Full Day Tbilisi City Tour with Wine Tasting & Cable Car Ride

Explore Tbilisi in a Day with Wine, Views, and History
This full-day private tour offers a thorough look at Georgia’s vibrant capital. For $147.50 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours with a knowledgeable guide, visiting key sights like the Chronicles of Georgia, Sameba Cathedral, and Narikala Fortress, along with a delicious Georgian lunch and wine tasting. The tour also includes a scenic cable car ride to Mtatsminda Park, giving you sweeping views of the city.

What we really appreciate about this experience are two specific aspects: First, the private transportation makes moving between diverse sites smooth and comfortable, especially considering the varied terrain. Second, the local lunch with wine tasting offers an authentic taste of Georgia’s culinary culture—perfect for those eager to indulge in local flavors.

One possible consideration is the itinerary’s pace—with so many stops packed into one day, you’ll want to be ready for some walking and sightseeing. Also, the funicular ride at Mtatsminda Park is optional and costs around $7, so budget accordingly if you plan to include it.

This tour suits travelers who crave a rundown of Tbilisi’s sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see the highlights and sample local wine and cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major landmarks, history, and views in one day.
• Private guide and transport: Ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention.
• Authentic experiences: Local lunch, wine tasting, and cultural insights provide a real taste of Georgia.
• Scenic highlights: Cable car ride and fortress visits offer memorable panoramas.
• Accessible for most: Most travelers can participate, with some walking involved, and clear dress code for churches.
• Excellent reviews: Nearly perfect ratings indicate high satisfaction, especially for the knowledgeable guides and beautiful views.

Discovering Tbilisi: A Deep Dive into the Private Full-Day Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day private experience navigates Tbilisi’s most compelling sights, combining history, architecture, religion, and local cuisine. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can tailor the pace and focus on what interests you most—whether that’s history, photography, or simply absorbing the lively street scenes.

Costing $147.50, the value lies in the all-inclusive nature—transport, guide, some entry fees, and food—making it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city without the stress of planning. With an average booking lead time of 147 days, this tour is popular among travelers who want certainty and a well-organized day.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. The Chronicles of Georgia

We start our day with the Chronicles of Georgia monument, a striking display with 16 towering pillars. These 30-35 meter-high columns depict not only the kings, queens, and heroes of Georgia but also stories from the life of Christ—a fascinating mix of national pride and religious history. The site offers stunning views of Tbilisi Sea and a chance to explore the grapevine cross of St. Nino and a small chapel.

This site is free to visit but offers dramatic photo opportunities and insight into Georgia’s national symbolism. From reviews, we know visitors enjoy the great views and the peaceful atmosphere here.

2. Holy Trinity Cathedral

Next, we visit Sameba Cathedral, a massive, awe-inspiring structure built between 1995-2004. One of the largest Eastern Orthodox churches in the world, it was erected to mark 1,500 years of Georgia’s autocephaly and 2,000 years since Jesus’s birth. Its grandeur and ornate details are worth seeing, and it’s a must-visit for religious and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Guests often comment on the sense of serenity inside and the impressive scale of the building. No admission fee is required, but respect for the religious setting is appreciated—ladies are asked to wear head coverings, which are often provided.

3. Mtatsminda Park and Cable Car

From the cathedral, you’ll ascend to Mtatsminda Park via the funicular, which is about a 501-meter ride at a steep incline. This is the highest point in Tbilisi at 770 meters above sea level. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

The cable car ride to the park is generally included in the tour, but it’s worth noting it costs around $7 if purchased separately. The park itself offers various attractions, but most visitors come here for the spectacular vistas—ideal for photography and appreciating Tbilisi’s sprawling urban landscape.

4. Old Town Tbilisi

The bulk of the tour is dedicated to Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi), a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful balconies, and historic buildings. As Georgia’s capital was founded in the 5th century, the architecture reflects a mosaic of styles—medieval, neoclassical, Art Nouveau—and many structures are still in active use.

Expect about three hours of wandering, exploring landmarks like the Metekhi Cathedral, where King Vakhtang Gorgasali once ruled, and the Sioni Cathedral, built on Mount Zion’s model, with origins dating back to the 6th or 7th centuries. The streets are lively, full of cafes, shops, and local artisans.

5. Metekhi and the Mother of Kartli

The Metekhi Church sits atop a hill with commanding views over the river and the city. A statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali dominates this area, symbolizing Georgia’s legendary founder. Nearby, the Mother of Kartli monument is a striking 20-meter aluminum figure, representing the Georgian spirit—holding a bowl of wine and a sword.

A short cable car ride takes you to Narikala Fortress, which dates back to the 4th century. The fortress’s ruins, combined with the views from its ramparts, offer a tangible connection to the city’s past—something many reviewers describe as a highlight.

6. Sulphur Waterfalls and Baths

After exploring Narikala, we visit the Leghvtakhevi Waterfall and the famous Sulphur Baths. Known for their healing properties, the baths are an iconic part of Tbilisi’s character. While you might not choose to bathe, the thermal springs and the historic bathhouses give a glimpse into Georgian wellness traditions.

The waterfall, flowing from a lush botanical garden, provides a peaceful break from the urban sights. Travelers appreciate the unique combination of nature and history in this part of the city.

7. Religious Sites: Sioni and Jvari Churches

Further religious landmarks include Sioni Cathedral, reconstructed multiple times, and Jvaris Mama Church. Both are rooted in centuries of history and offer a peaceful atmosphere, with some reviews noting their beautiful icons and historical significance.

8. Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater and Anchiskhati Basilica

Walking along Leselidze Street, you’ll encounter street art, a Tamada statue, and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater—a quirky, artistic gem. Its clock tower with the angel figure is a delightful sight, and the spectacle at the hour is fun for all ages.

The Anchiskhati Basilica is the oldest church in Tbilisi, dating from the 6th century, and offers a quiet spot to reflect on the city’s spiritual past.

9. The Bridge of Peace & Rike Park

Finally, the Bridge of Peace, a modern, wave-shaped structure, connects old and new Tbilisi. Designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi, it’s a striking contrast to the historic streets and offers fantastic photo ops. Nearby, Rike Park provides a relaxing space, perfect for a brief rest or a river walk.

The tour concludes with a visit to a luxury Georgian restaurant, where you’ll savor traditional dishes accompanied by folk music and dance. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and authentic performances as a memorable end to the day.

Why We Think This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour blends cultural depth, scenic beauty, and culinary delights into one seamless day. It’s perfect for those wanting a curated experience that covers the essentials—without the need to piece together public transport or worry about missing key sights. The private guide ensures you get personalized insights, and the transportation is comfortable and worry-free.

The inclusion of wine tasting and local lunch adds a genuine flavor of Georgia’s renowned hospitality and culinary traditions. Plus, the scenic cable car and fortress views create picture-perfect moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

One thing to keep in mind is the pace—be prepared for some walking and a full schedule. The tour’s comprehensive nature means you’ll see a lot, but it also requires some stamina. Also, the optional funicular ride adds a minor expense but is worth considering if you want the full panoramic experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a first-timer wanting to tick off all major sights and get an authentic taste of Georgia’s culture, this tour fits like a glove. It’s also great for travelers who prefer private, guided experiences rather than group tours, and those interested in history, architecture, or local wines.

Final Thoughts

We find this tour offers a solid balance between guided convenience and authentic experiences, all within a well-planned itinerary. It’s a fantastic way to discover Tbilisi’s diverse neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and scenic outlooks without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling hurried.

Is the transportation private?
Yes, your group will have private, air-conditioned transportation throughout the day, making for a comfortable experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local Georgian lunch with wine tasting is included, allowing you to enjoy authentic cuisine and beverages.

Do I need to pay extra for the funicular?
The funicular ride to Mtatsminda Park is not included in the price but costs around $7 if you choose to take it.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though some walking and climbing stairs are involved. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

What should I wear to religious sites?
Ladies need to wear head scarves and modest dresses, and men should avoid short trousers. Scarves and dresses are often provided at church entrances.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a recommended book-in time?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, so plan to be ready to meet your guide by then.

Can I customize the tour?
As a private experience, you can discuss your interests with your guide, though the itinerary is quite full already.

To sum it up, this full-day Tbilisi tour offers an excellent way to get to know the city’s highlights in a relaxed, guided setting. With its focus on iconic sights, local cuisine, and scenic panoramas, it’s perfectly suited for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Georgia’s vibrant capital. Whether you’re into history, photography, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this tour delivers a memorable and authentic experience.