Tbilisi: Mtatsminda Park with Funicular and Cable Car Ride

A visit to Tbilisi isn’t complete without taking in its sweeping city views from Mtatsminda Park. This tour—offered by BFT GROUP—promises a scenic ride on Georgia’s modern cable car system, topped with a delightful taste of local flavors and the chance to snap spectacular photos. While it’s a fairly concise 3-hour experience, it packs enough charm and adventure to leave a lasting impression.

What draws us in is the combination of scenic transportation—the cable car and funicular—and the chance to enjoy panoramic vistas of Tbilisi from atop Mount Mtatsminda. We also appreciate the inclusion of a tasting of Lagidze lemonade, a Georgian specialty, and the opportunity to explore the park at your own pace. That said, the experience isn’t suited to everyone—especially those with mobility issues or vertigo—so it’s worth considering your comfort level before booking.

Ultimately, this tour is perfect for travelers craving a mix of spectacular views, cultural flavor, and a relaxed, guided experience. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of Tbilisi’s natural beauty without a long hike or complicated logistics. Let’s explore what makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Georgia itinerary.

Key Points

• Scenic cable car and funicular rides offer stunning views of Tbilisi from the mountain.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide who enhances the experience with local insights.
• Taste of Lagidze lemonade provides a refreshing break with a Georgian twist.
• Flexible return options allow you to stay longer in the park or leave when you choose.
• The experience is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with vertigo.
• Tour prices are competitive, offering good value for the included rides and guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour combines transportation, sightseeing, and cultural tasting into a thoughtfully planned 3-hour window. It’s designed for travelers who want an accessible, guided introduction to Tbilisi’s most iconic mountain and park—without the hassle of organizing tickets or navigating the city alone.

Starting at the Radisson Blu, you’ll meet your host wearing a distinctive red scarf, making it easy to locate them among the bustling crowd. From there, the journey begins with a ride on the modern cable car system—a smooth, comfortable ascent that offers view after view of the city below. The cable car tickets are included in your tour, saving you the time and hassle of purchasing separate tickets.

Once at Mtatsminda Park, the panoramic views truly steal the show. From this vantage point, you can see the rooftops of Tbilisi sprawling below, with the mountains framing the skyline—an image perfect for photos or simply soaking in the moment. Several reviewers have emphasized how memorable and photogenic this experience is, with one noting the “sweeping views of the city from the mountain’s summit.”

Another highlight is the Lagidze lemonade, which is included and provides a refreshing taste of Georgian freshness. This lightly flavored, naturally sweetened drink is a perfect way to cool down after the ascent, and it’s a treat that many travelers enjoy. For those eager to indulge more, there are options to buy local treats like Adjarian Khachapuri—cheese-filled bread—and ponchiki, a classic Georgian donut, at the park’s cafés.

The return journey down on the funicular tram caps off the experience, ending just before sunset on most days, which adds a magical glow to the scenery. If you wish to linger in the park, you’re free to stay longer—an option many travelers appreciate.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting Point at Radisson Blu

The experience kicks off at 2:00 PM, with your host ready to guide you through the afternoon. The meeting point is straightforward: just look for someone with a distinctive red scarf at the entrance of the Radisson Blu hotel.

The Cable Car Ride

As you board the cable car, you’ll notice how smoothly it glides over Tbilisi’s rooftops, offering unobstructed views of the city’s diverse architecture and surrounding mountains. The ride is about 10-15 minutes, but it feels much shorter as you marvel at the panoramic scenery.

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At Mtatsminda Park

Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with spectacular vistas that stretch across the horizon. The park itself is lively, with many snack stalls and photo spots, perfect for a relaxed stroll. The included tasting of Lagidze lemonade adds a fun, refreshing element to the visit—many reviewers have remarked how much they enjoyed this local specialty.

Optional Treats

While the tour’s main focus is the ride and views, you can purchase Georgian ponchiki—delicious donuts—or Adjarian Khachapuri, a cheese bread that’s considered Georgia’s national dish. These treats are available at the park’s vendors and make for tasty souvenirs or snacks during your stay.

The Funicular Return

Descending via the funicular tram is part of the charm, providing a slower, more relaxed way to enjoy the scenery on the way down. The tram departs at 5:00 PM, but you’re free to leave earlier or stay longer if you prefer.

The Experience’s Strengths

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who add a personable touch, making the experience both fun and informative. One reviewer noted, “Tanu was a very good friend who guided us very nicely and made it a memorable trip.” This personal guidance helps travelers feel comfortable and engaged.

The included scenic views and cultural tasting are what make this tour stand out. The combination of breathtaking vistas, the chance to sip on authentic Lagidze lemonade, and the opportunity to purchase local snacks offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s hospitality and natural beauty.

Value-wise, the price appears fair considering the tickets included for the cable car and funicular, the guide’s expertise, and the opportunity to enjoy the park at your pace. For travelers who want a hassle-free way to reach Mtatsminda and enjoy the scenery, this tour offers real convenience and quality.

Considerations and Tips

While this experience works well for most, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo, due to the heights and the nature of the rides. Also, bring comfortable shoes and a camera—you’ll want to capture the incredible views.

If you prefer to explore more or take your time, the flexible return option is a plus, allowing you to stay longer in the park or descend when you wish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a guided, scenic, and culturally engaging experience without much fuss. It’s ideal for those who enjoy beautiful vistas, local foods, and easy access. It’s also a great option for families or couples seeking a relaxed afternoon with stunning photo opportunities.

Those with limited mobility or a fear of heights should consider alternatives, as some elements involve heights and standing for a period.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the Tbilisi Mtatsminda Park with Funicular and Cable Car Ride offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, cultural taste, and expert guidance. The included rides and tastings provide excellent value, especially given the convenience of tickets and transportation arranged for you. It’s a memorable way to see the city from above, enjoy Georgia’s friendly hospitality, and capture moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to get a sense of Tbilisi from its heights or someone looking for a relaxed, guided outing, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to be impressed by the views and the warm Georgian welcome.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the cable car and funicular tickets are included if you select that option, making transportation to and from Mtatsminda Park seamless.

Can I stay longer at the park after the tour?
Absolutely. The tour concludes at 5:00 PM, but you’re free to linger and return on the tram whenever you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children will enjoy the ride and the views, but be mindful of the heights involved and the need for comfortable shoes. The tour is not recommended for those with vertigo.

Do I need to pay extra for food or drinks?
The Lagidze lemonade is included, but other treats like ponchiki or Khachapuri are available for purchase if you wish to try more local snacks.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
No, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges due to the nature of the rides and park terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy and document the experience.

This guided tour of Mtatsminda Park offers a charming mix of scenic rides, cultural tastes, and breathtaking views. It’s a well-organized way to experience Tbilisi’s natural beauty, perfect for those seeking a relaxed and memorable outing in Georgia’s capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: