Georgia offers a rich tapestry of shopping experiences, from ancient markets brimming with local crafts to modern malls showcasing global brands. Whether you're strolling through Tbilisi’s historic streets, exploring Kutaisi’s bustling bazaars, or enjoying Batumi’s coastal markets, each city has its own unique offerings for shoppers looking to take home a piece of Georgian culture.
Must Visit Local Markets in Georgia
1. Old Town Tbilisi
Old Town Tbilisi, or Dzveli Tbilisi, is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique shopping experience. The area is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with charming antique shops, art galleries, and traditional Georgian handicraft stores. Here, you can find beautifully crafted ceramics, intricate jewelry, and handwoven textiles that reflect Georgia's rich cultural heritage. The atmosphere is vibrant, with street performers and artists adding to the lively ambiance. Don't miss the chance to explore the hidden courtyards and historic buildings that house these unique shops, offering a glimpse into Tbilisi's past.
2. Dezerter Bazaar, Tbilisi
Dezerter Bazaar is Tbilisi’s largest and most bustling market, offering a plethora of goods that cater to all your needs. From fresh produce and spices to handmade textiles and souvenirs, this market is a sensory overload. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices fills the air, while vendors enthusiastically showcase their products. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture, sample traditional Georgian delicacies, and pick up some unique items to take home.
3. Europe Square, Batumi
Europe Square in Batumi is a vibrant hub of activity, blending modern amenities with historical charm. Surrounded by stunning architecture and close to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot for shopping enthusiasts. The square features a mix of local boutiques and international brands, providing a diverse shopping experience. Its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the rest of Batumi’s shopping districts.
4. Meidan Bazaar, Tbilisi
Meidan Bazaar, nestled in the heart of Tbilisi’s Old Town, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and shopping. This underground market is housed in a historic caravanserai, adding an element of intrigue and charm to your shopping experience. Meidan Bazaar offers a wide array of traditional Georgian products, including handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, textiles, and local delicacies. Here you will find stalls brimming with beautifully woven carpets, intricate enamel jewelry, and unique ceramic pieces, each reflecting the rich heritage of Georgia.
5. Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi
Rustaveli Avenue is one of Tbilisi’s main thoroughfares and a prime shopping destination, offering a mix of history, culture, and modernity. Named after the medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, this iconic street is lined with a diverse array of shops, from high-end boutiques to local artisan stores. You can find everything from designer clothing and accessories to unique Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs. Street performers and artists often add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a delightful place to spend an afternoon or evening.
6. Dry Bridge Market, Tbilisi
Dry Bridge Market is a unique and vibrant flea market that is a treasure trove for antique lovers and collectors. Here, you can find an eclectic mix of items, from Soviet-era memorabilia and vintage cameras to old books, paintings, and handmade jewelry. The market is a hub for local artists and artisans who sell their creations, providing a great opportunity to purchase unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, with vendors eager to share the stories behind their wares. It’s a must-visit for those looking to find a special souvenir or simply enjoy the vibrant market culture.
7. Green Bazaar, Kutaisi
Green Bazaar in Kutaisi, also known as Samikitno Tbilisi, is a lively market known for its fresh produce and local delicacies. This bustling bazaar is the perfect place to sample and purchase Georgian cheeses, fresh fruits, and honey. Vendors offer a wide range of products, from spices and nuts to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market is a sensory delight, with the vibrant colors of the produce and the enticing aromas of freshly baked goods. It’s an excellent spot to experience local life and take home some authentic Georgian flavors.
Malls in Georgia for an Urban Shopping Experience
8. Galleria Tbilisi, Tbilisi
Galleria Tbilisi, located in the heart of Georgia's capital, is a premier shopping destination offering a blend of local and international brands. The mall spans several floors and features fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and lifestyle shops. Beyond shopping, Galleria Tbilisi offers various dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining, as well as entertainment facilities like a cinema and fitness center. The mall's elegant architecture and modern amenities create a comfortable shopping experience.
9. Batumi Mall, Batumi
Batumi Mall provides a modern shopping experience in the heart of the city. This contemporary shopping center features a wide range of fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and entertainment facilities. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, high-tech gadgets, or simply a place to relax and enjoy a meal, Batumi Mall has it all. The mall’s convenient location and extensive selection of stores make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Batumi Mall offers a comprehensive and enjoyable shopping experience.
10. Tbilisi Mall, Tbilisi
For a modern shopping experience, Tbilisi Mall is the place to be. This expansive shopping center houses a wide range of international brands, designer boutiques, and entertainment options. You can find everything from high-end fashion and electronics to home goods and beauty products. The mall also features a variety of dining options, ranging from fast food to fine dining, making it a great place to spend a day shopping and relaxing. With its modern amenities and wide selection of stores, Tbilisi Mall provides a contrast to the traditional markets and offers a contemporary shopping experience.
What to Buy in Georgia
- Traditional Georgian Wine: You can buy the famous Saperavi (a robust red wine) and Rkatsiteli (a crisp white wine). Many wine shops and vineyards offer tastings, making it easier to choose the perfect bottle to take home.
- Enamel Jewelry (Minankari): Minankari, or Georgian enamel jewelry, is a centuries-old art form that involves decorating metal with colorful enamels.You can find everything from earrings and necklaces to rings and bracelets in this style.
- Georgian Spices and Sauces: You can buy Svaneti salt, a unique blend of salt mixed with local herbs and spices, adjika, a spicy paste made from chili peppers, garlic, and herbs, and tkemali, a sour plum sauce.
- Handcrafted Carpets: Georgian carpets are renowned for their intricate handwoven patterns and high-quality craftsmanship. Each region of Georgia has its own distinctive style, making each carpet unique.
- Georgian Pottery: Traditional Georgian pottery, particularly those made from clay, is both functional and decorative. Qvevri, the large clay vessels used for wine fermentation, are iconic, but there are also smaller pottery items like mugs, plates, and decorative pieces.
- Georgian Tea and Herbal Infusions: Georgia has a long history of tea cultivation, particularly in the western regions such as Guria and Adjara. Georgian black and green teas are known for their distinct flavors and quality.
Shopping in Georgia offers a diverse and enriching experience, blending traditional markets with modern shopping centers. From the historic streets of Old Town Tbilisi and the bustling Dezerter Bazaar to the vibrant Kutaisi markets and the scenic Batumi Boulevard, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Georgian culture and lifestyle.