Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths - brown pillars beside body of water
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Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths

4.5
·11k reviews·T'bilisi, Georgia

Immerse yourself in Tbilisi's history with a rejuvenating soak in ancient sulfur baths, known for their therapeutic waters and unique domed architectu...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths - brown pillars beside body of water

Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Immerse yourself in Tbilisi's history with a rejuvenating soak in ancient sulfur baths, known for their therapeutic waters and unique domed architecture.

4.5
(11k reviews)

"A definite must in Tbilisi, felt cleaner than ever after that experience."

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TIP

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Essential for private rooms & massages. Walk-ins are rarely available.

💰 Bring Cash for Extras

Massages & body peels often require cash payment.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Private Sulfur Bath Suite

Private Sulfur Bath Suite

Abanotubani district

Relax in a private room with a hot, sulfur-rich pool, shower, and toilet. Some suites offer saunas.

Traditional Scrub and Massage

Traditional Scrub and Massage

Within your private suite

Experience a deep cleansing scrub followed by a relaxing massage for ultimate rejuvenation.

Historic Abanotubani District

Historic Abanotubani District

Old Tbilisi

Explore the ancient quarter where Tbilisi was founded, known for its distinctive domed bathhouses.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Sulfur Bath Experience

Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for private rooms and massages, as walk-in slots are rare. Bring cash for add-ons like massages, as not all payment methods are accepted.

Embrace the Sulfur Sensation

The distinct sulfur smell is strong and the water is very hot. Consider your health conditions, especially in summer. Facilities are historic, not modern spa-like, but clean and respectful.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Start your day refreshed
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best Sulphur baths in Tblisi?

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Essential for private rooms & massages. Walk-ins are rarely available. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Extras

Massages & body peels often require cash payment. Reddit

reddit.com

Gulo bath opinions

👃 Brace for Sulfur Smell

The distinct smell is strong! It's part of the authentic experience. Reddit

🌡️ Water is Very Hot!

Be mindful of the extreme heat, especially if you have heart conditions. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Essential for private rooms & massages. Walk-ins are rarely available. Reddit

💰 Bring Cash for Extras

Massages & body peels often require cash payment. Reddit

👃 Brace for Sulfur Smell

The distinct smell is strong! It's part of the authentic experience. Reddit

🌡️ Water is Very Hot!

Be mindful of the extreme heat, especially if you have heart conditions. Reddit

🧼 Facilities are Historic

Expect clean but older facilities, not modern spa luxury. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the unique and historic sulfur bath experience in Tbilisi, highlighting the rejuvenating scrub and massage in clean, private suites. While the strong sulfur smell and intense heat are notable, most find it an essential and worthwhile cultural immersion. Some note the facilities are older, and the experience can feel tourist-oriented and rushed.

"I will say it's a must to try a sulfur bath when you visit Georgia. Since I didn't know what to expect and I was probably expecting something more of a human /spa treatment, I have to give them a medium rate. It seems like it's tailored to tourists only and because they have so many people it feels very rushed and not very personal when it comes to treatments. Everybody is very respectful and you will definitely get what you pay for in terms of the sulfur baths. The place looks very clean. The people are very respectful and friendly as well. The place is also very cool looking. For 1 hour treatment for two people for private room:
sulfur bath 15 minutes
scrub 15 minutes
massage 30 minutes each.
we pay in US dollars around $150"

Karen VanHooser

"Up for a relaxing sulfite bath in a private suite? This is your place! Here you can choose a bath suite to your liking, some only have one warm pool and the biggest ones even a sauna. All are equipped with a shower and toilet. It is advisable to book in advance, and remember to bring cash with you if you want ro include a massage or body peeling to your visit."

Viliina Lilja

"Very famous attraction in Old Tbilisi and one of the important activities to do in the city, especially for those who have never experienced Public baths and hot springs.

The area, known as Abanotubani, is very important and significant to Tbilisi’s history and cultural identity. It’s where, according to legends, King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s falcon fell, leading to a discovery of the hot springs and, subsequently, to the founding of the new capital.

I didn’t have the time to experience it, but i bet it’s very similar to the public baths in my country Iraq."

Abdulrahman Qazzaz

What People Like

Historic ambiance
Rejuvenating scrub
Private suites

What People Dislike

Strong sulfur smell
Intense heat
Tourist-focused

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The baths are located in the historic Abanotubani district of Old Tbilisi. They are easily accessible by foot from most central tourist areas. If coming from further afield, you can take a taxi or public transport to the Old Town and then walk. Reddit

Yes, Abanotubani is a very popular and safe tourist area in Tbilisi. It's well-lit and frequented by visitors exploring the historic bathhouses and surrounding streets. Reddit

Walking is ideal if you're staying in or near Old Tbilisi. Taxis are readily available and affordable for longer distances. Public buses also serve the area, but navigating them might be challenging for first-time visitors. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the historic Abanotubani district can be very difficult due to narrow streets and pedestrian zones. It's best to rely on taxis or public transport. Reddit

The baths are a landmark themselves! They are situated near the Narikala Fortress and the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, making them easy to locate within the picturesque Old Town. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Prices vary depending on the room type and duration. A private room for an hour, including a bath, scrub, and massage for two, can cost around $150 USD. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for private suites and massages. Walk-in availability is very limited, and you might have to wait or miss out entirely. Reddit

A typical package includes time in a private thermal pool, a scrub, soaping, and a massage. The duration and specific services can vary based on the package you choose. Reddit

While some services might be payable by card, it's strongly advised to bring cash, especially for add-on services like massages or body peels, as not all payment methods may be accepted. Reddit

The baths generally operate daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening and closing times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll experience a very hot, sulfurous water bath, followed by a vigorous scrub and a massage in a private suite. The smell of sulfur is strong, and the heat can be intense. Reddit

Yes, the sulfur smell is quite potent and is a characteristic of these natural hot springs. It's an integral part of the authentic experience. Reddit

The facilities are historic and reflect the traditional architecture of Tbilisi's bathhouses. While clean and well-maintained, they are not modern spa facilities. Reddit

You don't need to bring much. They provide towels and basic amenities. Bringing a swimsuit is optional as you'll be provided with a private room. Cash for extras is recommended. Reddit

The water is extremely hot. It's advisable to test the temperature before fully immersing yourself and to be mindful of your body's reaction, especially in warmer weather. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, some reviews mention that food can be ordered and was brought quickly, suggesting an in-house or nearby dining option available for guests. Reddit

The baths are located in the heart of Old Tbilisi, which is brimming with restaurants and cafes offering Georgian cuisine. You'll find plenty of dining options within walking distance. Reddit

You can find traditional Georgian dishes like Khachapuri, Khinkali, and various grilled meats and vegetable stews in the restaurants surrounding the bathhouse district. Reddit

It's generally recommended to avoid heavy meals immediately before or after your bath. Light snacks or meals can be enjoyed a couple of hours before or after your session. Reddit

Georgian cuisine offers many naturally vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as Pkhali (vegetable pâtés), Lobio (bean stew), and various vegetable stews and salads. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While you might be able to take photos in common areas or your private suite, it's best to ask staff for permission to ensure privacy and respect for other guests. Reddit

The distinctive domed architecture of the bathhouses from the outside is very photogenic. Inside, the unique tile work and the steaming pools in private suites can make for interesting shots. Reddit

It is generally not appropriate to take photos during personal treatments like massages or scrubs out of respect for the therapists and your own privacy. Reddit

It's always a good practice to avoid using flash photography in any indoor setting, especially in places with sensitive lighting or where it might disturb other patrons. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the bathhouses. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good visibility of the unique architecture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the sulfur baths can be a unique experience, they might not be ideal for very young children due to the extreme heat and strong sulfur smell. If you decide to go, opt for a private suite where you can control the environment. Ensure children are supervised closely in the hot water and consider shorter durations. Reddit

For families looking for a more universally appealing activity, exploring the historic Abanotubani district itself, visiting the nearby Narikala Fortress, or enjoying the funicular ride offer great alternatives. Many restaurants in the area are also very family-friendly and offer delicious Georgian cuisine. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths can be a splurge, especially for private rooms and massages. For a more budget-friendly experience, inquire about shorter durations or if there are any less elaborate public bath options available, though private suites are the most common offering for tourists. Reddit

Alternatively, exploring the historic Abanotubani district and its unique architecture is a free and highly rewarding activity. Enjoying affordable and delicious Georgian food from local eateries in the Old Town is also a great way to experience Tbilisi on a budget. Reddit

💖 Couples

The private suites at Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths offer a romantic and intimate setting for couples. Booking a package that includes a scrub and massage for both of you can be a wonderfully relaxing and bonding experience. The unique atmosphere of the historic bathhouse adds to the charm. Reddit

Remember to book in advance to secure a private suite. The combination of the hot sulfur water, the invigorating scrub, and a soothing massage makes for a perfect way to unwind together after a day of exploring Tbilisi. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Legend of Tbilisi's Sulfur Baths

The Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths are nestled in the heart of Abanotubani, the historic district that gave Tbilisi its name. Legend has it that King Vakhtang Gorgasali discovered the area's hot springs when his falcon fell into a pool. This serendipitous discovery led to the founding of the city, making these baths a cornerstone of Tbilisi's identity. The distinctive domed architecture of the bathhouses, visible from the streets, is a testament to their ancient origins and unique construction, designed to retain heat and steam. Reddit

These baths have been a vital part of Georgian culture for centuries, serving as places for relaxation, socializing, and healing. They were patronized by locals and travelers alike, offering a communal experience of cleansing and rejuvenation. While modern spas have emerged, the traditional sulfur baths like Chreli Abano Orbeliani offer an authentic glimpse into Tbilisi's past and its enduring connection to these natural thermal waters. Reddit

Today, the baths continue to draw visitors seeking a unique wellness experience. They represent a living piece of history, allowing people to connect with the very origins of the city while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters. The experience is not just about physical cleansing but also about immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of Georgian heritage. Reddit

Understanding the Sulfur Bath Experience

The core of the Chreli Abano Orbeliani Baths experience lies in its sulfur-rich hot springs. These waters are known for their therapeutic properties, believed to aid in skin conditions, joint pain, and overall relaxation. Upon entering your private suite, you'll find a pool filled with water that is naturally very hot, often around 40-45°C (104-113°F). The distinct sulfur smell is strong and pervasive, which is a key characteristic of these natural baths and should be expected. Reddit

Your session typically includes a vigorous scrub (kisa) performed by an attendant, which exfoliates the skin, followed by a soaping and a massage. The scrub is quite intense and effective, leaving your skin feeling incredibly smooth. While the facilities are clean, they are historic, meaning they won't have the polished, modern amenities of a contemporary spa. The focus is on the natural, therapeutic benefits of the water and the traditional cleansing rituals. Reddit

It's important to be prepared for the intense heat and the unique smell. Visitors with certain health conditions, particularly heart issues, should exercise caution. Bringing cash for optional add-ons like extended massages is also a practical tip. Despite the rustic nature of the facilities and the strong scent, many visitors find the experience deeply rejuvenating and a must-do in Tbilisi. Reddit

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