Old Town Tbilisi: Walking Tour & Wine Tasting with a Local Guide

Picture wandering through a city where history, culture, and lively local traditions blend seamlessly. That’s exactly what this Old Town Tbilisi tour promises. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another look, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s capital — from ancient churches and modern landmarks to a tasty bakery stop and a glass of local wine.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love how the guides bring the city’s stories to life with insider knowledge and personable storytelling. Second, the wine tasting is a genuine highlight, giving you a taste of Georgia’s longstanding tradition as the birthplace of wine.

A small consideration? The tour’s duration is just over three hours, so if you’re keen on a more leisurely or in-depth exploration, you might want to add extra time afterward. Still, for most travelers looking for an engaging snapshot of Tbilisi, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy walking, historical sights, and authentic local experiences.

If you’re after a guided introduction to Tbilisi’s key highlights, love discovering local cuisines, and want to get a sense of Georgia’s vibrant culture—all without breaking the bank—this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $19, this tour offers great value, especially considering the wine tasting and guided insights.
• Authentic Local Experience: Guides are locals who share stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
• Diverse Highlights: From ancient churches to modern bridges, you get a comprehensive look at the city.
• Tasty Stops: The bakery visit introduces you to Georgian flavors, and wine tasting highlights Georgia’s wine heritage.
• Concise Duration: Just over three hours, making it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 15 people, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Strong at Sculpture Group Berikaoba

We loved how the tour kicks off near the Dry Bridge, with the lively sculpture group called Berikaoba. These expressive figures capture the festive spirit of Georgian festivals and their rebellious, joyful energy. It’s a fun way to start, setting the tone for a city full of stories. The best part? It’s a free sight, so you get an instant feel for Tbilisi’s lively arts scene without any extra cost.

Exploring the Oldest Church: Anchiskhati Basilica

From there, your guide will lead you to Anchiskhati Basilica, dating back to the 6th century. Standing inside or just outside this ancient building, you can’t help but feel connected to Georgia’s spiritual roots. The church’s simple yet historic charm makes it a standout stop. As one reviewer put it, the historical background offered really enhanced the experience, adding layers of meaning to the visit.

The Bridge of Peace

Next up is the Bridge of Peace, a modern marvel made of glass and steel. Sitting over the Mtkvari River, the bridge’s sleek, bow-shaped design is a favorite among visitors. It’s a stellar photo op, and many find it interesting how this contemporary piece contrasts with Tbilisi’s older architecture. The bridge also symbolizes the city’s openness to the future while respecting its past.

Shardeni Street and Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater

Walking along Shardeni Street, you’ll experience a lively, bohemian vibe filled with cafes and shops. It’s a small, charming street that encapsulates Tbilisi’s artistic soul. Nearby, the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater with its whimsical clock tower is a highlight. The guide explains its cultural significance, and the architecture alone makes it worth the stop. It’s a quirky spot that hints at Tbilisi’s love for art and storytelling.

Sioni Cathedral and the Tamada Statue

The Sioni Cathedral is a peaceful, historic space with impressive bell towers. It’s a reminder of Georgia’s religious heritage. Close by, the Tamada Statue celebrates Georgian wine culture — a bronze sculpture of a traditional toastmaster holding a wine horn. This statue, inspired by a 2,000-year-old figurine, captures the importance of wine and toasting in Georgian social life, according to the tour guide.

European Aspirations and the Great Synagogue

Moving to Europe Square, you’ll notice the EU flags fluttering in the wind — a subtle but powerful symbol of Georgia’s aspirations for closer ties with Europe. Then, the Great Synagogue stands as a testament to Georgia’s diverse religious history, built between 1895 and 1903 by Georgian Jews.

The Tree of Life and Cable Car Ride

The Tree of Life sculpture by artist David Monavardishvili is an artistic expression of Tbilisi’s spirit, and the guide shares insights into what inspired it. It’s a quick stop but one with a lot of character.

Afterward, you’ll hop on a cable car from Rike Park to Mount Mtatsminda, offering panoramic views of the city. While the cable car ride isn’t included in the tour price, it’s well worth the small additional cost for the breathtaking vistas.

Kartlis Deda and the City Panorama

Finally, the Mother of Georgia monument gazes down over the city. It’s an iconic symbol representing the strength and hospitality of the Georgian people. From here, you’ll head to the end point at Freedom Square, the heart of Tbilisi.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers guidance from knowledgeable local guides, which really enhances the experience. The wine tasting is a notable highlight, providing a genuine taste of Georgia’s famous wine-making tradition. Plus, the cable car ride offers unbeatable views of the city—an added bonus if you’re into scenic panoramas.

On the flip side, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll stop at a traditional bakery where you can grab a snack for roughly 2-3 euros. This is perfect for those wanting a quick, authentic bite without extra fuss. Also, the cable car isn’t part of the main price, but it’s a small extra you’ll likely want to include for the full experience.

The Value

At only $19 per person, this tour really punches above its weight. You get a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi’s history, culture, and cuisine without overspending. The reviews back this up, with many mentioning how the guides’ storytelling and insider tips made the trip special.

The Group and Duration

With a max of 15 travelers, it’s a cozy setting that allows the guides to connect with everyone. The duration of just over three hours makes it manageable for most without feeling rushed—perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a guided walk that combines history, culture, and local flavors, you’ll find this tour very satisfying. It’s ideal for travelers who like learning on the go and want to see both historic sights and modern symbols of Tbilisi.

Wine lovers will especially enjoy the tasting, while those interested in architecture and religion will find plenty to admire. The tour is suitable for most people, as long as you’re comfortable walking for a few hours and following a scheduled pace.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children? This tour is generally aimed at adult travelers, especially considering the wine tasting is for those 18 and older. However, older children who aren’t drinking might enjoy the sightseeing and storytelling.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including stops and short breaks.

What’s the price? At $19 per person, it’s a very affordable way to see many of Tbilisi’s highlights with a guided local.

Are meals included? No, but there’s a stop at a traditional bakery where you can buy a snack for around 2-3 euros.

Does the tour include transportation? The main tour is walking-based, but the cable car ride to Mtatsminda is an optional extra.

What’s the meeting point? The tour starts at 17 Ioane Shavteli Street and ends at Freedom Square.

Are there any dress codes for religious sites? Yes, churches have a dress code, and taking pictures inside may not be allowed, so dress modestly.

Can service animals join? Yes, service animals are permitted.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Old Town Tbilisi walking tour with wine tasting offers a well-balanced look at the city’s essentials. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience that’s both informative and easygoing, with a little taste of Georgia’s famed wine culture thrown in.

The combination of historic sights, local stories, and authentic flavors makes it a memorable way to get acquainted with Tbilisi. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a manageable, affordable introduction to the city’s charm without sacrificing depth or personality.

If you enjoy storytelling, culture, and a chance to sample local wine in a friendly group, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for some walking, and if you’re a true foodie or history buff, consider extending your stay to explore even more on your own.

This tour is a great starting point for getting a genuine feel of Tbilisi—its past, present, and people.