Tbilisi: Old and New City Guided Tour with 2 Cable Car Rides

Traveling through Tbilisi? This guided tour offers a great way to see both the city’s historic charm and its modern vibrancy in just a few hours. With two cable car rides to sweeping viewpoints, you’ll get a sense of the city’s contrasting layers — from ancient castles to contemporary neighborhoods. The tour also includes stops at iconic landmarks like Narikala Castle and the Mother of Georgia statue, making for a well-rounded introduction to Georgia’s capital.

What we particularly like about this experience is the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views without strenuous hiking, thanks to the cable cars. Plus, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, which really enhances the overall vibe. One downside? The tour involves about 2 miles of walking which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or young children. But overall, it’s a solid option for most travelers wanting a taste of both old and new Tbilisi in a manageable time frame.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who want a comprehensive yet relaxed way to see the city’s highlights, and for those who appreciate good value for money. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to maximize your experience with a local guide who can give you insider tips along the way.

Key Points

• Contrasting districts: Explore both the historic Old Tbilisi and the modern, upscale area.
• Cable car rides: Enjoy two scenic rides to peaks with wide-ranging views.
• Iconic landmarks: Visit Narikala Castle, Mother of Georgia, and Turtle Lake.
• Expert guides: Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Flexible options: Available as a private or small group tour.
• Affordable price: At about $36 per person, it offers good value considering the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Contrasts of Tbilisi

If you’re curious about what makes Tbilisi unique, this tour delivers a neat snapshot. The city is a blend of history and modernity, with lively streets, ancient structures, and new developments. The tour kicks off with a convenient pick-up at your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. From there, you’ll hop on two cable cars: the first takes you to the modern side of the city, where luxury apartments and lush parks set a tone of contemporary development. The second cable car ascends to Old Tbilisi, where narrow winding streets, historic buildings, and landmarks like Narikala Fortress reveal the city’s deep past.

The cable car rides are a highlight—each offers a different perspective. You’ll love the views from the peaks, sweeping across the cityscape. One reviewer notes, “The cable car rides offered incredible views,” and many appreciated the easy access to these high vantage points without much walking. The overall experience allows you to see both sides of Tbilisi in a short period, with the guide filling you in on the stories behind the sights.

Exploring the New City: Modern Tbilisi

The first stop at the newer part of town is just as fascinating as the old. Here, you’ll find luxury apartments, spacious parks, and a vibe that’s fresh and energetic. The guide will point out the architecture, explain how this district has developed, and share insights into the city’s growth. Many reviews praise guides like Mia, Irina, and George for their depth of local knowledge and their ability to make the tour engaging. One traveler shared, “Irina was very charming and knew a lot to tell us about Tbilisi,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Old Tbilisi: History and Landmarks

Descending into Old Tbilisi, the atmosphere shifts to charming, historic streets. Here, you’ll see landmarks like Narikala Castle, perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the city and river below. The Mother of Georgia statue stands as a symbol of the city’s warmth and resilience. As you walk through the ancient streets, expect to see colorful houses, cozy courtyards, and bustling markets. One review mentions that “Giorgi was very knowledgeable and friendly,” making the walk through Old Tbilisi both educational and enjoyable.

The Tbilisi Botanical Garden and Turtle Lake add natural beauty, and one reviewer pointed out finding turtles at the lake, which can be a hit with travelers wanting a relaxing break. The tour’s pace is designed to be accessible, with short walking segments, and the use of cable cars to reach higher vantage points.

The Experience and the Guides

A recurring theme in reviews is how guides elevate the experience. Whether it’s Mia, Nodar, George, or Irina, visitors consistently mention guides’ friendly demeanor, expertise, and ability to answer questions. One reviewer noted that their guide, Nodar, “tackled things such as brief history of places we walked through,” making the journey both informative and fun.

Many reviews also specify that guides are attentive to the needs of their group, making adjustments for comfort and interest. For example, “Nodar was very friendly, accommodating, and entertaining,” which shows how personalized the tour can feel. It’s this human element that keeps the tour engaging even for those who might not be big history buffs.

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The Cable Car Rides: Why They Matter

The two cable car rides are central to this tour’s appeal. They don’t just serve as transportation—they’re opportunities for breathtaking views and a fun experience. One reviewer describes the rides as “incredible,” and many mention how easy it was to access beautiful viewpoints without strenuous hikes. The cable cars are reliable, and the scenic ascent makes the steep parts of the city feel accessible.

The ride to Turtle Lake, in particular, offers a peaceful spot to relax after sightseeing. If you’re traveling during warm weather, the breeze and shade make it an ideal retreat.

Price and Value

At $36 per person, this tour is remarkably affordable given the amount of sightseeing, transportation, and guiding included. The ticket prices for the cable cars are covered, and the tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds convenience. For what you get—two cable car rides, a knowledgeable guide, and a comfortable pace—it’s a good value.

A common compliment from travelers is how guides enhance the experience—prompt, friendly, and full of local insights—so the price feels justified for the quality of service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without a lot of hassle. It’s also good for those who prefer guided tours to navigate logistics and get local insights. Because of the walking involved, it might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or very young children, though older kids comfortable with walking should manage fine. It’s a solid way to get a rundown of Tbilisi’s different faces—Old and New—in a manageable timeframe.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a balanced, well-organized way to explore Tbilisi’s top sights, this tour hits most marks. The scenic cable cars, combined with expert guides and a sense of the city’s dual personality, make for a memorable outing. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the included transportation and scenic experiences.

The only thing to keep in mind is that it involves some walking—roughly 2 miles—so if mobility is a concern, you might want to check if the tour can be adapted or consider other options.

This tour is a smart choice for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time, enjoy stunning views, and learn about Georgia’s capital from a friendly local. It’s especially recommended for those who value good guide service and want a mix of history, scenery, and culture in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle about 2 miles of walking and are interested in sightseeing. It’s best for kids comfortable with walking and riding cable cars.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on group size, pace, and whether you opt for a private or small group tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Since it involves some walking, good footwear is a plus.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the guide available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English, and there’s no mention of other language options, so it’s best to be comfortable with English or arrange a private guide if needed.

What if I have mobility issues?
This tour involves about 2 miles of walking and may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Can I customize the tour?
While primarily a set itinerary, private options may offer some flexibility. It’s best to check with the provider directly.

In the end, if you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and insightful way to see Tbilisi’s highlights, this tour won’t disappoint. It balances good value, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable views—perfect ingredients for a memorable day exploring Georgia’s lively capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: