique piece you might find!

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or just looking for a unique souvenir to bring home, Tbilisi's fashion boutiques have something for everyone. From traditional Georgian clothing to high-end fashion, these boutiques offer a mix of styles that reflect the city's vibrant culture and history. So why not take a break from sightseeing and spend an afternoon exploring Tbilisi's trendy fashion boutiques? You never know what unique piece you might find!

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Wander-Lush

Georgia Packing List for Men & Women (All Seasons)

This Georgia packing list for women and men considers all seasons and regions – plus what you should bring for special activities such as hiking.

What to pack for a trip to Georgia and the Caucasus is a point of confusion for many travellers.

Georgia’s location (kinda Asia, kinda Europe) and terrain (high-altitude mountains plus low, steamy valleys and semi-deserts) makes the climate here unique and highly variable.

In addition, there’s a lot of mis-information out there about the dress code in Georgia, which throws up questions about what to pack for Tbilisi , Kutaisi , and other cities.

Having now travelled through most of Georgia and lived in Tbilisi through all four seasons , I think I’m in a good position to offer advice about what to bring.

The Georgia packing list I’ve come up with is designed for men and women, covers all seasons, and also considers specialty items you need for activities such as visiting the sulfur baths in Tbilisi or hiking in the Caucasus mountains .

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What kind of luggage to take to Georgia

Travelling as light as possible in Georgia and the Caucasus is always a good idea. If you’re flying into Tbilisi or Kutaisi with a budget airline such as WizzAir, there’s a good chance you’ll have carry-on luggage only.

Love stylish simplicity? Check out my top 24 minimalist backpacks for travel .

When you’re moving around using ground transport, you want something compact enough to squeeze under your seat or sit in the aisle of a marshrutka van. It’s possible to store luggage in Tbilisi if you’re going remote, but depending on your itinerary, it might be preferable just to carry everything with you.

We did both our 3-month ( winter / spring ) and 4-week (summer) trips around Georgia and the Caucasus with carry-on only. Now when I travel in Georgia, I always bring a small bag. If you can manage it, I recommend you do the same.

Tip: If you need to store luggage in Tbilisi, here are your options .

Related: 10 tips for packing like a minimalist .

• Backpack | Tbilisi is quite hilly , and roads and sidewalks across the country generally aren’t very well maintained. A lot of places still don’t have ramps or escalators, even in the bigger cities. This makes a backpack the most practical option. On my first trip to Georgia, I used a 45 litre backpack similar to this one. Ross has since inherited it and took it on our latest visit.
• Small suitcase | A couple of years ago, I switched out my backpack for a small rolling suitcase to give my neck and shoulders a break (I suffer from migraines). I’ve put my 55cm Samsonite Spinner through the ringer (dragging it through snow, across rocks, etc.!) and it’s still going strong. It’s spacious, but small enough to carry on to Ryan Air and Wizz Air (I know because I did it).
• Day pack | In addition to your main bag, you should bring a smaller bag to use as a day pack. If you plan on hiking (more on that later), a foldable day pack like this one would be ideal. I use an Anello rucksack to carry my laptop and camera in.
• Waterproof luggage cover | Not only is a luggage cover handy for the rain, it will also protect your bag from muck while you’re in transit. Marshrutka vans aren’t always clean (that’s putting it mildly!) – I’ve often had to stow my bag on top of an oily tyre or under a pile of suspicious-looking boxes. This spandex cover scrunches up into a ball when you’re not using it.
• Luggage tag | If you are checking in luggage (and even if you’re not), it’s a good idea to tag your bags. We split this set of silicone tags between the two of us and bring a few extras in case we lose one along the way.
• Luggage locks | If your bag has lots of outside pockets, wire locks like these can be looped around multiple zippers.
• Packing cubes | I use two cubes with my small suitcase – a big one that fits all my clothes rolled up, plus a smaller one for underwear and socks. This set comes with a free laundry bag.
• Canvas pouches | I use a set of small canvas pouches like these ones to keep electronics and my laptop cord organised. They weigh nothing and are incredibly handy to have.
• Transparent toiletries bag | I used to travel with two toiletries bags: A zip-lock for liquids, and a regular bag for everything else. Now I just put everything into one transparent pouch, which makes airport security a lot easier (and I no longer waste so much plastic). This clear bag is TSA-approved and fits a lot.

Georgia packing list essentials

• Power adapter | Power sockets in Georgia (and in Armenia and Azerbaijan) are type C/F with a 220 V voltage and 50 Hz frequency (standard across Europe, the UK, Asia and Australia). If you’re coming from outside of Europe, bring a universal adapter with USB ports with you.
• Headphones + splitter or | Long car/van journeys and overnight trains are part and parcel of the Caucasus travel experience. A headphone splitter comes in really handy for sharing audio with your travel buddy. If you have bluetooth headphones and your device is not dual audio enabled, you can use an adaptor such as this Avantree one .
• Water bottle | Tap water in potable in Tbilisi and most mountain regions are supplied with high-quality spring water. I love my 500mL insulated S’well water bottle . My partner carries a blender bottle like this one for making protein shakes on the go.
• Light cotton scarf or a buff | One thing I never, ever travel without is a lightweight cotton scarf like this one . I use mine for sun-protection, as a sleeping mask, as an air filter – you name it. A scarf comes in particularly handy in Georgia, where women need to cover their hair to enter Orthodox churches and mosques (more on that in the next section). For men, a buff will do. My partner swears by his.
• Hat | If you’re travelling to Georgia in summer, spring or autumn , you’ll definitely need a hat. This fold-up wide brim hat is rated to UPF 50.
• Rain jacket | Georgia is notorious for random downpours, especially in summer. It’s a good idea to carry a pack-down raincoat like this one .

What to wear in Georgia (women & men)

Everyone has their own core packing list. I’m not going to tell you how many pairs of knickers or how many t-shirts you need to bring – I’m sure you can figure that out for yourself!

Instead, I’m offering a series of clothes packing tips specific to Georgia’s climate, dress code, and the laundry situation.

Essential reading: The best time to visit Georgia – month by month comparison .

Understanding the dress code in Georgia

Georgia is pretty liberal when it comes to fashion. There are no hard and fast rules or a formal ‘Georgia dress code’ – but there are a couple of things to keep in mind when deciding what you’re going to wear in Tbilisi and beyond .

General city wear

My personal philosophy is to dress as locals do. This is both to be respectful, and to try and not stand out too much as a tourist. Overall, religion (Eastern Orthodoxy) has a strong presence in Georgian society and a huge influence over culture and social norms. For this reason, things tend to err on the conservative side.

In bigger cities such as Tbilisi and Kutaisi, women (especially younger generations) dress the same as in any European capital. Sleeveless tops and fitted-dresses are standard. Jeans are commonly worn in summer and winter, while older women usually wear ankle-length skirts.

It’s not typical to see very short shorts or skirts worn outside of beach areas in summer (in Batumi , it’s totally normal). It’s acceptable – but you might get some unwanted attention.

What to wear in rural areas

In smaller cities such as Gori and Telavi , villages, and more remote mountainous areas, a more conservative style of dress is the norm. For women, this means no short pants or skirts (sleeveless tops are fine).

In Pankisi Valley , for example, it’s not appropriate to wear shorts at all (even for men). This is a unique case, but it does go to show that dress codes are relevant in some areas.

Darker colours and neutrals are more common in rural areas, so keep this is mind if blending into the crowd is a priority.

Visiting churches & monasteries

There is a special dress code for churches , monasteries and convents and it’s normally strictly enforced (especially in small towns and rural areas). Women need to cover their shoulders, knees and hair, while men should also cover their shoulders and knees.

Some Orthodox sanctuaries including Alaverdi, Bodbe Monastery in Sighnaghi and Gergeti Trinity Church will not allow you to enter inside if you’re wearing shorts. This applies to both men and women. Having said that, most monasteries (but not all) provide free wrap-around ‘apron’ skirts at the front door.

Some less touristic churches will not allow men to use the apron skirts, so unless you’re wearing long pants, you’ll need to stay outside. This is rare, though.

In addition, women are required to cover their hair when entering an Orthodox church or a mosque, and to be wearing a skirt rather than pants inside churches and monasteries (an extra layer over the top of your pants will do). Again, headscarves and skirts are usually supplied up at the door.

I prefer to cover my hair with my own scarf for hygiene reasons – another reason I always carry a light cotton version with me.

Guesthouses & hostels

I want to add that most family run guesthouses and hostels in Georgia have common spaces. In the case of the former, you might be sharing a living area and kitchen with your host family. When deciding what to pack for relaxing and sleeping in, just remember that it should be something you don’t mind other people seeing you in.

Leggings for women or tracksuit pants for men are ideal. Personally, I always pack a few quick-dry exercise shirts for this exact purpose.

Most guesthouses and many hostels provide guests with rubber slippers, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own.

What to wear in Georgia in summer

• Light & loose | For women, long, light and loose pants will protect you from the sun and mosquitoes. I usually travel with one pair of full-length pants and one pair of three-quarter pants. Men should also opt for one pair of light, long pants or convertible pants as well as shorts.
• Quick-dry | Tumble dryers are not at all common in Georgia (I’ve never seen one); instead, everything is line-dried. Thus clothes made from natural fibres and fabrics that dry quickly are preferable. It’s notoriously difficult to find a laundromat in Tbilisi (hot tip, there’s one here ). Most guesthouses and hotels offer a laundry service.
• Sensible shoes | Tbilisi is hilly with cobbled streets in the Old Town area . I highly recommend bringing your ‘sensible shoes’ for the city, since you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking. Tevas or similar are perfect for women.
• Dressing up | It’s good to have one ‘fancy’ outfit for wearing out to Tbilisi’s wine bars and nice restaurants . I’m a huge fan of the Kosan Go Travel Dress.

What to wear in Georgia in winter

If you’re planning a winter trip (November through to March or April/May in the mountains), make sure your Georgia packing list includes these items at a minimum. There are lots of second-hand shops in Tbilisi if you find you need some extra layers.

• Waterproof shoes | Waterproof shoes with a proper grip are mandatory if you’re headed into the mountains (Kazbegi, Svaneti, Bakuriani etc. are all snowy by November/December). Snow in Tbilisi is very rare so waterproof gear isn’t necessary for a city trip. For women, a pair of lightweight boots like these is ideal.
• Base layers | When I was last in Tbilisi in winter, I wore a thermal undershirt and long-johns under my jeans. Bring a couple of sets to limit your washing days.
• Shell jacket | I recently invested in North Face Thermoball and I’m a total convert. It’s a more ethical alternative to down, and it packs up super small. Available for both women and men .
• Warm clothes for sleeping & relaxing | Many homes in Georgia are un-insulated so remember to bring warm clothes for bed and wearing around the house.
• Wool scarf | A proper scarf like this one (or this one for men) makes all the difference on a windy Tbilisi day.
• Other woollies | Warm socks, gloves, and a beanie are also recommended.

Tip: If you plan on skiing or snowboarding in Gudauri, I highly recommend hiring gear from Aviator Ski. English-speaking staff are friendly and professional, and all their gear is in good nick.

What to pack if you’re trekking in Georgia

• Hiking shoes | Open-toed hiking shoes or even good quality sneakers will do for shorter hikes, such as Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity. For anything more, you should bring proper hiking boots .
• Warm gear | It’s freezing in the mountains in winter, and it still gets chilly overnight in the summer months. Make sure you pack a lightweight fleece.
• Waterproof cover for your day pack | Transforms your day bag into an all-weather pack. We use this brand .
• Power bank or solar charger | Electricity can be scarce when you’re staying in smaller villages. I’ve never used a solar charger, but this one comes recommended.

Tip: Tents, sleeping bags, mats and other gear are available to hire from some national park offices in Georgia or from Camp Share .

Proper hiking clothing and shoes are expensive to buy in Georgia , so it’s best to bring your own from home. Steripens and other filtration devices are not typically required as most trekking areas have access to clean mountain spring water (do check in advance, though).

What to pack for overnight train travel

If you plan on travelling by overnight train between Tbilisi and Yerevan or Tbilisi and Baku or even on the long day trains to Zugdidi or Batumi, consider throwing in the following items to make your trip more comfortable.

• Biodegradable wet wipes | A must-have for the train ride and handy for travel in general. Try this convenient travel pack .
• Roll-up travel pillow | 1000 times better than an airplane pillow! I’ve brought my MyPillow on every trip I’ve taken since 2015. Also great if you have a sensitive neck or struggle with changing hotel pillows every night.
• Silk sleeping bag liner | These are super light-weight and always come in handy for overnight trips and at hostels. I carry mine everywhere.

For more gear recommendations, see my list of 25 train travel essentials .

What to pack for the Tbilisi sulfur baths

• Swimmers | Ladies – to avoid an awkward situation in the sulfur baths, it’s handy to have a bikini with you. Even in winter. Men can get away with wearing a pair of undies.
• Towel | You can hire a towel for a couple of dollars at the bathhouse, but if you don’t want to pay or you prefer to use your own, a lightweight pestemal will do the trick.
• Wet bag | Essential for carrying home your wet swimmers. When you’re not at the baths, use this one as a laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate.

Toiletries to pack for Georgia

In addition to your regular items, considering bringing the following.

• Solid shampoo bar | Keep it local with this organic version from Armenian brand Nairian, plus a GoTubb for easy storage.
• Bug spray | Mosquitoes are common in Tbilisi and rural areas during the summer months. These DEET wipes are perfect for travel.
• Moisturiser | If you’re travelling in winter or spring, I would definitely pack a tube of my favourite moisturiser. Tbilisi is very dry and my skins always get parched and cracked during the cooler months. Something like this Aveeno Daily Moisturiser is ideal.
• Hand sanitiser | Everyone’s new favourite travel accessory! It’s widely available in Georgia, but the low-cost brands smell really bad (you’d be forgiven for mistaking it for Chacha ). Here’s an organic version .

Pro tip: If you’re travelling with prescription medication, remember to keep it in its original packaging and carry a letter from your doctor if possible. Georgian immigration can be quite strict on this point.

Handy things to pack for Georgia

• Travel corkscrew + wine stopper | This is the birthplace of vino after all.
• Wine bottle protectors | Great if you want to bring a few bottles home in your checked luggage.
• Travel clothesline | No tumble dryers, remember?
• Tide To Go pen | I always carry one for emergencies.
• USB stick | For printing off visas or boarding passes.
• Memory card case | For storing camera memory cards or mobile phone sim cards when you’re not using them. Here’s how to buy a Georgian sim card in Tbilisi .
• Sealer clip & a few reusable silicone bags | Handy for keeping food fresh and storing snacks like churchkhela .
• Over-the-door hook | I always carry my own just in case there’s no obvious place to hang my bath towel (pretty common in Georgia).

My photography gear

I use the same camera gear for every trip. At some point I’ll put together a proper run down of my set up – but for now, here is a quick summary.

• Camera | I swear by the Micro Four Thirds system for travel photography and I doubt I’ll ever stray. I currently shoot with an Olympus OM-D E-M10 .
• Lenses | I travel with three lenses. This 25mm prime lens is on my camera 90% of the time. I also use a 45mm prime for low-light, portraits, markets, and anywhere else I want to be discrete. A wide lens like the 9mm-18mm I use is essential for capturing those gorgeous Caucasus mountains.
• Lens hood | I use this one on my 25mm lens.
• Micro SD cards | Bring a few more of these than you think you’ll need – Georgia is very photogenic!
• Lens cleaning pen | This one is ideal for travel.

My portable office setup

I work from the road so a portable office setup is essential. Here’s what mine looks like.

• Laptop stand | I love my ultra-slim, lightweight stand from Nexstand. It’s also great for propping the computer up in bed when you’re watching a movie!
• Keyboard | This Bluetooth keyboard is re-chargeable and weighs less than 200g.
• Mouse | A Bluetooth mouse completes the set.
• External hard drive | I carry two external hard drives with me when I travel so I always have a backup of my backup. Seagate is my preferred brand.

Anything to add to my Georgia packing list? Do you have any questions about what to wear in Georgia or what to bring with you? Let me know in the comments below.

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

10 Comments

Hello, I’m planning to visit Georgia and your blog is a great help, it’s like encyclopaedia of this beautiful country. I’m still unsure what clothes to wear as I don’t want to freeze. I’m planning to spend few days in Kutaisi and then head to Tbilisi, I think half of my time I’ll spend in the city, and the other time in day tours (Martvili, Okatse & Prometheus/ Kazbegi and Gudauri/ Wine tasting in Kakheti). I’m comming from Baltic region, so I’m kinda used to the cold weather. What clothes would you recommend to bring for the end of March-beginning of April?

Hi Raminta, thanks for your comment and the kind words!

March-April can still be chilly, and one thing to note is that Kutaisi and the Martvili area is much more humid than what you might be used to in the Baltics, thus it feels colder. I was recently in Vilnius and was warmer there in cold and snow than I am in Kutaisi, due to the humidity. For Gudauri you will definitely need some warm layers. I would go with a waterproof jacket, and your usual winter accessories that are small and easy to carry (hat, gloves, etc).

Hey, how did you do laundry when travelling for a few weeks with little luggage?

Hi Miruna – I usually choose an Airbnb with a washer. There are a couple of coin laundries in Tbilisi now, and many guesthouses offer a laundry service too.

Thank You for all your detailed info. Excellent detailed information to refer to and use. Cant wait to be there after reading your posts.

I’m going to Georgia next Tuesday for 20 days. I’ve found the information you’ve provided to be excellent. I’m an experienced traveller but, even so, your website and info has been fantastic. I’m in Georgia for the UEFA Under 21 Finals and I’ll be staying and travelling between Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi. I’m really looking forward to it.

Excellent Alan! Thanks so much for your feedback. I have tickets to one of the games in Kutaisi – very excited to see the new stadium. Safe travels and enjoy!

I’m going tomorrow so THANK U!

Great list! Your guide is definitely very helpful for packing for Georgia. Thanks and keep sharing.

Thank you for the packing tips for Georgia.

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We Found 15 Travel-ready Styles That Won’t Wrinkle During Your Flight — Up to 62% Off

Browse popular brands like Skims, Reformation, and Steve Madden.

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Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

When it comes to picking the perfect travel day outfit, you likely prioritize comfort over style. But who said the two can’t coexist? I’m a sucker for a cute but cozy outfit that still looks good even after hours in the back of a plane. 

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Georgia footballers protest against Tbilisi’s ‘foreign influence’ bill

Captain of national men’s team among those posting apparently coordinated social media messages

Leading players in Georgia’s national men’s football team have backed mass protests sparked by a “foreign influence” bill criticised for mirroring a repressive Russian law.

Riot police have clashed in recent nights with large rallies of people protesting outside the parliament building in Tbilisi against the bill , which is viewed in Brussels as a threat to future EU membership.

Jaba Kankava , the captain of Georgia’s national football team, which recently qualified for Euro 2024, its first major tournament, posted a picture on Instagram of two protesters staring down riot police on Tuesday night, adding: “Fuck Russia.”

A host of other national team players, including Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a winger for Italy’s Serie A club Napoli, and Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is a goalkeeper for Valencia in Spain’s La Liga, also posted what appeared to be coordinated messages on social media.

They wrote: “Georgia’s path is to Europe . The European way unites us!! Forward to Europe!! Peace to Georgia.”

David Kezerashvili, who served as Georgia’s defence minister at the time of the 2008 Russian invasion of the country, said: “The footballers’ decision to back the protests may prove to be a decisive intervention, coming just weeks after millions took to the streets to celebrate their Euro 2024 qualification.

“People understand the economic benefits and freedoms that membership of the European Union would bring to a country like Georgia, and they resent those aspirations being sabotaged. Seeing police in balaclavas take violent action against well-meaning protesters has dark echoes of Georgia’s Soviet past. This is driving a wedge between Tbilisi and Brussels.”

Under a draft bill introduced to parliament on Monday, organisations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad will be required to register as being agents of foreign influence, with fines for those who do not comply.

The law has been likened to Russian legislation under which journalists, politicians, rights organisations, environmental groups, LGBTQ support networks and others have been obliged to label themselves as “foreign agents” when they publish.

The legislation has provoked violence inside and outside the parliament building. Footage broadcast on Monday on Georgian television showed Mamuka Mdinaradze, the leader of the ruling Georgian Dream party’s parliamentary faction and a driving force behind the bill, being punched in the face by the opposition MP Aleko Elisashvili while speaking from the dispatch box.

Crowds of about 10,000 people protested outside the parliament building in Tbilisi on Monday and Tuesday night, when they clashed with riot police.

Despite the protests, 83 out of 150 deputies voted in favour of the bill on Wednesday, which must pass two more readings before becoming law. The ruling Georgian Dream party says the legislation is needed to promote transparency and combat “pseudo-liberal values” imposed from abroad.

Georgia’s prime minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, said he would not back down.

He said: “As for the west, the opposition talked about this as if we consider the west as an enemy. I will repeat once again that transparency is not a criterion for distinguishing between enemies and friends. First of all, of course, a friend should be transparent, this is the friends’ responsibility before the Georgian public.”

A spokesperson for the European Commission condemned the legislation as a risk to media and civil society freedoms. The EU gave Georgia candidate status in December.

The commission spokesperson said: “This is a very concerning development and the final adoption of this legislation would negatively impact Georgia’s progress on its EU path. This law is not in line with EU core norms and values.”

The Georgian president, Salome Zurabishvili, who is at loggerheads with the ruling party, has offered her support to the protesters, denouncing the proposed bill as “a Russian strategy of destabilisation”.

A similar bill targeting “foreign agents” was dropped last year after two nights of mass protests.

The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, said that Russia had nothing to do with the foreign agents bill, which he described as “normal practice” for a government that wished to “protect themselves from outside influence”.

He claimed that the law was being used to “provoke anti-Russian sentiments” and that “it is unlikely that these impulses are being fed from within Georgia”.

“They’re probably coming from the outside,” he said.

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The 10 Best Things We Saw at Salone del Mobile

From an exhibition in a 1940s-era Modernist house to a blood-red sofa, the highlights of Milan’s annual design fair.

A Mario Bellini for Tacchini Le Mura sofa remade in Gucci’s new signature shade of red, Ancora Rosso, on view in the fashion brand’s Milan flagship store. Credit... Courtesy of Gucci

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By Monica Khemsurov

• April 19, 2024

The annual Salone del Mobile furniture fair has always been big — it’s the event of the year for the international design world, drawing hundreds of thousands of makers, curators, editors and buyers to Milan each April for a week’s worth of inspiration, shop talk and aperitivi. Even more so than fashion week, the fair consumes the city. But this year’s edition seemed to buzz with a new level of excitement, with more people from outside the design industry joining the throngs and hourlong lines forming outside events like the launch of the French luxury brand Hermès’s interiors collection, the annual installation by the Milanese architecture firm Dimorestudio and the satellite fair Alcova’s takeover of the Modernist architect Osvaldo Borsani’s former home — this despite the house being a 45-minute drive north of the city center. Luckily, there were so many interesting presentations on view that braving the crowds felt well worth it. Here, 10 standouts.

Formafantasma’s Floral Chairs and Futuristic Lights

One of the most talked-about openings of the week was the Milan-based design duo Formafantasma’s solo show at the Fondazione ICA Milano, for which the pair — Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin — drew on memories of their childhood homes in Italy to create surprising hybrid chairs and lamps that pair steel armatures with colorful wood, frilly fabrics and hand-painted or embroidered floral motifs. The aesthetic was institutional furniture meets Italian grandma’s house. Formafantasma also debuted a new series of utilitarian but delicate lights for Flos made from LED strips enclosed in thick glass panels.

A New Furniture Line From Dimorestudio

Once people began posting photos on social media of the launch of Interni Venosta, a new furniture brand from Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci, the founders of Dimorestudio, the line’s exhibition quickly became a must-see — partly for its pairing of bold minimalist forms with luxe materials like walnut and steel, and partly because it was presented in an extremely photogenic local plaster workshop. The brand’s name pays homage to the cult Italian designer Carla Venosta, who created modernist furniture and interiors in the 1970s and ’80s.

Gucci’s Blood-Red Design Icons

Having recently redone part of Gucci’s Milan flagship store entirely in a deep oxblood red, the brand’s creative director, Sabato De Sarno, partnered with five Italian design companies to reimagine some of their classic pieces in the house’s new signature color, Ancora Rosso. The lineup, installed for the week on the store’s second floor — inside a lime-green carpet maze created by the Spanish designer Guillermo Santomà — included Gae Aulenti and Piero Castiglioni’s Parola lamp, Nanda Vigo’s Storet cabinet, Mario Bellini’s Le Mura sofa, Tobia Scarpa’s Opatchi vase and a new rug created by Nicolò Castellini Baldissera based on motifs by his great-grandfather Piero Portaluppi. Each item will be produced in a limited edition of 100.

A Takeover of a Modernist Architect’s Fomer Home

Since its inception in 2018, the Alcova satellite fair has become the place to discover new talent during Salone. This year, it occupied two historic mansions outside the city: the 19th-century Villa Balgatti Valsecchi and the 1945 Villa Borsani. The latter venue, the former residence of the architect Osvaldo Borsani, was the hotter ticket and featured pieces like a two-tone wood room divider by Anthony Guerrée for Atelier de Troupe, a family of marble tables with columnar legs by Agglomerati and Tino Seubert and a suite of galvanized-steel office furniture by the Russian designer Supaform, which was exhibited in Borsani’s onetime home office.

A Dispatch From the Americas

Hidden down a long, dark hallway directly next door to Hermès’s big Salone presentation was “Origen,” a comparatively understated show of works by four up-and-coming Latin American(-ish) designers for the New York- and Mexico City-based Unno Gallery. Among the pieces on display were brown lacquer desks and shelves with reverse-waterfall legs by Mark Grattan, an American designer who was based in Mexico City for many years, and a series of glittering stools and mirrors, covered in crushed iridescent seashells, by the Colombian designer Andrea Vargas Dieppa (a co-founder of the 2010s-era shoe brand Dieppa Restrepo).

Unusual Lamps Commissioned by Loewe

For its eighth and biggest Salone exhibition, the Spanish luxury house Loewe commissioned 24 artists and designers from around the world to create lamps in materials and styles of their own choosing. The results range from the futuristic (a tangle of neon tubes by the London-based artist Cerith Wyn Evans) to the eccentric (a miniature storefront with metal shutters and a pull cord by the London-based painter Alvaro Barrington) to the rustic (an ancient-looking ceramic vessel punched with holes, and lit from within, by the Japanese artist Kazunori Hamana).

Interesting Beds From a Georgian Design Duo

Eye-catching beds are a true rarity in the design world, which is why there was so much interest this week in an exhibition of six of them, all produced by the Tbilisi, Georgia-based firm Rooms Studio — founded by Nata Janberidze and Keti Toloraia — in materials ranging from chunky wood to thin steel tubes with steer-head finials. The design duo were inspired to focus on the oft-overlooked category by their struggles to source great bed frames for their own interiors projects.

Dolce & Gabbana’s Next Generation of Design Talents

The Italian fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana’s second annual Gen D project reflects the company’s commitment to supporting young talent both within and beyond the fashion world. For the ambitious group exhibition, the house enlisted the Italian curator Federica Sala to pair 10 international designers with sixteen Italian craft workshops. Among the resulting pieces are interesting stylistic and cultural mash-ups like the Chinese designer Jie Wu’s wild, squiggly vessels, which feature Chinese and Sicilian good-luck motifs and are coated in classical Venetian enamel.

Close-up Photographs of Modernist Interiors

In a simple but memorable exhibition mounted in one of the tunnels that flanks Milan’s central train station, the Czech writer, curator and photographer Adam Štěch — along with his colleagues Matěj Činčera and Jan Kloss — displayed over 3,000 photos of details from famed Modernist homes and buildings. In shooting the photos, which he’s shared on his Instagram account, @okolo_architecture , over the years, Štěch focused on interiors and furnishings that were custom-made for each project by their architects. It was easy to get lost in the show, poring over doorknobs, stair rails and lamps from around the world.

A Circular Ping-Pong Table

The exhibition “Design Duo Double Feature,” also curated by Federica Sala, was a thoughtful example of a materials brand commissioning designers to show off the potential of its products: The six pieces in the show were all made from the acrylic-resin surface material Fenix and designed by up-and-coming Italian studios like Cara \ Davide, Mist-O and Zanellato/Bortotto. A standout was the Match table by Martinelli Venezia, a circular two-tone Ping-Pong table whose “net” is formed from a tenting of its top.

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• 10 Things That Delighted Us Last Week: From Oil Sprayers to a Retro Hair Dryer

We write about hundreds of products every week. Here, in our version of the Sunday circular, we’ve plucked some of our recent favorites: expert-recommended essentials, life-changing stuff you didn’t know you needed, newly launched gizmos, and very good deals we uncovered while trawling the vast online-shopping universe — including the body lotion that Smokey Robinson can’t live without, our brand-new best-in-class kitchen shears, and a versatile backpack that pulls double duty as a work tote and a diaper bag.

Smokey Robinson’s favorite body lotion

Among the items that singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson told us he can’t live without is this nourishing body lotion from Bulldog Skincare that’s formulated with soothing aloe vera. “It is very, very good for my skin. I found that my skin is clear and what have you,” says Robinson. The entire line is formulated specifically for men and includes a variety of products including shower soap and beard oil.

The very best kitchen shears

Before she crowned these WÜSTHOF kitchen shears the very best in our brand-new Best in Class guide , Strategist senior editor Kiki Aranita put a dozen pairs to some not-so-conventional tests: snipping dead twigs, slicing open plastic planter pots, cutting through flat-iron steaks, and using them “to cut thick fabric, because why not,” she writes. This pair, which was also recommended by multiple pro chefs, came out on top because it is the most well made, easy to use, and versatile of the shears she’s tried.

The key to Todd Selby’s grill game

As grilling season approaches, author-photographer  Todd Selby has some slick advice: Get yourself one of the olive oil spray bottles he can’t live without. “I love grilling, and my favorite part is spraying olive oil all over the place — on the grill, on the veggies, on the fish — and watching the flames leap around,” he says. “If you don’t want your stuff to stick to the grill, you’ve got to use oil on everything.” Plus, he adds, “The spray bottles have a nice matte sheen to them, so they kind of look fancy.”

An expensive-looking planter that’s cheap enough to buy in bulk

Though Strategist contributor Sarah Leon “had a dream of basil, rosemary, thyme, and lavender scattered throughout the garden, like a Tuscan chef’s garden, but in Brooklyn,” she couldn’t foot the bill to build it until she found these concrete-esque planters at Walmart. They look deceivingly hefty but are actually lightweight, have a hole with a plug for drainage, and are so affordable that Leon ultimately bought eight of them. But they sell out fast, so take Leon’s advice: “I’d suggest stocking up now, in bulk, before they sell out again — and I have to say, I told you so.”

Ariana Madix’s recovery slides

If you didn’t catch our recent roundup of comfortable shoes that celebrities love , here’s the newest addition to the mix: Ariana Madix ’s favorite (and only) recovery slides. “When I was on Dancing With the Stars , my feet were just in the worst condition,” she says. Luckily, the costume department gifted her these Oofos sandals, which she says became “the only shoes I could actually walk in because my feet were so beat-up.”

Baby bottles that help stop spit-ups …

Though Strategist contributor Sara Gaynes Levy acknowledges that “the best baby bottle is one that your kid happily takes,” there’s no denying “there are still qualities that separate the good from the great.” In our new guide to the best baby bottles , she named this anti-colic bottle the very best because it’s easy to hold, comes in multiple sizes, and stacks neatly in diaper bags. “I found that using them meant that my second and third kids spit up way less than my first did,” Gaynes adds. “I know I can’t prove it was the bottles, but I really do think they helped!”

… And a sleek bag that works for work or diapers

When Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo was looking for her ideal diaper bag , her long list of criteria included being easy to carry and wipe clean, looking good with every outfit, and being just as handy for carrying a laptop as baby stuff. She tried three other contenders before naming this stylish LeSportsac, which doubles as a tote and a backpack, as her favorite. “It’s more than just a work bag, or a diaper bag, or an alternative to a purse for sightseeing, and I plan on carrying it long after my son is out of diapers and carrying his own backpack,” she writes.

One writer’s secret to shampoo-commercial-worthy hair

We’re here to let you in on Strategist contributor Kelsey Mulvey’s best-kept beauty secret, which she generously shared with us this week. To achieve a bouncy blowout each time she washes her hair, Mulvey uses Velcro rollers and dries her strands with the Conair Bonnet Hair Dryer , which, she writes, “is exactly like the space-age domes that are synonymous with 1960s beauty salons.” Though she now owns a Dyson Supersonic , she reports, “Nothing gets my hair looking as good — even shampoo-commercial-worthy — as the Conair Bonnet Hair Dryer.”

Special-edition Bluey figurines for Heelers fans

If you haven’t caught up on the latest Bluey buzz, the latest episode, “ The Sign ,” has fans wondering if the end of the beloved children’s show is near. And though we might not know what lies ahead for the Heeler family, these action figures based on the plot of “The Sign“ “would make a great addition to any fan’s existing Bluey toy collection,” writes Corsillo in our latest installment of Don’t Dillydally . The set includes the bride and groom, Frisky and Uncle Rad, as well as flower girls Bingo and Bluey.

The motivational water bottle that Rob Lowe calls his “baby”

In the eight years that we’ve been interviewing celebrities for our “ What I Can’t Live Without ” column, we’ve heard all about different kinds of water bottles, from classic S’wells to trendy Owalas . However, in rounding up all the water bottles that have been recommended on the Strategist , we found that a number of famous folks, including Rob Lowe, are enamored by motivational water bottles that encourage them to always be hydrating. “This is my baby. On set, they’ll be like, ‘Where’s the baby?’” he says. But he finds it actually gets the job done: “I’ll go hours and hours (without drinking water) and then be like, Oh, damn it. And then I’ll just go glug, glug, glug, glug, glug to catch up.”

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Here’s your fashion horoscope for what to wear this Taurus season

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We find ourselves in that time of year dedicated to the most sensuous and worldly of the earth signs — that is, Taurus season. We are so grateful for our baby bulls, because they remind us that food, drink, sex and money exist to be experienced in all their glory. And what better way to indulge in all these things than by traveling? Liberate your carefully selected and impeccably preserved vintage designer purse strings (we’re talking Taurus, after all) and go somewhere.

The ritual of travel is as visceral as it is spiritual. It’s the sweat collecting under your collar while you speed-walk to your gate (just to make sure it’s there, right?) as much as it is a 4 a.m. kiss on a starry beach accessible only by motorcycle. And the ritual before the ritual — packing — becomes a delicate, fraught dance of selection, a personal curatorial Everest that requires the traveler to dream, first and foremost, of how rainy the breeze might be on the way up the Eiffel Tower, how they might dress for both a rooftop dinner and a volcanic hike just outside San Salvador, if they’ll long for a stiletto boot at the Beijing opera or be too entranced by the show to care that they brought the flats instead. The careful balance of environmental factors in wardrobe selection, however, comes secondary to the crown jewel of functionality: the all-purpose travel jacket .

You could subscribe to holiday gift-giving. Or you can move different like Goth Shakira

The digital director is known for their sharp observations of the world around us and worlds beyond us. The rest of us just want to follow along.

Dec. 4, 2023

Trip jacket selection is an art and a science, best done elegantly, with attention paid to form, function, aesthetics and viability — as a pillow when folded into fourths or eighths on a long-haul flight. It should be able to take you to a museum and a visit to the botanical gardens with street food in hand on the same day. For this, may I suggest pet-tree-kor’s Green Helicteres Isora Jacket . The Shanghai-based imprint’s name is a nod to “petrichor,” a functionally and mystically perfect word that exists solely to describe the divine perfume that greets your nostrils after a rain (a smell that, allegedly, humans can detect more astutely than a shark’s nose can detect blood).

This garment, rendered in a tweed blend with a gorgeously mossy sheen, is both architectural in its structure and fluid in its silhouette. It looks at once inviting and familiar — almost like your most gallant grandfather’s jacket from the days he used to go out dancing with your grandma — and polished and elegant. It wouldn’t look out of place in a cozy diner on a rainy night in San Francisco’s Chinatown or on a dewy morning at the Rhode Island beach house of your friend with generational wealth. The shade of the jacket is an oft-underrated neutral, pairing nicely with virtually any other piece in your suitcase, maybe even amethyst or royal blue too. The Helicteres isora, the jacket’s namesake, is a vibrant plant from northern Oceania whose leaves dry in tawny-green curlicues, like nature’s fractals.

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April 14, 2022

And nature’s most esoteric fractal you shall be in your pet-tree-kor travel jacket, cruising through the liminal space of LAX on the way to your next adventure. Does your manic pixie dream girl complex fantasize about an ethereal-looking stranger mesmerized in reverie as they gaze upon the dapples of fluorescent Tom Bradley terminal lights reflecting off this sumptuously swamp-hued fabric? Mine too. For all the grounding and presence that resets our nervous systems, our earthly vessels would be naught without the dream of a shimmery green.

Goth Shakira is a digital conjurer based in Los Angeles.

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