Is Tbilisi safe? 🇬🇪

Tbilisi remains one of the safer capitals in the region for visitors, with a composite safety score of 79/100 and a U.S. State Department Level 1 advisory (Exercise Normal Precautions). Violent crime against tourists is uncommon, and homicide rates are low at 2.0 per 100k. However, the city experiences ongoing peaceful protests centred on Rustaveli Avenue near parliament, which have persisted for over 500 days as of August 2026. While these demonstrations are typically non-violent, they can cause routing disruptions and a heightened police presence, which some visitors — particularly solo Black travellers — report leads to frequent stops and stares. The UK FCDO advises against all travel to the Russian-occupied regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and against all but essential travel near their administrative boundaries, but these advisories do not affect Tbilisi itself.

On the ground, petty crime is the primary concern for visitors. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are moderate risks, especially in crowded areas such as the Tbilisi Metro, public markets, and the Old Town district, where thieves often use distraction tactics involving beggars or children. The Shardeni nightlife area — bounded by Kote Apkhazi street and the river, and including Chardin, Bambis Rigi, and Rkinis Rigi streets — is notorious for bar bill scams, where tourists are presented with inflated charges reaching up to US$1,000 for a few drinks and pressured to pay. Taxi scams, particularly from the airport, remain common, with drivers rigging meters or demanding payment in foreign currency after quoting in lari. To stay safe, visitors should agree on fares before entering taxis or use ride-hailing apps, keep valuables secured and out of sight, avoid displaying cash or electronics, and carry photocopies of their passport while leaving the original in their accommodation. Despite these risks, most travellers report feeling safe, citing the city's welcoming culture and low levels of unprovoked violence, with a consumer sentiment score of 82/100 reflecting mostly positive experiences. Nighttime walking is generally fine, but using buses or taxis after dark is advised for added caution, especially outside well-lit tourist zones.