Mtatsminda: the best views of Tbilisi from the hilltop park
Mtatsminda — meaning "sacred mountain" in Georgian — rises 770 metres above Tbilisi, giving the city its most distinctive skyline. From its summit, Mtatsminda Park offers 360° views over the Georgian capital, the Mtkvari valley and the Trialeti mountains to the south. A place where Tbilisi residents go to escape the summer heat and remember why they live in this city.
How to get up: the historic funicular
The most appealing way to reach Mtatsminda is the historic funicular, which has been operating since 1905. It departs from the Chonkadze station in the old town and reaches the summit in two stages, with an intermediate stop beside the Pantheon. The ticket costs about 2–3 GEL and the full journey takes about 10–15 minutes with spectacular views over the city.
You can also go up by taxi or car along the road that winds around the mountain.
The Mtatsminda Pantheon
At the funicular's intermediate station is the Mtatsminda Pantheon, the cemetery where Georgia's greatest writers, artists and public figures rest. Buried here are the poet Akaki Tsereteli, the writer Ilia Chavchavadze (declared a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church), the actor Lado Meskhishvili and many others. It is a quiet, beautiful place, very far from the tourist atmosphere.
Mtatsminda Park: rides and gastronomy
At the summit there is an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster and other attractions, very popular among Georgian families. There are restaurants with terraces and panoramic views where you can try traditional cuisine: khachapuri, khinkali and Georgian wine with the best view of Tbilisi as a backdrop.
The evening visit — when Tbilisi lights up — is especially recommended. Combine it with a walk down to Abanotubani for a perfect evening in Tbilisi.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Mtatsminda funicular cost?
The funicular costs about 2–3 GEL per journey (less than €1). There are discounts for children. It generally operates from 9:00 to 22:00 in summer, with reduced hours in winter. The park at the summit has a separate fee for some attractions.
Is it worth going up to Mtatsminda if you've already seen Narikala?
Yes, though both offer views of Tbilisi, the perspective is different. From Narikala you see the old town and Abanotubani. From Mtatsminda you see the whole city together, including the modern neighbourhoods and the Mtkvari River along its full course. They are complementary.
Is there anything to see at Mtatsminda beyond the park?
Yes, the historic Pantheon (cemetery of writers and artists) is a top-level cultural visit. The 6th-century church of St. David is also on the mountainside and is a place of pilgrimage and silence very different from the lively park at the summit.