Avlabari is the neighbourhood on the hill east of the old town, around the Tsminda Sameba Cathedral. It was historically an Armenian quarter and retains some of its village-like character despite the cathedral complex built at its heart. The narrow streets and old stone houses here feel genuinely residential rather than tourist-oriented.
The district offers good views back over the Mtkvari River to the old town and Narikala. A walk through the lanes around the cathedral reveals old carved gateways, small courtyard houses, and occasional glimpses of the mountain range to the north. The neighbourhood is most pleasant in the morning before the tour groups arrive at the cathedral.