The architecture of Tbilisi is especially fascinating, as it combines European, Asian, Soviet, and modern architectural styles.
We will begin the tour on Rustaveli Avenue, where we will see five of the most beautiful 19th-century Art Nouveau buildings in Tbilisi. From there, we will move to the Asian part of the city, which was influenced by Iranian architectural styles.
Along the way, we will also see so-called Stalinist buildings, as well as modern 21st-century glass constructions.
Hiking in Georgia is possible April to November, but best period is June to October . there are several locations for that, which I will recommend according to time you have in here. I can draw itinerary for you and go with you for hiking too.
If you have vacation and planning to see in Georgia as much as possible contact me let me know how many days you have, how many people you are and I will arrange itinerary for you according to your wishes , I can include hiking, wine testing, food tasting .
This tour will mainly focus of Georgian history but will include also historical convention between Georgia and countries mentioned in headline this can be done during Tbilisi city tour or outside city upon request.
One of the most common questions I receive is: “What is the best time to travel to Georgia?” The answer depends on what kind of experience you are looking for.
Georgia has a subtropical climate and four distinct seasons. Despite being a small country, it offers remarkable climatic diversity: winter (December–February), spring (March–May), summer (June–August), and autumn (September–November).
From my professional perspective as a local guide, the most convenient period to visit Georgia is from the second half of May to mid-November. During this time, travel conditions are excellent, with minimal road closures due to snow. This period is ideal for a 7–8 day tour or longer, allowing you to explore the country comfortably.
That said, many travelers—particularly from GCC countries—wish to experience snow. For them, the best time to visit is January to mid-March, when snowfall is fresh and frequent, especially in the mountains and ski resorts.
Each month in Georgia has its own unique charm. Below is a brief month-by-month guide to help you choose the perfect time for your visit.
January January is winter and the heart of the festive season. New Year is the most important celebration in Georgia. From January 1–14, cities—especially Tbilisi—are beautifully decorated, with lively Christmas markets and celebration.
February February is the coldest winter month and the best choice for those seeking a true snow experience. Georgia’s winters are relatively mild: average temperatures are around +2°C in Tbilisi and -5°C in ski resorts, making it comfortable even for families with children.
March March is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy both snow and sunshine. Ski resorts offer pleasant weather, perfect for skiing and relaxing outdoors.
April April marks the arrival of spring, with fruit trees in full bloom—apple, peach, cherry—and colorful wildflowers across the countryside.
May In May, Georgia offers a rare combination of snowy mountain peaks and lush green valleys, along with abundant wildflowers.
June June signals the start of the hiking season, and visitors can enjoy the first seasonal fruits, including fresh cherries.
July July is one of the best months for hiking and nature exploration, featuring vibrant greenery and a low chance of rainfall.
August August can be hot in Tbilisi, so it is best spent in the mountains or by the Black Sea coast.
September September is a highlight for wine lovers, as it is harvest season. Visitors can participate in traditional grape harvesting and wine-making activities.
October October showcases stunning autumn colors, making it a perfect month for photography and cultural travel.
November November is less crowded, with mild weather and lingering autumn landscapes. The first snow may appear in the mountains.
December By the end of December, the winter and ski season begins, bringing snow to mountain regions and festive energy to the cities.
The first historical connection between Italy and Georgia dates back to the 13th century and is associated with the famous traveler Marco Polo. Although he never actually visited Georgia, he mentioned the country in his book, describing Georgians as “brave Christian warriors” and “good sailors.”
In honor of Marco Polo, one of the streets in Tbilisi was named after him, and today several hotels and restaurants also operate under his name.
What I have mentioned so far is a more abstract historical connection. In this article, I would like to tell you about the real and tangible Italian legacy in the capital of Georgia—one that you can still see and touch. This is the story that inspired me to write this article.
Let’s begin.
Italian Legacy in 19th-Century Tbilisi
The first documentary photographer of the city of Tbilisi—and of Georgia as a whole—was Italian-born Dmitri Yermakov Cribaggio (1846–1916; Yermakov was his mother’s surname). He opened one of the first photographic studios on Rustaveli Avenue No. 19. Many of the earliest photographs of historic buildings in Tbilisi were taken by Yermakov, including the modern City Council building at Liberty Square and the former Youth Palace at Rustaveli Avenue No. 6
(In the 19th century, Georgia was part of the Russian Empire. 1801-1917)
The first systematic architect of Tbilisi was also Italian: Giovanni Scudieri (1817–1851).He designed the first Opera House of Tbilisi, which unfortunately was destroyed by fire and no longer exists, although its location is known. Scudieri also designed the Dry Bridge, the oldest bridge in Tbilisi over the Mtkvari River, which still stands today
Scudieri tragically died in Tbilisi after falling from scaffolding while inspecting one of the buildings for which he was the chief architect. He was buried in a Catholic cemetery in Tbilisi; although the location is known, the cemetery itself was removed during the Soviet period, and his grave was lost. Today, a street in Tbilisi bears his name.
How Did Scudieri Come to Tbilisi?
Scudieri was born in Lugano, where his mother was from, while his father came from Padua, where Giovanni grew up. His uncle, also an architect, worked in Odessa, and Scudieri’s parents sent him there to study and follow the architectural profession. From Odessa, he later moved to Tbilisi.
The city’s first opera was staffed entirely by Italians. In fact, Italian opera was the first opera not only in Georgia but in the entire South Caucasus. It opened on November 9, 1851, with all performers being Italian, by special invitation of the Russian Emperor. The opera was located at today’s Liberty Square, where the statue of St. George now stands.
Dry bridge, Architecture Giovani Scudieri
Italian Architects in Modern Tbilisi
Now let us move from the 19th century to modern times. Between 2003 and 2012, Tbilisi experienced another architectural renaissance—one that, once again, could not have happened without Italians.
Some of the most prominent modern buildings in Tbilisi were designed by Italian architects:
• Peace Bridge — designed by Michele De Lucchi, completed in 2011. It is the only pedestrian bridge over the Mtkvari River and the newest one to date. Notably, both the oldest and the newest bridges on the Mtkvari River were designed by Italians.
• Public Service Hall — designed by Massimiliano Fuksas, a striking building with a mushroom-like shape.
If you are Italian and interested in visiting these buildings and learning more about them, I would be happy to be your guide.
