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Where to Find the Best Traditional Georgian Handicrafts and Souvenirs in Tbilisi

Tbilisi, with its rich cultural heritage, is an excellent place to find traditional Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs. The city’s markets, craft shops, and specialty stores offer a variety of unique items that reflect Georgia’s artistic traditions and craftsmanship. Here’s a guide to where you can find some of the best traditional Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs in Tbilisi:

Dry Bridge Market

Dry Bridge Market is one of the most popular spots for antiques, vintage items, and local crafts. Situated near the Dry Bridge over the Kura River, this bustling market is a goldmine for unique Georgian souvenirs.

What to Find:

  • Antiques and Memorabilia: Browse through old coins, Soviet-era artifacts, and vintage photographs.
  • Traditional Crafts: Look for handcrafted rugs, ceramics, and jewelry, all showcasing Georgian artistry.
  • Souvenirs: Find unique items like traditional Georgian knives, wooden carvings, and embroidered textiles.

Tips:

  • Bargain: Don’t be afraid to haggle over prices.
  • Explore: Spend time exploring various stalls to discover hidden gems.

Meidan Bazaar

Located beneath Meidan Square in the Old Town, Meidan Bazaar is a charming, covered market offering a blend of traditional Georgian products and artisanal crafts.

What to Find:

  • Local Crafts: Purchase handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and traditional Georgian textiles.
  • Souvenirs: Shop for Georgian wine, handmade soaps, and traditional Georgian spices.
  • Artisanal Goods: Find unique items like hand-woven carpets and woodwork.

Tips:

  • Photographs: The historic setting provides excellent photo opportunities.
  • Interact: Engage with vendors to learn more about the crafts and their origins.

Fabrika Tbilisi

Fabrika Tbilisi is a creative hub located in a former Soviet sewing factory. It hosts a variety of artisan shops, galleries, and workshops.

What to Find:

  • Handcrafted Goods: Explore shops featuring handmade jewelry, leather goods, and artistic crafts.
  • Local Art: Discover works by local artists, including paintings, prints, and textiles.
  • Unique Souvenirs: Find contemporary items with a traditional twist, such as modernized Georgian crafts.

Tips:

  • Explore: The space is vibrant and diverse, with numerous stalls and shops to explore.
  • Workshops: Check out if there are any workshops or events during your visit.

Tbilisi Central Market (Tbilisi Market)

Located near the city center, Tbilisi Central Market is a bustling hub for fresh produce, but it also has a selection of traditional crafts and local products.

What to Find:

  • Local Products: Buy traditional Georgian foods like honey, jams, and spices.
  • Craft Items: Look for local handicrafts, including woven baskets and pottery.
  • Traditional Goods: Find Georgian textiles and handcrafted wooden items.

Tips:

  • Visit Early: The market is less crowded in the morning.
  • Cash: Bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.

Gldani Bazaar

Gldani Bazaar is a smaller, local market located in the Gldani district. It’s a great spot to experience everyday Georgian life and shop for fresh produce and local goods.

What to Find:

  • Local Produce: Find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local dairy products.
  • Household Items: Purchase everyday household items at reasonable prices.
  • Community Feel: Experience a more intimate and local shopping experience.

Tips:

  • Cash: Bring cash, as many small vendors may not accept cards.
  • Explore: Take time to explore the market and interact with local vendors.

Ortachala Market

Ortachala Market is a large market located in the Ortachala district. It is known for its variety of food items, including fresh produce, meats, and traditional Georgian foods.

What to Find:

  • Food Variety: Enjoy a wide range of food products, from fresh vegetables and meats to traditional Georgian spices and herbs.
  • Local Atmosphere: Experience the lively atmosphere of a market frequented by locals.

Tips:

  • Haggling: Prices are generally fixed, but it’s worth asking if there’s room for negotiation.
  • Cash: Bring cash as credit cards are not always accepted.

Art Palace of Georgia

The Art Palace of Georgia, located in the city center, is a museum that also functions as a gallery and shop for traditional Georgian art.

What to Find:

  • Artisan Crafts: Purchase traditional Georgian art, including paintings and sculptures.
  • Souvenirs: Find high-quality crafts and textiles representing Georgian culture.
  • Unique Items: The museum shop often features exclusive items not available elsewhere.

Tips:

  • Explore Exhibits: Take time to explore the museum’s exhibits to gain insight into Georgian art and culture.
  • Check Shop Hours: The shop is usually open during museum hours.

Erekle II Street

Erekle II Street, located in the heart of Tbilisi’s Old Town, is lined with various shops selling traditional Georgian crafts and souvenirs.

What to Find:

  • Traditional Textiles: Look for beautifully embroidered garments and rugs.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Find unique pieces of Georgian jewelry.
  • Local Art: Purchase paintings and crafts by local artists.

Tips:

  • Stroll the Street: The street offers a variety of shops, so take your time to explore.
  • Engage: Engage with shopkeepers to learn more about the items and their origins.

Conclusion

Tbilisi’s markets, bazaars, and specialty shops offer a rich variety of traditional Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs. From the eclectic Dry Bridge Market to the artistic Fabrika Tbilisi, each location provides unique opportunities to find beautiful, handcrafted items that reflect Georgia’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for vintage collectibles, traditional crafts, or contemporary art with a Georgian twist, these spots are perfect for finding memorable souvenirs and experiencing the essence of Georgian artistry.