Looking for a summer vacation that won’t cost a fortune? The answer lies in one European city that offers a fascinating experience at unbelievably low prices. Georgia and its capital Tbilisi have become the new up-and-coming tourist destination, and the reason is clear – the city offers a perfect combination of rich culture and remarkably low prices.
An extensive study conducted by the company Bounce examined costs in 70 leading cities across Europe, including hotels, food, drinks, and transportation. The result? Tbilisi wins the title of the most affordable destination on the continent. The study also took into account the number of free attractions available to tourists.
The numbers are impressive: A weekend in Tbilisi will cost you just NIS 520 for accommodation, while half a liter of local beer sells for a symbolic price of NIS 6.3. But that’s just the beginning – the city offers a wide range of free attractions to suit every taste.
Attractions That Won’t Cost You a Shekel
Two of the most prominent free attractions are the Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Bridge of Peace. The cathedral is stunning in its architectural design and is located within beautifully maintained gardens, ideal for a relaxing stroll. The Bridge of Peace, by contrast, is a piece of modern architectural art that spans the Mtkvari River. The view becomes especially enchanting after dark when thousands of LED lights create a sparkling light show.
When it’s time to taste the local cuisine, another pleasant surprise awaits. A full three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs less than NIS 126. Want something simpler? A casual lunch for two in a basic restaurant will cost just NIS 63.
No visit to Georgia is complete without trying its two standout traditional dishes. Khachapuri – a special cheese-filled bread that tastes somewhat like a rich pizza – is a must for every visitor. The second dish worth trying is Khinkali – steamed dumplings similar to Chinese soup dumplings, only filled with unique Georgian spices, meat, and delicious broth.
Even getting around the city is surprisingly inexpensive. A one-kilometer taxi ride costs about the same as a beer, while public transportation is even cheaper – with an average ticket price of just one shekel.