Tbilisi Walking Tour with Cable Car, Wine Tasting & Bread Bite

Explore Tbilisi’s Iconic Landmarks with a Private Guide

This Tbilisi Walking Tour with Cable Car, Wine Tasting & Bread Bite offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into Georgia’s capital city. Priced at $77.50 per person and lasting about 4 hours, the tour provides a personalized experience with a private guide, ensuring dedicated attention and tailored insights. The tour departs either in the morning or afternoon, making it flexible for different schedules, and includes air-conditioned transport for smooth transitions between stops.

Designed for travelers eager to see the main attractions without feeling rushed, this tour combines scenic views, historic sites, and local flavors. The itinerary is packed with highlights like the Metekhi Cathedral, the Mother of Kartli Monument, and Narikala Fortress, all complemented by a cable car ride that grants panoramic views of Old Tbilisi. The inclusion of complimentary wine tasting adds a delightful local touch, perfect for those wanting to experience Georgia’s famous wine culture.

While the tour covers diverse terrain and involves some walking, it remains accessible to most travelers and offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photo moments. Its focus on key city sights makes it an excellent choice for first-time visitors, especially those interested in history, architecture, and local traditions.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour with dedicated guide attention
• Four-hour experience covering major Tbilisi landmarks
• Includes a cable car ride to the Mother of Kartli monument
• Visits historic sites like Metekhi Cathedral, Narikala Fortress, and Jvaris Mama
• Complimentary wine tasting to enjoy Georgia’s renowned wines
• Comfortable travel in air-conditioned vehicle, with flexible morning or afternoon departure options

Starting at Old Town Tbilisi: The City’s Heart and Soul

The tour begins in Old Town Tbilisi, a vibrant area where the city’s diverse architecture and history come to life. Situated along the Kura River, Tbilisi dates back to the 5th century AD and has long been a crossroads of cultures. Here, the mix of medieval, neoclassical, and modern structures reflects its layered past, and walking through the narrow streets offers a tangible sense of history.

This part of the tour introduces the city’s dynamic character, highlighting its multicultural background and religious diversity. The walk is on varied terrain with some stairs and uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic streets and viewpoints.

Visiting the Historic Metekhi Cathedral

One of the first stops is the Metekhi Cathedral of Assumption, built by King St Demetrius II in the late 13th century. Over the centuries, the church has experienced damage and restoration, reflecting its importance in Georgian spiritual life. During the Russian rule period, the site ceased to serve as a church and was used as a soldier base, with the citadel replaced by a jail until the Soviet era.

Today, the Metekhi Church stands as a symbol of resilience, with the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali erected nearby in 1961. The site offers sweeping views of the Kura River and the city, making it a favorite for photography and reflection on Tbilisi’s history.

Aerial Tramway to the Mother of Kartli Monument

The highlight of the tour is the cable car ride to the Mother of Kartli monument, erected in 1958 to mark Tbilisi’s 1500th anniversary. This 20-meter aluminum sculpture depicts a woman in traditional Georgian dress, holding a bowl of wine in her left hand and a sword in her right, symbolizing Georgia’s hospitality and strength.

The panoramic views from the cable car offer a breathtaking perspective of Old Tbilisi, with its rooftops, churches, and the river. This ride is a must-do for its combination of scenic beauty and cultural symbolism, giving visitors a sense of the city’s proud heritage.

Exploring Narikala Fortress and Its Views

Following the cable car, the tour visits Narikala Fortress, established in the 4th century as a Sasanian citadel. It was expanded during the reign of King David the Builder in the 12th century. The fortress has seen destruction and repair over the centuries, including damage from an earthquake in 1827.

Visitors enjoy walking among the ancient walls, taking in great views of Tbilisi from the heights. Though parts of the fortress are in ruins, the atmosphere is evocative of Georgia’s military history and strategic importance.

Bathing in the Thermal Waters at Leghvtakhevi Waterfall

After Narikala, the tour continues to the Sulfur Baths at Leghvtakhevi Waterfall. These thermal springs emerge from the ground at 40°C-50°C and have traditionally been used to treat skin issues, joint problems, and insomnia. The area also features the Love Lock Bridge nearby, where visitors can leave a lock symbolizing their visit or love for Tbilisi.

The waterfall flowing from the botanical garden adds a peaceful natural element to the experience, contrasting ancient stone structures with lush greenery and flowing water.

Visiting King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s Church: Jvaris Mama

Next, the tour visits Jvaris Mama, a 5th-century church built by King Vakhtang Gorgasali. The current structure dates mostly from the 16th century but has been restored multiple times due to destruction. Its legend links it to St Nino, a key figure in Georgia’s Christian history.

The church’s architecture showcases traditional Georgian ecclesiastical design, and its historical significance as a religious center adds depth to the city’s spiritual landscape.

Sioni Cathedral: A Historic Religious Center

The Sioni Cathedral is another key religious site, with origins in the 6th-7th centuries. Rebuilt in the 13th century by King David the Builder, the cathedral served as the main Georgian Orthodox church until the completion of Holy Trinity Cathedral in 2004.

Despite being damaged in 1226, the current structure retains elements from its medieval reconstruction. The cathedral’s history reflects Georgia’s enduring Christian tradition and architectural resilience.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater and the Iconic Clock Tower

Touring continues at the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, founded in 1981 by the renowned theatre and film director. The theater features a distinctive clock tower added in 2011, where a puppet angel strikes the bell on the hour, and a small screen shows scenes representing life’s stages.

This charming, artistic site adds a whimsical touch to the tour, highlighting Tbilisi’s vibrant contemporary culture alongside its historical sites.

Visiting Anchiskhati Basilica: The Oldest Surviving Church

The Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary dates back to the 6th century, built by King Dachi. It is notable as Tbilisi’s oldest church and once housed the treasured icon of Ancha from the 12th century. The basilica has undergone multiple restorations, with a brick belfry added in 1675 and a dome in the 1870s.

Today, it still functions as a place of worship and hosts the Anchiskhati Choir, known for Georgian polyphonic music. The church’s architecture and history make it a key piece in understanding Tbilisi’s religious and cultural identity.

The Modern Bridge of Peace and Optional River Boat Tour

The tour concludes at the Bridge of Peace, built in 2010 with a distinctive marine animal design by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi. The 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge connects the historic parts of the city with modern areas, symbolizing Georgia’s blend of tradition and innovation.

For an additional experience, visitors can opt for a river boat tour on the Mtkvari River, providing a different perspective on Tbilisi’s skyline and natural beauty.

Practical Tips and Tour Details

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, although the walking involves some terrain and stairs, so comfortable shoes are advised. The tour includes pick-up service and is accessible to most. It also offers group discounts, making it a flexible option for families or small groups.

The cable car ride and entry to sites are included, and the tour provides complimentary wine tasting, allowing visitors to savor Georgia’s renowned wines at no extra cost. Booking in advance is recommended, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before ensures flexibility.

Tbilisi’s Unique Charm in a Compact Tour

This 4-hour private walking tour captures the essence of Tbilisi through its historic sites, scenic viewpoints, and cultural highlights. The combination of walking, scenic rides, and local tastings makes it a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s capital. The expert guide ensures engaging storytelling, making each stop meaningful.

While it covers a broad range of sights in a short time, the tour’s pacing is generally comfortable, and the inclusion of transportation and entry fees adds value. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want an authentic taste of Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and local traditions in a manageable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking on varied terrain and some stairs, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What should I wear to visit the churches?
Visitors should wear head scarves and dresses when entering Orthodox churches. Short trousers are also discouraged for men. Scarves and dresses can be purchased near church entrances if needed.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are not refunded.

Is the wine tasting included in the price?
Yes, complimentary wine tasting is part of this tour, giving an authentic taste of Georgia’s famous wines without additional charge.

This Tbilisi Walking Tour with Cable Car, Wine Tasting & Bread Bite offers a lively, engaging way to explore Georgia’s capital—perfect for those wanting an insightful, scenic, and culturally rich experience in just a few hours.