Tbilisi: Old & New City Guided Tour with 15 Tastings & Wine

Traveling through Tbilisi offers a wonderful balance of the ancient and the modern. On this guided tour, you’ll walk its picturesque streets, learn about its fascinating past, and taste some of Georgia’s best culinary treasures. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines sightseeing with a healthy dose of deliciousness.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it seamlessly connects history, culture, and cuisine. We especially love the inclusion of 15 tastings—ranging from traditional dumplings to local sweets and wines—making it a true feast for your senses. Another highlight is the knowledgeable guides who bring Georgia’s colorful story to life with engaging commentary.

One possible consideration is that the tour involves moderate walking through various neighborhoods, which might be tricky if you have mobility issues. Also, it’s a relatively short experience—lasting between 2 to 4 hours—so those seeking an in-depth exploration might want to add extra days. That said, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Tbilisi’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

This tour suits first-time visitors, food lovers, or anyone interested in capturing the essence of Tbilisi in a manageable, engaging way. Whether your trip is brief or you want a flavorful introduction, it offers a balanced look at what makes Georgia’s capital so special.

Key Points

• Authentic experience blending history, culture, and cuisine
• 15 tastings offer an extensive overview of Georgian flavors
• Knowledgeable guides make learning about the city engaging and fun
• Flexible duration of 2-4 hours suits various schedules
• Ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive city intro
• Small group or private options enhance the personalized feel

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tbilisi Tour Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This guided tour of Tbilisi’s Old and New City areas promises an accessible way to see the city’s highlights while indulging in authentic Georgian food and wine. It’s designed to give you a broad overview without the exhaustion that often accompanies self-guided exploration or larger group tours.

The tour’s strength lies in its perfect mix: you get to stroll historic streets, enjoy stunning vistas, and sample a variety of regional specialties. Plus, the local guides are praised for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to make every stop feel personal and memorable.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since it hits many key sights in a relatively short span, it’s best suited for those who want a quick yet meaningful introduction to Tbilisi rather than an exhaustive, day-long deep dive.

What We Love About the Tour

Two standout features are the quality of tastings and the insider knowledge shared by guides. The 15 tastings aren’t just samples—they’re a carefully curated journey through Georgia’s culinary landscape, from Khinkali (delicious, juicy dumplings) to local wines and sweet treats like churchkhela and gozinaki.

Guides like Irina and George are often praised for making the history and culture of Georgia come alive with stories that make the landmarks more meaningful. Reviewers frequently comment on how much they learn while having fun, noting their guides’ friendliness and expertise.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour’s itinerary offers a well-rounded mix of sights, tastings, and local flavor.

• Starting from a cozy local café, you’re welcomed with refreshments before jumping into the heart of the city.
• The Dry Bridge Market is a highlight for its lively atmosphere and photo opportunities, especially if you love markets filled with antiques, crafts, and local vendors.
• A leisurely walk through Dedaena Park provides scenic views and a chance to relax in a green space amid urban surroundings.
• Passing by the Presidential Palace, you get a quick glimpse of the city’s political center—great for photo enthusiasts.
• The secret stop introduces you to local snacks and desserts, a favorite among reviewers for its authentic taste and atmosphere.
• Visiting the Rezo Gabriadze Theater, with its quirky clock tower, is both charming and photogenic.
• The Anchiskhati Basilica offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient religious roots, with some reviewers noting it as a peaceful and historic spot.
• Walking along Ioane Shavteli Street showcases local architecture and vibrant street life.
• The Bridge of Peace is a modern marvel, perfect for photos and appreciating contemporary design.
• Rike Park and the surrounding squares give a sense of the city’s lively modern pulse, combined with panoramic views of the river and hills.
• Ending with a wine tasting at a local bar, you’re introduced to Georgia’s celebrated wine culture, including Qvevri wines, which are unique to the region.

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The Tastings: A Foodie’s Dream

Expect a variety of 15 tastings that reflect Georgia’s diverse flavors. Typical offerings include Khinkali with different fillings—beef, mushroom, potato-cheese, and plain potato—each offering a slightly different taste of local comfort food.

Sweet treats like churchkhela (nut-stuffed candied fruit) and gozinaki (honey-nut bar) add a sweet finish, while Tkemali sauce (made from wild plums) and Ajika (spicy condiment) give insight into Georgian flavor profiles.

Wine tasting is a highlight, with options spanning white, dry, semi-sweet, and Qvevri wines—the traditional clay vessel method adds texture and complexity to Georgia’s wine reputation. The inclusion of Chacha, a local spirit, rounds out the tasting experience.

What Tour Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise their guides, calling them knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Many note that the tour is a great way to meet the city’s highlights in just a few hours, with one saying, “the food and wine tastings were excellent,” and another praising the picking up and dropping off service, which makes it especially convenient for travelers arriving or staying centrally.

Several mention that they felt the tour was good value for money, given the amount of food, drink, and sightseeing packed into a short window. One person even described their guide as “a local friend,” highlighting the personal connection and insider tips that come with small-group tours.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is typically 2 to 4 hours long, with flexible starting times depending on availability. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is rare for city tours and adds significant convenience. The small-group or private options ensure a more personalized experience—perfect if you prefer a more intimate setting.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the route covers various neighborhoods and landmarks. Since the tour is primarily walking, large luggage or oversized bags are not allowed, a consideration if you’re arriving with substantial luggage.

Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance—all features that add peace of mind, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Tbilisi’s most iconic sights combined with a taste of local cuisine. Food lovers will find the 15 tastings a highlight, offering an authentic and diverse culinary snapshot.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the storytelling and landmarks like the Anchiskhati Basilica and the Presidential Palace, while wine aficionados will relish the opportunity to sample traditional Georgian wines and spirits.

It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small groups or private tours, enhancing the personal touch and flexibility. If you’re arriving in Tbilisi and need a quick but comprehensive city introduction, this tour will fit the bill perfectly.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Tbilisi’s Old and New City offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, history, and food. The inclusion of 15 tastings, from savory dumplings to local wines and sweets, ensures your senses are fully engaged. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, make the experience warm and memorable, turning a sightseeing walk into a journey through Georgia’s culture.

The tour’s small group or private format makes it suitable for those seeking a personalized experience, while the hotel pickup and drop-off elevate its convenience. Its duration—between 2 and 4 hours—makes it an excellent choice for a day’s introduction to Tbilisi without feeling rushed.

This tour offers fantastic value for anyone eager to learn about Georgia’s capital while enjoying some of the best local flavors. It’s a perfect start for foodies, history buffs, or first-time visitors wanting to capture the city’s spirit in a manageable, engaging way.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on availability and group pace.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, which makes it very convenient, especially if you’re new to the city.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because there will be a moderate amount of walking through different neighborhoods.

Are small groups or private tours available?
Yes, both options are offered, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the tastings included in the tour?
Expect a variety of traditional Georgian foods, wines, and spirits, including Khinkali, churchkhela, Gozinaki, Tkemali sauce, Ajika, and Chacha.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users because of the walking involved.

Do I need to pay for anything besides the tour?
All tastings and entrance fees are included in the tour price. Additional drinks or food outside the scheduled tastings are extra.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Is the tour good for a short stay in Tbilisi?
Absolutely. Its concise format makes it an excellent way to get a quick but thorough feel for the city’s highlights and flavors.

This Tbilisi tour combines the best of history, scenery, and culinary delights—crafted perfectly for travelers eager to experience the city’s warmth and vibrancy without overextending themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: