Full Day Tbilisi City Tour with Wine Tasting & Cable Car Ride

Exploring Tbilisi in a Day: An In-Depth Look at the Full Day City Tour with Wine & Cable Car

Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, is a city that effortlessly blends history, architecture, and lively street life into an inviting package. This full-day private tour promises to uncover the city’s most iconic sights, offer a taste of Georgian wine and cuisine, and provide stunning panoramic views—all in about nine hours. If you’re a traveler who loves to see the highlights while soaking up local flavor, this tour might just be your perfect introduction to Tbilisi.

One of the things we love about this experience is the convenience it offers: private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an expertly curated itinerary that hits all the major sights. Plus, the inclusion of wine tasting and a traditional Georgian lunch means you won’t leave hungry or thirsty. That said, it’s a fairly packed schedule, so if you prefer slow mornings or spontaneous explorations, some parts might feel a bit rushed.

A potential consideration is the guide quality—while reviews praise some guides highly, others have noted that private tours can vary depending on the guide’s knowledge and approach. It’s worth checking who your guide will be beforehand. This tour suits travelers eager for a rundown, cultural enthusiasts, and those wanting an authentic taste of Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and culinary scene.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers top landmarks, from historic monuments to scenic viewpoints.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about Georgia’s culture and history through engaging commentary.
• Cultural & Culinary Experience: Includes a traditional Georgian lunch and wine tasting.
• Hassle-Free Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicle with pick-up service.
• Stunning Views & Unique Experiences: Cable car rides and panoramic vistas of Tbilisi.
• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention.

A Day Packed with Highlights: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of Tbilisi, blending history, architecture, nature, and local flavors. Starting at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel (or designated meeting point) and set off on what’s essentially a full immersion into the city’s soul. Each stop offers something special, and the carefully planned schedule ensures you get the most out of your day without feeling overwhelmed.

The Chronicles of Georgia and Mtatsminda Park

Your journey begins with the Chronicles of Georgia, a towering monument made of 16 giant pillars. It’s a striking structure, with some pillars reaching 35 meters tall, depicting Georgia’s kings, queens, and heroes, complemented by scenes from the life of Christ. The site also features the grapevine cross of St. Nino and a small chapel, making it both a cultural and spiritual stop. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Tbilisi Sea—a scenic bonus that offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, an imposing structure built between 1995 and 2004. Known as the third-tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedral, it’s a symbol of Georgia’s religious identity, celebrating 1,500 years of autocephaly and the birth of Jesus. While entry is free, the grandeur of the cathedral’s interior and its location overlooking the city make it worth a visit.

Scenic Ride to Mtatsminda and Old Town Charm

One of the tour’s highlights is the funicular ride up to Mtatsminda Park at 770 meters above sea level. The 501-meter cable railway offers breathtaking views of Tbilisi’s rooftops, winding streets, and hills. This is a perfect spot for photos, especially as the sun starts to set or if you arrive early morning—though during the day, the vistas are equally captivating.

Descending into Old Town, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Tbilisi’s history. Walking through winding streets, you’ll notice architectural styles spanning medieval, neoclassical, Art Nouveau, Stalinist, and modern influences—a reflection of the city’s diverse past. This area is the soul of Tbilisi, with lively cafes, artisan shops, and historic buildings lining cobblestone streets.

Historic Sites & Religious Landmarks

Your guide will take you to Metekhi Cathedral, a site dating back to the 13th century, reconstructed multiple times after damage and wars. Once a key religious and political center, it now offers insight into Georgian resilience and faith. Nearby, you’ll see the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali—a symbol of Tbilisi’s legendary founder—and learn about its historical significance.

Next is the Narikala Fortress, established in the 4th century, which dominates the skyline with its ancient walls and battlements. The fortress has been expanded over centuries and offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. You can explore its ruins, imagine medieval battles, and enjoy the scenery.

The Aerial Tramway and Waterfalls

A ride on the Aerial Tramway takes you to the Mother of Kartli monument, a 20-meter aluminum sculpture symbolizing the Georgian character—holding a bowl of wine in her left hand and a sword in her right. The views from this height are spectacular, with the city stretching out below.

Afterward, you’ll visit the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall and Sulphur Baths, both offering unique local experiences. The thermal springs are believed to have healing properties, and the baths are an iconic part of Tbilisi’s identity. The waterfall adds a touch of natural beauty to your urban exploration, flowing from the nearby botanical gardens.

Religious & Cultural Sites

Continuing your walk, you’ll explore Sioni Cathedral, an important religious site rebuilt multiple times since the 6th century. Its architecture reflects the layers of history, with the current structure dating mainly from the 13th century. Nearby, Jvaris Mama Church, believed to be built on the site of St. Nino’s residence, adds to the spiritual atmosphere.

The tour also includes a visit to Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi from the 6th century, and the vibrant Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater, with its famous clock tower that plays a miniature show every hour. These stops reveal the city’s religious, artistic, and theatrical traditions.

End of the Day: The Bridge of Peace & Local Dining

The grand finale is a visit to the Bridge of Peace, a modern marvel with a wave-like design, connecting Old Town with Rike Park. Completed in 2010, it’s a favorite for photos, especially when lit at night, and offers a poetic contrast to the city’s historic sites.

Your day concludes with a transfer to a luxurious Georgian restaurant, where you’ll enjoy traditional dishes accompanied by folk music and dance performances. This is a perfect way to unwind, reflect on your day, and taste some of Georgia’s renowned culinary delights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $147.50 per person, this private experience packs a lot into nine hours. The inclusion of private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a curated list of sights means you get a personalized, hassle-free day. The wine tasting and local lunch are substantial highlights—offering a taste of Georgia’s famed wine and cuisine, which are often considered some of the best in the region.

Many travelers find that the tour’s schedule gives a rundown without feeling overly rushed, though some reviews note that the guide’s quality can vary. It’s worth requesting a guide with strong local knowledge and engaging storytelling to get the most out of each stop.

The flexibility of private transportation means you won’t be stuck in crowded buses, and the pace can be slightly adjusted if needed. Plus, the scenic cable car rides and panoramic views are qualities that make this tour memorable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This full-day tour caters well to first-time visitors wanting an overview of Tbilisi’s key sights. It’s ideal for those who enjoy history, architecture, and immersive cultural experiences, especially since it combines sightseeing with local food and wine. The walk in Old Town involves some uneven terrain and stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must.

It’s also great for travelers who prefer a private, personalized approach rather than group tours. If you’re interested in tasting Georgian wine, exploring historic sites, and enjoying city views from above, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers eager to get a good feel for the city’s character.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private air-conditioned transportation is part of the package, making it easier to hop from one site to another without logistical worries.

Will I need to pay for the funicular ride?
The funicular is included in the tour’s schedule, but the cost is around $7 per person if you choose to do it separately outside the tour.

Is there time for photos at each stop?
Absolutely. Many stops, like the Chronicles of Georgia and Narikala Fortress, are prime photo locations. Your guide will likely encourage capturing the views and key monuments.

How long are the walking portions?
You should prepare for a few hours of walking, mainly through Old Town’s cobbled streets and historic sites. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 147 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Booking early ensures availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Are meals and wine tasting included?
Yes, the tour features a traditional Georgian lunch and wine tasting, giving you an authentic culinary experience.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Tbilisi City Tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, scenic views, culture, and local flavors—all delivered in a private, personalized manner. It’s particularly suited for those who want a comprehensive introduction to the city without the fuss of organizing each detail themselves. The inclusion of wine tasting and traditional Georgian cuisine adds a layer of enjoyment that makes the experience truly memorable.

While the guide’s knowledge level can influence the overall experience, the carefully curated itinerary and stunning vistas make this tour a worthwhile investment. If you’re eager to understand Tbilisi’s complex past, enjoy beautiful cityscapes, and indulge in local food and drink, this tour is a strong choice.

For travelers craving an authentic, stress-free exploration of Georgia’s charming capital, this experience delivers a full plate of sights, tastes, and stories—perfect for making your visit truly special.

This tour is best suited for those who want a detailed, relaxed, and culturally-rich day in Tbilisi with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, delicious food, and genuine local insights.