Tbilisi: 3-Day Stay with City Tour and Hidden Gems

Planning a three-day trip to Tbilisi means diving into a city where history, vibrant street life, and surprising views come together in unpredictable ways. This particular package offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, authentic local experiences, and opportunities to uncover the city’s lesser-known corners. For around three days, you’ll explore highlights like Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia, while also venturing into hidden neighborhoods, balcony-lined streets, and scenic hillsides. The tour is operated by Travel by Management, with a price that reflects its comprehensive nature, including private transportation, guiding, meals, and tastings.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized approach with a private guide means you get tailored insights into each site, rather than a rushed group hustle. Second, the inclusion of hidden local spots—like Mapshalia for Megrelian cuisine—and scenic viewpoints such as Mtatsminda Park, makes for memorable moments beyond the usual tourist trail. As with any multi-day city tour, one consideration is that some sites involve a fair bit of walking and uneven terrain, which might be tricky for travelers with mobility issues.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Tbilisi that’s both educational and authentic. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see the main sights and also those interested in discovering lesser-known neighborhoods and local flavors. If you’re after a flexible, well-organized experience that balances sightseeing, food, and culture while avoiding overly commercialized tours, this package is worth considering.

Key Points

Personalized Guided Experience: A private guide ensures tailored attention and local insights.
Balanced Itinerary: Combines major landmarks with hidden neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints.
Culinary Delights: Enjoy traditional Georgian dinners, local lunch spots, and wine tastings.
Authentic Local Flavor: Discover secret balconies, old houses, street art, and quiet streets.
Beautiful Views: Epic vistas from the Chronicle of Georgia and Mtatsminda Park.
Flexible & Convenient: All transportation, hotel stays, and transfers are included, making logistics simple.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of Tbilisi in 3 Days

We found that this tour offers a well-rounded peek into Tbilisi’s contrasting layers—from bustling streets to quiet balconies, from ancient fortresses to modern parks. It’s a smart choice if you want to experience the city without feeling rushed, yet still cover its highlights and some hidden treasures.

For broader city exploration in Tbilisi, we've covered these other tours

Day 1: Arrival, Orientation, and a Taste of Local Life

From the moment your guide picks you up at the airport or railway station, you’re on your way to Tiflis Hotel, a centrally located 4-star base that offers both comfort and proximity to the action. The first evening is all about settling in with a traditional Georgian dinner, where you can try local dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (savory dumplings).

After dinner, we loved strolling along Rustaveli Avenue, the city’s main artery, filled with lively cafes, shops, and historic architecture. Alternatively, a visit to a cozy wine bar like 8000 Vintages offers the chance to sample Georgia’s famous wines—an essential part of the local culture. The relaxed atmosphere here is perfect for easing into Georgia’s warm hospitality.

Day 2: Major Sights & Scenic Spots with a Private Guide

The second day is where the tour truly shines with a private guide leading you through the city’s must-see sites. You’ll start at Narikala Fortress, with panoramic views over the city, and then visit the Mother of Georgia Statue, an iconic symbol overlooking Tbilisi. Both sites are not only photogenic but also packed with history and meaning.

Next, you’ll explore the Abanotubani (Sulfur Bath District), famous for its thermal baths housed in beautifully tiled buildings. The nearby Leghvtakhevi Waterfall offers a peaceful break from city noise, and crossing the Bridge of Peace into Rike Park introduces a modern, lively space with views of the old town’s rooftops.

The religious sites, Anchiskhati Basilica and Sioni Cathedral, provide a quiet glimpse into Tbilisi’s spiritual heritage. Lunch at a scenic restaurant like Funicular Restaurant or Cafe Littera offers both good food and stunning city views. We appreciated the chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

In the afternoon, a visit to the Tbilisi Dry Bridge Market reveals local crafts, vintage items, and an authentic street market experience. The day wraps up with a funicular ride up to Mtatsminda Park, where you’ll enjoy a stunning sunset over the city. To cap the day, a wine tasting at Vino Underground or G.Vino introduces you to Georgia’s legendary viniculture, with some visitors describing the wine as “some of the best we’ve ever had.”

Day 3: Hidden Corners & Optional Adventures

The third day focuses on hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights. A highlight is the Chronicle of Georgia, a towering hilltop monument offering sweeping views of the Caucasus mountains and Tbilisi’s old town. We loved the way this site combines artistic monumentality with breathtaking scenery—it’s a must-visit for panoramic photos.

Next, you’ll wander Betlemi Street Stairs and discover Hidden Balconies, tiny architectural treasures that tell stories of the city’s colorful past. Strolling through Tbilisi’s old houses and street art reveals layers of history, art, and local life that are often overlooked.

Lunch at Mapshalia, a local spot serving Megrelian cuisine, is a delicious way to experience regional flavors. The dish we tried was flavorful and hearty, a real treat for food lovers.

For those interested, an optional half-day trip to David Gareja Monastery offers an entirely different landscape—arid, semi-desert, and dotted with ancient caves and frescoes—adding a spiritual and scenic dimension to your trip.

Finally, in the late afternoon, your guide will transfer you back to the railway station or airport, closing out an experience rich in sights, tastes, and stories.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Visitors Say

Travelers frequently mention the stunning views from the Chronicle of Georgia and Mtatsminda Park as unforgettable highlights. One reviewer described it as “the perfect spot for sunset pictures” and appreciated the personalized guide service that made each site meaningful. Others praised the delicious local food and wine tastings, noting that the hidden local spots felt more authentic than touristy restaurants.

Some did mention that the tour involves walking on uneven streets and stairs, which might be a consideration for those with mobility challenges. However, the overall consensus is that the well-organized schedule and private guiding make the experience enjoyable and manageable.

While in Tbilisi, here are other experiences we've covered

The Value of This Tour

Considering the comprehensive itinerary, including hotel stays, private transport, meals, and tastings, this package offers solid value for travelers eager to get a full picture of Tbilisi without the hassle of planning each detail. The ability to customize certain parts, such as optional visits to David Gareja, adds flexibility. The inclusion of authentic experiences—local dining, street art, hidden balconies—means you leave with more than just tourist photos; you’ll have stories and flavors to recall.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 3-day experience suits travelers who want to see the must-visit sights with a knowledgeable guide, while also exploring hidden neighborhoods and local culinary delights. It’s perfect for first-time visitors seeking a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi, as well as those interested in culture, architecture, and scenic views. While not designed for travelers with mobility issues, it offers a good balance of walking and sightseeing with comfortable transport.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and scenic introduction to Tbilisi, this tour hits the mark. It balances classic sights with lesser-known treasures, all while making you feel like a guest in a city full of surprises. Expect stunning vistas, delicious food, and stories from a friendly guide who knows the city inside out. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just craving a memorable city adventure, this trip offers both enjoyment and value.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, all transfers between the airport, hotel, sights, and back to the station or airport are covered with private car service.

What is the hotel like? You stay at a centrally located 4-star hotel, providing comfortable accommodations close to the action.

Are meals included? Yes, the package includes a traditional Georgian dinner on arrival, scenic lunches, and wine tastings, adding to the culture.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is designed to be flexible, with optional visits like David Gareja Monastery available if booked in advance.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s mainly geared toward adults comfortable with walking and stairs. Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, Russian, German, Georgian, Hebrew, Armenian, and Ukrainian.

How many people are in the group? This is a private group experience, so the size is limited to your booking party.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended; avoid smoking in the vehicle.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

This Tbilisi 3-day experience offers a thoughtful, immersive journey into Georgia’s capital, perfect for those who want to see the highlights and hidden corners with ease and authenticity.