The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
Sulfur baths in Tbilisi are a quintessential experience connected to the history and origin of Tbilisi itself, plus they’re the ultimate way to relax and recharge after exploring the city. And let’s be real—how often do you get to bathe in naturally heated geothermal water in the middle of a city?
Below is an ultimate guide to the Tbilisi Sulfur Bath experience based on my own recent experience whilst visiting Tbilisi and Georgia for a week.
These sulfur baths are located in the historic Abanotubani district, and you’ll spot them right away thanks to their unique domed roofs. Below is a guide on everything you need to know, including recommendations on where to book your experience.
Why You Should Visit the Tbilisi Sulfur Bath
After a day exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Tbilisi or climbing up to Narikala Fortress, there’s nothing better than sinking into a warm, mineral-rich bath to unwind.
The Tbilisi sulfur baths are not just a great place to relax, they’re an experience that combines history, culture, and wellness. On our walking tour, we learnt that these sulfur baths, located in the historic Abanotubani district, are fed by natural hot springs bubbling with mineral-rich waters, making them therapeutic in nature.
So What exactly is a Sulfur Bath?
A sulfur bath is a natural spa that uses water from geothermal springs rich in sulfur and other minerals. These waters are naturally heated by the earth’s geothermal activity. It is then piped into pools, creating a space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
On average the water’s temperature typically hovers around 38–40°C (100–104°F), which is ideal for soothing muscles and relieving tension. I must warn that the sulfur gives the water a faint yellow hue and a characteristic “egg-like” though I personally found this very faint, and one that didn’t interfere with the experience at all. Depending on the type of bathhouse you book, you will find a mix of private rooms and shared pools, along with steam rooms and cold plunge / cold showers baths for those seeking a more invigorating experience.
Where are Tbilisi’s Sulfur Baths located?
You will find these sulfur baths located across Tbilisi, however these are concentrated in the historic Abanotubani district, which is located in the Old Town area. This neighborhood is recognizable by the distinctive domed bathhouse roofs that are located near the eastern bank of the Mtkvari River,just below the Narikala Fortress – a must see attraction in Tbilisi with great views of the city below.
Abanotubani is one of the city’s most iconic and culturally rich areas, and you can see why, with its historic domed bathhouses, vibrant streets lined with traditional Georgian architecture.
The Tbilisi Sulfur Baths – Origin story
The Tbilisi Sulfur Baths have an interesting origin story. Legend has it that in the 5th century, King Vakhtang I Gorgasali was hunting in the area when his falcon chased a pheasant into a hot spring, dropping from the air instantly (gruesome I know!). When the king retrieved them, he noticed the spring’s warmth and healing properties. Inspired, he decided to establish a city around the springs, naming it Tbilisi, meaning “warm place” in Georgian.
In fact there is a Monument of the Fountain Falcon and Pheasant symbolising the city’s founding by King Vakhtang which can be found in the historic Abanotubani district, near the sulfur baths.
Over the centuries, the bathhouses became a central part of life in Tbilisi. These places became social hubs where people gathered, socialised, conducted business and traditions were passed down.
Persian and Turkish influences also shaped the bathhouses’ architecture and rituals and share some degree of overlap in the bathhouse traditions.
What to Expect Inside
After spending the previous few day explorign Georgia and the city of Tbilisi, I was ready to see what the deal with these sulfur baths was, and booked session at the Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths.
Visiting in November, the air was chilly with a cool breeze, however the minute we steppe inside we were felt warm, with the air being slightly humid and carrying a faint sulfuric scent that becomes less noticeable the longer you spend inside.
I had prebooked Room 8 – a basic private sulfur bath for 2, with basic amenities including a shower, toilet, wifi along with the Sulfur bath. We were handed towels at reception then taken to our sulfur bath room.
Despite booking one of the smaller more basic rooms, we were surprised to find even this is a very reasonably sized private bath had plenty of space and a changing room plus separate toilet. Further, the room with the sulfur bath had plenty of bench space to sit down and a shower out front for cooling down in between dips in the hot sulfur water.
Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths are one of the largest most popular sulfur baths and you can see why once you’re inside. We found this place was clean and very well maintained with all amenities for a sulfur bath experience. We were told about additional services such as kisi scrub and massages which we could add on top. Our receptionist guide also pointed out a phone inside our room, which we could use to order food and drinks straight to our private room, which was a nice perk I was not expecting!
What is a Kisi?
If you have never had a kisi scrub before, these typically involve using a coarse, textured mitt called a kisi (or kisa) to vigorously scrub the skin. This removes dead skin cells and impurities. The process is intense but incredibly effective, leaving the skin feeling smooth, soft, and refreshed.
We opted to just spend more time relaxing in the sulfur bath rather than add on the kisi, having not been big fans of a similar scrub we had in Morocco earlier in the earlier in the Moroccan hammams.
How to book a Sulphur Bath in Tbilisi
Today, you can easily book or call up any of the Sulfur baths in Tbilisi in advance to book a session. Or alternatively, get your hotel or accommodation to arrange the session for you. They can probably also provide their own recommendations of which Sulfur Baths they recommend.
Should you book Private or Public baths?
If you’ve booked a private room, you’ll find a compact but cozy space with a small sulfur pool, a shower, and sometimes a cold plunge bath. Private rooms offer privacy and quiet, making them perfect for couples or those who want a more personal experience.
Shared baths, on the other hand, are lively and social. These larger pools are where locals and travelers soak side by side, creating a communal vibe that’s both welcoming and authentic. Most bathhouses also offer traditional treatments, like exfoliating scrubs and massages. The scrub, performed by an experienced attendant, is vigorous—some might even say intense—but leaves your skin feeling incredibly smooth and refreshed. It’s an unforgettable part of the experience.
What to do at the Sulfur baths – my experience at Chreli Abano Sulfur Baths
Once here, you will typically have changing rooms and lockers at public sulfur baths to change and store your belongings. The private rooms at Chreli Abano had the changing room and toilet section once you enter your designated room number. Though this section you then enter the actual sulfur bath house room.
We were advised its best to have a slightly cool shower before getting into the bath itself. Our guide who took us to our bathhouse, also recommended keeping water close by and staying hydrated throughout. They also recommended doing 10 minute sessions in the hot water then stepping out for a cold shower to cool down, throughout our 50 minute session.
Despite having a cold shower before entering the bath, I was surpised just how hot the bath actual felt upon getting in. It definitely did not feel comfortable at first, but slowly your body adjusts to the heat and within 5 minutes or so you will feel much more adjusted and at ease in the warmer temperature.
Unlike a lot spas or bathhouses that have some music playing in the background, this one was completely silent. So we decided to get our phones and stream some spa music it the background and create our own ambience. The dome shaped structure of the bathhouses create some unique acoustics, so I totally recommend trying this to create your own little ambient atmosphere if you’re booking a private room at Chreli!
What to Pack for the Sulfur Baths
While most bathhouses provide basic amenities, there are some basic amenties you need to pack for the visit –
- Swimsuit: Required for shared baths but optional in private rooms.
- Flip-flops: A must for navigating slippery floors.
- Towel and robe: Although most bathhouses provide these or allow you to rent these
- Toiletries: Shampoo, soap, and conditioner are handy for freshening up afterward.
- Exfoliating mitt or loofah: If you’re planning to get a scrub, bringing your own ensures comfort and hygiene.
- Water bottle: The heat can be dehydrating, so it’s essential to stay hydrated.
- Hair tie or cap: Useful for keeping your hair dry and out of the sulfur
- Spare bag for wet clothes when getting changed.
Benefits of a Sulfur Bath
Sulfur baths are famous for their therapeutic properties. The sulfur in the water helps treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, while the heat improves circulation, eases joint pain, and soothes sore muscles. The baths are also believed to aid in detoxifying, helping the body release toxins through sweating given the heat of the water.
The warm water and tranquil atmosphere also help create a calm and relaxing atmosphere, it is also said that use of these bath can help in reducing stress and promoting better sleep.
How Long to Spend at a Sulfur Bath
The ideal duration for a sulfur bath session is about 1–2 hours. This gives you enough time to soak, enjoy a scrub or massage, and relax afterward.
If you are going just for a dip in the bath itself then 50 minutes to 1 hour is enough time. Most sessions are about 50 minutes long. We felt this was more than enough time as it also does get quite hot inside, and by the end we couldn’t wait to get out for some cool fresh air.
Spending too much time in the hot water can be dehydrating, so it’s best to pace yourself and ensure you take regular breaks from the hot water to cool down with a shower where you have the option. If it’s your first time, start with a shorter session and gradually increase the duration in future visits.
What Are Some Good Sulfur Baths to Try in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi offers a range of bathhouses, each with its own charm and to cater to different budgets.:
- Orbeliani Baths: Known for their stunning blue-tiled facade, these baths combine history and luxury.
- Chreli Abano: A popular choice for its clean facilities and attentive service. After some research we decided to go with this one, given its positive reviews and goo price point.
- Gulos Thermal Spa: A family-run gem offering excellent scrubs and massages.
- Royal Bathhouse: Perfect for those seeking an upscale experience, with beautifully decorated private rooms.
Cost of a Sulfur Bathhouse Visit in Tbilisi
- Shared baths: 20–40 GEL ($7–15 USD) per session.
- Private rooms: 70–200 GEL ($25–70 USD) per hour, depending on size and luxury.
- Additional treatments: 20–50 GEL ($7–18 USD) for scrubs and massages.
We booked a private room at Chreli Abano which cost us 150 GEL (55 USD) in total for a 1 hour session for 2 people.
Shared or Private Bath?
Shared baths are budget-friendly and offer a chance to experience the communal side of Georgian culture. They’re lively and social, making them great if you’re solo traveling or on a budget.
Private baths, generally have a higher price point, but provide more privacy and comfort. They’re ideal for couples or anyone looking for a quieter, more personalized experience. With many places offering curated rooms with additional add on spa services. Many private rooms also come with added amenities like cold plunge pools and refreshments.
Booking a Session in Advance
To avoid disappointment, it’s wise to book your session in advance, especially for private rooms during peak hours. Many bathhouses allow online or phone reservations. If you’re staying in a hotel, the staff can often help you make arrangements. Shared baths usually don’t require reserving in advance, but can get crowded during busy times of the day. Typically this is between 12 – 3pm, 5 – 9pm. .
I recommend booking in advance, especially the popular bathhouses during the busier summer months. See our detailed guide on recommended bathhouses and which ones to book below.
Additional Spa Treatments at the Sulfur Spa
Beyond the soak, many bathhouses offer treatments like exfoliating scrubs and massages. The scrubs are a highlight, performed by skilled attendants who use traditional mitts to remove dead skin. Massages are another popular add on.
You can book these in advance often as a package deal with some sulfur baths offering a package discount for multiple treatments.
Tips for a Sulfur Bath Experience
- Stay hydrated before and after your session.
- Don’t overstay in the hot water; take breaks to cool down, dipping in the cooler pools or by having a cold shower.
- Bring cash, as some bathhouses may not accept cards.
- Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid crowds.
- Take off any jewelry before getting in. The sulfur content of water can be corrosive to certain metals so best to take care.
Who Should Avoid a Sulfur Bath?
Pregnant women, people with heart conditions, and those prone to dizziness should consult a doctor before visiting. If you have open wounds or severe skin conditions, it’s best to avoid the bath too.
Sulfur Baths outside of Tbilisi
For similar experiences, consider visiting Borjomi or Sairme. Both are renowned for their mineral springs and wellness-focused resorts, offering a more nature-centric alternative to Tbilisi’s urban bathhouses.
Benefits of a Sulfur Bath
Sulfur baths are renowned for their therapeutic properties, both physical and mental. The water is naturally infused with sulfur and other minerals and offers health benefits that –
- Skin Health: Cleanses and soothes skin conditions.
- Pain Relief: Relaxes muscles and joints.
- Improved Circulation: Enhances recovery and reduces tension.
- Detoxification: Flushes toxins and supports liver function.
- Respiratory Relief: Clears congestion and eases breathing.
- Stress Reduction: Relieves stress and improves sleep.
- Immunity Boost: Strengthens the body’s defenses.
Are the Tbilisi Sulfur Baths worth the visit?
100% YES. This was one of the most unique experiences in Tbilisi and very much tied to the history and foundation of the city itself. Although this was one of the attractions / experiences where I spent a little, the 150 GEL (55 USD) were totally worth the experience. Tbilisi is generally a very afforable expensive city, hence experiences such as the sulfur baths are relatively inexpensive and a lot cheaper than one would pay for similiar spas in the rest of Europe.
Other Attractions Near Tbilisi’s Sulfur Baths
Given the central location of the Abanotubani bathhouses, close to the Old Town, there are plenty of places to check out after your Sulfur bath experience. Some of the places I visited after / in the following days which I recommend were:
- Narikala Fortress: You can easily climb up or take the cable car for panoramic views of Tbilisi.These are extremely close to the Abanotubani sulfur baths.
- Leaning Clock Tower: A whimsical, crooked clock tower by the Rezo Gabriadze Theatre. We were introduced to this on our cool and quirky walking tour of Tbilisi with FreeTour
- Legvtakhevi Waterfall: A small hidden waterfall just a short walk from the sulfur baths.
- Meidan Bazaar: This place is a famous underground market for Georgian wine and crafts. A great place to stop for souveniers.
- Rike Park: A modern park with the striking Bridge of Peace and a great spot for photos.
- Artisan Shops: Check out Erekle II Street, known for handmade crafts and souvenirs, and Shardeni Street which is filled with galleries and unique artisan shops.
- Mother of Georgia Monument: overlookingthe city which is accessible by Tbilisi’s cable cars.
- Shavi Lomi Murals: You will find these quirky cat and phone booth murals tucked all over corners of Old Tbilisi. My personal favourite!
- Khinkali House on Rustaveli : best place for a variety of Khinkali to try. Food is also very well priced, check our out other guide on best Georgian foods to try and what you can expect to spend on these.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Are Sulfur Baths Created?
Tbilisi’s sulfur baths exist due to the city’s unique geology. The natural geothermal springs beneath the city’s surface push water upward, where it collects in underground reservoirs. These waters are rich in sulfur and other minerals, which are absorbed as they pass through layers of volcanic rock. Over time, these springs have become the source of the bathhouses’ pools, providing a constant supply of hot, mineral-rich water. The springs have been flowing for thousands of years and their heat and mineral content remains remarkably consistent. King Vakhtang I Gorgasali founded the city here in the 5th century after discovering the natural hot springs during a hunting trip and being inspired by their warmth and healing properties.
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