Private Walking Tour in Tbilisi and Mtskheta Old Town

Explore Tbilisi’s Old Town and Mtskheta’s Ancient Capital for $50

This private walking tour offers an engaging journey through Tbilisi and Mtskheta, two of Georgia’s most significant historical sites, all for $50 per person. The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a well-paced experience that covers Tbilisi’s old city highlights, transfer to Mtskheta’s ancient sites, and includes stunning river views. The tour is led by Giorgi, an experienced guide with a passion for history, and features pickup options and a mobile ticket for convenience.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Georgia’s earliest religious and cultural landmarks, including the oldest buildings in Tbilisi and Mtskheta’s UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. The tour also includes an aerial tramway ride offering panoramic views and a visit to the Jvari Monastery, where visitors witness the confluence of two rivers. While the tour involves walking through uneven historic sites, the pace is manageable, and the inclusion of free admission to most attractions keeps it good value.

This tour suits those with an interest in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, especially travelers eager to explore Georgia’s religious sites and medieval architecture. However, it’s best for guests comfortable with walking and some outdoor exploration. The $50 price and most reviews rating it 5 out of 5 reflect a strong value and well-organized experience.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with an expert historian leading the way
• Visit Tbilisi’s oldest buildings, including Anchiskhati Basilica and Sioni Cathedral
• Transfer from Tbilisi to Mtskheta included, with stops at Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
• Includes a scenic cable car ride over Tbilisi’s Old Town
• Stunning views where the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet and wine ice cream in Mtskheta
• Affordable price of $50 per person, with free admission to most sites

Discovering Tbilisi’s Old Town and Its Most Iconic Sites

The tour begins in Anchiskhati Basilica, which is recognized as the oldest building in Tbilisi. This 10-minute stop offers a glimpse into early Christian architecture with no admission fee. Next, the group visits Sioni Cathedral, surrounded by diverse religious buildings, including a Muslim mosque, Armenian church, Jewish synagogue, and Catholic church, all within walking distance.

The walk through Jan Shardeni Street reveals the lively mix of old and new lifestyles in Tbilisi, with its charming cafes and shops. This 15-minute stop adds a vibrant local flavor to the tour. The journey continues to Metekhi Cathedral, perched on the river’s edge, with a statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali in the yard, highlighting Georgia’s legendary founding figure.

Scenic Cable Car Ride and Narikala Fortress Exploration

A highlight is the Tbilisi Cable Car ride, included in the tour, which offers sweeping views of the Old Town from above. The 15-minute ride provides excellent photo opportunities of Tbilisi’s rooftops and the river valleys.

Following the cable car, visitors explore Narikala Fortress, a historic site with walls dating back to the 5th century. The 40-minute visit allows time to admire the fortress’s ancient architecture and panoramic vistas of the city and rivers. This walking and sightseeing segment is free of charge, adding to the tour’s value.

From Tbilisi to Mtskheta: Journey to Georgia’s Religious Heartland

The tour then transfers to Mtskheta, Georgia’s first capital and often called the “Second Jerusalem” due to its religious significance. Here, the focus shifts to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

At Jvari Church, visitors observe 14th-century architecture and enjoy spectacular views of the rivers’ confluence. This stop, lasting about an hour, offers the chance for photography and soaking in the scenic landscape where Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet.

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Mtskheta’s Historic Charm

The tour concludes with a visit to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Georgia’s most ancient capital and a key religious symbol. The cathedral’s hilltop location provides beautiful vistas over Mtskheta, emphasizing its historical grandeur.

A delightful inclusion is wine ice cream in Mtskheta, a local treat that adds a sweet ending to the sightseeing experience. The one-hour visit to Svetitskhoveli ensures ample time to appreciate medieval architecture, religious artifacts, and the serene atmosphere of the ancient city.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour starts with a pickup option, making it convenient for visitors arriving in Tbilisi. It is designed as a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a personalized and flexible pace. Most stops are free to enter, and the admission tickets for attractions are included in the itinerary.

The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with the walking pace suitable for most guests, though some locations involve uneven surfaces and outdoor walking. The most booked tour slot is about 19 days in advance, indicating its popularity among visitors.

Strengths and Considerations

The tour’s main strength is the combination of historical depth, scenic views, and cultural sites in both Tbilisi and Mtskheta. The inclusion of an aerial tramway and wine ice cream adds memorable touches. The expert guide helps illuminate the stories behind each site, making the experience both educational and engaging.

A potential consideration is the walking distance and outdoor exposure, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues or very young children. The 4-5 hour duration balances sightseeing with comfort but requires some stamina.

Final Thoughts on the Tbilisi and Mtskheta Private Walk

This $50 private tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Georgia’s early Christian sites and historic landmarks in Tbilisi and Mtskheta. It combines religious history, spectacular views, and local treats, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. The personalized nature and expert narration enhance the experience, and the included scenic cable car ride offers a special perspective on the city.

The tour offers great value for its price, especially considering the customized private format and quality content. It’s a solid choice for those wanting an in-depth introduction to Georgia’s cultural and religious heritage, especially within a manageable half-day schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but some walking and outdoor exposure may be challenging for very young children or individuals with limited mobility.

Are the entrance fees included?
Most attractions have free admission, and the admission tickets are included in the tour, such as Narikala Fortress and Jvari Monastery.

What should I wear for this walking tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the outdoor and sometimes uneven terrain. Weather-appropriate clothing is advisable based on the season.

Can I customize the tour timing?
Since this is a private experience, there is flexibility to discuss timing preferences with the guide Giorgi beforehand.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Transportation from Tbilisi to Mtskheta is included in the tour, with a transfer arranged as part of the experience.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of historical sites, scenic views, and local treats like wine ice cream, along with an expert guide, makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s rich heritage.

How long in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 19 days in advance, but early reservations are recommended to secure preferred times.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide is an experienced historian, likely fluent in English, to provide detailed explanations during the tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case plans change.