The Tbilisi Cable Car (Georgian: საბაგირო, Sabagiro) is a modern and popular aerial tramway that offers a quick, scenic, and breathtaking ride from Rike Park in the city center to the historic Narikala Fortress and the towering Mother of Georgia statue. Since its re-opening in 2012, it has become one of Tbilisi’s most beloved attractions, offering stunning panoramic views of Old Tbilisi and the Mtkvari River.

The Ride and the View:

• Scenic Route: The cable car connects two key points of Tbilisi. The lower station is located in the modern and vibrant Rike Park, a popular recreational area near the Bridge of Peace. The ride ascends over the Mtkvari River and the colorful roofs of Old Tbilisi, providing a unique bird’s-eye view of landmarks like Metekhi Church, the Sioni Cathedral, and the Sulphur Baths district.

• A Quick Journey: The ride itself is relatively short, taking only about 2-3 minutes. This makes it an efficient way to travel from the lower city to the top of the hill, especially for those who prefer to avoid the steep hike up to the fortress.

• Modern and Safe: The cable car consists of several modern, enclosed cabins that can seat up to 8 people. They are equipped with clear glass panels, ensuring an unobstructed 360-degree view for passengers. Safety is a priority, and the cable car is known to close during adverse weather conditions like high winds or heavy rain.

   

Attractions at the Top:

• Narikala Fortress: The upper station of the cable car drops you off directly at the entrance to the ancient Narikala Fortress. This 4th-century citadel is a magnificent symbol of Tbilisi’s defensive history, and from its walls, you can enjoy some of the city’s most spectacular and expansive views.

• Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda): A short walk from the fortress, you will find the iconic 20-meter-tall aluminum statue of the Mother of Georgia. She holds a sword in one hand to symbolize a fierce defense against enemies and a cup of wine in the other to represent a warm welcome to friends, perfectly embodying the Georgian national character.

• Botanical Garden and Betlemi Church: From the upper station, you can also access the Tbilisi Botanical Garden and explore paths leading to attractions like the Upper Betlemi Church, a beautiful structure with its own courtyard and excellent city views. Many visitors enjoy taking the cable car up and then walking down through the historic streets of Old Tbilisi.

   

Visitor Information:

• Location (Lower Station): The main station is located in Rike Park, near Europe Square. It’s easily accessible on foot from the Avlabari Metro Station, as well as from the Old Town via the Bridge of Peace.

• Opening Hours: The cable car operates daily, typically from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM or later, though hours can vary by season.

• Tickets and Payment: To ride the cable car, you need to use a “Metromoney” card, which is the same card used for all public transport in Tbilisi. You can purchase this card for a small fee (2 GEL) at the station and load it with credit. The cost for a one-way trip is approximately 2.5 GEL. It is not possible to buy a paper ticket for a single ride; the Metromoney card is required.

   

The Tbilisi Cable Car is an essential part of the Tbilisi experience, offering a magical journey that combines a thrilling ride with a deep dive into the city’s history and unparalleled views.