Tbilisi: Old and New City Guided Tour with 2 Cable Car Rides

Exploring Tbilisi offers a perfect blend of history, modernity, and scenic beauty. For just $36 per person, this 2 to 4-hour guided tour takes you through Georgia’s capital, visiting both its oldest corners and its newest developments. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Mia, Nodar, and George, you’ll hop on two cable cars to reach two peaks with sweeping panoramic views that showcase the city’s diverse character.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see Old Tbilisi’s winding streets and historic landmarks—including the iconic Mother of Georgia statue and Narikala Castle—from a breathtaking vantage point. Coupled with the modern skyline, lush parks, and luxury apartments on the newer side of town, this tour beautifully illustrates how Tbilisi balances its past and present. The second highlight is the two cable car rides that elevate you to these vantage points, offering incredible photo opportunities and a sense of adventure.

A slight consideration is the roughly 2 miles of walking, which might be a bit much for travelers with mobility challenges or those hoping for a more leisurely pace. Also, since luggage or large bags are not allowed, pack light if you plan to join. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy active exploration combined with scenic views, especially first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to the city’s character and history.

Key Points

• Two cable car rides offer contrasting panoramic views of Tbilisi’s old and new districts.
• The guided commentary enhances understanding of the city’s history and culture.
• The tour covers iconic landmarks like Narikala Fortress and Mother of Georgia.
• The experience is ideal for first-timers and those seeking an affordable city overview.
• Private options and small group sizes provide a more personalized experience.
• Price-to-value ratio is excellent, with many travelers praising the guides’ knowledge and warm hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour is a fantastic way to get a broad sense of Tbilisi’s character without exhausting yourself. For a modest price, you gain exclusive access to scenic viewpoints via cable cars, which are really the highlight. The first cable car ride takes you to a modern district with luxury apartments, well-maintained parks, and sweeping city views—think of it as the city’s sleek, contemporary face. The second ride transports you to the historic old town, where cobblestoned streets, traditional architecture, and landmarks like Narikala Fortress await.

A major strength is the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Reviewers like Ashish, who appreciated Mia’s thorough explanations of Tbilisi’s history and culture, highlight how guides make the experience memorable. Many praise their guides’ knowledge, patience, and ability to tailor the tour to the group’s pace and interests. Several reviews mention feeling like they were exploring with an old friend, which makes the experience more relaxed and authentic.

The scenic cable car rides provide a different perspective on the city. From these vantage points, you’ll see Tbilisi’s diverse architecture, from traditional houses with wooden balconies to luxury complexes. The views also include landmarks like Turtle Lake, which adds a peaceful, natural element to the urban exploration. This mix of nature, history, and cityscape makes for a well-rounded experience.

The value for money is a standout feature. For just $36, you get hotel pickup, transportation, two cable car tickets, and a guided commentary—a package that would cost far more if you arranged each component separately. Many reviewers emphasize that guides are attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins with hotel pickup, making logistics simple and stress-free. Once aboard a comfortable vehicle, your guide will lead you through the contrast between the modern and historic districts. This quick but comprehensive journey sets the tone for the day: cityscapes that tell stories of wealth, history, and cultural resilience.

The first cable car ride is to a peak on the newer side of Tbilisi. Here, you’ll see luxury apartments, parks, and the modern skyline, providing a glimpse into the city’s recent growth. From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of the city, the lush Kura River, and distant mountains. Some reviewers mention that this side of the city feels lively and affluent, giving insight into Tbilisi’s upward trajectory.

Next, the tour takes you on a quick drive to the Old Town, where the second cable car whisks you up to a historic peak with a different vibe. From here, you’ll see the timeless beauty of Old Tbilisi—narrow streets, traditional houses with wooden balconies, and landmarks like Narikala Fortress and Mother of Georgia. The views here are more ancient and charming, with a sense of stepping back in time.

Throughout the tour, guides offer fascinating stories and cultural tidbits, making history come alive. For example, many reviewers appreciated how guides like Kristine and Arshii made the city’s past accessible and engaging, mixing facts with fun anecdotes. The tour also includes stops at Turtle Lake and the Botanical Garden, adding natural beauty and peaceful spots for photos and relaxation.

The walking portions are mostly relaxed but involve roughly 2 miles of walking, which can be a consideration for travelers with limited mobility. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to make the most of the experience.

Authentic Voices: What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews emphasize guides’ friendliness and expertise. Ashish from India notes, “Mia, our guide, was very informative & explained everything about Tbilisi’s history, Georgian culture & monuments.” Irina from Uzbekistan adds, “We had a little trouble finding each other at first, but the guide’s charm and knowledge made up for it.”

Several travelers highlight the spectacular views from the cable cars. Jibril from Qatar called it “a fantastic way to explore both the old and new parts,” while Yannick from Georgia mentioned that the guide “showed us the most beautiful spots and made everything fun.”

The value for money is a recurring theme. Many praise the tour’s well-planned itinerary, especially with the inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation, and cable car tickets—all for a reasonable price. Emma Jane from the UK said, “The pace was perfect for a family, and the cable car rides made it special.”

For those interested in local tips, guides often share restaurant suggestions, best photo spots, and places to relax after the tour. Several reviews mention the personalized attention in private tours, which can be very helpful for travelers wanting a deeper dive into the city’s stories.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration often ranges from 2 to 4 hours, so plan accordingly, especially if you want to combine it with other activities.
• Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are key since there is some walking and outdoor sightseeing.
• Luggage or large bags are not allowed, so pack light.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.
• It’s suitable for first-time visitors, small groups, and families, but not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or babies under 1 year.
• The tour is offered in English, with private and small group options available.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting Tbilisi for the first time and want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic views, cultural insights, and light physical activity. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the friendly guides who make learning about the city engaging and fun.

Those interested in photography will love the two cable car rides and the variety of viewpoints. The tour’s value also makes it appealing for budget-conscious visitors who want to maximize their time and avoid the hassle of planning multiple activities independently.

The Sum Up

This Tbilisi tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural education, and active exploration. For just a bit over thirty dollars, you get two cable car rides, a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and a chance to see both Old and New Tbilisi from stunning viewpoints. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings, snap memorable photos, and learn about Georgia’s vibrant capital.

The guides’ friendliness and expertise stand out—many travelers feel they’ve made new friends by the end of the tour. The views from the cable cars are truly the highlight, offering perspectives that are both breathtaking and insightful. If you enjoy easy walks combined with spectacular scenery and want to understand the city’s contrasts, this tour comes highly recommended.

For those seeking an affordable, engaging introduction to Tbilisi, with the comfort of hotel pickup and the fun of cable cars, this experience hits the sweet spot. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or exploring with family, it’s a memorable way to start your Georgian adventure.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and preferences.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tbilisi, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Are there private options available?
Yes, private tours can be booked, offering a more personalized experience with fewer participants.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour involves some walking and outdoor sightseeing.

Can I bring luggage?
Large bags or luggage are not allowed on the tour, so pack light.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Youth under 18 are only permitted on Private Tours, and the tour involves about 2 miles of walking. It’s best suited for older children and teens.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll visit Narikala Fortress, the Mother of Georgia statue, Turtle Lake, and enjoy views of Old Tbilisi’s historic streets and the modern skyline.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but your guide can offer local recommendations.

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

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, with guides providing lively commentary throughout.

In short, this guided tour offers a great snapshot of Tbilisi’s personality, combining spectacular views, historic charm, and local hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a compact yet meaningful taste of Georgia’s capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: