Mtkvari River: Our most recommended tours and activities

Tbilisi: Old Town Walking Tour

1. Tbilisi: Old Town Walking Tour

Even if you only have a short time in Tbilisi, you have to spend at least a half-day exploring the Old Town. The architecture in the city’s historic district is a mixture of Georgian, Byzantine, Oriental, and Neo-Classical European styles. Among the sites you will visit are the Orthodox Anchiskhati Basilica, the city’s oldest church. You will also see the 13th-century churches of Sioni and Metekhi, the magnificent Narikala Fortress, perched on a hill with superb views of the city below, and the classic Freedom Square. You will then continue to one of Tbilisi’s newest attractions, the Bridge of Peace, which opened in 2010 over the River Mtkvari (also known as the Kura River). Tbilisi’s compact size means you can easily explore the nearby Synagogue, Armenian Church and Mosque, in addition to the Georgian Orthodox churches so fundamental to Georgian culture. This peaceful co-existence of the various religions helps emphasize modern Georgian tolerance.

Tbilisi: River Sightseeing Boat Tour with Welcome Drink

2. Tbilisi: River Sightseeing Boat Tour with Welcome Drink

-Looking for an interesting adventure in Tbilisi as first time visitor? -Then this experience is for you! Sail down the river - Get ready to explore old city and enjoy the views on the relaxing ride. You'll pass main highlights by cliffs, the Metekhi church, Rike Park and even more! Grab your coffee and make your city sightseeing special with boat ride!

First impression of Tbilisi-3 hours walking tour

3. First impression of Tbilisi-3 hours walking tour

We start the walk from Rose Revolution Square and go through Rustaveli Avenue. We see Tbilisi’s most important and magnificent buildings, visit the heart of the city, and walk down to the old town, one of the hottest rising destinations for travelers in recent years. There’s not enough space in this paragraph to describe all the important sites of Old City, but with our friendly and knowledgeable guides, you can feel like you have a live Google. We finish our tour with wine tasting, an absolute must-do on your first day in Georgia. Meeting point is located at Rose revolution square. You will see the Big Bicycle monument and our tour leaders wearing red scarf. If you are coming by subway, the Shota Rustaveli metro is a 50-meter from the meeting point. Because this is the central area, you have an extensive choice of hotels within walking distance. If you prefer to take a hotel far from Tbilisi city center, you can always use the Taxi app and come by car. Taxi is exceptionally cheap in Georgia.If you are a group of more than four people or live at our partner hotel, we will pick you up 45 minutes before the start time and take you to the meeting point. If you go to Paris, you must stroll the Champs Elysees, and when you visit Tbilisi, this is the one avenue you must explore. We explore Tbilisi’s most important and magnificent buildings and Many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and souvenirs. We reach the main square of Georgia-Liberty Square, at the heart of Tbilisi. In 2010 Rezo Gabriadze built a unique clock tower next to the marionette theatre in Tbilisi’s old town. An angel comes out with a small hammer to ring the bell every hour. There is a small puppet theatre inside the tower, and twice a day, at 12:00 and 19:00, you can see a show– “The Circle of Life.” Rezo decorated the building with hundreds of tiles, which he designed himself, and then it instantly became a prominent architectural attraction in Tbilisi. People often call it the Tower with a Clock or The Tower with an Angel. Bridge of Peace is the attraction one wouldn’t want to miss in Tbilisi. A pedestrian glass and steel bridge in a bow-shaped design sits over the Mtkvari River in the Georgian capital. It was officially opened in May 2010. The bridge was brought to Georgia from Italy in 200 unassembled components. The bridge is 156 meters long and has more than 10 000 LED bulbs built-in that are switched. On a daily 90 minutes before sunset. Marvel at the narrow streets and wooden balconies of the Old Town.We will walk in hidden streets, which tourists find difficult to find. We also walk at famous Shardeni Street. Shardeni Street is one of the most popular and beautiful streets in Tbilisi. This pedestrian street is so well known that any guest that travels to Georgia never leaves this country without visiting Shardeni Street.

Tbilisi: City and Backstreets Alternative Walking Tour

4. Tbilisi: City and Backstreets Alternative Walking Tour

Since the 19th century, Tbilisi began to grow and develop rapidly. The centre went beyond the boundaries of the "old Asian city". The left bank of the Mtkvari River began to be actively developed, filling the streets with new architecture, fashionable shops, factories and immigrants from Europe and Russia. Bourgeois New Tiflis has become a symbol of change. Traditions intertwined with the spirit of the era and created a unique image of the capital of Georgia. From Freedom square, we will head through Orbeliani plaza to the city's left bank. We will wander between the rows of the Dry Bridge flea market, looking for past treasures of the past. Then look at the pedestrian area of Agmashenebeli Avenue, go to the famous Fabrika and finally reach Marjanishvili square through backstreets and beautiful gardens.

From Tbilisi: Private Tour to Rabati Castle-Vardzia-Borjomi

5. From Tbilisi: Private Tour to Rabati Castle-Vardzia-Borjomi

Explore southern Georgia and see the most important monuments, including the Rabati Castle complex or the fascinating Vardzia cave complex. Visit the world-renowned Borjomi Resort. Start your tour at Rabati Castle, a 13th-century medieval castle complex, and admire the influence of different cultures reflected in the architecture. See a mosque, orthodox church, catholic church, and a synagog. Follow the upper Mtkvari River through narrow canyons at Aspindza along a valley. Arrive at Vardzia, famed for its paintings and unique architecture. Tour the bell tower, main church, cave dwellings, rooms, chapels, pharmacy, and wine cellars. Finally, arrive at the Borjomi Resort, a hydro-thermal health spa resort in the southern region of Samtskhe-Javakheti. Walk in the Borjomi Central Park and taste Borjomi mineral water which has unique healing qualities.

Tbilisi: Guided History, Culture & Architecture Walking Tour

6. Tbilisi: Guided History, Culture & Architecture Walking Tour

Welcome to Tbilisi, the energetic and active capital of Georgia! Take a walking tour to discover the rich history, cultural diversity and architectural wonders that make this city so unique. Our tour starts on Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's main artery, and you will be fascinated by the combination of old and new. Marvel at the elegant facades of the 19th century buildings, adorned with ornate balconies and decorations. Along the way, we will pass the National Museum of Georgia, a treasure trove of historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into Georgia's fascinating past. Our next stop is in the heart of the city at Freedom Square, the central square of Tbilisi. It is an important historical and cultural landmark. Take a moment to admire the statue of St. George slaying the dragon in the center of the square. From here, continue through charming streets and narrow alleys where a story is waiting to be discovered at every corner. We head to the old part of the city, where Tbilisi's unique architecture is at its best. We walk through the stunning Old Town with its streets and charming courtyards. We will visit the clock of Rezo Gabriadze, Inside the tower there is a puppet theater. Here you can see the performance "Circle of Life". We will definitely also visit Anchiskhati Cathedral, which is one of the oldest churches in Tbilisi and dates back to the 6th century. Here you can really travel back in time. One of the most important places of our tour is Narikala Castle. This ancient castle is located on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city and the winding river Mtkvari. Before reaching the famous Abanotubni district, we can enjoy the picturesque landscape for a while. In Abanotuban, the quarter of baths, there are the famous sulfur baths that gave Tbilisi its name (tbili means "warm" in Georgian). Here you will be told the story of the founding of Tbilisi. Admire the characteristic domed roofs of the baths and breathe in the soothing scents wafting through the air. If you feel adventurous, relax in one of these traditional baths known for their healing properties. Our tour ends with a visit to the Peace Bridge. This modern marvel spans the river and connects the old and new parts of the city. Walk along the bridge and marvel at its stunning design, which is especially fascinating when illuminated at night. Throughout the tour you will have the opportunity to taste the culinary specialties of Tbilisi. Don't forget to try khachapuri, a delicious bread filled with cheese, and drink a glass of locally produced wine, known for its unique taste. Whether you're fascinated by historical sights, interested in cultural heritage or just want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, our Tbilisi Walking Tour promises an unforgettable experience. So put on your walking shoes, bring your curiosity and let's explore the charming streets of Tbilisi together!

Full-Day Tbilisi & Mtskheta Tour

7. Full-Day Tbilisi & Mtskheta Tour

Even if you only have a short time in Georgia, you have to spend at least a half-day exploring Tbilisi’s Old Town. The architecture in the city’s historic district is a beautiful mixture of Georgian, Byzantine, Oriental and Neo-Classical European styles. It dates back more than 1,500 years and was founded by Vakhtang Gorgasali, King of Georgia (known as Iberia at the time) in the second half of the 5th-Century AD. The name derives from the Georgian word for warm, “T'pili.” Sliced by the River Mtkvari, which divides the city west and east, the lovely setting is ripe for exploring. Among the sites you will visit is the Greek Orthodox Anchiskhati Basilica, the city’s oldest church. You will also see the 13th-Century Churches of Sioni and Metekhi, the magnificent Narikala Fortress, perched on a hill with superb views of the city below, and the classical Freedom Square. Continue to one of Tbilisi’s newest attractions, the Bridge of Peace, which opened in 2010 over the River Mtkvari (also known as the Kura River). Tbilisi’s compact size means you can easily explore the nearby Synagogue, Armenian Church and Mosque, in addition to the Georgian Orthodox churches so fundamental to Georgian culture. Peaceful co-existence of the various religions helps emphasize Georgian tolerance. End your Tbilisi walking tour with a visit to the sulfur baths quarter of Abanotubani to see the most famous bath, Chreli Abano. According to legend, it was when King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s falcon companion fell that Tbilisi’s “warm” sulfur springs were discovered; helping to give it its Georgian name. Continue in the afternoon to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mtskheta, capital of Georgia (formerly Iberia) from the 3rd-Century BC until the 5th-Century AD. It was the site of early Christian activity, and the place where Christianity was proclaimed as the state religion of Georgia in 319. Located about 12 miles (20 kilometers) northwest of Tbilisi at the confluence of the Rivers Mtkvari and Aragvi, Mtskheta remains the center of the Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church. After a drive to Mtskheta by comfortable air-conditioned coach you will explore the restored streets of the Old Town and visit the most important architectural monuments, such as the 6th-Century Jvari Monastery erected on a hill that overlooks the town. Take in the stunning views of the town and the merging of the rivers. Continue to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the main seat of the Catholic Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The cathedral contains an important masterpiece of Christian church wall painting that you must peek inside to see. You will then be transferred back to Tbilisi for your hotel drop-off.

Tbilisi: Scenic Instagram Tour

8. Tbilisi: Scenic Instagram Tour

Meet your guide and experience the beauty of this city's early-morning streets while the light is perfect for taking pictures. Start your exploration of the city's monuments and breathtaking viewpoints, including a visit to the Orthodox Anchiskhati Basilica, the city's oldest church. You'll also see the 13th-century churches of Sioni and Metekhi, the magnificent Narikala Fortress, perched on a hill with superb views of the city below, and the classical Freedom Square. Continue to one of Tbilisi's newest attractions, the Bridge of Peace, which opened in 2010 over the River Mtkvari (also known as the Kura River). The city's compact size means you can easily explore the nearby Synagogue, Armenian Church and Mosque, in addition to the Georgian Orthodox churches which are so fundamental to Georgian culture. Learn about the peaceful co-existence of the various religions in Georgia. Your photographer will share useful photography tips and tricks about composition, framing, settings, and some truly fascinating techniques at each site. If you choose the full-day tour, you'll visit many more places of interest outside of Tbilisi. 

Tbilisi: River Sightseeing Tour in Old City via Boat

9. Tbilisi: River Sightseeing Tour in Old City via Boat

Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, offers a captivating river sightseeing tour in its Old City through a fast boat. This tour allows visitors to explore the city's scenic beauty from a unique perspective. The fast boat ride takes you along the picturesque Mtkvari River, which flows through the heart of Tbilisi. Take a seat, relax and get ready for the views of Tbilisi's top attractions from airboat. Discover the charm and highlights of the historical capital city of Georgia through different position! You’ll discover Metekhi church, Peace bridge and have panoramic views of the Old city area together with other landmarks and monuments. The boat will take you till the lovely waterfall and show you natural point in the busy part of old city! This is the perfect activity for solos, couples, small groups & families with children. There is also a bar where you can purchase snacks and famous, unique Georgian wine! Overall, the river sightseeing tour in Tbilisi's Old City via a fast boat is a fantastic way to explore the city's beauty and immerse yourself in local sightseeing. It allows you to appreciate the architectural wonders and natural landscapes that make Tbilisi a truly remarkable destination!

Tbilisi Highlights Half Day Walking Tour

10. Tbilisi Highlights Half Day Walking Tour

Even if you only have a short time in Tbilisi, you have to spend at least a half-day exploring the Old Town. The architecture in the city’s historic district is a mixture of Georgian, Byzantine, Oriental and Neo-Classical European styles. It dates back more than 1,500 years and was founded by Vakhtang Gorgasali, King of Georgia (known as Iberia at the time) in the second half of the 5th-Century AD. The name derives from the Georgian word for warm, “T'pili.” Sliced by the River Mtkvari, which divides the city west and east, the lovely setting is ripe for exploring. Among the sites you will visit is the Greek Orthodox Anchiskhati Basilica, the city’s oldest church. You will also see the 13th-Century Churches of Sioni and Metekhi, the magnificent Narikala Fortress, perched on a hill with superb views of the city below, and the classical Freedom Square. Continue to one of Tbilisi’s newest attractions, the Bridge of Peace, which opened in 2010 over the River Mtkvari (also known as the Kura River). Tbilisi’s compact size means you can easily explore the nearby Synagogue, Armenian Church and Mosque, in addition to the Georgian Orthodox churches so fundamental to Georgian culture. Peaceful co-existence of the various religions helps emphasize Georgian tolerance. Complete your tour with a visit to the sulfur baths quarter of Abanotubani to see the most famous bath, Chreli Abano. According to legend, it was when King Vakhtang Gorgasali’s falcon companion fell that Tbilisi’s “warm” sulfur springs were discovered; helping to give it its Georgian name.

Add dates

Things to do in
Mtkvari River

14 activities found
Sort by:

Go beyond Mtkvari River

Explore all

Other Sightseeing Options in Mtkvari River

Want to discover all there is to do in Mtkvari River? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Mtkvari River

well organised- plus the team that runs the boat tour makes great effort to look after the guests. i really recommend this short and sweet cruise if you’ve already seen plenty of Tbilisi highlights on land.

Esto was a great tour guide and very knowledgable! We really appreciated his flexibility with beginning our tour, as we ran into traffic and were a bit late. We would definitely book other tours with Esto!

Theo our tour guide was very hospitable, enthusiastic, knowledgeable! Her English was great, she can elaborate on any subject related to the Georgian culture! I had a great time Thank you