Tbilisi Walking Tour with Cable Car, Wine Tasting & Bread Bite

Discover Tbilisi Through a Walk, Cable Car Ride, and Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia’s lively capital, Tbilisi, and want a well-rounded introduction to its sights, this Tbilisi Walking Tour with Cable Car, Wine Tasting & Bread Bite is worth considering. It promises a private, personalized experience that hits several key highlights in about four hours. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of scenic views, or a wine enthusiast, this tour has something for you.

What really caught our eye is how it combines cultural sites with breathtaking panoramas and local flavors. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you get the attention of a knowledgeable guide, which makes all the difference when exploring a city like Tbilisi. On the downside, the tour involves quite a bit of walking on uneven terrain and stairs—so comfortable shoes are a must.

In short, this tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed way to get to know Tbilisi’s core. If you enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, and tasting local wines, you’ll likely find this experience both enjoyable and worthwhile.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: It’s a private tour, so you get tailored insights from your guide.
• Comfort & Convenience: Travel in an AC vehicle, with pickup options included.
• Rich in Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Metekhi Cathedral, Narikala Fortress, and the Mother of Kartli Monument.
• Scenic Views & Unique Experiences: Take a cable car for panoramic cityscapes and explore thermal waters and waterfalls.
• Taste Georgia’s Famous Wines: Sample local wines at no extra charge, adding a flavorful touch to your trip.
• Suitable for Most Travelers: Most people can participate, but be prepared for walking on varied terrain.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting in Old Town Tbilisi

The journey begins in Old Town, the historic heart of Tbilisi. This area is a tapestry of architectural styles—medieval buildings, neoclassical facades, Art Nouveau, and modern structures—all reflecting the city’s diverse past. Walking here, you’ll get a real sense of how Tbilisi has been a crossroads of Europe and Asia for centuries.

The charm of Old Town lies in its blend of narrow, winding streets and lively squares. It’s a place where history feels alive, with cafes, shops, and local life all buzzing around you. You’ll be walking on cobblestones, so comfortable shoes are crucial.

Exploring the Metekhi Cathedral

Next, the tour takes you to the Metekhi Cathedral, a site with deep roots dating back to the 13th century, built by King Demetrius II. Its position atop a hill offers stunning views over the Kura River and the city. The church has faced damage and restoration over centuries, but its commanding location makes it a must-see.

A notable feature here is the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, placed nearby in 1961. The cathedral’s history as both a religious site and a place of political importance gives it a layered feel—something that guides often highlight during visits.

Cable Car Ride to Mother of Kartli

One of the tour’s highlights is the cable car ride up to the Mother of Kartli Monument. Erected in 1958, this 20-meter metallic figure of a woman in traditional dress is striking and deeply symbolic. She holds a bowl of wine in her left hand—welcoming friends—and a sword in her right, ready for enemies.

The ride itself offers panoramic views of Tbilisi, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s layout and architecture. It’s a great way to combine transport with sightseeing, and many reviews mention how breathtaking the vistas are at this point.

Narikala Fortress – An Iconic Landmark

From the top of the cable car, you’ll explore Narikala Fortress, originally built in the 4th century. The fortress has seen many battles and rulers—expanding under King David the Builder and suffering damage from earthquakes in the 19th century.

Walking through its ancient walls, you can imagine its strategic importance centuries ago. The views over Tbilisi from here are stunning, especially as the city sprawls out beneath you. It’s a good spot to soak in the history and snap memorable photos.

Thermal Waters and Waterfalls

After Narikala, the tour shifts a bit to relax and enjoy Georgia’s natural thermal springs. The Sulfur Baths in Leghvtakhevi are famous for their healing properties—they’re warm, sulfur-rich, and historically used for skin and joint issues. You might find these baths more about visual appreciation unless you’re prepared to indulge in a soak.

Nearby, the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall flows down from a nearby botanical garden, offering a peaceful pause amid your explorations. These sites add a natural touch to your city tour, and the waterfall especially provides a calming backdrop.

Visiting Historic Churches & the Iconic Bridge

The tour includes stops at Jvaris Mama—a historic church built in the 5th century, famous for its connection with St. Nino—and the Sioni Cathedral, the main Georgian Orthodox church with roots in the 6th century. Both buildings have been reconstructed several times but still hold significant spiritual and cultural value.

Finally, you’ll walk over the Bridge of Peace, a modern, wave-shaped structure designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi. Opened in 2010, it’s a favorite for photos and adds a contemporary contrast to the ancient city.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater & Other Unique Stops

A quirky highlight is the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, with its famous clock tower that puts on a charming show at each hour—animated figures and bells create a little theatrical spectacle. The story of the theater’s founder and the clock’s moving puppet figures add a whimsical touch to your day.

The last stop is at the Anchiskhati Basilica, Georgia’s oldest surviving church. Its simple but historic architecture and centuries-old icons make it a peaceful place to reflect before concluding your tour.

The Practicalities

This tour lasts roughly four hours, which is a good chunk of time to see the main sights without feeling rushed. It’s a private experience, so you won’t be sharing the guide with strangers—ideal if you prefer a more flexible schedule or personalized insights.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes moving between sites comfortable. The tour includes pickup options—making it easier to start your day or afternoon.

The cost is $77.50 per person, representing solid value considering the private setting, transportation, and included cable car and wine tasting. The wine sampling is a highlight for many; Georgia’s wines are renowned, and you get to taste local varieties without extra charges.

What the Reviews Say

Echoing what we’ve seen elsewhere, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views from the cable car and fortress. One reviewer raved, “the route was amazing and gave a great overview of Tbilisi,” and mentioned that the guide was “beyond exceptional.”

Another comment noted the “excellent wine selection,” which adds a flavorful, relaxed element to the tour, especially after a morning of sightseeing. The variety of sites—covering religious, historical, and natural highlights—means you get a comprehensive feel of Tbilisi’s essence.

On the downside, the tour involves quite a bit of walking and uneven terrain, especially around the fortress and old town streets. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for those who want an all-in-one introduction to Tbilisi—covering key landmarks, scenic views, and tasting local wine—without sacrificing comfort. It suits travelers who appreciate history, culture, and a bit of natural beauty with their sightseeing.

It’s also great if you prefer a private, flexible tour rather than a big group—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who like the personal touch. If your time in Tbilisi is limited, this tour condenses many of the city’s top sights into a manageable four hours.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Tbilisi tour offers a nice balance between sightseeing, scenic beauty, and local flavor. The inclusion of a cable car to the Mother of Kartli monument provides fantastic views, while visiting iconic religious sites and the fortress grounds gives you a sense of the city’s history. The wine tasting adds a relaxed, cultural element that many travelers will enjoy.

The tour’s private setting means you’ll get personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and explore at your own pace. The price reflects good value for a full four-hour experience with transportation, admission fees, and tastings included.

If you’re looking to get a comprehensive yet relaxed feel for Tbilisi—especially if you love history, views, and a bit of local indulgence—this could be a great choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking on cobblestones and stairs.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is a private experience. Only your group will participate, which allows for more personalized attention and flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup options available.

What are the main sights visited?
Highlights include Old Town Tbilisi, Metekhi Cathedral, the cable car to Mother of Kartli, Narikala Fortress, sulfur baths, waterfalls, and historic churches like Jvaris Mama and Sioni Cathedral.

Is there any physical exertion involved?
Yes, there will be walking on uneven terrain, stairs, and some inclines, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What does the wine tasting involve?
You’ll sample Georgian wine at no extra cost—an excellent chance to try local varieties.

Can children participate?
The tour is most suitable for most travelers, but note that walking on cobblestones and stairs may be challenging for very young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Modest dress is recommended for visiting religious sites—scarves and dresses can be provided if needed.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are not refundable.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Since it involves walking and some stairs, it may not be ideal for travelers with limited mobility.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tbilisi, perfect for travelers wanting to see the city’s highlights comfortably and enjoy some of Georgia’s renowned hospitality.