Tourism is booming in Georgia, not least because it’s become well-known as an affordable “European” destination ripe in natural and architectural sights to see. You won’t go a day in the capital without seeing couples and groups of friends laden with backpacks and rolled up sleeping bags. So where do they lay their heads at night? Where.ge asked them and compiled the top choices below.

VALIKO HOSTEL & BAR

“Valiko's, set in one of Old Tbilisi's best old buildings, is a hidden gem of the bar scene of the city. The carefully curated interior answers to the emerging underground scene, combining the old, classic, and decorative style of the building with paintings and sculptures. Every night, you will encounter interesting and welcoming people who are looking to make new friends; some are fellow travelers, some are locals. It’s run by a South-African and Georgian duo and drinks are priced for the budget traveler. I would describe the establishment as a bar with a hostel, not a hostel with a bar. If you find you've had a bit too much to drink, the hostel downstairs has a laid-back, inviting, and friendly atmosphere, too. It is unlike other properties I have stayed at in the city - It's the kind of place you feel relaxed in, where you could stay a while.” – Tamzin.

24 G. Tabidze Str., Tbilisi

TEL (+995) 593 96 14 54

FABRIKA HOSTEL

“Fabrika Hostel was once a soviet sewing factory. It was recently revived and transformed into a multi-functional urban space bringing together bars, cafes, designers and craftsmen.

Lost and forgotten in the historical part of Tbilisi, the former soviet sewing factory “Nino” is now the urban hotspot for locals and travelers alike. With its striking “old-meets-new” attitude, the place oozes genuinely cool soviet vibes blended with funky industrial elements.

Choose from a bed in a mixed dorm (3, 4, 6, 10, 12 or 6-female), twin or double private or treat yourself to an Apartment Style Suite for four, complete with terrace, kitchenette and private bathroom. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. Super comfortable and friendly.” – Kathryn.

8 E. Ninoshvili Str., Tbilisi

TEL (+995) 322 02 03 99

HOSTEL KONKA

“Konka is the name of old horse-driven trams that were used in the 19th century. Some of them are still on the streets of Tbilisi, being used as shops or cafes. The most famous one is standing near the old city walls at Baratashvili Street, and this is the place where you’ll find Hostel Konka. It’s difficult to find more central location, so close to all important sights and to the public transport (buses, minibuses, subway). Gabriadze Theatre, Anchiskhati Basilica, Rustaveli Avenue and Sololaki area are in 3-5 minutes walk. The interior is very simple: light wooden bunk beds, little kitchenette, clean bathroom with a washing machine. Plus, Hostel Konka has a spacious balcony with traditional carved ornaments. You observe people’s real life while chilling there with a tea or beer, and as you walk out of the door, you become an immediate part of it all.” – Timothy.

14 Nishnianidze Str.

TEL (+995) 558 36 37 90

OPERA ROOMS & HOSTEL TBILISI

“Probably my favorite hostel in terms of the whole customer experience. It all starts with having to take your shoes off upon entry (to ensure maximum cleanliness) to being given a hero’s sendoff come checkout time. Indeed, as I entered the world of the Opera Rooms & Hostel, I had interrupted the leaving ceremony of a guest. At first I thought it was just another tourist being embraced and sent his way by members of his travel crew. I soon found out that those embracing like a long lost friends were in fact the staff members. Therein lies the beauty of this hostel: not only is it situated in a beautiful, huge and spacious apartment (with a kitchen that has to be at least 25m2!), but you are welcomed immediately as a ‘member of the family’. The immediate flood of kindness that I was afforded by the three present staff members, two of which were long-term-residents-cum-de-facto-staff, was truly heartwarming and made me almost wish that I lived there full-time. This hostel is close to a home as any that I’ve seen in my travels across 39 countries. Very central, just seconds from bus and minibus stops and minutes from the metro and Tbilisi's nightlife districts. Two shared bathrooms, breakfast included. The only negative is that its windows open up to the shambolic and tone-deaf orchestra of Rustaveli Avenue.” – Mate.

24 Sh. Rustaveli Ave., Tbilisi

TEL (+995) 555 37 75 16

RUSTAVELI GUEST HOUSE

“Coming from higher income countries, one would be forgiven for being wary of staying at a hostel that costs only 20 GEL a night. However, in Tbilisi, one finds value for money, even at such a relatively low price. Situated just across from the luxurious Biltmore Hotel, the Rustaveli Guesthouse provides the kind of luxury not even a seven-star hotel can: the feeling of being at home.

Cozy, quaint, and homely, this hostel offers a relaxing vibe and energy. While the decoration is minimal at best, it is still good enough to make the place feel lived in; the beds offer a surprising degree of comfort, with their firm, though still-soft enough mattresses. A selection of snacks and cornflakes, in addition to milk, tea, and coffee, is included in the stay, in a tidy and cute little kitchen at the far end of the establishment. The owner even lives in a room connected to the hostel by a separate staircase, so one can rest assured that assistance is always at hand.” – Tom.

24 Sh. Rustaveli Ave., Floor 3, Tbilisi

TEL (+995) 555 252 287