Tbilisi: Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour

Travelers looking to experience the magic of a Georgian winter will find this Tbilisi Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Tour a perfect way to combine festive cheer with authentic local culture. While it’s a short three-hour walk, it packs in enough sights, tastes, and traditions to make it feel like a holiday feast for the senses. Whether you’re visiting during the New Year season or just eager to see Tbilisi lit up in its holiday best, this guided tour promises a lively, flavorful, and visually stunning experience.

What we love about this tour is its ability to showcase Tbilisi’s vibrant Christmas spirit while highlighting lesser-known corners of the city. We appreciate the way it balances iconic sights like Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue with more intimate spaces like the food market and hidden alleyways. Plus, sampling authentic Georgian sweets and wines adds a delicious layer few other tours can offer. The only thing to consider is that it’s a walking tour — so a reasonable level of mobility is needed, especially in winter weather.

This experience suits those who enjoy cultural exploration paired with festive atmosphere—families, couples, solo travelers, and even those already familiar with Tbilisi’s main attractions. If you crave a taste of local tradition during the holiday season, it’s a well-rounded, fun way to see the city’s more intimate, sparkling side.

Good To Know

Authentic Georgian Festive Vibe: Experience Tbilisi’s Christmas markets and holiday lights, blending tradition with celebration.
Cultural and Historic Sights: From Freedom Square to Rustaveli Avenue, discover the city’s most iconic and hidden spots with a knowledgeable guide.
Local Flavors and Crafts: Sample sweets, sip Georgian wine, and browse handmade crafts perfect for gift-giving.
Convenient & Compact: A 3-hour walk covering approximately 3.5 km, ideal for a quick yet rich holiday experience.
Family-Friendly & Small Groups: Suitable for all ages, with a focus on personalized attention and authentic moments.
Weather Considerations: Be prepared for cold weather, rain, or snow — wear comfortable, warm clothing and shoes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Freedom Square at Burberry Store

The tour kicks off at the well-known Freedom Square, officially the heart of Tbilisi’s festive celebrations. Standing here, you’re immediately immersed in holiday cheer — the square is decorated with dazzling lights, and the St George’s Pillar dressed for the season adds a centerpiece to the scene. Our guide, whose friendly demeanor and local insights make all the difference, will gather the group here, setting a lively tone for the walk ahead.

First Stop: Christmas Market at Orbeliani Plaza

From Freedom Square, we wander into Orbeliani Plaza, the main Christmas market of Tbilisi. This area is a hive of activity, with stalls brimming with handmade crafts, festive ornaments, and local delicacies. The market is beautifully illuminated in the evening, making it feel like stepping into a winter fairy tale. You’ll find vendors selling hot Georgian wine, a perfect warm-up for the chilly weather, along with an array of sweets and snacks that smell of cinnamon and baked fruit.

One reviewer notes, “Noel pazar çok güzeldi güzel gezdik,” which translates to “The Christmas market was very beautiful, we enjoyed the walk.” The lively atmosphere, combined with the chance to shop for unique gifts, makes this stop particularly memorable. Expect friendly vendors eager to introduce you to Georgia’s warm hospitality and craftmanship.

Second Stop: Georgia’s Largest Food Mall, Bazari Orbeliani

Next, we head to Bazari Orbeliani, Georgia’s most extensive food market. Once a Soviet bazaar, it’s now a lively hub of Georgian culinary culture. Here, you can browse through an astonishing selection of local wines, spices, and snacks, all while soaking in the vibrant, bustling ambiance.

Sampling is encouraged, and we found that trying traditional sweets and savory treats adds a delicious layer to the tour. The market’s lively energy makes it a superb place for food lovers. One reviewer remarked that the experience was “delicious,” highlighting the quality and variety of the local cuisine.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Third Stop: Rustaveli Avenue and the City’s Festive Heart

Walking along Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main artery, you’ll be dazzled by the holiday lights and decorations. During the tour, the large New Year’s tree near the parliament building becomes a focal point for photos and festive selfies. This stretch features a mix of historic buildings and modern shops, all illuminated in a way that showcases Tbilisi’s seasonal charm.

The guide may point out events or performances happening during the holiday season — if you’re lucky, you might even bump into Georgia’s Santa Claus, who’s known to bring good cheer and smiles. One reviewer appreciated the breathtaking evening lights, noting how they transformed the city into a winter wonderland.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Hidden Corners of Tbilisi

As night deepens, the tour veers into less touristy areas, revealing Tbilisi’s hidden gems. These alleyways, small squares, and local neighborhoods are often overlooked but are bursting with character and authentic charm. For travelers who have already explored the Old Town, this part of the tour offers a fresh perspective, especially during the holiday season when the city’s atmosphere is especially warm and inviting.

Ending Point: Conveniently Located in the Heart of the City

The walk concludes back near the starting point, wrapping up after roughly 3.5 km of leisurely strolling. The guide is available to help with photos and answer any questions, ensuring you leave with both memories and mementos of your Georgian holiday experience.

What’s Included & What to Know

This tour offers a walking experience with a professional guide, available in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. It includes samples of Georgian sweets and a helping hand with photos, making it perfect for capturing holiday moments.

It’s important to note that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point. The tour generally lasts about three hours with a flexible start time, so planning accordingly is key. Comfortable, warm shoes are a must, given the winter weather and walking distance.

While the tour is suitable for most, it’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or those who dislike walking or cold weather. Weather-dependent, you might find snow or rain, so packing a jacket and waterproof shoes is advisable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to typical city sightseeing, this experience combines cultural insights, festive sights, and local flavors all in one compact walk. The inclusion of samples, a friendly guide, and visits to both well-known and hidden locations make it feel like a thoughtful, well-rounded holiday experience.

The small group size (or private options) ensures you get personalized attention, while the lively, cheerful atmosphere helps you truly feel the spirit of Georgian Christmas. With the tour covering key landmarks and lesser-known spots, you’ll leave with a broader understanding of Tbilisi’s holiday traditions and local life.

For budget-conscious travelers, the combination of sightseeing, tastings, and authentic atmosphere offers excellent value. Plus, the flexibility of a “reserve now, pay later” policy means you can secure your spot without immediate commitment.

Final Thoughts

If you want a fun, authentic way to soak up Tbilisi’s holiday spirit, this Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Tour is a wonderful choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy walking, sampling local food and wine, and discovering off-the-beaten-path corners of a city bathed in festive lights.

The tour strikes a lovely balance between iconic sights and intimate moments, giving you a true taste of Georgian culture during its most joyful season. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a lively, flavorful experience that will leave you feeling warm and inspired by Tbilisi’s holiday magic.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children can enjoy this tour, especially since it’s a leisurely walk with plenty of sights and tastes. Just ensure children are comfortable with walking and winter weather.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and some cash for incidental purchases or additional snacks not included.

Is the tour walkable for people with mobility issues?
The terrain isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or those with mobility impairments, as the route involves walking about 3.5 km over uneven surfaces.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions, but the tour is best suited for those able to walk comfortably in cold weather.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour is offered in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. If you speak one of these languages, you’ll have no trouble following along.

What should I expect at the Christmas market?
A lively, decorated area with kiosks selling crafts, festive treats, and warm drinks like Georgian wine. It’s a perfect spot for photos and holiday shopping.

Is the tour available during New Year’s Eve?
Yes, during the holiday season, including New Year’s, the city is especially festive and the tour runs to showcase the celebrations.

Will I get enough time to shop or take photos?
Yes, the itinerary includes dedicated stops for photos and shopping, with help from the guide for capturing your best moments.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. Dress warmly and be prepared for winter weather, which is part of the authentic experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In short, this Tbilisi Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour offers a warm, lively, and authentic celebration of Georgian holiday traditions. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the city’s festive glow, sample local flavors, and see some of its most enchanting sights—both famous and secret.

You can check if your dates are available here: