Tbilisi welcomed over 7.1 million visitors in 2023, marking a 26% increase from the previous year, according to the Georgian National Tourism Administration. With its mix of history, art, food, and affordability, it’s no surprise the capital of Georgia is topping traveler wishlists worldwide.
Among the many places visitors search to stay, Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel often appears as a leading option – especially for those drawn to the city’s ancient charm. Nestled near the famous sulfur baths and cobbled streets of the Old Town, it attracts those looking for an atmospheric, walkable stay in one of the city’s most photographed quarters.
But if you’re deciding where to stay in Tbilisi, Old Tiflis is just one piece of the puzzle. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel offers – and compare it with top-rated city center alternatives like the stylish and modern Blueberry Nights Hotel, located near Rustaveli Avenue. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning your second trip, you’ll find practical insights here to help you choose the best boutique experience for your stay.
Spotlight: Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel
Tucked into the cobblestone streets of Old Town, Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel places guests just steps from some of Tbilisi’s most iconic sights. With direct views of the famous sulfur baths and within walking distance to landmarks like the Narikala Fortress and Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, it’s a classic choice for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s centuries-old charm.
The hotel itself blends traditional architecture with regional flair. Stone walls, wrought-iron balconies, and wood-framed windows nod to Tbilisi’s layered past. Many guests appreciate its character-rich atmosphere, especially from the terrace, which overlooks the tiled domes of Abanotubani and the hillside beyond.
What Stands Out
Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel earns praise for its location – easily its biggest draw. Guests love the direct access to Old Town’s vibrant streets, cafes, and historical points. The terrace is another highlight, offering a panoramic perspective that’s particularly photogenic at sunset. For travelers interested in Tbilisi’s natural hot springs, the hotel sits just above the famed sulfur baths, making it a convenient and atmospheric base.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its charm, reviews often point out a few drawbacks:
- Small Room Sizes: Several guests mention that rooms feel tight, particularly for couples traveling with luggage or staying longer than a few nights.
- Outdated Interiors: While the exterior reflects traditional Georgian design, interiors occasionally fall short. Some reviews note dated linens, basic furnishings, and lack of attention to detail.
- Mixed Amenity Experience: Guests have reported inconsistent Wi-Fi, limited breakfast variety, and occasional noise issues due to its central, tourist-heavy location.
For travelers prioritizing historical ambiance and walkability over comfort and space, Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel delivers. But for those who value updated design and modern amenities, it might feel a bit worn around the edges.
Who Should Stay at the Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel?
Perfect for History Buffs, Romantic Travelers, and Photographers
Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel appeals to a very specific kind of traveler – someone drawn to heritage, scenery, and the slow charm of historic cities. If your idea of a perfect stay includes wandering narrow alleyways, sipping coffee near 19th-century architecture, and waking up to views of red-tiled rooftops and centuries-old bathhouses, this hotel is likely to feel just right.
Couples looking for a romantic setting will find the area surrounding the hotel ideal for intimate walks, candlelit dinners, and sunset photos with panoramic backdrops. Photographers, too, will find inspiration in every direction—whether it’s the winding staircases of Old Town or the steam rising from the sulfur baths just across the way.
Best For:
- Travelers who want to be steps away from the Narikala Fortress, one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints.
- Visitors prioritize proximity to the historic sulfur baths – the hotel sits directly above Abanotubani, one of the oldest parts of the city.
- Guests who value character over modernity, and don’t mind trading sleek interiors for atmosphere and location.
- Early risers and explorers, who plan to spend most of their day out in the city and return to a cozy room in the evening.
It’s not for everyone – but for the right kind of guest, Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel offers a storybook base in one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Why Choose a City Center Hotel Like Blueberry Nights
While the Old Town holds undeniable charm, staying in the city center opens up a different kind of Tbilisi – one that’s contemporary, artistic, and highly walkable. Blueberry Nights Hotel, located just off Rustaveli Avenue, delivers exactly that. It’s a boutique stay designed for travelers who want more space, better sleep, and access to the cultural heartbeat of the city – without sacrificing style or comfort.
Spacious, Light-Filled Rooms with a Modern Touch
Guests often note how surprising the room sizes are at Blueberry Nights, especially compared to Old Town boutique hotels where space tends to be limited. The layout balances clean design with functionality, and each room comes with large windows offering views of Tbilisi’s eclectic rooftops and courtyards.
Unlike the historical properties that often feel cramped or outdated, Blueberry Nights leans into minimalist decor, natural light, and thoughtful tech upgrades. Each room features a home cinema setup with a high-definition projector and streaming access, plus a curated vinyl collection with a premium sound system—a feature no other hotel in Tbilisi offers.
Walkable to Rustaveli, Nightlife, and Tbilisi’s Best Dining
The hotel’s location on Chovelidze Street places you within a 5-minute walk of Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s central boulevard. From there, you can reach the Opera House, National Gallery, and dozens of cafés, wine bars, and boutiques. It’s an ideal base for those looking to blend sightseeing with dining and nightlife.
Whether you’re stepping out to explore the arts scene or heading back after a late dinner at Lolita—the popular restaurant directly connected to the hotel – you’re always close to the action, without being in the middle of heavy tourist traffic.
Designed for the Modern Traveler
Blueberry Nights caters to both business and leisure guests, offering a blend of quiet comfort and creative energy. Unlike older hotels where Wi-Fi is unreliable and outlets are sparse, every room at Blueberry is equipped with high-speed connectivity, charging stations, and quiet zones perfect for reading, streaming, or working remotely.
And because it’s less touristy, you’ll often find more locals than large tour groups—creating a more authentic, grounded feel. Guest reviews repeatedly highlight the calm atmosphere, thoughtful design, and the personal, attentive service that stands out in a city growing rapidly in popularity.
Old Town vs. City Center: How to Choose?
Choosing between Old Town and Tbilisi’s City Center comes down to what kind of experience you’re after. Both areas offer charm, walkability, and access to cultural landmarks – but they cater to different traveler needs. Here’s how to weigh your options across five key factors:
1. Atmosphere
Old Town is where time slows down. Winding alleys, pastel-colored balconies, and open-air cafés make it feel like a preserved fragment of Tbilisi’s past. It’s perfect for history lovers or anyone wanting to stay immersed in traditional architecture and local street life.
The city center – especially near Rustaveli Avenue – offers a more contemporary energy. It’s where modern galleries meet historic theaters, and where creative spaces thrive next to business hubs. If you prefer design-forward hotels, independent shops, and curated dining, this part of the city feels more dynamic.
2. Budget
Old Town hotels tend to cover a wide price range, but you often pay a premium for character and location—even when room sizes or amenities feel limited.
City center hotels like Blueberry Nights often offer better value for space and features. You’re more likely to find larger rooms, upgraded interiors, and modern conveniences at similar, or even lower, price points.
3. Convenience
Old Town wins for proximity to historical attractions like Narikala Fortress, the sulfur baths, and the Botanical Garden. But traffic restrictions and narrow streets can make airport transfers or day trips a bit more complicated.
In contrast, the city center provides easier transport links, wide boulevards, and faster access to metro stations, car services, and cultural venues. It’s a smart base for travelers who want to explore beyond Old Town or mix sightseeing with meetings and events.
4. Noise Level
Old Town gets crowded during peak hours, especially near the bathhouses or during festival weekends. The charm comes with background music, tour groups, and the echo of foot traffic on cobblestones.
City center streets can also be busy, but hotels like Blueberry Nights are tucked just far enough from the main road to offer a quieter night’s sleep, especially for light sleepers.
5. Safety
Both areas are considered safe for travelers, even at night. That said, Old Town’s maze-like layout can feel confusing for first-time visitors, especially after dark. City center streets tend to be well-lit, clearly marked, and easier to navigate, especially for solo travelers or late arrivals.
Why Blueberry Nights Hotel Is a Hidden Gem
A Quiet Standout in Tbilisi’s City Center
Just a few steps from Rustaveli Avenue, Blueberry Nights Hotel blends boutique charm with a distinctly modern identity. Unlike hotels that lean heavily on tradition, Blueberry Nights was designed with the present in mind, offering sunlit rooms, immersive in-room entertainment, and a creative spirit that mirrors the surrounding neighborhood. Located at 7 Chovelidze Street and directly connected to the acclaimed Restaurant Lolita, the hotel is more than a place to sleep—it’s a base for travelers who care about design, culture, and thoughtful details.
Room Options That Prioritize Space, Light, and Style
Each of the hotel’s rooms is filled with natural light and views that frame authentic urban scenes – from leafy courtyards to old stone facades. Guests can choose between several room types, all featuring projector-based movie systems, premium streaming, and high-fidelity vinyl setups curated by local artists. Instead of basic hotel furniture and forgettable decor, Blueberry Nights offers a mix of comfort and character.
Whether you’re visiting for business or planning a slow trip through Tbilisi’s neighborhoods, the rooms are designed for more than just overnight stays – they invite you to stay in, slow down, and enjoy the space.
Amenities That Reflect the City’s Creative Pulse
Blueberry Nights stands out not only for what’s inside the rooms, but also for what surrounds them. Guests enjoy:
- In-room cinemas with HD projection and curated content
- Vinyl libraries in every room, paired with quality audio gear
- On-site dining at Lolita, one of the city’s most popular restaurants and gathering spots
- A central location that stays quiet at night but places you minutes from theaters, galleries, and shops
Service is another high point. Reviews often mention the attentive, friendly team, who bring a more personal approach than most larger hotels in the city.
Blueberry Nights may not show up first in every guidebook yet, but it consistently earns top ratings from travelers who discover it. If you’re looking for something less obvious, more refined, and better suited for both rest and exploration, this hotel quietly outshines the more crowded options nearby.
Nearby Attractions from Blueberry Nights
Staying at Blueberry Nights Hotel means you’re never more than a few minutes from some of Tbilisi’s most vibrant and culturally rich locations. While Old Town caters to historic sightseeing, this part of the city, the Rustaveli corridor, offers a more contemporary, curated experience. It’s a favorite among locals for good reason.
Here are the Top 10 Things to Do near Blueberry Nights Hotel.
Final Tips on Booking Your Tbilisi Hotel
Whether you’re leaning toward the character of Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel or the design-forward vibe of Blueberry Nights, planning ahead makes a noticeable difference in both price and availability. Tbilisi’s hotel scene has grown quickly over the past few years—but so has international interest in visiting the city.
1. Compare Rates Across Platforms
Prices can vary significantly between booking sites and official hotel pages. Always cross-check at least two major platforms (such as Booking.com or Hotels.com), and then visit the hotel’s official website to see if direct booking offers better perks = many boutique hotels provide free upgrades or welcome drinks when you book directly.
Pro tip: Blueberry Nights often lists room-specific perks on its own site that aren’t shown on third-party platforms. Explore rates and availability here.
2. Book Early for Peak Events and Holidays
Tbilisi hosts several high-profile festivals and cultural events throughout the year – Tbilisoba (October), New Wine Festival (May), and ArtGene (July) are just a few. Hotels near city center and Old Town fill up quickly during these periods, often months in advance.
If your travel dates overlap with a public holiday or major event, aim to book at least 6–8 weeks ahead. Last-minute options will either be limited or significantly more expensive.
3. Choose the Right Hotel for the Trip You’re Planning
If your focus is on historical landmarks, photo walks, and soaking in traditional bathhouses, Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel offers the right location. On the other hand, if you prefer access to galleries, nightlife, shopping, and a more modern hotel experience, Blueberry Nights Hotel offers a quieter, more spacious stay just minutes from the city’s cultural core.
By recognizing what kind of stay you want—immersive and historical vs. curated and creative—you’ll avoid mismatched expectations and make the most of your time in Tbilisi.
FAQs
Where is the Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel located?
Old Tiflis Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Abanotubani, the city’s historic sulfur bath district. It sits just beneath the Narikala Fortress, with direct views over the tiled domes of the baths and the narrow lanes of Old Town. The address places guests within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Metekhi Bridge, Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, and the Botanical Garden.
What’s the difference between staying in Old Town vs. City Center Tbilisi?
Staying in Old Town offers a deeply historical experience, narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and proximity to Tbilisi’s oldest landmarks. It’s ideal for those who want to explore the city’s past on foot.
In contrast, the City Center, especially areas around Rustaveli Avenue, blends modern culture with walkable convenience. You’ll find theaters, contemporary galleries, and a broader selection of dining and nightlife options. Hotels like Blueberry Nights offer larger rooms, updated interiors, and a calmer atmosphere that’s better suited for extended stays or business trips.
Is Blueberry Nights Hotel walkable to tourist sites?
Yes. Blueberry Nights Hotel is centrally located on Chovelidze Street, just a few minutes’ walk from Rustaveli Avenue, one of Tbilisi’s main cultural corridors. From the hotel, you can easily reach the Opera House, National Museum, Vera Park, and several key shopping streets on foot. Even the edge of Old Town is walkable within 20–25 minutes, or a short taxi ride away.
Are there budget-friendly boutique hotels in Tbilisi?
Yes, Tbilisi offers a wide range of boutique hotels that balance design and affordability. While some, like Old Tiflis, charge more for location, and others like Blueberry Nights provide modern amenities and spacious rooms at mid-range prices, there are also budget-focused boutique stays throughout Vera, Sololaki, and Avlabari. The key is to book early, especially during festival seasons, and look for direct deals on hotel websites for the best rates.
