Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast with Culinary Backstreets

Discover Tbilisi’s Historic Silk Road Sites with Culinary Flavors

The Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast with Culinary Backstreets offers an engaging 7-hour exploration of Georgia’s capital city, blending cultural sightseeing with authentic culinary experiences. Priced at $125.00 per person, this tour is praised for its depth of history and delicious food, making it an excellent choice for those eager to connect with Tbilisi’s past and taste its flavors firsthand. The tour departs from Waterfall Square at 10:00 am and ends near Galaktion Tabidze Street, with a maximum group size of just 7 travelers for a more intimate experience.

This tour is highly recommended, with a 5.0 rating from 56 reviews and 98% of participants suggesting it to others. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, culture, and gastronomy—though it involves some walking, the stops are well-paced, and food is plentiful.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 7 hours exploring Tbilisi’s Old Town and beyond
• Price: $125 per person, including multiple food tastings and site visits
• Highlights: Visit historic sites like Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica, plus a wine tasting at a local wine bar
• Food: Sample Georgian dishes such as shkmeruli and khinkali, with visits to artisanal shops for treats and cheese
• Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insights into both history and cuisine
• Group Size: Small group experience with up to 7 travelers

Starting in Tbilisi’s Old Town and Underground Azeri Tea House

The tour kicks off in Tbilisi’s atmospheric Old Town, where an underground Azeri tea house awaits. This early stop offers a unique glimpse into regional tea traditions without an entrance fee, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The narrow streets and historic ambiance immediately immerse visitors in the city’s charm.

This introduction provides a foundation for understanding local customs, before moving on to more religious and cultural landmarks, making the experience accessible and engaging from the start.

Visiting Sioni Cathedral and Artisanal Monastic Treats

Next, the tour visits the Sioni Cathedral, one of Tbilisi’s most prominent Orthodox sites. Here, participants explore a church-run shop that sells products directly from Orthodox monasteries, emphasizing Georgia’s artisanal craftsmanship. Sampling the stunning treats offered at this shop gives a taste of Georgia’s long-standing religious and artisanal traditions.

This stop lasts for 1 hour and is free to enter, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the treats and absorb the spiritual atmosphere of this historic cathedral.

Wine Tasting in Back Streets near Freedom Square

A highlight of the tour is the visit to a small, unusual wine bar near Freedom Square. Georgia’s reputation as one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions shines through during this tasting experience. The guide introduces guests to finest small-scale wine producers, showcasing a variety of local wines that are hard to find elsewhere.

Spending an hour here, visitors gain insights into Georgian wine culture, often described as a perfect pairing for the city’s culinary scene. It’s a relaxed, informative stop that emphasizes Georgia’s wine-making heritage.

Exploring the Oldest Church: Anchiskhati Basilica

The Anchiskhati Basilica is another key site, known as the oldest church in Tbilisi. This architectural treasure offers a glimpse into Georgia’s early Christian history. The 45-minute visit highlights the basilica’s historical significance and serenity.

While free to visit, the basilica’s architecture and peaceful environment make it a meaningful stop, especially for those interested in Georgia’s religious history.

Lunch Break with Georgian Chicken: Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

Near the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, the tour pauses for a sizzling dish of shkmeruli, a iconic Georgian chicken dish served in a garlic and cream sauce. This stop combines cultural entertainment with hearty local flavors, making it a true taste of Georgian hospitality.

Set aside 45 minutes for this tasting, which is often described as a highlight. The theater nearby adds a touch of local artistry, even if just viewed from the outside.

Sampling Khinkali near the Parliament Building

The tour continues near the Parliament of Georgia, where a khinkali master demonstrates how to make and offers freshly-made dumplings. Participants get to sample hot, flavorful khinkali, a staple of Georgian cuisine. The 1-hour stop provides both a culinary and culture, showcasing a dish beloved across Georgia.

This hands-on experience emphasizes the importance of fresh, artisanal food in Georgian dining traditions.

Visiting Metekhi Cathedral and Artisanal Cheese Tasting

The Metekhi Cathedral offers stunning views of the city and adds to the tour’s religious sites. After passing by this historic cathedral, the group visits a local artisanal cheese shop for a tasting. The 30-minute stop introduces visitors to Georgia’s cheese-making craft, often paired with local wines and bread.

This stop broadens the food experience, emphasizing how Georgia’s culinary culture extends into its cheese and dairy products.

Return to the Starting Point with Cultural Insights

The tour concludes near Galaktion Tabidze Street, with a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and tastings. Throughout the journey, guides share stories that connect Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and food traditions in an accessible and engaging way.

This final section ties together the cultural and culinary themes, leaving a rounded understanding of the city’s Silk Road heritage.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour starts at Waterfall Square and is designed for most travelers, with most activities being accessible and free of additional charges. The modest group size of up to 7 people ensures personal attention, and most reviews highlight the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly approach.

Participants should come hungry, as the day involves multiple food stops, and be prepared for some walking through historic streets. The tour is suitable for those interested in history, food, and local culture, with an emphasis on authentic experiences rather than touristy attractions.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Tbilisi

The combination of cultural site visits with authentic Georgian cuisine distinguishes this tour from standard sightseeing routes. Visiting historic churches, a parliament, and a famous theater all while sampling local wines, cheeses, and dishes creates a well-rounded experience.

What truly sets this apart is the expert guide, who is praised for her knowledge of both history and food. The small group size and carefully curated stops foster a personalized, immersive adventure that keeps participants engaged and satisfied.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits history buffs, food lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike. The focus on local cuisine and historic sites makes it ideal for those wanting a deeper understanding of Tbilisi beyond typical tours.

It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic local flavors, and stories behind the landmarks. Given the generous amount of food and the pace, it’s best for those comfortable walking and eager to explore at a relaxed but immersive rhythm.

Final Thoughts on the Silk Road Feast Tour

With a 5-star rating backed by enthusiastic reviews, this tour offers a genuine taste of Tbilisi’s cultural and culinary riches. The $125 price tag provides access to a full day of history, local stories, and tasty discoveries, guided by experts who bring Georgia’s past and present alive.

While the tour involves several stops and a fair amount of walking, the small group size ensures a personal and engaging experience. It’s a highly recommended option for those seeking a meaningful way to experience Tbilisi’s unique blend of history and gastronomic tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $125?
The tour includes site visits, tastings of Georgian dishes, wines, cheeses, and treats at various stops, as well as the guiding service.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but participants should be comfortable walking through historic streets and standing for periods during tastings.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins at Waterfall Square and ends near Galaktion Tabidze Street in Tbilisi.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed, and the tour is designed for most ages.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing ample time to enjoy food and explore each site.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The available information does not specify accessibility details; expect some walking on uneven streets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

What makes this tour different from other Tbilisi tours?
It combines historic site visits with multiple authentic food tastings, led by a knowledgeable guide in a small group setting for a personalized experience.