Mount Mtatsminda rises directly above the city centre, and its summit park is the place where Tbilisians go for fresh air, long views and a Sunday outing. The park covers around 100 hectares of forest and clearings, with amusement areas for all ages that include a ghost tower and a dancing tree, a small train that tours the grounds, quadricycles to hire and a scattering of restaurants, cafes, wine shops and souvenir stalls. Above all, the summit looks down on the entire city: the river, the old town, the domes of Holy Trinity Cathedral and the bridges, all arranged below you like a model. The easiest way up is the funicular, which runs from a lower station on Daniel Chonkadze Street to the upper station in about three minutes, and the ride itself is a charming bit of old Tbilisi. For walkers, a trail leads from the park through the woods to Turtle Lake, with picnic spots along the way.
How to visit
The lower funicular station is on Daniel Chonkadze Street, reached by taxi or a short walk uphill from Rustaveli Avenue. The ride takes about three minutes and drops you at the upper station, a short stroll from the park. Tickets for the funicular and for the rides are sold separately, so check what you need before queueing. The park is open daily, but opening hours and operating days of rides vary by season, so confirm before you go.
What to expect
A mix of old fairground charm and big views. Families head for the rides, couples for a drink at a terrace, and walkers for the forest path. The Pantheon of Georgian writers and public figures and the church of Saint David sit on the slopes nearby, which makes it easy to add some history. On a clear evening the city lights come on below you and the TV tower glows behind, which is the main reason many visitors come at sunset.
Making the most of it
Plan for two to three hours, and bring a jacket since it is cooler up here than in the city, especially after dark. In summer the park is a welcome escape from the heat. Choose a clear day, since mist can hide the view, and consider walking down through the old streets if you have energy, which takes you back toward the centre.
What to expect
The experience
A funicular ride to a hilltop park with city views, amusement rides, cafes and a forest trail, explored at your own pace.
Best time
A clear afternoon moving into sunset, when the city lights come on, or a summer day when the hilltop is cooler than the centre.
How long
Two to three hours, longer if you walk the trail to Turtle Lake.
Tips
Bring a jacket, check ride and funicular hours before you go and choose a clear day for the best view.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants the widest view of Tbilisi without a long climb.
- Families
- Rides, open space and a funicular make this one of the best family outings in the city.
- Couples
- A drink on a terrace as the city lights come on is hard to beat.
- Pair with
- Rustaveli Avenue and the old town for dinner after you come down.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
How do I get up to Mtatsminda Park?+
Take the funicular from the lower station on Daniel Chonkadze Street, which reaches the upper station in about three minutes. You can also walk or take a taxi.
What is there to do at Mtatsminda Park?+
The park has amusement rides, a small tour train, quadricycles, restaurants, cafes and shops, plus grassy areas and a forest trail. The main draw is the view over the whole city.
Is Mtatsminda Park good for children?+
Yes, it has rides for all ages and plenty of open space. Funicular and ride tickets are sold separately.
Can I walk from Mtatsminda Park to Turtle Lake?+
Yes, a trail runs through the forest from the park to Turtle Lake, with picnic spots on the way. Wear shoes with grip.
When is the best time to visit?+
Go on a clear day, ideally in the late afternoon so you can watch the city lights come on. It is cooler than the centre in summer, so bring a jacket after dark.
