Tbilisi might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but it’s a city that truly shines during the holiday season. With its glowing street lights, bustling markets, and warm cafes offering hot chocolate and Glühwein, Tbilisi transforms into a winter wonderland full of surprises. What makes these Christmas tours in Tbilisi stand out is their blend of cultural charm, lively street scenes, and local hospitality — you get a real taste of Georgian holiday traditions, all wrapped in a festive atmosphere. We’ve especially enjoyed tours that combine guided walks with opportunities to sample festive treats, like the Tbilisi: Christmas Tour & Glühwein, Half-Day Guided Walking, which captures the city’s magic perfectly.
If you’re after a lively holiday experience that mixes sightseeing with tastings and local stories, these tours will give you a memorable taste of Tbilisi’s Christmas spirit.
Quick Overview
This list covers four top Christmas and New Year experiences that showcase Tbilisi’s festive charm. Whether you want a guided walking tour through the city’s decorated streets, a market-centered exploration of local treats and crafts, or an evening immersed in the spectacular holiday lights, there’s something here for every type of traveler. For more details, check out the tours themselves: Tbilisi: Christmas Tour & Glühwein, New Year in Tbilisi: Christmas Market and Hidden Gems, Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walk, and Christmas Market & Lights Guided Walk.
1. Tbilisi: Christmas Tour & Glühwein, Half-Day Guided Walking
Topping our list is the Tbilisi: Christmas Tour & Glühwein, Half-Day Guided Walking. This 3-hour tour is a favorite for its comprehensive look at Tbilisi’s holiday atmosphere. You’ll stroll through six different streets, soaking in the twinkling lights, decorated squares, and festive markets, all led by a friendly local guide. Along the way, you’ll stop at cozy cafés to sip hot chocolate and Glühwein, warming up while enjoying the holiday ambiance.
What makes this tour special is its balance of sightseeing, cultural insights, and festive treats. Travelers consistently praise the guide’s warmth and knowledge—Nodari, for example, made guests feel at home while sharing traditions and stories. The itinerary covers iconic spots like the Liberty Square, the National Opera, and the Rustaveli Theatre, along with hidden corners filled with local crafts and food stalls.
At just 3 hours, it’s a manageable way to experience Tbilisi’s holiday spirit without feeling rushed. The reviews reflect a genuine sense of warmth and fun, with many saying it’s the best way to feel immersed in Georgian Christmas traditions.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a guided walk that combines festive sights, local culture, and warm drinks in a friendly, intimate setting.
2. New Year in Tbilisi: Christmas Market and Hidden Gems Tour
For around $39, the New Year in Tbilisi: Christmas Market and Hidden Gems offers a lively, budget-friendly way to celebrate the season. This 3-hour tour kicks off at Liberty Square, where the iconic St. George’s Column is decorated for the holidays. From there, it’s a walk through Orbeliani Square, the main Christmas bazaar filled with hot mulled wine, handcrafted gifts, and spicy snacks.
Tour guide Oksana has a knack for making everything feel personal and safe, especially during recent protests. She takes her time explaining the significance of each site, sharing local stories, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. The tour emphasizes Georgia’s festive traditions, with plenty of tastings and opportunities to buy unique gifts directly from local vendors.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a focus on markets and street scenes. The reviews highlight the guide’s cheerful attitude and her ability to answer all questions, making the experience both fun and informative.
Bottom line: If your priority is exploring Tbilisi’s Christmas markets and soaking up local holiday cheer on a budget, this tour hits the mark.
3. Tbilisi: Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour
If you love wandering through markets and exploring hidden corners of a city, the Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour is a great choice. It lasts about 3 hours and starts near the Burberry store, taking you through Tbilisi’s lesser-known but equally festive spots. The tour includes stops at local food malls, historical sites, and craft stalls, all under the glow of holiday lights.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local traditions and craftsmanship. You’ll have time for photos, shopping, and sampling Georgian sweets. The guide’s friendly approach makes it easy to ask questions about local customs. The itinerary also includes visits to famous sights like the National Gallery and Museum of Georgia, giving you a rich cultural context alongside seasonal cheer.
Guests rave about the tour’s intimate feel and the opportunity to discover tucked-away spots many visitors miss. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed walk with plenty of chances to shop and enjoy Georgian hospitality.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers interested in a balanced mix of sightseeing, shopping, and experiencing local holiday traditions.
4. Tbilisi: Christmas Market & Lights Guided Walking Tour
Last on our list is the Christmas Market & Lights Guided Walk, which is all about savouring Tbilisi’s spectacular holiday light displays. Over 3 hours, you’ll walk through major illuminated spots like Fabrika, Dedaena Park, and the Dry Bridge Market. The tour emphasizes the visual magic of the city’s festive lighting and the chance to sample warm drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate as you go.
What makes this experience stand out is the focus on scenic views and photo opportunities. The guide shares tips on the best places for holiday photos and points out the most decorated streets. It’s a relaxed, enjoyable way to take in the city’s festive atmosphere while learning some local tips and traditions along the way.
This tour is great if your main interest is holiday lights and cityscapes. Many reviews mention how magical the illuminated streets look at night, making it a wonderful evening activity. It’s suitable for those who enjoy walking and want a scenic, festive experience.
Bottom line: Ideal if visual displays and festive cityscapes are your top priorities during the holiday season.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Experience in Tbilisi
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: If you want a comprehensive guided walk with tastings, the Tbilisi: Christmas Tour & Glühwein offers a warm and detailed experience. For a market-focused, budget-friendly adventure, the New Year in Tbilisi: Christmas Market and Hidden Gems is excellent. The Hidden Gems tour is perfect if you want to explore lesser-known spots and enjoy shopping. Lastly, the Lights & Markets tour is best suited for lovers of stunning visuals and cityscapes.
Think about your pace, whether you prefer a focus on markets, scenic views, or cultural storytelling. Booking early is wise, as the festive season in Tbilisi attracts many travelers eager to enjoy the city’s holiday sparkle.
Final thoughts
Tbilisi offers a delightful array of Christmas tours that highlight its unique blend of tradition, celebration, and lively street scenes. For a cozy, guided experience with festive drinks, the Glühwein tour is fantastic. If you’re more into exploring markets and local crafts, the Hidden Gems and Market tours deliver authentic flavor. And for those who want to simply enjoy the twinkle of holiday lights, the Lights Guided Walk will leave you dazzled.
No matter your preference, these experiences are a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and see Tbilisi in a whole new light. Be sure to book early, and enjoy your Georgian Christmas adventure!