Tbilisi: Old&New City Guided Tour w/ 13 Tastings & Cable car

Exploring Tbilisi: A Tour That Combines Food, Culture, and Stunning Views

If you’re considering a way to truly get under the skin of Tbilisi, this Old&New City Guided Tour with 13 Tastings and a Cable Car might be just what you need. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s a carefully curated experience that promises not just sightseeing but a flavorful journey through Georgia’s culinary traditions.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the balance of scenic exploration and authentic tastings really appeals. We love that it includes visits to both iconic landmarks and hidden corners of the city, providing a well-rounded picture of Tbilisi’s charm. Plus, the wine and spirits tastings—especially the limited-edition selections—add a special touch that speaks to Georgia’s celebrated winemaking heritage.

However, for those who prefer a super leisurely pace or are traveling with young kids, there’s a consideration to keep in mind. The tour involves roughly 2 to 3 miles of walking, which can be tiring for some. Also, it’s designed more for adults and older kids, as children under 12 are only allowed on private tours.

This experience seems best suited for food lovers, history buffs, and anyone eager to enjoy a taste of Georgia with a side of scenic views. If you’re after a lively, flavorful introduction to Tbilisi’s highlights, it’s likely to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Georgia Cuisine: With 13 tastings, you’ll sample everything from khinkali dumplings to local wines and spirits.
• Beautiful City Views: The tour includes stops at iconic landmarks like The Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, and Kartlis Deda, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Cultural Insights: Your guide will share stories and insights about the city’s history and culinary traditions.
• Scenic Transportation: Included cable car tickets add a different perspective to the city’s landscape.
• Flexible Timing: The tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours, with start times to check depending on availability.
• Small Group Experience: Whether private or in a small group, the experience feels personalized and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into Tbilisi’s Culinary and Cultural Scene

This tour offers more than just a checklist of sights—it’s a way to truly feel the pulse of Tbilisi. We’ll walk through both the bustling old town and the more modern, alternative neighborhoods, discovering contrasts and hidden gems that you might miss on your own. The route is thoughtfully designed to maximize scenic views, local flavor, and cultural insights.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Encounter

Starting Point and Market Visits: The tour kicks off with hotel pickup and a visit to Dry Bridge Market, a lively arts, crafts, and antiques market. It’s a great spot to snap some photos, soak in the local atmosphere, and see how Georgian artisans display their crafts. It’s also a guided stop—so you’ll get stories about the market’s history and its role in city life.

Food Tastings and Food Markets: As you wander, expect to indulge in a variety of regional foods. The tastings include classic khinkali—those juicy, hand-rolled dumplings filled with beef, mushrooms, or cheese—as well as local lemonade, sweet treats like churchkhela (candle-shaped candies made with nuts and grape juice), and regional sauces like Tkemali and Ajika. These bites give a real flavor of Georgia’s culinary soul.

Photo Stops and Landmarks: Throughout the tour, you’ll pause at must-see spots like The Bridge of Peace, Rike Park, and the famous Kartlis Deda, a towering figure representing Georgia’s hospitality and independence. These stops aren’t just for photos—they’re moments to appreciate the city’s blend of history and modern vibrancy.

Wine and Spirit Tastings: The highlight for many is the visit to a renowned wine bar, where you can sample limited-edition Georgian wines, including Qvevri wines—a traditional method using clay vessels buried underground. Plus, there’s tastings of local spirits like Chacha and liqueurs like Muscat, giving you a genuine taste of Georgia’s famed beverage culture.

Cable Car Ride: Included in your ticket is a cable car ride, offering sweeping views of Tbilisi’s rooftops, mountains, and river below. It’s a fun, quick way to see the city from above and adds a bit of adventure to the experience.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guide, with Andrea saying, “Great tour with Georgi! Highly recommended.” Marianna found it “very interesting, engaging, and informative,” and Michael calls it “the most delicious, enjoyable, and informative tour” he’s ever taken in a city. These comments underscore the value of having a personable guide who can share stories and details that bring the city to life.

The Food and Drink Experience

The 13 tastings included in the tour are well-curated, from savory khinkali to sweet churchkhela and regional sauces. The wines and spirits are a major highlight, especially the limited-edition Georgian wines, which aren’t always easy to find elsewhere. Tour participants note that the wine bar visit provides a real insight into local winemaking traditions, and the various tastings are balanced to give you a comprehensive picture of Georgian flavors.

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The Practical Side: Duration, Group Size, and Cost

This tour is designed to last between 3 and 5 hours, depending on your pace and interest. The flexible start times mean you can fit it into your schedule. Small groups or private tours are available, making it more intimate and tailored if you prefer. The price—covering hotel pickup and drop-off, all tastings, and tickets for the cable car—offers good value for a comprehensive half-day experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for foodies, cultural explorers, and those wanting a structured, engaging way to see Tbilisi. Travelers who enjoy sampling local dishes and wines will find this tour particularly rewarding. Keep in mind that it involves a fair amount of walking—about 2-3 miles—so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s less suited for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that captures the essence of Tbilisi’s food, culture, and scenery. The combination of authentic tastings, must-see landmarks, and scenic views makes it ideal for those who want to go beyond the typical sightseeing route and really taste what Georgia has to offer.

The warmth and knowledge of the guide seem to elevate the experience, and the inclusions—wines, spirits, cable car—add special touches that make it feel like a true local adventure. It’s a solid pick if you’re hungry for both flavor and insight, and if you appreciate a good mix of walking, tasting, and sightseeing.

If you’re after a thoughtful, flavorful introduction to Tbilisi that balances cultural sights with culinary delights, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a fair bit of walking, and make sure your shoes are comfy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of arranging transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the pace and the time spent at each stop. Check availability for exact starting times.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers all tastings (including khinkali, sweets, sauces, wines, spirits), cable car tickets, and a professional English-speaking guide. No additional food or drinks are included unless specified.

Can I do this tour with children?
Children under 12 are only permitted on private tours, and the walking distance might be tiring for younger kids. It’s best suited for older children and adults.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves roughly 2 to 3 miles of walking, it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s worth informing the provider in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there’s outdoor walking and stops in various weather conditions.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The tour mainly focuses on traditional Georgian foods like khinkali, but you might find some options with modifications. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, it’s offered in English, and small or private groups may have more flexibility.

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

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic way to get to know Tbilisi through its flavors, sights, and stories. If you’re keen on experiencing Georgia’s culinary scene while also seeing some of the city’s best landmarks, it’s worth considering. Just remember to pace yourself, wear comfortable shoes, and come hungry!

You can check availability for your dates here: