Tbilisi - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Handicrafts Traditional Georgian Textiles o Description: Georgian textiles, including handwoven rugs, carpets, and kilims, are popular items. These textiles often feature intricate patterns and vibrant colors, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. o Where to buy: You can find these items in local markets, such as the Dry Bridge Market, and specialty shops around the city. Embroidery and Needlework o Description: Traditional Georgian embroidery and needlework are known for their detailed designs and craftsmanship. Items such as tablecloths, napkins, and clothing with intricate embroidery make for unique souvenirs. o Where to Buy: These can be found in craft shops and markets throughout Tbilisi. Artwork Georgian Paintings and Prints o Description: Georgian artists produce a wide range of paintings and prints, often inspired by the country's landscapes, history, and culture. Contemporary and traditional art pieces are available. o Where to Buy: Art galleries, such as the National Gallery and private galleries in the Sololaki and Vera districts, offer a variety of artworks. The Dry Bridge Market is also a good place to find affordable art. Ceramics and Pottery o Description: Georgian ceramics and pottery are known for their unique designs and functionality. Items such as plates, bowls, and decorative pieces are popular. o Where to Buy: Local pottery shops and markets, including the Dry Bridge Market, are great places to find these items. Antiques Antique Jewelry: o Description: Antique Georgian jewelry, often made with silver and featuring traditional designs, is highly sought after. Pieces may include rings, necklaces, and bracelets. o Where to buy: Antique shops and the Dry Bridge Market are good places to search for these unique items. Vintage Soviet Memorabilia: o Description: Tbilisi has a variety of vintage Soviet-era memorabilia, including badges, medals, posters, and household items. These items offer a glimpse into the country's history during the Soviet period. o Where to buy: The Dry Bridge Market is a popular spot for finding Soviet memorabilia. Other Items: Georgian Wine: o Description: Georgia is famous for its wine, with a winemaking tradition that dates back thousands of years. Popular varieties include Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white). o Where to buy: Wine shops, such as Vinotheca and Wine Gallery, as well as local wineries and markets, offer a wide selection of Georgian wines. • Chacha (Georgian Brandy): o Description: Chacha is a traditional Georgian brandy made from grape pomace. It is a strong spirit and a popular souvenir. o Where to buy: Available in liquor stores, markets, and directly from local producers. • Enamel Jewelry (Minankari): o Description: Minankari is a traditional Georgian enamel art used to create beautiful jewelry pieces, such as pendants, earrings, and brooches. o Where to buy: Jewelry shops and craft markets in Tbilisi offer a variety of Minankari items. Recommendations • Dry Bridge Market: This open-air market is a must-visit for those interested in antiques, artwork, and handicrafts. It offers a wide range of items, from vintage jewelry to traditional textiles. • Local shops and galleries: Exploring local shops and galleries in districts like Sololaki, Vera, and Old Town can lead to discovering unique and high-quality items. • Engage with artisans: Engaging with local artisans and learning about their craft can enhance the experience and provide a deeper appreciation for the items you purchase. - Mar 2025
Buy rugs, lots of them! - Aug 2024
Yes. There are lots of handmade crafts that are unique and gorgeous. - Aug 2024
People buy rugs but I don’t really see the appeal. - Aug 2023
Yes. Rugs, pottery, artwork, and baskets. - Sep 2022
Lots of neat Georgian products and crafts, but I wouldn't say its a huge shopping post. - Jun 2020
Favorite shop: Ornament, for gorgeous Georgian enamelware. Cool little fashion boutiques with one-of-a-kind apparel, in both the center and in Vake. Handicrafts in shops in the center (especially in the basement of the Tbilisi City Museum) and at the Dry Bridge Market. Really cool international stuff to buy at the annual IWA Winter Bazaar (usually first Saturday in December). Some antiques and fun shops in the Marjanashvili section of town, both in the newly restored and pretty pedestrian street, and also a few blocks further up from the river. Crafts boutiques at Fabrika. (Also, breakfast at Fabrika!) - Jan 2019
No, not really. Lots of wine. Hand-knitted (and itchy) wool socks. Some people buy local art. It's inexpensive and easy to get things framed, so we've picked up some posters and pictures. - Apr 2017
Local art is unique and everywhere. - May 2016
Wine, great food, sheeps skins, cool hats, wooden spoons, Svan salt, and cool paintings - Jul 2014
Exploring the rural areas of Georgia! Travel is the best way to spend money here. There is little of interest to buy, though there are some interesting antiques and artwork at the Dry Bridge Market. Sampling the many varieties of wine is also a good option; many people in villages make their own wine, some of which is very good. - Oct 2011
Nothing great to buy here. - Sep 2011
Nothing here is unique. - Apr 2011
Carpets from the North and South Caucasus. Wine, jewelry and art. - Jun 2010
Georgian wine is good, artwork isn't too bad. - Oct 2009
If you like oil paintings you can find some gems. Just start looking at the beginning of your tour to determine your taste. You can even have some pieces commissioned. Rugs are decent but aren't as cheap as in Baku, Istanbul. You can spend money on flights out of the city as they are pricey. Travel, travel, travel as much as possible. - Jan 2009
