Tbilisi with all its glory and originality. (group walking tour)

Explore Tbilisi’s Unique Sights and Local Charm

For just $20 per person, this 5-hour small-group walking tour offers an authentic look into Tbilisi, Georgia, packed with memorable stops and insightful commentary. Led by knowledgeable guides, it caters to those seeking a comprehensive yet intimate experience of the city’s highlights. With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour promises a relaxed pace and plenty of personalized attention. Expect to see famous landmarks, panoramic views, and quirky local spots, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors eager to understand Tbilisi’s rich character.

One of the tour’s standout features is the complimentary wine tasting, included in the price, which takes place at a cellar dating back to the 17th century. This adds a delicious cultural layer to the walking adventure, perfect for wine lovers or anyone wanting to sample authentic Georgian wines. The tour begins and ends at a central meeting point in the city, making it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring Tbilisi.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Only $20 per person for a full 5-hour experience.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers for a more personal connection.
• Rich Itinerary: Includes the Metekhi Cathedral, Kartlis Deda, sulfur baths, and the Bridge of Peace.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Panoramic views, local stories, and a wine tasting in a historic cellar.
• Accessible Stops: All locations are within the Old Town, with some attractions like the cable car at own expense.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.

Starting at the Metekhi Cathedral with a View of Old Tbilisi

The tour kicks off on Metekhi Plateau, offering a stunning view of the Old City and the Narikala Fortress. Here, the guide shares the origins of Tbilisi, describing the city’s earliest settlements before Vakhtang Gorgasali arrived. This spot is perfect for soaking in panoramic vistas and understanding the city’s foundation, all in approximately 30 minutes. Admission tickets to the Metekhi Cathedral are included, so you can admire its historic architecture firsthand.

Contacting Kartlis Deda, the Mother of Georgia

Next, the tour takes you to Kartlis Deda, the “Mother of Georgia” statue. You reach her by cable car, which is optional and costs about 2 USD. This iconic sculpture symbolizes the Georgian character, holding a cup of wine for friendliness and a sword for defense. The spot offers spectacular views of Tbilisi, making it an excellent photo opportunity. Guides explain the significance of the statue and the character it embodies, deepening your appreciation for local culture.

Exploring the Sulfur Baths and Their Legends

The Sulfur Baths area is a highlight, famous for Marco Polo’s association and the legend of Falcon and Tbilisi. This stop explores why 15 baths have survived out of the original 65, and the meaning behind their colorful names, from simple “5” baths to the “Royal” and “Variegated” baths.** The 30-minute visit includes admission, giving you the chance to marvel at the historic bath structures and hear stories about their significance in Tbilisi’s history.

Walking Through the Old Town and Fig Valley Waterfall

In the Old Town, the tour continues with a stroll along the Fig Valley, where a small waterfall adds a charming natural touch. The guide points out the distinctive Tbilisi balconies, explaining their architectural purpose and historical evolution. With about 20 minutes dedicated to this area, you’ll see why no two balconies are alike, each telling its own story. The area’s narrow streets and colorful buildings showcase the city’s quirky charm.

Crossing the Bridge of Peace and Visiting the Fortress

A walk across the Bridge of Peace introduces you to a modern symbol of the city’s unity. The glass and steel design reflects the city’s blend of old and new. The guide discusses its symbolism and the local reactions to nearby Rike Park’s contemporary structures, including glass skyscrapers. Afterward, a cable car ride (included in the itinerary) takes you to Tbilisi Fortress for spectacular views of old Tbilisi and its winding streets. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and provides an excellent vantage point for photos.

Experiencing Tbilisi’s Flavor and Cultural Spirit

Back in the Old Town, the tour delves into local life, cuisine, and traditions. The guide shares stories about Tbilisi residents, the city’s festivals like Tbilisoba, and the jokes on the Rezo Gabriadze theater turret. A highlight is the wine tasting in a 17th-century cellar, where only exclusive wines are stored. This free tasting, lasting an hour, offers a chance to sample authentic Georgian wines with commentary from the winemaker—a delightful and flavorful addition to the tour.

Practical Details and Additional Considerations

The tour departs from Alani1 Vakhtang Gorgasali St and ends back at the same meeting point. It is designed to suit most travelers, with good weather required for the cable car and walking portions. The group size is limited to ensure intimacy and personalized attention. Additional costs include about 2 USD for the cable car and dinner, which is not included. The tasting at the cellar is free for participants.

The Experience Led by Skilled Guides

Guides like Nino, Soso, and Revaz receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability. They bring stories alive, explaining the city’s history, architecture, and culture with engaging commentary that enriches each stop. Their familiarity with local legends, landmarks, and customs makes this tour both educational and entertaining.

Why This Tour Excels and Who Will Appreciate It

This Tbilisi walking tour offers true value for money, combining historic sights, scenic views, and cultural insights in just five hours. The inclusion of wine tasting and local storytelling makes it especially appealing to those wanting an immersive experience without feeling rushed. It is perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown of the city’s most iconic and quirky attractions.

While the group size is small and the tour is accessible, travelers should be prepared for some walking and optional cable car rides. The tour’s structure ensures a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and tasting, providing a well-rounded taste of Tbilisi’s personality.

Tbilisi with All Its Glory and Originality: A Worthwhile Journey

This tour captures the essence of Tbilisi, blending historical landmarks, panoramic views, and local flavor in a manageable and engaging format. The small-group setup guarantees a more personalized experience, and the expert guides’ storytelling elevates the visit with interesting facts and legends. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, educational, and fun way to explore the Georgian capital.

The main strength lies in its diverse stops, from ancient temples to modern bridges, and the wine tasting adds a memorable culinary touch. Although it covers a lot in five hours, the pacing feels natural, thanks to the compact itinerary. This tour offers a solid introduction to Tbilisi’s sights and spirit for first-time visitors or those wanting a concise but meaningful overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible and suitable for most travelers, with manageable walking distances and interesting sights for all ages.

How much does the cable car cost?
The cable car ride costs about $2 USD and is optional for reaching Kartlis Deda and Tbilisi Fortress.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, dinner is not included, but the tour features a complimentary wine tasting, which is free for participants.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The tour involves walking and some elevation changes, but it is generally manageable for most visitors.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the central meeting point in Tbilisi at Alani1 Vakhtang Gorgasali St.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of iconic landmarks, panoramic views, storytelling, and a wine tasting makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi’s culture and sights.

How much should I book in advance?
Most bookings are made about 11 days in advance, indicating good planning for travelers.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by ushba travel, known for their engaging and informative city tours.

This Tbilisi with all its glory and originality tour offers a practical, fun, and insightful way to discover the city’s highlights, making it a worthwhile choice for newcomers and seasoned visitors alike.