Tour to Gardenia Shevardnadze Flea Market and Tbilisi Old Town

Experience the Best of Tbilisi in a Day with a Private Tour

Looking to see Tbilisi’s most iconic spots comfortably and with expert guidance? For $164 per person, you can spend around 8 hours exploring the city’s highlights, including the Chronicle of Georgia monument, the Gardenia Shevardnadze nursery, the bustling flea market, and historic sites like the Anchiskhati Basilica and Narikala Fortress. What makes this tour stand out? It combines private transportation with a customized itinerary, ensuring you get a personalized experience.

We especially appreciate how the tour starts with panoramic views from the Chronicles of Georgia monument—perfect for snapping photos and getting a quick history lesson. Later, the visit to Gardenia Shevardnadze offers a peaceful break among vibrant plants, with a cozy cafe to relax in. And who doesn’t love browsing a flea market packed with antique jewelry, vintage cameras, and Soviet memorabilia?

A potential consideration is the pace—this is a full-day tour with quite a few stops, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and standing for periods. Also, since it’s a private experience, it’s ideal if you value flexibility and personalized attention. If you’re eager to see both the city’s historic sites and local markets without the hassle of navigating on your own, this tour hits the sweet spot.

If your main interests include history, local culture, and authentic markets, and you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi, this tour offers great value and memorable sights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle allows for flexible pacing and tailored commentary.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from the Chronicle monument and Narikala Fortress give you a meaningful sense of Tbilisi’s layout.
• Rich Cultural Stops: From ancient basilicas to lively flea markets, the itinerary covers core historic and local highlights.
• Relaxing Breaks: The Gardenia nursery offers a peaceful moment amid blooming plants and a cozy cafe.
• Comprehensive Overview: Walking through Old Town and visiting key landmarks provides a well-rounded sense of Tbilisi’s character.
• Value for Price: At $164, the tour includes transportation, guide, and some entry fees, making it a convenient way to see a lot in one day.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This private Tbilisi tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s diverse charms, balancing scenic vistas, historic sites, and lively markets. It’s designed for travelers who want an insightful introduction without the stress of organizing logistics themselves. Let’s look at each stop in detail to understand what you can expect and why it’s worth your time.

Starting at the Chronicles of Georgia

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel, a hassle-free way to start exploring. You’ll be driven to the Chronicles of Georgia, a towering monument sculpted by Z. Tsereteli in 1980, which features a series of relief sculptures depicting significant moments in Georgia’s history and religion. The view from this vantage point offers sweeping panoramas of Tbilisi, where you can grasp the city’s layout and marvel at the blend of old and new architecture.

This spot is particularly valued for the photo opportunities and the chance to learn about the country’s kings, queens, and pivotal figures from your guide. One reviewer notes the “nice place to see plants and decorations,” and enjoys the spectacular views over the city.

Serenity at Gardenia Shevardnadze

Next, the tour takes you to Gardenia Shevardnadze, a charming nursery and flower garden with a cozy café. Here, you can relax among blooming plants and browse unique home appliances displayed like a museum under the open sky. According to reviews, visitors appreciate the beautiful plants and the peaceful atmosphere—a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy a moment of tranquility.

The included admission gives you time to wander freely, take photos, and perhaps pick up a plant or souvenir from the gift shop. The café is praised as a “pleasant, warm” spot, though some reviews mention that staff could be more personable.

Exploring the Tbilisi Flea Market

Afterward, it’s time to experience local life at the Tbilisi Flea Market. Located in the Aghmashenebeli Avenue neighborhood, this market offers a vibrant mix of antique jewelry, WWII medals, Soviet-era cutlery, vintage cameras, and quirky trinkets. It’s a lively, colorful place where you can browse for authentic souvenirs or simply watch local vendors selling their wares.

A reviewer described it as a place to find “old military medals from WWII” and “many more,” emphasizing the diversity of items available. The market’s informal, bustling atmosphere gives you genuine insight into everyday Georgian life and history.

Old Town Walk and Historic Sites

From the market, you’ll stroll through Tbilisi’s Old Town, passing notable landmarks like the Gabriadze Marionette Theater with its distinctive clocktower, and the Anchiskhati Basilica, dating back to the 6th century—the oldest church in the city. Walking through these streets, you’ll see colorful balconies, ancient architecture, and get a sense of the city’s layered history.

The tour pauses at the Anchiskhati Basilica, which offers a quiet moment to appreciate its simple yet profound architecture. It’s a favorite among visitors for feeling like a true glimpse into early Georgian Christianity. Passing the Patriarch’s residence, you’ll get a sense of the city’s religious importance.

Modern and Medieval Tbilisi

Crossing the Bridge of Peace, a striking modern structure, you’ll enter the Rikhe Park area. From here, a cable car ride transports you up to Narikala Fortress, which you’ll explore for sweeping views of the Old Town below. The fortress, dating back to the 4th century, provides both historical intrigue and a breathtaking vantage point—a must-see for first-timers.

One reviewer loved the view from Narikala, noting it’s “enjoyable to see the Old Town from above.” The short walk through the fortress’s ramparts offers a tangible connection to Tbilisi’s past.

Ending at Abanotubani and Meidan Square

Your last stop is the Sulfur Bath District, known as Abanotubani. This area is famous for its historic bathhouses, some dating back to the 17th century, supplied by natural hot springs. You’ll also walk past Legvtakhevi Waterfall, adding a peaceful natural touch before ending your day at Meidan Square, a lively hub filled with cafes and street performers.

This walk gives a relaxed, authentic feel for the city’s social life and traditional architecture. It’s a lovely way to conclude your day, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $164, you’re getting a full day of guided sightseeing with hotel pickup, a private vehicle, and numerous iconic sites. The inclusion of bottled water and entry tickets (like to the nursery and Narikala cable car) makes it a convenient, cost-effective way to see many faces of Tbilisi. The personalized guide can tailor the experience, focusing on your interests, and answer questions along the way.

While the tour does cover a lot, it’s paced for those who enjoy walking and exploring without rushing. The balance of scenic viewpoints, cultural landmarks, and local markets provides a well-rounded taste of what makes Tbilisi special.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a rundown of Tbilisi, combining history, culture, and markets. It’s perfect for first-timers who appreciate guided insights and like to cover a lot in one day. If you’re interested in historic sites, such as the 6th-century basilica and Narikala Fortress, along with local markets and gardens, this tour delivers on those fronts.

It’s also ideal if you prefer private transportation and customized attention, making it easier to adapt the pace to suit your comfort. If you enjoy stunning views and learning stories behind sights, this tour will satisfy those interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private guide and driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by private vehicle, a ride on the aerial cable car to Narikala Fortress, and bottled water. Some sites like the nursery and Narikala have admission tickets included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing ample time to explore multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, providing personalized attention.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers who enjoy walking.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately—comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Does the tour operate on rainy or very hot days?
Yes, it runs in all weather, but be prepared for the conditions to ensure comfort during outdoor walks.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to relax and buy refreshments at the nursery café or in local cafes in Old Town.

What makes this tour different from self-guided visits?
Having a knowledgeable guide provides contextual stories, local insights, and the ability to customize parts of the experience, enriching your understanding of Tbilisi beyond what a solo visit might offer.

To sum it up, this private tour to Tbilisi’s highlights offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historic landmarks, and local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable, flexible, and informative introduction to the city. The combination of expert guidance and authentic sites makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a meaningful day in Georgia’s vibrant capital.