Tbilisi: Old & New city, Guided tour with 12 Tastings

Tbilisi’s charm lies in its fascinating mix of ancient streets and vibrant modern life. This guided tour offers a smart way to experience both sides of the city, combining cultural insights with a feast of Georgian flavors. Designed for food lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers alike, it promises a three-hour journey filled with delicious tastings and eye-opening sights.

What sets this experience apart are the well-selected food tastings, the knowledgeable guides, and the variety of landmarks visited. You’ll get to sample authentic wines, local sweets, and hearty dumplings, all while exploring iconic spots like sulfur baths and the bustling markets of the Old Town. That said, do keep in mind that the tour involves walking around 2 to 3 miles, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is ideal if you’re keen on uncovering Tbilisi’s soul through its cuisine and history in a friendly, small-group setting. If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s capital—especially with a focus on food and authentic local stories—this experience will serve you well. However, those seeking a very relaxed, seated experience might find the pace a little brisk.

Good To Know

• Authentic Tasting Experience: Sample 12 carefully curated Georgian delights, including wines, sweets, and savory bites.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Georgia’s history, architecture, and traditions from friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visit highlights like sulfur baths, the clock tower, and the flower market.
• Small Group Feel: Enjoy a more personalized experience with guided interactions and customized attention.
• Walking Tour with Impact: Expect around 2-3 miles of gentle walking through lively streets.
• Value for Money: The combination of tastings, sights, and local stories makes this a rich, comprehensive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tbilisi Old & New City Tour

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off, which immediately removes the hassle of organizing transportation. It’s scheduled for about three hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. The guided experience is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers, and smaller groups or private bookings are available—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting.

Exploring Tbilisi’s Landmark Sites

Your journey kicks off in the heart of the city, with stops at notable spots like Cafe Daphna for a photo opportunity, and the State Palace of Ceremonies. These are more than just pretty sights—they’re gateways into Georgia’s political and cultural fabric. Moving on, the Flower Market dazzles with its vibrant colors, while the Dry Bridge Market offers a treasure trove of local crafts, antiques, and fresh produce.

Next, you’ll pass by the whimsical Rezo Gabriadze Theater, which is a beloved cultural landmark, and the iconic Clock Tower—a must-see for its fairy-tale charm. Rike Park provides stunning city views and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the local vibe. The Tbilisi cable car offers a scenic ride that adds a dash of adventure before reaching the lively Meidan Bazaar, where stalls burst with spices, fruits, and handmade crafts.

Gastronomic Highlights: The Heart of the Tour

The tastings are the core of this experience, curated to showcase Georgian culinary traditions. You’ll enjoy four varieties of Khinkali, Georgia’s famous dumplings—beef, mushroom, potato-cheese, and plain potato—each offering a different flavor profile. These are more than just snack-sized; reviewers describe the portions as generous, and some have called the mushroom dumplings a highlight.

In addition, the tour features tastes of local lemonade, Churchkhela (a candle-shaped sweet made from grape must and nuts), Shoti bread, and local wines—both white and red, with a special focus on Qvevri wine, a traditional method of fermentation in clay vessels. The Chacha spirit and Muscat liqueur round out the tasting experience, giving curious drinkers a real taste of Georgian distillation craft.

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The Cultural and Historic Context

Throughout the tour, guides like Irina and others share stories that deepen your understanding of Georgia’s rich heritage. From ancient churches to the sulfur baths, each stop has a story to tell, connecting the sights to Georgia’s traditions of hospitality, art, and spirituality.

Guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer noted how Irina was “lovely and very knowledgeable,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Others mention how guides like George create a lively, engaging atmosphere, balancing historical facts with humorous anecdotes.

Why the Walking Matters

The tour requires walking around 2 to 3 miles, which might be a consideration if mobility is a concern. However, this pace allows you to take in the sights and sounds of Tbilisi’s lively streets, markets, and neighborhoods. The stops are spaced out enough to keep the experience fresh and engaging without feeling rushed.

Pricing and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option available, the price reflects the combination of genuine local tastings, sightseeing, and expert guidance. You get 12 tastings, covering everything from wine to sweets, plus entry to notable sights, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective way to spend a few hours in Tbilisi.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and cable car tickets enhances the value, removing logistical worries and adding scenic moments. For travelers who want a curated, authentic introduction to Georgia’s capital, this tour offers excellent value.

Authentic Experiences and Local Interaction

Reviewers often highlight the guides’ friendliness and their ability to share insights beyond scripted commentary. Many mention how they felt welcomed and learned a lot about Georgia’s daily life, art, and culinary history through conversations with vendors and artisans. This personal touch turns a sightseeing tour into an immersive cultural experience.

Perfect for Foodies and Culture Seekers

Those who appreciate good food and wine will find plenty to love here. The careful selection of tastings, combined with the scenic stops and storytelling, makes for a well-rounded experience. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy a bit of walking and exploring, rather than a seated tour.

Considerations for Travelers

• Walking distance: Prepare for 2-3 miles on foot.
• Weather: Operates in all weather, so dress accordingly.
• Group size: Small groups or private options are available for a more personalized outing.
• Child policy: Under 12s are only permitted on private tours, so families with younger kids should plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to combine sightseeing with tasting authentic Georgian cuisine, this tour will hit the mark. It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy engaging guides, cultural stories, and small-group experiences. It offers a genuine taste of Tbilisi’s flavor and spirit, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad yet intimate introduction.

If your goal is to relax and just sit back, this might feel a bit brisk due to the walking involved. But for those craving an active, flavor-filled exploration, it’s a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, with start times depending on availability.

Are there vegetarian options?
The tour focuses on Georgian dishes like Khinkali and wine, but specific dietary requests should be clarified with the provider beforehand, as substitutions are not detailed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 are only permitted on private tours. The walking distance is about 2-3 miles, so consider their mobility and interest.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, given the walking involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks included?
Yes, tastings of white wine, red wine, Qvevri wine, Chacha, and Muscat are included.

Can I customize the tour?
Private and small-group options are available, allowing some customization based on your preferences.

What makes the wine tasting special?
Georgia’s wine tradition is centuries old, and sampling Qvevri wine offers a taste of ancient fermentation techniques.

Is there enough food to feel full?
The portions of dumplings and the variety of tastings are generally considered generous, enough to satisfy most appetites.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Tbilisi’s Old and New city sections offers a thoroughly enjoyable experience that balances cultural exploration with culinary delight. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s history, architecture, and, of course, its food and wine. With knowledgeable guides, engaging sights, and authentic tastings, it’s a strong choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi.

While it involves walking and some planning, the convenience of hotel pickup, combined with the intimate group size, makes it accessible and personalized. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or just want a fun, insightful way to spend an afternoon, this tour will leave your taste buds and your camera full.

Ultimately, it’s best suited for those who love good stories, delicious bites, and authentic experiences. If you’re eager to explore Georgia’s vibrant culture through its streets, markets, and flavors, this guided tour could become one of your favorite memories from Tbilisi.

You can check if your dates are available here: