Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings

Discovering Tbilisi’s charm through a guided walk is a fantastic way to get a genuine feel for this lively city. The Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & 10 Tastings offers not only a comprehensive look at key sights but also a flavorful immersion into Georgian cuisine and culture. From the iconic Gabriadze Clock Tower to the colorful Shardeni street houses, this tour covers it all with a friendly guide who brings history and local life alive.

What I especially appreciate about this experience is the opportunity to sample more than 10 local delicacies and drinks—including unique Georgian wines, spicy adjika, and fresh pastries—without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group size (limited to just 10 people) ensures plenty of attention from your guide, who can tailor the experience to your interests. That said, one thing to consider is that this tour is primarily designed for those comfortable walking and not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so be prepared for some uneven streets and a moderate pace.

This tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a deep dive into Old Tbilisi’s sights and flavors, all led by guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness. If you’re looking for a way to see the city’s highlights while tasting authentic Georgian treats, this is a top choice—just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and come ready to enjoy a flavorful, informative walk.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Experience: Over 10 tastings of wine, pastries, spices, and more, in addition to sightseeing.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides like Giorgi, Luka, and Zezva make the stories and tastes come alive.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From famous landmarks like the Mother of Georgia to hidden gems like spice shops and bakeries.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Georgia’s history, food traditions, and local customs from your guide.
• Value for Money: Combining sightseeing, tastings, and cultural stories in just 3.5 hours makes for a well-rounded experience.

Exploring Old Tbilisi with a Local Touch

Taking a guided walk through Old Tbilisi is one of the best ways I’ve seen to truly understand this city’s essence. This tour, offered by Real Georgia Tours, is a perfect introduction for first-timers or anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of Georgian culture. It’s designed to be a 3.5-hour journey that balances key sights, lesser-known spots, and plenty of tasty surprises.

Starting Point and Meeting Up

Your adventure begins at the Berikaoba monument, where your guide waits to greet you. The meeting spot, with its lively dancing figures, sets the tone for a fun, engaging experience. Because the activity ends right back at this point, you can easily continue exploring afterward or head for dinner knowing you’ve seen the best of Old Tbilisi in one go.

Walking Through the Old Town

The tour takes you through the cozy, winding streets of Old Tbilisi, revealing both its famous landmarks and hidden corners. You’ll marvel at the Clock Tower of Gabriadze Theater, a whimsical structure that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, and cross the Peace Bridge, a modern architectural statement that contrasts nicely with the historic surroundings.

Expect to stroll past colorful houses on Shardeni Street, where outdoor cafes and street musicians create a lively atmosphere. Your guide will share stories about the city’s past, explaining how Tbilisi’s unique architecture and multicultural influences shaped the vibrant neighborhood you’re exploring.

Hidden Gems & Authentic Stops

One of the highlights is a visit to a historic bakery, where you can taste delicious pastries—a real treat for your taste buds. The bakery often surprises visitors with its age-old recipes and the aroma of freshly baked bread. Next, you venture into a spice shop, where the air is filled with top-quality spices and homemade chacha—a traditional grape spirit that packs a punch.

Many reviews praise guides like Zezva and Luka for their wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor, making each stop informative and fun. For example, one reviewer mentioned how Zezva was “the most knowledgeable, amenable, and friendliest guide,” making the experience both educational and comfortable.

Georgian Wine and Tasting Highlights

No Georgian tour is complete without wine, and this one delivers with multiple tastings: white dry, semi-sweet, amber, and dry red wines, plus Chacha tasting. These are not only delicious but also give insight into Georgia’s rich winemaking tradition—considered one of the oldest in the world. The guide will explain the significance of each style, and you’ll have plenty of chances to chat about the wines and ask questions.

A well-loved part of the tour is the cheese and pastry sampling—including Khachapuri cheese pie, beans pie, and a sweet pastry with cream filling—which offers a delicious glimpse into Georgian culinary culture. Many reviewers rave about the quality and authenticity of these tastings, describing them as “delicious” and “the best Georgian pastries” they’ve had.

Why This Tour Works Well

The small-group format means you’re not just a face in the crowd; guides can adapt the pace based on the group and focus on what interests you most. Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Giorgi and Luka make the experience engaging with their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.

Most of all, this tour offers a balanced mixture of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling. You’ll see the highlights, discover some lesser-known spots, and come away with a better understanding of Georgian culture—all in just over three hours.

Price, Logistics, and Practical Tips

Considering the cost includes more than 10 tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to see the highlights of Old Tbilisi, this tour is excellent value. It’s priced to be accessible for most travelers, especially when you weigh the cost of individual tastings versus the all-included experience.

Since the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, make sure to arrive on foot or arrange your own transfer. The meeting spot at the Berikaoba monument is central and easy to find if you’re staying in or near the Old Town.

Clothing and shoes should be comfortable, as you’ll be walking on cobbled streets and possibly uneven surfaces. Women should carry a scarf or hat if they plan to visit churches, as modest dress is required, but scarves are typically provided if needed.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a blend of history, culture, and food. It’s especially good for those who like small-group sizes, personal interaction, and authentic tastings. Foodies and wine lovers will find it particularly rewarding. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options, but for most, this walk offers a perfect taste of Tbilisi’s heart.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you need to make your own way to the starting location at the Berikaoba monument.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

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

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly suited for those able to walk on cobbled streets; it’s not recommended for mobility-impaired travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended; women visiting churches should bring a scarf or hat.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all the tastings, including wines, cheese pies, pastries, and spices, are included.

Can I learn about Georgian wine?
Absolutely, the guide will explain the significance of different wine styles and the country’s long history of winemaking.

What are some highlights I shouldn’t miss?
Highlights include the Gabriadze Clock Tower, Mother of Georgia, spice shop, bakery, and the wine tastings.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors?
Yes, it’s an excellent way to get an overview of the city’s main sights and flavors in a relaxed, friendly setting.

How many people will be on the tour?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a cozy and engaging experience.

To sum it up, the Old Tbilisi Highlights Walking Tour with Wine & Tastings offers an authentic, engaging way to discover this historic city. If you enjoy walking, local stories, and tasting regional delicacies, you’ll find plenty to love here. With enthusiastic guides and a well-curated itinerary, it’s an experience that balances sightseeing with savoring the flavors of Georgia. Perfect for curious travelers eager to see the city’s soul through its streets and tastes.