Tbilisi: Where Tourists Dont Go The Forgotten Rails Tour

Travelers seeking an authentic glimpse of Tbilisi’s lesser-known side will find this tour a goldmine of hidden gems. Unlike typical city sightseeing, this experience takes you beneath the surface—into tunnels, abandoned stations, and forgotten corners of Georgia’s capital. Led by passionate guides, you’ll uncover stories that textbooks rarely tell, all while visiting sites that remain largely off-limits to the general public.

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines history, industry, and real local life in one package. We love that it offers exclusive access to sealed-off areas like an old railway repair station and an electric depot turned refugee shelter. However, it’s not a casual stroll; you’ll need a decent pair of walking shoes and a curiosity for the unknown. Perfect for history buffs, train enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see the city beyond the usual.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience involves navigating some uneven surfaces and potentially confined spaces, which may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues. But if you’re ready for a raw, immersive adventure, this tour hits all the right notes. Overall, it’s a fantastic pick for travelers who want more than the surface of Tbilisi and are comfortable with a bit of exploration into the city’s industrial past.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit sites sealed off from the public, such as a railway repair station and electric depot
• Authentic Stories: Learn about the lives of Georgia’s first railway workers and the impact of the Soviet era
• Active Industry: Explore a still-operating 20th-century mine, adding a real-world industrial touch
• Local Guides: Guides like Lasha and Chinka offer personal insights and detailed historical context
• Authentic Encounters: See how war refugees have transformed an abandoned electric depot into a shelter
• Short but Impactful: A 2-hour tour packed with sights and stories that go beyond typical city tours

Most visitors stick to the well-worn paths of Rustaveli Avenue, the Old Town, or the Narikala Fortress. While these are undoubtedly worth exploring, they only scratch the surface. The Forgotten Rails Tour offers a completely different perspective—one that reveals the city’s industrial roots and underground stories. It’s an adventure that’s as much about understanding Tbilisi’s development as it is about seeing its hidden corners.

The tour starts outside Rustaveli Metro Station, where your guide will be waiting to whisk you below the city’s streets. From that moment, it’s a series of surprises—visiting historic homes of Georgia’s first railway workers, walking through a long-forgotten repair station, and peeking into spaces that have been sealed for decades. The guide will explain how these sites once functioned and why they were abandoned, giving you insights that are rarely found in typical sightseeing.

Why This Tour Resonates

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Lasha and Chinka standing out for their personal touch and detailed storytelling. As Ralf mentions, “You are taken to places you would never go yourself, where you can see reality, where the lives of the locals take place away from luxury and convenience.” This honesty and intimacy are what make the experience memorable.

The historical homes of railway workers are particularly evocative—they give you a glimpse into early Georgian railway life, with some houses still standing in surprisingly good condition. The visit to an active 20th-century mine adds a layer of industrial authenticity, showing how vital these sites once were to the local economy and community.

The abandoned electric depot now serves as a refuge for war-affected refugees—a stark reminder of how spaces can be repurposed and reclaimed by resilient locals. It’s a sobering but inspiring part of the tour that keeps things grounded in real-world stories.

The Highlights in Detail

The Sealed Railway Repair Station

This is arguably the tour’s most exclusive site. Sealed off from the outside world, it requires local knowledge just to access. Walking through this space, you get a tangible sense of how important the railway was during the Soviet era. The fact that it remains off-limits to regular travelers makes it a rare find. Guides like Lasha will share stories about what went on inside—perhaps secret repairs or strategic storage—that history books don’t cover.

The Historic Homes of Railway Workers

These buildings are more than just old houses; they are tangible links to Georgia’s industrial past. Some still retain original architecture, giving you a glimpse into the lives of those who built Georgia’s railways. It’s a slice of living history that adds depth and texture to the tour.

The 20th-Century Mine

This active site is a highlight for industrial history enthusiasts. Walking through the tunnels, you’ll learn about the mining process, the challenges faced, and how these mines sustained local communities. The fact that it’s still in operation means you’re seeing real industry still alive, not just relics.

The Abandoned Electric Depot

Now a shelter for war refugees, this site offers a contrasting story of resilience. The guide will share the stories of those who have rebuilt their lives here, transforming a symbol of industrial decline into a place of hope.

The Metro Ride

The tour includes a ride on the metro, offering a practical glimpse into the city’s modern transport system. It’s a brief but effective way to connect the past with the present.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates history, industry, and authentic local stories, this tour is a perfect fit. Train buffs, industrial archaeology fans, or those simply curious about Tbilisi’s underground layers will find plenty to love. The tour’s intimate size and guide expertise also make it suitable for travelers seeking a more personalized, insightful experience.

It’s also well-suited for those wanting to escape the typical tourist trail—a Bald and Bankrupt style adventure for the curious. However, keep in mind that certain areas involve uneven surfaces and confined spaces, so it might not be suitable for travelers with mobility limitations.

Practicalities and Value

At approximately 2 hours, the tour offers a substantial window into the city’s underground without feeling overly long or tiring. The price includes exclusive access to restricted sites, a metro ride, and a guide who’s passionate and knowledgeable. For $X (price not specified), you are paying for quality insights and the chance to explore areas most travelers never see.

Guides like Chinka and Lasha bring personal stories and professional expertise, transforming what could be a simple sightseeing tour into a personal history lesson. The tour operates in both English and Russian, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

For those eager to see a side of Tbilisi that most visitors overlook, the Forgotten Rails Tour offers an authentic, immersive experience. It’s ideal for history lovers, industrial enthusiasts, or anyone craving a bit of adventure off the beaten track. The mix of well-preserved sites, active industry, and heartfelt stories creates a compelling narrative of Georgia’s past and present.

The guides’ passion and knowledge shine through, making each site come alive. The exclusive access to sealed-off areas elevates this tour from ordinary to extraordinary, providing a rare glimpse into spaces you’d never find on your own. It’s a chance to step into the hidden heart of Tbilisi—a memorable journey into the city’s underground world.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking, visually fascinating tour that combines history, industry, and local resilience, this experience is a solid choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a sense of curiosity—you’re about to uncover a whole new side of Tbilisi.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since the tour involves walking through uneven surfaces and possibly confined spaces, it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with walking and exploring.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable glimpse into Tbilisi’s underground life.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Russian, so be sure to specify your language preference when booking.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the sites involved.

Are there any physical fitness requirements?
Given the walking and exploration involved, a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as some areas involve uneven surfaces or outdoor sections.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in your plans.

Is there a minimum group size?
The information provided doesn’t specify, but guided tours often operate with a small group size for a more intimate experience.

Will I see active sites?
Yes, you’ll visit an active 20th-century mine, which remains part of Georgia’s industrial landscape.

What makes this tour different from other Tbilisi tours?
Unlike typical city tours, this one offers restricted site access and stories of local resilience and industry, providing a more raw, authentic experience.

Whether you’re a history lover or an adventure seeker, this underground journey into Tbilisi’s forgotten rails offers a rare and fascinating perspective on the city’s past and present.