Tbilisi Old Town Walking Tour with Cable Car & Wine Tasting

Summary

Explore Tbilisi Landmarks on Foot and by Cable Car

You’ll wander Tbilisi’s oldest streets, ride up to Narikala Fortress for sweeping views, visit ancient churches, and finish with authentic Georgian wine—all led by someone who knows every corner.

What’s the experience like?

Right after stepping out into Tbilisi’s old town, I caught that mix of fresh bread from a nearby bakery and the sharp scent of sulphur drifting from the bath district. Our guide, Lasha, waved us over near Metekhi Church—he knew every shortcut through these winding lanes. The church itself sits above the river, its stone walls holding centuries of stories. Lasha pointed out how King Vakhtang Gorgasali first built here, and you can still spot his statue watching over the city. It’s easy to lose track of time just looking at the view across the water.

The cable car up to Narikala Fortress is quick but gives you a real sense of how hilly this city is. Up top, there’s a breeze that carries the sound of church bells from below and sometimes even laughter from kids playing in the Botanical Garden. The fortress has seen better days—chunks missing here and there—but that’s part of its charm. Locals call it “Mother Fortress,” and you get why when you see how it stands guard over everything.

We wandered down through narrow alleys lined with colorful balconies, past Sioni Cathedral where people still light candles for Saint Nina. The Bridge of Peace looks almost out of place—glass and steel shining in the sun—but somehow it fits. At Anchiskhati Basilica, our guide told us about its survival through invasions; you can feel how old it is just by running your hand along the cool stone inside.

One thing I didn’t expect: we passed Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre right as a little clockwork show started—locals stopped to watch too. By late afternoon, we ended up in a tiny wine cellar tucked behind a wooden door off Erekle II Street. The owner poured us saperavi straight from a clay qvevri; earthy, bold, nothing like supermarket wine back home. If you’re curious about Tbilisi’s layers—old legends mixed with daily life—you’ll find them on this walk.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Historic Tbilisi

• Visit Metekhi Cathedral
• Explore Narikala Fortress
• Walk through Botanical Garden (pass by)
• Stroll Bath District (pass by)
• Visit Cathedral of Sioni
• See Bridge of Peace
• Visit Anchiskhati Basilica
• Pass by Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theatre

Top questions

How much walking is involved? Is it very hilly?

There are some steep parts (especially near Narikala), but we take breaks and go at an easy pace. Good shoes help!

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

If you’re comfortable walking for a few hours (with some hills), it should be fine. Not recommended if mobility is limited.

Do we actually taste local Georgian wines?

Yes! There’s a proper tasting in a cozy cellar—usually saperavi or rkatsiteli varieties straight from local producers.

What happens if it rains?

Tours run rain or shine—just bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed. Some stops are indoors or covered.

What’s included

You’ll get a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories you won’t find online, all entrance fees (including cable car), and a genuine Georgian wine tasting at the end.