Tbilisi: Private Old City Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

If you’re planning to visit Georgia’s vibrant capital, Tbilisi, and want a well-rounded taste of the city’s history, architecture, and culture, this Private Old City Walking Tour with Wine Tasting might just be the experience you’re looking for. From the moment we first read about it, we were struck by how it combines the essentials of Tbilisi’s storied streets with a delicious glimpse into Georgia’s famed wine culture.

What really caught our eye was the chance to stroll through historic neighborhoods with a local guide—someone who can unlock the stories behind the buildings—and then relax with a wine tasting that highlights Georgia’s long-standing winemaking traditions. Plus, the flexible schedule and private group setup make it appealing, especially if you prefer a more personalized experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 2.5 hours, so it’s a good fit if you want a concise yet rundown of the city. But if you’re after a leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might consider adding more time or combining it with other activities. This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and wine lovers who want an engaging, authentic look at Tbilisi.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private group means more tailored attention and flexibility.
• Rich Cultural Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Metekhi Church, Narikala Fortress, and the Sulphur Baths.
• Stunning Views: Many stops offer scenic vistas of the city and surrounding landscapes.
• Local Insights: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories that bring Tbilisi’s history to life.
• Wine Tasting: A highlight for those interested in Georgia’s ancient winemaking tradition.
• Convenient Schedule: Book at your preferred time; the tour can be adapted to your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting at the Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali

The tour kicks off right beside the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, a fitting starting point for enjoying Tbilisi’s legendary past. Our guide will likely meet you here, setting a friendly tone for what’s ahead. It’s a good spot for initial photos and orientation before heading into the heart of the city.

Metekhi Church and Scenic Views

From there, you’ll visit Metekhi Church, perched on a cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. Our guides love this spot—not just for its architecture but for the sweeping panoramic views of the city below. It’s a popular photo stop, and with good reason; the backdrop is stunning, especially when the sun hits the river and old town rooftops.

Kartlis Deda: The Mother of Georgia

Next, the walk takes you to Kartlis Deda, a tall statue symbolizing Georgia’s hospitality and resilience. This spot offers another great photo opportunity and insight into local culture. Reviewers rave about guides who tell stories about the statue’s symbolism, making this more than just a quick photo stop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Narikala Fortress and the Cable Car Ride

The highlight here is Narikala Fortress, an ancient fortress with commanding views. Accessed via cable car, this part of the tour is especially exciting—many travelers find the ride itself an adventure, offering perspective on the city’s layout and its sprawling hills. Once at the top, you’ll have time to explore and absorb the history and vistas. Multiple reviews mention how guides enrich the experience with engaging stories, making the fortress come alive.

Leghvtakhevi Canyon and Waterfall

Walking down from Narikala, you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Leghvtakhevi Canyon, a little slice of nature amid the city’s bustle. The waterfall here offers a moment to relax and take photos. Our guide described it as a serene spot—perfect for a quick breather before heading into more lively areas.

Abanotubani and the Sulphur Baths

Next, the tour passes through Abanotubani, famous for its historic sulphur baths. You’ll likely pass by, but some tours include a quick stop for photos or a brief explanation of the baths’ significance. This area has a unique charm, with steam rising from the baths’ domes, adding to the city’s mystique.

Meidan Bazaar: Colorful Streets and Shopping

The lively Meidan Bazaar is a favorite for many, full of vibrant colors and local vendors. It’s a great place for a brief stroll and shopping, especially for souvenirs or local crafts. Reviewers appreciate guides who point out interesting items and share local stories here, making the experience feel authentic.

Shardeni Street and Wine Tasting

Then, you’ll wander through Shardeni Street, a charming alley lined with cafes, shops, and street performers. This is where the tour really hits its stride—culminating in a wine tasting session. Georgia’s wine scene is legendary, and tasting different varieties here lets you feel the country’s deep-rooted tradition firsthand. Our sources say guides are very knowledgeable about the wines, making this part both fun and educational.

The Bridge of Peace and Rike Park

Finally, the tour walks across the modern Bridge of Peace, a sleek pedestrian bridge that connects the old and new parts of the city. It’s an excellent spot for photos, especially at sunset, with views of the city’s skyline. A quick stroll through Rike Park wraps up the experience, offering a chance to soak in the city’s lively ambiance.

Ending Back at the Starting Point

The tour concludes back at the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, leaving you with a well-rounded impression of Tbilisi’s history, architecture, and stories—all while enjoying some of Georgia’s famed wines.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the tour guide, cable car ticket, and wine tasting, making it quite a good deal considering the depth of experience. The main thing not included is hotel pick-up or drop-off, so plan to meet your guide at the designated spot.

How the Tour Feels

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness. For example, Kevin shared, “Super happy with the private tour from Mirian. Amazing historical insight, answered all questions, showed me the city from the perspective of a local native, and was very fun/enjoyable.” Other guests praised guides like Luka for their fluent English and deep knowledge, which really enhances the experience.

Timing and Flexibility

With a duration of around 2.5 hours, this tour is fairly short but packed with value. You can select your preferred start time, which offers flexibility—ideal for fitting into a busy schedule or combining with other activities in Tbilisi.

Family and Group Considerations

While the tour is private and personalized, there’s no specific mention of family-friendly features. However, the stops are generally accessible, and the pace can be adjusted during the walk. It’s more suited to adults or older children interested in history, architecture, and wine.

Final Thoughts

This Old City walking tour with wine tasting offers a balanced, engaging way to see Tbilisi’s highlights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a local perspective, good stories, and a tasting of Georgia’s renowned wines. The private setup and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll get a personalized experience, making it easier to ask questions and dive into the details.

If you’re a person who appreciates walking through historic streets, enjoying scenic views, and sampling local wines, this tour hits all those marks. It also offers enough flexibility in timing and a manageable duration, making it suitable for most travelers who want a taste of the city without a full-day commitment.

For those seeking an authentic, informative, and fun introduction to Tbilisi, this experience comes highly recommended. Just keep in mind that it’s a walk, not a deep dive into every site—so if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration, consider supplementing with additional activities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is private and flexible, so families with children or older teens interested in history and culture will find it manageable. However, it’s primarily a walking experience, so consider your children’s comfort with walking and interest in wine.

Can I choose the starting time?
Yes, you can schedule the tour at your preferred time, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, cable car ticket, and wine tasting. It’s a good value for what it offers given the mix of sightseeing and cultural experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, perfect for a half-day activity that covers the essentials without taking over your entire day.

Does the tour include hotel transportation?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. You will meet your guide at a designated spot beside the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the wine tasting part of the tour educational?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable about Georgia’s wines and will help you understand the different varieties and their significance, making it both fun and informative.

If you’re after a fun, flexible way to discover Tbilisi’s top sights, enjoy gorgeous views, and indulge in local wines, this private walking tour seems like a safe bet—an authentic slice of Georgian hospitality and culture in just a couple of hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: