City tour in Tbilisi by car

Explore Tbilisi’s Most Iconic Spots in a 7-Hour Private Car Tour

This city tour in Tbilisi by car offers a comprehensive introduction to Georgia’s vibrant capital for $80.00 per person. With a duration of approximately 7 hours, the tour covers a wide array of attractions, from historic landmarks to scenic viewpoints. A highly qualified guide leads the way, making sure you get detailed insights along the route, while private transportation ensures a comfortable experience. The tour begins at 11:00 am and includes pickup, making it convenient for visitors staying in or near the city center.

This private experience is perfect for those who want an in-depth exploration of Tbilisi’s most important sights without the hassle of self-driving. It is especially suitable for travelers eager to see the city’s cultural highlights, scenic spots, and historic sites in a single day. While some attractions involve additional fees, most stops are included in the package, providing a good value for such a rich itinerary.

Key Points

• Private guided vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day
• Tour covers 10 diverse stops, from ethnographic museums to scenic parks
• Admission fees are included at key sites such as the Chronicles of Georgia and Sabaduri Forest
• Highlights include Turtle Lake, Mtatsminda Park, and the Sulfur Baths
• Pickup and drop-off are offered, simplifying the logistics
• The guide’s expertise guarantees engaging stories about Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and traditions

Touring the Ethnographic Museum of Georgia

The tour starts at the Giorgi Chitaia Open Air Museum of Ethnography, where about 70 traditional houses and farm buildings from regions like Samtskhe-Javakheti, Guria, Samegrelo, and others are displayed. This stop offers an authentic glimpse into Georgia’s diverse regional architecture and lifestyle. While an admission fee of not included applies, the exterior displays alone set the stage for understanding the local culture.

The museum visit lasts about 40 minutes, providing enough time to appreciate the different architectural styles and regional distinctions. It’s an excellent starting point for travelers interested in Georgia’s cultural diversity, although it is worth noting that entry fees are not included in the tour price.

Turtle Lake: Relaxation and Scenic Views

Next, the tour heads to Turtle Lake, a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. This 30-minute stop includes admission and provides opportunities for boating, walking, and taking in panoramic views of Tbilisi. The lake’s location offers a high vantage point, making it an ideal place for photos or just enjoying a peaceful moment away from the city bustle.

Visitors get to explore the area at their own pace, with scenic surroundings perfect for relaxing or snapping memorable photos. The admission fee is included, making this stop both enjoyable and convenient.

Mtatsminda Park and the Mountain Cable Car

A highlight of the tour is Mtatsminda Park, reached via a mountain-cable car that transports visitors 730 meters above sea level. The one-hour stop provides sweeping views of Tbilisi, along with entertainment options for children, including the Ferris wheel and amusement rides.

While the admission ticket to the park isn’t included, the cable car fare of $2 is affordable. From this vantage point, travelers appreciate the chance to see Tbilisi’s skyline framed by the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

Visiting Tbilisi Zoo: A Close-Up with Local Wildlife

The Tbilisi Zoo offers around one hour to encounter animals native to Georgia and the Caucasus. Visitors can see endemic species such as Colchian pheasants, Caucasian vultures, as well as elephants, tigers, lions, and monkeys.

Most animals are characteristic of the region, giving a glimpse of Georgia’s natural fauna. Entry fees are not included, but the zoo’s diverse collection makes it a fun stop, especially for families or those interested in local wildlife.

The Chronicles of Georgia: Monument of History

Passing through the Tbilisi Reservoir and the Tbilisi Sea, the tour stops at the Chronicles of Georgia monument, a 30-minute visit. Created by Zurab Tsereteli, this 30-meter-high column depicts kings, queens, heroes, and stories from the life of Christ.

This impressive monument, often compared to Stonehenge, offers a powerful visual narrative of Georgia’s historical and religious heritage. Admission is included, allowing visitors to walk around this striking memorial and learn about Georgia’s storytelling through sculpture.

The Symbolic Kartlis Deda and Old Tbilisi Panorama

The Mother of Georgia statue, Kartlis Deda, overlooks the city from a hill accessible via cable car. The 30-minute stop offers panoramic views of Old Tbilisi and the Narikala Fortress. The statue holds a cup of wine for hospitality and a sword for defense, symbolizing Georgian character.

From here, the tour proceeds on foot to the Old Town, where travelers can admire balconies, narrow streets, and the waterfall along the Fig Valley. The walk, lasting about 35 minutes, reveals the charming architecture and explains the unique styles of the balconies, which historically served different purposes across eras.

Metekhi Cathedral and the Birthplace of Tbilisi

Starting from the Metekhi plateau, the tour explores the historic cathedral with sweeping views of the Narikala Fortress. The 35-minute stop includes an introduction to Vakhang Gorgasali, the founder of Tbilisi, and the city’s early settlement history.

This site offers a glimpse into Georgia’s religious heritage and urban origins, making it a meaningful stop for understanding the city’s foundation.

Sulfur Baths: Legends and Local Lore

A visit to the Sulfur Baths area provides 20 minutes to hear stories about the founding legend of Tbilisi and see the remaining baths, which are numbered from simple 5 to royal and variegated. This historic district, where Marco Polo was said to have bathed, remains a symbol of Tbilisi’s thermal spring tradition.

Most baths require an admission fee, included in the tour, and the guide shares lesser-known facts about their names and significance, adding depth to this iconic location.

Discovering Old Tbilisi and the Rike Park Bridge

The tour concludes with a walk across the Bridge of Peace, a glass pedestrian bridge symbolizing harmony and openness. The 30-minute stop allows appreciation of its architectural beauty and symbolism.

Next, visitors take a cable car to the Tbilisi Fortress, from where they view the old city’s houses and narrow streets. Rike Park features unusual pipes and modern architecture, contrasting with the historic surroundings. This combination of old and new encapsulates Tbilisi’s unique character.

Logistics, Value, and Practical Details

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort for the entire day, and the guide’s expertise provides engaging commentary. Pickup is offered, streamlining the experience, and the private tour means only your group participates, allowing for tailored pacing.

While lunch and some attraction fees are not included, most major sites have included admission tickets, such as the Chronicles of Georgia, the ethnographic museum, and the Sabaduri Forest.

The total cost of attractions not included in the fee is modest, and the flexibility of a private tour allows for personalized attention. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Tbilisi’s highlights, especially if they appreciate scenic views, cultural sites, and local stories.

Tbilisi’s City Tour: Who Will Appreciate It Most

This 7-hour private tour offers a balanced look at Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and scenery. The route is carefully curated to include must-see landmarks like Metekhi Cathedral, Kartlis Deda, and Turtle Lake, along with scenic viewpoints like the Mtatsminda Park.

Travelers interested in learning about Georgia’s heritage, enjoying panoramic views, and seeing diverse neighborhoods will find this tour especially rewarding. The private format allows for flexibility and personalized attention, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups.

Final Thoughts on the Tbilisi City Car Tour

This private, guided city tour provides a rundown of Tbilisi’s most significant sights in around 7 hours. Its well-structured itinerary includes both cultural landmarks and scenic spots, offering a rich experience for those eager to understand and see the city.

While some attractions involve additional fees, most are included, adding value to the $80 price. The expert guide and private transportation make it an efficient and comfortable way to cover a lot of ground, especially for first-time visitors.

This tour is best suited for those who want an informative, relaxed day exploring Tbilisi’s diverse neighborhoods, historic sites, and scenic vistas—all within a manageable schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families and individuals interested in Georgia’s culture and scenery.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or lunch separately.

How much are the attraction entrance fees?
Most fees, such as those for Sabaduri Forest, Mtatsminda Park, and the Ethnographic Museum, are not included but are generally affordable, with some attractions like the cable car costing around $2.

Is this tour suitable for mobility-impaired visitors?
The itinerary involves walking at some stops, such as Old Tbilisi and Metekhi Cathedral, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

Can I customize the tour?
Being a private experience, it offers some flexibility, and the guide can tailor the pacing or focus based on your interests.