Tbilisi: Old&New City Guided Tour w/ 13 Tastings & Cable car

Exploring Tbilisi through this guided tour offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and cuisine. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to experience Georgia’s capital in a half-day adventure that’s both rich in flavor and visual charm.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the comprehensive tasting lineup includes 13 different food and drink samples, promising an authentic taste of Georgian culinary traditions. Second, the sightseeing stops at iconic landmarks like the Bridge of Peace and Narikala Fortress deliver stunning views and photo opportunities. Third, the local guides—notably Georgi—are praised for their knowledge, making every stop informative and engaging.

A potential consideration is the amount of walking involved—roughly 2 to 3 miles—so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the tour operates rain or shine, so weather-appropriate clothing is advised. This tour is ideal for those who love food, want a balanced mix of sightseeing and tastings, and prefer intimate group sizes that foster a more personalized experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie, history buff, or just want a fun way to experience Tbilisi’s vibrant neighborhoods, this tour promises a memorable introduction. Now, let’s break down what you can expect along this immersive journey.

Good To Know

• Authentic Georgian Cuisine: Indulge in 13 tastings, from savory khinkali to local wines and spirits.
• Historical and Scenic Highlights: Visit landmarks like the Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, and Narikala Fortress with superb views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides such as Georgi make the experience lively and informative.
• Flexible Options: Available as private or small group tours, with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Cultural Insights: Discover Georgia’s traditional food, wine-making, and local markets, enriching your understanding of the country’s heritage.
• Good Value: A mix of sightseeing, tastings, and transportation at a reasonable price point.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Tbilisi’s Old & New with a Culinary Twist

This tour is designed to introduce you to Tbilisi’s contrasting neighborhoods—the historic old town and more contemporary, alternative areas. It’s a great way to understand how the city’s past and present coexist, all while satisfying your taste buds. The experience lasts roughly 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and group size, so it’s perfect for a half-day adventure.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Transportation: The tour begins with hotel pickup, easing the logistics and allowing you to relax from the start. The guide, often Georgi, quickly sets a friendly tone, sharing snippets about Tbilisi’s evolving landscape.

Dry Bridge Market & Arts & Crafts: Your first stop is at the Dry Bridge Market. Here, you’ll see a jumble of arts, crafts, vintage goods, and street art. It’s a photo-friendly spot with vendors selling everything from antique trinkets to handmade souvenirs. This market is also a great place to get a sense of the local artistic spirit, which reviewers like Marianna describe as “very interesting and engaging.”

Sampling Georgian Street Food: As you stroll through the city, you’ll taste local dumplings (“Khinkali”) with various fillings—beef, mushroom, potato-cheese, and plain potato. One reviewer, Andrea, highlighted how these are a must-try, and they truly embody Georgian comfort food at its best.

Market Visits & Sweets: Expect to wander into local markets offering spices, fresh fruits, and traditional sweets like churchkhela, which Marianna describes as “delicious and a good introduction to Georgian confectionery.” You’ll also sample local sauces like Tkemali and Ajika, which add a spicy, tangy kick to any dish.

Scenic Stops & Landmark Visits: The tour takes you past several scenic photo stops, including the Bridge of Peace—a modern glass bridge offering stunning views of the city—and Rike Park. These areas provide perfect opportunities for memorable photos and a breather from walking.

Wine & Spirits Tasting: Georgia’s wine culture is world-renowned, and you’ll have the chance to sample white, red, and Qvevri wines—an ancient method of fermentation—at a renowned wine bar. The inclusion of limited-edition wines and spirits like Chacha and Muscat is a highlight for many, as described by a traveler who called the wine tasting “first-class” and “delicious.”

Cultural Landmarks & Panoramic Views: Other stops like Kartlis Deda, the iconic statue of the “Mother of Georgia,” offer sweeping panoramas of the city. These stops are often accompanied by insightful commentary from guides, making history accessible and interesting.

Ending with Meidan Bazaar & Optional Breaks: The tour wraps up at the lively Meidan Bazaar, a hub for arts, crafts, and local spirits. Here, you might also indulge in a break for more tastings or a quick stroll before returning to your hotel.

What’s Unique About This Tour?

Beyond the attractions and tastings, the local guides like Georgi bring an extra layer of authenticity, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. Feedback from guests highlights how knowledgeable and personable Georgi was, making the experience both fun and educational.

The wine tasting component is particularly well-reviewed, with many describing the selection as “amazing” and “a highlight of the tour.” Georgia’s winemaking traditions are deeply rooted, and sampling limited-edition wines provides a rare chance to understand this heritage firsthand.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration & Group Size: Lasting between 3 and 5 hours, the tour is flexible enough for most travelers. Small group sizes or private options ensure personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciated.

Cost & Value: While the price includes 13 tastings, hotel pickup/drop-off, and guided commentary, the real value lies in the depth of experience. The inclusion of cable car tickets and high-quality tastings makes it a comprehensive package for those wanting a full sensory immersion in Tbilisi.

Walking & Comfort: Expect about 2 to 3 miles of walking, often over uneven surfaces or cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, especially as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Accessibility: Children under 12 are only allowed on private tours, and those under 4 need prior notice. This makes the tour best suited for travelers with a moderate level of mobility.

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Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Guests

Andrea described the guide as “fantastic,” emphasizing the personal touch that made the tour memorable. Marianna praised the “interesting and engaging” experience, especially appreciating the guide’s knowledge. Michael, a seasoned traveler, called it “the most informative, delicious, and enjoyable tour” he’d had in a long while, particularly praising Georgi’s hospitality and professionalism.

What’s clear from these reviews is that the guided storytelling, diverse tastings, and scenic stops combine to create a well-rounded, engaging day in Tbilisi.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for food lovers eager to try authentic Georgian dishes and drinks. It also suits those interested in sightseeing—covering major landmarks and scenic spots—without the hassle of planning logistics. If you prefer small, intimate groups with a knowledgeable guide, this is an excellent choice.

Travelers who want a cultural deep dive with a culinary focus will find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for people with moderate mobility, though comfort in walking is important. Families with older children may enjoy the experience, especially if they’re interested in food and history.

For anyone short on time but eager to get a comprehensive taste of Tbilisi, this tour offers a balanced, engaging, and delicious introduction.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided tour of Tbilisi combines sightseeing, authentic Georgian cuisine, and cultural insights into a well-organized package. The inclusion of 13 tastings—ranging from savory khinkali to local wines and spirits—ensures you’ll leave with a real appreciation of Georgia’s culinary heritage. Guided by personable and knowledgeable locals like Georgi, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and traditions without feeling rushed.

The scenic stops, especially around the Bridge of Peace and Rike Park, complement the culinary highlights, making the experience visually rewarding as well. For travelers who love discovering new flavors, enjoy small group settings, and want a hassle-free way to explore Tbilisi’s most iconic sites, this tour hits the mark.

While the walk might be a consideration for some, the overall value—combining food, culture, and beautiful views—makes it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re visiting Georgia for the first time or looking to deepen your appreciation of its food scene, this tour offers an authentic, tasty, and memorable way to experience Tbilisi.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the pace and group size.

What’s included in the price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, tickets for the cable car, and 13 food and beverage tastings.

Are there any dietary restrictions?
The tour includes a variety of tastings; if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to inform the provider in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 are only permitted on private tours, and children under 4 need prior notice. Expect about 2 to 3 miles of walking.

What kind of wines are sampled?
You’ll taste white, red, and Qvevri wines, along with limited-edition Georgian spirits like Chacha and Muscat.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking and operates rain or shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This guided tour of Tbilisi promises a flavorful, scenic, and insightful journey into Georgia’s lively capital. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, history lover, or simply curious about Georgian culture, it offers a well-rounded experience you won’t forget.

You can check if your dates are available here: