Tbilisi: Old & New city, Guided tour with 12 Tastings

If you’re headed to Georgia’s capital and want to get a real feel for the city’s character, this walking tour offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. It’s designed to take you through both the old charm and modern pulse of Tbilisi, with plenty of tastings along the way. While it’s a relatively short experience—just three hours—it packs a punch in terms of authentic flavor and local stories.

What we love about this tour is its focus on small-group intimacy and local expertise. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making every stop both educational and enjoyable. Plus, the 12 tastings—covering everything from local wine to Churchkhela—are thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of Georgian cuisine.

One thing to consider: the walking portion covers roughly 2 to 3 miles, which means comfortable shoes are a must. Also, this tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, food, and lively local culture. If you’re curious about Georgia’s traditions and love to sample new flavors, this tour is a great introduction.

Who will enjoy this experience? Food lovers, history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see the city’s hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with locals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Georgian Cuisine: Tasting nine regional dishes, including dumplings, bread, and wines, offers a genuine flavor of local life.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Irina and George are highly praised for their knowledge, making the experience both fun and insightful.
• Rich Cultural Stops: From sulfur baths to the Flower Market and local markets, the tour combines culinary exploration with sightseeing.
• Balanced Experience: Perfect for those who seek a mix of history, culture, and gastronomy in a manageable time.
• Value for Money: With 12 tastings included, the tour offers a comprehensive sampling that would cost quite a bit if purchased separately, making it a smart choice for foodies.
• Flexible Booking: Options for private or small group experiences, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

A Deep Dive into the Tbilisi Experience

When considering any guided tour, especially in a city as layered as Tbilisi, the details matter. This tour, offered by Travelin Princess, stands out because of its well-thought-out itinerary, passionate guides, and emphasis on local flavors. Let’s walk through what makes this tour special—and what you might want to keep in mind.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge plus for travelers wanting a hassle-free start. This convenience means you can relax knowing the logistics are handled, and you’re not wandering around trying to find meeting points. The tour lasts about three hours, so it’s a good option if you’re on a tight schedule but still want a meaningful experience.

Exploring Tbilisi’s Old and New Sights

The tour covers some of the most iconic spots in the city:

• Cafe Daphna provides a nice photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the local vibe right at the start.
• The State Palace of Ceremonies offers a glimpse of modern Tbilisi’s official side.
• The bustling Flower Market and Dry Bridge Market are perfect for seeing how locals shop, with vibrant displays of fruits, spices, and crafts.
• Passing by landmarks like the Rezo Gabriadze Theater, the Clock Tower, and Rike Park gives a well-rounded feel of the city’s creative and scenic spaces.
• The Tbilisi cable car and views from Meidan Bazar add a scenic, fun element to the walk.

These stops aren’t just sightseeing—they frame the city’s blend of history, art, and everyday life. Several reviews mention how engaging and knowledgeable guides like Giorgi and Irina make these moments come alive, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find in a guidebook.

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The Culinary Journey

What sets this tour apart are the 12 tastings. Each one is carefully chosen to showcase Georgian flavors:

• Four different kinds of Khinkali (the famous Georgian dumplings), each with different fillings—beef, mushrooms, potato-cheese, and plain potato—highlight the diversity of local cuisine.
• Local lemonade offers a refreshing break.
• The churchkhela, a candle-shaped sweet made from grape must and nuts, is a highlight according to many reviews for its unique flavor.
• Traditional bread “Shoti” helps you experience Georgian baking techniques.
• Wine tastings include white, red, and Qvevri wines, the latter being an ancient Georgian method using clay vessels—definitely a highlight for wine lovers.
• The tasting of Chacha (a local spirit) and Muscat liqueur rounds out the beverages, giving a full spectrum of Georgian drink culture.

These tastings are more than just snacks—they’re a window into the country’s culinary history and social customs. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety, often mentioning the generous servings and the guide’s knowledge about wine pairings.

Hidden Gems and Local Stories

Beyond the food, your guide will introduce you to Tbilisi’s sulfur baths, a historic part of the city’s identity, and showcase local markets bustling with life. This isn’t a sterile tourist experience—it’s about feeling the city’s pulse. Guides like George and Irina are often praised for their engaging storytelling, sharing personal anecdotes and explaining local traditions.

Walking and Pacing

While the tour covers a good amount of ground, the pace is generally relaxed. The total walking distance of about 2-3 miles means comfortable shoes are essential. Several reviews mention how the pacing, combined with the small group size, makes for a pleasant and intimate experience. The short duration also means you won’t get exhausted, leaving plenty of energy to explore on your own afterward.

Pricing and Value

Considering the 12 tastings included, the price represents excellent value. Each tasting—wine, bread, dumplings, spirits—would cost more if bought separately. Plus, the guided aspect means you’ll learn about the significance of each dish and sight. Many travelers mention how guides like George and Irina go above and beyond, making the experience both fun and educational.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re interested in Georgia’s food and wine culture, this is an ideal introduction. It’s suitable for those who appreciate storytelling and local interaction. The tour’s small-group or private options appeal to travelers who want a more personalized experience. However, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or very young children, as it involves some walking and is geared toward adults or older children.

Final Thoughts

This Tbilisi Old & New city tour with 12 tastings offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Georgia special—its historic streets, lively markets, and delicious cuisine. The guides are universally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, turning what could be a simple sightseeing walk into a memorable cultural adventure.

Travelers who want a manageable, engaging tour that balances sightseeing with food will find this experience both satisfying and inspiring. The inclusion of wine tastings, local sweets, and traditional bread, combined with visits to iconic landmarks, makes it a smart way to spend a few hours in Tbilisi.

If you’re eager to learn about Georgia’s traditions while sampling its flavors, this tour strikes a great balance of fun, education, and genuine local charm.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour starts with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking around the city’s streets.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 12 can participate only if you book a private tour, and children under 4 should be informed in advance.

Will I have enough time to try all the tastings?
Yes, the tastings are designed to be generous, and guides often pace them to keep the experience enjoyable.

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on typical Georgian cuisine, so it’s best to ask in advance if you have specific allergies or dietary needs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially since small-group and private options are limited.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. Some stops may offer shelter if needed.

This tour is a fantastic way to get to know Tbilisi beyond the usual sights—through its flavors, its stories, and the warmth of its people. It’s a journey that satisfies your curiosity and your palate alike, making it a highlight for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: