Sulfur Baths (Abanotubani)

★★★ Abanotubani — The Bath District

Tbilisi owes its name and existence to the natural sulfur springs that have bubbled up from the earth here for millennia. The Bath District Abanotubani with its characteristic brick vaults is the historical heart of the city — and one of the most unique experiences in all of Georgia.

The baths have operated on the same principle since the 13th century: Natural, sulfur-rich thermal water (approx. 40–50°C) flows into underground pools where you can wash, soak, and get massaged. The smell of sulfur (egg smell) takes some getting used to at first, but your skin and muscles will thank you.

The Most Important Baths

• Chreli Abano (Colorfully Tiled Bath): The most photogenic bath with its turquoise-blue tiled facade. Private cabins from simple to luxurious. From 30 GEL (9€) for a private room (1 hour). Massage extra (20–30 GEL).
• Orbeliani Bath: The iconic blue-tiled facade in Persian style is the landmark of the district. Renovated and comfortable. Private rooms from 50 GEL.
• Royal Bath: Historically the bath of kings. More upscale atmosphere. Private rooms from 70 GEL.
• Bath No. 5: The people's bath — public pools (men and women separated) for only 5 GEL (1.50€). Most authentic experience, but rustic.

What to Expect?

In a private room (recommended for first-time visitors):

1. You get a vaulted room with a hot sulfur pool, a cold shower, and a stone bench.
2. Soak in the hot water (15–20 min.).
3. Optional: Kisi Massage — a masseur scrubs you with a rough glove (Kisi) and "kneads" every muscle. Sounds brutal, feels fantastic afterwards.
4. Alternate between hot and cold until you feel reborn.

Alexander Pushkin wrote in 1829: "I have experienced nothing more luxurious in my life than the baths of Tbilisi." That holds true to this day.