If you’re curious about the lesser-seen side of Tbilisi, this Urbex (urban exploration) tour offers an exciting peek into some of Georgia’s most captivating abandoned sites. While many visitors stick to the city’s well-trodden attractions, this experience takes you into the shadows — into places rarely open to the public. It’s a rare chance to see what’s behind the locked doors of old cinemas, secret bunkers, and abandoned labs.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides aren’t just storytellers—they’re seasoned urban explorers who treat these sites with respect and genuine curiosity. Second, the accessibility to locations normally off-limits provides a rare thrill, especially if you’re into history, photography, or just love uncovering hidden corners of a city. The only caveat? The tour involves walking and exploring in somewhat rugged conditions, so comfortable shoes are a must.
This experience suits those who are adventurous, curious, and interested in offbeat history. Whether you’re a seasoned urbex enthusiast or simply someone eager for a unique story-driven tour, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Just keep in mind that the sites are abandoned and, therefore, may be a bit rough around the edges.
Key Points
- Exclusive Access: Visit sites generally closed to the public, including a secret underground bunker and an abandoned movie theater.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Led by experts with a passion for urbex, offering engaging stories and context.
- Comfortable, Practical: Wear sturdy shoes and casual clothing suited for walking and climbing around uneven surfaces.
- Photographic Opportunities: Bring your camera to capture hauntingly beautiful, forgotten places.
- Flexible Booking: Fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, with a private group experience.
- Transportation Included: Taxi transfer between locations ensures a smooth journey.
What to Expect from the Tour
This four-hour adventure is perfect for those who want to see a different side of Tbilisi. Starting at the entrance of Nadzaladevi metro station, your journey begins with a shared taxi ride that whisks you to the first site. Each location offers its own story and atmosphere, from eerie silence to striking visuals.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tbilisi.
The Abandoned Secret Command Bunker
Your first stop is the underground bunker, a relic of Georgia’s clandestine past. This space is surprisingly intact, with narrow corridors and hidden rooms that hint at its original purpose. Our guides will explain how it served as a command post, and you’ll get a sense of its strategic importance. Walking between the dimly lit halls, you’ll appreciate the contrast between its secretive purpose and now silent abandonment.
The Old Movie Theater
Next, you’ll explore a once-bustling cinema. It’s a surreal walk through a forgotten world—faded posters, broken seats, and a dusty screen. This site’s allure is not just its decay but the feeling of stepping into a place that once brought joy and entertainment. As one reviewer put it, “getting access to places like the cinema which are not open to the public” makes for a truly memorable experience. This stop is particularly photogenic, offering a perfect mix of nostalgia and decay.
The Abandoned Laboratory
The final site is a long-closed laboratory, adding a scientific and mysterious layer to the tour. Its sterile corridors are now overrun with nature, yet remnants of equipment and documents hint at its former purpose. Our guides will share insights into what kind of research might have taken place here, making it more than just a visual feast—it’s a glimpse into Georgia’s hidden scientific past.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy This Tour Offers Great Value
While the price includes the services of an expert guide, transportation, and access to these largely private sites, it’s the experience’s uniqueness that offers true value. For urban explorers and curious travelers alike, the chance to step into places normally off-limits elevates this tour from typical sightseeing. The guides’ knowledge adds layers of context that make the sites meaningful rather than just creepy ruins.
Many reviewers have expressed enthusiasm—one called it “genuinely one of the best things I’ve ever done in Tbilisi” and appreciated the guides’ respect for the sites. Another noted how the tour “surpassed all expectations,” especially the opportunity to visit the cinema, which is not open to the public. These authentic stories and the chance to see historic yet abandoned sites make the experience more meaningful.
The tour’s capacity as a private group enhances the experience, giving you a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind in planning.
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Detailed Breakdown of the Experience
Meeting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at the Nadzaladevi metro station entrance, a convenient central location. From there, a taxi, included in the price, whisks you to the first site. This setup ensures a comfortable start, avoiding the need for additional planning or navigation.
The Underground Bunker
Once inside the bunker, your guide’s storytelling brings history to life. Expect to walk through narrow corridors, peek into concealed rooms, and get a real sense of Georgia’s secretive Cold War history. The structure is surprisingly well-preserved, which is perfect for those who enjoy exploring intact ruins. The atmosphere is quiet, with a hint of mystery, making it ideal for photos and reflection.
The Cinema
Next, stepping into the abandoned movie theater feels like entering a forgotten film set. You’ll see the faded posters, cracked screens, and dusty seats—each telling a story of a different era. It’s a hauntingly beautiful setting that appeals to photographers and nostalgia buffs alike. The guides will share stories about the theater’s past, enriching your visit with context.
The Laboratory
The final stop, an abandoned scientific facility, offers an intriguing glimpse into Georgia’s scientific endeavors. The overgrown corridors and scattered equipment highlight the passage of time. Here, the guides explain what kind of research may have taken place, adding depth to the visual experience. It’s a quiet, contemplative space that invites you to imagine the activity that once filled these halls.
Authentic Experiences in a Safe Setting
Despite the sense of adventure, safety remains a priority. The guides are knowledgeable and respectful of the sites, ensuring you explore safely while still enjoying the thrill of discovery. Because transportation between locations is included, you won’t need to worry about logistics — just focus on the sites and stories.
Reviews and Feedback
Based on six reviews, this tour consistently earns a 5-star rating. Travelers praise the expert guides for their storytelling and exploration skills, with one reviewer noting, “they are not just guides but legit urban explorers.” The access to places like the cinema stands out as a highlight, and many plan to return for more urbex adventures in Georgia. The feedback confirms that this experience is memorable, offering a unique insight into Tbilisi’s abandoned sites, far from the usual tourist circuits.
The Sum Up
This A Journey Through Abandoned Wonders tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to see a different side of Tbilisi. It’s a well-balanced mix of history, adventure, and photography—delivered by guides who genuinely love these hidden places. The inclusion of private transportation, flexible booking, and the chance to access normally off-limits sites make it a compelling value.
If you’re intrigued by the stories behind abandoned buildings or enjoy uncovering forgotten corners of a city, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want a memorable, story-rich experience away from the crowds.
For those with a curiosity for history, an eye for photography, or a desire for authentic, offbeat experiences, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Georgia’s secretive, long-forgotten places. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes and keep an open mind—each site has its own story to tell, waiting for you to listen.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, transportation by taxi between locations is included in the price, making the day seamless and comfortable.
Where does the tour start and end? The tour begins at the entrance to Nadzaladevi metro station and ends back at the same meeting point.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about four hours, with starting times depending on availability.
Is this tour suitable for families? While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour involves walking and exploring abandoned sites, so it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with uneven surfaces.
What should I wear? Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring uneven, possibly dusty sites.
Can I take photos? Absolutely. Bringing a camera is encouraged to capture the haunting beauty of these forgotten places.
Is it a private group? Yes, the tour operates as a private experience, ensuring a more personalized adventure.
What language is the tour conducted in? The live guide speaks English.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there any special requirement to join? No specific requirements, just the usual comfort and curiosity for exploration.
This tour is a hidden gem for those eager to see Georgia’s abandoned secrets, all while enjoying the company of passionate guides who respect these sites. It’s a rare, authentic experience that offers both thrill and insight—perfect for travelers who want more than just the surface of Tbilisi.
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