Tbilisi: Street Art & Dezerter Bazaar Tour w/ Tastings

This tour promises to reveal a different face of Tbilisi—one full of color, flavor, and local life. It’s designed for travelers eager to explore the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, street art scenes, and traditional markets. If you’re drawn to discovering the city’s underground arts, or simply want a taste of real Georgian culture, this experience is worth considering.

What we love about this tour is how it strikes a balance between eye-opening street art and genuine local flavor, plus the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make it all engaging. The tasting of Georgian wine, chacha, and local sweets adds a delicious layer of authenticity. On the downside, it’s a three-hour walk, so those with mobility concerns might want to plan accordingly.

This tour suits curious travelers who want to go beyond the usual sights, appreciate street art and urban culture, and enjoy sampling regional foods and drinks. It’s perfect for small groups, and the flexible start times make it adaptable for different itineraries. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, it offers a compelling way to connect with Tbilisi’s vibrant local scene.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: A genuine peek into Tbilisi’s underground art and local markets, away from typical tourist routes.
• Expert Guides: You’ll benefit from friendly, knowledgeable guides ready to share insights and local secrets.
• Cultural & Artistic Highlights: From vibrant street murals to historic residences, you’ll see the city’s creative spirit firsthand.
• Tastings & Flavors: Enjoy authentic Georgian wine, chacha, and traditional sweets like churchkhela and dried fruits.
• Accessible & Flexible: The tour is about 3 hours, with hotel pickup and small-group settings for a more personal experience.
• Practicality & Value: The tour offers a well-rounded mix of art, culture, and cuisine at a reasonable price point, considering the included tastings and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tbilisi Street Art & Market Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour begins with convenient hotel pickups from two central locations in Tbilisi, such as Dodo Abashidze Street or Ramaz Davitashvili Street. This door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics and lets you start the adventure stress-free. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially after a long flight or a busy day.

The total duration is three hours, covering roughly 2-3 miles of walking. The pace is relaxed enough to soak in the sights, take photos, and chat with your guide without feeling rushed. You’ll be part of a small group, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions.

Exploring Fabrika & the Artistic Heart of Tbilisi

The first major stop is Fabrika, a well-known hub for creativity and youth culture in Tbilisi. This former sewing factory has transformed into a lively hostel, artist studios, cafes, and shops. It’s a magnet for street artists and urban creatives—perfect for seeing the city’s modern, alternative side.

Here, we loved the way the guide pointed out murals, graffiti, and hidden murals tucked away in alleyways. The atmosphere is vibrant and raw, a true reflection of Tbilisi’s evolving artistic identity. Plus, the stop offers a photo opportunity and a chance to sip coffee or tea while soaking in the street art scene.

Hidden Corners & Scenic Views

Next, the tour takes you through some lesser-known alleys and “secret stops,” each offering scenic views and unique murals. These hidden gems aren’t just eye candy—they’re stories on walls, often created by local artists expressing their views and cultural identity.

The guide’s commentary makes these moments richer, explaining the themes behind the artworks or sharing stories about the artists. This engagement makes the murals more than just pretty pictures; they become windows into local life and societal issues.

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The Historic Residence & Cultural Insights

As you walk, you’ll pass by historically significant sites, including the former residence of a renowned Georgian painter. While brief, these stops add context, showing how Tbilisi’s past influences its modern-day artistry.

It’s a reminder that street art and local culture are intertwined with the city’s history. Such insights resonate with travelers who want to understand the deeper story behind what they’re seeing.

Tbilisi Railway Station & the Vibrant Dezerter Bazaar

The final major stop is at the sprawling Dezerter Bazaar, the largest market in Tbilisi. Here, the air is filled with a cacophony of sounds, smells, and colors that define local life. You’ll see vendors selling dried fruits, cheeses, spices, and regional snacks, offering a sensory overload—think bursts of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors.

This is where you get to taste Georgia’s famed churchkhela, tklapi, and dried fruits, alongside regional cheeses. The tastings are a highlight, with expert guides explaining the significance of these traditional foods. The market’s lively ambiance, with its mix of locals shopping and vendors calling out, offers an authentic slice of everyday life.

Regional Drinks & Culinary Delights

The tour includes sampling local wine—famous for its age-old traditions—and a shot of chacha, a potent Georgian spirit often compared to grappa. Several reviews mention how much guests appreciated the variety and quality of the tastings, with some raving about discovering the best Americano in town nearby.

The tasting experience isn’t just about sipping drinks—it’s about connecting with Georgian culture through food. Food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to try regional delicacies directly from vendors, adding richness to the tour.

Flexibility & Post-Tour Options

Once the tour concludes, you’re encouraged to stay at the market, continue shopping, or head back to your accommodation. The tour’s flexible drop-off makes it easy to plan the rest of your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who crave authentic insights and off-the-beaten-path adventures. If you’re interested in street art, local markets, or food and drink culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also an excellent choice for small groups or those who prefer a more intimate, guided experience.

You’ll love the engaging guides, the chance to see Tbilisi’s modern artistic expression, and taste regional specialties. It’s suited for those with moderate walking ability—wear comfortable shoes, and you’ll be fine.

On the downside, if you’re looking for a fast-paced, extensive tour or have limited time, this might feel a bit leisurely. But for those wanting depth and authenticity, it’s an ideal fit.

Price & Value

Considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, multiple tastings, and a knowledgeable guide, the price offers good value. The tastings of local wine, chacha, and traditional sweets add an extra layer of authenticity that many other tours don’t include.

The small-group setting makes it more personal, and the focus on hidden gems makes it stand out from generic city tours. Think of it as a cultural snack platter—small bites that leave you wanting more, but in a good way.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll walk around for about 2-3 miles.
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing—the tour runs in any weather.
• Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light.
• The tour operates in English and can be booked with flexible cancellation policies.
• Keep an eye out for scenic views and photo stops along the way—they’re part of the fun.
• After the tour, don’t hesitate to linger at the market or explore the surrounding neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from two central locations in Tbilisi, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, covering about 2-3 miles of walking at a relaxed pace.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers a guide, traditional wine tasting, a shot of chacha, local sweets, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Can I join if I don’t speak Georgian?
Absolutely, the tour is guided in English, and reviews highlight how friendly and engaging guides make the experience accessible.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in any weather. Just dress appropriately for rain or shine.

What kind of stops will I see?
Expect a mix of street art, scenic alleys, historic residences, and the bustling Dezerter Bazaar.

Are there opportunities to buy souvenirs?
Yes, the market offers local products, and your guide can recommend spots for authentic purchases.

Is this tour good for families?
While suitable for most, consider the walking distance and weather conditions for children or elderly family members.

What makes this tour different from regular city sightseeing?
It focuses on urban street art, local markets, and authentic tastings, offering a more personal and vibrant look at Tbilisi’s everyday life.

Final Thoughts

If you want to see a side of Tbilisi that’s vibrant, colorful, and full of stories, this tour is a fantastic choice. It balances urban art, local flavor, and cultural insights in a way that’s both fun and educational. The guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge, passion, and ability to make you feel like a local.

For those who enjoy authentic experiences, delicious tastings, and artistic discovery, this three-hour walk offers a memorable glimpse into Tbilisi’s soul. It’s especially valuable for travelers wanting an active, engaging, and intimate tour that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

While it’s not a comprehensive city overview, it provides a meaningful, playful slice of what makes Tbilisi so special—its art, its food, and its lively street life. Give it a try if you want to come away with stories, surprises, and a new appreciation for Georgia’s capital city.

You can check availability for your dates here: