Tbilisi: Private Old Town & Sololaki Walking Tour with Lunch

If you’re considering a way to get beneath the surface of Tbilisi’s captivating streets, this private Old Town & Sololaki walking tour with lunch offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and local flavor. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched extensively and talked to travelers who have—what I can say is that it looks like a well-rounded way to spend a full day in the Georgian capital.

One of the things I appreciate about this tour is its focus on walking through the city’s most atmospheric neighborhoods, like Sololaki and Betlemi, where you’ll see beautifully preserved art nouveau buildings and historic churches. I also love that it includes a lunch break—giving you the chance to enjoy authentic Georgian dishes in the heart of Old Town. On the downside, the tour’s 8-hour length might be a bit long for some, especially those with limited mobility or time. But overall, it seems best suited for travelers eager to explore Tbilisi in depth without the hassle of planning every step.

If you enjoy discovering a city on foot, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in local life, then this tour could be right up your alley. It’s tailored as a private experience, which means flexibility and personalized attention—perfect if you want a more intimate look at Tbilisi’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• In-depth exploration of Tbilisi’s Old Town, Sololaki, and Betlemi Quarter
• Panoramic views from Narikala Fortress and Mother of Georgia statue
• Authentic lunch options in traditional or modern Georgian restaurants
• Focus on architecture and history, with highlights like art nouveau buildings and centuries-old churches
• Comfortable walking, but expect cobblestones and hills
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour kicks off at Freedom Square, right in front of the Old City Hall building, marked by the iconic St. George statue. It’s a convenient starting point, especially if you arrive early and want to grab a coffee from nearby spots like Coffee LAB or Prosperos Books. The guide holding a small Tbilisi Walking Tour sign makes it easy to spot. Expect an informal, friendly start—after all, this is meant to feel like exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend.

Walking into the Heart of Old Town & Sololaki

Your first steps will take you through Sololaki, one of Tbilisi’s most picturesque neighborhoods. We loved the way the streets are lined with art nouveau buildings, balconies, and old doors, giving the area a charming, timeless feel. You’ll walk along Lermontov Street or Machabeli Street, both great for photos. Travelers have mentioned stopping at places like Gabriadze Café or catching a peek at Cafe Linville—perfect spots for a quick photo or a coffee break.

This area is full of spiritual and architectural highlights, like the House of Melik-Azaryants and the Blue Balcony House. The old courtyards and spiral staircases further add to the sense of discovering hidden corners in the city.

Visiting Betlemi Quarter and Its Churches

The Betlemi Quarter is one of the oldest parts of Tbilisi. Using the famous Betlemi stairs—some of the city’s oldest—you’ll ascend into this historic neighborhood. Here, the Upper and Lower Betlemi Churches are quiet spots packed with local history. A quick stop at the Leaning Clock Tower at Gabriadze Theater adds a whimsical touch to the day. Travelers have appreciated how these stops give a real sense of the city’s layered past.

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Lunch and Local Flavors

After a morning of walking, your guide will lead you to a local restaurant for lunch. You have three options: Culinarium Khasheria, Machakhela, or Racha Dukhan. Each offers a different taste of Georgian cuisine, from modern twists to home-style classics. People generally find the meal satisfying, with generous portions and authentic flavors—it’s a good way to recharge before hitting the afternoon’s highlights.

Exploring the Bazaar, Cathedrals, and Sulfur Baths

Post-lunch, you’ll stroll through Meidan Bazaar, renowned for souvenirs and wine tastings. If you’re into wine, this is a sweet bonus, as Georgia boasts a long tradition of winemaking. The Sioni Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is a major religious site with impressive architecture and history.

A highlight for many is the Abanotubani district, famous for its sulfur baths. You might find the Orbeliani Bathhouse, with its striking blue tiles, a great photo stop. While entry tickets aren’t included, just wandering around this area gives a good sense of local life and tradition.

Climbing to Narikala Fortress

The ascent to Narikala Fortress is steep but rewarding. The path behind the sulfur baths leads up to this ancient fortress, offering some of the best panoramic views over Tbilisi. Standing here, you’ll see the Mother of Georgia statue, a symbol of the city, and get a sweeping perspective of the city’s twists and turns. Several reviewers commented that the climb was worth it: “The views from Narikala are incredible, and it’s a must-do for first-time visitors,” one said.

Hidden Waterfalls and End of the Tour

After exploring Narikala, the descent takes you into the gorge, where a hidden waterfall awaits—an unexpected treat in the middle of the urban landscape. Ending at Shardeni Street, a lively area filled with cafés and wine bars, leaves you in a great spot to unwind or continue exploring independently.

The Tour’s Practical Details and Value

The price of $150 per person includes a full day of guided exploration, visits to key neighborhoods, and a traditional lunch. This seems reasonable considering the depth of experience and personalized nature of a private group. You won’t need to worry about entry tickets to most sites, as they aren’t included, but the focus is on the experience and the stories shared by your guide.

The 8-hour duration means you’ll want to be prepared for lots of walking—comfortable shoes are a must. The tour is available in multiple languages—English, Russian, and Georgian—and is ideal for those who enjoy wandering and learning in a flexible, intimate setting.

What We Appreciate

• The balance between walking and sightseeing—not too rushed, with ample time for photos and breaks
• The local lunch, offering a taste of Georgian hospitality and flavors
• The stunning views from Narikala and the Mother of Georgia statue, perfect for memorable photos
• The chance to explore less touristy corners of Tbilisi’s neighborhoods, like Betlemi and Sololaki
• The personalized experience of a private guide, customizing the day’s flow

Considerations

While the tour is packed with sights, it is quite comprehensive, which may be tiring for some, especially those with mobility issues or difficulty walking on cobblestones and hills. The steep climb up to Narikala is a highlight but requires some effort. Also, the tour doesn’t include tickets to specific attractions like the sulfur baths or botanical garden, which are optional add-ons.

Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an immersive, in-depth day exploring Tbilisi’s architecture, history, and views at their own pace. It’s ideal if you appreciate local architecture, historic churches, and panoramic cityscapes—all with the comfort of a private guide. If you’re visiting with a group or seeking a flexible, personalized experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s not suitable for those with walking limitations or young children, given the duration and terrain.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Private Old Town & Sololaki Walking Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded way to get to know Tbilisi beyond the usual sightseeing. You’ll walk through atmospheric streets, uncover hidden courtyards, and take in impressive views—all with the convenience of a private guide. The inclusion of a local meal makes it more than just a sightseeing walk; it’s a taste of Georgian life.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, immersive day that combines history, architecture, and scenic vistas, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some uphill climbs—and bring your camera and curiosity along.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily designed for adults and older children comfortable with several hours of walking on cobblestones and hills. It’s not specifically family-friendly, especially for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Since the tour covers outdoor areas, a sun hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended, especially in summer.

Are tickets included for attractions?
Most attractions like churches and the fortress do not require separate tickets, but tickets for sites like the botanical gardens or baths are not included if you wish to visit them independently.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from 10 am to 6 pm, giving you a full day’s worth of exploration and sightseeing.

Is the tour customizable?
Since it’s a private group, your guide can adapt the pace and focus based on your interests, within the framework of the scheduled highlights.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just eager to get a real feel for Tbilisi, this tour offers plenty of value. It balances guided insight with the freedom to explore, making for a memorable day in the Georgian capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: