Mtskheta and Tbilisi Tour: Highlights of Georgia

Discover Georgia’s Gems on a Full-Day Private Tour

This Mtskheta and Tbilisi tour offers an impressive journey through Georgia’s most iconic sites for $98 per person, lasting approximately 8 to 10 hours. With private transportation and a flexible itinerary, it’s ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth, personalized experience. The tour features both a car ride through Mtskheta and a walking exploration of Tbilisi, ensuring you see the key highlights at your own pace.

Included in the package are pick-up and drop-off services, bottled water, and a one-way cable car ride, making logistics convenient and straightforward. This tour is highly booked in advance—about 40 days ahead on average—and is suitable for most travelers, with the added comfort of a private setting.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the extensive stops and sights make it a full, enriching day dedicated to discovering Georgia’s history, architecture, and scenic views. A standout feature is its ability to combine historic monuments, natural beauty, and modern landmarks all within one day, appealing especially to those eager to experience Georgia’s cultural tapestry.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience with personalized control over stops
• Includes transportation, bottled water, and cable car for easy access to key sites
• Visit both Mtskheta and Tbilisi in one day, covering major attractions
• Highlights include Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Church, and Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Ideal for travelers wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning
• Booking is recommended 40 days in advance due to popularity

Exploring the Heart of Tbilisi at Rike Park

The tour begins at Rike Park, Tbilisi’s newest recreational spot on the left bank of the river Kura. This modern park is lively and family-friendly, featuring attractions like singing and dancing fountains, an artificial climbing wall, a children’s maze, and a mega-chess board. Its central location makes it easy to identify, right next to the Bridge of Peace, a striking modern glass-and-steel footbridge designed by Michele De Lucchi.

Rike Park also hosts the cable car station that takes visitors up to the Narikala Fortress. Visitors can enjoy a quick 25-minute stop here, perfect for stretching legs, taking photos, or relaxing before further exploration. The park’s lively atmosphere adds a contemporary touch to the tour’s mix of historical and scenic sights.

The Bridge of Peace: Georgia’s Modern Landmark

Next on the agenda is the Bridge of Peace, an eye-catching, 15-minute visit. Opened in 2010, this avant-garde structure features a glass-and-steel design with a distinctive, mostly glass canopy and a roof that many find unnecessary but undeniably striking. Its modern look contrasts with Georgia’s historic buildings, making it a popular photo spot.

The bridge crosses the Mtkvari River, connecting the Old Town with Rike Park. While it’s a brief stop, the contemporary architecture adds a fresh perspective to the tour, providing perfect opportunities for photos of the city skyline and river views.

The Aerial Tramway Offers Unmatched Views

A 15-minute cable car ride takes visitors from the starting point in Rike Park to Narikala Fortress. This included one-way ticket grants sweeping views of Tbilisi’s skyline, the Kura River, and the surrounding mountains.

As the cable car ascends, stunning vistas unfold, giving a sense of the city’s topography. The ride is smooth and quick, and it’s a highlight for those who enjoy scenic transportation and panoramic photos.

The Historic Ruins of Narikala Fortress

Perched above the Old Town, Narikala Fortress dates back to the 4th century, originally serving as a Persian citadel. Most of its walls were built in the 8th century by Arab emirs, and the fortress has changed hands multiple times—Persians, Turks, and Georgians each left their mark.

Today, it’s a picturesque ruin with mostly intact walls that offer spectacular views of Tbilisi. The 15-minute stop here allows exploration of the fortress grounds and photo opportunities of the city’s rooftops and river. Its historical significance combines with the scenic vantage point, making it a memorable part of the tour.

The Natural Beauty of Dzveli Tbilisi Sulphur Waterfall

From the fortress, the tour takes a 15-minute walk to the Dzveli Tbilisi Sulphur Waterfall, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by cliffs, this natural waterfall offers a refreshing stop in the city center, where the warm mineral waters are said to have healing properties.

Its setting provides a scenic, almost secretive feel amidst the bustling city. The waterfall’s presence highlights Tbilisi’s unique blend of urban life and natural thermal springs.

The Iconic Abanotubani Bath District

A 20-minute visit to Abanotubani introduces travelers to Tbilisi’s famous bathhouse district. Built between the 16th and 19th centuries, the district’s baths are still operational today, rebuilt and improved over centuries.

Abanotubani is notable both historically and culturally, with its famous sulfur baths attracting locals for centuries. Visitors can see the traditional bathhouses and learn about their role in the city’s development, making this an essential stop to understand Tbilisi’s unique character.

Tbilisi’s Bustling Tatar Maidan and Shardeni Street

The Meidan Bazaar has historically been a vibrant trading square, once known as Tatar Maidan. Here, you find an active market with foodstuffs, drinks, and local crafts, reflecting Georgia’s trading traditions.

Following that, Jan Shardeni Street is a pedestrian thoroughfare famous for its lively atmosphere, cafes, and street performers. A 20-minute walk along this charming street offers a glimpse into Tbilisi’s modern social scene and its blend of old and new.

The Oldest Church: Anchiskhati Basilica

The Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, built in the 6th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s son, Dachi. Historically known as the church of the bells, it was the only church permitted to ring bells in ancient times.

A 20-minute stop allows visitors to admire its architectural simplicity and surviving relics, offering a tangible connection to Georgia’s early Christian history.

The Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

Located in Tbilisi’s Old Town, the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater features a unique building designed by Gabriadze himself. This 15-minute stop gives a chance to appreciate the architecture and learn about its repertoire, which includes shows like “The Autumn of My Spring” and “Stalingrad”.

While not a performance, the theater’s facade and ambiance reflect Georgia’s vibrant arts scene, providing some cultural flavor in a compact visit.

The Magnificent Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral

Known as Sameba, the Tbilisi Holy Trinity Cathedral is the main cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church. This 30-minute stop allows visitors to admire its imposing architecture, intricate details, and panoramic views from its surrounding grounds.

Its significance in Georgian religious life and its impressive size make it a fitting finale to the city tour, offering both spiritual and visual impact.

The Enchanting Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

After exploring Tbilisi, the tour moves to Mtskheta, visiting the Jvari Church, a hilltop monastery with breathtaking views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Built in the 6th century, it’s a symbol of Georgian Christianity.

Next, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, an 11th-century site, is renowned for the legend that the robe of Jesus is buried there. Its serene setting and spiritual significance make it a highlight of the journey.

The walk through Mtskheta’s charming streets and the visit to a local bazaar for Georgian sweets and crafts further enrich the experience. The stops total about 30 minutes each, combining history and local flavor.

The Colossal Chronicles of Georgia

The Chronicles of Georgia is a towering stone monument often called the Stonehenge of Tbilisi. Depicting Christ’s life and Georgia’s history, this massive sculpture complex provides a striking visual story of the nation’s past.

A 30-minute stop here lets visitors appreciate the scale and storytelling of this impressive site, which adds a unique, artistic dimension to the day’s sightseeing.

Practical Aspects and Tour Logistics

This private tour offers the convenience of pickup and drop-off services, making transportation effortless. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, with stops at each site tailored to the group’s pace.

Included is a cable car ride, which provides panoramic views of Tbilisi, and the guided walking tours in the city are designed to showcase the most important landmarks efficiently.

Notably, lunch is not included, so guests have the option to explore local eateries during free time or bring their own snacks. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience, and is confirmed upon booking with flexibility for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Valuable?

This tour appeals to those wanting an all-in-one glimpse of Georgia’s sights in a single day, with the comfort of private transportation. It’s particularly good for visitors who enjoy a mix of historical monuments, scenic views, and vibrant city streets.

Since the tour is customizable and paced at the group’s preference, it suits both history buffs and those looking for a relaxed exploration. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints like Narikala Fortress and the monumental Chronicles of Georgia make it especially appealing for photography lovers.

Final Thoughts on the Mtskheta and Tbilisi Tour

This comprehensive private tour offers a well-rounded experience of Georgia’s highlights in one day, combining historical sites, modern architecture, and natural beauty. The $98 price point includes transportation, a cable car, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, making it good value for the depth of sights covered.

The tour’s standout feature is how it balances guided visits with free time at major landmarks, ensuring a personalized experience. The high praise for the guide’s expertise underlines the quality of the narration and storytelling, adding warmth and insight to each location.

Limited by the fact that lunch is not included, travelers should plan accordingly, but the extensive stops and scenic views more than compensate. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors or anyone eager to see Georgia’s iconic sites without the stress of planning or large group crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking or uneven terrain, so it’s best for those comfortable with light walking.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to reserve about 40 days ahead due to the tour’s popularity.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, giving flexibility for guests to choose local eateries during free time.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on pace and time spent at each site.

Are transportation and tickets included?
Yes, private transportation, pickup/drop-off, and the cable car ticket are included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can decide what sites to prioritize within the schedule, making it adaptable to your interests.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the high rating and positive feedback highlight the guide’s exceptional knowledge and storytelling ability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water (provided), and perhaps a camera for the scenic views and photo opportunities.

This Mtskheta and Tbilisi Highlights tour combines the best of Georgia in a manageable, enjoyable package—perfect for those wanting a thorough, personalized experience without the hassle.