As Above So Below – Journey Through Underground Tbilisi

Imagine stepping beneath the bustling streets of Tbilisi into a world few see—dark, mysterious, and frozen in time. For $110 per person, this 3-hour tour takes you into restricted Soviet-era locations that are normally off-limits to the public. Guided by Tinatin Goguadze, you’ll explore abandoned tunnels, a Cold War bunker, and an underground mine lab, gaining access through official permissions that make this adventure possible.

What we love about this experience is how it blends history with a sense of adventure—walking through tunnels once used for secret Cold War operations or peering at artifacts like Soviet gas masks and Geiger counters. The second highlight is the chance to visit a hidden mine laboratory, witnessing Soviet drilling mechanisms still in place. The only potential drawback? The strict restrictions—no pets, drones, alcohol, or drugs—and the requirement to book at least three days in advance for security clearance, which might be a bit of a planning challenge.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, urban explorers, or anyone with a curiosity for the Soviet past, especially if you’re keen on discovering places most visitors never get to see. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable in confined spaces and who appreciate authentic, offbeat experiences.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to restricted underground Soviet-era sites in Tbilisi
• Insightful guided tour with knowledgeable host Tinatin Goguadze
• Includes transportation and permissions necessary for underground exploration
• Authentic artifacts like gas masks, Geiger counters, and Cold War posters
• Not suitable for children under 16, claustrophobic individuals, or wheelchair users
• Book at least 3 days in advance due to security clearance procedures

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Tbilisi’s Hidden Underground

When most travelers visit Tbilisi, they stick to the well-trodden streets and famous sights like the Old Town or the Narikala Fortress. But for those craving a more offbeat adventure, this underground tour reveals a side of the city few get to experience. It’s a rare opportunity to walk through tunnels that once served as command centers for Cold War espionage, or to see abandoned control rooms filled with Soviet-era equipment.

The meeting point at Nadzaladevi subway station is convenient for most travelers, and the tour ends right back where it started. This makes logistics simple, especially since the tour includes transportation — a bonus for those unfamiliar with navigating Tbilisi’s transit system. The tour is conducted in English, ensuring that international visitors can fully grasp the historical significance of what they’re seeing.

Exploring the Soviet KGB Bunker

Arguably the highlight is the Cold War KGB bunker. We loved the way this site has been preserved, offering a time capsule of Soviet paranoia and secrecy. Fans of history will appreciate the original artifacts—Geiger counters, gas masks, and Cold War-era maps and posters—all still in place. Walking through these tunnels, you can almost hear the whispers of spies planning their next move.

The bunker’s interior provides a visceral connection to the past, and your guide will share stories about how this underground fortress was used to prepare for potential conflicts. Although it’s a confined space, the tour is well-organized, and the official permissions mean you’re granted access to areas normally off-limits.

Venturing into Abandoned Tunnels and Control Rooms

Beyond the bunker, the tour takes you through underground tunnels and abandoned control rooms—each with its own story. These spaces, once vital for military or industrial purposes, now evoke a haunting silence. We found the experience both eerie and fascinating, especially when peering into the control panels or walking through dark corridors. The authenticity of exploring restricted sites truly sets this tour apart.

The Underground Mine Lab

Another unexpected highlight is the underground mine laboratory. Here, you’ll see actual drilling mechanisms used during Soviet clay mining experiments. The surreal feeling of standing amidst these relics of Soviet industry makes this part of the tour genuinely unique. It’s not just about looking at old machinery; it’s about understanding the Soviet obsession with resource extraction and how these technological innovations were hidden from the public eye.

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Authentic Artifacts and Education

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to handle original Soviet artifacts, which is a rare privilege. Such details make the experience more tangible, especially for those interested in Cold War history or Soviet technology. Our guide emphasized the importance of preserving these sites, and her knowledge added depth to our understanding.

Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At $110, the tour isn’t cheap, but considering the exclusive access, transportation, and permission fees included, it offers good value for those keen on authentic exploration. The experience is quite immersive, and the fact that you’re walking through real, off-limits sites makes this a memorable addition to any itinerary.

Practical Considerations

Because the tour involves navigating narrow tunnels and confined spaces, it’s not suitable for children under 16, claustrophobic individuals, or those with mobility issues. No pets, drones, alcohol, or drugs are allowed, which helps keep the sites secure and preserved. Booking ahead is essential—remember to contact the guide at least three working days prior to your desired date to ensure security clearances.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This underground adventure suits travelers with a sense of curiosity and adventure, especially those interested in Cold War history, Soviet architecture, or urban exploration. It’s ideal for independent-minded visitors who don’t mind confined spaces and who seek authentic, less-visited sites. If you’re looking for a safe, guided journey into the hidden depths of Tbilisi’s past, this tour offers a rare glimpse that is both educational and exciting.

Those who value exclusive access and original artifacts will find this experience particularly rewarding. Just be ready to plan ahead and keep in mind the physical restrictions—this isn’t a tour for everyone, but for the right adventurer, it’s a standout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it isn’t recommended for children under 16 due to the confined spaces and nature of the sites.

Can I bring pets or drones?
No, pets and drones are not allowed, helping to maintain security and preservation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. Expect to walk through tunnels that may be damp or uneven.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation and exploration of multiple underground sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at the Nadzaladevi subway station, and the tour concludes there as well.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to the nature of the underground sites.

How far in advance do I need to book?
At least 3 working days ahead to allow for security clearance and site preparations.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English.

What is included in the price?
Guided access to underground Soviet-era sites, transportation, permission access, and the chance to explore original artifacts.

This journey into Tbilisi’s underground secrets offers a blend of history, adventure, and authentic exploration—perfect for those who want to see beneath the surface and connect with the city’s hidden story. If you’re ready to venture off the beaten path and into a Cold War relic, this tour delivers an experience you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: