Old Tbilisi Highlights walking tour with wine & 10 tastings

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi and want to get a real feel for what makes this city so special, this Old Tbilisi Highlights walking tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s highly rated, affordable, and packed with highlights that cover the city’s history, architecture, and flavors—all in about four hours.

What we love about this tour? First, its balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting experiences—you get to see the city’s best-known landmarks and then indulge in local wines and foods. Second, the excellent guides seem to make all the difference, blending knowledge with friendly storytelling that makes the city’s history come alive. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour might be a little fast-paced for those wanting a super relaxed experience, especially if you’re a slow explorer.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown without shelling out a lot of money. It’s also great if you’re interested in Georgian cuisine, wine, or simply want a guided walk with local insights. While it’s not specifically tailored for families, older children and teens who enjoy history and food might enjoy it too. Let’s take a closer look at what this tour involves.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $15 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included tastings.
• Focus on Landmarks & Culture: You’ll visit iconic sights like Narikala Fortress, the Peace Bridge, and the oldest church in Tbilisi.
• Wine & Food Tastings: The tour includes a curated experience of Georgian wines and local street foods, making it both educational and delicious.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides lead you through the city, sharing stories and recommendations.
• Comfortable Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a personal touch and plenty of interaction.
• Flexible & Convenient: The tour starts centrally and includes mobile tickets, so planning is straightforward.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Narikala Fortress

The tour kicks off at the famous Narikala Fortress, offering some of the best views of Tbilisi. The guide will share stories about its history and strategic importance, all while you soak in panoramic cityscapes. We loved how this spot sets the tone—mixing history with incredible scenery. The best part? It’s free to go up here, so the views are a bonus, no extra cost.

Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

Next, you stroll down to the Gabriadze Puppet Theater. This place is full of charm, with handcrafted details that the guide will point out, giving you insights into Georgian arts and culture. If you’re a fan of quirky architecture and local craftsmanship, this stop is a highlight.

The Bridge of Peace

A modern marvel, the Bridge of Peace is a must-see photo spot and one of the most photographed landmarks in Tbilisi. The sleek design and glass panels make for a striking contrast against the old city architecture. Spend a few minutes here soaking in the vibe and taking pictures.

Dzveli Tbilisi Sulphur Waterfall

On a warm day, visiting the Sulphur Waterfall in the Fig Gorge is refreshing. It’s a short walk, but it offers a lovely natural break. The cold waterfall provides a stark contrast to the city’s warm streets and offers a peaceful spot to relax.

Anchiskhati Basilica

This ancient church is a quiet, spiritual place and the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi. The faded frescoes and centuries-old stones make it a meaningful stop. It’s a good introduction to Georgian religious architecture and history.

Aerial Tramway (Optional)

If the weather permits, you can take a quick ride on the Aerial Tramway to the Narikala Fortress, adding a bit of fun to your visit. Note that the tram ticket isn’t included, but it’s a popular optional add-on if you want a different perspective of the city.

Wine Tasting in Jan Shardeni Street

One of the tour’s highlights is the wine tasting session. You’ll visit a local wine shop in the vibrant Jan Shardeni Street, where you’ll sample authentic Georgian wines. The reviews rave about the quality and ambiance here, making it a perfect way to unwind and enjoy local flavors. Expect knowledgeable staff guiding you through different varieties.

Georgian Street Food on Sioni Street

Later, you visit a bakery to sample traditional street foods like khachapuri (cheese bread), lobiani (bean-filled bread), and sweet pastries. It’s a chance to taste authentic flavors and see how locals enjoy their everyday meals. The bakery stop is included in the tour price, and many reviewers say the food is “amazing” and a highlight.

End Point: Liberty Square

The tour concludes at Liberty Square, close to public transportation options, making it a convenient finish point. You’ll leave with a good sense of the city’s layout, a satisfied palate from the tastings, and a handful of tips from your guide for further exploration.

What Travelers Are Saying

People consistently praise the expertise of guides like Luka, George, and Levan, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. They often highlight how the guides managed to make history informative without it feeling dull, adding humor and personalized recommendations along the way. One reviewer said, “George, our guide, was very knowledgeable and accommodating,” and another noted, “Luka was an excellent guide showing many interesting Tbilisi spots.”

The wine tasting gets special mention, with many describing it as “superb” and a great way to enjoy Georgian hospitality. The bakery visit also earns high marks for authenticity and deliciousness.

Several reviews mention how the tour is a great introduction to the city—covering many key sights efficiently and at a very reasonable price. It’s clear that most participants find the experience well worth the money, especially when you consider the included tastings and expert guidance.

What Could Be Better?

While the overall experience is highly rated, a few travelers noted that on windy days, certain activities like the cable car ride might be canceled or limited. Also, since the tour is quite packed with stops, it might feel rushed if you prefer a slower pace or want to linger longer at each site.

Practical Details

The tour costs just $15 per person, which is remarkable value given the comprehensive experience—covering landmarks, tastings, and guided insights. It lasts about four hours, making it suitable for a morning or afternoon activity, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Start points are centrally located, and the tour is designed with convenience in mind, with mobile tickets and group discounts available. The maximum group size is 15, ensuring enough personal attention from your guide.

Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, although the tour involves some walking and tasting, so it’s best suited for older kids and teenagers interested in history and food.

Cancellation & Booking

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you peace of mind if your plans change. Confirmations are immediate, so you won’t have to wait or worry about last-minute surprises.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This walking tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Tbilisi who want to see the city’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a great introduction for those interested in Georgian wine and cuisine, as the tastings are genuinely enjoyable and well-curated.

Travelers who appreciate a good guide can expect stories, tips, and a friendly vibe that makes exploring the city more engaging. While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older kids with an interest in history and food could enjoy it too.

If you’re on a budget but want a rich experience that mixes sightseeing with culture and flavor, this tour hits all the right notes. Keep in mind that if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace or want to explore some sites in more depth, you might want to consider adding extra time or choosing other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome if they are accompanied by an adult. However, since the tour involves some walking and tastings, it’s best suited for older kids who can engage with the sites and enjoy the food.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes visits to key landmarks like Narikala Fortress, the Peace Bridge, and Anchiskhati Basilica, as well as tastings of Georgian wine, street food like khachapuri, and a bakery visit.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately four hours, giving you a good overview without it being too tiring.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at a central meeting point in Tbilisi and concludes near Liberty Square, with easy access to public transport.

Is transportation included?
No, but the sites are within walking distance, and optional cable car rides are available but not included.

Is the tour good value for money?
Absolutely. For just $15, you get a guided walk, several tastings, and a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi, based on overwhelmingly positive reviews.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Tbilisi and want a friendly, affordable way to get acquainted with the city’s highlights, this Old Tbilisi Highlights walking tour with wine and tastings is a solid choice. It offers a nicely balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and local flavors, all led by knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely invested in making your experience memorable.

The included tastings—especially the Georgian wine—are one of the tour’s strongest points, allowing you to sample authentic flavors in a relaxed setting. Plus, the walk through the old town gives you a chance to get your bearings and decide what to explore further later.

While it might not be the best option if you prefer a very slow, in-depth visit to each site, it’s perfect if you want to tick the main boxes efficiently and enjoy some delicious local treats along the way. Overall, a highly recommended experience for first-time visitors who want to soak in Tbilisi’s charm without breaking the bank.