The Dry Bridge Market is one of the great flea markets of the Caucasus and one of the most entertaining free things to do in Tbilisi. It sets up on and around the Dry Bridge, a short walk from the Presidential Palace, and has been nicknamed the market of memories because so much of what is sold is the contents of Georgian attics and cupboards. The bridge dates from the nineteenth century, and the nickname dry comes from the 1940s, when a branch of the Mtkvari that once flowed beneath it was redirected and a road built over its bed. The market in its present form took shape in the 1950s, when locals began selling their old possessions here. Today more than a hundred vendors lay out Soviet kitsch and household items, antique coins, Second World War medals, silver jewellery, old radios, antique dishware, ornate daggers and swords, scarves, paintings and the work of contemporary Georgian artists. Elderly craftsmen still make and sell handmade goods, and an open-air exhibition of local artists spreads through the nearby park.
How to visit
The market is held outdoors and is free to wander, with no entry fee. It is near the Presidential Palace, within a short walk of the old town and the river, and easy to include in a morning stroll. Bring cash in lari, because most stallholders do not take cards, and be prepared to bargain, which is part of the experience. Weekends are livelier, with more vendors and more visitors, but there is usually something to see on any day, and the market is best in dry weather.
What to expect
A maze of blankets, tables and display cases piled with objects with a story, from military badges and enamel signs to old cameras and carpets. Take your time and look closely, because the best finds are often under something else. Prices are flexible, and a friendly chat usually helps. Genuine antiques and reproductions sit side by side, so buy what you like rather than what you hope is rare, and ask about export rules if you are tempted by something old or valuable.
Making the most of it
Go in the morning, when the light is good and the vendors are fresh, then stop for coffee in a nearby cafe. Pair it with the old-town walk or the Georgian National Museum for a full day on the city’s history, and look for a hand-painted piece or a Soviet badge as an inexpensive, memorable souvenir.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided browse through an open-air flea market of antiques, Soviet memorabilia, art and handmade crafts, with bargaining expected.
Best time
Mornings and weekends for the biggest crowd of vendors; dry weather is best.
How long
One to two hours, longer if you like to browse.
Tips
Bring cash in lari, haggle with a smile and ask about export rules for antiques before you buy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Souvenir hunters, collectors and anyone who enjoys people-watching.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the Soviet badges and curiosities, but stalls are crowded and breakable items abound.
- Couples
- A fun, free browse that often ends with a small keepsake.
- Pair with
- The Georgian National Museum or the old-town walking tour.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Where is the Dry Bridge Market?+
It is on and around the Dry Bridge in central Tbilisi, a short walk from the Presidential Palace. It is easy to reach on foot from the old town.
Is the Dry Bridge Market free?+
Yes, the market is open-air and free to wander. You pay only for what you buy.
What can I buy at the Dry Bridge Market?+
Stalls sell Soviet memorabilia, antique coins, medals, silver jewellery, old radios, dishware, paintings, scarves and handmade crafts. Contemporary local art is also on display nearby.
Should I bargain at the market?+
Yes, haggling is part of the experience and prices are flexible. Bring cash in lari, as most vendors do not accept cards.
Why is it called the Dry Bridge?+
The name dates to the 1940s, when a branch of the Mtkvari river flowing under the bridge was redirected and a road was built over its former bed.
