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Tbilisi is one of those cities that sweeps you off your feet — a place where winding cobblestone lanes lead to grand Orthodox churches, and traditional sulfur baths sit alongside buzzing wine bars. It’s also a fantastic city for souvenir shopping, with treasures that reflect Georgia’s ancient traditions, artistic flair, and warm hospitality.

Based on local recommendations, finds from the city’s markets, and items loved by both Georgians and visitors, here’s your guide to the best souvenirs from Tbilisi — plus where to shop and tips for making the most of your time.

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Top 10 Souvenirs from Tbilisi, Georgia

1. Georgian Wine

Georgia is widely considered the birthplace of wine, with an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition. Bottles from regions like Kakheti or Imereti make for a perfect gift, especially wines aged in traditional qvevri clay vessels.

Look for small family-run wineries for the most authentic bottles.

2. Qvevri-Inspired Ceramics

Speaking of qvevri, you’ll find miniature clay pots modelled after these wine vessels, often sold as decorative pieces or functional pitchers.

3. Handmade Enamel Jewelry (Minankari)

This ancient technique involves decorating silver or gold with colorful enamel patterns. You’ll see it in earrings, pendants, and bracelets, often featuring Georgian motifs.

4. Churchkhela

Nicknamed the “Georgian Snickers,” this sweet treat is made from nuts dipped in thickened grape juice and dried into chewy ropes. It’s tasty, travels well, and comes in beautiful natural colors.

5. Georgian Spices

Local blends like khmeli suneli, blue fenugreek, and saffron are perfect for recreating Georgian dishes at home. Spice markets in Tbilisi are wonderfully aromatic.

6. Felted Wool Accessories

From warm slippers to colorful scarves, felted wool items are a cozy and traditional Georgian craft, especially popular in the colder months.

7. Polyphonic Music CDs

Georgia’s polyphonic singing is UNESCO-listed and deeply moving. Many cultural shops sell recordings from famous choirs — a beautiful cultural keepsake.

8. Khinkali or Supra-Themed Aprons

For a lighthearted gift, look for aprons and kitchen towels decorated with khinkali (dumplings), wine, and other symbols of Georgian feasts.

9. Traditional Textiles and Kilims

Handwoven rugs, tablecloths, and wall hangings often come from rural parts of Georgia but are sold in Tbilisi’s craft markets.

10. Iconography and Religious Art

Georgia’s Orthodox tradition inspires stunning paintings, crosses, and small icons, many hand-painted and sold near churches.

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Where to Shop in Tbilisi

• Dry Bridge Market:
  An open-air flea market where you’ll find antiques, Soviet memorabilia, enamel jewelry, and rugs. Great for browsing and bargaining.
• Meidan Bazaar:
  Located in the Old Town, this tunnel-like market sells wine, spices, ceramics, and textiles in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
• Deserter’s Bazaar:
  A sprawling market where locals shop for everything from fresh produce to household goods — plus a section for spices, churchkhela, and crafts.
• Artisan Boutiques in Sololaki & Old Town:
  Small, stylish shops selling minankari jewelry, handmade accessories, and ceramics.

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Shopping Tips for Tbilisi

• The currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Small markets prefer cash, but many boutiques accept cards.
• Bargaining is common at flea markets like Dry Bridge but less so in fixed-price shops.
• Pack liquids (like wine) carefully, especially if flying. Many shops offer travel-safe packaging.
• Support small producers when buying wine or crafts — Georgia’s artisan community is vibrant and worth encouraging.
• Avoid antiques or coins without checking export laws; some historic items cannot legally leave the country.

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Final Thoughts

Tbilisi is a city of deep traditions, artistic expression, and warm-hearted hospitality, and its souvenirs reflect all of that. Whether you bring home a bottle of qvevri-aged wine, a piece of enamel jewelry, or the sweet chewiness of churchkhela, you’ll be carrying a piece of Georgia’s story with you.

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