Tbilisi and Mtskheta Walking Tour – Old Capital of Georgia

The Tbilisi and Mtskheta Walking Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Georgia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Delving into the ancient capitals, travelers can enjoy the vibrant streets of Tbilisi and the sacred sites of Mtskheta, both UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and curious explorers alike. From the iconic Peace Bridge to the majestic Svetiskhoveli Cathedral, each landmark holds a compelling story waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re interested in architecture, spirituality, or simply soaking in the unique atmosphere, this walking tour offers an enthralling glimpse into Georgia’s captivating past.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Walking Tours In Tbilisi.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the historic capitals of Tbilisi and Mtskheta, showcasing Georgia’s rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels.
• Highlights include the Peace Bridge, Narikala Fortress, Sameba Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, and Svetiskhoveli Cathedral, offering a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
• The tour includes a local driver/guide, private transportation, bottled water, and the option to purchase food and drinks.
• Accessibility is noted, with the tour not wheelchair-accessible but stroller-accessible for families and accommodations available for a range of participants.
• The tour boasts a 5.0-star rating, with competitive pricing and a lowest price guarantee, making it an affordable and high-quality option for exploring Tbilisi and Mtskheta.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the old and new capitals of Georgia – Tbilisi and Mtskheta.

Highlights include the iconic Peace Bridge, the ancient Narikala Fortress, the magnificent Sameba Cathedral, the historic Jvari Monastery, and the grand Svetiskhoveli Cathedral.

Guests will learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of both cities, seeing Georgia’s captivating past.

The tour includes a local driver/guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transportation, bottled water, and the opportunity to purchase food, drinks, and entrance fees as needed.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Inclusions and Logistics

The full-day walking tour includes a local driver/guide to lead the exploration. Pickup points are available, with a start time of 10:00 am. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour provides transport by private vehicle, bottled water, and access to food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages for purchase. Entrance fees at museums, cable, and funicular are also included.

Inclusions	Logistics	Accessibility
Local driver/guide	Pickup points available	Dress code: formal
Hotel pick-up and drop-off	Start time: 10:00 am	Not wheelchair accessible
Transport by private vehicle	Confirmation within 48 hours	Minimum drinking age: 21 years
Bottled water	Free cancellation up to 24 hours	Stroller accessible

Accessibility and Requirements

The walking tour has some accessibility requirements to note.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants can sit on laps, with infant seats available.

Visitors should dress in formal attire for the tour. The minimum drinking age is 21, and vegetarian options can be accommodated if requested at the time of booking.

Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility concerns may want to consider the accessibility limitations. The tour caters to a wide range of participants, with some accommodations available.

Highlights of Tbilisi

Nestled along the banks of the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi captivates visitors with its rich tapestry of history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

The Peace Bridge, a striking modern structure, links the old and new parts of the city. Atop Narikala Fortress, the ruins of an ancient citadel, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Sameba Cathedral, the principal cathedral of the Georgian Orthodox Church, is an architectural marvel with its golden domes.

Wandering the narrow streets of the Old Town, one can discover charming buildings, lively cafes, and artisan workshops.

From the historic to the contemporary, Tbilisi offers a captivating blend of experiences for the discerning traveler.

Highlights of Mtskheta

Just a short drive north of Tbilisi lies Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors can explore the Jvari Monastery, a magnificent 6th-century church perched atop a hill overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.

The Svetiskhoveli Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, is another must-see. It’s believed to contain the robe of Christ and is considered one of the most sacred places in the country.

Wander the charming old town streets, browse local handicrafts, and stop for a traditional Georgian lunch before heading back to Tbilisi.

History of Tbilisi

Founded in the 5th century AD, Tbilisi has a long and storied history. The city has been the capital of Georgia since the 6th century and has served as a major economic and cultural center. Over the centuries, Tbilisi has been influenced by various empires and cultures, including Persian, Byzantine, and Russian. This diversity is reflected in the city’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Key Events	Dates	Impact
Establishment of Tbilisi	5th century AD	Became the capital of Georgia
Persian Conquest	7th century AD	Influenced architecture and culture
Russian Annexation	19th century AD	Modernization and urbanization
Independence	1991 AD	Tbilisi reemerged as the capital of Georgia

Today, Tbilisi is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is a hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

History of Mtskheta

Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia, boasts a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BC.

It served as the religious center of the country, home to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the most sacred places in the Georgian Orthodox Church.

The Jvari Monastery, perched atop a mountain, offers stunning views over the city and the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.

Mtskheta played a crucial role in the Christianization of Georgia in the 4th century and remains an important pilgrimage site.

Today, the historic town center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving Georgia’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Reviews and Pricing

The walking tour of Tbilisi and Mtskheta has received glowing reviews from past participants. With a 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews, the tour is a hit with travelers. The price of SEK 1,541.56 per group (up to 6 people) is very affordable, and the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring customers get the best value.

Key Details	Pricing
Pickup Points Available	SEK 1,541.56 per group (up to 6)
Start Time: 10:00 am	Lowest Price Guarantee
Free Cancellation up to 24 Hours	–

The tour includes a local driver/guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, private vehicle transportation, bottled water, and entrance fees, making it a comprehensive and convenient experience. Considering the positive reviews and fair pricing, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the historic cities of Tbilisi and Mtskheta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photographs during the tour. The tour overview indicates that the tour includes various historical and architectural sites, allowing ample opportunities for visitors to capture memorable photos throughout the day’s activities.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for the tour is formal. Participants are expected to wear neat and presentable attire, as the tour involves visiting historical and religious sites where a formal dress code is required.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for this tour. Participants can join as a solo traveler or in a group up to 6 people. The price is per group, so the more travelers, the lower the per-person cost.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour, but infants must sit on laps and child seats are available. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Most travelers can participate in this tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary generally can’t be customized, but customers can request certain modifications at the time of booking, such as adding or removing specific sites, adjusting start/end times, or accommodating dietary needs. The tour operator will try to accommodate reasonable requests based on availability.

The Sum Up

The Tbilisi and Mtskheta Walking Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Georgia’s rich history and culture. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore Tbilisi’s iconic landmarks, like the Peace Bridge and Sameba Cathedral, before delving into the ancient capital of Mtskheta, home to the UNESCO-listed Jvari Monastery and Svetiskhoveli Cathedral. This tour is a must for history enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable experience and insight into Georgia’s enduring legacy.