Join Levan Giorgadze, a theater-trained tour guide and founder of Tbilisi Free Walking Tours, as he unveils the gems of Tbilisi, Georgia. Discover why the city is a hidden treasure, from its 8,000-year-old wine traditions to vibrant Soviet-era architecture. Levan shares authentic tips on savoring khinkali, connecting with locals, and exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods. With engaging stories and insights, he highlights the warmth of Georgian hospitality and the culture that makes traveling through Tbilisi an unforgettable experience.
01:01:58
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Georgia's Ancient Amber Wine
Georgia's amber wine is unique, made in underground clay amphoras with skin and seeds.
This ancient tradition dates back 8,000 years, making Georgia the birthplace of wine.
insights INSIGHT
Georgia’s Remarkable Microclimates
Georgia has 29 diverse microclimates resulting in mountains, sea, forests, semi-deserts, and ski resorts.
This geographic diversity allows travelers to experience vastly different landscapes within one small country.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Stories From Travelers Levan Guided
Levan met a traveler who journeyed on a unicycle from England to China, along the Silk Road.
He also helped a Spanish traveler who experienced psychological distress during his trip and was grateful for the assistance later.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Why should you travel to Tbilisi, Georgia? While you might come for the 8,000-year-old wine, you’ll want to stay for the wild hospitality and a city full of surprises.
Levan Giorgadze is a theater-trained tour guide and founder of Tbilisi Free Walking Tours, where he shares Georgia’s rich history and culture with travelers from all over the world. A passionate ambassador for his homeland, Levan’s deep knowledge and playful storytelling have made him one of the most sought-after local guides in the region.
In this episode, we’re talking all things Georgia (the country!), from ancient wine traditions to offbeat Soviet architecture, cultural quirks, and tips for connecting with locals in Tbilisi and beyond.
If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi, Georgia or curious about why it’s become one of the most talked-about destinations, this episode is a must. Levan shares what makes the city so special, from it’s special amber wines made in underground clay jars to off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and other hidden gems in Tbilisi. You’ll learn why you should never cut a khinkali and what it’s like to lead a free walking tour in Tbilisi for nine years. You’ll get insider tips on the best local wine bars, Soviet-era architecture, and how to connect with locals on a deeper level. Whether you're after a cultural travel experience or just want the best Tbilisi travel tips, this episode will help you see the city like a local.
What do you think makes a place truly unforgettable - the food, the people, the stories, or something else entirely? I'd love to hear what you think, and I hope you’ll share bysending me an audio message.
Tune In To Learn:
Why Georgian amber wine might be the oldest winemaking tradition in the world
How Georgia's diverse microclimates shape its food, nature, and wine
Advice to connect with locals (and maybe get invited to dinner)
What travelers can learn from locals, and what Levan’s learned from travelers
Why you should never cut a khinkali dumpling
How Levan started one of the first free walking tours in Tbilisi
Hidden gems in Tbilisi, including the SkyBridge and Soviet-era print house
Why the “Chronicle of Georgia” monument is worth the trip out of town
Where to find the best markets, street food, and people-watching opportunities
What to bring home from Georgia besides a bottle of wine
Zero To Travel Podcast