Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings

Tbilisi’s Old Town is a captivating mix of winding cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and architectural surprises that tell stories of Georgia’s past and present. This Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings promises a taste of local culture along with a healthy dose of sightseeing, all within about three and a half hours. It’s an experience that combines history, authentic food, and wine, guided by passionate locals eager to share their city’s secrets.

What drew us in was the chance to explore the city’s most iconic sights—like the Gabriadze clock tower and the Mother of Georgia monument—while sampling flavors that are unique to Georgia. The inclusion of more than 10 tastings, from wine to pastries, feels like a wonderful way to get immersed without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The tour also offers a chance to uncover lesser-known gems, making it perfect for those wanting a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi.

One thing to keep in mind is the walking pace—it’s quite manageable but involves some cobbled streets, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, as with many city tours, the meeting point is central but requires some planning to reach. This tour suits travelers looking for a blend of cultural insight, authentic local flavors, and an intimate group setting.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group tours (limit of 10) or private options make for a more intimate experience.
• Rich Tastings: Over 10 different tastings, including unique Georgian wines, pastries, spices, and chacha.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Giorgi, Luka, and others are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Authentic Spots: Stops include a historic bakery, spice shop, and local cheese and pastry tasting—giving real insight into Georgian cuisine.
• Iconic Landmarks & Hidden Gems: From the famous Peace Bridge to lesser-known spots, your guide shares stories that bring the city alive.
• Inclusive & Flexible: The tour is suitable for most, though it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, and dress code considerations apply for church visits.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: Balancing Highlights and Hidden Locales

The tour begins at the Berikaoba monument, a lively spot featuring dancers in a circle—an inviting and energetic start. From here, your guide will lead you through the maze of Old Tbilisi, showing you the city’s most recognizable sights like the charming Clock Tower of Gabriadze, with its whimsical design and puppet shows, and the modern Peace Bridge, whose wave-like shape offers a stark contrast to the historic surroundings.

You’ll also visit the colorful Shardeni Street, packed with cafes and shops, perfect for soaking in the lively atmosphere. The Mother of Georgia monument offers sweeping views over the city, a highlight that many reviews mention with enthusiasm because of the impressive panoramic scenery.

Along the way, your guide will point out lesser-known spots that you might miss on your own, such as hidden courtyards and quiet alleys. This mix of famous landmarks and secret corners keeps the walk engaging and authentic.

Culinary and Tasting Stops: A Feast for the Senses

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the variety of tastings. You’ll stop at a historic bakery to try traditional pastries like khachapuri cheese pie, which reviewers describe as delicious and freshly baked. The spice shop provides an aromatic experience, where you sample high-quality spices and homemade chacha, Georgia’s famed grape brandy.

The wine tastings—white dry, semi-sweet, amber, and dry red wines—are carefully curated to showcase Georgia’s reputation as a cradle of wine-making. Many guests comment on the excellent quality and the chance to taste wines that are quite different from what you might find elsewhere. A dried fruit tasting and adjika (spicy condiment) add more layers to the culinary adventure, along with Svan salt and sweet pastries filled with cream.

Knowledgeable Guides & Engaging Stories

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Giorgi, Luka, and Niniko elevate the experience with their friendliness and depth of knowledge. Guests have praised guides for their eagerness to share stories, making history come alive rather than feeling like a lecture. One reviewer mentioned Luka’s excellent English and his tips for the rest of their trip, indicating that guides often go above and beyond.

The guides also handle logistics smoothly—answering questions about the city, its traditions, and even practical tips like what to wear for church visits or how to navigate the streets comfortably.

Practical Details: Comfort, Cost, and Group Size

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it an ideal way to get a rundown without feeling exhausted. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures plenty of personal attention and space to ask questions, which many reviewers find valuable.

Price-wise, considering the over 10 tastings, guided sightseeing, and insider access, many agree that it offers great value. The inclusion of local wines and authentic foods means you’re not just sightseeing; you’re tasting your way through Tbilisi’s culinary heart.

While the meeting point at the Berikaoba monument is central, travelers should plan their route to arrive comfortably. The tour does not include transportation, so those with mobility issues might find it challenging due to cobblestone streets and some uphill sections.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re a traveler eager to combine sightseeing with culinary discovery and cultural stories, this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic local flavors, and insider knowledge from guides who genuinely love their city.

The wine tastings alone are a highlight for wine lovers, and the chance to explore both the famous landmarks and hidden corners of Old Tbilisi makes it a well-rounded introduction to the city’s soul. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to deepen your understanding, this tour offers genuine value and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour is a fantastic way to get to know Old Tbilisi’s character, combining the best sights with flavorful tastings that highlight Georgia’s rich culinary traditions. The guides, like Giorgi and Luka, are consistently praised for their knowledge, fun personality, and willingness to share stories that bring the city’s history to life.

You’ll love the way this tour balances iconic landmarks with hidden gems, making every step feel meaningful. The focus on authentic tastes—from wines to pastries—adds a sensory dimension that makes the experience memorable. For anyone wanting a comprehensive, friendly, and flavorful introduction to Tbilisi, this tour is a great pick.

It’s especially suitable if you value small group size, local expertise, and a generous array of tastings that make the price well worth it. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be ready to walk through charming, sometimes uneven streets that show off the city’s true character.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 3.5 hours, providing ample time to see the key sights and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the tastings?
You’ll sample more than 10 items, including various Georgian wines (white dry, semi-sweet, amber, red), chacha, pastries like khachapuri, spices, dried fruits, and savory condiments like adjika and Svan salt.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and some uneven terrain, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start at the Berikaoba monument, with guides waiting there, and the tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised. Women should carry a scarf if planning to visit churches, and men should wear knee-length trousers.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, you can choose a private or small-group experience, which allows for a more personalized and flexible experience.

How is the group size limited?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rich blend of sightseeing, history, and tasting that’s hard to beat for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Tbilisi. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or just love exploring cities through their flavors and stories, this experience is worth considering for an authentic, memorable visit.