Tbilisi: 3 Cable Cars Tour with Optional Lunch

Exploring Tbilisi through this cable car tour offers a refreshing way to see the city’s diverse skyline and historic landmarks. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting a clear, engaging overview of the city’s most iconic sights.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to ride three different cable cars—each offering unique perspectives—and the flexibility to extend your adventure with a local Georgian lunch. Plus, the comfortable transportation and guided insights make it feel well-organized and enjoyable. However, if you’re expecting a very deep dive into the city’s history or a packed itinerary, this might lean more toward a scenic overview rather than an exhaustive exploration.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate panoramic views and want to get a sense of Tbilisi’s layout without strenuous walking or long sightseeing queues. It’s particularly good for those who want a relaxed but immersive experience with some local flavor thrown in. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues, and young children under 14 are only allowed on private tours, so it’s better suited for adults or groups with older kids.

Key Points

• Three cable car rides provide a variety of panoramic views over Tbilisi’s skyline, parks, and landmarks.
• The main highlights include views of the Old Town, Bridge of Peace, Mother of Georgia, Mtatsminda Mountain, and Turtle Lake.
• Two options offer either a quick 3-hour overview or a more leisurely 5-hour experience with Georgian pastries, wine, and a sit-down lunch.
• The guide’s insights and private transportation help make this a smooth, engaging experience, especially for first-timers.
• Cost at $32 per person is quite reasonable considering the three cable car rides, guided tour, and optional lunch.
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or large luggage, and children under 14 only on private tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tbilisi Cable Cars Tour

This tour offers a neat way to see Tbilisi from multiple vantage points, making it ideal for travelers who love enjoying views without too much walking or complicated logistics. The fact that it includes three separate cable cars—from Rike Park to the Narikala Fortress, from Main Avenue to Mtatsminda Mountain, and from Turtle Lake to Vake District—means you’ll experience a variety of scenic angles, each revealing different facets of the city’s character.

Starting Point: Rike Park and Narikala Fortress

The tour kicks off at Rike Park, a modern and lively part of the city, perfectly situated by the Kura River. From here, you’ll hop on a cable car that glides over the river, offering a bird’s-eye view of the Old Town. The ride from Rike Park to the Narikala Fortress is short but striking—this is where you’ll get your first sweeping vistas of the historic heart of Tbilisi, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional rooftops.

The Narikala Fortress is a must-see, and from the cable car, you’ll get a feeling of the city’s ancient roots. The Mother of Georgia (Kartlis Deda) statue, standing tall nearby, is another highlight, and the guide will point out the significance of this iconic landmark.

The View from Mtatsminda Mountain

Next, the tour takes you on the newly built cable car from Main Avenue to Mtatsminda Mountain. This is often cited as a highlight—the ride itself feels modern and comfortable, providing a spectacular panoramic of the city sprawling below. From the top, you’ll see the Tbilisi TV Tower, Mtatsminda Park, and the ferris wheel — a scene that’s both lively and peaceful.

This part of the tour gives you a sense of the city’s urban layout and surrounding hills. Many reviews mention how the views are breathtaking, and the guides usually add context about Tbilisi’s geography and history, which is a bonus.

Turtle Lake and the Vake District

The final cable car segment is the Soviet-era lift from Turtle Lake down to the Vake District, one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Tbilisi. The views here are quite different—a mix of green parks, modern skyscrapers, and traditional apartment blocks. It’s a nice way to see the contrast between the old and new parts of the city in one ride.

This part of the tour is particularly appreciated by those interested in urban development and local life, since Vake is a hub for shopping, cafes, and leisure activities.

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The 3-Hour vs. 5-Hour Options

The shorter, 3-hour version is perfect if you want a quick, scenic overview of the city’s highlights. It sticks mainly to the cable car rides and vantage points, giving you a solid sense of Tbilisi’s layout and beauty.

If you have more time, the 5-hour option adds a delightful layer of cultural experience—a local Georgian pastry and wine tasting at a traditional spot. This makes the tour not just about views but also about tasting the local lifestyle. The included lunch with Georgian treats is highly praised, with travelers often mentioning how delicious and authentic it is.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t have to worry about logistics. The guide is an important part of the experience, with many reviewers complimenting guides like Georgi for their knowledge and English skills. The cable car tickets and transportation are all arranged, so it’s a hassle-free way to see the city from above.

You’ll also get a bottle of water during the tour, which is a thoughtful touch—especially if the weather is warm. The lunch option includes Georgian pastries and wine, making it a nice cultural treat, not just a meal.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

From real reviews, we see that this tour receives high praise for its stunning views and the expert guidance. Janet from Bulgaria called it a “great tour” and appreciated how the guide explained the city’s planning and beauty. She also highlighted Georgi’s excellent English skills, which makes the experience more engaging.

Many mention how the views from Mtatsminda Mountain are particularly breathtaking, offering a panoramic sweep of Tbilisi’s skyline and the surrounding hills. The cable cars, especially the Soviet-era one from Turtle Lake, provide a different perspective—showing both the natural landscape and the city’s modern development.

Pros and Cons

While the tour is mostly praised, some note that the 3-hour option doesn’t include lunch or much exploration beyond the viewpoints, so if you want a more relaxed, cultural experience, the 5-hour is better. Also, it’s important to note that mobility issues could pose a problem, as the tour involves multiple cable car rides and some walking. Children under 14 are only allowed on private tours, which is something to keep in mind if traveling with younger kids.

Analyzing the Value

At $32 per person, this tour offers great value considering the three cable car rides, guided commentary, and transportation. The optional lunch adds a cultural layer, making it a well-rounded experience. For travelers who want visual impressions of Tbilisi’s diverse neighborhoods and landmarks without a heavy itinerary, this is a good investment.

The fact that it’s private or small groups adds intimacy, allowing for more personalized insights and questions. Plus, the flexibility of cancelling up to 24 hours in advance makes it easier to plan without stress.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad, scenic introduction to Tbilisi’s highlights. It’s perfect if you prefer comfort and convenience, combining sightseeing with cultural tastes. It’s a particularly good pick for those who appreciate views, light walking, and local cuisine.

Travelers on a budget will find the price reasonable given the scope, but if you’re looking for an in-depth historical tour or nightlife experience, you might want to supplement this with other activities.

FAQs

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
This tour involves cable car rides and some walking, so it might not be suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 14 are only allowed on private tours, so if traveling with kids, you’ll want to book privately.

What’s included in the 3-hour version?
The 3-hour option includes the cable car rides, guided introduction to the highlights, and transportation, but no lunch or extended exploration.

How long does each cable car ride last?
Each ride is relatively quick, with the entire experience focusing on the views and landmarks seen from each vantage point.

Does the tour include entry to any landmarks?
The tour mainly focuses on the views from the cable cars and the external sights; it does not specify entry to sites like the Narikala Fortress or Holy Trinity Cathedral.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since you’ll be outside and in various locations.

Is the lunch included in the 3-hour tour?
No, the lunch is only part of the 5-hour experience. The shorter tour is more focused on sightseeing.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this a good way to see the city for the first time?
Absolutely. It provides a quick, scenic overview that helps orient you before exploring on your own or with additional tours.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 3 cable cars tour in Tbilisi offers a comprehensive, enjoyable way to see the city’s most memorable sights without overexerting yourself. The combination of stunning viewpoints, knowledgeable guides, and optional local treats makes it a well-balanced experience for travelers looking to maximize views and cultural flavor in a short time.

If you love spectacular vistas that let you appreciate Tbilisi’s unique blend of ancient and modern, and you’re happy with a somewhat relaxed pace, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable if you’re new to the city, craving an overview that’s both fun and informative.

For those who want more of Georgia’s culture, food, and local life, the longer option with lunch hits just the right note. Either way, it’s a memorable way to see a city that’s full of surprises, all from the comfort of a cable car.

You can check availability for your dates here: