Ambassadori Hotel Tbilisi

Ambassadori is the choice if you want to stay in the old city with the comforts of a big hotel. It stands on Shavteli Street, the quiet lane of churches, galleries and the Gabriadze puppet theatre on the right bank of the Mtkvari, a few minutes on foot from the Bridge of Peace, Freedom Square and the wine bars and restaurants of the old town. The story began in 2004 with a restaurant on the site, which grew into a seven-room hotel and then, after a new building, into the current 121-room property. Facilities are those of a resort: an indoor pool, a spa and beauty salon, a sauna and steam room, a gym, a casino, two restaurants including Daira and Mozaiko, and a terrace looking over the rooftops of the old town towards Narikala. Expedia lists it as a five-star property with an excellent guest rating of 8.6.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at 17 Shavteli Street, a short walk from the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, and the leaning clock tower of the Gabriadze theatre. The Bridge of Peace and Freedom Square are about five minutes on foot, the National Museum and Shardeni Street about eight, and Rike Park and the cable car to Narikala lie just across the bridge. Avlabari metro station is about fifteen minutes away on foot, and the airport is under half an hour by car.

Rooms: the 121 rooms and suites range from standard and executive rooms to family rooms and the Ambassador Suites, decorated in a classic style; ask for a room on a higher floor for old-town and river views.

Who it suits: first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere in the old town, families who appreciate the pool, and travellers who want full hotel service rather than a boutique feel.

Good to know: free self parking is a rare plus in the old town. Check whether breakfast is in your rate, and book a table on the Mozaiko terrace for sunset.