Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings

Discover the Charm of Old Tbilisi with a Local Guide and Tantalizing Tastings

Our experience of the Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and authentic flavors. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll wander through the winding streets of the historic Old Town, led by a knowledgeable local guide—an excellent way to understand Georgia’s capital beyond the typical tourist spots. The tour includes more than ten tastings of wine, pastries, spices, and even traditional chacha, making it a delicious introduction to Georgian cuisine and culture.

What we love most are two things: First, the personalized attention from guides like Giorgi, who share not just facts but stories that bring the city’s history alive. Second, the diversity of tastings—from local wines to baked goods and spices—giving a real flavor of Georgian life. A possible drawback? The tour does not include transportation, so you need to make your way to the meeting point. Still, it’s perfect for those who enjoy walking and exploring at a relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who love history, food, wine, and intimate group experiences. It’s ideal if you want to maximize your time in Tbilisi while sampling its best culinary offerings and uncovering hidden corners most visitors miss. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, this walk offers both highlights and lesser-known gems, all with a friendly local guide.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines sightseeing with food and wine tastings for a true taste of Georgia.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Giorgi and Luka share detailed stories and insights, making the history come alive.
• Diverse Tastings: Over 10 samples including wines, pastries, spices, and traditional spirits like chacha.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personal attention and interaction.
• Walking Tour: Focuses on Old Tbilisi’s highlights and hidden spots, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Heart of the Tour: Exploring Old Tbilisi

Walking through Old Tbilisi, you’ll quickly sense the city’s inviting atmosphere—cobbled streets, colorful houses, and a mix of medieval, Soviet, and modern architecture. Your guide, whether Giorgi, Luka, or Zezva, will lead you through these streets with a wealth of stories about Georgia’s complex history and vibrant culture.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Start at the Berikaoba Monument
Your journey begins at the Berikaoba monument, where dancers in a circle capture the lively spirit of Georgia. From here, expect a leisurely stroll through the narrow, winding streets, each corner offering something new—an ancient church facade, a lively café, or a street artist.

Clock Tower of Gabriadze Theatre
One of the most photogenic spots, this quirky clock tower showcases Georgia’s artistic flair. Your guide will explain its significance and the story behind its whimsical design, giving you a glimpse into the city’s artistic soul.

Peace Bridge & Mother of Georgia
Expect stunning panoramic views from the Mother of Georgia statue, overlooking the city and the tranquil river. The modern Peace Bridge, with its undulating form, offers a sharp contrast to the older parts of town and symbolizes the city’s forward-looking spirit.

Colorful Shardeni Street
This lively street is packed with cafes, bars, and shops, perfect for people-watching and soaking in local life. Your guide will point out hidden cafes and artisan shops where you might pick up a handcrafted souvenir.

Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

Historic Bakery Stop
A visit to a traditional bakery reveals Georgian pastries like khachapuri and sweet treats filled with cream. The pastry tasting is a highlight, with reviews praising the quality and flavor—many travelers note they wouldn’t have discovered these on their own.

Spice Shop & Chacha Tasting
Exploring a spice shop introduces you to Georgia’s top-quality spices, essential for Georgian cooking. Sampling homemade chacha, a strong grape spirit, adds a spirited local touch, appreciated by those who enjoy a bit of authentic local flavor.

Cultural Insights
Guides share stories about Georgia’s culinary traditions, the significance of spices, and the importance of wine in local culture. They also explain the role of Svan salt and dried fruits, giving you a broader understanding of regional ingredients that define Georgian cuisine.

Wine Tasting Experience

No Georgian tour would be complete without sampling its renowned wines, and this tour delivers with more than five wine tastings:

• White dry wine
• White semi-sweet wine
• Amber wine
• Dry red wine
• Traditional chacha

Participants often praise the selection, describing the wines as “unique” and “excellent quality,” with many reviewers emphasizing how the guide’s expertise made the tasting more meaningful. This part of the tour not only offers a chance to taste different varieties but also to learn about Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions, often considered the cradle of wine.

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Value and Practicalities

While the tour’s cost might seem modest, the variety of tastings—over 10 samples—delivers excellent value. It’s a good way to get a broad taste of Georgian flavors without the hassle of organizing multiple tastings independently. Plus, guided walks like this offer insights you might miss exploring alone, especially about local history and customs.

The tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, so plan your arrival accordingly. The meeting spot, the Berikaoba monument, is easy to find, but arriving on time is key to making the most of the experience. The group size is capped at 10 people, which keeps things personal and engaging.

The walking pace is relaxed, but comfortable shoes are recommended given the cobbled streets and varied terrain. Dress appropriately for the weather—comfortable clothing and footwear are a must. Women are required to wear modest clothing if entering churches, with scarves available for rent, and men need to wear knee-long trousers.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, averaging 4.9 out of 5 from 77 travelers. Many mention guides like Giorgi, Luka, and Zezva as the tour’s highlight—sharing their deep local knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. For example, one reviewer said, “Zezva was the most knowledgeable, amenable and friendliest guide we ever met,” while another noted that Luka “helped us understand about the city and took us to beautiful places.”

Taste is a big part of this tour, with visitors raving about the quality and variety of food and wine, often saying they would not have experienced such authentic flavors without the guide. The storytelling aspect also gets high marks, with many travelers appreciating the rich historical context provided alongside the tastings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy walking, exploring the streets at a relaxed pace, and learning about local culture through stories and tastes. It’s highly suitable for those who want a personal touch, as the small group size ensures interaction with guides and fellow travelers. If you’re passionate about wine, food, or simply want an authentic introduction to Tbilisi, this tour hits all the right notes.

However, it might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a tour with transportation included. It’s best for those who are comfortable on foot and eager to discover hidden corners and local flavors.

The Sum Up

The Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings offers a genuine, engaging way to see the city. You’ll gain both visual impressions of iconic sights and a deeper appreciation of Georgian culinary traditions. The knowledgeable guides, especially their storytelling and wine expertise, make this experience memorable and worthwhile.

For anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting authentic Georgian food and wine, this tour provides strong value. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in a friendly, intimate setting. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just want a flavorful introduction to Tbilisi, this walk promises a well-rounded, delicious adventure.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the Berikaoba monument, where the tour begins.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable and relaxed way to explore Old Tbilisi without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is best suited for those able to walk comfortably. It’s not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.

Are the wine tastings local?
Yes, the wines are Georgian, with a variety of styles including dry, semi-sweet, amber, and red, showcasing the country’s unique wine heritage.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised. Modest attire is required for entering churches, with scarves provided if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting fosters a friendly environment, and many reviews mention solo travelers meeting new friends during the walk.

This detailed, authentic exploration of Old Tbilisi offers an engaging blend of sights, stories, and flavors—making it a highlight for anyone eager to experience the city’s true spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: