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

Exploring Tbilisi with a guided tour that combines sightseeing, food, and wine tasting can be one of the most memorable ways to get to know Georgia’s capital. This tour, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 based on three reviews, promises a balanced mix of history, culinary delights, and scenic views—all packed into a flexible 3 to 5-hour experience. From city landmarks to hidden local gems, it’s designed to give visitors a taste of Tbilisi’s vibrant personality.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour is the 13 tastings included—highlighting everything from traditional Georgian dumplings to exclusive wines and spirits. The guided aspect, led by personable and knowledgeable guides, elevates the experience with insider stories and local recommendations. Plus, the cable car rides add a scenic touch that’s hard to beat.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour involves approximately 2 to 3 miles of walking, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some physical activity. Also, while the tour is flexible in duration, those looking for a more relaxed pace might find the more intensive tasting schedule a bit brisk. Still, it’s perfect for foodies, culture buffs, and first-time visitors eager to maximize their time in Tbilisi.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Georgian culture, combining history, food, and wine in one enjoyable outing. Whether you’re a curious explorer or a seasoned gastronome, you’ll likely find it both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Authentic Georgian flavors: Tasting 13 local specialties, including khinkali and exclusive wines.
• Cultural highlights: Visiting iconic landmarks and hidden neighborhoods with expert insights.
• Scenic views: Cable car rides offer a stunning perspective of Tbilisi’s diverse architecture.
• In-depth experience: Guided commentary from friendly, knowledgeable guides like Georgi, who impress reviewers.
• Value for money: All tastings and cable car tickets included, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Active component: About 2-3 miles of walking, suitable for those comfortable with some activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tbilisi: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Tbilisi is a city that offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. This tour leverages that contrast beautifully, guiding you from historic sites to lively markets, all while savoring the flavors that define Georgian cuisine. What makes it special isn’t just the sights but the way the experience is curated to be engaging, fun, and informative.

The Itinerary: A Well-Rounded Journey

Starting with convenient hotel pickup and a warm welcome, the tour kicks off at the Dry Bridge Market, a must-see for anyone interested in arts, crafts, and local produce. Here, you can snap photos of the eclectic stalls and get a first taste of the city’s lively scene. Reviewing guests mention enjoying this stop as it offers a peek into local daily life and a chance to see unique handmade crafts.

Next, the tour takes you through a series of stops where you taste freshly baked Shoti bread and other regional foods. Sampling a variety of khinkali—Georgia’s famous meat, mushroom, and potato-cheese dumplings—is a highlight. Guests often describe these as the perfect introduction to Georgian comfort food, with Andrea noting “Great tour with Georgi! Highly recommended!” as he appreciated the food’s authenticity.

The stops also include visits to buzzing food markets where vendors display vibrant spices, fruits, and sweet treats like churchkhela—candle-shaped candies made of nuts and grape juice. Marianna praised the tour for being “very interesting, engaging, and informative,” emphasizing how the guide’s insights made the experience richer.

Landmark and Neighborhood Discoveries

Tbilisi’s architecture and neighborhoods are as diverse as its cuisine, and the tour makes sure you see the best of both. Stops at familiar landmarks like The Bridge of Peace and Rike Park offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the city’s modern side. According to reviews, these scenic stops are well-paced, providing both sightseeing and free time to soak in the atmosphere.

Moving into the historic parts of the city, the tour explores narrower streets, colorful balconies, and centuries-old churches. The guide’s local insights help you understand the stories behind each corner—something Michael appreciated, mentioning his experience “never having had such an informative, delicious, and enjoyable tour.”

The Wine and Spirits Experience

Georgia is renowned for its wine, and this tour makes sure you taste some of the best. The highlight is the visit to a wine bar where you’ll sample limited-edition Georgian wines, including Qvevri wines—fermented in traditional clay vessels. The inclusion of white and red wines, plus a tasting of Chacha (a potent local spirit), offers a comprehensive view of Georgian brewing traditions.

Reviewers like Michael praise this part of the tour, saying “Georgi offered a first-class service,” and that the wine tasting was “a highlight.” The exclusive access to high-quality, small-batch wines is a real plus, especially for connoisseurs or those seeking a deeper understanding of Georgia’s winemaking heritage.

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Cable Car Rides and Panoramic Views

A standout feature is the cable car ride, included in the tour, which offers stunning views of the city’s rooftops, mountains, and river. This adds a scenic element to your day and makes the sightseeing feel more dynamic. Many guests have found that this short ride is the perfect way to take a breather and appreciate the city’s layout from above.

Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Tour

Transport is seamless with hotel pickup and drop-off included, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transportation or arranging separate transfers. The group sizes tend to be small or private, which means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.

The tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours, so you can choose a starting time that fits your schedule—perfect for combining with other activities or rest periods. The walking component involves about 2 to 3 miles, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Price-wise, the tour covers all tastings, cable car tickets, and expert guiding, presenting great value considering the variety and quality of experiences packed into a half-day. The inclusions make it especially convenient, as you won’t have to worry about hidden costs or additional expenses.

What’s Not Included

The only expense not covered is additional food or drinks outside the scheduled tastings, so you’re free to explore more independently afterward if desired.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing with culinary adventures. It’s especially suitable for those who want a structured but flexible experience, with knowledgeable guides like Georgi who make the history and culture come alive. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Tbilisi or anyone interested in Georgian wines and traditional foods.

Families with children over 12 (or private bookings for younger children) will find it manageable, but small children under 4 might not be suitable due to the walking involved. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so come prepared for whatever Georgia’s weather throws your way.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour of Tbilisi offers a well-balanced mix of historic sights, local flavors, and scenic views. The inclusion of 13 tastings—ranging from khinkali to premium wines—ensures that your palate is as satisfied as your curiosity. The knowledgeable guides, especially Georgi, add a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing walk.

If you’re looking for an authentic, immersive way to spend half a day in Tbilisi, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic choice for foodies, culture lovers, and anyone eager to see both the old and new sides of this captivating city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient experience from start to finish.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration ranges from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the pace and group size, with check-in times available to suit your schedule.

Are the tastings suitable for vegetarians or specific dietary needs?
The tour features traditional Georgian foods like khinkali and sweets, but specific dietary restrictions aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have special dietary needs.

What is included in the price?
All tastings, cable car tickets, and the guided service are included. Extras like additional food or beverages outside the scheduled tastings are not.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 12 can participate, especially in private or small group settings. Children under 4 may not be allowed, and those under 10 should check with the provider.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the activity operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or sun.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, expect to walk about 2 to 3 miles across various stops, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, with flexible booking options that allow you to reserve now and pay later, you can secure your spot closer to your travel dates.

In sum, this Tbilisi tour offers an appealing combination of cultural sightseeing, culinary indulgence, and scenic views, all guided by passionate local experts. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy a memorable half-day in Georgia’s charming capital, it’s a well-crafted experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: