Soulful Tbilisi: city and locals

What to expect

Walk through the Old Town
We will start our walk from the central city square of Freedom, walk along the currently popular tourist street, which was once called the Armenian Bazaar, reach Meidan and the Shardeni district - the center of city trade in the 17-18th centuries. During the walk through the Old Town, I will tell you about the way of life and main activities of the city dwellers of that time; about the cult of the vine and wine, about who a true Georgian Tamada is, and how to behave if you suddenly find yourself at a Georgian feast, which is sure to happen to you! You will learn why the grapevine in Georgia is almost a shrine. I will show you wine shops, restaurants, and hookah lounges, tell you where and what you must try, what and where is best to buy. Let's admire the mosaic on the miniature tower of Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater, made by the master himself. And if we're lucky, we'll meet a real angel who lives in this very tower.

Narikala Fortress and ancient churches
On the way, we will visit ancient churches, where I will tell you the history of Georgian Christianity. We will take the cable car up to the Narikala fortress, from where the whole city is at our feet. The Armenian district, the Muslim district, the district where mainly Jews lived. Every nation has contributed to the development and appearance of the city, and all these peoples have peacefully and harmoniously coexisted in Tbilisi for many thousands of years.

History of the sulfur baths
Through the ancient narrow streets, we will descend to the district of the famous Tbilisi sulfur baths. Baths were visited not only for reasons of hygiene, it was a whole ritual, with its own features and rules, which you will also learn about. You can peek inside and book a room for the evening to feel the invigorating power of the hot underground springs, which gave birth to and named the city. The main thing is to order the services of a special bath attendant.

New Tbilisi and new people
I will show you a quarter of the city that was built outside the city fortress walls. I will tell you why and how it significantly differs from Old Tbilisi. A different era, different goals, and of course, completely different residents, but no less beautiful Tbilisi district with its stories and mysteries.