The cable car from Rike Park (next to the iconic Peace Bridge) runs 11am-11pm daily for 2.50 gel one way. But here's the photographer's secret: timing is absolutely everything for those Instagram-worthy shots everyone's chasing.

Arrive 6pm in summer, 5pm in winter — This gives you crucial time to scout the fortress ruins and find your perfect composition before golden hour hits. The fortress itself is free once you're up there, with incredible views spanning both Old Tbilisi's terracotta rooftops and the modern glass towers across the river.

The magic happens around 7-8pm when city lights start flickering on while there's still natural light in the sky. Position yourself on the fortress walls facing west for sunset shots, then pivot east for the twinkling city panorama. Pro tip: bring a tripod for those dreamy blue hour shots.

Skip the cable car down and walk the 15-minute descent through Abanotubani district instead. The cobblestone path winds past ancient sulfur baths with doorway frames perfect for silhouette shots, and the changing perspective gives you completely different angles of the city below.