Old Town Tbilisi: Walking Tour & Wine Tasting with a Local Guide

Exploring Old Town Tbilisi becomes an engaging experience with the Old Town Tbilisi: Walking Tour & Wine Tasting with a Local Guide. For just $19 per person, this 3-hour 15-minute tour offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s culture, history, and cuisine. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour covers major landmarks, historical sites, and hidden gems, making it ideal for those eager to see the city’s heart in a relaxed, friendly setting.

A standout feature is the wine tasting, which showcases Georgia’s status as the birthplace of wine, and the traditional bakery stop, where visitors can sample fresh local bread. While the tour is rich in cultural insights and visuals, it includes several stops on foot, so comfortable footwear is recommended. This tour suits travelers interested in a balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and tastings, with a small group size ensuring personalized attention.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $19, including a wine tasting and bakery stop
• Duration of about 3 hours 15 minutes, covering major Old Town landmarks
• Guided by local experts who share compelling stories and tips
• Includes a cable car ride for panoramic views of Tbilisi
• Free wine tasting with Georgia’s renowned wines
• Small group experience limited to 15 participants for a personal touch

Discovering Tbilisi’s Historic Landmarks on Foot

This walking tour explores Tbilisi’s most significant sites, with professional guides leading the way. The journey begins at Sculpture Group Berikaoba, located near the Dry Bridge, where lively figures celebrate Georgia’s artistic spirit and cultural traditions. From there, the tour visits Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, dating back to the 6th century, offering a glimpse into the city’s spiritual foundations.

Next, the Bridge of Peace captures attention with its modern glass and steel design, spanning the Mtkvari River. This striking structure symbolizes Tbilisi’s blend of history and modernity. Visitors also enjoy a walk along Shardeni Street, a lively pedestrian thoroughfare filled with cafes and local shops in the Upper Kala district.

Exploring Iconic Religious and Cultural Sites

The tour includes visits to key religious landmarks, like the Sioni Cathedral, part of the Sioni complex, which features the Cathedral of the Assumption and twin bell towers. Named after a sacred mountain in Jerusalem, Sioni Cathedral highlights Georgia’s religious heritage. Near the cathedral, a Tamada statue pays homage to the traditional Georgian toastmaster, symbolizing the importance of wine and communal feasts in Georgian culture.

The Great Synagogue of Tbilisi, built between 1895 and 1903 by Georgian Jews from Akhaltsikhe, adds another layer of historical depth. Its impressive architecture is a reminder of the diverse communities that shape the city’s character. The Tree of Life monument, crafted in 2016 by artist David Monavardishvili, offers a contemporary artistic perspective, with visitors encouraged to explore what inspired its creation.

Unique Landmarks and Artistic Highlights

One of the tour’s highlights is the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, recognized for its distinct architecture and cultural significance. The clock tower in front of the theater is a well-known city feature, and guides explain why this spot is so beloved by locals. Adjacent to this, Europe Square displays the EU flags, reflecting Georgia’s aspirations for closer ties with Europe.

The Rike Park area serves as the gateway for the cable car ride that takes visitors to Narikala Fortress. While the cable car ticket is not included in the tour price, the 15-minute ride provides breathtaking views of Tbilisi and its surrounding landscapes. The park itself is a vibrant hub of city life, perfect for strolling before or after the ascent.

The Iconic Kartlis Deda and the Mtkvari River

At the top of the cable car ride, visitors see Kartlis Deda, the Mother of Georgia monument. This tall figure symbolizes the nurturing and protective spirit of the Georgian people, with her welcoming stance representing hospitality. The monument offers great photo opportunities and is a fitting conclusion to the sightseeing route.

Down by the Mtkvari River, the Tamada statue standing in front of Metekhi Church emphasizes Georgia’s wine traditions, with the bronze sculpture inspired by an ancient figurine over 2,000 years old. The statue gazes down the river, connecting Georgia’s deep-rooted cultural rituals with the city’s scenic waterfront.

Tasting Georgia’s Cultural Flavors

A central part of this tour is the traditional bakery stop, where visitors get a taste of fresh, local bread. The bakery visit is a relaxed chance to enjoy authentic Georgian flavors, with a typical lunch costing around 3-5 GEL (roughly 2-3 euros). This gastronomic experience complements the sightseeing, giving guests a tangible taste of Georgian culinary traditions.

The wine tasting is a major highlight, given Georgia’s reputation as the original birthplace of wine. The tour includes a free sampling of Georgian wines, allowing guests to appreciate local varieties and learn about Georgia’s long-standing wine-production history.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins at 17 Ioane Shavteli Street and finishes at Freedom Square, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more attentive and engaging experience.

Guides are local experts, providing insightful stories and insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and explore beyond the tour. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, and service animals are allowed. It’s worth noting that most travelers can participate, but wine tasting is restricted to those 18 years and older.

Booking, Pricing, and Cancellation Policy

The price of $19 includes professional guide services, free wine tasting, and cable car ride. Lunch at the bakery is not included but is inexpensive and easily accessible. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans or unforeseen weather conditions.

Old Town Tbilisi: A Cultural and Visual Feast

This walking tour offers an engaging way to see Tbilisi’s key sights, combining history, architecture, and local flavors. The small group size and expert guides make it a personalized experience, rich with stories that bring the city’s landmarks to life. The included wine tasting and bakery stop give the tour a delicious edge, making it more than just sightseeing.

While the cable car ride is optional and not included in the tour fee, it offers stunning views of the city and adds a memorable finish to the experience. Those with an interest in Georgia’s cultural heritage, religious sites, and culinary traditions will find this tour a well-rounded introduction to Old Tbilisi.

This tour combines value, cultural insight, and fun, making it a great choice for visitors wanting an authentic taste of Georgia’s capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but wine tasting is only for guests 18 years and older.

Does the tour include transportation?
The main route is on foot, but the cable car ride is an optional activity, with the ticket not included in the tour price.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves several stops and walking through Old Town’s streets.

Can I get lunch during or after the tour?
The bakery stop provides a light, inexpensive meal. For a full meal, additional dining options are available nearby.

How long is the entire tour?
The guided walking experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including stops, with the cable car ride adding about 15 minutes.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
It combines historical sites, local stories, a bakery experience, and wine tasting, all led by knowledgeable local guides, ensuring an authentic and engaging journey through Old Tbilisi.