Rike-Narikala Cable Car (Lower Station) — Local services in Tbilisi

The Narikala Cable Car is advertised as one of the top attractions in Tbilisi, but honestly, the experience can be frustrating. The biggest issue is the long queues – you may need to wait more than an hour, often under the blazing Georgian sun, with little shade or seating. It feels exhausting, especially in summer. During the wait, boat tour sellers keep approaching visitors, which adds to the discomfort.

The ride itself is very short (just a few minutes), and while the view of the old town and the river is nice, it doesn’t quite justify the long wait. In comparison, the Mtatsminda Park funicular offers a longer, more comfortable ride and a much better overall experience.

If you do want to take this cable car, try going early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler and the lines are shorter. Alternatively, you can also walk up to Narikala Fortress (around 20–30 minutes uphill) or take a taxi/bolt directly to the top — faster and less tiring than waiting for hours in the queue.

In short: worth it only if there’s no line. Otherwise, better to skip and explore Narikala by...

​"This feeling," Nike said dramatically, as the Rike-Narikala Cable Car lurched to life, "is exactly what being in love is like." ​Adidas gripped the handrail, a nervous smile on her face. "A sudden, stomach-flipping lurch that makes you question all your life choices?" ​He laughed, tightening his grip on her hand. "No! That exhilarating ascent, the dizzying view as the rest of the world—and our worries—shrinks away below us." ​"So you're saying our love is a slightly wobbly glass box full of tourists with selfie sticks?" she teased. ​As they reached the top and the city of Tbilisi unfolded in a breathtaking panorama, his poetic side returned. "Look at it. It’s messy and chaotic and beautiful, and it all makes sense from up here." ​Adidas leaned her head on his shoulder. "Okay, fine," she sighed happily. "Just don't tell me we have to prove our love by riding...

Not very transparent pricing, but a cheap and good way to see the city from above.

As of March 2023, the cost is 2.5 GEL per person for one way. However, you also have to buy a travel card for 2 GEL. This card can be shared with more than one person (just pass it back and tap again, and the machine will deduct the fare again).

You can get a refund for the card (2 GEL) after your journey by going back to the ticket office, and 1) giving them back the card, 2) giving them the receipt, 3) showing personal ID (they say passport but they accepted my...