Turtle Lake Ropeway - A rope is in the middle of a body of water
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Turtle Lake Ropeway

4.4
·695 reviews·T'bilisi, Georgia

A charming, budget-friendly aerial tramway offering stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi, connecting Vake Park to the serene Turtle Lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset views are stunning

CrowdMedium
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Turtle Lake Ropeway - A rope is in the middle of a body of water

Turtle Lake Ropeway

Best Time

Late afternoon

Sunset views are stunning

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, budget-friendly aerial tramway offering stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi, connecting Vake Park to the serene Turtle Lake.

4.4
(695 reviews)

"A must-try for both locals and tourists: quick, cheap, and offers breathtaking views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Budget-Friendly Ride

Only 1 GEL per person (student card may offer discount). A steal for amazing city views!

⏰ Expect a Short Wait

The ropeway departs when cabins are full. Waits can be 10-15 mins, especially during peak times.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Tbilisi Views

Panoramic Tbilisi Views

During the ropeway ride

Soak in breathtaking, sweeping vistas of Tbilisi's urban landscape and lush greenery as you ascend.

Turtle Lake Serenity

Turtle Lake Serenity

At the top station

Escape the city bustle at the peaceful Turtle Lake, perfect for a stroll, coffee, or meal.

Affordable Aerial Adventure

Affordable Aerial Adventure

Vake Park to Turtle Lake

Experience a unique, short, and budget-friendly aerial tramway ride offering stunning city perspectives.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views & Vibes

Aim for late afternoon to catch the sunset over Tbilisi from Turtle Lake. Weekends and evenings can get busy, so weekdays might offer a more relaxed experience. The ride itself is short, but waiting times can vary.

Budget-Friendly Scenic Ride

The Turtle Lake Ropeway is incredibly affordable, costing just 1 GEL per person (with a student card, otherwise slightly more). It's a fantastic way to get panoramic city views without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset views are stunning
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

[HELP] Hiking from Turtle Lake to Mtatsminda

🎯 Budget-Friendly Ride

Only 1 GEL per person (student card may offer discount). A steal for amazing city views! Reddit

⏰ Expect a Short Wait

The ropeway departs when cabins are full. Waits can be 10-15 mins, especially during peak times. Reddit

reddit.com

Best one day trips in Tbilisi

🚶‍♀️ Hike Option Available

For the adventurous, there are marked trails from Vake Park to Turtle Lake. Reddit

☕ Cafes by the Lake

Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the charming cafes surrounding Turtle Lake after your ride. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Budget-Friendly Ride

Only 1 GEL per person (student card may offer discount). A steal for amazing city views! Reddit

⏰ Expect a Short Wait

The ropeway departs when cabins are full. Waits can be 10-15 mins, especially during peak times. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike Option Available

For the adventurous, there are marked trails from Vake Park to Turtle Lake. Reddit

☕ Cafes by the Lake

Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the charming cafes surrounding Turtle Lake after your ride. Reddit

🚡 Basic Cabins

Cabins are older and can sway slightly. They fit about 8-9 people, so it can feel cramped. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(695 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Turtle Lake Ropeway is widely praised for its incredibly low cost and the stunning panoramic views it offers of Tbilisi. Visitors appreciate the quick, scenic ride and the peaceful atmosphere at Turtle Lake, with its surrounding cafes. Some note the cabins are basic and can feel cramped, and waiting times can occur during busy periods.

"The Vake Park Ropeway is a short but scenic aerial tramway connecting Vake Park to Turtle Lake in Tbilisi. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a panoramic view of the city while avoiding the steep uphill climb.

Experience & Views

The ride lasts about 5 minutes and 20 seconds, giving you just enough time to soak in the beautiful views of Tbilisi. As you ascend, you get a unique perspective of the city's mix of urban landscapes and lush greenery. The transition from the bustling Vake district to the peaceful surroundings of Turtle Lake is both refreshing and relaxing.

Cost & Accessibility

A one-way ticket costs just 1 GEL with a student card, making it one of the most affordable scenic rides in the city. Even at full price, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Tbilisi from above. The ropeway is well-maintained and safe, though the cabins are relatively basic compared to newer cable cars in the city.

Destination: Turtle Lake

Once at the top, Turtle Lake offers a great spot for a walk, a quick coffee, or even a meal at one of the nearby cafés. It’s a perfect getaway from the city's noise, making the ropeway ride not just convenient but also a fun little adventure.

Final Verdict

The Vake Park Ropeway is a must-try for both locals and tourists. It’s quick, cheap, and offers breathtaking views, making it a fantastic addition to any Tbilisi itinerary."

Dushyant Ravindra

"Went around 4:30pm to see the sunset from the turtle lake. Had to wait around 10 mins to go up there but it was ok. Luckily no waiting on the round trip. I think the cable car itself is a bit old and can sway a little with around 8 people inside. Looking down the city from up top is
certainly stunning and worth the wait. There are also a few lovely cafes by the lake."

Charlotte Chen

"From the park, you can walk up to the gondola station and purchase a ticket to visit Turtle Lake. The lake itself is ordinary, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. For a mere 1 Lari per person, you can take the gondola to the lake and enjoy the views. However, be prepared for a cramped ride, as the gondola only departs when a certain number of people have gathered."

yasmine amer

What People Like

Incredible value for money
Breathtaking city views
Peaceful lake atmosphere

What People Dislike

Basic, cramped cabins
Potential waiting times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The ropeway station is located within Vake Park. You can walk to it from the park entrance. If you're coming from elsewhere in Tbilisi, you can take a taxi or public transport to Vake Park and then head to the ropeway station. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in Vake Park, especially on weekends. It's often easier to use public transport or a taxi to reach the area. Reddit

Yes, there are marked hiking trails that lead from Vake Park up to Turtle Lake. This is a great option if you enjoy hiking and want to experience the scenery on foot. Reddit

Vake Park is accessible by marshrutka (minibus) and regular buses from various parts of Tbilisi. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

The main paths in Vake Park are generally accessible, but the trails leading up to Turtle Lake might be uneven. The ropeway itself is accessible, but the cabins are compact. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A one-way ticket is very affordable, typically costing around 1 GEL per person. A student card might offer a further discount. Reddit

No, tickets are usually purchased on-site at the station. It's advisable to have cash, as card payment might not always be available. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by weather. It's best to check locally or look for recent visitor updates, but it generally operates during daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, a student card often grants a discounted fare, making the ride even more economical for students. Reddit

It's recommended to carry cash (Georgian Lari) as card payment facilities may be limited or unreliable at the ticket booth. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At Turtle Lake, you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the water, relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants, or simply take in the peaceful atmosphere away from the city. Reddit

The ride itself is quite short, lasting approximately 5 to 6 minutes, offering a quick but scenic journey. Reddit

While the cabins are older and may feel basic, they are generally considered safe enough for the short journey. Some users note they can sway slightly with passengers. Reddit

You'll get fantastic panoramic views of Tbilisi, showcasing the city's architecture, green spaces, and the surrounding hills. Reddit

Turtle Lake can get busy, especially on weekends and during good weather, with locals and tourists enjoying the recreational area. Weekday visits are generally quieter. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Turtle Lake is surrounded by several cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines, perfect for a meal or a coffee break after your ropeway ride. Reddit

The dining options range from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, often serving Georgian and international dishes. Prices can vary. Reddit

While there are many dining establishments, picnicking might be possible in designated areas, but it's best to check local regulations. Reddit

You can find a range of options, from quick snacks at cafes to full meals. Prices are generally reasonable, especially for cafes. Reddit

Most Georgian restaurants will have vegetarian dishes like khachapuri, pkhali, and various vegetable stews. It's always good to ask. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are during the ropeway ride itself, capturing the city skyline, and around Turtle Lake with its natural scenery and cafes. Reddit

Yes, the windows offer clear views. However, the cabins can be crowded, so you might need to be patient to get an unobstructed shot. Reddit

Late afternoon, especially leading up to sunset, offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Midday can be harsh. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can be strict in urban areas. It's advisable to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Reddit

You can often spot key Tbilisi landmarks like the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Narikala Fortress in the distance, depending on the angle and weather. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Turtle Lake Ropeway is a fun and easy outing for families. The short ride is exciting for children, and the views are captivating. At the top, Turtle Lake offers space for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors. There are also cafes where you can grab snacks or a meal. The affordability makes it a great option for families on a budget. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds. While the ropeway cabins are basic, they are generally safe for the short trip. The walk around the lake is also manageable for little legs, making it a pleasant family excursion. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Turtle Lake Ropeway is a must-do for budget travelers in Tbilisi. At just 1 GEL per ride (potentially less with a student card), it's one of the cheapest ways to get stunning panoramic views of the city. Reddit

Combine the ropeway with a walk around Turtle Lake and perhaps a picnic or a very affordable snack from a local cafe to keep costs down. It offers significant value for the experience and the views it provides, making it a highlight for those watching their spending. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a bit of trekking, the trails leading from Vake Park to Turtle Lake and beyond are a great option. You can hike up to Turtle Lake instead of taking the ropeway, enjoying the natural scenery. Reddit

From Turtle Lake, you can continue on marked trails towards Mtatsminda Park, offering a more extensive hiking experience with rewarding city vistas. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as some sections can be steep. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Turtle Lake Ropeway Experience

The Turtle Lake Ropeway, also known as the Vake Park Ropeway, offers a charming and incredibly affordable aerial journey connecting Vake Park to the serene Turtle Lake. This short, approximately 5-6 minute ride, provides a unique perspective of Tbilisi, blending urban sprawl with pockets of lush greenery. It's a popular local spot for a quick escape and a scenic overview of the capital city. The cabins are basic and can accommodate several passengers, leading to a communal, albeit sometimes cozy, experience. Reddit

Travelers often highlight the low cost as a major draw, with tickets being exceptionally budget-friendly, especially with a student card. While the ride is brief, the panoramic views are consistently praised, making it a worthwhile addition to any Tbilisi itinerary. The transition from the bustling park below to the tranquil lake above is a refreshing contrast. Reddit

It's important to note that the ropeway operates on a system where cabins depart once a certain number of passengers have gathered, which can sometimes lead to short waiting times, particularly during peak hours or weekends. Despite the utilitarian nature of the cabins, the overall experience is widely regarded as a delightful and accessible way to enjoy Tbilisi's scenery. Reddit

Exploring Turtle Lake

Upon arrival at the top via the ropeway, visitors are greeted by Turtle Lake (Kus Tba), a popular recreational area offering a peaceful respite from the city. The lake itself is modest, but its surroundings are dotted with numerous cafes, restaurants, and recreational facilities, making it a pleasant destination for a leisurely afternoon. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy a walk around the lake, grab a coffee or a meal at one of the lakeside establishments, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance. The area is particularly popular with families and locals looking for a green space to unwind. In warmer months, the lake area becomes a hub of activity, with outdoor seating and a generally relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more activity, there are also walking trails that extend beyond the immediate lake area, offering further opportunities to explore the surrounding hills. The combination of the scenic ropeway ride and the tranquil lake environment makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable outing. Reddit

Navigating the Trails: Hiking to Mtatsminda

For the more adventurous, the area around Turtle Lake serves as a trailhead for hikes, most notably the popular route to Mtatsminda Park. This trail offers a more immersive experience of Tbilisi's natural landscape, moving away from the urban views. Reddit

According to traveler advice, the trail is generally marked, so navigation should be manageable if you follow the signs. It's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and carry essentials like water, especially during warmer months. The hike can be rewarding, offering different perspectives of the city as you ascend. Reddit

While the ropeway provides a quick ascent, the hike to Mtatsminda is a great alternative for those who prefer to explore on foot and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. It's a good way to combine a visit to Turtle Lake with a more active exploration of the surrounding hills. Reddit

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