Tbilisi: Old&New City Guided Tour w/ 13 Tastings & Cable car

Exploring Tbilisi through a guided tour that combines sightseeing with authentic Georgian food and wine is a fantastic way to get a well-rounded taste of this lively city. This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural highlights, local flavors, and scenic views—ideal for travelers eager to see the city’s contrasts, from its historic streets to modern parks.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the variety of tastings included—13 in total—that highlight Georgia’s culinary diversity, from savory dumplings to limited-edition wines. However, with a busy itinerary covering multiple neighborhoods and a fair amount of walking, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace. If you’re someone who loves discovering local food spots and enjoys insightful guides, this tour will hit the mark.

One potential consideration is the duration—at 3 to 5 hours, it’s a flexible experience, but you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and come prepared for a good amount of walking and standing. This tour is ideal for curious travelers ready to explore both the old and emerging parts of Tbilisi with a focus on authentic tastes and cultural insights.

Key Points

• Authentic Food & Drink: 13 tastings at top venues, including local dumplings, sweets, and wines.
• Cultural Highlights: Scenic walks past iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
• Scenic Views: Cable car ride offering a unique perspective of the city.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who deepen your understanding of Georgia’s traditions.
• Local Markets & Hidden Spots: Visits to bustling markets and lesser-known neighborhoods.
• Flexible Options: Private or small group tours available, perfect for personalized experiences.

Exploring Tbilisi’s Diverse Neighborhoods and Landmarks

This tour is really about revealing Tbilisi’s layers. Starting from the main avenue, you’ll get a taste of the city’s historical core with a walk that’s both scenic and educational. The landmarks you see along the way aren’t just pretty backdrops—they’re stories in stone, from the bridges to the parks.

The Dry Bridge Market is one of the first stops, offering a lively glimpse into local arts, crafts, and vintage collectibles. It’s more than a photo opportunity; it’s an invitation to browse authentic stalls that showcase Tbilisi’s creative spirit. Guests have noted that this stop provides a “guided tour with local insights,” giving visitors context that turns casual browsing into cultural discovery.

Moving into the city’s street food scene, you’ll sample regional specialties like Khinkali—those plump, juicy dumplings filled with meat, mushrooms, or cheese. One reviewer, Andrea, raved about the experience, saying, “Great tour with Georgi! Highly recommended!” This indicates guides like Georgi excel at blending food tastings with storytelling, making each bite more meaningful.

The tour also includes visits to bustling food markets, where vendor stalls overflow with spices, fresh fruits, and handmade sweets like churchkhela. Discovering how these ingredients come together in Georgian cuisine helps visitors understand the deep connection between food and tradition.

Iconic Landmarks & Scenic Stops

Among the highlights are stops at some of Tbilisi’s most recognizable spots, like the Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, and Kartlis Deda—the statue of the “Mother of Georgia.” These are more than photo ops; they are vantage points to appreciate the city’s fascinating blend of old and new architecture.

Guests have appreciated the flexibility here, with free time at various stops allowing for personal exploration or quick photos. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide was knowledgeable and personable,” which suggests a tour experience that balances guided commentary with moments to soak in the atmosphere.

The cable car ride, included in the tour, offers sweeping views over the cityscape—an experience that many find worth the price of admission. It’s a chance to see Tbilisi from above, getting a sense of its layout and surrounding hills, which are often overlooked in standard sightseeing.

Culinary Highlights & Exclusive Tastings

The heart of this tour lies in its food and beverage tastings. With 13 included items, you’ll get a real sense of Georgia’s culinary pride. This isn’t just about sampling; it’s about understanding the cultural importance of each dish and drink.

From the traditional Khinkali to the churchkhela sweets, each tasting is served at top venues, often led by knowledgeable staff. The wine tastings are especially notable, with options like White, Red, and Qvevri wines—Georgia’s ancient method of winemaking. Guests have praised the limited-edition wines and spirits like Chacha (local spirit) and Muscat liqueur, for offering a glimpse into Georgia’s celebrated traditions.

Marianna’s review highlights the quality: “Very interesting, engaging and informative… Our guide was knowledgeable and personable,” emphasizing how guides enhance the tasting experience with stories and background.

The included wine bar visit provides an opportunity to sample exclusive Georgian wines that aren’t always available elsewhere, adding a layer of depth for wine enthusiasts. The tasting sessions are balanced, offering enough to satisfy without overwhelming, so you’ll leave with both a full belly and a deeper understanding of Georgian wine culture.

Logistics: What to Expect and Considerations

This tour is designed as a half-day experience, lasting between 3 and 5 hours, making it suitable for those who want a substantial but manageable introduction to Tbilisi. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in the city center.

You should plan for roughly 2 to 3 miles of walking, mostly at a leisurely pace, but with some standing and short climbs at certain stops. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes are advised, as the tour operates in all weather conditions—so be prepared whether it’s sunny or rainy.

The tour’s group size is small or private, allowing for a more personalized experience. It’s perfect if you appreciate engaging guides who can tailor their commentary and answer questions about the city and its cuisine.

A key value point is the ability to reserve without immediate payment, providing flexibility for your travel plans. The tour is also suitable for children over 12 or private groups with younger kids, but not for children under 4.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour’s inclusion of 13 tastings, cable car tickets, and expert guides suggests a comprehensive experience that offers excellent value. Paying a single fee grants access to diverse culinary delights, cultural landmarks, and scenic views—all in around 4 hours.

Guests consistently say that the quality of the food and the expertise of guides make this a worthwhile investment. The focus on authentic tastes and local traditions ensures you’re not just ticking off sights but genuinely experiencing Georgia’s heart through its flavors and stories.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Tbilisi’s Old and New City provides a well-rounded overview of the city’s diverse neighborhoods, landmarks, and culinary traditions. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting authentic Georgian dishes, sampling limited-edition wines, and gaining insights from knowledgeable guides.

If you’re a food lover, wine enthusiast, or curious explorer eager to uncover the city’s hidden gems, this tour is likely to satisfy. The inclusion of scenic views via cable car and visits to iconic spots makes it a memorable, value-packed experience.

However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and who enjoy engaging guides and intimate group settings. With flexible booking options, it’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a rich, authentic introduction to Tbilisi’s culture and flavors.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, tickets for the cable car, and 13 food and beverage tastings, including local wines, spirits, and snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that balances sightseeing with tastings.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, expect roughly 2 to 3 miles of walking at a relaxed pace, with stops for photos and free time to explore or rest.

Can children participate?
Children over 12 can join the tour. Children under 4 are not permitted, but private options may be available for families with young kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The tour focuses on traditional Georgian foods, but it’s best to inquire beforehand if you have specific dietary needs.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve the tour now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change. Full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

This Tbilisi tour offers a delightful blend of flavor, culture, and scenic beauty—perfect for those eager to truly experience Georgia’s capital in an engaging, authentic way.