Duplicating
Tour copied successfully!

Places (POIs) visited during this tour

Place #1
Distance: 0.13mi , Attraction : Arts and Entertainment
Map Pin
28 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi, Georgia
POI 1 Tour Image
Opera House
For starters, where are we? Europe, or Asia? Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, geographically, Georgia is situated in the South Caucasus region, which is typically considered part of the Eurasian boundary. While Georgia is often associated with both Europe and Asia, culturally and politically, the country aligns itself more with Europe. It is also a member of European organizations like the Council of Europe and aspires to join the European Union, further solidifying its ties with Europe. So, Tbilisi is in a region that bridges both continents. So in addition to the Bosphorus area in Istanbul, where we are now gives you the opportunity to be on two continents on the same day.

Now, let’s talk about what we see around us, as we stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, the main thoroughfare and cultural heart of Tbilisi. Named after the 12th-century Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli, it stretches for about 1.5 kilometers, connecting Freedom (Liberty) Square to Rustaveli Square. The avenue is lined with a blend of historic landmarks, government buildings, theatres, shops, cafés, and museums, making it one of the most vibrant and significant streets in the city.

Originally known as Golovin Avenue, it was renamed in 1918 after the Soviet Red Army invaded Georgia and overthrew the Democratic Republic of Georgia. The avenue underwent significant renovation in the 2000s, and today it features a blend of modern buildings and classical architectural styles.The architecture along the avenue is a mix of neoclassical, Soviet, and modern styles, reflecting the city’s complex history. We will talk more about the architecture of the city later in the tour.

The Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, to our left, is one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Georgia, and has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1851.

The building itself is a masterpiece of Moorish Revival architecture, designed by Italian architect Giovanni Scudieri, and later reconstructed after fires and renovations. Its ornate facade and stunning interior, featuring a grand chandelier and beautifully detailed hall, make it a must-see attraction for visitors.

The theatre is named after Georgian composer Zakaria Paliashvili, who is best known for incorporating traditional Georgian folk music into his operas. It hosts performances of both Georgian and international works of opera and ballet, showcasing the talent of local and international artists. The theatre has played a crucial role in fostering Georgian culture and remains a vibrant center for the performing arts in the region.

Look up. Are the colors of the Georgian flag flying above the street? Sometimes the street is adorned and lined with the Red and White colors of the flag.
Let's keep walking down Rustaveli.

Read More

  http://www.opera.ge/eng/home
Place #2
Distance: 0.08mi , Attraction : Statues
Map Pin
MQXW+VQ9, Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi, Georgia
POI 2 Tour Image
The Bronze Statues of Tbilisi
Something to keep your eye out for on Rustaveli, are the The Bronze Statues of Tbilisi, a series of public sculptures scattered throughout the city, contributing to its unique charm and artistic landscape. These statues depict historical figures, everyday people, and moments from Georgian culture, offering an intimate connection to the city's past and present.

One of the most iconic bronze statues is the "Berikaoba," located on Rustaveli Avenue. It represents performers from a traditional Georgian masquerade festival, symbolizing celebration and humor. Another well-known bronze figure is the "Tamada," situated in the Old Town. The Tamada is a Georgian toastmaster holding a wine goblet, symbolizing the important role of toasting and hospitality in Georgian culture. The picture you see on your app is of this charming toastmaster.

You’ll also find statues that celebrate everyday life, such as the "Old Tbilisi Men," depicting older men sitting and talking, or "Women Selling Flowers," which highlights the city’s street vendors. These statues not only beautify the city but also tell stories of Georgian traditions, personalities, and social life, giving passersby a glimpse into the heart of Tbilisi.

  https://georgiaabout.com/2014/02/09/bronze-statuettes-in-tbilisis-rustaveli-avenue/
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour

Map Pin Place 1 Opera House
Map Pin Place 2 The Bronze Statues of Tbilisi
Map Pin Place 3 Kashueti Church
Map Pin Place 4 Parliament
Map Pin Place 5 Soviet Occupation and Georgian National Museum
Map Pin Place 6 Museum of Books
Map Pin Place 7 Orbeliani Square
Map Pin Place 8 Old Town Ruins and Tbilisi City Wall
Map Pin Place 9 Story Time
Map Pin Place 10 The Gabriadze Theatre
Map Pin Place 11 Clock Tower
Map Pin Place 12 Anchiskhati Basilica
Map Pin Place 13 Cuisine
Map Pin Place 14 Kura River
Map Pin Place 15 Bridge of Peace
Map Pin Place 16 Rike Park
Map Pin Place 17 The Dancing Fountains
Map Pin Place 18 Mother of Georgia Tramway
Map Pin Place 19 Fortress of Isani
Map Pin Place 20 Berlin Wall Memorial
Map Pin Place 21 The Statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali
Map Pin Place 22 Metekhi Church
Map Pin Place 23 Sololaki Hill
Map Pin Place 24 Coffee Culture
Map Pin Place 25 Sulphur Bath Houses
Map Pin Place 26 Waterfall Square And Gorge
Map Pin Place 27 Wine Ice Cream
Map Pin Place 28 Architecture
Map Pin Place 29 Picture Time and Gorgasali Square
Map Pin Place 30 Shardeni Street
Map Pin Place 31 Sioni Street
Map Pin Place 32 The Zion Cathedral of the Dormition
Map Pin Place 33 Urban Legends
Map Pin Place 34 Museum of History of Georgian Jews
Map Pin Place 35 Royal District Theatre
Map Pin Place 36 Voronya Cave
Map Pin Place 37 Liberty Square



This is a premium tour, click below for complete access!

 
How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
  • No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
  • Walk at your own pace.
  • No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
  • Take the tour in your preferred language.
  • Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
  • Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
  • Enjoy preferred prices.

What's included?
  • A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
  • Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
  • Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
  • Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
  • Earphones (highly recommended).
  • Smartphone.
  • Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).
  • Tickets to the attractions on your tour.
  • Food and drinks
  • Physical tour guide.

Have any questions about this tour? Or a general travel / self-guided tours question? That's completely natural

+ How long does this tour take?
Most travelers complete this tour in approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace, time spent at each stop, and optional detours. Having said that, please remember that self-guided tours are extremly flexible (you can start, pause, continue anytime) and everyone has their own pace.
+ What does this tour include?
This self-guided walking tour includes 37 stops, covering top attractions such as Opera House, The Bronze Statues of Tbilisi, Kashueti Church, Parliament, Soviet Occupation and Georgian National Museum.
+ Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at Opera House (Address: 28 Shota Rustaveli Ave, T'bilisi, Georgia). You can begin the tour there or join from any stop along the route.
+ What type of tour is this?
This is a self-guided walking tour designed to be completed on foot through walkable areas and city highlights.
+ Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, this is a self-guided walking tour, so you can start anytime and explore at your own pace. You can pause, skip stops, or spend more time at places that interest you. You can even split it into multiple days. Explore however feels right for you.
+ Is this a walkable tour?
Yes, this tour is fully walkable and designed to follow a comfortable route through pedestrian-friendly areas.
+ Do I need anything in order to take the tour?
There is one thing that you need - A mobile phone (with the UCPlaces app installed and active location services, and a cellular data plan with a decent signal for downloading the tour) and comfortable walking shoes! But here are some recommendations for a great experience: 1. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a mobile charger/battery. 2. Bring earphones for the best experience. 3. Bring a bottle of water and dress appropriately according to the weather forecast.
+ How will I navigate from point to point during the tour?
The tour uses GPS-based navigation through the UCPlaces app, with automatic audio playback and step-by-step directions between stops. Just follow the route (cross streets carefully using crosswalks) and listen to the audio guide. Use the resume feature to continue the from where you recently stopped (or closed the app). Easily skip or go back to stops.
+ Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, self-guided tours are ideal for families and small groups, allowing everyone to explore comfortably without being tied to a fixed schedule.
+ What makes a self-guided tour better than a guided tour?
Self-guided tours are more flexible, affordable, and personalized. You can avoid crowds, choose your pace, and focus on the stops that interest you most.
+ I installed the app and it's now asking for GPS and media access permissions, why?
The app is your tour-guide, it needs to know where you are located on the map to be able to trigger the points of interest. It also needs access to audio and media files to provide you with this experience.
+ What happens if there are unexpected roadblocks or navigation issues?
We have been working hard to deliver a great experience. Though you may run into unexpected obstacles (the world is constantly changing), our app has multiple features and mechanisms in place to help you overcome them, including: AI assistance, force play an audio if you can't reach the stop, skip or return to stops, automatic rerouting and more.
+ Can I take the tour in my language?
Though all of our tours are primarily in English, many tours are muyltilingual (including: Spanish, German, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Hebrew, French, Arabic and more...). The tour language options depend on the specific tour - You can easily check which languages are available in the tour screen!