Rike Park in Tbilisi: Bridge of Peace, cable car, fountains

Rike Park is a modern park on the left bank of the Kura, right opposite old Tbilisi. It opened in 2010 and is now one of the busiest places in the city to stroll: lawns, fountains, cafés and some unusual architecture.

It’s a convenient place to begin exploring the centre. The pedestrian Bridge of Peace — a glass “wave” lit up at night — crosses the river to the Old Town, and from the park a cable car climbs up to Narikala fortress. In the park itself there’s a musical fountain, a “singing” piano fountain and the futuristic tube pavilions of a concert hall.

The Bridge of Peace and views of the Old Town

From the park’s embankment you get one of the most recognisable views in Tbilisi: the glass arc of the Bridge of Peace, and beyond it the rooftops of the Old Town and Mount Mtatsminda with its TV tower. From here it’s easy to cross to the right bank and head up into the historic quarters.

The cable car to Narikala

The lower cable-car station stands right in the park. In a couple of minutes the cabins carry you up to Narikala fortress and the Mother of Georgia monument, passing over the river and the Old Town — a short ride with panoramic views.

Inside the park

The grounds are spacious: broad lawns to relax on, paths to wander, cafés and playgrounds. Deeper in stand the futuristic tube pavilions of a concert hall, which have become a sight in their own right.

The park in the evening

The park is at its best in the evening, when the lights come on across the bridge and the fountains. Entry is free.

For more on the city, see our guide to Tbilisi; for getting around, the transport section; and for more ideas, the things to do section.