Tbilisi: Alternative (All Inclusive) City Tour, Lunch & Wine

If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi and looking for a way to experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots, this All-Inclusive Alternative City Tour might just be what you’re after. It promises a full day of exploring hidden gems, local flavors, and stunning views, all guided by knowledgeable locals who know how to make the experience memorable.

What caught our eye about this tour? First, the blend of culture, food, and scenery sounds genuinely engaging, giving visitors a well-rounded taste of Tbilisi’s unique appeal. Second, it’s designed to be immersive and personal, with a small-group format that allows for more meaningful interactions and tailored insights. The main drawback? It’s quite packed—covering numerous stops in just about seven hours—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at each site, you might find it a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Tbilisi that goes beyond the typical sightseeing. Perfect for those eager to enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine, sample local wines, and see some of the city’s most intriguing spots with an expert guide. If you’re all about getting an insider’s perspective and making the most of a day in this vibrant city, this could be a top choice.

Key Points

• Diverse exploration covering iconic landmarks and lesser-known spots.
• Culinary focus with local food, wine, or beer tastings.
• Small group setting for more personalized attention.
• Expert guidance providing rich insights into Georgia’s culture.
• Efficient itinerary packed into around 7 hours.
• Accessible for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a pretty balanced package for those wanting to maximize a day in Tbilisi. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, and some delightful extras like a cup of freshly roasted coffee, local food tastings, and wine or beer. Plus, you get a ticket for the vintage cable car, which adds a fun element to the experience.

On the flip side, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget some extra for a sit-down meal or snacks during the day. Considering the value, the cost covers a guided, all-encompassing tour with a focus on authentic, off-the-beaten-path sites, making it a good deal if you want a hassle-free experience that hits all the highlights.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Let’s walk through what you’re likely to see and do on this tour. Each stop is thoughtfully selected to give you both a view of Tbilisi’s well-known sights and a peek into its lesser-known corners.

The Gardenia Shevardnadze

Starting with a photo stop at Gardenia Shevardnadze, you’ll get a chance to snap some shots of this lush park. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, and with guided commentary, you’ll learn about its significance in local life. According to reviews, visitors appreciated the professional guidance and the opportunity to take great pictures, which makes this spot a favorite.

The Chronicles of Georgia

Next, you’ll visit The Chronicle of Georgia, a massive sculpture depicting the nation’s history. This site is quite striking visually and offers a mix of photo opportunities and informative commentary. Some travelers, like Balthazar, mentioned that their guides took “amazing pictures” here, making it a highlight for capturing memories.

More Great Tours Nearby

Vake Park & Turtle Lake

The tour moves onto Vake Park, a popular relaxation spot, and then to Turtle Lake, where you can enjoy scenic views, perhaps even a ride on the cable car. The latter is a fun way to see the city from above, and many appreciate the chance to relax and take in the vistas. The Turtle Lake Ropeway and the Cable Car Upper Station are included, which means you’ll experience a bit of local transport that adds both fun and practicality.

Dry Bridge Flea Market & Dedaena Park

One of the more unique stops is the Dry Bridge Flea Market, where the treasure-hunter in you might find vintage jewelry, old books, or quirky souvenirs. Guided insights help you understand what makes each piece special. Then, a quick visit to Dedaena Park offers a bit of green space and local life, giving you a taste of everyday Tbilisi.

Aghmashenebeli Avenue & Fabrika Tbilisi

Your journey continues along Aghmashenebeli Avenue, a lively street lined with shops and cafes—perfect for soaking up local atmosphere. Then, you’ll explore Fabrika, a converted Soviet sewing factory now buzzing with art, cafes, and creative energy. Many reviews highlight that visitors loved seeing this hip, creative hub, and some even mentioned that guides provided rich context about its significance.

Highlights from the Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Balthazar shared that Nodar “made their last day in Tbilisi unforgettable” and even took some great photos. Similarly, GetYourGuide traveler described their guide Nodara as exceptional, noting the perfect organization and the variety of places visited, including delicious food and drinks.

The combination of stunning views, authentic food, and engaging storytelling really seems to resonate with participants. Many mention the quality of the wine and local cuisine, which makes the tasting segments a true highlight—this isn’t just a quick sip but a genuine introduction to Georgian flavors.

Practical Considerations

This tour is designed to be efficient—covering a lot in just 7 hours, including small group sizes, which helps keep it intimate and flexible. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to plan for a meal afterward or bring snacks. The pickup and drop-off are convenient, reducing hassle for travelers staying in central locations.

Comfortable shoes are advisable, given the walking involved, and weather-appropriate clothing will help you enjoy the outdoor stops, especially if it’s hot or rainy. Oversize luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travellers eager to see the local side of Tbilisi without the fuss of organizing multiple sights themselves. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate culinary experiences, scenic views, and learning about the city’s lesser-known stories. If you enjoy guided commentary and small-group settings, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile.

However, if you prefer a slow pace or want more time at each stop, consider whether this packed schedule will suit your travel style. For those with limited time in Tbilisi, wanting a well-rounded day, or simply looking for a fun, all-in-one package, this tour hits the spot.

FAQs

Does this tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll enjoy local food tastings and drinks, and there’s plenty of options nearby afterward.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, starting at a time you’ll check when booking. The itinerary is quite full, so expect a busy day.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, a small group option is available, making the experience more personal and flexible.

Are there any specific requirements?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Oversize luggage isn’t allowed, so plan accordingly.

What are some highlights I can look forward to?
Expect stunning views, guided insights into Georgia’s culture, a visit to unique sites like Fabrika, and delicious local wine and food tastings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Alternative Tbilisi City Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the city’s best-kept secrets and beloved landmarks all in one day. The combination of scenic spots, cultural insights, and local flavors seems to resonate well with travelers who enjoy a lively, authentic experience. The positive reviews highlight that knowledgeable guides and the quality of tastings make a big difference.

If you’re someone who likes to combine sightseeing with tasting local wine and food, and appreciate a bit of storytelling behind each site, this tour will likely make your Tbilisi visit really memorable. Its compact, thoughtfully curated itinerary makes it ideal for those wanting to make the most of limited time, but be prepared for a full, energetic day.

In all, this tour strikes a good balance—covering the city’s highlights while offering authentic tastes and personal insights. Whether it’s your first trip to Tbilisi or a return visit, you’ll walk away with new stories, great photos, and a deeper appreciation of Georgia’s vibrant culture.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: