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Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi Layover Guide (TBS)

What are you looking for in TBS?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Tbilisi Airport (TBS) is an international airport located 17 km (10.5 miles) southeast of downtown Tbilisi, Georgia. The airport officially opened in 1952. Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and distinctive architecture. It’s considered a gateway between Europe and Asia and is celebrated for its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and a growing reputation as a dynamic tourist and business destination.

Can you leave Tbilisi Airport (TBS) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes—if you're visa-exempt or hold a valid Georgian transit or entry visa, you may exit Tbilisi International Airport during a layover. Nationals of visa-exempt countries enjoy visa-free entry up to 365 days. Other travelers must obtain a Category T transit visa or e-Visa in advance. Check entry requirements before travel. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Tbilisi Old Town Meander through winding cobblestone streets, vibrant balconies and colorful houses showcasing centuries of history. Discover charming cafés, galleries and hidden courtyards in this atmospheric district that beautifully preserves Tbilisi’s soul. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) or Bus #37 to Didube Metro (~45 min total).)
• Narikala Fortress Perch atop steep hill offering panoramic panoramas of Tbilisi’s rooftops, winding Kura River and majestic Mtatsminda skyline. Explore ancient stone ramparts, hidden churches and commanding views that evoke medieval grandeur. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) or Bus #37 + Metro to Avlabari (~50 min).)
• Sameba Cathedral Marvel at one of Eastern Europe’s largest Orthodox cathedrals, crowned by gilded domes and intricate frescoes. Wander serene gardens and ascend nearby terraces for sweeping city vistas beneath azure skies. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min) or Bus #37 + Metro to Avlabari (~50 min).)
• Rustaveli Avenue Stroll along Tbilisi’s grand boulevard adorned with ornate facades, theaters and museums. Pop into elegant, cozy cafés, shop Georgian artisan boutiques and admire Soviet-era monuments nestled among modern urban vibrancy. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min) or Bus #37 + Metro to Rustaveli (~50 min).)
• Bridge of Peace Cross the striking glass-and-steel pedestrian bridge spanning the Kura River, illuminated by thousands of LED lights at night. Enjoy riverside promenades and stunning, iconic modern architecture juxtaposed with ancient landmarks. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) or Bus #37 + short walk (~50 min).)
• Sulphur Baths District Relax in historic sulphur bathhouses fed by natural hot springs beneath pastel chimneys. Experience traditional Georgian sauna rituals and steam rooms before wandering nearby art galleries and charming tea houses. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) or Bus #37 + Metro to Avlabari (~50 min).)
• Dry Bridge Market Browse Tbilisi’s famous flea market, where locals sell antiques, Soviet memorabilia, vinyl records and handmade crafts. Hunt for unique souvenirs while mingling with friendly vendors in an open-air bazaar vibe. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min) or Bus #37 + Metro to Rustaveli + short walk (~60 min).)
• Mtatsminda Park Ascend to Mtatsminda Park via funicular tram for thrilling rides, Ferris wheel and panoramic city views. Savor Georgian snacks at hillside cafes against a backdrop of sunset-lit skyline and greenery. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min) or Bus #37 to Didube + funicular (~60 min).)

Things to Do in Tbilisi Airport (TBS)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Silk Lounge on the second level of the departures area offers comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, beverages, fast Wi-Fi, newspapers and flight information screens. Access via Priority Pass, business class ticket or pay-per-use fee. Open daily from 06:00 to 22:00. Seating for 50, quiet workspaces, showers and panoramic runway views. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
While there is no onsite airport hotel at Tbilisi Airport (TBS), several comfortable budget and boutique hotels are located within a 10-minute drive, including the Crowne Plaza, Hotel Tbilisi, and ibis Styles. Many offer free shuttle services, 24-hour front desk support and competitive rates starting from USD 40 per night. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Tbilisi Airport features dedicated rest zones with ergonomic seating and a handful of reclining chairs in the transit area. Ambient lighting and free Wi-Fi create a calm atmosphere, but there are no formal sleeping pods. Quiet corners near Gates 4 and 6 are popular for quick naps between flights.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout all public areas of Tbilisi Airport. Simply connect to the “TBS_Free_WiFi” network and accept the terms. There are no time limits or data caps. Charging stations with USB ports and power outlets are strategically placed near seating areas and workstations for convenience and comfort.

SIM/eSIM Card: SIM and eSIM cards from local operators (Geocell, Magti, Beeline) are sold at kiosks in the arrivals hall. Packages include voice, data and SMS bundles starting at 5 GEL. eSIM activation is available via QR code for travelers with compatible devices. Top-up vouchers are also sold 24/7 at self-service vending machines. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Tbilisi Airport (TBS) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Licensed taxis queue outside the arrivals terminal with fixed fares to Tbilisi city center ranging from 30 to 40 GEL. Official airport taxis display yellow license plates and a numbered roof sign. Ride-hail apps like Bolt and Yandex operate here 24/7, offering cashless payments. Journey time is about 20–30 minutes.

Train: Modern electric trains connect Tbilisi Airport station with the city’s Central station in approximately 40 minutes. Services run every 30–60 minutes between 07:00 and 23:00. Single-ride tickets cost around 1 GEL and can be purchased onboard or at the station kiosk. Return tickets cost 2 GEL from kiosks. more info

Bus: Route 37 Airport Express coaches link Tbilisi Airport with City Hall bus station every 30–45 minutes from 06:00 to 23:00. Single tickets cost 0.50 GEL (paid onboard) or via mobile wallet. Journey time is approximately 35–45 minutes. Buses are comfortable and air-conditioned with overhead luggage racks. more info

Shuttle: Private shuttle vans operate between the airport and major hotels and the city center. Pre-book online or through service counters in the arrivals hall. Vans accommodate up to eight passengers with complimentary Wi-Fi. Fares start at 10 GEL per person. Service runs from 06:00 to 22:00 daily, ensuring reliable punctual transfers.

Car rentals: Several international car rental agencies (Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Budget, City Car) have desks in the arrivals hall open 24/7. Vehicles include economy, SUVs and luxury models with unlimited mileage options. Minimum rental age is 21 with a valid driver’s license and credit card deposit. Rates start from 30 GEL per day. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Tbilisi Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking zones adjacent to the terminal. Short-term parking (first hour free, then 1 GEL per hour) suits quick drop-offs. Long-term parking rates are 10 GEL per day. Payment can be made at automated kiosks via cash, card or mobile app before exit under CCTV surveillance.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

A staffed 24-hour left-luggage office operates near the check-in area offering secure baggage storage and wrapping services. Rates start at 10 GEL per bag for up to 24 hours, with multi-day discounts available. Lockers are not provided. Office hours coincide with terminal operations (05:00–00:00). Retrieval requires ticket presentation and photo ID. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Tbilisi Airport (TBS) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks