A vibrant city bursting with charm, culture, and some of the cheapest wine in Europe is quickly becoming one of the continent’s best-kept travel secrets. Tbilisi, Georgia is an eclectic and enchanting capital, where a glass of wine can cost as little as £2.

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Tbilisi offers a unique mix of ancient history, bohemian charm, and cutting-edge creativity, all just a five-hour flight from the UK. Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking tradition that dates back over 8,000 years.

In Tbilisi, you’ll find this heritage woven into daily life, from rustic wine bars hidden in crumbling courtyards to sleek, modern cellars serving amber-hued qvevri wines aged in underground clay pots.

But perhaps the most appealing part for British travellers is the price. A glass of high-quality local wine in many bars and restaurants costs the equivalent of £2 or less, and bottles in supermarkets can be snapped up for even cheaper.

Tbilisi’s affordability stretches well beyond its wine list.

Delicious local dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) or khinkali (soup dumplings) can be enjoyed for just a few pounds, and accommodation, ranging from boutique guesthouses to stylish Airbnbs, is remarkably budget-friendly.

But it’s the vibe of the city that truly hooks visitors. Tbilisi’s Old Town is a winding maze of colourful balconies, ancient churches, and leafy courtyards.

The skyline is punctuated by the hilltop Narikala Fortress and the ultra-modern Bridge of Peace, a glowing symbol of the city’s dynamic identity.

Wander through the Abanotubani district to soak in traditional sulphur baths, which is believed to be the reason Tbilisi was founded here in the first place.

Art lovers and creatives will find inspiration in every corner, with street art, underground galleries, and artisan markets thriving across neighbourhoods like Fabrika, a converted Soviet sewing factory turned cultural hotspot filled with cafes, shops, and hostel rooms.

And when the sun sets, Tbilisi’s buzzing nightlife scene comes alive, blending techno clubs with live folk music venues.

With direct flights from London, Manchester, and other major UK cities now more frequent and affordable, Tbilisi is emerging as a dream destination for those wanting to explore somewhere a little different, without breaking the bank.