Citadel Express

Citadel Express Overview

I found myself roaming the cobbled lanes of Tbilisi one early spring morning, and the Citadel Express appeared like a hidden gem tucked into the bustling heart of the city – literally, it’s on Orpiri Deadend 5, just a few steps away from the historic Old Town. The building looks almost medieval with its stone façade, but once you step inside, it’s a surprisingly modern 4‑star refuge. The lobby is airy, with exposed brick walls that give off a warm, almost rustic vibe, and a couple of local art pieces you don’t see in typical tourist brochures.

Parking is a bit of a puzzle – the street is narrow, and you’ll have to pull into a one‑story garage behind a small bakery. The staff at the front desk are super friendly and actually remember your name if you drop it in the first few minutes. They’ll guide you to the elevator, which is a little short and a bit of a climb, but the view from the top floor is worth it: you get a sweeping panorama of the city’s skyline, the winding Mtkvari River, and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the cable car that hugs the hill. Honestly, the check‑in experience is quick and breezy – no long lines, just a quick card swipe and a polite nod.

You can’t talk about Citadel Express without mentioning the noise level – it’s not a quiet hotel; it’s in the middle of the city, so you’ll hear the distant clamor of traffic, the chatter of locals, and sometimes the clinking of glasses from a nearby bar. But that’s part of the charm, you know what? The room itself is a cozy oasis: a king-sized bed with linens that feel like a cloud, a small balcony that opens to a view of the city’s streetlights, and a surprisingly powerful heating system that keeps the room toasty during Tbilisian winters. The bathroom is modest but spotless, with a rain shower that is surprisingly refreshing after a day of walking. The only real critique is that the Wi‑Fi signal is a little spotty – good for a digital detox, but not ideal if you’re trying to stream your favorite show.

The real highlight for me was the breakfast spread. It’s an all‑day buffet with a good mix of local and Western options: fresh sourdough, a variety of cheeses, and a station where you can watch a pastry chef whip up khachapuri on the spot. I couldn’t resist the fluffy pancakes topped with honey and walnuts – a genuine Georgian treat. The side of black tea, brewed in a traditional pot, was aromatic enough to make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy café. They also offer a small garden terrace where you can sip tea while listening to the distant bells of the nearby cathedral.

If you’re planning a day out, the hotel’s location is unbeatable. The famous Rustaveli Avenue is just a ten‑minute walk away, and you can hop on a metro or a taxi to the Mtatsminda Park, where the cable car gives a spectacular view of the entire city. The Old Town’s narrow lanes, with their colorful balconies and the historic sulfur bathhouses, are right around the corner. For the foodies, there’s a street vendor selling khinkali that’s a must‑try, and a small café offering the best gelato in town – literally, the best gelato.

In short, the Citadel Express feels like a home away from home for anyone who wants an authentic Tbilisi experience. The staff’s warmth, the modest but functional rooms, and the unbeatable location make it a standout. You’ll leave with the taste of fresh bread, the scent of fresh rain, and a feeling that you’ve truly been part of the city’s pulse. If you’re looking for a place that’s part historic, part modern, and all genuine, this is the spot for you.

Citadel Express Accommodations

Reviews of Citadel Express

• Very Good – Rachel from Australia – August 2, 2025 (8/10)

  The highlight of my stay was the amazing view from the window, really beautiful. The breakfast was also great and a nice way to start the day. If you stay here, don’t forget to feed the cats 🙂
  
  What could be improved: On the downside, the TV didn’t work, the bed was quite hard and uncomfortable, and the bathroom had a musty smell.

• Wonderful – Anjali from India – July 28, 2025 (9/10)

  The view from the room was really scenic.
  All amenities available.
  Located nearby Narikala Fortress a little uphill walk.
  Breakfast is available.
  
  What could be improved: The room was small comparatively but clean. You cannot blackout the room there's a little amount of light coming all the time from the upper window but manageable.

• remarkable and quiet – Muhamad from Malaysia – July 11, 2025 (10/10)

  The team was kind and greeted with smile, helped with luggage storage and amazing breakfast spread, the team in restaurant have good sense of music choice and make excellent coffee
  
  What could be improved: The toilet smelled funky maybe from sulphur?
  but the view was excellent. maybe can turn off the light strobing to the glass window as we dont get good evening view from the sharp glare. overall 9.5/10

• Exceptional – Kate from New Zealand – July 3, 2025 (10/10)

  Comfy, spacious, good value for money

• Very Good – Larry from United States – June 22, 2025 (8/10)

  They need to remove the spotlights shining on the attic dormer windows. They prevent opening of the windows for ventilation and having a darkened room for sleep.

• Comfortable and modern – Jack from Australia – June 20, 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing location, overlooking the river. Very comfortable and clean room. Friendly staff and generous breakfast

• Perfect stay – Bence from Hungary – June 11, 2025 (10/10)

  Good location,the staff was friendly and helpful. We could check-in late. And after check-out, we could leave our luggages there. The view from the room is amazing. And the breakfast was perfect with a wide variety of choice.

• Good location 👌 friendly staffs – Jibin from India – May 30, 2025 (9/10)

  Very good location ,staffs are very friendly and the breakfast was very good quality

• Exceptional – Andew from Malaysia – April 13, 2025 (10/10)

  Friendly staff

• Exceptional – Andew from Malaysia – April 11, 2025 (10/10)

  The night shift receptionist was very friendly. Before we even reached the hotel entrance, he saw us dragging our luggage from a distance and immediately came over to help. The surroundings were beautiful, and the room was clean and comfortable. The location was excellent.

Surroundings