Georgia is an amazing country for souvenir shopping, with everything from unique handicrafts to locally-made wine. Whether you’re in Tbilisi, Batumi, or a smaller town, there’s always an opportunity to grab something truly special. One of the best ways to get authentic, local souvenirs is by heading to the many markets and artisanal shops scattered around the country. Let’s dive into some of the top things to look out for.
1. Traditional Georgian Textiles
Georgia has a rich tradition of textile craftsmanship. You’ll find an array of beautiful, handmade textiles like scarves, rugs, and traditional Georgian garments, called chokhas. Artisans use ancient techniques, especially in places like the Svaneti region, where local families pass down weaving skills from generation to generation.
Where to Buy Textiles
In Tbilisi, head to Dry Bridge Market. It’s a great spot for finding vintage textiles, including carpets and handmade scarves. For more upscale, traditional clothing, you can check out Samoseli Pirveli, a shop that specializes in Georgian national garments.
2. Georgian Wine
Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world. In fact, it’s said that they’ve been making wine here for over 8,000 years! You’ll come across some excellent options for bringing home a bottle or two, including the country’s unique qvevri wines.
If you’re looking for some variety, Saperavi and Kindzmarauli are two popular types to try. Many small, local wineries produce incredible wine, so try to visit a few and taste before purchasing.
Where to Buy Wine
The most convenient place to buy wine is in Tbilisi. Shops like 8000 Vintages and Wineshop have a wide selection of both affordable and premium bottles. If you’re venturing into the Kakheti region, stop by a local winery for an even more authentic experience and a better price.
3. Handmade Ceramics
Ceramics in Georgia are not just practical; they’re a piece of art. Each piece is hand-painted with intricate patterns, often reflecting traditional Georgian designs. Many artisans create plates, bowls, and even wine jugs.
Ceramic items often feature bright colors and stylized images of local animals or landscapes, which adds a unique flair to your kitchen back home.
Where to Buy Ceramics
For handmade ceramics, Shardeni Street in Tbilisi has plenty of artisan shops. You can also find pottery at local markets across the country. If you’re heading to Kakheti, Filiosi Ceramics Studio is a great place to buy directly from local artisans.
4. Felted Wool Products
In Georgia, felted wool craft is a popular artisanal product. Crafted by hand, these items range from clothing to decorative pieces. Felt hats, slippers, and hand-warmers are some of the unique gifts you’ll find.
Known as cloisonné in Europe, local artisans follow age-old techniques to create colorful and robust felt items. They’re perfect for gifts and a great way to add a piece of Georgia to your wardrobe or home.
Where to Buy Felted Wool
Tbilisi has several shops offering felted wool items. Amira, located near Rustaveli Avenue, is well-known for its variety. Smaller markets also tend to sell these traditional wool products.
5. Georgian Jewelry (Minankari)
Minankari, also known as enamel jewelry, is an ancient Georgian technique that’s been brought back to life by modern artisans. This intricate jewelry style blends colorful enamel with silver or gold. Rings, necklaces, and earrings are the most common souvenirs you’ll see.
The designs often depict religious icons or nature motifs, each one telling a Georgian story in a wearable form.
Where to Buy Minankari Jewelry
One of the best places to buy Minankari is at the Tbilisi flea market. You can find more sophisticated pieces in boutique shops on Erekle II Street in Tbilisi. The region around Mtskheta also hosts several artisan stores selling this type of jewelry.
6. Churchkhela: The Georgian “Candy”
No trip to Georgia would be complete without tasting, and taking home, some churchkhela. This traditional candy is made of nuts dipped in thickened grape juice. It’s a staple treat in Georgia and comes in all sorts of variations, using different types of nuts or fruit fillings. It’s said to be an energy booster, which is why it’s also called the Georgian “snickers.”
Where to Buy Churchkhela
You’ll find churchkhela being sold at practically every market in the country. Dezerter Bazaar in Tbilisi is an excellent place to buy churchkhela, but all local markets stock various options. Just watch for freshness and try to buy on the day it’s made!
7. Sulguni Cheese and Georgian Spices
Georgia is also famous for its cheese and unique spices. Sulguni is a delicious brined cheese, usually mozzarella-like in texture, but with a richer flavor. Keep in mind that this is a perishable product, so it’s best to get vacuum-sealed packaging if you’re planning to take some home.
Georgian spices, on the other hand, are lightweight and easy to pack. One of the most famous blends is Khmeli Suneli, a mix of savory spices that you’ll taste in many local dishes.
Where to Buy Sulguni and Spices
The best way to pick up cheese is from farmers’ markets like the one in Tbilisi’s Dezerter Bazaar or Kutaisi’s Green Bazaar. For spices, you can find them at local markets all over Georgia or head to a spice shop at the Tbilisi Central Market. Many stores sell properly packaged spices that make them easier to transport.
8. Georgian Art and Handicrafts
If you’re looking for something that reflects Georgia’s artistic soul, keep an eye out for local paintings, handmade dolls, and other unique handicrafts. Georgian artists love to create small illustrations of scenes from the country’s landscapes, which are great to frame once you’re home.
You’ll also come across hand-carved wooden items, often featuring religious or nature-themed motifs. From chess boards to small wooden boxes, there’s no shortage of these items in Georgia.
Where to Buy Handicrafts and Art
Head back to the Dry Bridge Market in Tbilisi to browse an array of paintings, sculptures, and woodwork. Another great option is the Flea Market on Agmashenebeli Avenue, where local artists often sell their work directly.
9. Tea and Honey
Georgian tea might not be as globally famous as its wine, but it’s an excellent and tasty souvenir. Georgia has long been growing black and green tea, especially in the western areas of the country, like the Guria and Samegrelo regions. Pair some tea with Georgian honey for an even better gift combo.
Where to Buy Tea and Honey
Tbilisi has several places where you can pick up local tea and honey. Althaus Tea House sells premium blends and packaged sets. For honey, look for local brands at market stalls or bring some home from a specialty store like Badagi.
10. Traditional Hats: Papakha
If you really want to make a statement, consider buying a Papakha. These traditional Caucasian sheepskin hats are a symbol of power and bravery in Georgia. While not practical for everyday use, they make a great talking point back home.
Where to Buy Papakha
Local markets are the best spots to find these traditional hats. You can try the Meidan Bazaar or Dry Bridge Market in Tbilisi. Often, they’re sold alongside traditional chokha outfits and wool items.
Conclusion
Georgia is packed with incredible souvenirs and local crafts. From textiles and wine to ceramics and sweets, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re strolling through Tbilisi’s Dry Bridge Market or exploring artisan shops in Kakheti, keep your eyes open for these beautiful, handmade items. Remember: the best gifts are the ones with a story, and you’ll find plenty here!
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