How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Tbilisi, Georgia

1. Rustaveli Avenue

Stroll along Tbilisi's main street and engage with locals in cafes.

Central Location: Connects major attractions, making it an ideal meeting point.
Cafes & Restaurants: Numerous dining options offer opportunities for social interactions.
Day and Night Atmosphere: Rustaveli Avenue is lively both during the day and at night.

Bargain for souvenirs while chatting with local vendors.

Authentic Market Experience: Get a taste of traditional Georgian culture and goods.
Local Interaction: Vendors are friendly and eager to share stories about their wares.
Unique Products: Find traditional Georgian crafts, textiles, and delicacies.

Visit the ancient city of Mtskheta and mingle with locals on the train ride.

Historical Significance: Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Jvari Church.
Community Bonding: Traveling with locals allows for shared experiences and conversations.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy the scenic countryside on your journey to Mtskheta.

Relax in a traditional Georgian bathhouse and connect with fellow bathers.

Therapeutic Experience: Enjoy the healing properties of sulphur-rich mineral waters.
Communal Bathing: Bathers often engage in conversation during their soak.
Socializing over a drink: Post-bath, unwind with Georgian wine at a nearby bar.

Sample local wines and learn about winemaking from locals.

Georgian Wine Culture: Discover the ancient Georgian wine-making techniques.
Interactive Experience: Meet vintners and learn about their unique wines.
Tasting Opportunities: Taste a variety of Georgian wines, many not readily available elsewhere.

Join a free walking tour and make friends with fellow travelers.

Cost-Effective: Enjoy an informative tour without breaking the bank.
Local Guides: Get insights from knowledgeable local guides.
Meeting Fellow Travelers: Connect with like-minded travelers and exchange tips.

Attend Couchsurfing meetups to socialize with locals and fellow travelers.

Find events based on interests and connect with locals.

Diverse Events: Find events catering to a wide range of interests.
Local Organizers: Meet organizers and attendees who are passionate about the event topic.
Interactive Experience: Engage in discussions, workshops, or group activities.

Practice Georgian with locals by offering English in return.

Language Practice: Improve your Georgian language skills while connecting with locals.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Georgian culture and traditions from native speakers.
Building Friendships: Establish genuine friendships with locals who can show you the real Tbilisi.

Join a local-run Facebook group to connect with other expats and locals.

Local Insights: Get advice on hidden gems, current events, and safety tips.
Community Bonding: Connect with a supportive community of locals and expats.
Event Sharing: Stay updated on local events, meetups, and gatherings.

Explore Tbilisi on a bike and interact with locals along the way.

Active Adventure: Experience Tbilisi's hidden gems while cycling through its streets.
Local Guides: Discover the city with knowledgeable local guides who can share insider tips.
Small Group Sizes: Enjoy a more personalized experience with smaller tour groups.

Learn to cook traditional Georgian dishes and engage with local chefs.

Cultural Exchange: Experience the rich culinary heritage of Georgia.
Interactive Experience: Get hands-on experience preparing Georgian dishes.
Meeting Locals: Connect with local chefs and fellow students in a fun, relaxed setting.

Give back to the community by volunteering at local projects.

Helping Locals: Support local initiatives and make a positive impact.
Community Bonding: Connect with locals while working on meaningful projects.
Cultural Exchange: Experience Georgian culture and traditions through volunteer work.

Relax in a park and strike up conversations with locals.

Natural Setting: Enjoy the beauty of Tbilisi's parks while socializing.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Casual setting invites easy conversations with locals.
Diverse Activities: Find various activities like picnics, exercise groups, or street performances.

Discover Tbilisi's vibrant street art scene and interact with local artists.

Cultural Expression: Explore the unique artistic identity of Tbilisi.
Local Guides: Get insights into the stories and meanings behind each piece.
Interactive Experience: Meet local artists and learn about their work and inspiration.