Tbilisi: New Years village & Christmas Market Guided Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi around the holidays, you might have come across the New Years Village & Christmas Market Guided Tour. From what we’ve seen and heard, it offers a cozy taste of Georgian festive spirit, especially if you’re keen on experiencing local traditions, markets, and the lively holiday atmosphere.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances a relaxed, family-friendly vibe during the day with a more energetic, music-filled scene in the evenings. Plus, it’s set in some of the most picturesque spots in central Tbilisi, like Orbeliani Square and Dedaena Park. However, one thing to keep in mind is that if you’re after a highly structured or exclusive experience, this tour’s casual, open-market feel might not be for you.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy wandering through markets, snapping festive photos, and soaking up local holiday cheer without feeling rushed. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, if you want a laid-back way to see the city decorated for Christmas and New Year, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: A lively holiday hub with lights, markets, and entertainment.
• Family-Friendly: Offers activities like Santa’s house, elves workshops, and photo zones.
• Evening Vibe: Transforms into a lively scene with live music, DJ sets, and concerts.
• Local Support: The market stalls promote small local entrepreneurs and handmade crafts.
• Flexible & Accessible: Free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Ideal Duration: A 3-hour tour that fits well into a day of sightseeing or shopping.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour Really About?

Imagine strolling through central Tbilisi, where festive lights illuminate the city’s main squares and streets. This is the core of what this tour offers — a chance to see the city transformed into a winter wonderland. The tour usually starts in mid-December and runs until early January, aligning with Georgia’s Christmas celebrations, which are on January 7th.

Set up in key spots like Orbeliani Square, April 9 Garden, and Dedaena Park, the holiday village is a hub of activity. As you walk through, you’ll find market stalls packed with seasonal treats, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. These are small businesses supporting local artisans, so shopping here feels meaningful. Plus, there’s the chance to warm up with hot drinks as you browse.

The Market & Craft Stalls

The market area is central to the experience. It’s not a huge fairground but more of a cozy collection of stalls that bring the holiday spirit alive. You’ll see handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and gifts — perfect for picking up souvenirs or just enjoying some local flavors.

Many reviews highlight the charm of the market, with Jihad from Saudi Arabia mentioning how the guide made the walk feel like a local walking with a friend, rather than a typical tour. That personal touch seems to be a hallmark here.

You might find delicious seasonal snacks or warm drinks that are good for chilly days. The small market doesn’t just serve as a shopping stop; it enhances the festive feeling, making the experience genuinely immersive.

Kid-Friendly Elements & Family Vibe

If you’re traveling with children, you’ll appreciate the Santa’s house, elves workshops, and photo zones. These features make the tour accessible and fun for families, especially during the day when the atmosphere stays relaxed and cheerful.

However, as the evening gets lively with live music, DJ sets, and concerts, the vibe becomes more energetic and might be less suited for very young kids wanting quiet time.

Gustavo from Mexico commented on how well the guide, Alex, knew the streets and the history of Tbilisi, making the walk engaging for all ages. That local knowledge adds depth and makes the tour more than just a stroll through lights.

The Evening Scene & Live Entertainment

Come evening, the holiday lights really come alive. The tour’s atmosphere shifts from family-friendly to more festive and lively, with live music and concerts. This is when the vibrant side of Tbilisi’s holiday celebrations shines through.

The lighting displays across Rustaveli Avenue, Atoneli Street, and the squares help create a magical setting. Some evenings, there’s also a small ice rink — a classic winter touch — though it’s not explicitly detailed if this is always part of the tour or a nearby attraction.

The music, DJ sets, and general buzz mean you’ll experience a more energetic, party-like vibe if you stay longer or visit in the evening.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details & What To Expect

This is a 3-hour tour with a flexible start time, which makes it easy to incorporate into your day. It’s led by a live guide speaking English, Russian, or Georgian, adding a personal touch and local insight.

Cost-wise, it’s designed to be accessible, especially with the option to reserve now and pay later and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. For the price, you get a guided walk through some of Tbilisi’s most iconic holiday spots, plus the chance to see the city in full festive swing.

The group size isn’t specified explicitly but mentions options for private groups, making it adaptable whether you’re solo, a couple, or a small family.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The reviews are promising, with both reviewers giving a perfect 5-star rating. Jihad’s comment about feeling like walking with a local suggests the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Gustavo appreciated how well Alex knew the streets and history, making the tour not only fun but educational.

Both reviewers highlight how the experience is authentic and engaging, rather than a scripted, impersonal tour. This tells us that if you’re looking for a relaxed, genuine taste of Tbilisi’s holiday spirit, this tour might be just right.

The Value of the Experience

When considering the price, think about what you’re getting: a guided walk through beautifully decorated streets, access to markets promoting local entrepreneurs, festive photo opportunities, and lively evening entertainment. It’s a well-rounded way to soak in the holiday atmosphere without any rush.

The fact that it supports local small businesses and provides a local guide adds to its appeal, especially if you’re interested in more than just sightseeing — you want to feel connected to the city’s traditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who enjoy casual walks, festive markets, and a vibrant holiday scene. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Tbilisi decorated, enjoy local treats, and experience the city’s energy — especially in the evenings when the lights and music come alive.

For families or groups wanting a relaxed day out with some holiday cheer, it’s ideal. If you’re after a more structured or exclusive tour, or prefer a quiet winter walk, this might feel a bit lively.

Final Thoughts

This New Years Village & Christmas Market Guided Tour offers a warm, friendly way to celebrate the holiday season in Tbilisi. It combines the charm of local markets, festive lighting, and live entertainment in a way that feels accessible and authentic. The reviews suggest guides are engaging and knowledgeable, making the walk more than just sightseeing — it’s about experiencing the city’s holiday spirit firsthand.

While it’s not an overly polished or exclusive experience, that’s actually part of its charm. It’s perfect for those who want a laid-back, genuine, and festive introduction to Georgia’s capital during the holidays.

If you’re looking for a cozy, vibrant way to enjoy Tbilisi’s Christmas celebrations, this tour is worth considering. Just be ready for a lively atmosphere in the evening and a warm welcome at every turn.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, during the daytime it’s quite family-friendly with Santa’s house, elf workshops, and photo zones. However, in the evenings, the lively music and concerts may be less suitable for very young children.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, making it a nice short activity that can fit into a day of sightseeing or shopping.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers walking through the holiday village, exploring markets, enjoying decorations, and experiencing the festive atmosphere. Guided commentary is provided in English, Russian, or Georgian.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a private group option?
Yes, private groups are available for a more personalized experience.

When does the Christmas Village typically open?
It usually opens in mid-December and stays open until early January, aligning with Georgia’s Christmas celebrations on January 7th.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which helps if you’re still finalizing your plans.

If soaking up Tbilisi’s holiday charm sounds appealing, this tour offers a cozy, authentic way to do it. Just bring your holiday spirit and a camera — you’ll leave with plenty of festive memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: