Tbilisi: Irine’s Pub Crawls

If you’re looking to experience Tbilisi’s renowned nightlife in a way that’s both fun and authentic, Irine’s Pub Crawls might be just the ticket. This 5-hour adventure, led by passionate local women, takes you through five different bars, showcasing the best of Georgian wine, lively drinking games, and hidden venues known only to locals. While I haven’t personally joined this crawl, the glowing reviews and comprehensive itinerary paint a picture of a lively, friendly, and well-organized experience that appeals to travelers eager to meet new people and dive into Tbilisi’s vibrant bar scene.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines culture with social fun—imagine tasting the best Georgian wines paired with cheese boards, then heading into local bars to sip tasty shots and maybe even sing and dance with newfound friends. Plus, the guides seem genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience both safe and welcoming. A small potential consideration: since the tour is scheduled for 5 hours and includes multiple stops, it might be quite a lively pace, so it’s best suited for those ready to participate wholeheartedly.

One of the standout features is the focus on friendly, safe environments for all genders, races, and backgrounds—a priority clearly reflected in the reviews and the tour approach. Guided by Irine, Alex, Luca, and Saba, you’re in good hands with hosts who know the city well and are dedicated to creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere. The tour is also flexible around weather since it runs rain or shine, which is great news for travelers worried about unpredictable Georgia weather.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Georgian Experience: The tour showcases the best local wines and hidden bar gems you might not find on your own.
• Friendly Guides: Guides like Irine and her team are celebrated for their warmth and deep knowledge of Tbilisi’s nightlife.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Unlimited Georgian wine paired with cheese at the first stop, plus special shots in each bar, make it a great value.
• Lively Atmosphere: Expect drinking games, singing, and dancing — a true social highlight.
• Inclusive and Safe: The tour emphasizes a friendly, welcoming vibe for everyone, regardless of background.
• Ideal for Social Travelers: Perfect if you’re keen to meet people and have a fun night out with little planning.

Starting Point: Fabrika Hostel – Your Gateway to the Night

The adventure begins in the lively lobby of Fabrika Hostel, a popular hub for travelers and locals alike. Meeting here means you’re already in the heart of Tbilisi’s youth and arts scene, setting the tone for a vibrant night ahead. Your guides, including Irine herself, will be waiting to kick things off. This starting point is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or want to explore Fabrika’s cafes and shops beforehand.

The First Stop: Georgian Wine and Cheese at a Cozy Wine Bar

From Fabrika, you’ll walk just five minutes to the first bar, a cozy spot where unlimited Georgian wine flows freely alongside cheese boards. This is the ideal place to relax, introduce yourself to your fellow crawlers, and get to know your guides. According to one review, “the first place is the best to get to know each other and play games,” and I’d agree that starting with wine and good company sets a friendly, laid-back tone for the night.

Here, you’ll enjoy tasting some delicious local wines—Georgia is famous for its unique qvevri wines—and playing simple drinking games to break the ice. The guides, like Irine, are praised for making everyone feel comfortable quickly, which is key when meeting strangers in a social setting.

Bars 2 to 5: Discovering Hidden Gems & Local Nightlife

After the wine introduction, you’ll head on foot to four more bars, each with its own distinct charm. These are carefully selected local spots that showcase the diverse facets of Tbilisi’s nightlife—some might be tucked away behind unassuming doors, others lively and bustling. Each bar provides a welcome shot, adding to the sense of tradition and fun.

Expect to sip on tasty shots, enjoy lively conversations, and maybe even sing karaoke or dance if the mood strikes. The tour emphasizes fun, social drinking, and the guides’ in-depth knowledge of the city ensures you get a glimpse of hidden local favorites rather than tourist traps. Several reviews commend the guides’ expertise—“she knows everywhere and everyone,” one reviewer notes—making every stop feel personal and authentic.

Drinking Games, Shots, and the Spirit of Georgia

A key highlight of this experience is the combination of drinking games and shots that keep energy high. The guides encourage participation and foster camaraderie, making the night feel more like a celebration than just bar hopping. Many visitors mention how the guides like Irene, Alex, Luca, and Saba “made us all feel comfortable,” which is essential in creating a relaxed, fun environment.

The tour’s emphasis on unlimited Georgian wine and specialized shots (four in total) adds a generous touch of value. You’re getting a curated experience that balances taste, atmosphere, and social interaction—perfect for travelers wanting a lively night out without the hassle of planning individual bar visits.

The Final Stop: Wrapping up on Ivane Machabeli Street

The crawl concludes back on Ivane Machabeli Street, a lively area with a mix of traditional and modern bars. This is where you’ll say goodbye to new friends and perhaps continue exploring on your own. The tour’s ending point is convenient for those staying nearby or wanting to continue a night of fun.

Practical Details & Value

This experience runs for about 5 hours, making it a substantial night of entertainment without overstaying its welcome. The meeting point at Fabrika Hostel is easy to access, and the tour includes five bars, unlimited Georgian wine, four shots, and drinking games—a package that offers both value and variety.

The tour is priced for those who want a guided experience with friendly hosts, rather than a DIY pub crawl. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to meet locals and other travelers alike. The guides’ emphasis on safety and inclusiveness means it’s suitable for a wide audience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in trying authentic Georgian wine in a social setting, this pub crawl offers a fantastic introduction. It’s especially suitable for those who want to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed, lively atmosphere. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic local venues, and a touch of fun with drinking games will find it rewarding. It’s also a good choice for first-timers in Tbilisi looking for a safe, organized way to experience the nightlife.

However, if you’re not keen on drinking or prefer more subdued evenings, this might be less suitable. Also, since the tour is quite active, those with mobility issues or fatigue might want to consider their pace.

Irine’s Pub Crawls offers a lively, authentic taste of Tbilisi’s vibrant nightlife. With a knowledgeable, friendly guide, unlimited Georgian wine, and visits to hidden local bars, it provides a memorable evening that’s both fun and culturally enriching. The emphasis on safety, inclusiveness, and social fun makes it a great choice for solo travelers, couples, and groups keen to connect over drinks in a relaxed environment.

The combination of delicious wine, engaging drinking games, and insightful guides makes for an experience that feels genuine and spirited. Whether you’re a wine lover, a social butterfly, or simply curious about Tbilisi’s bar scene, this pub crawl is likely to leave you with new friends, good stories, and a deeper appreciation for Georgian hospitality.

Is transportation between stops provided?
No, all stops are within walking distance from the starting point, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

What’s included in the tour price?
You’ll get access to five bars, unlimited Georgian wine with cheese boards at the first stop, and four shots at different bars, plus participation in drinking games.

Are food and other drinks included?
Only the wine and welcome shots are included. Food isn’t included, so you might want to eat beforehand or bring snacks.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins in the lobby of Fabrika Hostel, where your guide will be waiting.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about five hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each bar and socialize.

Is the tour suitable for children or under 18s?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for weather conditions, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

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

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, transportation is not provided; you’ll meet at the Fabrika Hostel and finish on Ivane Machabeli Street.

In all, Irine’s Pub Crawls offers a warm-hearted, lively glimpse into Tbilisi’s nightlife. It’s a wonderful way to make friends, taste authentic Georgian wine, and experience the city’s friendly, festive spirit firsthand.