Tbilisi old town (Sololaki) 4 hours private walking tour

Explore the charming Old Town Sololaki in Tbilisi, Georgia, through a private 4-hour walking tour that offers a detailed look at the city’s most significant sights and secret spots. With a focus on history, architecture, and stunning views, this tour is carefully designed for visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Tbilisi’s unique character. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and includes a bottle of water, making it a comfortable and informative experience.

Priced with flexibility in mind—you can reserve now and pay later—this private tour suits travelers who want a personalized and flexible way to explore the city’s core. The duration is flexible, ranging from 4 to 8 hours, and the tour starts at a central location, with no hotel pickup included. The focus is on seeing main sights, discovering hidden corners, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.

Key Points

• Private 4-hour tour exploring Tbilisi’s Old Town Sololaki and Abanotubani districts
• Includes visits to key landmarks like Sioni Cathedral, Metekhi Church, and the Mother of Georgia
• Climb the Narikala fortress for panoramic city views
• Guided walks through back streets reveal secret viewpoints and colorful balconies
• Highlights historic architecture, ancient churches, and lively streets around the Rezo Gabriadze Theater and sulfur baths
• Flexible timing and language options available, with a friendly, knowledgeable guide

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Liberty Square Fountain for a Central Introduction

The tour begins at the fountains of Liberty Square, right in the heart of Tbilisi. From this central point, the guide offers a quick overview of the city’s layout before heading into the old town. This spot sets the tone, emphasizing the city’s blend of history and modern life. The walk along the city’s defensive wall gives a sense of how Tbilisi was built and why it remains so unique.

As the group moves from Liberty Square, the guide shares insights about Tbilisi’s architecture and its development, providing context for what you’ll see in the streets ahead. The walk is paced comfortably, suitable for most travelers, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or ask questions.

Exploring Shavteli Street and the Gabriadze Clock Tower

Next, the tour takes you along Shavteli Street, a lively road lined with traditional houses and shops. Here, the Gabriadze Theatre’s clock tower captures attention with its whimsical design. The guide explains the significance of this charming landmark, famous for its polyphonic chants and theatrical performances.

This section of the walk offers a glimpse of Tbilisi’s artistic spirit and its vibrant street life. The guide points out architecture from the period of the Russian Empire, helping visitors understand the city’s historical layers and architectural diversity.

Abanotubani District and the Sulfur Baths

Moving into the Abanotubani district, the scent of sulfur baths fills the air. This district, renowned for its natural thermal springs, is a highlight for many visitors. The guide introduces the history of the sulfur baths and their importance to Tbilisi’s wellness culture.

A short walk takes visitors into the Leghvtakhevi canyon, where a picturesque waterfall awaits. This natural feature offers a moment of tranquility amid the historic streets. Visitors can enjoy the scent of the baths and the lush surroundings, making it a favorite stop for its balance of nature and history.

Visiting Sioni Cathedral and Vakhtang Gorgasali Square

The tour includes a visit to Sioni Cathedral, an important religious site and a former seat of the Georgian Patriarchate. Its stone façade and interior are impressive, and the guide explains its religious significance.

At Vakhtang Gorgasali Square, the group stops briefly at Metekhi Bridge for photos of the district and the Queen’s Palace. This spot offers a fantastic view of the city and its river. The guide shares stories about Vakhtang Gorgasali, a legendary founder of Tbilisi.

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Crossroads at Meidan Bazaar and the Mother of Georgia

Crossing through the Meidan bazaar, travelers experience a lively market scene with smells of local produce and spices. The guide discusses Georgian gastronomy and viticulture, giving context to the city’s food culture.

A memorable sight is the Mother of Georgia statue, also known as Kartlis Deda. Standing tall atop the hill, she gazes over the city, symbolizing Georgia’s resilience and hospitality. From this vantage point, the panoramic views of Tbilisi are breathtaking.

Climbing Narikala Fortress for Citywide Views

One of the tour’s highlights is the climb to Narikala Fortress. The ascent involves 50 steps, with no elevator access, but the effort rewards visitors with spectacular views of the city and the river below.

Within the fortress, the guide explains its historical importance, and visitors can explore the ancient walls and towers. The panoramic vista from the top is often praised as one of the best perspectives on Tbilisi’s eclectic skyline.

Descending through Colorful Balconies and Georgian Houses

After the fortress, the tour descends through streets lined with colorful balconies and traditional Georgian houses. These streets showcase the city’s distinctive architecture and vibrant neighborhood life. The guide points out details like ornate facades and local craftsmanship.

This walk through narrow alleyways allows a more intimate experience of local life and hidden corners often missed by larger groups. Visitors appreciate the chance to see less touristy spots and discover the city’s authentic charm.

Visiting Gudiashvili Square and Russian Empire Mansions

The final part of the tour includes a stroll through Gudiashvili Square, surrounded by old mansions from the Russian Imperial era. These historic buildings provide a glimpse into Tbilisi’s aristocratic past.

The tour wraps up here, with the guide sharing insights into the architecture and history of the area. From this point, travelers can explore further or return to their accommodation, carrying a deeper understanding of Tbilisi’s layered history.

Practical Details: Logistics, Group Size, and Accessibility

This is a private walking tour, ensuring personalized attention from the guide. The meeting point varies depending on the selected option, but it always begins centrally. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, with no included hotel pickup or drop-off.

Since the tour involves climbing steps—notably at Narikala Fortress—it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or wheelchair users.

The guide speaks French, English, and Russian, and water is provided for comfort. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing and water.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others in Tbilisi

What sets this private tour apart is its focus on main landmarks combined with hidden gems, thanks to the guide’s local knowledge. The expert guide ensures rich commentary, making complex history accessible and engaging.

The flexible duration allows travelers to choose a shorter or more extensive experience, depending on their schedule. The inclusion of stunning viewpoints like Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia, along with exploring less touristy streets, offers a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi’s character.

Final Thoughts on the Sololaki Old Town Private Tour

This 4-hour private walking tour provides an immersive and personal way to discover Tbilisi’s Old Town and surrounding districts. Its combination of main sights, secret viewpoints, and local ambiance makes it ideal for first-time visitors who want to understand Georgia’s capital beyond its surface.

The knowledgeable guides, especially the praise for their storytelling and local insights, ensure a memorable experience. The tour suits those interested in architecture, history, and panoramic views, and appreciates a flexible, private format.

While it involves some climbing and narrow streets, the stunning vistas and authentic neighborhoods outweigh these considerations for most visitors. This tour is recommended for travelers looking for a comprehensive, personalized introduction to Tbilisi’s soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to physical activity and walking involved, especially the climb to Narikala Fortress.

What should I bring?
Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring weather-appropriate clothing, and carry water.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. The meeting point is arranged depending on the option booked.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour available in different languages?
Yes, the guide speaks French, English, and Russian, offering flexible language options for different travelers.

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