Tbilisi: Old & New city, Guided tour with 12 Tastings

When it comes to exploring Tbilisi, this guided tour offers a fantastic way to blend history, culture, and food into a compact 3-hour experience. The tour promises a walk through both historic Old Town and more contemporary sights, packed with 12 carefully curated tastings—from local wines to sweet treats—and insights from passionate guides.

What we particularly love is how this tour balances storytelling with authentic culinary experiences. It’s a great way to understand what makes Georgia’s capital so unique, all while satisfying your taste buds. However, one thing to consider is that with around 2 to 3 miles of walking involved, it might be a bit tiring for those less inclined to spend time on their feet.

This tour works best for food lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers eager to get a comprehensive snapshot of Tbilisi’s lively streets, historic sites, and rich culinary culture.

Key Points

• Balanced blend of sightseeing and tastings offers an authentic taste of Tbilisi’s culture.
• Knowledgeable guides like Giorgi and Irina make the experience engaging and informative.
• Varied stops include historic landmarks, lively markets, and scenic parks.
• Tastings cover a wide spectrum, from wines and spirits to local sweets and bread.
• The tour is ideal for those who enjoy a small-group, personalized experience.
• It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction in a short time.

A Deep Dive into the Tbilisi Experience

The Introduction: Why This Tour Works

This tour is a solid choice for travelers craving a taste of both Tbilisi’s past and present. It’s not just a walk through pretty streets but a real culinary and cultural journey, guided by friendly experts like Giorgi and Irina, who are praised for their deep knowledge and approachable manner. Reviewers frequently mention how guides made the experience personal and informative, with Irina, in particular, being described as “lovely and very knowledgeable.”

One of the standout features is the 12 tastings. These are not simply snacks but a carefully curated selection that represents the essence of Georgian cuisine and drinks. Guests have raved about the delicious mushroom dumplings, refined wine tastings, and the sweet Churchkhela, which is a candle-shaped candy made from grape must and nuts. It’s a small group tour, often private or with limited participants, which enhances the personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions.

Starting Point: Convenient and Scenic

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, making it hassle-free and stress-free. From there, the journey takes you through several key sights in Tbilisi’s Old Town, including the Flower Market, the Dry Bridge Market, and Rezo Gabriadze Theater—a beloved cultural gem with its quirky clock tower. These stops aren’t just picturesque but also offer insight into daily life, local arts, and crafts.

Exploring the Old Town

As you stroll through winding streets lined with traditional Georgian houses, you’ll notice ornate wooden balconies and centuries-old churches. The guide shares stories about the city’s past, helping you connect the dots between the architecture, the ancient churches, mosques, and the sulfur baths, which are part of Tbilisi’s history as a spa city.

Guests mention that the hidden gems like the sulfur baths are especially memorable once explained by a knowledgeable guide. The atmosphere is lively, with vendors at markets selling fresh fruits, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs, contributing to an authentic local vibe.

The Culinary Highlights

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the tastings. Here’s what you can expect:

• Four kinds of Khinkali (meaty, mushroom, potato-cheese, and potato) — these hearty Georgian dumplings are a staple, and tasting different varieties shows their culinary versatility.
• Local lemonade — offers a refreshing break amid the walking.
• Churchkhela — a beloved sweet, often made with walnut or hazelnut, giving you a taste of Georgian confectionery artistry.
• Traditional bread “Shoti” — a crunchy, long loaf that pairs beautifully with cheeses and spreads.
• Wine tastings include white, red, and Qvevri wine, showcasing Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions, which many guests find fascinating. As one reviewer notes, “George knows a lot about Georgian wines,” making the tasting sessions especially informative.
• Local spirit “Chacha” and Muscat liqueur — these spirits give an extra kick and a taste of Georgia’s distilling heritage.

The Scenic and Cultural Stops

Beyond the tastings, the tour includes stops at the clock tower, Rike Park, and the Tbilisi cable car—offering fantastic views and photo opportunities. Guests have appreciated the photo stops, with some remarking that guides are happy to take pictures and ensure you capture memorable moments.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, an expert guide, cable car tickets, and 12 tastings—the value stands out. Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed the variety of flavors and sights for the price, with many noting that the experience exceeded expectations.

The Guide’s Role

Reviews frequently highlight the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach. Giorgi, for example, is described as “confident and funny,” making the walking and tasting enjoyable. Irina is also praised for her insights into Georgian culture. Their passion and local expertise make the tour not just educational but also engaging.

Practical Details

The tour lasts around 3 hours, covering approximately 2-3 miles of walking. It’s suitable for most travelers, but note that babies under 12 require a private tour, and large luggage or strollers are not permitted due to walking and space constraints. The activity operates regardless of weather, so bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

The Verdict on Price and Booking

At a price that includes multiple tastings and sightseeing, the tour offers excellent value, especially when you consider the personalized attention and quality of guides. The ability to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility—perfect for planning a trip to Georgia with ease.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick yet rundown of Tbilisi, combining history and food seamlessly. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of tastings, from wine to sweets, while history lovers will enjoy exploring the city’s iconic landmarks with context-rich stories. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, guided experience that balances cultural insights with delicious discoveries.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This guided walk through Tbilisi offers a fantastic introduction to Georgia’s capital. The blend of landmarks, markets, and culinary highlights creates a well-rounded experience. The small-group or private format makes it personal, while the knowledgeable guides ensure you get the most out of each stop.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines history, local life, and authentic cuisine—this tour hits all the right notes. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their short stay without rushing, enjoying a mix of scenery, stories, and flavors.

While a bit of walking is involved, the comfortable pace and engaging stops make it manageable for most. And after just three hours, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of what makes Tbilisi so special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 are only allowed on private tours, making it less ideal for families with young kids in a group setting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you'll be walking around for about 2-3 miles.

Are there any food or drink exclusions?
The tour includes 12 tastings, so additional food and drinks are not included unless specified.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, providing flexibility to plan your trip spontaneously.

What if it rains?
The tour runs regardless of weather, so it's wise to bring an umbrella or rain jacket if necessary.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, covering key sights and tastings—an efficient way to see much in a short time.

Is the tour private or group?
Both options are available, with many reviews noting the value of small or private groups for a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, this Tbilisi guided tour with 12 tastings offers a fantastic mix of sights, flavors, and stories perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, enriching taste of Georgia’s capital. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or simply curious about this vibrant city, it’s a memorable way to spend a few hours that will leave you with plenty of stories—and maybe a new favorite wine or two.