Tbilisi: Where Tourists Dont Go The Forgotten Rails Tour

If you’re looking to see a different side of Tbilisi that few visitors get to experience, the Forgotten Rails Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s underground and industrial past. This 2-hour journey takes you beyond the usual city sights into areas that are usually closed off — think abandoned electric depots, sealed railway repair stations, historic homes of railway workers, and an active 20th-century mine. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour costs around €50-€60 per person and is perfect for those curious about industrial history, urban decay, or local stories that shape modern Georgia.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history with authentic local scenes you wouldn’t find in typical guidebooks. The guides are experts who bring these hidden sites alive with stories of the Soviet era and the resilience of local communities. Plus, the visit to a still-active mine and the electric depot, now a refuge for war refugees, provides a raw, real glimpse into life in Tbilisi beyond tourism’s polished surface. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, history buffs, and anyone interested in urban exploration. If you’re not afraid of stepping into the lesser-known parts of a city and want a memorable story to tell, you’ll find plenty to love here. Keep in mind, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and the 2-hour duration is just enough to satisfy your curiosity without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Hidden Underground Sites: Explore sealed-off railway repair stations and abandoned electric depots inaccessible to most.
• Authentic Local Stories: Guides share personal insights and stories from the Soviet era and beyond.
• Historic Homes & Industry: Visit homes of Georgia’s first railway workers and an active 20th-century mine.
• Resilience & Humanity: See a former electric depot now serving as a shelter for war refugees.
• Exclusive Access: Gain entry to restricted areas, offering a rare glimpse into Tbilisi’s industrial past.
• Authentic Experience: Perfect for those wanting to see the city’s less-polished, real side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Forgotten Rails Tour

Discovering Tbilisi’s Hidden Side

Most visitors to Tbilisi flock to its beautiful Old Town, sulfur baths, or the iconic Narikala Fortress. But beneath and behind the scenes lies a less-glamorous, yet equally fascinating world—the city’s industrial and railway history. This tour is a chance to step into that world, guided through secret tunnels, abandoned stations, and old workers’ homes, all with a local guide who knows these places intimately.

A Tour That Tells a Story

The journey begins at Rustaveli Metro Station, where your guide, usually a local with personal stories to tell, waits to lead you into a different universe. You’ll walk through historic homes of Georgia’s first railway workers, feeling the echoes of early industrialization and the lives of those who built and maintained the city’s railway infrastructure. These homes are a window into early 20th-century life, giving you a sense of how the city’s working class lived.

Next, you’ll visit a long-forgotten railway repair station, which has been sealed off from the public eye for decades. Only with special access—arranged by your guide—can you step inside these forgotten, crumbling facilities that once kept the city’s trains rolling. The sense of stepping into a place frozen in time is striking. Multiple reviews highlight the exclusivity of this experience, with travelers remarking how these sites are impossible to access without local guidance.

Exploring the Industrial Heart

Another key highlight is the active 20th-century mine—a rare chance to see ongoing industrial activity, contrasting sharply with the abandoned sites. The guide explains how these mines operated during Soviet times and how they fit into the broader industrial landscape of Georgia today.

The electric depot is another poignant stop. What was once a hub of electrical maintenance now serves as a refuge for war-affected families, illustrating how these spaces are still part of the city’s living story. Visitors often comment on the resilience of the local community and how the space has been repurposed with compassion and strength.

Insights from Local Guides

Guides like Lasha, as praised in reviews, bring a personal touch to the tour, sharing stories about the neighborhoods, the people who lived there, and the history that shaped them. One reviewer noted that Lasha’s local background “gives this tour a personal touch,” making the experience more engaging and authentic.

Transport and Practicalities

The tour includes a ride on the metro, adding an element of local travel experience. It’s a good way to get around the underground sites efficiently. The entire tour lasts about 2 hours, so it’s perfect for a quick, immersive adventure without wasting your entire day. Be prepared with comfortable walking shoes, as some areas involve uneven floors and narrow passageways.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Based on reviews, the most enthusiastic fans are those interested in industrial history, railway enthusiasts, and urban explorers. One traveler described it as “a Bald and Bankrupt style adventure,” emphasizing its off-the-beaten-path appeal. It’s also suited for history buffs who appreciate local stories and travelers seeking authentic, raw glimpses into everyday life in Tbilisi.

Price and Value

At around €50-€60 per person, the tour delivers a lot of value for those eager for an intimate, exclusive experience. You gain access to restricted areas and learn from guides who are passionate about Georgia’s railway and urban history. Considering the small group size and exclusive sites, it’s a relatively affordable way to see a side of Tbilisi most travelers miss.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This is an ideal experience for adventurous travelers craving authentic stories and a taste of urban exploration. If you’re interested in industrial architecture, Soviet-era stories, or simply want a break from the usual tourist spots, this tour offers a memorable, insightful peek into Tbilisi’s underground past. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy local guides with personal connections to the city and like discovering hidden corners of urban landscapes.

While it may not suit everyone—especially those with mobility issues or looking for a leisurely stroll—those willing to walk through old tunnels and explore restricted sites will find this tour rewarding. It’s a rare chance to combine historical insight with adventure and resilience stories from a city that continues to rebuild and redefine itself.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, so it’s best suited for older children who can handle walking in less accessible areas. Always check with the provider if unsure.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Is there transportation involved?
Yes, the tour includes a ride on the metro, offering a glimpse into local transit and adding an authentic touch to the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Are the sites safe to visit?
Guides ensure that you visit only safe, accessible areas. However, some sites are abandoned and may have uneven surfaces, so caution and comfortable shoes are advised.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English and Russian, so check with the provider if you need a specific language.

This tour offers a rare opportunity to go beyond Tbilisi’s surface and step into its industrial underground, revealing stories of perseverance, history, and local life that most visitors never see. If you’re craving an authentic adventure, this is a journey worth taking.

You can check availability for your dates here: