Tbilisi: City Tour by Retro Car and Boat Cruise

Explore Tbilisi in just 1.5 hours through a charming combination of a retro-style minibus tour and a boat cruise along the Mtkvari River. This guided experience offers a lively look at the city’s historic streets, vibrant avenues, and scenic waterways, all while allowing you to relax with a glass of wine or tea on board.

Starting at 3 Jan Shardeni Street, the tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Tbilisi in a short time without sacrificing comfort or depth. The bus tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, followed by a 30-minute boat cruise that presents a fresh perspective of the city from the water. Conducted in English and Russian, this activity is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. It’s a flexible option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours total, combining bus and boat
• Start point is 3 Jan Shardeni Street, near Meidan Bazar and Sioni Cathedral
• Tour involves walking and sailing, so comfortable clothing is recommended
• Includes a scenic boat cruise with a drink of wine or tea
• Guides explain the city’s key sights in English and Russian
• Suitable for all ages and wheelchair accessible

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Tbilisi’s Historic Streets and Meidan Square

This tour begins on Shardeni Street, a lively area close to Meidan Bazar and Sioni Cathedral, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and historic significance. The retro minibus takes you through Old Tbilisi, where you’ll see narrow, cobblestone streets and traditional architecture.

The guide highlights Meidan Square, the city’s ancient marketplace, which has long been a hub of trade and social activity. Visiting Kote Afkhazi Street reveals a historic center of craftsmanship and workshops. This part of the tour offers a vivid picture of Tbilisi’s past, complemented by the lively surroundings of the old town.

Exploring the Main Avenues: Shota Rustaveli and David Aghmashenebeli

After wandering through Old Tbilisi, the minibus skirts Shota Rustaveli Avenue and David Aghmashenebeli Avenue. These broad streets are lined with grand buildings, shops, cafes, and theaters, showcasing Tbilisi’s modern vibrancy.

Seeing these main arteries from the bus provides a good sense of the city’s layout and bustling urban life. The guide shares insights into the significance of these avenues, emphasizing their role in the city’s cultural and commercial activities.

Scenic Cruise on the Mtkvari River

The highlight of the tour is the 30-minute boat cruise along the Mtkvari River, which bisects Tbilisi. You’ll cruise past iconic landmarks and get a unique water-level view of the city. During the cruise, you can enjoy a glass of wine or tea, making the experience both relaxing and social.

This river journey offers a different perspective of Tbilisi’s skyline, including views of bridges, historic buildings, and the surrounding hills. The boat cruise allows a peaceful break from the busy streets and adds a scenic touch to this quick tour.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from the office located at Shardeni Street 3, near Meidan Bazar. The precise coordinates are 41.690582275390625, 44.80806350708008. The meeting point in the heart of the old town makes it easy to find and start the experience.

Accessibility is considered, as the tour is suitable for wheelchair users. The group size is manageable, and the live guides speak English and Russian, enhancing the overall experience. The tour’s duration of 1.5 hours makes it an ideal short activity, fitting well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

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Logistics: Pacing and Comfort

The 45-minute bus tour allows enough time to absorb the sights without feeling rushed. The boat cruise provides a relaxing interlude with scenic views and a drink. Since the tour involves some walking and sailing, comfortable clothing is recommended, especially if the weather is warm.

The activity’s flexible cancellation policy — free cancellation up to 24 hours before — makes it easy to plan without worry. You can reserve your spot today and pay later, which offers added convenience and flexibility.

What Sets This Tour Apart in Tbilisi

What makes this combo tour distinct is the way it marries land-based exploration with water views. The retro minibus adds a nostalgic, charming touch, while the river cruise offers a peaceful, scenic experience not always included in city tours.

On top of that, the inclusion of wine or tea on the boat creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding while enjoying the landscape. The tour’s short duration makes it accessible for those with limited time and ensures you see key highlights efficiently.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience Most

This tour appeals to first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Tbilisi’s main sights. It’s also ideal for families or small groups looking for a fun, relaxed activity that combines history, scenery, and light refreshment. The wheelchair accessibility broadens its appeal to all travelers, and the multilingual guides ensure clear explanations regardless of language preference.

Given its affordable price, short duration, and informative nature, it’s a practical choice for those seeking an introduction to the city without a heavy time commitment.

Final Thoughts on the Tbilisi City Tour by Retro Car and Boat Cruise

This 1.5-hour combined tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tbilisi’s historic and modern sides. The retro-style minibus brings a nostalgic feel, while the river cruise adds a serene scenic element. The inclusion of a drink makes the experience more engaging and comfortable.

While it’s a brief excursion, it covers important areas like Old Tbilisi, Meidan Square, and the main avenues. The easy meeting logistics and flexible booking options make it a hassle-free choice for visitors wanting a taste of the city.

This tour provides a balanced, charming introduction to Tbilisi’s character, history, and atmosphere — perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including both the bus ride and the boat cruise.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 3 Jan Shardeni Street, in the office of Boss Tours & Tickets, near Meidan Bazar and Sioni Cathedral.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended since the tour involves walking and sailing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby