Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast with Culinary Backstreets

A Taste of Tbilisi’s Past and Present: An In-Depth Look at the Silk Road Food Tour with Culinary Backstreets

Imagine wandering through cobblestone streets, sampling mouthwatering Georgian dishes, and soaking in centuries of history—all with a knowledgeable guide who makes it feel like exploring with a friend. That’s exactly what the Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast promises. This 7-hour tour offers a blend of cultural sights, local stories, and an impressive variety of Georgian cuisine, all for just $125 per person. It’s a highly-rated experience, booked over 5 times last week alone, and recommended by 98% of past participants.

What really makes this tour stand out is the way it combines history and food seamlessly. We love how it offers a genuine, authentic taste of Tbilisi beyond the typical tourist spots, with stops at iconic landmarks and hidden gems. At the same time, a possible drawback to consider is the pace—if you’re not a big eater or prefer a slower, more relaxed experience, the full-day schedule might feel a bit packed. Still, for those eager to explore, learn, and taste Georgian flavors in a single day, it hits the mark perfectly.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of culture and cuisine, want a guided insider’s perspective, and are ready to eat plenty along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to get a true feel for Tbilisi’s everyday life, this experience offers a comprehensive introduction.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Combines visits to historic landmarks with tastings of traditional Georgian dishes.
• Knowledgeable Guide: The guide’s deep understanding of both local history and food culture enriches the experience.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Stops include the oldest church, a historic tea house, and a modern wine bar showcasing Georgia’s diverse heritage.
• Tasty Variety: From homemade dumplings to sizzling chicken, the tour covers a broad spectrum of Georgian cuisine.
• Ideal Length: Seven hours of walking, eating, and discovering, providing a fulfilling yet manageable day.

Exploring the Detailed Itinerary

Starting in Old Town Tbilisi

The tour kicks off at Waterfall Square, setting the tone in one of the city’s most atmospheric areas. We loved the visit to an underground Azeri tea house, which is a lesser-known gem offering a cozy, authentic taste of regional tea traditions. The guide will likely share stories about the significance of tea in this part of the Caucasus, adding depth to what might seem like a simple beverage.

Sioni Cathedral and Local Artisanal Treats

Next, a walk through the streets takes us to Sioni Cathedral, a key religious site with a history that stretches back centuries. Here, the visit to a church-run shop is particularly special; you might find yourself sampling products straight from Orthodox monasteries—things that are usually kept behind monastery walls. One reviewer highlighted the stunning treats sampled here, emphasizing the artisanal quality of these products.

A Toast at Freedom Square’s Wine Bar

Freedom Square is more than just a photo op. In the back alleys near this iconic spot, the tour visits a boutique wine bar focused on small-scale Georgian wine producers. Georgia’s reputation as the “cradle of wine” is well earned, and here you’ll get to taste a variety of local wines, often with a story behind each pour. Travelers have noted the “excellent wine selection” as a real highlight, adding a layer of cultural depth to the tasting experience.

Historic Anchiskhati Basilica and Rezo Gabriadze Theater

We walk to Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, which offers a visual feast of medieval architecture. It’s a quiet spot that allows for reflection before heading to the nearby Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater. The theater’s quirky charm and the nearby setting make it a perfect backdrop for a meal of shkmeruli—a sizzling, garlic-infused chicken dish that’s a staple of Georgian feasts. One guest described this as a “cert a favorite of any Georgian feast,” and the savory aroma alone is enough to make the stomach rumble.

Political Landmarks and Khinkali Tasting

A short walk takes us past the Parliament of Georgia, where the guide shares insights about Georgian politics and society. Just nearby, a master khinkali (Georgian dumpling) maker prepares freshly made dumplings, which we get to sample. This hands-on tasting is praised for its freshness and authenticity, giving us a true taste of local craftsmanship. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the guide’s local connections lead to special, behind-the-scenes tastings.

Concluding at Metekhi Cathedral and Artisanal Cheese Shop

The final stop is the scenic Metekhi Cathedral, perched above the river. Here, we explore the impressive architecture and panoramic views before heading to a cheese shop for a tasting. Georgia’s cheese varieties are often overlooked but are a delightful complement to the wine and bread enjoyed throughout the tour.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration & Pace: At approximately 7 hours, this tour is a full-day affair. Expect a fair amount of walking, with stops about every 30 to 60 minutes. As the reviews mention, it’s quite satisfying—so come hungry, and wear comfortable shoes.

Group Size & Atmosphere: With a maximum of 7 travelers, the group feels intimate and friendly. This is ideal for those who prefer a more personalized experience and the chance to ask questions freely.

Cost & Value: At $125 per person, the tour offers excellent value. You get not only multiple tastings of foods and wines but also a comprehensive cultural and historical narrative. Reviewers have noted that the food alone could justify the price, but the added stories, site visits, and local insights elevate it even further.

Booking & Convenience: Starts at Waterfall Square at 10:00 am. The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travelers’ plans.

What We Loved About This Experience

The guide, Maka, is frequently praised for her deep knowledge of both Georgian cuisine and history. Her storytelling makes each stop come alive, whether discussing the significance of the oldest church or the unique qualities of Georgian wines. Several reviews mention her as a “knowledgeable historian” who enhances the journey with fascinating stories.

The food itself receives high marks: from the sizzling shkmeruli to freshly made khinkali and artisanal cheeses, each bite feels authentic and thoughtfully prepared. The wine tastings, highlighting small producers, provide a genuine taste of Georgia’s vinicultural heritage that you won’t find in touristy wine shops.

The scenic stops—Freedom Square, Anchiskhati Basilica, and Metekhi Cathedral—offer stunning views and a sense of the city’s layered history. The combination of walking, eating, and storytelling creates a well-rounded, immersive experience.

Authenticity and Insider Access

What sets this tour apart is the way it offers insider access. The visit to a church-run shop with products straight from monasteries, the behind-the-scenes khinkali tasting with a master chef, and the wine bar featuring local producers are all highlights that make you feel like a true local.

Flexibility and Personal Touch

With small group sizes, guides can tailor the experience to your interests and ensure you’re comfortably engaged throughout. The tour is designed for genuine interaction, allowing questions and spontaneous discoveries.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers keen on culture, eager to understand Georgia’s culinary traditions beyond the basics. It appeals to foodies who want to taste a variety of local dishes and drinks, as well as history lovers who appreciate storytelling woven into their sightseeing. It’s also great for those who prefer a small-group setting for more personalized attention.

If you’re looking for a full day of walking, eating, and learning, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour will check all those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a genuine local experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and discover hidden gems.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including walking and visits to multiple sites and stops for tastings.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and a full-day schedule.

Are the food and wine tastings included?
Yes, the tour includes numerous tastings of Georgian dishes, cheeses, and wines, giving you a comprehensive taste of local flavors.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Waterfall Square, in central Tbilisi, and concludes near Galaktion Tabidze Street.

To sum it up, the Old Town and Beyond: A Tbilisi Silk Road Feast offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and cuisine in an intimate setting. It’s perfect for those wanting to see Tbilisi through a local’s eyes—sample authentic food, enjoy scenic landmarks, and learn stories that bring the city’s history to life. The knowledgeable guide, Maka, and the thoughtfully curated stops make this tour a standout choice for anyone eager to experience Georgia’s unique flavors and heritage in one satisfying day.

For travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and delicious food, this tour promises an engaging, flavorful journey through Tbilisi’s past and present.