Bridge of Peace, Tbilisi: History, Design & Best Time to Visit
Bridge of Peace at a glance
- What: a pedestrian bridge over the Kura (Mtkvari) river
- Connects: the Old Town with Rike Park
- Opened: officially on 6 May 2010
- Architect: Michele De Lucchi, Italy
- Design: a modern steel-and-glass structure
- Built: in Italy, then brought to Tbilisi by truck
- Reception: the modern design received mixed reactions
- Best time: dusk and evening, when it is lit up
Facts about the bridge come from Wikipedia, Eurasia Travel, Orexca and Atlas Obscura.
What is the Bridge of Peace?
Walking along the Old Town side of the river, you cannot miss it: a long, wave-like canopy of glass and steel arching across the Kura. The Bridge of Peace is a pedestrian bridge that connects the historic Old Town with Rike Park on the opposite bank, and it has become one of the most photographed sights in Tbilisi.
The bridge was designed by the Italian architect Michele De Lucchi and officially opened on 6 May 2010. Unusually, its structure was built in Italy and then transported to Tbilisi by truck before being assembled over the river.
A modern bridge in an old city
Putting a steel-and-glass structure in the middle of the historic centre was a bold choice, and the modern design received mixed reactions. Some residents felt it did not belong next to centuries-old churches and balconied houses; others saw it as a symbol of a new, outward-looking Georgia. More than a decade later, the debate is part of its story, and for most visitors it is simply a striking contrast to the old city around it.
From the bridge you get good views both ways along the river: towards the Old Town, the Metekhi church on its cliff and Narikala Fortress above, and across to the modern buildings and Rike Park on the other bank.
How to get there
The bridge is in the very centre of Tbilisi, so most visitors simply walk. From the Old Town side, head for the riverbank below the old streets and you will see the glass canopy ahead of you. From the other bank, enter Rike Park and follow the paths down to the river. If you are coming from further away, a taxi to the Old Town or to Rike Park leaves you a few minutes’ walk from the bridge.
When to visit
The bridge is open to pedestrians and free to cross, so you can visit at any time. We recommend coming in the late afternoon and staying until dusk: the light over the Old Town is soft, and after dark the bridge’s lighting turns it into one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
| Time | What you get | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Quiet, few people | Good for photos without crowds |
| Late afternoon | Warm light on the Old Town | Walk on to Rike Park and the cable car |
| Evening | The bridge lit up | Bring a layer: it is breezy over the river |
A walking route around the bridge
The Bridge of Peace is the natural link between several of Tbilisi’s highlights, so it fits easily into a half-day walk:
- Old Town: start among the balconied houses and small churches on the Old Town bank.
- The bridge: cross to Rike Park and look back at the view.
- Cable car: from Rike Park, ride up to the ridge beside Narikala Fortress.
- Sulfur baths: walk down to the Abanotubani bath district; our sulfur baths guide explains how they work.
- Sameba: on another day, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral on the Avlabari side of the river.
Beyond Tbilisi
Once you have seen the capital, the classic day trip is north along the Georgian Military Road to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) and the mountains. A private car with driver lets you stop at viewpoints on the way and come back the same evening; our Tbilisi to Kazbegi day trip guide explains the route. In the cold season, check road and weather conditions the day before. See live prices for your date on this page; the price is shown per vehicle before you book.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Bridge of Peace in Tbilisi?
A modern steel-and-glass pedestrian bridge over the Kura (Mtkvari) river that links the Old Town with Rike Park.
When was the Bridge of Peace built?
It officially opened on 6 May 2010. The structure was built in Italy and brought to Tbilisi by truck.
Who designed the Bridge of Peace?
The Italian architect Michele De Lucchi.
Is it free to cross?
Yes, it is a public pedestrian bridge, open to everyone.
When is the best time to see it?
Late afternoon and evening, when the light is soft and the bridge is lit up after dark.
What is near the Bridge of Peace?
The Old Town, Rike Park, the cable car up to the ridge beside Narikala Fortress and the sulfur baths are all within walking distance.
Checked on 30 October 2026. Sources: Wikipedia, Eurasia Travel, Orexca and Atlas Obscura.
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