Sololaki Neighborhood
Discover Sololaki, Tbilisi's historic gem, famed for its breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture and authentic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Sololaki Neighborhood
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sololaki, Tbilisi's historic gem, famed for its breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture and authentic charm.
"Wander through streets adorned with stunning Art Nouveau buildings, a testament to Tbilisi's rich architectural past."
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sololaki's charming streets are hilly; pack comfy shoes for exploring its beautiful architecture.
🚗 Use Ride-Sharing Apps
Bolt is a convenient way to get around Sololaki and to/from Freedom Square, especially at night.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Nouveau Architecture
Throughout Sololaki
Wander through streets adorned with stunning Art Nouveau buildings, a testament to Tbilisi's rich architectural past.
Proximity to Freedom Square
Southern edge of Sololaki
Enjoy easy access to the heart of Tbilisi, with Freedom Square just a short walk away for shopping and sightseeing.
Local Atmosphere
Sololaki streets
Experience the authentic vibe of Tbilisi with local shops, cafes, and a glimpse into everyday life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Sololaki
Getting Around Sololaki
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What area to stay in Tbilisi
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sololaki's charming streets are hilly; pack comfy shoes for exploring its beautiful architecture.
🚗 Use Ride-Sharing Apps
Bolt is a convenient way to get around Sololaki and to/from Freedom Square, especially at night.
Best neighborhood?
In what area should I stay in Tbilisi as a digital nomad?
🌃 Safe for Night Walks
Despite its older appearance, the area is safe for evening strolls, with nearby markets for late-night needs.
☕️ Discover Local Cafes
Enjoy the authentic Tbilisi experience by stopping at local cafes for a coffee and a taste of Georgian life.
Travelling to Tbilisi as Armenian. My experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sololaki's charming streets are hilly; pack comfy shoes for exploring its beautiful architecture.
🚗 Use Ride-Sharing Apps
Bolt is a convenient way to get around Sololaki and to/from Freedom Square, especially at night.
🌃 Safe for Night Walks
Despite its older appearance, the area is safe for evening strolls, with nearby markets for late-night needs.
☕️ Discover Local Cafes
Enjoy the authentic Tbilisi experience by stopping at local cafes for a coffee and a taste of Georgian life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sololaki is praised for its beautiful, historic Art Nouveau architecture and authentic neighborhood feel, offering a safe and charming experience. While some find the location a bit removed from the absolute center, its proximity to Freedom Square and the availability of nearby amenities are appreciated. Some guests noted issues with room cleanliness and amenities in specific hotels, but the overall sentiment leans positive for its unique character and local charm.
"This is a beautiful hotel, which is a new and very clean. I really like that. It’s so quiet. The location is not the best for me at least but the view is so beautiful. It can be very dark at night, especially if you’re coming late but there’s like a supermarket and a pharmacy in near to it.
The rooms are clean they clean every day. The breakfast is so delicious with a lot of variety.
Highly recommended !!"
Shennyie
"The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Freedom Square. Also you can take buses or bolt. The rooms were very clean, though a bit small, and there was no minibar. Breakfast options were limited, but that didn’t take away from our overall enjoyment of the stay. There are 24-hour markets nearby, and while the area may look a little old and run-down at first, it’s actually safe — you can comfortably walk around even late at night."
merve ersoy
"I cannot recommend this hotel…
I’ll try to explain why and keep it short:
1. We had stains on the carpet and bathroom everywhere. As if someone extinguished cigarettes.
2. It is stuffy in the room and there are no nets on the windows (since there are mosquitoes and flies from the outside we were not able to air the room) even though the air conditioner had a ventilation option, it didn’t help, especially at night
3. Speakers in rooms. Not the best idea to install speakers in the rooms because people use them very late in the evening. It makes it impossible to sleep.
4. Ants came out in the morning and filled our table and personal stuff 🫠
5. We couldn’t eat the breakfast there :( Among all of the food only bread and vegetables were tasty, the other food was just dry 🥲 We paid for the breakfast there and instead of enjoying it there, we had to go look for a coffee shop.
As for the good things: service. The employee was always in touch, answered all questions and collaborated on all issues. It felt great 👍
But the hotel needs a renovation, it was unpleasant to stay in the room.
I attached examples of our carpet, walls and a feet shower towel. I was shocked 🤯"
Vasilisa Shtein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), you can take a taxi or a Bolt to Sololaki, which is about a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Public transport options like buses are also available but might require transfers.
Yes, Sololaki is located just uphill from Freedom Square, making it about a 7-10 minute walk. Be prepared for some inclines as you explore the neighborhood.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and admire the architecture. For longer distances or to avoid the hills, Bolt or local buses are good options.
While Sololaki is best explored on foot, several bus routes pass through or near the neighborhood, connecting it to other parts of Tbilisi.
Sololaki is adjacent to the city center and easily identifiable by its distinct Art Nouveau buildings. Using a GPS app on your phone is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sololaki is a residential neighborhood and a public area. You do not need tickets to walk around and admire its architecture and atmosphere.
There are no entrance fees for Sololaki. It's a free public space to explore at your leisure.
Most shops and cafes in Sololaki operate on standard business hours, typically from around 9 AM or 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM. Some may have extended hours or be open later.
Yes, Sololaki is accessible 24/7 as it's a public neighborhood. However, visiting during daylight hours is best for appreciating the architecture and for safety.
While Sololaki itself doesn't require bookings, individual hotels or specific businesses within the neighborhood might have their own reservation policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire neighborhood is a photographer's dream! Focus on the intricate details of the Art Nouveau facades, balconies, and staircases. Streets like Rustaveli Avenue nearby also offer great shots.
Yes, it's generally fine to take photos of the exteriors of buildings in Sololaki. Be respectful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful soft light that enhances the architectural details. Midday can be harsh, but still good for capturing the vibrant colors.
Sololaki is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by ornate decorations, flowing lines, and unique balconies. You'll also find examples of neoclassical and eclectic styles.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check local laws and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sololaki offers a mix of local cafes and restaurants. While it's not as dense with dining options as some other areas, you can find authentic Georgian cuisine and cozy spots to eat.
You'll find traditional Georgian dishes like Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and Khinkali (dumplings), alongside international options in some establishments.
Yes, reviews mention the presence of 24-hour supermarkets and pharmacies nearby, which are convenient for snacks and essentials.
Breakfast experiences vary. Some hotels offer delicious Georgian dishes with variety, while others might have limited options. It's worth checking recent reviews for specific hotels.
Georgian cuisine is generally vegetarian-friendly, with many vegetable-based dishes. Most restaurants will be able to accommodate vegetarian requests, and some offer vegan options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to spot interesting details on the buildings – gargoyles, unique balconies, and colorful doors. The proximity to Freedom Square also means easy access to more open spaces and attractions suitable for children. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as exploring can be tiring, and enjoy the slower pace of this historic district.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for smaller, local cafes and bakeries for affordable and delicious meals. Many accommodations in or near Sololaki offer good value. The availability of 24-hour markets means you can easily pick up snacks and drinks at reasonable prices, further helping to manage your budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem of Sololaki
Exploring Sololaki feels like stepping back in time. The neighborhood's charm lies in its preserved buildings, many of which have been lovingly restored, while others retain a beautiful patina of age. This blend of the old and the new creates a unique atmosphere. While some reviews mention the area looking a bit run-down, this is often part of its authentic character, and locals assure visitors of its safety and charm.
For the best experience, take your time to walk through the smaller side streets. You'll discover hidden courtyards, charming cafes, and a sense of tranquility away from the main tourist paths. Keep an eye out for specific architectural details like floral patterns, mythological figures, and asymmetrical designs that are hallmarks of Art Nouveau.
Navigating Sololaki: Practicalities and Perspectives
Local buses also serve the area, providing a budget-friendly option for getting around Tbilisi. However, understanding the routes and schedules might require a bit of local knowledge or a good navigation app. The presence of 24-hour markets and pharmacies nearby adds to the convenience, ensuring you have access to necessities even late at night.
Traveler feedback highlights that while the area might appear 'old and run-down' to some, it's consistently described as safe, even for late-night walks. This sense of security, combined with the authentic local atmosphere, makes Sololaki an appealing choice for visitors looking to experience a less touristy side of Tbilisi.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit