Georgia offers a wonderful shopping experience not only with its historical structures, mountains, and unique cuisine, but also with its attractive prices, global brands, and local boutiques. Especially in major cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, there are massive shopping malls (Shopping Malls) that draw attention with their modern architecture. If you want to both buy souvenirs and benefit from modern facilities during your holiday, this guide is just for you!
1. Tbilisi Shopping Malls
Tbilisi has become one of the trade and fashion centers of the Caucasus. The most popular malls in the city are:
East Point (East Point Mall)
One of Tbilisi's largest open-air concept shopping and entertainment centers. It is located at the eastern entrance of the city. It houses international clothing brands, a giant movie theater, a hypermarket (Carrefour), a bowling alley, and various restaurants. It is ideal for families and those who want to spend a great deal of time.
Tbilisi Mall
A modern and multi-story massive mall located in the Digomi area in the north of the city. It is one of the first places where you can find popular global clothing brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, and Mango together. With its large parking lot, food court area, and electronics stores, it is a complete attraction center.
City Mall Saburtalo
Located in the Saburtalo district, closer to the city center. Its transportation is quite easy (accessible by metro). Frequently preferred by locals, this mall is packed with clothing, cosmetics, and technology stores. It also features a great supermarket and children's play areas inside.
2. Batumi Shopping Spots
Although there aren't as many massive malls in the Black Sea resort city of Batumi as there are in Tbilisi, there are spots that will more than meet your needs:
Batumi Mall
Located on one of the central streets of the city, Batumi Mall is a compact shopping center where you can find clothing, cosmetics, and souvenirs. Being within walking distance to the beach and hotels provides a great advantage for tourists.
Metro City Forum
Batumi's new favorite shopping and living center. It is located close to the airport and right by the seaside. It includes international brands, restaurants, cinema, and entertainment areas. You can enjoy the Black Sea view while shopping at the same time.
3. Where and What to Buy Outside of Malls?
In addition to modern malls in Georgia, traditional markets and streets where you can find authentic and local products also attract great attention:
Dry Bridge Market (Tbilisi)
Established on the historic Dry Bridge, this open-air flea market is a treasure for antique enthusiasts. You can find Soviet-era badges, old cameras, handmade daggers, silver jewelry, antique carpets, and paintings by local artists here. Bargaining for prices is possible.
Tbilisi Flea Markets and Street Markets (Dezerter Bazaar)
Dezerter Bazaar, the city's largest food market, is the right address to get local cheeses (Sulguni cheese), fresh spices, churchkhela, and homemade Georgian sauces (Tkemali).
Rustaveli Avenue and Agmashenebeli Avenue (Tbilisi)
These are the most prestigious avenues of the city. Luxury stores, boutiques, bookstores, and souvenir shops line these streets.
Best Souvenirs to Buy from Georgia
Georgian Wine
Saperavi or Rkatsiteli wines produced using the Qvevri (earthenware jar) method.
Chacha
Georgians' traditional high-alcohol grape distilled spirit.
Spices and Sweets
Georgian salt, special spice mixes with cloves/coriander, and churchkhela.
Handmade Felt and Fur Products
Hand-knitted wool socks and beanies, especially obtained from mountain villages.
Travel with Peace of Mind
Before setting out on your shopping tour and travels, don't forget to quickly get your Georgia Travel Insurance policy online to fulfill legal requirements and protect yourself against possible medical expenses.