National Gallery Blue Gallery
Discover Georgia's artistic soul at the National Gallery, home to iconic Pirosmani masterpieces and a rich collection of national art.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
National Gallery Blue Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Georgia's artistic soul at the National Gallery, home to iconic Pirosmani masterpieces and a rich collection of national art.
"A must-see for Pirosmani's art, though be prepared for potential staff and pricing quirks."
📸 Photography Rules
Photography policies can be strict. Ask staff before taking pictures to avoid issues.
🗣️ Language Barrier
Some staff may prefer Russian. Be patient and try English or Georgian if possible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Niko Pirosmani's Masterpieces
Permanent Collection
Experience the iconic, evocative works of Georgia's most celebrated naive artist, Niko Pirosmani.

Elene Akhvlediani's Landscapes
Permanent Collection
Admire the vibrant and atmospheric depictions of Tbilisi and Georgian vineyards by Elene Akhvlediani.

David Gudiashvili's Portraits
Permanent Collection
Explore the powerful and emotional portraits by David Gudiashvili, capturing human conflict and love.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Collection Focus
Navigating Staff Interactions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What painting in the national art gallery am i thinking of?
📸 Photography Rules
Photography policies can be strict. Ask staff before taking pictures to avoid issues.
🗣️ Language Barrier
Some staff may prefer Russian. Be patient and try English or Georgian if possible.
Painting on the left in National Gallery of Art, washington dc.
What are the must see’s in Washington DC for art?
🎟️ Ticket Pricing
Confirm pricing, especially for residents vs. non-residents, to avoid overcharging.
🎧 Audio Guide QR Codes
QR codes for audio guides are available, but ensure you're allowed to use your phone near them.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Rules
Photography policies can be strict. Ask staff before taking pictures to avoid issues.
🗣️ Language Barrier
Some staff may prefer Russian. Be patient and try English or Georgian if possible.
🎟️ Ticket Pricing
Confirm pricing, especially for residents vs. non-residents, to avoid overcharging.
🎧 Audio Guide QR Codes
QR codes for audio guides are available, but ensure you're allowed to use your phone near them.
📍 Central Location
Conveniently located downtown, perfect for a stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The National Gallery is highly praised for its significant collection of Georgian art, particularly the iconic works of Niko Pirosmani. Visitors appreciate the manageable size of the exhibits and the central location. However, some guests have encountered issues with staff interactions, photography restrictions, and perceived unfair ticket pricing for foreigners.
"I love this museum in Tbilisi and tend to visit it pretty much every time I am in the city.
Located properly downtown, you will always conveniently pass by it when taking a stroll through the capital. The building itself is nice and comfortable but, most importantly, the pieces exhibited here are not overwhelming, very well placed and usually combine the permanent collection with a small to medium sized ongoing event.
Even if you come here for Pirosmani only you will be more than satisfied. If, however, you are an art lover, you will discover some amazing pieces and artists you most certainly have never seen before. Kakabadze’s landscapes with vineyards are still some of my favorites and Gudiashvili’s images of people evoke conflict and love even over time and distance.
You must come here."
Yevgen Gusovskyy
"The main reason to visit was to experience Pirosmani's picture. And I'm really impressed. For preserving visual memory I do not visit any other wings:) But you can find classic Georgian art inside"
Oleg Kalashnikov
"I never leave bad reviews and if you look at my profile you’ll see it, I always leave 5 stars, but I was treated so miserably here that I have to do this.
Ok so first of all only the 2nd floor of the museum was open but that was absolutely fine, I enter the first room and I take a pic (there were no signs that pics weren’t allowed) and a lady starts yelling at me in Russian..
Second room and corridor even worse, there are no explanations about the paintings whatsoever so you have to scan a qr code in order to listen to the audio guide, I put my phone near the qr code and the alarm goes on… and I was yelled at in Georgian for just trying to scan one code, I left immediately after and I am still mad about it, worst museum I have been to, and not for the paintings, those are beautiful, but bc of the people who work there… it’s a shame"
Georgia Ceriani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Gallery is centrally located in Tbilisi, making it easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the downtown area. Public transport options like buses and metro are also available, with stations typically a short walk away. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
While the building itself is generally comfortable, accessibility for individuals with mobility issues can vary. It's advisable to contact the gallery in advance to inquire about specific facilities like ramps or elevators.
The gallery is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, so several bus routes will stop nearby. The nearest metro station is Rustaveli, which is a short walk from the gallery.
Street parking in the downtown area can be challenging. There might be paid parking lots or garages within walking distance, but it's recommended to check local parking regulations and availability beforehand.
Yes, its central location on Rustaveli Avenue makes it a prominent landmark and easy to find. Look for the distinctive architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, and some visitors have reported discrepancies in pricing, especially for foreign residents. It's best to confirm the current ticket prices upon arrival or check their official website if available. Be prepared for potential differences between local and international visitor rates.
Generally, advance booking is not required for the permanent collection. However, for special exhibitions or during peak tourist seasons, it might be advisable to check if pre-booking is recommended or available.
Opening hours can vary, and sometimes only certain floors or sections are open. It's recommended to check the gallery's official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or other groups is not consistently mentioned. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter about any available concessions.
Some visitors with Georgian residence permits have reported being charged higher prices than expected, even when presenting documentation. It's crucial to clarify the exact pricing for residents with a valid permit at the ticket counter.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Photography rules can be strict and may vary by exhibition. Some visitors have encountered issues when taking photos without permission. It's best to ask staff before taking any pictures to avoid problems.
Yes, an audio guide is available, often accessed via QR codes. Ensure you are permitted to use your phone near these codes, as some visitors have triggered alarms.
The Niko Pirosmani collection is a major highlight. Many visitors focus on this section, finding it deeply impressive. Allow ample time to appreciate these unique works.
Explanations for paintings might be limited, with QR codes often serving as the primary source of information via the audio guide. Be prepared to use your smartphone for detailed insights.
The collection is described as not overwhelming, featuring a permanent collection alongside temporary exhibitions. This makes it manageable for a focused visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information about on-site dining facilities is limited. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit, as nearby cafes and restaurants are plentiful in the downtown area.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside art galleries to protect the exhibits. It's best to consume any refreshments outside the exhibition spaces.
Being in a central location, you'll find numerous dining options ranging from traditional Georgian cuisine to international fare within a short walking distance. Explore the streets around Rustaveli Avenue.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can be inconsistent and may vary by exhibition. Some visitors have reported being reprimanded for taking photos without permission. Always ask staff before snapping pictures.
It's common for certain sensitive artworks or temporary exhibitions to have strict no-photography rules. Be observant of signage and staff instructions.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited in art galleries as the light can damage delicate artworks over time. Avoid using your flash.
Visitors often capture images of Niko Pirosmani's distinctive works, as well as the architectural details of the gallery itself. Focus on capturing the essence of the art.
The exterior of the National Gallery can be photogenic, especially with its prominent location. Inside, focus on the art itself, but be mindful of any restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful of strict photography rules and potential communication challenges with staff. It might be beneficial to prepare children beforehand about these aspects. Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to ensure a more relaxed experience. The central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Tbilisi.
💰 Budget Travelers
Given its central location, you can easily walk or use public transport to reach the gallery, saving on transportation costs. Pack your own snacks and water, as on-site dining options might be limited or costly, and outside food is generally not permitted inside.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the gallery's layout, which is often praised for its thoughtful presentation. Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions, as they can offer exposure to contemporary Georgian artists and diverse artistic movements. Be prepared to use the audio guide via QR codes for deeper insights into the artworks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Niko Pirosmani
Experiencing Pirosmani's art is often described as a highlight that makes the visit worthwhile, even for those not deeply familiar with Georgian art. The raw emotion and distinct visual language of his work resonate strongly with viewers, offering a powerful glimpse into the soul of Georgia. The gallery's presentation of these works allows for an intimate connection with the artist's vision, making it a must-see for any art enthusiast.
Navigating Visitor Experience and Staff Interactions
Another point of contention has been ticket pricing, with some foreign visitors feeling unfairly charged double the resident price, even when possessing official Georgian identification. This has led to feelings of disappointment and disrespect. It's advisable for visitors to be prepared for potential communication barriers and to clarify all pricing and rules upfront to ensure a smoother visit.
Despite these negative accounts, other visitors have reported positive interactions, describing the personnel as nice and the atmosphere as great. This suggests that experiences can vary. Being patient, polite, and clear in your communication may help mitigate potential issues.
Exploring Georgian Art Beyond Pirosmani
David Gudiashvili is another artist whose work is featured, with his portraits often evoking strong emotions related to conflict and love. These pieces provide insight into the human condition and the historical context of Georgia. The gallery's arrangement, often described as well-placed with ample white space, allows each artwork to be appreciated individually, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Beyond these well-known figures, the gallery also presents contemporary Georgian art and temporary exhibitions, offering a dynamic and evolving display of the nation's artistic talent. This variety ensures that visitors can discover new artists and styles, making each visit potentially unique.
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