Tbilisi Walking Tour Including Wine Tasting Cable Car and Bakery

Discover the essence of Tbilisi with this comprehensive walking tour that combines must-see landmarks and hidden gems, all for just $19 per person. The 4-hour experience is guided by knowledgeable local experts and includes wine tasting, a cable car ride, and delicious Georgian bread and lemonade. The tour starts at the Traveler’s Meeting Point, a casual space where you can meet fellow travelers, enjoy music, and sample a glass of wine. It then proceeds through a carefully curated itinerary, making stops at key sites like Metekhi Cathedral, the Mother of Georgia statue, Narikala Fortress, and more.

This tour is highly praised for its relaxed pace, expert guides, and value for money, with over 1,080 reviews averaging a perfect 5.0 rating. While the route covers many highlights, it involves quite a bit of walking, making it suitable for those comfortable with moderate activity. It’s a fantastic way to see Tbilisi’s architecture, history, and culture, especially for first-time visitors eager for an engaging overview.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $19, including wine tasting, cable car, and local snacks
• Duration of about 4 hours, with a leisurely pace suitable for most travelers
• Starts at Traveler’s Meeting Point, a social space with music and wine
• Visits iconic landmarks like Metekhi Cathedral, Narikala Fortress, and Mother of Georgia
• Includes a cable car ride offering spectacular views of the city
• Features a small group setting that fosters connection and personalized attention

The Tour Begins at the Traveler’s Meeting Point

The tour kicks off at a free social space called the Traveler’s Meeting Point in Tbilisi. Here, you can meet your guide and other participants, enjoy some music, and sip a glass of Georgia’s famous wine. This spot is perfect for warming up and settling into the lively atmosphere before heading out to explore.

This initial meeting sets the tone for the tour, emphasizing a relaxed, friendly environment. It also serves as a great place to get a brief overview of what’s to come, including tasting some local wine and snacks. The social aspect is highly valued in reviews, with many appreciating the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers early on.

Exploring Metekhi Cathedral and its Legends

From the meeting point, the tour proceeds to Metekhi Cathedral, located on the left bank of the Mtkvari River. This historic church sits on a cliff and is believed to have been built during the time of Vakhtang Gorgasali. Its scenic setting offers views over the river and old town.

Inside the cathedral, visitors learn about its origins—likely built on the site of an earlier structure—and its legend involving Saint Shushanik, transferred here in the 7th century. The site is also notable for its dramatic location and architectural style, making it a favorite photo stop. The free entry means no additional cost, and the peaceful ambiance provides a chance to appreciate Georgia’s religious architecture.

King Vakhtang Gorgasali and Europe Square

Next, the guide leads visitors to the Monument of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, a key figure in Georgian history, often credited with founding Tbilisi. The statue, located near the old town, celebrates his role in uniting the region and establishing the city.

A brief walk takes the group across Europe Square, a significant spot marking Georgia’s relationship with the European Union. Here, the focus is on Georgia’s European aspirations, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in the country’s modern political and cultural ties.

Rike Park and the Cable Car to Narikala Fortress

Rike Park is the newest recreational area in Tbilisi, with features like fountains, climbing walls, a children’s maze, and fancy bars. The park’s location near the Bridge of Peace—a stunning pedestrian bridge made of glass and steel with over 10,000 LED bulbs—makes it a lively part of the tour.

From Rike Park, the group boards a cable car to reach the Narikala Fortress. The cable car ride offers sweeping views of the city and river, providing a memorable visual experience. Narikala itself is an iconic medieval fortress overlooking Tbilisi, with impressive walls and a history that dates back centuries.

The Bridge of Peace and Architectural Charm

The Bridge of Peace is a must-see modern landmark, with its bow-shaped design and glowing LED lights creating a mesmerizing scene, especially at sunset or after dark. Constructed from Italian components, it links the old and new parts of the city, symbolizing Tbilisi’s blend of tradition and modernity.

This free attraction is often highlighted in reviews as a favorite photo spot. Its design makes it a symbol of the city, and it’s worth spending a few moments admiring its architecture and the views it offers across the river.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Tower and Its Charm

Next on the tour is the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, famous for its clock tower adorned with hundreds of tiles designed by Gabriadze himself. The tower features a small puppet theater, and every hour, an angel rings the bell with a small hammer.

Visitors can enjoy a short show at 12:00 or 19:00, called The Circle of Life, which adds a cultural and artistic touch to the experience. The architectural uniqueness of this tower makes it a favorite stop, with many reviews praising its visual appeal and storytelling charm.

Visiting Anchiskhati Basilica and Religious Heritage

The Anchiskhati Basilica is one of Georgia’s oldest churches, dating back to the 6th century. Located on Shavteli Street in the Upper Kala district, it was originally built by Dachi Ujarmeli and later received the name Anchiskhati.

Inside, visitors find a historic interior with preserved features. The church’s connection to the Virgin Mary and its ongoing role in Georgian religious life make it a meaningful stop. Entry is free, and modest attire is recommended for entry, especially for women needing to cover their heads.

The Patriarchate and Sioni Cathedral

The tour continues to the Patriarchate of Georgia, an important spiritual center, where visitors hear about its role in Georgia’s religious hierarchy. Nearby, the Sioni Cathedral stands as another historic church, believed to have been built by Vakhtang Gorgasali himself.

This area in Upper Kala showcases Georgia’s deep religious roots and architectural history. Both sites are free to enter and are known for their impressive stonework and history.

The Legend of the Tamada and Shardeni Street

A short stop is made at the Tamada statue, celebrating Georgia’s famous toastmasters who lead toasts at social gatherings. The guide shares stories about the toast tradition, which is an integral part of Georgian hospitality.

Then, the group walks along Shardeni Street, one of Tbilisi’s most lively pedestrian streets. Filled with cafes and shops, Shardeni offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for sightseeing, people-watching, and perhaps grabbing a quick snack.

Mother of Georgia and Narikala Fortress Views

A highlight of the tour is the cable car ride to the Mother of Georgia statue, a 20-meter aluminum figure symbolizing the Georgian spirit. She holds a bowl of wine in her left hand for friends and a sword in her right for enemies.

From this vantage point, visitors enjoy stunning panoramic views of Tbilisi and the river. The Narikala Fortress remains visible from afar, emphasizing the ancient city’s strategic location and historical importance.

Hot Springs and the Abanotubani District

The tour concludes with a visit to Abanotubani, the historic district famous for its hot springs and sulfur baths. Stops include the Chreli Abano Spa, a traditional sulfur bathhouse resembling a mosque, and the bustling Abanotubani street lined with public bathhouses.

Many reviews praise this area as a lively, authentic part of Tbilisi that offers a glimpse into the city’s well-being culture. The free entry to the district allows visitors to explore at their own pace or plan a future visit for a relaxing sulfur bath.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The entire 4-hour tour departs at 10:00 am from M/S “Avlabari” and ends back at the starting point. It’s suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age of 5 years. The tour operates rain or shine, and the group size is limited to 100 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

The tour includes professional guide services, wine tasting, a cable car ride, Georgian pie, and traditional lemonade. It does not include gratuities, and travelers are advised to carry cash for additional purchases or tips.

The Experience in Review

With a perfect 5.0 rating based on over 1,080 reviews, this tour consistently earns praise for its knowledgeable guides, well-planned itinerary, and value for money. Guides like Ungo, Roma, and Oki are frequently mentioned for their professionalism, engaging storytelling, and friendly demeanor.

Most reviews emphasize the relaxed pace and the opportunity to see major landmarks along with hidden spots in Tbilisi. The inclusion of wine tasting and a cable car ride elevates the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Who Should Book This Tour

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors looking for a rundown of Tbilisi’s highlights. It suits those who enjoy casual walking, cultural history, and local cuisine. The affordable price and small group size make it attractive for solo travelers, families, and couples alike.

Travelers comfortable with moderate walking will appreciate the relaxed pace, while those seeking a deeper cultural connection will find the stories and stops enriching. However, those expecting a luxurious or very fast-paced experience might find the four-hour duration a bit packed.

Tbilisi Walking Tour with Wine, Cable Car, and Hidden Gems

This tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sites and lesser-known spots, making it an excellent introduction to Tbilisi’s vibrant character. Combining history, architecture, local flavors, and spectacular views, it provides a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s capital city.

Despite being intensive, the relaxed pacing and friendly guides ensure a comfortable and engaging experience. Its affordability and inclusions like wine tasting and a cable car add great value, especially for travelers eager to see the city from multiple angles.

Whether visiting for the first time or returning for a deeper exploration, this tour is a reliable choice to capture the spirit of Tbilisi in a compact, enjoyable format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Tbilisi Walking Tour?
The tour costs $19 per person, which includes wine tasting, a cable car ride, and local snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 4 hours, starting at 10:00 am.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at M/S “Avlabari” in Tbilisi.

What landmarks will I visit?
Stops include Metekhi Cathedral, Mother of Georgia, Narikala Fortress, Europe Square, Rike Park, Bridge of Peace, Rezo Gabriadze Tower, Anchiskhati Basilica, Sioni Cathedral, Shardeni Street, and more.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the cable car ride is included, taking you from Rike Park to the Mother of Georgia statue.

Are the sites accessible for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years, and the tour is suitable for most children capable of walking moderate distances.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but travelers should dress appropriately and prepare for potential rain.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities are not included, but appreciated if you enjoyed the guide’s service.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to carry cash for additional purchases or tips and wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking and weather conditions.