Tbilisi Old Town: Walking Tour, Sulphur Baths & Cable Car

Summary

Old town stories sulphur baths bakery stops tbilisi cable car ride

You’ll walk Tbilisi’s winding Old Town streets with a local guide, taste fresh khachapuri at a neighborhood bakery, ride the cable car above city rooftops, and listen to stories behind ancient churches and monuments. Expect laughter, unexpected flavors, and moments that linger long after you leave Georgia.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly tripped over a stray cat right outside the sulphur baths — not exactly the grand entrance I’d pictured for my first day in Tbilisi’s Old Town. Our guide, Tamuna, just grinned and said that cats here have “old souls.” The air smelled faintly of minerals and bread; there was this low hum from the baths mixed with someone playing accordion nearby. It felt like the city was trying to introduce itself all at once, in smells and sounds instead of words.

We wandered down Shardeni Street (it’s busier than I expected — people laughing, vendors waving), and Tamuna pointed out the Tamada statue. She explained how every Georgian feast needs a toastmaster. I tried to pronounce “supra” properly but butchered it; she laughed and told me not to worry, “everyone does.” That moment felt warmer than any guidebook tip. Later we ducked into a tiny bakery — you can smell khachapuri before you see it. The baker handed us pieces straight from the oven; I burned my tongue a bit but honestly, worth it.

The Bridge of Peace looks almost too modern for this place, but somehow fits. We crossed it as evening set in, light bouncing off the glass and river below. There were kids chasing each other near Rike Park while we waited for the cable car. The ride up is quick but gives you this wild view over Tbilisi — old rooftops, church domes, even those EU flags flapping like they’re in on some secret. At the top, Mother Georgia stands with her sword and wine cup; Tamuna said she watches over everyone here. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear church bells at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tbilisi Old Town highlights

• Visit monument near Dry Bridge
• See the oldest church in Tbilisi
• Walk across the Bridge of Peace
• Pass by Shardeni Street
• Explore Gabriadze theatre and clock tower
• Visit Sioni Complex and Cathedral
• View Tamada Statue near Sioni Cathedral
• Pass by monument in front of Metekhi Church
• Observe EU flags blowing in the wind
• Visit the Great Synagogue building
• See monument by David Monavardishvili
• Walk through Rike Park
• Take cable car to mountain top
• Enjoy views from mountain top
• Visit Mother of Georgia monument

Top questions

How long is the Tbilisi Old Town walking tour?

The tour duration includes travel time and usually lasts several hours as you explore key sites around Old Town Tbilisi.

Is pickup included for this Tbilisi walking tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Do I need to follow a dress code for visiting churches?

Yes, there is a dress code required when entering churches on this tour.

Are pictures allowed inside Tbilisi churches?

No, taking pictures inside the church is not allowed during this tour.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour may not be recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to walking distances and terrain.

Does the tour include food or wine tasting?

You’ll stop at a traditional bakery to try local dishes like khachapuri; wine tasting requires participants to be at least 18 years old.

What languages do guides speak on this Tbilisi Old Town tour?

The guides are locals who can provide insights in multiple languages depending on availability.

Is the cable car ride included in the price?

Yes, your ticket includes a cable car ride up to see panoramic views of Tbilisi.

What’s included

Your day includes professional local guide service throughout historic Tbilisi’s Old Town neighborhoods plus a scenic cable car ride over the city rooftops. You’ll also get time to sample fresh-baked Georgian specialties at an authentic bakery along the way before finishing near Mother Georgia monument overlooking everything below.