Narikala Fortress

One of the best views in Tbilisi! Narikala Fortress is old and beautiful. You can see the whole city from the top. The walk is a little hard, but the view is 100% worth it. A peaceful place with history and great spots for photos. No entrance fee, max you need to wait up to 10 min for cable cars 🚠, but also you can reach there by walking 🚶‍♀️

I visited this place a few years ago. It was cool to climb the fortress but a little dangerous. Now, due to reconstruction everything in close so you need to go around through the Botanical Garden and then go up.

Perched high above Tbilisi’s old town, Narikala Fortress is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for anyone exploring Georgia’s capital. Dating back to the 4th century, this ancient stronghold has witnessed centuries of invasions, empires, and transformations, yet still stands proudly as a symbol of the city’s resilience. The hike up to Narikala, whether by foot or by cable car, is worth every step. Along the way, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi, including the Mtkvari River, the Peace Bridge, and the colorful rooftops of old houses below. The fortress itself, though largely in ruins, offers a sense of raw, untouched history. Walking along the crumbling stone walls, you can almost feel the stories echoing through time. Adjacent to the fortress is the striking statue of Kartlis Deda (Mother of Georgia), adding cultural depth to the experience. Sunset is an especially magical time to visit, when the golden light casts a warm glow over the city. Narikala isn’t just a historic site—it’s a place to connect with the spirit of Tbilisi. Whether you're a history lover or a casual traveler, this ancient citadel offers an unforgettable perspective on the city.

Amazing a must to visit with cable car experience. We paid 12 Gel for 2 ways 2 person. Went in the afternoon 😌 it was cool breeze and perfect weather

Narikala (Georgian: ნარიყალა, pronounced [naɾiχʼaɫa]) is an ancient fortress overlooking Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, and the Mtkvari (Kura) River. The fortress consists of two walled sections on a steep hill between the sulfur baths and the botanical gardens of Tbilisi.

Narikala Fortress is a must-visit destination in Tbilisi, Georgia, offering an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views. Perched high on a steep hill overlooking the Mtkvari River, the fortress is a historic treasure that dates back to the 4th century, making it one of the oldest landmarks in the region. The approach to Narikala is as rewarding as the destination itself. You can either hike up the charming cobblestone paths from the Old Town or take a scenic cable car ride, which offers stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi. Once at the top, the fortress ruins open up to a sprawling site that invites exploration and imagination. The partially restored walls and towers give visitors a glimpse into its medieval grandeur, while the open areas allow for peaceful moments of reflection. From the fortress, the views are simply unparalleled. You can see the entirety of Tbilisi, including landmarks like the Peace Bridge, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the sulfur baths. The juxtaposition of modern city life and ancient history is striking. While Narikala lacks a formal museum or extensive signage, its raw, untouched feel adds to its charm. It’s a place to wander freely and soak in the atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, Narikala Fortress is a highlight of any visit to Georgia.

Commands an awesome view . Even though fortress is closed for repairs yet you should visit it for the view

The fortress is unfortunately closed as several have reviewed for much needed renovation and not scheduled to reopen until August 28, 2025. Thankfully the church featured at lower edge of the fortress is still open for visitors and religious services. It can only be accessed from the road that connects to the southeast side of the fortress. The church is small but features some impressive old religious murals and they were chanting while I was there. Just like other churches around town, dresscode is enforced and no photography inside.