Tbilisi: Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour

Tbilisi: Christmas Market & Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour offers a delightful way to experience Georgia’s capital during the holiday season. For around three hours, you’ll walk through illuminated markets, explore historical landmarks, sample local treats, and get a sense of Tbilisi’s warm hospitality—all with a friendly guide by your side. This tour, starting at Freedom Square, is perfect for travelers looking to soak up the city’s festive charm without rushing through or missing the local flavor.

What we especially love about this experience is how it balances culture with festive fun, giving you a taste of Georgian traditions wrapped in holiday lights. The tour’s focus on local crafts and food makes it feel authentic—these aren’t just touristy spots but real places where Georgians shop and celebrate. Plus, the inclusion of live music and beautifully decorated sights creates a lively, joyful atmosphere.

One potential consideration is the walking distance—about 3.5 km across various sights—which might be tiring for some, especially if the weather turns cold or rainy. It’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor walking, wearing warm shoes and clothing. This tour is ideal for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a well-rounded, festive experience beyond the usual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Festive Atmosphere: Experience Tbilisi bathed in holiday lights, with markets, music, and decorations.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Sample Georgian sweets, drinks, and traditional snacks in lively markets.
• Historical Sights: Discover landmarks like Freedom Square, the President’s Palace, and Rustaveli Avenue decorated for the season.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, professional guides help you navigate and explain local customs and traditions.
• Hidden Gems: Off-the-beaten-path stops offer a more intimate look at Tbilisi’s lesser-known corners.
• Value for Money: The tour includes samples, expert guidance, and photo help, ensuring a memorable experience at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tbilisi’s Festive Heart

When the holiday season arrives, Tbilisi transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights and joyful street scenes. This guided walking tour captures that magic perfectly, starting at the iconic Freedom Square. As you and your group gather here, you’ll notice the beautifully decorated St George’s Pillar, dressed in seasonal adornments, setting a festive tone for the walk ahead. From this central point, the tour takes you through the lively Orbeliani Plaza, where the main Christmas market sprawls out with stalls brimming with handmade crafts, local wines, and festive treats.

The atmosphere in the markets is vibrant but cozy. You’ll smell the aroma of freshly baked sweets and hear the cheerful hum of Georgian music. The market stalls, decorated with holiday lights, are perfect for browsing unique handicrafts and souvenirs, making this a great place to pick up gifts. The guides are very helpful in pointing out the best items, and you’ll get the chance to sample hot Georgian wine and traditional sweets, which are highlights for most visitors.

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Bazari Orbeliani, Georgia’s largest food mall. Here, the energy is contagious as vendors showcase a broad selection of georgian wines, spices, and snacks. Formerly a Soviet bazaar, this place has reinvented itself as a hub of Georgian hospitality. Sampling the local cuisine here allows you to truly taste Georgia’s rich culinary culture, from sweet churchkhela to savory lobiani (bean-filled bread).

Next, the tour takes a stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi’s main artery, which during the holiday season is lit up like a fairy tale. The grand New Year’s tree near the parliament building is a striking photo op, especially with the illuminated facades of historic buildings as a backdrop. If you’re lucky, you might even bump into Georgia’s Santa Claus, a cheerful figure who brings extra holiday cheer to the streets.

As night falls, the city’s charm is only amplified. The guide will take you to lesser-known streets and corners, revealing hidden gems that are just as enchanting as the well-trodden tourist spots. These quieter spots, decorated with lights and holiday decorations, will give you a more intimate experience of Tbilisi’s local traditions and festive spirit.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Freedom Square

This is the heart of the city and the perfect kickoff point. The square is lively and decorated, ready for the festivities. Here, the St George’s Pillar stands tall, dressed for the season, providing a perfect photo backdrop. The guide will set the tone, welcoming you and giving a brief overview of the city’s holiday traditions.

Market Exploration at Orbeliani Plaza

Walking through this main Christmas market, you’ll see festive kiosks offering everything from handmade crafts to warm drinks. This is where you’ll really feel the local holiday cheer. The stalls are bathed in twinkling lights, creating a magical market scene. Sampling hot Georgian wine is a must—perfect for warming up during chilly evenings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Georgian Food Mall – Bazari Orbeliani

This vibrant bazaar is a highlight for food lovers. You can browse through spice mixes, wines, and local snacks. Sampling the sweets, like traditional Georgian churchkhela, or trying savory dishes, helps you understand the local culinary culture. The atmosphere here is lively and authentic—nothing touristy about it, but a real slice of Georgian hospitality.

Rustaveli Avenue & The New Year’s Tree

This grand boulevard is transformed during the holidays, with lights draping the entire street and the large New Year’s tree near the parliament building drawing crowds. Walking here, you’ll enjoy a festive ambiance that feels both joyful and nostalgic. The avenue is also home to beautifully lit historic buildings and shops, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll and photos.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Discoveries

Finally, the guide will take you to quieter, lesser-known corners of Tbilisi. These spots are less crowded but equally festive, often decorated with local lights and ornaments. It’s an intimate way to see the city’s hidden charms and learn about lesser-known traditions.

Value and Practical Tips

What makes this tour a good value is not just the sights but the personalized experience. It includes samples of sweets and drinks, expert guidance, and photo assistance, ensuring you leave with not just memories but also some authentic local treats. The tour’s small group size means more interaction and flexibility, which enhances the overall experience.

The tour is designed for walkers—about 3.5 km in total—so comfortable shoes and warm clothing are a must. Winter in Tbilisi can be quite cold, so dressing in layers is advised. Since it’s a walking tour, it isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, but for most able-bodied travelers, it’s a manageable and enjoyable pace.

The meeting point at Burberry on Freedom Square is central and easy to find. Just remember to arrive on time, as the tour has a 10-minute wait policy and late arrivals need to rebook.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This guided tour is ideal for history lovers, foodies, and families who want an immersive, festive experience. If you’re keen on discovering authentic Georgian traditions, sampling local cuisine, and seeing Tbilisi decorated for the holidays, this is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer small group settings and insightful guides to enrich their visit.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Tbilisi during the Christmas season, this tour offers a lively, authentic way to celebrate. The combination of festive markets, historic sights, and local delicacies makes it a well-rounded experience that captures the city’s warm spirit. You’ll leave not only with photos but also with a deeper appreciation for Georgian culture and holiday customs.

For those seeking a meaningful, joyful, and tasty glimpse of Tbilisi during its most beautiful time of year, this guided walk ticks many boxes. It’s a chance to enjoy the city’s sparkling lights, savor delicious treats, and learn about local traditions—all in just a few hours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children enjoy this tour, especially since it’s a walk through festive markets and decorated streets. Just ensure kids are comfortable with walking and bundled up for the weather.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as the tour involves walking about 3.5 km. Dress warmly with layers, including a jacket, hat, and gloves during winter months.

Are there opportunities to buy souvenirs?
Absolutely. The markets and bazaar stalls are filled with unique handicrafts, local wines, and snacks, making good options for gifts.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at the entrance of Burberry on Freedom Square. You’ll need to make your way there on your own.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers a guided walk, samples of Georgian sweets, and assistance with photos. It does not include additional snacks, drinks, or personal expenses.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, with time for exploring, shopping, and photos.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, the guide speaks English, Russian, and Ukrainian.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking on uneven terrain, unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

In all, this guided walking tour provides a warm, lively, and authentic taste of Tbilisi during its most festive time. For travelers wanting a relaxed, immersive experience that combines history, culture, and holiday cheer, it’s a charming choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: