Old Tbilisi Tour: Private Walking Tour With Wine Tasting

Introduction

This Old Tbilisi Tour offers an intriguing peek into Georgia’s charming capital—combining a peaceful, scenic walk with cultural insights and a delicious wine tasting. Priced at just $39 per person, it’s an accessible way to explore the city’s most iconic sights while learning about its fascinating past. With a high 5-star rating based on 238 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this experience both engaging and worthwhile.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is the personalized attention you get from a dedicated guide—no rushing, just a relaxed, friendly exploration. The inclusion of a cable car ride to a panoramic viewpoint adds a memorable touch, giving visitors a stunning overview of Tbilisi. A possible consideration is the tour’s approximate 2 to 3 hours duration, which might feel a bit quick for those who want a more in-depth experience but is perfect for a half-day adventure.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Tbilisi’s history, culture, and scenery without breaking the bank. It’s especially ideal if you’re a fan of local wines or simply want a low-stress way to see the highlights while hearing stories from an expert guide.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private guide ensures a tailored visit, focusing on what interests you most.
• Stunning Views: The cable car ride offers a memorable perspective over Tbilisi, perfect for photo lovers.
• Rich Cultural Stops: From historic fortresses to iconic statues and churches, each site has a story.
• Wine Tasting: Sample authentic Georgian wines, a highlight for wine enthusiasts eager to taste Georgia’s famous viniculture.
• Accessible & Convenient: Included cable car tickets and centrally located meeting point make logistics straightforward.
• Great Value: At only $39, you get a comprehensive tour, scenic views, culture, and wine tasting—an impressive package.

Starting Point: Metekhi Virgin Mary Assumption Church

The tour kicks off right at the Metekhi Church, a historic site perched on the riverbank. Meeting here gives you immediate access to the old city’s atmosphere—cobbled streets and ancient churches. From the outset, your guide (commonly Luka, who’s praised for his knowledge and friendly vibe) sets the tone for a personalized, relaxed exploration.

Narikala Fortress: The Heart of Old Tbilisi

A quick cable car ride transports you to Narikala Fortress, an ancient citadel established in the 4th century. Its layered history—built by the Sasanian Empire, expanded by the Umayyads, and later fortified by Georgian kings—offers a physical timeline of Georgia’s past. Visitors often comment on the spectacular architecture and panoramic views from the fortress walls.

As one reviewer put it, “We went up in the cable car to get panoramic views of the city from the Mother Armenia statue,” which perfectly captures how this stop combines history with picture-perfect scenery. Walking around the fortress ruins, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and strategic importance of this site, as well as the chance to capture stunning photos of Tbilisi’s rooftops and hills.

Kartlis Deda: A Symbol of Georgian Spirit

Next, the guide takes you to see Kartlis Deda, the 20-meter aluminum statue of a woman in traditional dress, symbolizing Georgia’s hospitality and resilience. Erected in 1958, it’s a quick stop—about 10 minutes—but a meaningful one, embodying the Georgian character: welcoming with wine in her left hand and ready for battle with a sword in her right.

Abanotubani: The Sulfur Baths District

Descending from the fortress, you’ll stroll into Abanotubani, a legendary area famous for its natural sulfur springs. Historically, the founding of Tbilisi is linked to this area, where locals have bathed in mineral-rich waters for centuries. The natural hot springs flow at about 47°C, providing not just a cultural experience but also a sensory one, with the smell of sulfur blending into the air.

Reviews highlight how this area’s legend adds a layer of authenticity—some people find it fascinating to walk where ancient Tbilisi was born. Though the baths themselves are private, the district’s streets are lively, colorful, and perfect for soaking in the local vibe.

Legvachtahvi Gorge and Waterfall: A Refreshing Break

A short walk brings you to the Legvachtahvi Gorge, featuring a picturesque waterfall—ideal for escaping the summer heat or just enjoying the natural beauty in the middle of the city. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a small but perfectly formed inner-city waterfall,” and its accessibility makes it a favorite for visitors craving a quick nature fix.

Jan Shardeni Street: The Nightlife Hub

From the waterfall, the route takes you to Chardin Street, a bustling, colorful street full of cafes, bars, and shops. Named after the French traveler Jean Chardin, it’s famed for its lively atmosphere and nightlife that often lasts into the early hours. The street’s charm lies in its blend of historic architecture and modern vibrancy, making it a popular stop for both daytime sightseeing and evening socializing.

Sioni Cathedral: A Religious Landmark

The tour continues on foot to Sioni Cathedral, initially built in the 5th century and reconstructed in the 17th. It houses the original cross of St. Nino, a revered relic. Visiting this cathedral provides a glimpse into Georgia’s spiritual heritage. Reviewers comment on the peaceful ambiance and the chance to see centuries-old artifacts and architecture.

The Bridge of Peace: Modern Meets Old

A must-see in Tbilisi, the Bridge of Peace is a sleek, glass pedestrian bridge that officially opened in 2010. It’s about 156 meters long, decorated with thousands of tiny lamps—a true sight at night. Walking across it offers stunning views of the river and cityscape, making it a favorite photo spot. It’s often highlighted as one of the most beautiful bridges worldwide.

Metekhi Cathedral & Rike Park

Finally, the tour concludes near Metekhi Cathedral and the scenic Rike Park, where the guide shares stories of Georgia’s history and legends, including the legend of Vakhtang Gorgasali. The park is a lively hub with street performers and impressive views of the river.

Wine Tasting & the Cable Car Experience

The wine tasting session is often praised as a highlight—georgian wines are a source of national pride, and being able to sample several varieties adds a delicious dimension to the tour. Many reviews mention 8 or 9 wine samples, showcasing Georgia’s centuries-old wine-making tradition.

The cable car ride provides a quick but breathtaking ascent to the fortress, giving you an aerial view of Tbilisi, which many find to be a truly memorable moment—an opportunity to take plenty of photos and appreciate the city’s layout.

At $39, this tour offers exceptional value. It combines cultural, historical, scenic, and gustatory experiences—all in a manageable 2 to 3-hour window. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides like Luka and Lela, who are not only well-versed in history but also attentive and friendly, making the tour feel personalized.

The inclusion of free cable car tickets and wine tasting adds to the appeal, especially considering the central meeting point makes logistics easy. The tour is private, which means you get the flexibility to ask questions and tailor the experience, even if it’s a quick overview.

Reviewers consistently mention how informative and engaging the guides are, often sharing fascinating stories or insider tips, such as extra stops or local food suggestions. The stunning viewpoints combined with authentic sites make this a comprehensive introduction to Tbilisi, perfect for those wanting a snapshot of the city’s essence.

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Tbilisi who want to hit the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also great for those interested in Georgia’s wine culture, as tastings are a core part of the experience. The private nature makes it suitable for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a more intimate, flexible tour.

If you’re short on time but crave a rich, scenic overview of the city’s most iconic sights with added local flavor, this tour will fit the bill. Visitors who enjoy learning about history through stories and seeing beautiful city views from vantage points will find this tour particularly rewarding.

This Old Tbilisi Tour stands out as a fantastic value for a comprehensive, scenic, and cultural introduction to Georgia’s capital. It strikes a balance between sightseeing, storytelling, and tasting, offering an experience that feels both authentic and memorable. The knowledgeable guides, especially Luka and Lela, make a genuine difference in creating a warm, engaging atmosphere.

Perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy local wines, and see the most photogenic spots, this tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Tbilisi’s charm. While it’s brief, the depth of history, stunning views, and friendly service ensure it’s more than just a quick walk—it’s an experience worth sharing.

For those seeking a low-cost, high-impact city introduction with a taste of local culture and scenic vistas, this tour hits the mark. Whether you’re a solo explorer, couple, or small group, you’ll leave with plenty of memories—and perhaps a few new wine favorites.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but it requires a moderate physical level since it involves walking on cobbled streets and some elevation changes. The cable car ride is included and straightforward.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Metekhi Virgin Mary Assumption Church and concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

Are meals or additional drinks included?
No, the tour includes wine tasting but does not cover meals. The tasting features several local wines, but additional drinks are not included.

Can I customize or add stops?
As a private tour, guides are often flexible and may accommodate small requests, like visiting extra sites or adjusting the pace.

Is there an age restriction?
The tour is suitable for most ages; service animals are allowed, but specific age restrictions aren’t specified.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for the stunning views, and an appetite for some delicious Georgian wine.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is typically booked 14 days in advance and has a high demand, so early reservations are recommended for securing a spot.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced, engaging, and affordable way to see Tbilisi’s highlights with authentic local flavor. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a mix of history, scenery, and wine—delivered by guides passionate about their city.