The station began its operations in 1880 with the opening of the Baku-Sabunchi-Surakhany railway, intended for passenger service. The first building of the Tiflis railway station was constructed by the time the Baku-Tiflis railway was launched.

The project of the Tiflis railway station was completed by architect H. K. Vasilyev in 1882. However, at the initial stage, the project in Moorish style was developed by Professor Bruni, artist Drittenpreis, and others, resulting from the collaborative work of architects and artists. The station was put into operation in 1883.