Tbilisi: Street Art & Dezerter Bazaar Tour w/ Tastings

Discover the underground charm and local flavor of Tbilisi with this engaging Street Art & Dezerter Bazaar Tour. In just three hours, you’ll explore some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, from the colorful walls of Fabrika to the vibrant chaos of the Dezerter Bazaar. Led by a knowledgeable guide (Giorgi is often praised for his enthusiasm and friendliness), this experience offers a mix of street art, cultural insights, and authentic tastings that truly bring the city’s diverse spirit to life.

What we love most about this tour are the moments spent admiring the city’s hidden murals—some legal, some not—and the opportunity to sample local Georgian specialties like wine, chacha (a grape spirit), and dried fruits. These details turn a simple walk into a memorable journey through Tbilisi’s creative and culinary scene.

A potential consideration is that the tour covers around 2-3 miles, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since it’s an outdoor experience, be prepared for weather—whether sun or rain. This tour suits travelers eager to see Tbilisi beyond the usual sights, especially those interested in street art, local markets, and authentic tastes.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhoods: Venture beyond tourist hotspots to discover Tbilisi’s lively, lesser-known districts.
• Street Art: See vibrant murals, graffiti, and hidden artistic expressions that reflect the city’s creative pulse.
• Cultural Insights: Gain local knowledge about artists, architecture, and everyday life from your guide.
• Market Experience: Dive into Dezerter Bazaar’s lively atmosphere, sampling regional cheeses, dried fruits, and more.
• Tastings: Enjoy Georgian wine, chacha, and sweet treats, adding flavor to your cultural exploration.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make this a stress-free way to see the city’s underground side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Hidden Side of Tbilisi

This tour is a perfect way to peel back the layers of Tbilisi’s diverse and creative character. Most travelers tend to stick with the well-worn paths—Caucasus architecture, old churches, and the scenic Old Town. But if you’re after something more offbeat and insightful, this 3-hour walk offers just that.

Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup, after which you stroll through streets that are bursting with murals and graffiti—some legal and commissioned, others more rebellious. These walls tell stories of the city’s artists, political statements, and cultural shifts. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of some murals, which adds a deeper appreciation of the city’s urban art scene.

Next, you’ll visit Fabrika, a well-known hub of creativity, where you’ll get a quick look at Tbilisi’s contemporary art scene. Here, you’ll also enjoy a quick photo stop and a chance to sip coffee or tea while soaking in the artsy vibe. The guide often shares personal stories, making the experience feel intimate and authentic.

The tour takes you to a “secret stop”—a lesser-known mural or alleyway, where you’ll see some of the most striking street art. It’s a highlight for many, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s urban creativity that few travelers get to see. Expect some great photo opportunities amid colorful walls that serve as open-air galleries.

Then, the group heads to Tbilisi Railway Station area—another spot where street art thrives. Your guide points out details and shares local history, giving you a richer context for what you’re seeing.

The final stop is at Dezerter Bazaar, Tbilisi’s oldest and largest farmers market. Here, the sensory overload is unavoidable—in the best way. The market buzzes with activity, with vendors selling everything from dried fruits to regional cheeses. You’ll sample local delights like churchkhela (a candied nut snack), tklapi (fruit leather), and regional cheeses. Tastings of traditional Georgian wine and chacha make this stop a true highlight, especially for those who appreciate good local spirits.

Many reviews mention the value of having a guide like Giorgi, who’s described as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and full of local stories. One reviewer said, “Giorgi is fantastic. Hands up to him! He showcased his passion from the way he presented himself and his intelligence in street art.” These personal touches elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing walk.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point & Pickup:
Two pickup options—10 Dodo Abashidze St or 26 Ramaz Davitashvili St—offer flexibility, ensuring you’re comfortably collected from your hotel or accommodation. The guide waits in the lobby, so being punctual makes things smoother.

Fabrika District:
This former Soviet sewing factory has been transformed into a cultural hotspot, full of street art, cafes, and creative spaces. A quick photo stop here allows you to capture the vibrant murals—each telling its own story. Expect a guided tour that explains some of the art’s background, giving you a deeper understanding of Georgian contemporary culture.

Secret Stop:
Here, you’ll see a hidden gem—perhaps an alley with street art or a mural with political or social meaning. It’s a favorite among reviewers who appreciate discovering lesser-known parts of the city, with one writer calling it “a great surprise.”

Tbilisi Railway Station:
Another area bustling with street art. Your guide will point out notable murals, explain their significance, and share insights into the city’s artistic evolution. Expect some scenic views along the way, making this part of the walk both educational and visually engaging.

Dezerter Bazaar:
The grand finale, and rightly so. This sprawling market is a feast for the senses—colors, smells, sounds. Here, you’ll enjoy sampling local wine, chacha, and traditional sweets, all while browsing the stalls. The market is lively but safe, and many reviews stress how friendly and welcoming the vendors are. The tasting experience is a highlight, especially when paired with insightful commentary from your guide.

Drop-Off:
The tour ends with the same pick-up points, making it easy to continue exploring on your own or head back to your accommodations.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to traditional city tours, this offering balances cultural education with authentic local experiences at a reasonable price. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially after a busy travel day. The tastings of Georgian wine, chacha, and sweets are not just added extras—they are integral to understanding local traditions.

The guide’s expertise greatly enhances the value, offering stories, context, and humor that turn this walk into a memorable learning experience. One reviewer mentions, “Giorgi is a fantastic guide, so passionate about what he does and full of really interesting information.” That kind of personal touch makes a difference, especially when exploring a city’s underground and artistic layers.

While the tour covers only a few miles, the diversity of sights, tastes, and stories ensures you get a well-rounded picture of Tbilisi’s creative spirit. And the focus on lesser-known neighborhoods provides a fresh perspective away from crowds and tourist traps.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for art lovers, culture seekers, and foodies who want to go beyond the usual. If you’re curious about urban murals, local markets, and authentic flavors, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate small group or private experiences that offer personalized insights.

If your time in Tbilisi is limited but you want to get beneath the surface of the city’s cultural fabric, this is a highly recommended choice. It’s suitable for those who enjoy walking and exploring outdoors, and who don’t mind a little physical activity.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering around 2-3 miles of walking.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off at specified locations, making it convenient to start and end your day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised, as you’ll be walking through streets and markets. Dress weather-appropriate, as the tour operates in any weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on street art, markets, and tastings suggests it’s best suited for adults or older children who can walk comfortably and appreciate the surroundings.

Are food and drinks included in the price?
Tastings of wine, chacha, and sweets are included, but additional food and drinks are extra.

Can I join if I don’t speak English?
The tour is conducted in English, and small groups or private options offer a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour different from other city tours?
It emphasizes local street art, authentic market experiences, and tastings, providing a more genuine and colorful picture of Tbilisi’s contemporary culture.

Is it safe to explore the markets and streets?
Yes, many reviews highlight the safety and friendliness of the vendors and streets visited, especially with a guide to navigate the area.

Final Thoughts

This Street Art & Dezerter Bazaar Tour offers a compelling way to see a different side of Tbilisi—one filled with colorful murals, lively markets, and regional flavors. It’s a great pick for anyone eager to combine cultural discovery with authentic tastes, all wrapped up in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for an overview or a seasoned traveler craving the city’s artistic heartbeat, this tour delivers an engaging, well-balanced experience. The stories shared by your guide, the vibrant murals, and the delicious tastings make it a memorable half-day outing that truly captures the spirit of Tbilisi.

If you want to go home with more than just photos—something tangible, flavorful, and meaningful—this tour is worth considering. It’s ideal for those who want to connect with local life and see the city’s creative, culinary, and cultural diversity firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here: