travelling georgia country

Wander-Lush

How to Visit Georgia the Country in 2024: The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide

• The Caucasus

Everything you need to know to visit Georgia in 2024, including up-to-date city and regional guides, insider tips, and a wealth of resources collected from my Georgia travel blog.

Last updated: January 2024

If Georgia (the country) features on your travel wish list, then I have good news for you: There has never been a better time to visit Georgia!

This small but mighty nation in the South Caucasus strikes an almost perfect balance between convenience and a sense of adventure. You can get around Georgia with relative ease while still feeling (at times) like you’re well and truly off the beaten path and experiencing something few other travellers before you have.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my time travelling Georgia and living in Tbilisi, it’s that everyone has their own experience of Georgia. Many people (myself included) fall in love and end up moving here.

I love Georgia to bits, but I also have a realistic understanding of the ups and downs involved with travelling here. Since I started writing my Georgia travel blog back in 2017, I’ve always tried to paint a full and honest picture.

This Georgia Travel Guide brings together all my knowledge and experience. I cover everything from transport logistics, safety and budgeting to cultural etiquette and responsible travel tips.

Please note: This page contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more .

Visiting Georgia in 2024

Georgia is open to tourists . There are no longer any special restrictions or entry requirements for Georgia.

This Ministry of Foreign Affairs page is updated regularly to reflect any developments and should be your first point of reference for official advice.

If you have questions about Georgia, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment or email me directly. If you’d like some feedback on your Georgia itinerary or you need assistance planning your trip, please see my Itinerary Planning Page .

Georgia travel blogs

All my 100+ Georgia travel blogs, stories and guides, organised by theme/geography. Each link opens in a new tab so you can bookmark the pages you want to come back to later.

Featured Georgia guides

What’s New in Georgia in 2024: New Openings, Trending Destinations & Travel Predictions

2024 Georgia Calendar: Festivals, Holidays & Milestones to Plan Your Trip Around

The Ultimate Georgia Itinerary for 2024: How to Spend 1-4 Weeks in Georgia

52 Unique Things to Do in Tbilisi: The Ultimate Guide

Popular destinations.

• Unique things to do in Tbilisi
• Best restaurants in Tbilisi
• Best bars in Tbilisi
• Where to stay in Tbilisi
• Detailed guide to visiting the Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
• Where to see live folk music & dance in Tbilisi
• How to visit the Chronicles of Georgia monument

• Kutaisi city guide & 3-day itinerary
• Hidden gems in Kutaisi
• Where to stay in Kutaisi
• Best restaurants in Kutaisi
• How to travel between Kutaisi and Tbilisi
• Chiatura day trip
• Tskaltubo day trip
• Canyons & caves day trip
• Vani Sulfur Pool day trip
• Tskhrajvari day trip
• See all Kutaisi Guides →

• Batumi city guide
• How to get to Batumi from Tbilisi
• How to get to Batumi from Kutaisi
• Batumi Botanical Garden
• Batumi street art guide
• Staying at Kartuli, Batumi’s best hotel
• See all Batumi Guides →

Kakheti Wine Region

• Detailed Kakheti Wine Region guide & itinerary
• How to get to Kakheti from Tbilisi
• Best Kakheti day tours from Tbilisi
• Telavi city guide
• Best hotels & wine chateaux in Kakheti
• Where to celebrate the Rtveli wine harvest in Kakheti
• Visiting Vashlovani National Park
• Guide to Big Shiraki, abandoned Soviet airbase
• Things to do in Dedoplistskaro
• See all Kakheti Guides →

• Detailed Kazbegi travel guide
• How to get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi
• Where to stay in Kazbegi
• Gergeti Trinity Church Hike
• Where to stop on the Georgian Military Highway
• Visit the the Giant Head Sculptures in Sno village

Caucasus mountains

• Kazbegi, Svaneti & Tusheti regions compared
• How to get to Mestia (Svaneti)
• Guide to Tusheti, Georgia’s most remote mountain region
• How to get to Tusheti
• Guide to Racha, Georgia’s alternative mountain region
• Where to go skiing in Georgia
• How to get to Gudauri from Tbilisi

Explore Georgia by region

Eastern Georgia

• Mtskheta day trip guide
• What to expect from the Stalin Museum in Gori
• Gori city guide
• Uplistsikhe Cave City
• David Gareja Cave Monastery
• Homestays & Kist culture in Pankisi Valley
• Nazy’s Guest House

Southern Georgia

• Complete guide to Borjomi
• Vardzia Cave City
• Rabati Castle
• Akhaltsikhe city guide
• How to get to Vardzia
• Guide to Abastumani
• Guide to Meskheti region
• Guide to Tsalka & Javakheti
• Shaori Fortress hike
• Guide to Kvemo Kartli region
• Didgori Battle Memorial
• How to get to Bakuriani from Tbilisi

Western Georgia

• Zugdidi city guide
• Guide to Ozurgeti & Guria, Georgia’s tea region
• Things to do in Zestafoni
• Guide to visiting Martvili Canyon
• Guide to visiting Sairme
• Guide to visiting Sachkhere
• Guide to visiting Kobuleti
• Guide to visiting Poti
• Kolkheti National Park
• Nokalakevi Fortress & hot springs
• Machakhela Protected Areas
• Glamping Tago in Upper Adjara
• Sarpi & the Turkish border
• Guide to the Gonio Cross hike

Plan your trip to Georgia

Here are a few of my favourite resources for travel planning in Georgia.

Georgia travel resources

My best Georgia travel tips and trip planning resources.

Where to go in Georgia

• 40+ places to visit in Georgia
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi
• 10 best day trips from Batumi
• 6 best day trips from Kazbegi
• 7 best day trips from Borjomi

Itinerary ideas

• Georgia itinerary for 1-4 weeks
• Adventurous Georgia road trip itinerary
• Georgia Azerbaijan itinerary
• Caucasus itinerary

Seasonal guides

• Best time to visit Georgia: month-by-month comparison
• Where to go in Georgia in spring
• Where to go in Georgia in autumn
• Where to go in Georgia in winter
• Tbilisi in summer
• Tbilisi in autumn
• Tbilisi in winter
• Tbilisi in spring
• Where to see wildflowers in Georgia
• Snow in Tbilisi
• Christmas & New Year in Tbilisi
• Orthodox Easter in Georgia
• Kutaisi in winter

Essential travel tips

• 23 travel tips for Georgia
• Georgia safety advice

Responsible travel in Georgia

• Georgia travel budget tips
• Georgia packing list
• Where to buy a SIM card
• Where to store luggage in Tbilisi

Getting around

• How to get from Tbilisi airport to the city
• How to get from Kutaisi airport to the city centre
• How to get from Batumi airport to the city centre
• Tips for using taxis in Tbilisi
• Using GoTrip for budget-friendly transfers around Georgia
• Beginner’s guide to using marshrutka vans in Georgia
• Tips for hiring a car & driving in Georgia
• How to use the trains in Georgia

Special accommodations

• Best guesthouses in Georgia
• Best nature cabins in Georgia
• Glamping tents in Georgia
• Best boutique hotels in Tbilisi
• Best hostels in Tbilisi
• Fabrika Tbilisi
• Karma Hostel Martvili
• Lost Ridge Inn Sighnaghi
• Radisson Tsinandali (Kakheti)
• Tskaltubo Spa Resort

Georgian food

• 50 best restaurants in Tbilisi – the ultimate Tbilisi foodie guide!
• Top 10 Khinkali restaurants in Tbilisi →
• Where to eat breakfast in Tbilisi
• Bets cafes & coffee in Tbilisi
• Tbilisi restaurant etiquette
• Traditional Georgian desserts
• Traditional Georgian drinks
• Vegetarian Georgian dishes
• Meskhetian regional cuisine

Georgian wine

• Tbilisi wine guide – best bars, shops & degustations
• Best wineries in Kakheti
• Best wineries in Imereti
• Visiting Baia’s Wine near Kutaisi

Nature & outdoors

• Hiking in Tbilisi
• Best national parks in Georgia
• Hot springs in Georgia

Handicrafts & culture

• Best Georgian souvenirs & Tbilisi shopping guide
• Georgian designers & labels
• Live music & folk dance in Tbilisi
• Lelo Burti festival in Guria
• Textile lover’s guide to Georgia & the Caucasus
• Visit carpet & felt-makers in Kakheti region
• Visit a clay Qvevri workshop in Imereti
• Visit a pottery studio in Zugdidi

Georgia Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide will show you how to plan a trip to Georgia from start to finish. Structured around commonly asked questions, it offers stacks of practical tips and advice – including plenty of insider information you won’t find in any guidebook.

This guide is long and in-depth, so get ready! If you make it all the way to the end I promise you’ll come out the other side feeling more than fully prepared for your trip.

If you don’t have time to read everything or you’re already part-way through your planning, feel free to skip ahead using the links below.

Table of contents

Use these itineraries to start planning your adventure:.

Where is the country of Georgia? Is Georgia in Europe or Asia?

Georgia is located in the South Caucasus or Trans-Caucasus region between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains. It borders Russia to the north, Turkey to the south-west, Armenia to the south, Azerbaijan to the south-east, and the Black Sea to the west.

That’s the easy part. The second question, ‘Is Georgia in Europe, or is Georgia in Asia?’, is a little more complicated. The response you get depends on who you ask. Georgia is technically part of the Asian continent but to me, it feels more like Europe than Asia. For the most part anyway.

Georgia’s connection to Western Europe goes back to Hellenistic and Roman influences. After the fall of Constantinople, Georgia was seen as ‘the last outpost’ of the Christian world. Today, the country’s gaze is fixed even more resolutely westward, and Georgia aspires to join NATO and the EU. One of my favourite anecdotes on this topic is when Georgian politician Zurab Zhvania famously uttered, “I am Georgian, therefore I am European” when addressing the European Council in 1999.

Georgia is a crossroads country and has always toed the line. As one historian explained it to me, Georgians were humble and knew they needed to understand both worlds in order to thrive. Shota Rustaveli, the country’s literary hero, was well versed in both Christian literature and Sufi mysticism, for example. On a broader level, these forces combined to produce a unique worldview that influenced everything from Georgian poetry to the electric architecture in Tbilisi Old Town.

As an outpost on the Silk Road trading route , it benefited from centuries of cross-pollination – of religions, cultures, traditions and foods. Georgia took this heady broth of influences and added a pinch of something else to make it its own. The language, cuisine, architecture and spiritual traditions are distinctly, unmistakably Georgian.

One of the joys of getting to know Georgia is grappling with these beautiful contradictions and complexities. Not quite Asia, not quite Europe, Georgia doesn’t fit neatly into either category but rather makes its own rules.

Interesting facts about Georgia

• The country’s official name is Georgia, but to locals it’s known by its Georgian name, Sakartvelo .
• By area, the country of Georgia is almost half the size of the US state of Georgia . With a population approaching 4 million (more than a quarter of whom live in Tbilisi), Georgia has less than half the number of people than the state.
• Georgia was the second state to adopt Christianity as its official religion (the first was neighbouring Armenia). Today the country is predominantly Orthodox Christian and the church plays a very important role in modern society.
• Present-day Georgia was one of the first places where hominins settled out of Africa . In 2000, archaeologists discovered the earliest well-dated hominin fossils in Eurasia – at least 1.8 million years old – at Dmanisi in Kvemo Kartli region.
• Georgia is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Gelati Monastery, the Historical Monuments of Mtskheta, Upper Svaneti, and its newest listing, the Colchic Forests and Wetlands. Bagrati Cathedral was removed from the register in 2012 (when you visit, you’ll see why).
• Georgia is home to Europe’s highest continuously inhabited village , Bochorna (2,345 metres above sea level) in Tusheti region. Just one man, Doctor Irakli Khvedaguridze, lives there through the winter.
• Georgia is part of the Trans-Caucasus, which is considered one of the most linguistically diverse areas in the world . Not only do Georgia’s mountains offer spectacular views and hiking, they also hold beautiful cultures, customs and cuisines.
• There are more than 250 varieties of artisanal cheeses in Georgia , most of them native to the mountain regions and pastoral areas of Imereti and Adjara.
• Georgia earned the nickname ‘the Cradle of wine’ after archaeologists unearthed the earliest evidence of a winemaking tradition in southern Georgia (grape seeds and residue that are 8,000 years old).
• Georgia has a national holiday for self-care. Bedoba, celebrated every year on January 2, is a ‘day of luck’ that sets the tone for the year to come. It’s a time to do your favourite things – like drink wine and eat cheese!

Why visit Georgia?

Georgia is intriguing – but you don’t fork out for a plane ticket just because a country has an unusual location or it’s the star of trivia night.

Tourism in Georgia has been on the rise in a big way lately, so much so that it’s hard to pick up a travel magazine or scroll through a ‘top destinations’ list without seeing mention of it. The Caucasus region is having a moment, and Georgia is the centrefold.

What is it that draws so many people to visit Georgia? And more importantly, what is it that makes so many people come back again and again? Here are just some of the things that make Georgia special.

They spoke of Georgians as supermen, as great drinkers, great dancers, great musicians, great workers and lovers. And they spoke of the country in the Caucasus and around the Black Sea as a kind of second heaven. John Steinbeck

• The landscapes. In Soviet times, it was said that citizens who lived virtuous lives would be rewarded with an eternity not in heaven, but in Georgia. Even if you’ve never laced up a pair of hiking boots in your life there are countless ways to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty, from bathing in open-air hot springs to sleeping in village homestays.
• The cities. Beginning with Tbilisi, a city that bristles with creative energy and bubbles with history (quite literally – there’s hot springs right in the centre of town). Every city has its own character. I love them all.
• The food. Beyond the usual suspects Khinkali and Khachapuri , Georgian cuisine is a parallel universe of flavours and textures you likely haven’t ever encountered before. From regional cuisines such as Megrelian and Rachan to hearty mountain fare and Tbilisi chefs who put their modern spin on the classics, this country is nothing if not a tastebud pleaser.
• The wine. Georgia’s natural wine renaissance has put it on the international map. Qvevri wines made in shapely clay vessels, including full-bodied Saperavi and skin contact amber (or orange) wines, are the most well-known. I can’t think of another place where wine is so deeply intertwined with history and tradition.
• The legendary hospitality. Georgians are known for treating their guests like kings and queens and in my experience, people really are as generous as they’re made out to be. It’s not at all hard to connect with people on a meaningful level. You will never be lonely in Georgia.
• The history. Fair to say Georgian history is lesser-known outside the region. Every castle, monastery, fortress and cave city offers a hands-on history lesson. I find the myths and legends particularly fascinating.
• The Soviet throwbacks. Architecture buffs and urbexers alike are drawn to Georgia because of the Soviet connection. If you’re a fan of Brutalist architecture, abandoned buildings and Soviet-era mosaics, you will love Georgia.
• That other thing I can never put my finger on. There’s an atmosphere, an aura about Georgia that makes it unlike any other country I’ve been to. Part of it, I think, has to do with the country’s turbulent past and ongoing struggles, and the way people have held onto their identity and independence so fiercely through it all. It’s hard to describe, but I hope you understand what I mean after you’ve been around it yourself.

Incredible cuisine, an ancient wine culture, unparalleled mountain landscapes, fascinating cities, old-fashioned hospitality – Georgia has it all and then some.

Georgia highlights: Video

At the start of 2022, I made this short film to celebrate my 2-year Georgia anniversary. It showcases some of my most memorable travel experiences to date.

When is the best time to visit Georgia?

Overall best time to visit Georgia: Late spring or autumn.

The weather in Georgia varies quite dramatically depending on where you go, but the country’s climate is quite mild overall. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Georgia is in either late spring (late April to early June) or autumn (mid September to late October) . These months promise milder temperatures, ideal conditions for outdoor activities and hiking, and a range of cultural festivals and religious celebrations .

Georgia in summer

Good for: Beaches & summer festivals.

Summer (especially July and August) is Georgia’s peak season and by far the busiest time of year for tourism. Resorts along the Black Sea Coast operate at full capacity, and Georgia’s major cities swell to double or triple their off-season size.

Prices for accommodation and tours increase in-line with demand, and it can be more difficult to buy train tickets, for example, as domestic tourism also peaks.

The summer months are most suitable for mountain hiking and lounging on Georgia’s beaches . However, the stifling hot weather in Tbilisi especially (but also in Kutaisi and Batumi) means it’s not the most pleasant time of year to visit the cities.

One major advantage of travelling in summer is that mountain roads (including the Abano pass to Tusheti) are all but guaranteed to be open.

• Read next: How to beat the summer heat in Tbilisi .

Georgia in autumn

Good for: Wine & culture.

Georgia’s high season typically extends to September, but crowds start to dissipate as soon as the weather starts to cool off. The autumn months (September to early November) are a great time to visit Georgia, especially if you’re interested in wine.

The annual grape harvest ( Rtveli ) takes place in September/early October. This is traditionally a time of feasting, festivities and fun, especially in Eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region, the main grape-growing hub. Tbilisoba , Georgia’s biggest cultural festival , takes place in Tbilisi every October.

• Read next: Where to go for the Rtveli wine harvest .

Milder temperatures, scarce rainfall and colourful fall foliage make autumn a great time for hiking and outdoor activities, too.

• Read next: Where to go in Georgia in autumn for fall colours & festivals .
• The best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn .

Georgia in winter

Good for: Quieter cities, Christmas festivities & winter sports.

Tbilisi in December or January is relatively mild compared to other cities in the region; but winters are extremely harsh in Georgia’s mountainous areas. Some remote villages are completely closed off. The Black Sea coast and Batumi empty out over winter, although most businesses remain open.

Aside from the parched landscape and air pollution (a growing problem in Tbilisi), winter can be a very nice time to travel in Georgia, especially in December when blue-sky days are common.

• Read next: The best things to do in Tbilisi in winter .

Orthodox Christmas and New Year celebrations (both of which fall roughly a week after their Roman calendar counterparts) give the streets of Tbilisi a festive atmosphere. Georgia’s ski season normally starts in late December and runs through to late April. Resorts in Gudauri and Bakuriani are busy throughout January and February.

Georgia in spring

Good for: Hiking, food & festivals.

Spring, especially late April and May, is one of my favourite times to be in Georgia. Winter usually lingers until Orthodox Easter (mid-April). After that, temperatures warm up, wildflowers and cherry blossoms come into bloom, and conditions are perfect for mountain hiking.

Spring wine, spring produce, and spring celebrations, including the New Wine Festival in Tbilisi, help Georgia thaw out from the cold. Crowds are much sparser than in summer, with the exception of the Nowruz holiday (usually mid-March), which usually sees an influx of visitors from Iran and Azerbaijan.

The downside of travelling in spring is that you may have to contend with heavy rainfall , as May is the wettest month of the year in Tbilisi.

• Read next: The best things to do in Tbilisi in spring .

Visa requirements for Georgia

This section provides a broad overview only. For up-to-date visa information or specific advice about your circumstances, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia website .

One year visa-free

Georgia has an extremely generous visa exemption policy. Currently, passport holders from 98 countries (including the EU, Australia, the US and the UK) are permitted to stay in Georgia for up to a year without a visa.

Better still, under the waiver scheme you’re allowed to work (keep in mind that you automatically become a tax resident of Georgia after 183 days in-country), start a business, open a bank account, apply for temporary residency, and even buy property.

Because this is a visa exemption , the visa-free period can easily be ‘reactivated’ by crossing the border and re-entering on a new stamp. This may change in the future but for the time being, if you have the right passport and are prepared to travel once a year, you can legally stay in Georgia for as long as you like.

E-visa & Georgia visa on arrival   

Passport holders from an additional 65-plus countries are eligible for either a 30 or 90-day tourist e-visa, which you can get online before you arrive.

• Click here to check if you need a visa for Georgia and to apply for an expedited e-visa through my partners at iVisa.

Other requirements to enter Georgia

To enter Georgia, you might also be required to have the following:

• A passport that’s valid for the intended duration of your stay (or for 3+ months if you’re entering on a visa)
• Proof of insurance for the duration of your stay
• Proof of onward travel (i.e. a return airfare)

Anecdotally (and in my personal experience), those travelling under the visa exemption are rarely asked to present proof of onward travel or travel insurance at Georgian immigration.

If you are travelling on a tourist visa, I strongly recommend you follow the requirements to a T.

Travel insurance for Georgia

Overall, Georgia is an incredibly safe place for tourists, but I definitely recommend taking out a travel insurance policy before you arrive . This is particularly important if you plan on going to the mountains to hike or ski.

Travellers are sometimes required to show proof of travel insurance when boarding a flight to Georgia or at immigration upon arrival.

Standard travel insurance policies cover all of Georgia except Abkhazia and South Ossetia. If you plan on traveling to Abkhazia (entry to South Ossetia is not currently permitted from the Georgian side), then it’s highly recommended to take out a specialised insurance policy that will cover you for emergencies. Note that there are no consular support services in Abkhazia.

• Inquire about a policy with Hey Mondo , my preferred provider for single and multi-trip travel insurance (get 5% off when you book using my link).

How to get to Georgia

Flying to georgia.

Georgia has three international airports in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi. There are direct flights to Georgia from 40 cities in Western and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Budget carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights to Kutaisi from cities in Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland and elsewhere in Europe. Most schedules are limited to 2-3 flights per week. Batumi Airport hosts flights from Turkey and Belarus.

Tbilisi International Airport, Georgia’s main hub, is serviced by Qatar Airways (via Doha ), Turkish Airways (via Istanbul ), FlyDubai, Lufthansa (via Munich), AirAsia X (via Bangkok), and the national carrier, Georgian Airways (via Western Europe, Israel and Ukraine).

How to get from Tbilisi Airport to the city

There are several options for travelling into the city from the airport: City bus 337, taxi or private transfer. I recommend you avoid taking an airport taxi unless you’re booking it through an app.

• For a full breakdown of the different options, see my Tbilisi Airport Guide .

How to get from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi

If your flight arrives in Kutaisi and you want to head straight to Tbilisi, you have several options for getting to the capital directly from the airport. There are two budget-friendly coach services plus private transfers available. Travel time to Tbilisi is approximately 3.5-4 hours.

• For a full breakdown of the different options, see my Kutaisi Airport Guide .

Trains to Georgia

Rail is a convenient way to travel between the three Trans-Caucasus countries. There are overnight sleeper services between Tbilisi and Batumi (summer months only), Armenia and Azerbaijan.

• Read my guide to travelling between Tbilisi and Yerevan by train .
• Read my guide to travelling between Tbilisi and Baku by train .

Entering Georgia by Road

Georgia’s land borders with Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Russia are all open for international tourists. Generally speaking, crossing into Georgia overland is a simple and straightforward process.

You can enter Georgian overland using marshrutka vans, private taxis, or by self-driving (if you’re brining in your own vehicle, pre-purchase compulsory insurance here ). Some border points cannot be passed by foot or on bicycle.

From Armenia

There are three checkpoints along the southern Georgia-northern Armenia border.

The two most convenient crossings for travellers are at Bagratashen–Sadakhlo (for travelling from Yerevan to Tbilisi) and at Bavra–Ninotsminda (for travelling from Gyumri or Yerevan to Akhaltsikhe).

From Turkey

The main checkpoint on the Georgia-Turkey border is at Hopa–Sarpi , 20km south of Batumi. This is the most convenient option for reaching Georgia from Turkey’s Black Sea coast (Trabzon).

A second checkpoint at Posof–Vale may be more convenient if you’re coming from central Eastern Turkey (Kars); however there is no formal cross-border transport so this journey must be done with taxis and local buses. The first city on the Georgian side of the border is Akhaltsikhe.

From Azerbaijan

There are two checkpoints along the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. Balakan–Lagodekhi is used for travelling from Sheki to Kakheti or Tbilisi via Qax. There are direct vans between Qax and Tbilisi.

A second checkpoint at Red Bridge–Sixli south-east of Tbilisi is convenient for entering Georgia from Ganja. From Baku , you can take either route.

From Russia

There is only one land border crossing between Russia and Georgia at Verkhny Lars–Kazbegi in the mountains north of Tbilisi. There are daily direct vans from Vladikavkaz to Tbilisi, travelling via the spectacular Georgian Military Highway .

Is Georgia a safe country to visit?

Georgia is an overwhelmingly safe destination for tourists of all types. Tourists are very rarely targeted by petty crime, and tourist scams are rare. There are certain things to be aware of, most notably road safety and in rural areas, shepherd dogs.

As long as you exercise common sense and caution, are mindful of your belongings, show discretion when interacting with people and take precautionary steps when hiking, then you will have no problems in Georgia. If you’re a solo female traveller, try to pair up with others when hiking or visiting rural areas.

Something that people often ask me about in regards to safety is political instability. You might remember that Georgia went through its Rose Revolution in 2003. Be mindful that border disputes and conflict around breakaway and occupied territories are still bubbling away. Protests often occur in Tbilisi in response to various political decisions and social issues. These are almost always peaceful but things can escalate, so I still recommend avoiding them whenever possible and finding a different way to show your support.

• See my safety tips for Georgia .

Is Tbilisi safe?

Tbilisi is consistently named among the safest cities in the world. The same rules mentioned above apply in the capital – crime is rare, and tourists are hardly ever targeted. There are a few common scams to be wary of, and a couple of other things you should watch out for:

• Use an app to book taxis
• When purchasing food on the street or at markets, always ask the price first
• Avoid exchanging money at the airport; use an ATM to withdraw GEL instead
• Never go into a bar that isn’t marked on Google Maps

Road safety in Georgia

Road safety is my biggest personal concern in Georgia. I hold my breath every time I get into a taxi in Tbilisi, and it takes me a long time to work up the nerve to get into a marshrutka.

I’ve had a few bad experiences on the roads and I know for a fact that I’m not alone. I don’t say this to spook you, but rather to make you aware that road safety is something you should be on your guard about.

Although the highways are improving year by year, some rural roads – especially in the mountains – are still quite dangerous. The more worrying thing though is the driving style, which borders on reckless. Here are a few general tips to manage your risk:

• Limit very long journeys by breaking up the trip (e.g. by spending a night in Zugdidi between Tbilisi and Mestia)
• Avoid travelling on the road after dark
• Never get into a vehicle if you suspect the driver has been drinking
• Avoid cheap day tours – they often cut corners on road safety
• Use GoTrip transfers for mountain roads rather than marshrutka vans
• Get intimate with the road rules and driving style before you hire a car

Dogs in Georgia

Georgia has a huge population of street dogs – according to some estimates, there are 50,000 living in Tbilisi alone. City dogs are generally very placid and friendly towards people, but they can be territorial and aggressive towards each other. You’ll notice that many dogs are tagged with a coloured plastic marker on their ear. This indicates that they have been vaccinated and neutered.

If you’re an animal lover, it can be distressing to see so many dogs on the street in the cities and at tourist sites. Most dogs are cared for by the community crowd-sourced style (you’ll even see kennels and water bowls set up from time to time). Unfortunately, not all dogs are in the best shape. If you encounter a dog that needs urgent care, Dog Organization Georgia might be able to assist. You can also contact them about volunteer dog walking opportunities at their no-kill shelter near Lisi Lake.

Shepherd dogs are a different kettle of fish. If you’re hiking in remote areas or even just visiting rural villages, you need to be on the lookout for dogs. They can be extremely aggressive when trying to protect their flocks. Try to give dogs (and flocks of sheep/herds of cattle) a very wide berth. If you encounter an aggressive dog, stand your ground and call out for help – oftentimes there will be a shepherd in the area who can call the dog off.

Solo female travel in Georgia

Georgia is generally safe for solo female travellers provided you exercise common sense and caution. Never hike alone, even in the hills around Tbilisi. Always sit in the back when using taxis. Always lock the door to your room at night, especially when staying at guesthouses in rural areas. Avoid accommodations with shared courtyards as they offer very little privacy from the neighbours.

What is the currency in Georgia?

The official currency in Georgia is the lari, abbreviated to GEL (₾). Along with banknotes Georgia also uses coins called tetri. 100 tetri = 1 lari.

• Banknotes in circulation in Georgia are: 5, 10, 20, 50 & 100 lari.
• Coins in circulation are: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 tetri, plus 1 & 2 lari.

Even though prices are sometimes displayed in USD or Euros, lari is the only legal method of payment in Georgia and the only currency you need to carry with you. (This excludes Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which use the Russian ruble.)

Exchange rates fluctuate dramatically, and the GEL always increases in value over the summer months then dips back in winter. I recommend checking the official rates before you travel on the National Bank of Georgia website .

At the time of writing:

• $1 USD = 2.72 GEL
• €1 Euro = 2.82 GEL
• £1 British Pound = 3.24 GEL
• $1 Australian Dollar = 1.82 GEL
• $1 Canadian Dollar = 2.04 GEL

Fun fact: Georgia has its own system for measuring inflation. The ‘Khachapuri index’ is based on the cost of flour, milk, eggs and cheese – the basic ingredients to make a Khachapuri.

Cash or card?

Debit and credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops and hotels in all cities across Georgia. In Tbilisi, market vendors, taxi drivers and some smaller venues will only take cash payment. Some guesthouses only take cash, even in Tbilisi.

In rural areas, cash is still king. Most towns have an ATM but if you’re going remote, it’s a good idea to carry enough cash on you to cover your expenses just in case.

Most people have no issue with accepting creased or even torn banknotes, so don’t stress about keeping your lari pristine.

Using ATMs in Georgia

ATMs are ubiquitous in Georgia and can be found in every city, town and in some larger villages. You won’t have any trouble finding an ATM in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Kazbegi, Mestia or Borjomi. If you’re travelling to rural areas, I highly recommend carrying cash as access to ATMs isn’t always guaranteed.

My go-to ATMs in Georgia are TBC, Bank of Georgia, Cartu Bank, VTB and Basisbank . All of these brands accept Visa and Mastercard, while AMEX users should stick to Bank of Georgia. Most ATMs have a withdrawal limit of 400-500 GEL and charge a 3-5 GEL transaction fee (this is always displayed on the screen). Cartu Bank and Basisbank have higher withdrawal limits (up to 2000 GEL). Additional fees may be added by your home bank.

It’s possible to withdraw US dollars and Euros from some ATMs in Georgia, but this comes with additional fees.

Top tip: Don’t mistake a paybox for an ATM. Payboxes (ATM-like freestanding boxes that are a bit slimmer and can be found on just about every corner in Tbilisi) are used for paying utility bills, topping up your transport card and other services. They do not dispense cash.

Exchanging money in Georgia

For ease, I recommend you avoid exchanging currency in Georgia and just stick to withdrawing GEL from an ATM. If you need to change cash, avoid doing so at the airport or in the Old Town (the rates are notoriously bad). Rico Credit is a reliable company with exchange desks throughout Tbilisi and Georgia.

How much does it cost to travel in Georgia?

Georgia is known for being a very affordable travel destination and that reputation is well deserved in my experience. Is Georgia cheap? Yes, but I prefer to say it’s ‘value for money’.

Having said that, prices have increased dramatically in the past 6-12 months due to rising inflation, the increased value of the lari and various global events. The cost of fuel (and thus transport) has gone up noticeably, with fares increasing by 20-30% across the board. Restaurant and accommodation prices are up, too.

On balance, Georgia remains an extremely budget-friendly destination. With the exception of Batumi during summer high season and Gudauri ski resort in winter, prices are relatively consistent around the country. Some ‘touristic’ places such as Mestia, Kazbegi and Borjomi can be a touch more expensive. Kutaisi is a bit more affordable than Tbilisi.

Average costs for Tbilisi

To give you an idea of how much things cost in Georgia, here are some example costs for Tbilisi:

• Mid-range hotel room: 30-50 USD/night
• Transport card: 2 GEL (one-time cost)
• Single metro/bus fare: 1 GEL
• Taxi ride across town: 3-12 GEL
• Bakery snack: 2-5 GEL
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 20-30 GEL/person
• Glass of wine: 5 GEL
• Museum ticket: 3-15 GEL

Average budget for one week in Georgia

Budget traveller: ~ 600 GEL (210 USD) per week

Backpacking in Georgia is incredibly affordable. If you stay in hostel accommodation, use public transport in the cities, eat local (Khachapuri is your friend), stick to free activities and use marshrutka vans to travel from place to place, you can easily get by on a (mid-length) shoestring.

Mid-range traveller: ~1000 GEL (350 USD) per week

I fall into this category. This budget should cover you for staying at guesthouses or mid-range hotels, trying all the foods at both budget and higher-priced restaurants, grabbing a coffee each morning and a wine each night, using a combination of public transport and taxis in cities, not skimping on tickets or guides for certain attractions, and using a mix of marshrutka vans and GoTrip transfers to get around.

High-end traveller: ~1700+ GEL (595+ USD) per week

This includes staying at beautiful boutique accommodations, eating at higher-priced restaurants, using taxis and private transfers to travel around, and taking guided tours and private day trips.

• See my detailed break-down of costs in Georgia and top money saving tips .

Should you tip in Georgia?

Tipping is not part of the culture in Georgia and is not considered mandatory by any means. However, tipping has become expected in most service industries, especially in the bigger cities.

Some service providers, especially taxi drivers, refuse to accept tips. The common sense principle that you should only tip if you’re pleased with the service applies.

Knowing that wages are extremely low in Georgia, I almost always tip (unless the service was remarkably poor or the driver was unusually reckless). If you choose to tip, you can use this as a general guide:

• Restaurants, cafes & bars: 10%
• Food delivery drivers: 1-2 GEL
• Taxis: 1-3 GEL when using an app or round-up to the nearest GEL if paying in cash
• Tour guides & drivers: 10-20%
• Free walking tour guides: 20-30 GEL (depending on the length of the tour and the number of participants)
• Hotel staff: Tipping not expected

Top tip: You’ll notice that many restaurants and cafes in Georgia add a 10% service charge onto your bill (on top of the 18% VAT). This service fee doesn’t go to the server, so if you want to be sure they receive a gratuity, leave an extra tip and try to hand it to them personally.

Getting online in Georgia

Georgia is miles ahead of a lot other countries when it comes to internet connectivity. All restaurants, cafes, hotels etc. offer a free connection for guests. If you rent an Airbnb or apartment, internet will be included. Buses and trains do not have WIFI, with the exception of the Stadler train that runs between Tbilisi and Batumi.

Internet speeds range from 20-100 Mbps up/down depending on the venue and location. There is also an open public WIFI network in Tbilisi called ‘Tbilisi Loves You’. It’s not terribly fast or reliable, but it can come in handy for emergencies.

In rural areas, coverage can be a bit spotty. In Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) the network is reliable enough for digital nomads to work up there, but in Mestia (Svaneti) it’s often intermittent. In 2022, it was announced that Georgia will be one of the first countries to receive Space X’s Star Link. Woohoo!

If you need a reliable internet connection for work, I highly recommend buying a sim card so you can hotspot your phone if the power goes out.

Buying a sim card in Georgia

Buying and activating a sim is both cheap and straightforward. Even if you’re only visiting Georgia for a couple of days, I still recommend buying a sim so that you can use maps and order taxis.

Magti is my preferred provider for coverage, price and service. Prices start from just 9 GEL/week for unlimited 4G.

• Read my detailed guide to buying a sim card in Georgia .

Recommended apps for Georgia

Here are the apps I use on a weekly basis:

• 112 Georgia: Contact emergency services directly & send a GPS location (requires a local sim). Download for Android / Apple .
• Bolt: For booking taxis. Download for Android / Apple .
• My Magti: For topping up your mobile balance. Download for Android / Apple .
• Tbilisi Transport: Official app for public transport in Tbilisi. Download for Android / Apple .
• Tbilisi Bus Live: Schedules & real-time updates for city buses. Download for Android only .
• TKT.GE: For buying train and event tickets. Download for Android / Apple .
• Yandex Translate: Translates written and spoken Georgian. Download for Android / Apple .
• Wenu: Allows you to place a restaurant/cafe order from your phone (a large number of venues now use QR codes in the place of paper menus). Download for Android / Apple .
• Wolt: Popular food delivery app. Download for Android / Apple .
• Yr.no: The most reliable app for weather forecasts. Download for Android / Apple .
• Wikiloc: Offline trail maps for popular hikes. Download for Android / Apple .
• Biliki: Hiking trails & tourist info. Download for Android / Apple .
• Scroll: Electric scooter hire. Download for Android / Apple .

Do people in Georgia speak English?

After Georgian – which is of course Georgia’s official language – the two most commonly spoken foreign languages are Russian and English. While older people know Russian, I’ve found that younger Georgians are most likely to speak English as their second language.

If you’re sticking to popular destinations such as Tbilisi, Batumi, Kazbegi, Svaneti, etc. then you will have no problem getting by with just English. If you’re going rural, it can be helpful to know a bit of Russian or Georgian, but it’s not at all essential.

At the very least you should try to learn a couple of key Georgian phrases. People really appreciate it when you show interest in the language – it’s a sign of respect and trust me, it will earn you brownie points.

The Georgian alphabet is pretty easy to master as well, and being able to read bus signs and menus will improve your confidence.

Useful Georgian phrases

• Gamarjoba: Hello
• Naxvamdis: Goodbye
• Madloba: Thank you
• Madloba didi: Thank you very much (big thanks)
• Me ar vici: I don’t understand
• Bodishi: Excuse me (sorry)
• Gemrieli: Delicious
• Gaumarjos!: Cheers!

Resources for learning Georgian

• Learn to Write Georgian Alphabet : This paid mobile app teaches you the characters and how to write them. This is what I used to learn the alphabet.
• Learn the Georgian Alphabet : This free website teaches through repetition and is extremely helpful.
• Hoda Georgia : This YouTube series takes you through basic vocabulary and conversational Georgian. Just a couple of episodes will give you almost everything you need as a tourist.
• Georgian Peace Corps: Online modules and a free PDF workbook. It’s worth downloading if you’re serious about learning grammar. ( This website has reproduced the guide and added some very questionable cover art!)
• Beginner’s Georgian : One of the books I’m using to learn Georgian.

Etiquette in Georgia

Although quite conservative in many ways, Georgia is still a relatively laid-back country. That is to say there aren’t a lot of unspoken rules to abide by or social faux-pas to make (at least for foreigners).

Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Always greet your neighbours. If you’re staying in an apartment block or your accommodation has a shared courtyard, remember to say hello. It’s considered impolite if you don’t
• Don’t be perturbed by stony expressions. I always say ‘thank you’ to the shop attendant and the bus driver – but this is quite uncommon in Georgia. You may be met with a baffled look, but often it turns into a smile. I usually just laugh it off.
• Give up your seat for the elderly/pregnant. Standard practice when using public transport.
• Don’t bin leftover bread. Bread is sacred and shouldn’t be tossed in the bin. Put it in a plastic bag and tie it to the outside of the bin instead.
• Don’t haggle outside of markets. Respectful haggling is normal at markets but not at shops, restaurants etc.
• Don’t worry about finishing your meal. Over-ordering at restaurants is common. No one will judge you if you leave some food on your plate – but please do be mindful of food waste.
• Be sensitive when discussing politics. It’s generally not a problem to talk politics, but it’s not recommended to raise the subject first with a friend or at all if you’re talking to a stranger.

Drinking culture in Georgia

Even having lived in rice-wine-fueled Vietnam and Cambodia, I still think the drinking culture in Georgia is something else. Wine is the beverage of choice for most people, and things are usually quite civil when wine is involved. But if you’re staying in guesthouses or eating out, you will soon be acquainted with wine’s wicked cousin, Chacha .

Chacha is a highly potent (up to 80% proof) liquor made from grape pomace, the byproduct of wine-making. It’s served in shot glasses and thrown back fast. There are ‘artisanal’ fruit and spiced Chachas that are slightly more palatable but for the most part, it’s like drinking ethanol. Wherever there is wine, there is usually also Chacha. You’ve been warned.

If you’re at a guesthouse or on a tour and your host offers you alcohol, it can be very hard to say no. This is especially true for men (women can sometimes get away with it). Once you start drinking, your glass will never sit empty again. Sometimes a meal will spontaneously erupt into Supra (feast) with toasting, in which case it’s impolite not to down whatever’s put in front of you.

The only successful method I’ve heard of for getting out of drinking is to say you’ve just had a rabies vaccination.

On a serious note, never get into a car with a driver who’s been drinking. If you find yourself in a situation where excessive drinking is making you feel uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to give a friendly but firm ‘no’.

Visiting monasteries & churches in Georgia

The Orthodox Church is revered in Georgia and plays an important role in modern society. When visiting churches, monasteries and the like, visitors are expected to adhere to the same dress and behavior code as locals.

Dress code for visiting Orthodox sites in Georgia:

• Women: Covered hair; covered shoulders; covered knees. In some cases a long skirt is required rather than pants.
• Men: Covered knees; covered shoulders; uncovered head.

Most venues supply apron skirts and headscarves that you can borrow, but some more remote churches and monasteries don’t. I always recommend dressing conservatively and carrying a lightweight cotton scarf with you.

Responsible travel is incredibly important in Georgia, especially in regards to the natural environment. Like every country, Georgia faces a host of social issues that are exacerbated by unsustainable tourism. I think it’s important to understand these and be mindful of what’s going on behind the scenes.

• See this guide for responsible tourism tips for Georgia plus a list of social enterprises and ecotourism projects around the country.

What to pack for Georgia

I recommend travelling as light as possible when you come to Georgia, simply because having a lot of luggage can be a pain when you’re trying to get around. Generally speaking, the dress code errs slightly on the conservative side, especially outside the major cities.

Packing essentials include a lightweight scarf (for monasteries), bathers (for the sulfur baths) good walking shoes , and a reusable water bottle (Georgia is known for its mineral waters and tap water is safe to drink in 90% of towns and cities). Pack your Wine Wings so you can safely transport a bottle or two of Georgian vino home!

There are certain prescription medications you can’t buy or carry into Georgia, so be sure to read up if this applies to you.

Trekking gear, camping supplies and winter sports equipment can all be hired when you arrive.

• See my full all-seasons packing list for Georgia .
• Here’s where to store luggage in Tbilisi .

Power adaptor for Georgia

Georgia has a mix of type C (Euro plug) and type F (Schuko plug) sockets. Plugs C, E and F all work in Georgia. Note that the standard voltage in Georgia is 200 V and some electronics from the US – including some hair dryers – will not work here. Incidentally, all accommodations provide a hair dryer so there’s no need to bring your own.

For ease, I prefer to travel with a universal power adaptor. This is the one I currently use .

Transportation in Georgia

Georgia is compact and pretty straightforward to navigate around using a mix of public transportation and private cars for more complex journeys.

City buses & metro

All cities and some towns in Georgia have a bus network. Tbilisi also has an underground metro. For the most part, public transportation in Georgia is user-friendly and extremely affordable.

In the cities, you’ll be using a mix of coach buses and microbuses ( marshrutky – more on those in a moment). In Tbilisi, use the official TTC app to check the main bus routes – you can’t always trust Google Maps.

Fares vary from city to city: In Tbilisi a single fare costs 1 GEL, in Batumi it’s 30 tetri, and in Kutaisi it’s 40 tetri. When you arrive in Tbilisi, buy a rechargeable MetroMoney Card or a new blue Travel Card for 2 GEL.

You can also use a chipped international bank card in Tbilisi, but the fares are roughly 50% higher.

• See my full guide to using public transport in Tbilisi .

Like in most big cities, taxis in Tbilisi have a reputation for overcharging tourists. I try to avoid taxis whenever possible, especially when travelling to the city from the airport or the train station.

Instead, you should use a ride booking app, which works for taxis and private cars. There are several to choose from – my preferred service is Bolt (reasonable fares, reliable drivers, clean cars, and a no-smoking policy).

In small towns and rural areas, taxis are the only way to get around. Shared taxis where you pay per seat are very common for longer journeys.

• See my tips for using taxis in Tbilisi .
• If you’re interested in ride sharing, try Let’s Go (the group works in Georgian).

GoTrip Georgia

GoTrip Georgia is a terrific local service for organising intercity transfers and full-day driving itineraries with a private car and driver. It’s essentially a long-distance Uber.

Drivers are vetted and reviewed, and you can make unlimited stops on your route. Fares (up to 40% cheaper than regular taxis) are set in advance so you never have to worry about negotiating.

• Click here to visit the GoTrip website and start planning your route.
• Read my first-hand review of GoTrip.ge .

Marshrutka minivans

Every trip to Georgia involves at least a couple of marshrutka rides. 

Marshrutka vans are fixed-route minivans found throughout the former USSR countries . In Georgia, marshrutka routes connect all major cities, towns and villages. They can be a bit cramped and uncomfortable, and there’s not much room for luggage, but they are a very affordable way to get from A to B.

• Read my complete guide to using marshrutka vans in Georgia , with fares and timetables.
• See my detailed guide to Tbilisi’s main bus depot, Didube Station , with maps and a video tour.

Georgia has an extensive railway network that was mostly developed during Soviet times (in 1932, the first electric trains in the USSR were tested in the Surami pass in central Georgia).

There are several different types of train running today, and not all of them are ideal for travellers. The main rail route, Tbilisi to Batumi, uses high-speed Stadler trains , connecting the two cities in around 6 hours. The rest of Georgia’s trains are older locomotives , which can be uncomfortable and a bit slow. Especially notorious are the ‘electric trains’ used on several routes including Tbilisi to Borjomi and Kutaisi to Sachkhere.

Georgia has one ‘scenic railway’, the Kukushka ‘Cuckoo’ train from Borjomi to Bakuriani. Unfortunately it was suspended in 2020 and remains inactive for the foreseeable future.

• Check train schedules on the Georgian Railway website .
• Buy your train tickets online through TKT.ge or 12GoAsia .

Driving in Georgia

If you’re an experienced and confident driver, hiring a car is a great way to get around Georgia. Most agents don’t require you to present an international driver’s permit to rent a car in Georgia – you can drive on your home license (provided it meets the requirements) for up to one year. Rates are much lower if you go through a local agent.

I recommend using Local Rent (formerly MyRentACar) to find a good deal.

• For insider tips about road conditions, driving style and road safety, check out my complete guide to driving in Georgia .
• And for more inspiration, check out my adventurous Georgia road trip itinerary .

Follow the Roads Department on Facebook to check for road closures and updates on driving conditions. They also have a hotline: +995 322 313 076.

Tours in Georgia

Both city tours and day tours are extremely affordable in Georgia, making this a great way to pack more into your trip if you’re on a short timeline. I’ve done dozens of tours in Georgia and am always impressed with the quality of service and the knowledge of local guides.

I personally use Get Your Guide and Viator to book tours and organised day trips. These aggregator websites both have a lot to choose from, offer payment security and a generous refund policy. Always read the reviews and do your research before you settle on an itinerary (you can find the company name on the tour page).

My favourite local tour companies in Georgia include:

• Friendly.ge – for day trips from Tbilisi (use the code wanderlush to get 10% off your booking)
• Eat This! Tours – for wine tours from Tbilisi (use the code lush to get 5% off your booking)
• Budget Georgia – for day trips and transfers from Kutaisi

If you’re spending a bit longer in Tbilisi, consider joining a day trip organised by Weekend Travelers Georgia . This Facebook group is geared towards long-term travellers and expats and organises hiking and culture-focused trips to offbeat locations.

• Browse all Georgia tours on Get Your Guide .
• See my list of recommended walking tours in Tbilisi .

Accommodation in Georgia

Georgia has a wide variety of accommodations suitable for every budget and comfort level. In the cities, hotels, boutique hostels and guesthouses are the most popular options. Airbnb has become ubiquitous in Tbilisi and is great for longer stays.

In smaller towns and rural areas, family-run guesthouses are usually the best option. As well as private or shared sleeping quarters, most offer full board (hello, amazing home-cooking), and can organise tours and transport on your behalf.

• Browse Georgia accommodations on Booking.com , my preferred booking platform.
• See my curated list of Georgia’s best guesthouses .

Eating & drinking in Georgia

Georgia is a foodie’s paradise. If you live to eat or just eat to live, exploring Georgia’s food scene will no doubt be a highlight of your trip. There’s a good chance one of the things that first piqued your interest in Georgia was the country’s food scene and the legend of the Supra (Georgian feast).

Georgian cuisine is all kinds of yummy, especially indulgent, carb and dairy-heavy comfort foods from the mountains. The fresh produce is unrivalled (Georgia has the best tomatoes on planet earth), while a liberal use of spices and aromatics ensures everything is tasty as can be. Much of the food is naturally vegetarian-friendly .

Georgia’s culinary strengths are threefold: A topography and climate where literally almost anything grows year-round (from kiwis to potatoes), flavours and spices from all four corners, plus a slew of regional cuisines that are all totally distinct.

• See an extended list of my favourite Georgian restaurants in Tbilisi .
• See a shortlist of my favourite restaurants in Kutaisi .
• Download my free PDF guide: ‘Where to Find the Best Khinkali in Tbilisi’ .
• Read my guide to visiting Kakheti Wine Region , including my favourite wineries and wine-tasting tips.
• Read my Tbilisi Wine Guide to find the best wine bars, wine tastings and wine shops in the city.
• Learn how to visit the award-winning Baia’s Wine from Kutaisi.

Here is just a small sample of the dishes and drinks I suggest you wrap your mouth around stat:

5 must-try Georgian dishes

• Khinkali: Georgia’s one and only ‘soup dumplings’ come in a glorious array of flavour combinations, from simple beef and cumin to mushroom and aged cheese.
• Khachapuri: Most people are familiar with Imeretian Khachapuri (a simple round bread layered with cheese) and Adjaruli Khachapuri (the boat-shaped bread served with butter and an egg). There are dozens more regional varieties to try.
• Kharcho with Elarji: This rich beef stew made with walnuts and spices is one of my favourite meals. Always order a side of Elarji (cheesy cornmeal) or Ghomi sticks (fried cornmeal batons).
• Lobio: Stewed kidney beans in a clay pot. Simple, flavourful and soul-confirming.
• Shkmeruli: Chicken cooked in a creamy garlic sauce. The amount of garlic used will blow your head off, in a good way.

5 not-so-typical Georgian dishes

• Chvishtari: Cheesy cornmeal formed into a patty and deep-fried. It’s crispy and oozy and stringy and amazing.
• Borano: Melted cheese smothered in melted butter. Need I say more.
• Gebjalia: A Megrelian dish of cheese ‘rolls’ served in a cheesy yogurt sauce with mint. I hope you like cheese!
• Apkhazura: ‘Meatballs’ of beef or pork and pomegranate, wrapped in caul fat.
• Tatara / Pelamushi: A dessert made with grape juice – like a soft version of Churchkhela.

5 must-try Georgian wines

Georgia has more than 500 documented endemic grape varieties (many now extinct) and well over 10,000 wineries of various sizes. Kakheti is the main wine region, but vines are cultivated almost everywhere – including in smaller wine regions in Lower Racha, Upper Adjara, Guria, Kartli and beyond.

You may already be familiar with Saperavi and amber wine. Here are 5 more Georgian grapes to add to your hit list:

• Kisi: A young and vibrant wine with aromas of ‘pear, marigold and walnut’. Light and refreshing (and perfect for day drinking!).
• Krakhuna: Full-bodied, aged amber wine with a deep straw-like gold colour and a higher alcohol content.
• Khvanchkara: This famous semi-sweet wine from Lower Racha is often treacle-thick and berry-sweet. Apparently this was Stalin’s wine of choice – but don’t let that put you off.
• Otskhanuri Sapere: Native to Imereti, this wine has a brilliant ruby red colour and coarse texture, with high tannins and acidity.
• Shavkapito: Grown in Kartli region, these grapes make a variety of different wines depending on where they’re grown. I love the sparkling pink Shavkapito myself.

If you want to learn more about Georgian wine, I highly recommend the Wines of Georgia website .

Vegetarian & vegan in Georgia

A surprisingly large number of Georgians fast several times throughout the year for religious holidays (devout Orthodox Christians fast every week on Wednesdays and Fridays). Because of this, the vast majority of restaurants, cafes, bakeries and grocery stores with ready-made meals offer a ‘fasting menu’ or Samarkhvo in Georgian, with items that are free from animal products and oils. Note that some fasting meals still contain honey.

If you don’t eat meat, you’ll be chuffed to know that many Georgian dishes are vegetarian-friendly by nature – Ajapsandali , mushroom Khinkali, Pkhali and eggplant rolls, to name just a few.

Vegans will find eating out in Georgia a bit trickier. There are plenty of veg and vegan-friendly specialty restaurants around ( see listings here on Happy Cow ), some of them serving Georgian dishes and others focusing on international cuisine. Most guesthouses will happily cater to special dietary needs as long as you give them some warning.

Mealtimes & eating out

Most people in Georgia eat late – lunch at around 2-3pm and supper at around 9-10pm in summer is common. There is virtually no breakfast or brunch culture in Georgia, although some early morning cafes have started to pop up in Tbilisi. Most restaurants are open from midday until late (without a break) and serve food all day.

• See my mega list of the best breakfasts, brunches & buffets in Tbilisi .

Georgian food is always served family style in the centre of the table. Sharing is the norm. Smoking is banned in restaurants. English-language menus are widespread. Service is staggered, and plates often come out in an awkward order. Portion sizes are consistently generous at most restaurants, and over-ordering is common.

Georgian handicrafts & souvenirs

Georgia’s vibrant heritage craft scene was one of the first things that drew me to visit the country. There are dozens of artisans and makers working to preserve and modernise traditional techniques such as felting, pottery and wax-resist printing. If you’re interested in learning more, the Georgian Heritage Crafts Association is a great place to start.

On top of that, Georgia has an incredible edible artisan scene! Every time I fly out of Georgia it’s always with a bag full of spices.

• Read my guide to the best Georgian designers & independent labels .
• See my Tbilisi souvenir shopping guide & map .

Save some room in your luggage for these classic Georgian souvenirs:

• Lurji Supra: Georgia’s famous ‘blue tablecloths’ are printed with traditional medallions depicting fish, cutlery and other food-related figures. The best Lurji Supra are hand-printed on cotton.
• Cloisonne enamel jewellery: This traditional technique is hugely popular in Georgia, with many jewellers crafting delicate brooches, necklaces and rings from colourful enamel.
• Clay pottery: It’s a bit tricker to take home, but a piece of Georgian pottery is a wonderful souvenir – whether it’s a simple clay Ketsi dish or an ornately painted wine jug.
• Knitted slippers: Popular for wearing indoors during winter, you’ll see these slippers in an array of colours and designs sold all over Georgia.
• Adjika & Georgian spices: Dry Adjika, marigold, Svanetian salt and blue fenugreek are just a few of my favourites. I particularly like the Waime! brand.
• Churchkhela & dried fruits: If you’re allowed to take fruit products home with you, pick up some Churchkhela , Tklapi fruit leather, jams and preserves (pine cone jam is very unique), and maybe even a bottle of Tkemali sour plum sauce.

Top 10 things to do in Georgia

Wondering what to do in Georgia apart from eat, drink and shop? I’m not exaggerating when I say this country has something for every interest, travel taste and budget (see my itinerary suggestions below for more).

There’s so much on offer, it’s extremely difficult to narrow it down into a shortlist. If you asked me to choose just 10 must-dos in Georgia, here’s what I would pick…

• Go for a scrub-down at the Tbilisi sulfur baths
• Drink wine from the Qvevri in Kakheti
• Drive on the epic Georgian Military Highway
• Hike from Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity Church
• Visit a medieval cave monastery
• Go inside a tower house in UNESCO-listed Ushguli
• Swim on a black sand beach
• Visit the semi-abandoned spa town of Tskaltubo
• Stay at a family guesthouse in a small village
• Ride on Stalin’s Rope Roads in Chiatura
• Don’t forget to grab a copy of my free ebook: ‘365 Things to Do in Georgia’ .

Just as there are hundreds of things to do, there are dozens and dozens of beautiful places to visit in Georgia. You’d be hard-pressed to find a country so diverse in its landscapes and cultures. Where else in the world can you wake up in the mountains, drive through a primordial forest then be on a black sand magnetic beach by dinner time!?

Below is a brief overview of some of the key cities and areas to see in Georgia.

• View the full list: 42 best places to visit in Georgia this year .

Georgia’s capital city, cultural and culinary hub, Tbilisi needs no introduction. This is the gateway to the regions, the main transport centre, and the best place to start and end your Georgia itinerary.

Aside from being a city of convenience, Tbilisi is a very special place – the anchorpoint for Georgian spirituality and culture that has kept the country moored through centuries of political turmoil and social unrest.

You could easily spend a week or more exploring the city at a slow pace , peeling back the layers of history and influence as you tread the cobbled streets of the Old Town. I recommend setting aside at least 2 full days to do Tbilisi justice, more if you want to incorporate a few easy day trips .

Kutaisi doesn’t feature on every traveller’s itinerary – or if it does, it’s only as an arrival/departure point. Yet Georgia’s third-largest city and main hub in the west has its own particular charms.

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and the nation’s former cultural capital, Kutaisi has a lot to offer visitors in the way of history. Gelati Monastery , one of Georgia’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is located on the outskirts of the city, part of a cluster of beautiful churches and monasteries.

Wine bars and restaurants serving up Imeretian cuisine, a wonderful central market, and a leafy city centre makes Kutaisi a very pleasant place to lay down your suitcase for a couple of days. It’s also a great departure point for delving into lush Imereti region – known for its waterfalls, canyons and caves – and for visiting Soviet-nostalgia destinations including Tskaltubo and Chiatura .

The biggest city on Georgia’s Black Sea coast, Batumi is notorious for its outlandish architecture , bars and casinos. This is primarily a resort city that comes alive in the summer months. But there’s another side to Batumi beyond the beach and boulevard.

The capital of Georgia’s autonomous Adjara region , a distinct part of the country with its own dialect, cuisine and set of traditions, Batumi is brimming with fascinating history, good food and great wine , street art and more – provided you know where to look.

Not to mention that Batumi is home to the country’s most impressive botanical garden and is the access point for some of Georgia’s best national parks , including the pristine Machakhela Protected Areas .

Eastern Georgia (KakhetI)

Georgia’s Kakheti region stretches from the Greater Caucasus in the north to the Azerbaijan border in the south, taking in the country’s entire eastern wing. The former Kingdom of Kakheti, this is where you’ll find some of Georgia’s most iconic medieval monasteries and impressive mountaintop churches.

Kakheti is grape country ; the first known evidence of winemaking was uncovered in archaeological dig sites nearby and today, this is by far the most productive wine region. The Alazani river valley is the heart of Georgia’s contemporary wine-making industry, running north-south and incorporating dozens of villages and chateaux along with the walled town of Sighnaghi and the city of Telavi . The only thing that outnumbers churches is vineyards, many of which can be toured and taste-tested on Wine Route.

Beyond the vineyards, diverse Kakheti also holds the remote Tusheti National Park to the north and the semi-desert Vashlovani Nature Reserve to the south. David Gareja Cave Monastery , the Udabno ‘rainbow hills’ and Pankisi Valley , home of the Georgian-Chechen Kist community, are among the many other places to see in Kakheti.

Gergeti Trinity Church set against the snow-capped Greater Caucasus and Mount Kazbegi is Georgia’s pinup landscape, the symbol for tourism in the country. If Georgia is synonymous with one thing, it’s the mountains that have impressed their influence on everything, from the languages to the food.

Georgia has two main mountain ranges: the Greater Caucasus to the north and the Lesser Caucasus to the south. Kazbegi and Svaneti are the most popular mountain destinations, while lesser-visited Tusheti and Racha offer a more rugged experience.

Central & Southern Georgia

Far-southern Georgia is one of the most visually impressive and culturally diverse parts of the country. Yet it’s also among the least-visited. With the exception of Borjomi and Bakuriani and the cave city of Vardzia , relatively few people spend time here.

Samtskhe-Javakheti region in the country’s deep south is often referred to as ‘the Georgian Arctic’ because of its harsh climate. This is a high-altitude volcanic landscape of craters and gem-like lakes and the perfect place for cycling and birdwatching. Closer to Tbilisi, visitors can learn about scarcely documented German heritage in the towns of Asureti and Bolnisi .

Central Georgia’s Shida Kartli region is home to the city of Gori , famous for the Stalin Museum but with a lot more to offer beyond dark tourism. Uplistsikhe , another of Georgia’s famed cave cities, is located in Shida Kartli, close to Gori.

A complete contrast to the semi-desert east, humid and overgrown Western Georgia is the green heart of the country. With Zugdidi as its capital, Samegrelo region is layered with history – including an unexpected connection to the French aristocracy. It’s also the birthplace of my favourite regional Georgian cuisine.

Western Georgia features magnificent mountain backdrops to the north (Svaneti) and south, with fertile tea and hazelnut country sandwiched in between. One of the best things to do Western Georgia is drive Guria’s Tea Route . The green corridor leads all the way to the Black Sea coast and the resort towns of Batumi, Kobuleti and Shekvetili, then beyond to Abkhazia. South of Batumi, you’ll find ancient Roman ruins and hiking trails in Gonio , swimming beaches at Kvariati , and the iconic border checkpoint building at Sarpi . To the north, there is historic Tsikhisdziri and Poti , Georgia’s ‘Little Paris’ on the Black Sea.

Festivals & cultural events in Georgia

The Georgian calendar is packed with religious feast days, Orthodox celebrations, ‘day of’ village festivals, and plenty of events that celebrate food and wine. Here are just a few of the major calendar events you might like to plan your trip around. Find a full list of festivals and celebrations here .

Note that dates for most of these events change year to year and sometimes aren’t finalised until a week or two in advance.

• December/January: Orthodox Christmas/New Year – Biggest celebrations on December 31, Bedoba on January 2, the Alilo Parade on Orthodox Christmas Day, and Epiphany in mid-January.
• April: Orthodox Easter – Special liturgies & family celebrations preceded by 40 days of fasting.
• May: New Wine Festival – Unsealing the previous years’ Qvevris.
• May 26: Independence Day – Markets, fireworks and parades for Georgia’s national day.
• Summer: Tushetoba – Tusheti’s folk fest spotlights Tush culture, cuisine and horsemanship.
• Summer: Bakhmaro Horse Race – This tradition takes place on Bakhmaro mountain in Guria.
• Summer: Black Sea Jazz Festival & GEM Fest – two of many summer music festivals that take place every year on the Black Sea Coast.
• September/October: Rtveli – Georgia’s annual wine harvest.  
• October: Tbilisoba – This city festival celebrates all things Tbilisi.
• October 14: Svetitskhovloba – Mtskheta’s festival day with celebrations and events at UNESCO-listed Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Georgia trip ideas for different travellers

Most first-time travellers to Georgia choose to focus on Tbilisi, the wine region and the mountains. I’ve covered my recommended general itineraries for Georgia in this post .

If you have a bit more time to play with – or indeed if it’s your second or third time visiting – then you might consider these alternative trip ideas tailored to different interests.

Georgia for foodies

The destinations should be top of your list for a food-focused voyage around Georgia.

• Samegrelo: My favourite regional cuisine in Georgia belongs to Samegrelo region. Zugididi is a great place to taste regional dishes including Kharcho and Elarji , Gebjalia and of course Adjika . See my restaurant recommendations in this city guide .
• Upper Adjara: The highland villages of Adjara region are home to a distinct, dairy and fat-heavy cuisine. As well as Khachapuri Adjaruli , try Sinori (flaky pie) and Borano (cheese with melted butter).
• Pankisi Valley: Kist (Chechen-Georgian) cuisine is totally unique. Nazy’s Guest House in the village of Jokolo offers home-cooked meals, cooking classes and other unique tourism experiences .
• Racha: This mountainous region is the home of such beloved delicacies as Rachan cured ham and Shkmeruli garlic chicken.

Georgia for wine lovers

If getting a taste for Georgia’s wine culture is your main priority, consider visiting these popular and lesser-known wine regions.

• Kakheti Wine Region: There are hundreds of wineries worth visiting in Kakheti , you could easily spend your entire trip roving around the main wine region. I recommend hiring a car and driver for the day to take you around ( GoTrip is a great option) or for a more in-depth experience, touring with a sommelier-guide .
• Imereti: Also be sure to visit the wineries outside Kutaisi , including Baia’s Wine. The harvesting and wine-making techniques are much the same but the grapes are totally different.
• Shrosha: This small village in Western Georgia is where clay Qvevris are made .
• Racha-Lechkhumi: Two more thriving wine regions in the north-west. Racha is known for Khvanchkara wine, which you can sample at guesthouses and small cellars around Ambrolauri.

Georgia for hikers

There are plenty of trekking opportunities in Georgia for various fitness levels. Here are a few of the most popular destinations for day and multi-day hikes.

• Svaneti: Choose from the popular 3-day trek from Mestia to Ushguli or alternative routes around Mestia, Mazeri and to Tobavarchkhili lakes.
• Truso Valley: This hiking mecca near Kazbegi features the beautiful Zakagori Fortress .
• Sno Valley/Juta: More trails and the scenic Chaukhi Pass on the opposite side of the valley to Truso.
• Lagodekhi National Park: Don’t miss the 3-day Black Rock Lake hike to the border with Azerbaijan and Russia.
• Borjomi National Park: Pristine forests and well-maintained trails in the Lesser Caucasus.
• For more information about hiking in Georgia, check out Caucasus Trekking .

Soviet Georgia

If you’re interested in all things former USSR, these places are a blast from the Soviet past.

• Brutal Tours (Tbilisi): Walking tours of Tbilisi that cover the city’s most prominent Socialist buildings and monuments.
• Gori: The (in)famous Stalin Museum in Gori is a must-visit for anyone who’s interested in Soviet history. To go deeper, book a Soviet Tour of Gori with my friend Zhana and let her show you around her home city in a retro Lada.
• Chiatura: This city in Imereti, north-east of Kutaisi, is famed for its network of cable cars known as ‘Stalin’s Ropeways’ . Perfect for urbexers.
• Tskaltubo: This semi-abandoned resort town is home to dozens of bathhouses and Soviet-era sanatoria , including Stalin’s private bath and suite .
• Samegrelo & Guria: If you’re interested in Soviet-era mosaics, these two regions of Western Georgia are must-sees. Dozens of mosaics adorn bus stops, old factories and schools. This map is a great resource for finding them.

Alternative Georgia

Here’s where to get off the beaten track in Georgia.

• Racha: Georgia’s alternative mountain region is popular with locals but rarely visited by foreigners. Don’t miss Oni (home to a stunning synagogue) or Shovi (home to ‘Stalin’s Dacha’).
• Pankisi Valley: Learn about Kist and Chechen traditions, observe a traditional Sufi Zikr ceremony, and go horseback riding into the Tushetian foothills.
• Vashlovani National Park: Mud volcanoes, rock formations and off-roading.
• Upper Adjara: The highlands back from Batumi are beyond picturesque.
• Guria: Drive Georgia’s Tea Route to discover Soviet-era plantations and small-scale farmers reviving the industry.
• Javakheti Plateau: Volcanic lakes and birdwatching in the ‘Georgian Arctic’.

Georgia for families

Children are worshipped in Georgia and travelling with your little one is a sure-fire way to make fast friends. Georgia is a very family friendly destination overall with no shortage of activities to keep kids of all ages occupied.

• Uplistsikhe & Vardzia: Georgia’s two most popular medieval cave cities.
• Okatse & Martvili canyons: A popular day trip from Kutaisi . For a less-touristy alternative, try nearby Balda canyon.
• Rabati Fortress: This restored Disneyland-like castle in Akhaltsikhe is a lot of fun to explore.
• Nokalakevi: For the open-air archaeological museum and sulfur pools.
• Bakuriani: Kids will love the Kukushka scenic railroad from Borjomi to Bakuriani.
• Shekvetili: Clean swimming beaches on the northern end of the Black Sea coast.

Pre-trip reading & viewing

If you want to learn a bit more about the history, culture and cuisine before you arrive in Georgia then I highly recommend checking out a few of these books, films and TV shows.

Books about Georgia

The Caucasus: An Introduction by Thomas de Waal. An essential introduction to culture, politics and religion in the Caucasus region.

Edge of Empires by Donald Rayfield. A comprehensive look at Georgia’s history through the lens of various invasions and conflicts.

A Little War That Shook the World by Ronald Asmus. Examines the 2008 conflict between Russia and Georgia.

Georgia: In the Mountains of Poetry by Peter Nasmyth. An all-encompassing introduction to contemporary Georgian history, culture and politics based on the firsthand experiences of an expat.

The Eighth Life by Nino Haratischvili. An award-winning novel described as Georgia’s War and Peace .

Ali and Nino by Kurban Said. By far my favourite book set in the region, this fictional classic is partially set in Tbilisi and Baku.

For the Love of Wine by Alice Feiring. An informative, easy-to-read travelogue-style introduction to the natural wine scene in Georgia.

Georgia: A Guide to the Cradle of Wine by Miquel Hudin & Daria Kholodilina. The ideal field guide for exploring the world of Georgian wine.

Tasting Georgia by Carla Capalbo. Recipes and food stories collected from Georgia.

Films & TV shows set in Georgia

• And Then We Danced . This hit movie, partially filmed in Tbilisi, caused a bit of a stir in Georgia when it was released. The Kartuli dance showcased in the movie is phenomenal.
• In Bloom . A coming-of-age film set in post-USSR Tbilisi.
• Hostages . Tells the story of seven young Georgians who attempted to flee the Soviet Union by hijacking an airliner.
• The Loneliest Planet . This 2011 movie was filmed in Georgia and focuses on a couple who trek across the Greater Caucasus mountains.
• Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown . See Bourdain’s visit to Georgia in Episode 5 of Season 7.
• Joanna Lumley’s Silk Road Adventure . Parts of this travel documentary series were filmed in Georgia and Azerbaijan.
• From Russia to Iran: Crossing Wild Frontier . Explorer Levison Wood crosses the Greater Caucasus on foot in this BBC series.
• Last Woman on Earth With Sara Pascoe . Georgia features in Episode 2 of Season 1.

Travelling to Armenia or Azerbaijan from Georgia

Many people choose to bundle at least two of the three South Caucasus nations into one trip. You’ll find that both Armenia and Azerbaijan are a contrast to Georgia – and yet the three nations also have a lot in common.

The easiest and safest way to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan (Armenia) or Baku (Azerbaijan) is by rail. You can find everything you need to know about using the overnight sleeper trains in my guides:

• Tbilisi to Yerevan sleeper train .
• Tbilisi to Baku sleeper train .

Another option is to travel by marshrutka to Northern Armenia via Southern Georgia’s Javakheti region, or to Sheki in Azerbaijan via Kakheti. See here for more bus travel tips for Azerbaijan.

Remember that the land border between Armenia and Azerbaijan is closed, so you’ll need to travel back through Georgia if you want to visit both countries. There are no restrictions on visiting Azerbaijan after Armenia or vice versa as long as you haven’t been to Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh).

Check out my country guides for more travel tips:

• Travel Guide for Armenia .
• Travel Guide for Azerbaijan .

Questions, comments or feedback? Feel free to leave me a comment or reach out via email. I hope this guide proves helpful when planning your visit to Georgia!

Save my Georgia Travel Guide on pinterest for later:

A first-timer's guide to Georgia, gateway to the Caucasus

Feb 17, 2022 • 9 min read

Georgia is a serene playground for hikers, but there's plenty here for city slickers too © Feng Wei Photography / Getty Images

At the boundary between Europe and Asia, Georgia has a growing reputation as the place to go for travelers who love exploring the fringes of the travel map. The oldest wine-producing nation in the world has a timeless quality that permeates its thriving cities, its bucolic mountain villages and its rugged mountain terrain.

The South Caucasus region spans Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan – nations still marked by the shadows of past conflicts and the long reach of their vast Russian neighbor to the north. But Georgia is emerging as the most popular and most accessible gateway to the Caucusus, helped by the growing buzz surrounding its energetic capital city, Tbilisi .

To help ease you into this fascinating corner of Europe, here's a guide for first-time visitors to Georgia.

Visa requirements for Georgia

Visiting Georgia is usually easy for travelers from most countries. Citizens of 98 nations – including the member states of the EU, Australia , New Zealand ,  USA , Canada , South Africa , Turkey , Russia and many nations in the Middle East, Central America and Central and Southeast Asia – can visit and stay in Georgia visa-free for 365 days. The Georgia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website has more details. Citizens of many other nations can apply for an  e-visa before departure , which requires five working days to process. Check the latest Covid regulations before booking your trip.

The best time to visit Georgia

Despite its mountainous topography, Georgia is a year-round destination. Late spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit Georgia's cities, the central plains and the low ridges of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south. Summer (July and August) can get uncomfortably hot and humid in the major cities but this is the peak holiday season on the Black Sea coast. With rising temperatures at higher elevations, summer is also the perfect time to visit the remote valleys and ridges of the Greater Caucasus Mountains in the north. 

November to April is the low season in Georgia, with temperatures dropping to below freezing, particularly at higher elevations. However, the chilly weather can start as early as October and last until mid-March. The winter months see heavy snow, particularly in the north of the country, attracting both on-piste skiers and free-riders to the slopes of ski resorts such as Gudauri , a two-hour drive north from Tbilisi.

How to get to Georgia by plane

Despite being on the fringes of Europe, Georgia is relatively accessible from most parts of the world. The international airports at Tbilisi , Kutaisi and Batumi are served by numerous carriers – including the national airline, Georgian Airways . The most frequent flights are from Turkey and the Gulf States.

The easiest place to fly into is Tbilisi International Airport , which receives regular flights from cities in Western Europe and the Middle East. The list of budget airlines serving Georgia changes regularly, but Tbilisi and Kutaisi are the main budget hubs. The seaside resort town of Batumi  is served by a handful of airlines, with regular flights to Turkey, Ukraine and the Middle East.

How to get to Georgia by land and sea

Georgia has one land border with Russia, close to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) , with road transport on to the Russian town of Vladikavkaz. Turkey and Georgia share three land borders, of which Sarpi–Hopa near Batumi is the most frequently used, with easy onward travel along the Black Sea coast to Trabzon . Frequent passenger and cargo ferries transport visitors to Georgia's main ports at Poti and Batumi from destinations around the Black Sea.

Borders to Armenia (Sadakhlo–Bagratashen) and Azerbaijan (Red Bridge–Shikhli) are within an hour's drive of Tbilisi, allowing easy onward travel deeper into the Caucasus by bus, marshrutka (minibus) or rail. Night trains run daily to Baku , while overnight sleepers to Yerevan run daily from June to September, then every second day for the rest of the year. A rail link from Tbilisi to Istanbul in Turkey is under development, but currently, the section between Kars and Batumi must be completed by bus. 

Getting around in Georgia's cities

Georgia's major cities have relatively well-organized public transport systems, though not much in the way of integrated public transport. Tbilisi is the only city with a metro; in the rest of Georgia, the primary means of transportation are buses and Russian-style marshrutky (minibuses). 

Tbilisi's metro has just two lines, making it very easy to navigate. To explore the city, buy a Metromoney card from a metro-station ticket office and use it to pay for metro trips, city buses and marshrutky . City buses run on schedules displayed on digital boards at the bus stops, but m arshrutky run more often than buses, making them a favored means of transport for locals.

Traveling around Georgia

As well as being the backbone of public transport in cities, marshrutky are the most-used form of transport when traveling around the country. Services between major hubs run approximately every hour, depending on the destination. However, minibuses are the least comfortable option, with little legroom or space for luggage. In Tbilisi, Didube Bus Station has marshrutky going west, while vehicles going east depart from Navtlughi Bus Station. 

Georgia also has a fairly well-organized train system, run by Georgian Railway . However, the network is only slowly being upgraded from Soviet times, and trains take longer to get to their destinations than marshrutky  or buses. The only moderately fast train runs on the Tbilisi–Batumi route; book well ahead on this line in summer.

Money tips for Georgia

ATMs are widely available, easy to access and safe to use in cities and small towns in Georgia. The majority of businesses accept card payments, including hotels, convenience shops, restaurants, and pharmacies. However, if you're heading into the mountains or remote villages, be sure to take cash with you. US dollars and euros are the most useful currencies to carry as backup cash.

Travel costs in Georgia

Depending on how you choose to travel, Georgia can be either expensive or very budget-friendly. There are comfortable international hotel chains for those willing to spend a little more, but Georgia also has plenty of small boutique hotels, inexpensive guesthouses and apartments for rent. Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi are particularly well stocked with accommodation. Renting a central apartment from Airbnb can cost as little as 100 GEL (US$35) a night, while a mid-range hotel room will cost from 40 GEL (US$15) upwards.

Georgia doesn't have any Michelin-star restaurants, but the national cuisine is feted as the best in the Caucasus, and there are plenty of opportunities to feast at all price ranges. For luxurious dinners, check out the best restaurants in Tbilisi or Batumi – dinner often comes with a spectacular panoramic city view. A meal in a high-end restaurant with a bottle of premium Georgian wine can set you back 100 GEL (US$35) or more, but eating at local restaurants will rarely set you back more than 20 GEL (US$7) for two courses.

The price of public transport in major cities can be as little as 1 GEL (US$0.34) for a local marshrutka ride. Tickets to travel around the country by  marshrutka and bus vary depending on the destination; the ride between Tbilisi and Batumi costs around 30 GEL (US$10). Sightseeing is moderately priced as well – museum entry fees range from 3 GEL (US$1) to 15 GEL (US$5).

What to eat in Georgia

Georgian food is the original fusion cuisine , influenced by flavors from both Europe and Asia. The Georgian kitchen makes extensive use of local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables, many kinds of bread, walnuts, cheeses and various spices that show the influence of neighboring Turkey and Russia. Vegetarians will find plenty of plant-based meals as well, though vegans may struggle with the widespread use of cheese.

Khinkali , boiled meat dumplings, are one of the national dishes of Georgia and a firm favorite meal for locals and visitors. Another must-try treat is khachapuri , a pizza-like cheese pie that is similar to a Turkish pide ; every region has its own version. Another staple is mtsvadi – grilled pork or beef chunks on a skewer – which plays an obvious nod to Russian shashlik , Turkish shish kebabs and Greek souvlaki .

To lighten your lunch or dinner, order pkhali, a simple but healthy tomato and cucumber salad with a walnut and vegetable paste. Spinach, eggplant, beetroot leaves and cabbage are also common ingredients in pkhali . As a snack to munch while exploring, seek out churchkhela , nuts preserved in a chewy confection made from grape juice.

Georgian wine is famous across the region, and it's well worth sampling local vintages from the  Kakheti region when you come. Be sure to try qvevri wines, which are generally organic and unfiltered and have a very distinctive taste. For something stronger, chacha is a traditional Georgian spirit made from fermented grape skins, and it makes a nice break from the ubiquitous vodka. Last but not least, try Borjomi, a salty mineral water that was the beverage of choice for every Soviet leader from Lenin onwards.

Get to know Georgian culture

When traveling to a new country, it's always helpful to know a few words in the local language, and Georgia is no exception. The Georgian language has only around 4 million speakers, and knowing essential words such as gamarjoba (hello) and madloba (thank you) will get you a warm smile of appreciation from the locals. 

Georgians are known for their hospitality. A guest for Georgians is "a gift from God," so don't be surprised if a stranger you met an hour ago invites you home for dinner with their family. If you choose to go, go hungry; the host will insist you eat every dish on the table and drink as much wine as you possibly can. 

Georgia is still a traditional country when it comes to social mores. Very short skirts or dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, and skimpy or see-through clothes are likely to attract a stare. When entering churches, women should cover their heads and shoulders (some churches will provide scarves for this, but it's better to bring your own). Skirts and shorts (for men and women) should cover the knee. Men should also ensure shoulders are covered and ideally wear trousers rather than shorts.

You might also like: Tower-house trails: trekking in Georgia Tbilisi's top 10 experiences A guide to food in Georgia, the original fusion cuisine

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2022

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• Why Georgia
• Destinations
• Things To Do
• Nature & Adventure
• Useful Info

Tips & how to travel to Georgia in 2024

By Joan Torres 23 Comments Last updated on April 25, 2024

Georgia is the ultimate European travel destination. 

This Caucasian country is home to, definitely, the most striking mountains in Europe, composed of massive glaciers, fairy meadows, and 5,000-meter snowed capped peaks; and great, vibrant capital, very Eastern European on the one hand but, on the other, with its unique Caucasian and Georgian identity and filled with the most unimaginable chaos. 

Barely discovered by the average traveler, Georgia is a country with a very strong national character, visible in many aspects, from having their own Christian branch to a unique architectural style, a very elaborate cuisine considered the best in the former Soviet Union and a deeply rooted wine culture. 

I lived and traveled in Georgia for more than 7 months, and it is truly one of those countries which, every time I write about its beautiful things, I can’t avoid falling into nostalgia. 

Georgia is a great country and this guide contains everything you need to know for traveling to Georgia , from how to get a visa to cultural facts, trekking advice, and plenty of travel tips, making it the most detailed Georgia travel blog. 

In this Georgia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit Georgia
• Travel Insurance
• How to get in
• 5 Top experiences
• Is Georgia safe?
• The people and the culture
• Non-recognized republics
• Get off the beaten track
• Soviet heritage in Georgia
• Georgian food
• Transportation in Georgia
• Accommodation
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Georgia

With its backpacker plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for any kind of trekking destination, like Georgia.

🪪 Visa for traveling to Georgia

Free one-year visa.

Georgia has one of the greatest visa regimes in the world, as you can get a 1-year FREE visa upon arrival in the country. 

You can live in Georgia for the rest of your life

The best part is that this 1 year gets automatically renewed once you leave and re-enter the country, even if you cross the Armenian border and come back after one minute. This means that you can stay in Georgia forever. 

Which nationalities?

Here you can see the list of the countries (94) which are eligible for the 1-year travel visa, which includes all Western Nationalities, Latin America, and all high GDP Asian nationalities. 

By the way, apparently, EU citizens can enter the country without a passport, with just their national ID but, just in case, I recommend you bring both. 

Other nationalities can get an online visa

Then, some countries like India, China or Egypt , among many others, can apply for an e-visa through this portal . 

Remember to read my Tbilisi travel guide

⛅ Best time to visit Georgia

First of all, you should know that Tbilisi can be visited all year long as, in winter, it never gets too cold plus you won’t find tourists. Summer is particularly hot in Tbilisi but it is the best season to enjoy the rest of the country. 

• Visit Georgia in winter – Georgia has a few ski resorts, Gudauri being the most popular one, around 3 hours away from Tbilisi. Obviously, their ski resorts are not as great as the ones in Europe, but they are all right and for people living in Dubai and other warm areas, Georgia might be the best nearby ski destination.
• Visit Georgia in spring – Beautiful landscapes and many sunny days but it might be too early to go trekking in the Georgian Caucasus . 
• Visit Georgia in summer – The best time for trekking in the high Caucasus and visiting the coastal area. 
• Visit Georgia in autumn – Mid-September is the harvest season, so for wine lovers, this is the best time to visit Kakheti region . 

I personally think that September would be the ideal month to travel to Georgia because the trekking season is not over yet, it is harvest season, the weather in Tbilisi is great and the big crowds have already gone. 

🚑 Insurance for traveling to Georgia

Georgia is a trekking destination, so get travel insurance that covers adventure destinations and activities.

For this, I strongly recommend IATI Insurance :

• It covers adventure activities, including trekking in high-altitudes
• Multi-country coverage and up to 1-year trips
• Covers senior citizens too.
• 5% discount for being a readers of this blog

🛫 How to get to Georgia

How to travel to georgia by air.

• Via Tbilisi – Tbilisi has many connections with Europe, some Asian destinations and Dubai and other Middle Eastern cities. 
• Via Kutaisi – There is a low-cost airport, with many Wizzair flights coming from several European cities, so it would also be a great chance to visit Kutaisi .

How to travel to Georgia by land

• Russia – Officially, only one border with Russia is open, which is the one in Kazbegi . Then, you have the South Ossetian border, which can’t be used for entering/exiting Georgia, and the border with Abkhazia, which can be used for exiting but not entering. For more information, read my travel guide to Abkhazia . 
• Azerbaijan – There are two official borders, one closer to Tbilisi, which can be crossed by train, and the other one in the Kakheti region . Both are friendly and very easy to cross. Read my Azerbaijan itinerary for more information. 
• Armenia – There are three borders to choose from, depending on where you want to go. 
• Turkey – The are two very friendly borders, the easiest being the coastal one, which takes you straight to Batumi. 
• Ukraine – You can travel to Georgia by ferry from Odesa in Ukraine. There are two companies offering this service, Ukrferry , and Ferrysped , and detailed schedules may be found on their websites. A ticket costs around 100USD. Read my travel guide to Ukraine

Read: Everything you must know for visiting Iran

📚 The best books on Georgia

These are just my favorite 2 books. For more options, check the best 15 books on Georgia

Georgia Diary: A Chronicle of War and Political Chaos in the Post-Soviet Caucasus – Thomas Goltz

In this insightful book, Thomas Goltz tells all the struggles Georgia went through after the independence from the Soviet Union, ranging from separatists conflicts (Abkhazia), the war of neighboring Chechenya, corruption, crime, and endless politicals problems.

Bread And Ashes: A Walk Through the Mountains of Georgia – Tony Anderson

If you ever traveled to Georgia and had to read one single book on the country, I would definitely recommend this one.

The author Tony Anderson traveled across the Georgian High Caucasus in 1998, on foot, through Tusheti, Khevsureti, Racha and Svaneti. In his journey, he discovered something that I have always been saying in all my articles, which is that despite belonging to the Soviet Union and basically, being the crossroads of the world, this part of Georgia managed to keep their culture and ancient traditions intact.

This book is great not only to also understand Georgian’s national identity but also to learn about the Caucasian ethnicity and culture.

🛖 5 Top experiences in Georgia

1 – explore the capital, tbilisi.

Whether you come for sightseeing, partying or to live your life as a digital nomad, Tbilisi is a great capital to spend a couple of days in.

2 – Discover the Communist Heritage of Georgia

From abandoned factories to masterpieces of Soviet Modernism, Communist buildings and functioning infrastructure, as a former Soviet Union country, Georgia has the largest Communist heritage I have ever seen.

Check this Soviet modernist building:

3 – Wander around unspoiled Mountain villages of Tusheti

One of the remotest mountain regions in Georgia, only accessible by a 4×4 through a 3,000-meter pass, and where you find some of the most unspoiled mountain villages in the country.

4 – Visit Kakheti during harvest season

Georgia was the first country ever to produce wine and Kakheti is the region where most wine is produced, so I recommend you go there during harvest season and visit small, random wineries to see how wine is made most traditionally.

Read my Kakheti travel guide

5 – Visit the Muslim villages of Adjara

Georgia was never fully under Ottoman rule, just a small part of it one occupied part being the mountains that stretch from the coast along the Turkish border, and that is the reason why most people living there are Muslims.

That area is named Adjara, and its tiny villages are home to absolutely hospitable people and aluminum-made mosques.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Georgia?

There is not much to say here other than Georgia is very safe to visit, as it enjoys some of the lowest crime rates ever. 

In fact, I used to work in different cafés around Tbilisi every day and I was very surprised that the Georgians would always leave their laptops and belongings on the table and go outside for a couple of minutes, something I would never do in Spain or in pretty much any European city.

Traveling to Georgia is safe, really, including for solo women. 

Are you traveling to Central Asia? Check my travel guide to Central Asia

🕌 The people, the culture and the country

The country.

Georgia is a country located in the Caucasus region that used to be part of the Soviet Union until its dissolution in 1991. It is located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, which made it particularly appealing and convenient to occupy for several empires, from the Mongols to the Ottomans, the Persians and, of course, the Russians, both the Russian Empire and the USSR.

Georgia is a country with many layers of history, absolutely fascinating, yet, and, surprisingly, they have been able to maintain their strong culture and character, very different from anywhere else you may have been to. 

Read: What to do in Iran for 1 month

Is it part of Europe or not?

From a geographical point of view, the country is literally, right in between Asia and Europe, in Eurasia, so some people may argue when it comes to allocating it.

To be honest, I don’t really care where it sits because I personally think that its culture is more important than its geographic location and, in my opinion, Georgia has many similarities to Eastern Europe, more than even Turkey, which is geographically closer; and it barely shares any similarity with its Central Asian cousins and it is extremely different from any country in the Middle East . 

Moreover, as a Spaniard, I will even tell you that they have many similarities with South Europeans, especially Greeks and Spaniards, not only in the way we look like but also, in the way we eat, drink and sit around the table.

Actually, some studies confirm that Georgians have common ancestry with Basque people, a separate nation within Spain. 

So yes, I think that Georgia is part of Europe. 

Georgia and Russia

Heads-up. Georgians don’t like Russians, for many reasons, but mainly due to the Georgian-Russian war in 2008 . I don’t really want to enter into politics but, basically, Georgia went to war with South Ossetia, a region that wanted to separate from Georgia and had the support of Russia, which ended up into a military invasion of Georgia with Russian tanks. 

It is, of course, much more complicated than that, but this is what most Georgians will tell you and, if you meet some Georgians, you are likely to hear them complaining about Russians all the time. 

This topic is kind of controversial because Georgia largely depends on Russian tourism, and they can actually travel to Georgia visa-free, but Georgians need to go through a very tedious process to enter Russia. 

My country is 20% occupied by Russia If you stay in the country for long enough, you are going to hear this sentence quite often, directly from Georgians or even written on blackboards from the most progressive bars. This 20% refers to South Ossetia and the Republic of Abkhazia .    

Georgia is where traditional and European values collapse

Tbilisi is one of those capitals which, on the one hand, is home to a very traditional and super religious, conservative society which still lives in the last century and, on the other hand, a large young population, very open-minded in all senses and with very strong European values. 

From not hiding their homosexuality to fighting for gender equality, the young crowd is really demanding change.

They would like to be at the level of any EU country, to be part of it even, but, unfortunately, they are in conflict with the large, utterly conservative branch, who are supported by the powerful Church and, as a result, many of their demonstrations end up with violence. 

Really, when I was living there in 2018, I witnessed quite a few extremely violent episodes. 

The language 

Georgians speak Georgian , a language whose origins are a bit uncertain plus it is similar to nothing you ever listened to. They also have their own alphabet, pretty beautiful in my opinion. 

How to communicate with the locals

In Tbilisi, most young people speak good English but outside of Tbilisi not that much. Unlike in most former Soviet countries, in Georgia, they stopped teaching Russian at school right after their independence, which means that people who were born after 1991 don’t speak Russian at all, and some of the older generation who do don’t really like to speak it for the above-mentioned reasons. 

85% of Georgians belong to a Christian branch named Georgian Orthodox, one of the world’s most ancient Churches, founded in the 1st Century and the main reason why Georgians have been able to preserve their national identity despite all the invasions. 

Georgia is the most religious Christian country I have ever been to, a country where you are going to see a lot of young people crossing themselves every time they pass a Church. 

By the way, visiting the endless Georgian Orthodox churches and monasteries is one of the highlights, as they tend to be built in epic locations, plus they have their own architectural style. 

Furthermore, 10% are Muslims, mainly living in Adjara, a region bordering Turkey, as that area used to be part of the Ottoman Empire. 

Read: What to do in Azerbaijan in 3 weeks

The unrecognized republics within Georgia

In this Georgia travel guide, I think it is a good idea to mention some independent, yet, non-recognized, countries you may not have heard of. 

Basically, an unrecognized republic is a country that has got its independence, but, nobody in the international community recognizes it, which means that the UN doesn’t acknowledge its existence. 

There are many ghost countries around the world and in Georgia, you find two: Abkhazia and South Ossetia. 

Those countries declared themselves independent from Georgia, which led to a bloody war and, since nobody recognized them, they weren’t able to be part of the international banking system and their borders were closed, so today, they are economically backed up by Russia, in exchange for recognition, influence and military presence. 

However, entering these enclaves feels like being in a totally different country, as they have a border, require separate visas, have a distinct culture and Georgia has absolutely zero power and influence over them. 

• Abkhazia – You can easily visit it from Georgia and all you need is an e-visa which takes one week to process. For more information, read: How to travel to Abkhazia . 
• South Ossetia – Not accessible from Georgia: you can only enter from Russia and you may need to have a double-entry Russian visa. 

Read my articles to other unrecognized countries:

• Transnistria

🧭 Getting off the beaten track when you go backpacking in Georgia

Georgia is an emerging tourist destination but I think that, in a couple of years, it will enter the mass tourism destination stage. 

In fact, some parts of Georgia, like Kazbegi or Mestia are already quite commercialized, which means that taxi rip-offs are common and the locals don’t care about anything but the money you have in your pocket. 

It is a pity because Georgians are known for their humble hospitality and it seems that this commercialization came too quickly.

Nevertheless, don’t be disappointed because most of the country has been barely visited by tourists and there are many pure regions, pretty raw, where the locals will bless you with their hospitality. These are the best off the beaten track places to go backpacking in Georgia:

• The mountains of Adjara (bordering Turkey)
• Some villages of Kakheti

Soviet Heritage in Georgia

Like I said before, the Georgia-Russia relationship is kind of controversial because, on one side, they want to erase any Russian influence from their culture but, on the other side, here you find a shit load of Soviet Heritage, much more than in its neighbor Azerbaijan , a Soviet Country that decided to eliminate most Soviet buildings, yet, they have good relations with mother Russia. 

Some Soviet relics you may find:

• Soviet Modernism – Soviet Modernism was an artistic movement that flourished during the last decades of the USSR and mainly consisted of buildings with particularly weird shapes. Well, in Tbilisi you find traces of this movement everywhere. 
• Concrete Soviet buildings – Outside of the Old City, most of the buildings are from the Communist era, especially in the suburbs, where everything remains untouched. 
• Abandoned factories – There are loads of abandoned Soviet factories all over the country, my favorite being the one in Zestaponi. 
• Mining towns – Chiatura used to be one of the most important centers for the mining industry in the Soviet Union (Stalin himself used to live here) and the town hasn’t changed much since then.

Here you can learn more about Soviet countries in Europe

🏔️ Trekking in Georgia

Georgia is the ultimate trekking destination, home to some of the highest mountains in Europe, with its highest peak being Shkhara , located at 5,193 meters. 

A few things you should know about trekking in Georgia:

• Most of the high mountains are located in the north of the country, at the heart of the Greater Caucasus. 
• If you are planning to trek in high altitudes, summer is the ideal season but the end of spring and beginning of autumn should be good as well.
• The Greater Caucasus is no joke, as it offers some really challenging treks and the weather is highly unpredictable. If you don’t have much experience, don’t go alone, or try doing one of the busy, popular treks.
• Except in some parts of Svaneti and Tusheti, you won’t find any guesthouses along the way, so you must bring proper mountain equipment. 
• From epic glaciers to mind-blowing snow-capped peaks, the mountains of Georgia are a real wonder, so enjoy. 

For more information, including my personal tips + a packing list, read my trekking guide to Georgia .

If you really want to know about all the hiking trails in Georgia, I recommend you check this website: Caucasus Trekking – It contains very detailed guides to pretty much any trek in Georgia. 

🍷 Wine in Georgia (and chacha )

Wine is part of Georgian’s identity and, therefore, the highlight of traveling to Georgia and it truly deserves a single section in this Georgia travel guide. 

Archaeological evidence shows that they have been producing wine for nearly 8,000 years, making them one of the oldest countries in the world , if not the oldest, to ever produce wine. 

Traditionally, they used to make wine in something called qvevri , which are some clay vessels which are placed on the floor of a room called marani . This used to be the traditional way and, like most traditions in Georgia, many wineries still use it. 

In rural areas and smaller towns, it seems that everybody produces their own wine at home and, if you are staying in a traditional guest house, it is not uncommon that your host will probably offer you some for breakfast, no kidding. 

It also happened to us that random people stopped us in the middle of the street to just greet us and give a few litters of wine, for free. 

The fact is that Georgian wine is everywhere, and you are going to find good wine and bad wine but the most important is that for just a few €, you can find some good stuff. 

If you want to really witness the wine culture in Georgia, you must visit Georgia in September, during the harvest season, when all Kakheti is filled with Soviet trucks extra loaded with grapes and all the small wineries are in their production stages. 

By the way, Georgia produces a large variety of grapes but the most common ones would be Saperavi for red wine and Rkatsiteli for white wine. 

What about chacha ?

When Georgians don’t drink wine, they drink chacha, a really strong liquor usually made from grape which can easily contain up to 60-70% of alcohol.

You will be surprised to know that some guest houses also offer you chacha for breakfast. 

We also got offered chacha by many taxi drivers, bus drivers and just random people we bumped into. 

Moldova has a very similar wine culture. Read my Moldova travel guide

🍲 Georgian cuisine: what are you like to eat when visiting Georgia

The food is another of the highlights of visiting Georgia. 

In fact, Georgian cuisine is the cuisine of reference in the Soviet Union, to the extent that the best local restaurants in Ukraine and Russia are Georgian restaurants. 

Their food, however, tends to be heavy but they offer a large variety of dishes and, unlike all the developing countries I have been to, in Tbilisi you already find quite a few restaurants serving high local cuisine.

Cheese, walnuts and meat, loads of meat, are usually the core of any of their meals but they also have many vegetarian options, especially eggplant dishes. 

Some of the dishes you are likely to taste are:

Churchkhela

Churchkhela is not really a dish but a traditional candle-shaped candy, and I am putting it on the top of the list because you find it everywhere.

Basically, it consists of walnuts and almonds dipped into a super thick, and extremely hot, grape juice, which they need to hang for a couple of hours to dry out.

Don’t buy it in touristic areas, as they charge 4 or 5 times the actual price. The local price is 2-3GEL per unit. 

The local dumplings, typically stuffed with meat. You may also find them stuffed with cheese and other ingredients but those are aimed at tourists.

By the way, the local way to eat them is biting one a tiny bit to suck all the meat broth and then eating it as if it was an apple. 

Khachapuri Adjaluri

Khachapuri is, basically baked bread with melted cheese, but they have many variations and adjaluri is boat-shaped khachapuri with loads of melted cheese, butter and an egg floating over on top of it.

Badridzhani Nigvsit

Grilled eggplants with walnut paste. Perhaps, my favorite. 

Chicken in walnut sauce. This dish tends to be expensive and not available on most menus but I strongly recommend you order it, at least once. 

Bean stew, usually served with cornbread and pickles. 

Gobi is a special starter dish containing several vegetarian snacks such as phkali , which are spinach balls with walnut paste. 

The local grilled sausage.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Georgia

Wi-Fi – Wi-Fi is great throughout the country. In the mountains, the signal is bad, of course, but you can still connect to pretty much anywhere, even in Tusheti. 

SIM Card – Magticom is the mobile company I was using and I remember that for just a few €, you can get loads of GB every month. The best is that you can top-up your phone online. Check their website for the latest deals. 

eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Georgia

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Georgia . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Get a VPN for traveling in Georgia

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Georgia. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Georgia – Georgia travel budget

In Georgia, they use the Georgian Lari (GEL) and, approximately:

1 USD = 2.64 GEL

They call the small currency Tetris.

Credit cards and ATMs

In Tbilisi, you can pay by credit card pretty much anywhere and ATMs abound, all of them accepting international credit cards. You will need cash for taxis and the traditional shops. Outside of Tbilisi, do bring cash. 

Exchanging money

Exchanging money is easy and € and USD are accepted everywhere. 

How much does it cost to travel in Georgia? 

The good news is that Georgia is really, really cheap. 

How much does food cost in Georgia?

• A meal in budget, local eateries – Around 7-10GEL
• A meal in higher quality restaurants – Around 15-25GEL
• A meal in top-end restaurants – From 50-60GEL
• Cappuccino – 4-5GEL
• Local beer – 2-3GEL
• A glass of local wine – 2-4GEL
• A glass of good quality wine – 8-11GEL

How much does transportation cost in Georgia?

• Taxis within Tbilisi – 3-5GEL
• Bus/metro ride – 0.50GEL
• Marshrutka to Mtskheta – 1GEL
• Marshrutka to Kazbegi – 10GEL
• Train to Batumi – 50GEL

How much does accommodation cost in Georgia?

• Budget Hostels – From 15GEL
• Double room in a budget guest house – From 40-50GEL
• Double room in a mid-range hotel – From 80GEL

Backpacking Budget for Georgia: from 25-30€ a day

🛺 Transportation – How to go backpacking Georgia

How to move around tbilisi:.

• Taxi – If you want to get the cheapest rates (and avoid bargaining), download Yandex or Taxify. Most rides cost around 3-5GEL. 
• Metro – There are two metro lines. A single metro ride costs 0.50GEL, but you need to first buy a metro card for 2GEL. 
• Bus – It works with the same metro card and Google Maps tells you the bus number of your route. 
• Yellow mini-vans – You will also see some yellow mini-vans roaming around Tbilisi. They are private and one single ticket costs 0.80GEL. However, they are more difficult to use because the signs are in the Georgian alphabet. 

How to move around Georgia:

Marshrutka – Marshrutkas are the tiny mini-vans used to move around the country. They go pretty much anywhere, are the cheapest way to move around and leave once they are full. However, the drivers are literally crazy, seriously, some of the craziest I have ever met, and note that I have been traveling in places known for their crazy driving like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan . 

Train – There is a train line that goes all the way to Zugdidi, Batumi and also to Armenia and Azerbaijan. You can book your train tickets at the train station itself but I used to buy them online through this website . Do book them in advance, especially in summer because they run out pretty quickly. 

Renting a car – When my parents came to visit us in Georgia, we traveled around Georgia for a week by car. It is very convenient and, if you drive carefully, you should be all right. We used a local company named parent.ge , which is significantly cheaper than most international branches. The owner of this company was our landlord, Dato. He is a cool guy. 

Here you can find more information on renting a car in Georgia .

🏨 Accommodation in Georgia

In Georgia, you find a wide range of accommodation throughout the country:

Hostels – In Tbilisi, you can find a shit load of hostels.

Guest Houses – Budget, lovely guesthouses also abound all over Georgia. 

Hotels – From 5-star hotels in Tbilisi to the mountain lodges in Kazbegi, the hotel options are endless. 

Homestays – In Svaneti and Tusheti, homestays are the way to go. 

❗ More information for traveling to Georgia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Georgia destination

• Travel Guide to Kakheti
• Travel Guide to Kazbegi
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Georgia Itinerary
• Best Books on Georgia
• Trekking Guide to Georgia

Facebook Groups – Expats in Tbilisi and Georgian Wanderers are some great Facebook Groups where you can ask questions. 

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

• Belarus Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Moldova
• Azerbaijan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• Travel Guide to Tajikistan
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Kazakhstan Travel Guide

23 comments

Georgia is a beautiful country and you also described it more beautifully and worthy. Nice photos with good content.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Hi Joan, Thanks for sharing. Very informative content and quite different from other travel blogs especially the Russian buildings. BTW, I will be travelling from Tbilisi to Chiatura on June 23, do you have any idea how much does it cost by shared taxi (We are a group of 3 adults) so that I have some ideas on it rather than being ripped off. Actually I did ask for private transfer, it quotes 270 GEL, seem quite expensive for me. Hope you can give me some advice on this as you have been in Tbilisi for quite a time. Thanks in advance for your help! Cheers!

Hi Paulina, I don’t know if there are shared taxis going to Chiatura but, from Didube station, you can take the marshrutka that goes to Kutaisi, which costs 15GEl if I am not mistaken, drop off in Zestaponi and from there, take a second marshrutka to Chiatura.

Joan, as always a very informative and comprehensive post – thanks a lot!

But to be honest I have never thought of Georgia as “barely discovered by the average traveler”. Quite the contrary to be honest. By average you mean western European tourists? Because it is (and has been for quite some years) one of key tourism destination for eastern Europe and Russia… Gone are the days when Georgia was an unknown country. Last time I visited (in 2016 and off season) only to find that it is quite prepared for mass tourism and even then (January) there were quite a lot of tourists not only in Tbilisi, but also in Kutaisi and, of course, Singhnaghi. Very different to how it was, let’s say 10 years ago. I will be back again in few days and I wonder or rather I am a bit afraid, how things have changed in these 3 years and how is Georgia during high season. Even now, without Russian tourists.

I will check the tarmac road in Kazbegi 😉 Hope it will decrease a bit the taxi mafia… Cheers!

very interestingly written and informative content. Different and unique from other blogs same like Georgia. Thanks for sharing your experience in so detail , it was very helpful

Really fantastic blog! My wife and I are in the early stages of planning a 6 week trip to Georgia,Azerbaijan and possibly Armenia and I’m delighted to read that there is a border crossing between Sighnaghi and Azerbaijan,as we’d like to travel the High Caucasus on our way to Baku before catching the train back to Tbilisi. Can you confirm that there is definitely no border crossing from Agstafa into Armenia as without that,I think we may have to give Armenia a miss this time. Will now get your Georgia guide! Thanks,Peter

Hey Peter, thanks for your kind message! No border crossing between Armenia & Azerbaijan, 100%, unfortunately.

Hi Joan, My buddy and I are looking at visiting for a 3 day weekend from Frankfurt (COVID travel pending of course). We saw some pretty nice looking tours on Trip Advisor to Vardzia-Rabati-borjomi-back to Tbilsi, and another to Kazbegi. Both tours are 10 to 14 hours. Do you have any suggested tours. Due to COVID we had to announce our vacation time a lot earlier from work so we figured we would try to get a taste of Georgia, and then return next year if it is as it seems, beautiful.

Hi Aaron, I don’t know about any specific tours, other than the one recommended in the articles from GetYourGuide, sorry

Nicely informative narrative but of course impossible to evaluate for what may have been left out for a first time tourist that could be of interest. Well, that’s the adventure aspect in travel, isn’t it. Like, hooking up, female sexual mores, clubbing, etc. Also missing was any mention of medical, dentistry, and hospital services in the nation. All in all a good, readable word on Georgia. Thanks.

Hi Joan, I am planning to visit Georgia and other neighbouring countries such as Mongolia post-COVID 19, in 2022. Thank you so much for a very informative blog and beautiful photos of Georgia. I will need a visa as I am a Papua New Guinean. I reckon the closest place to get a Georgian visa will be Australia our neighbour to the south. I am not a trekker but love walks and want to find out if Tbilisi has lakes in the city or near the city. I am interested in buying your book so will check out Amazon. Would love a copy of your book ‘Against the Compass’ – it sounds exciting and different.

Thanks, Mari, I wish you all the best with your visa, and let me know if you need anything

Hey Joan! Incredible post. I’m fully vaccinated (yayyy) and planning a trip to Georgia this spring – so soon. I can’t wait to buy your book and learn more. I’m curious, have you heard anything about the country actually being open? I know that I can travel there with vaccine proof but I’m curious what it will be like once I arrive.

Hi Kylee! I think Georgia is now requiring a mandatory quarantine, but they kept it changing every now and then, and not sure how it works with people who are vaccinated. Did you check on IATA?

Hi Joan, I just came across your account of living in Georgia, I enjoyed the read and have subscribed!

I’m a solo female traveller from Canada and I have a specific question I’d like to ask you about the South Ossetia region. I’d like to visit the Gudauri Ski Area, and from what I can tell this area “seems” to fall within the South Ossetia region. I say “seems’ because I’m finding a lot of different information. From what I can understand the border is not static and is always fluctuating. My government’s travel website says that this region is not recommended for travel, and as such my insurance would not cover me if I have an incident in this region. So I’m just trying to find out from someone who’s been there what their take on it is, is the ski resort in this region and is it a generally safe place to visit? It looks like a chill place with new hotels opening up. And a great place to spend a few days playing in the snow! (I heard about the chair lift incident in 2018, but hopefully they’ve worked out this issues)

I hope that you are able to help me out, any information you can provide would be great.

Hi Leslie, thanks for your message! Gudauri is near South Ossetia but it doesn’t belong to the region. It’s a very safe touristic area, however, and as you well said, there are many hotels.

South Ossetia on the other hand is a breakaway territory today only accessible from Russia. I would not say it’s dangerous but you cannot access from Georgia anyways and even from Russia is tricky.

Thank you for the quick reply! I will continue to plan my ski trip and I can’t wait to get out there!

> Really, when I was living there in 2018, I witnessed quite a few extremely violent episodes.

Sad to say, but things are getting only worse. Orthodox priests were just yesterday beating journalists and gays while police was just watching and enjoying the show. The ruling mafia and extremist Georgian Orthodox church are promoting violence, intolerance and racism against sexual minorities, Russians and everyone who threatens their Jihadist values and way of life. And high level of nationalism is boosting xenophobia.

We are planning a lengthy European trip from early spring to late autumn in ’25 or ’26 , I am planning buying or renting a camper van for ease of travel, the trip includes Western Turkey. How easy is it to drive along the Black Sea coast and enter Georgia by private vehicle, any insurance problems ? Could the return trip be via Russia and/or Ukraine, is there a vehicle ferry from Georgia to the Ukraine ? PS, I have driven to India via Turkey in the past, so I am aware of many potential problems for the traveler. Thank you, David

Hi David, driving along the route is super easy, no hassle at all, but I am not sure about travel insurance. That’s something you’ll need to figure out. Via Russia is also OMK, as long as you have a visa. No VOA available.

Hi David, Thanks for sharing! We were considering Georgia for travel in 2022, however with the eastern europe conflict, is this something you think would make Georgia unsafe for travel in 2022?

What a fantastic resource for discovering Georgia in 2023! This article gives such a clear impression of this lovely nation, from its breath taking surroundings to its distinct culture and welcoming people. Every phrase shows the author’s obvious passion for Georgia, which makes me want to go on my own adventure there. The helpful advice on visas, travel insurance, and the ideal times to visit is of the utmost value. Additionally, the inhabitants’ emphasis on safety and friendliness is quite touching. It is excellent to emphasise Georgia’s extensive history, diverse language, and, of course, its renowned wine culture. This page serves as a travel guide as well as an open invitation to first-hand experience Georgia’s charm. I’m grateful to you for sharing this amazing story, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it myself!

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Georgia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, georgia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Georgia. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel To:

• The Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of  crime, civil unrest, and landmines .

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Georgia.

If you decide to travel to Georgia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Georgia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

South Ossetia and Abkhazia – Do Not Travel

Russian troops and border guards occupy both South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The precise locations of administrative boundary lines are difficult to identify. Entering the occupied territories will likely result in your arrest, imprisonment, and/or a fine. Violent attacks and criminal incidents occur in the region. Landmines pose a danger to travelers near the boundary lines of both territories.

The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, as U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling there.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, georgia map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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9 Things to Know Before Visiting The Country of Georgia

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

It’s funny how you can be incredibly eager to visit a place and yet know very little about the place at the same time. That’s how I was with the country of Georgia . For years I’d been determined to visit Georgia and the Caucasus region, without any real justification as to why. People I knew had been and highly recommended it but no particular reasons why had stuck with me. Having been now, I can see why visiting Georgia is making so many lists for the best places to visit in 2020.

Surely part of the appeal was the idea of travelling into the unknown. While that can be good fun and all, there were definitely things that would have been good to know before going to Georgia. I’m not talking about things like spending longer than I did, even though 10 days turned out to be nowhere near enough. That alone is a reason why I’ll probably be returning to Georgia this year. Nor is it travel tips like exploring beyond the capital Tbilisi , something else you should totally do.

No, these are things to know before visiting Georgia the country that hopefully will help inform your trip and allow you to make the most of it.

Table of Contents

1. Neither Europe nor Asia

The age old question with countries like Georgia is people asking is Georgia in Europe or Asia? People, admittedly myself included, like trying to put the countries of the world in seven neat little boxes based on continents. The thing is, that really doesn’t work here.

Georgia is part of the Caucasus region, a space between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea known for the Caucasus mountains. That puts it squarely between eastern Europe and western Asia, leading many people to associate it with one or the other. Before visiting, I had assumed that Georgia would maybe similar to Turkey in some ways given that they share a border.

But no, the country of Georgia was indeed unlike any place I’ve been to in this corner of the world. It was apparent as soon as I arrived in Batumi that I was somewhere completely new to me. Yes, there were a few European elements in Georgia that made me think of the Balkans. They just were totally outnumbered by the things that were unknown to me. I love that sensation of visiting somewhere unfamiliar and can’t wait to see how it compares to Armenia and Azerbaijan.

2. Entry to Georgia

No matter which country you visit you need to be mindful of their entry requirements for foreign nationals. Thankfully Georgia is incredibly welcoming of international tourists and have one of the most generous visa free programs I’ve seen. They have a long list of countries whose nationals can visit without a visa for a year on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website . That list includes the EU, Australia and the USA among many more.

If your nationality is not listed there, you’re not totally out of luck. Travellers who are residents of certain countries or even only hold a valid visa for those countries, are able to visit Georgia for 90 days without getting a Georgian visa. That list can be found here . Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for an e-Visa or ordinary visa through the Georgian MFA .

Of course, please confirm all of this for yourself before you travel and remember that entry requirements often change over time. The information provided above is only meant to help you get started and was intended to be accurate at the time of writing.

In terms of flying to Georgia the country, you have a few choices of airport. There’s not just an airport in the capital Tbilisi, there’s also Batumi International Airport and Kutaisi International Airport. Many budget airlines provide flights to Kutaisi making it a useful option for backpackers like me.

3. Getting Around the Country

Unless you’re just planning a quick city getaway, chances are you’ll need to know how to get about Georgia. Destinations around the country are quite evenly spread out, making day trips from Tbilisi and Kutaisi a convenient approach to seeing different parts. But you also need to take into account that the landscape can often limit access and mean taking the long way around.

Getting between the cities of Georgia I took shuttle buses and trains as they were convenient and common for where I was going. The train from Batumi to Tbilisi was nice and modern, like the modern trains you’ll find in Europe.

Going from Tbilisi to Kutaisi it was an older train but still comfortable and on par with trains I’ve been on in Czech Republic or Hungary. You can search timetables and book certain tickets on the national railway site . As for the bus, I used Georgian Bus to get from Kutaisi Airport to Batumi and found that a convenient option.

Surprisingly, the one transport option I didn’t use in Georgia is the country’s most common. Like many former Soviet countries, Georgia public transport is dominated by marshrutka, shared minibuses that run specific routes. It will depend on the route, but these seem to usually be the most frequent and affordable option for getting around Georgia.

Getting Around Tbilisi

When you arrive in Tbilisi, you have the option of using public transport to get about. I only took the Tbilisi metro to get to and from the train station but found it good value. However I did have a few difficulties with their ticketing system. Because the ticket machines they have provide other services beyond metro tickets, I had a hard time navigating it and had to ask for help.

I also was led to believe the metro cards were able to be returned for their deposit, but had no luck when trying to do so. Both situations probably came down to the language barrier, but I’ve heard similar struggles from other western tourists. If you’re a tourist that has mastered the system, feel free to comment below with advice!

4. Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Seasoned travellers will know to be to careful about raising sensitive political subjects in a new country. But that can also make it hard to learn more about the issues. In Georgia, one such topic is the current status of the disputed regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Both were regions under Georgian control until the Russo-Georgian War of 2008 and now are controlled by Russian forces.

That’s just a very basic explanation of the situation from a total outsider’s perspective. I’m certainly not qualified to go any deeper on the topic, but think it’s important you’re aware there are issues related to travel there and nearby.

According to online discussion, it’s quite common for the borders with Georgia to both to be closed, meaning entering from Russia is the only option. For more information on either region, see the websites for the Abkhazia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the South Ossetia Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

5. Money and Cost of Travel

There’s good news for budget travellers heading to Georgia, as the country is an affordable place to travel. Visitors to Georgia will find their money goes further here than Europe in general, even compared to most of the Balkans. There weren’t really any exceptions to its affordability either, so you won’t need to worry about any nasty surprises.

To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, here are some examples of costs from my trip there. A private room in hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels usually cost about 60-80 GEL which is roughly 20-25€ per night. That was for last minute bookings as well and not necessarily the cheapest rooms available.

Transport and tours were particularly cheap, with an intercity train costing just 10 GEL or 3€ and group day tours costing only 50 GEL or 15€. Considering the food, transport and accommodation is decent quality, that’s unbelievable value for money.

Regarding paying for things, you’ll find that quite a few places will accept credit cards which can be handy. You still should keep some cash on you, but Georgia isn’t solely a cash economy so that makes things easier.

6. Fantastic Food and Wine

If you’ve had friends and family who have visited Georgia, then they’ve likely raved about Georgia’s food and wine. This is definitely a country where you want to try the local cuisine. I remember someone telling me that they were gifted a bottle of red wine when entering the country, which says a lot about their wine doesn’t it? The same did end up happening to me while waiting for immigration at Kutaisi.

After polishing off the small bottle it was clear that I was going to enjoy sampling Georgia’s pride and joy. You don’t have to go far in Georgia to learn about its wines and they’re incredibly affordable as well. For me, the dry, red saperavi was quickly my go-to. However, as much as enjoyed trying Georgian wine, a drink that really surprised me was Georgian lemonade. It’s just the right amount of sweetness and there are all sorts of flavours to choose from.

As for Georgia’s food, you won’t run out of dishes to try that’s for sure. Key ingredients of the cuisine are cheese, walnuts, grapes and tarragon, but there’s more variety than that might suggest. One dish all tourists to Georgia try, even the lactose-intolerant like me, is khachapuri , a boat-shaped bread dish stuffed with cheese.

Other foods include khinkali , stuffed Georgian dishes; pelamushi , a mushy dessert of grape and walnut; and churchkhela , a treat made by coating a string of walnuts in grape juice. You’re bound to experience more, but those are some to start.

7. An Unfamiliar History

As someone who enjoys learning the history of different destinations, I had to admit I knew next to nothing of Georgia’s. I knew that it was a former Soviet Republic but everything before that was a blank. In all fairness to myself, the history of Georgia isn’t something widely taught. That doesn’t make it uninteresting, just unknown.

With a visit you should find that there are engaging tidbits from every era of Georgia’s history. Whether it’s the country’s ancient past, the medieval period or the Soviet era, there’s plenty of captivating parts to Georgia’s story. For instance, did you know that the Greek legend of Jason and the Golden Fleece was set in western Georgia? Neither did I. That part of Georgia was once known as Colchis and was where Jason and his Argonauts sailed to.

Jump forward and you’ll find plenty of landmarks around Georgia from its medieval period. A lot of them are churches and monasteries, but you will find some castles in Georgia too. Ananuri Fortress may be the most impressive and easiest to visit, with quite an entertaining history to it. During the Middle Ages Georgia was at times united in a single kingdom, while other times divided up or occupied by regional powers.

Georgia’s history since first gaining independence on 26th May 1918 greatly features its relationship with neighbouring Russia. There’s a lot to say on that topic, including the fact that Josef Stalin was born in the Georgian city of Gori, but that’s a rabbit hole you fall down on your own.

8. Learning the Language

When it comes to navigating the Georgian language, you’re going to have your work cut out for you. Not only is the Georgian language unlike any European language, it uses its own unique script. During my trip there, I only managed to get my head around a few of the most basic words and never made any real headway with the writing system.

Thankfully there is some good news, which is that I got by with English without too much trouble. As with Eastern Europe, it seems to be the language learned by younger Georgians. Russian is also quite a common language for Georgians to know a bit of, so if you know some Russian it can come in handy.

As for reading things like street signs, many things in Georgia are also written in the Latin Alphabet, so you shouldn’t have much problems there either. Honestly, the language barrier really never felt too bad, especially in the places most familiar with tourists like Tbilisi and Batumi. As always, approach language trouble with good humour and patience and you’ll work it out.

A few basic phrases to help you get by include Gamarjoba which means ‘Hello’; Madloba for ‘Thank you’; Tu Sheidzleba for ‘Please’; and Ki and Ara for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’.

9. Not Just Mountains

Given that Georgia sits along the Caucasus Mountains, you might be tricked into thinking that the entire country is mountainous. Sure, a considerable part of the country is taken up by the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains covering its north and south. Then there are the famous destinations like Kazbegi which is beautiful and Mestia which I can’t wait to see next time. But don’t think that’s all the scenery you’re going to get in Georgia.

For starters the country has its coastline along the Black Sea with plenty of stone beaches to relax at. Cities like Kutaisi and Tbilisi aren’t found up in the mountains either, instead sitting along scenic rivers with low lying hills around them.

If you look at the river scenery outside the city of Gori, you’ll see a different terrain again. Wide open plains often fill the gaps between the mountains of Georgia and can be just as picturesque. Georgia isn’t completely arid either, with some gorgeous forests easily visited from Kutaisi .

Resources for Visiting Georgia

• Getting There: To find the cheapest and most convenient flights to Georgia make sure to check Kayak .
• Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, hostels and guesthouses across Georgia, plus don’t forget Airbnb.
• Tours: There are countless day trips and sightseeing tours available in Georgia.
• Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
• Managing Money: Lastly, the Wise card can be a great option for getting cash out and making purchases .

What questions do you have for visiting Georgia the country? Do you think there are other things people should know before going? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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A bottle of wine gifted to you upon arrival? That’s how I want to be welcomed to a country! I’ve heard sooo many wonderful things about the food and wine of Georgia, not to mention the pure beauty of it! This will certainly come in handy one day, I WILL visit!

How about getting a job in georgia. What is the percentage of job opportunity in georgia and how easy a foreigner can get one

Unfortunately I don’t know the answers to that Emirez. Perhaps you can find a forum about moving to or living in Georgia as they may have a better idea about that kind of thing.

Hi David!there are also offers from our travel agency to have dinner alongside watching performers for the traditional Georgian wedding dance..

Im Canadian and my beautiful husband is Georgian. We met online in July 2015 and he had to explain the fact tbat he didn’t live in the States! Never heard of Georgia before! First trip was October 2015. Been back 5 times ! My husband is so proud of his wonderful country…he took me everywhere and we celebrated many Georgian festivals and observances! Still waiting for him to get his approval to move to Canada…but im so proud to have experienced Georgia met all the beautiful people ive met there and to have a loving husband from there !

Fantastic post! Can’t wait to travel here now.

Hi David, I wanted your opinion and advise about travelling to Georgia with a 2 year old. Places that are family oriented. My partner and I have never used any guides during our travels and getting lost and discovering places on foot was the idea. With a toddler, I was wondering if I will be able to travel around Georgia and how safe is it to talk around cities.

Thank you, Bau

Hi, thank you for very detailed travel guide. Due covid some info is a bit outdated but hope life eventually will return to its normal routine. Best wishes from Georgia

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Is Georgia Safe to Visit?

In recent years, there have been a handful of countries that have emerged as exciting up-and-coming travel destinations. These are destinations that are affordable, interesting, unique, and most importantly, free from the hordes of tourists that have clogged the cultural arteries of cities like Barcelona , Amsterdam , and Venice .

One of those countries is Georgia .

Formerly part of the Soviet Union, Georgia has become a popular destination in the region for both backpackers and digital nomads alike. Tourist numbers are climbing fast, with over nine million foreigners visiting Georgia in 2019 before the pandemic. While the majority of them come from neighboring countries, it’s also a destination that is quickly becoming popular with western tourists, too.

Tbilisi , the country’s capital, sees the most visitors — and for good reason. It’s a stunning city with a picturesque Old Town that has been colorfully restored in recent years. There is also lots to see and do in and around the city, like exploring the Narikala fort ruins, seeing the Jvari Monastery on the nearby mountaintop, and visiting the many beautiful cathedrals and churches that dot the city.

Outside of Tbilisi, travelers can explore the mountains and caves of Georgia’s picturesque landscapes, and if you like wine, you’ll be happy to learn that Georgia is actually one of the oldest wine regions in the world!

Best of all, Georgia is super cheap (a huge plus in my book)!

But is Georgia safe?

While there was some danger a decade back during the Russo-Georgian War, Georgia is now a safe country to visit. Even the US Department of State rates Georgia at 1: exercise normal precautions, on their travel advisory scale . (For reference, even Western European countries that most Americans normally consider safe, like Spain and France, rank higher at 2: exercise increased caution.)

But because many people don’t know much about Georgia, I still get some messages from people asking about the safety concerns there.

So, what do you need to think about before you go to Georgia? Are there any places you shouldn’t go? In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know to have fun and stay safe in Georgia!

Table of Contents

8 Safety Tips for Georgia

Is georgia dangerous to visit, is tbilisi a safe city, is the tap water safe in georgia, are the taxis safe in georgia, is georgia safe for solo female travelers.

1. Avoid South Ossetia and Abkhazia – The regions of South Ossetia (on the Russian border, north of Tbilisi) and Abkhazia (bordering Russia and the Black Sea in the far west of Georgia) are not safe to visit. These are Russian-occupied regions of Georgia that have experienced high conflict in recent years.

There are still car bombs and other terrorist attacks reported periodically in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and there are unexploded landmines too. Even US government officials are prohibited from traveling here .

Just don’t visit the areas, and you’ll be fine. Also, don’t try to travel through them into Georgia from Russia, as doing so is illegal.

2. Stay alert – Like in any country where the locals see the tourists as being wealthier, petty theft can happen. It’s a lower risk than in many countries but it’s still important to take precautions. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or watches or flaunt large amounts of cash. Keep an eye on your bags at all times too.

The most common incidents occur in busy tourist areas or on crowded public transportation. If you can keep your guard up in these places, you’ll be fine.

3. Beware of the bar scam – There have been reports of tourists in Tbilisi being scammed by locals who invite them into a bar for food and drinks and then force them to pay a really high bill. It’s not super common but it’s something to be aware of.

For other travel scams, check out this article on the topic for more info.

4. Be wary of demonstrations or protests – It’s quite common for political demonstrations to take place in Tbilisi and sometimes other parts of Georgia, though they most commonly happen outside the parliament on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi. While the most likely problem is just an interruption to public transport you should always be aware that protests can turn violent and it’s probably safer to stay away.

5. Be careful when driving – Unfortunately, the road conditions in much of Georgia aren’t great. When combined with reckless driving from the locals, traffic accidents are common. Sometimes road markings are lacking and there is often confusion about which driver has the right of way.

When in a car, always wear a seatbelt. Additionally, avoid driving after dark. The lack of good lighting makes it even more dangerous.

If you drive here, use caution and be sure that your travel insurance covers rental cars. Use Discover Cars to find the best rental car deals.

6. Learn a few words or have a translation app ready – Georgians are usually really friendly, but not many of them speak English. If something goes wrong they are always happy to help you out, but you might need a few words of the local language or a good translation app to help you explain what you need.

The Georgian language is pretty special; it’s one of the oldest in the world and it has a unique script. If you can learn a few words before you go. There are lots of free resources online and you can download Google Translate just in case you need to translate on the go.

7. Be cautious in the mountains – Georgia’s beautiful alps make it a popular destination for skiing and mountaineering. But at the moment, it’s still hard to get up-to-date, accurate information about the weather conditions there, so you need to be cautious. If in doubt, skip the adventure for the day.

Also, although they’re improving, the safety standards for adventure sports in the mountains in Georgia are still lower than you might expect. If you’re having doubts about an activity, try using a specialist guide and check reviews for safety levels before you go.

8. Buy travel insurance – I never leave home without travel insurance . While most trips are uneventful, it’s important to be prepared just in case. Travel insurance can save you hundreds and thousands of dollars and provide critical assistance in an emergency. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

Most parts of Georgia are extremely safe to visit. However, you should definitely avoid the South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions on the border with Russia. You should also be aware that the Pankisi Gorge area (north-east of Tbilisi) has been known for terrorist training and activity in the past, although recent reports seem to suggest that it is currently safe to visit.  

The Georgian capital, Tbilisi, is generally a very safe place to visit. Be aware that the drivers can be a little erratic so you need to have your wits about you as a pedestrian. There are also some reports of petty crime against tourists like pickpocketing in the main tourist areas, so keep an eye on your belongings, but the risk is lower than in many other European cities.  

While it can be reasonably safe to drink the tap water in some parts of Georgia where it comes from freshwater sources in the mountains, there have been incidents of travelers picking up giardia during their travels. Unfortunately, this means it’s best to avoid the tap water while you’re here.

The best way to make sure your drinking water is safe is to bring a LifeStraw for your reusable water bottle. This way you’ll be able to purify the tap water so you don’t get sick and avoid using single-use plastic bottles in the process.  

Taxis are a common way to get around in Georgia and are usually quite safe. Just make sure you wear your seatbelt as drivers here can be aggressive and the rules of the road are interpreted more as suggestions than law.

Be aware that taxis here don’t have meters, so you’ll need to agree on a price in advance. Ask your hostel or hotel staff for advice about how much you should expect to pay before you catch a ride. That way, you can avoid getting overcharged (one of the most common travel scams to watch out for in Georgia). Alternatively, you can use Bolt, the local ride-hailing equivalent of Uber (which doesn’t work here).

If you’re a solo female traveler, I’d avoid taking taxis alone at night (but that’s my advice for pretty much every city).  

Given how safe Georgia is in general, it’s probably no surprise to hear that yes, Georgia is safe for solo female travelers. The usual rules apply, though: don’t walk alone at night, beware of strangers offering your drinks or food (especially in bars in Tbilisi), and never leave your drink unattended. While it’s rare, there have been incidents of drink spiking in Georgia.

In short, as long as you use the common-sense practices you use at home you should have no problems here.

Here are helpful posts on safety written by our solo female travel experts:

• How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler
• 8 Myths About Solo Female Travel Debunked
• 10 Common Questions About Solo Female Travel
• Women Shouldn’t Be Afraid To Travel Alone

So, should you visit Georgia? Yes! It might be a relatively unknown destination to travelers but that doesn’t mean it’s dangerous. Be aware of lower driving and road standards and take the usual precautions with your belongings — especially when you’re in a more crowded tourist area.

Do that, and you’ll have a fun and safe trip to this amazing and underrated country!

Book Your Trip to Georgia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Fabrika (Tbilisi)
• Bao Hostel (Kutaisi)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Georgia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Georgia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Traveling in Georgia: Why visit Georgia

Georgia is a small country right on the intersection between Europe and Asia, sandwiched between Russia in the north and Turkey in the South. It’s an ancient country tugged away in the Caucasus Mountains and home to very determined people who, despite a tough history of war and conquerings, still strongly value their unique religion, culture and centuries-old traditions!

Georgia, or Sakartvelo as the citizens call it, is becoming a very popular touristic destination. After living there for almost one year, I understand why travelers are drawn to this magnificent and wild country!

In the comprehensive travel guides below, you’ll find all the up-to-date information you need to know about traveling in Georgia: from how to prepare yourself to the best places to visit, top things to do, travel itineraries and plenty of more practical travel info!

Georgia travel Essentials

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Georgia Visa

Visa-free (365 days) or e-visa for most nationalities (30 to 90 days).

Getting There

Fly into Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi.

Travel Insurance

Find the best travel insurance for your trip to Georgia.

Getting around

Travel in Georgia by taxi, minibus, train or rent a car.

Where to stay

Find a room in a hotel, hostel or guesthouse

Georgia Tours

City tours, outdoor activities and multiple-day tours.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELing in GEORGIA

Prepare your trip to georgia.

• Georgia Travel Guide: 19 things to know before you go
• Georgia Itineraries: 3 fantastic itineraries
• Georgia Money Guide

Things to do and experience in Georgia

• 7 Best Hikes in Georgia
• Skiing in Georgia
• Hitchhiking in Georgia
• 10 Best Georgian Dishes
• Georgia, Motherland of Wine

Where to go in Georgia

• 15 best places to visit in Georgia
• 10 beautiful historical places to visit in Georgia
• Tbilisi City Guide
• The Chronicles of Georgia Travel Guide
• Batumi City Guide
• Svaneti Travel Guide
• Tusheti Travel Guide
• Vardzia Travel Guide
• Chiatura, cable car city of Georgia
• Katskhi Pillar, incredible cliff church in Georgia

Discover Georgia’s Highlights or go on a unique Georgia Trekking Adventure to Tusheti , Racha , Vardzia , Katskhi and Chiatura on one of my Georgia Adventure Tours !

Explore GEORGIA

All posts and guides about traveling in Georgia.

How to visit Tusheti National Park in 2024, Georgia’s most beautiful and remote region

Georgia Itinerary – 3 Great Travel Itineraries to see the best of Georgia (country) in 2024

The Complete Svaneti Georgia Travel Guide – 21 Things to do in the Wild Heart of the Caucasus Mountains

How to get to the Chronicles of Georgia in Tbilisi

15 Amazing and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia

The Complete Georgia Travel Guide: 19 Useful Things you should know for backpacking in Georgia in 2024

10 Beautiful Historical Places in Georgia (country)

A Guide to Georgian Tea – From Past to Present

A Guide to Skiing in Georgia (country) – Everything you need to know including the best ski resorts in Georgia

The Complete Guide to Vardzia, Georgia’s ancient Cave City and Monastery

Georgian Food – The 10 Best Dishes from the Georgian Cuisine You absolutely have to Try!

14 Top Things to Do in Tbilisi – Tbilisi Travel Guide

What we miss about Living and Traveling in Georgia

Backpacking in Georgia on a budget – How much does it cost to travel and live in Georgia (the country)?

9 months of hitchhiking in Georgia: the good, the bad and the untold stories

Georgia Trekking – 7 Off-the-Beaten-Path Trails for Hiking in Georgia (country)

Top Things to Do in Batumi, Georgia – Our Guide to a Perfect Stay

Visiting ghosts of the past in Chiatura – the Cable Car City of Georgia

The Katskhi Pillar – the Most Incredible Cliff Church in the World

Oh Georgia, sweet mother of wine!

50 Things to know before traveling to Georgia

First of all, this travel guide is about Georgia, the country ! Not Georgia, the US State 🙂

Georgia is situated in the Caucasus region, between Europe and Asia. Historically it has been a fundamental region for trade and war. This made Georgia extremely interesting and full of activities and places to see. However, there are a few things to know before traveling to Georgia, and have a great time!

This post will explore everything you need to know before traveling to Georgia . Here you’ll find travel tips about the Georgian culture, the best attractions, the food, costs, and how to travel in Georgia!

If you want to learn even more about Georgia. Look at the article “What is Georgia famous for” – written in collaboration with a fellow Georgian blogger.

Page Contents

Georgia and the Locals

#1 Georgia will soon become a tourist and backpackers hub! So, if you like quiet countries with much to offer, you should travel to Georgia now! Within a few years, it will be bustling with tourists!

#2  Is Georgia in Europe or Asia? Well, it’s debatable if Georgia is in Europe or Asia because the country is on the frontier between the continents. The border between Asia and Europe is a historical and cultural construct defined only by convention .

#3 However, historically, socially, and culturally Georgia is clearly closer to Europe than to Asia. Even in terms of appearance, generally, Georgians look like Eastern Europeans.

#4 Georgia is a very mountainous country. The Caucasus mountains distinctly mark it, and it has several peaks above 5000 meters, the highest being mount Shkhara with 5193 meters.

However, the most famous is Kazbegi (also known as Kazbek ) with “only” 5033 meters of altitude.

#5 In August 2008, there was a war between Russia and Georgia because of the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Depending on who you ask, these regions are considered independent, part of Russia or Georgia.

#6 In the last few years, Georgia has been inching closer to the West, becoming an “aspiring country” to NATO and expressing a desire to join the EU.

With the Ukranian war, this has become more prominent, but the approximation of Georgia to the West has been happening for years now.

#7 One of the most important things to know before traveling to Georgia is that very few people speak English, at least more than just a few words and phrases, even in tourism-related services like guest houses and restaurants.

Russian is still the lingua franca in the region, and many tourists are coming from Russia.

#8 There’s kind of an online legend that Georgian people are incredibly lovely to a foreigner. It’s even said that they believe a guest is a gift from God… Sorry, but we call it bullshit!

Georgians are as nice as any other people. There are amiable people, and others not so much… It really depends on who you are lucky to meet.

#9 Georgia is a conservative and religious country . Georgians are mostly Christian Orthodox, Georgian Apostolic Autocephalous Orthodox Church to be more precise. It was also one of the first countries in the world to assume Christianity back in the 4th century.

Travel to Georgia and Tourists

#10 Western tourists and backpackers in Georgia are still a minority. Most of the tourists used to be Russian , but there’s also a surprising number of middle eastern too.

#11   Traveling in Georgia is extremely safe! Even though we weren’t expecting it to be any danger, it still surprised us how safe and relaxed the country is. It’s “children playing in the streets at night” safe…

So, if nothing really weird happens, you have nothing to worry about on this.

#12 Prepare yourself to see a lot of monasteries and fortresses 🙂 And usually, they are up on a hill away from everything, so there is lots of hiking too…

#13   Vardzia is a fantastic place that needs to be included in your trip to Georgia. It’s a monastery and a citadel built inside a mountain. For a very small fee, you can explore it almost freely.

Walking through the tunnels connecting houses, monasteries, and other places in the citadel is awesome. Together with the Khertvisi fortress, it is on the tentative list of UNESCO Heritage sites.

#14 Usually, Borjomi isn’t the first place people think of when traveling to Georgia, but it deserves your attention. Borjomi is a spa town and home to the famous sparkling water of the same name.

It’s a very green place with beautiful views and great outdoor hot baths, the Sulfur Tsar Baths. We enjoyed resting, relaxing in a hot pool in the mountains, and people-watching.

#15   Kutaisi and the surrounding area are full of exciting places to visit. From the Bagrati Cathedral to the incredible Gelati Monastery, passing through the beautiful Martvili canyon and the Prometheus Caves. You will have plenty of things to do in Kutaisi .

Click here to check our complete Kutaisi Guide!

#16 Tbilisi doesn’t really feel like a capital city with 1,1M inhabitants. When you are in downtown Tbilisi, you have the feel of a “small” medieval town.

Despite this, Tbilisi has a vibrant nightlife and plenty of things to see and do. We strongly advise you to take the cable car to the Narikala fortress and enjoy the view of the city.

#17 The Georgian Military Road is one of the most beautiful roads you will ever drive! The high mountains are incredible, though we need to highlight the view of the majestic Mount Kazbegi in Stepandsminda.

Click here to check everything you need to see and do in the Georgian Military Road

#18 If you are tired of visiting monasteries and old castles, you may want to shuffle things and visit the weird Stalin Museum…

Stalin was born in Gori, Georgia, and in the museum, you can visit his birth house, his train carriage, and many documents and photos. However, you won’t understand anything if you don’t get a guide. Everything is in Georgian and Russian.

#19 Unfortunately, there’s some trash in the streets, and some people throw things to the floor. It isn’t alarming or anything near Cambodia , Laos , or Jordan , but Georgians need to take care of the problem before it worsens.

What to eat in Georgia? A small guide to Georgian Food

#20  One of the things you need to know before traveling to Georgia is that Georgian food is delicious , but a bit too salty. The bread, the cheese, and the pastries were always on the salty side! At one point, even mineral water seemed to be salty…

#21   Bread and Pastries are the base of Georgian food. Moreover, they are extraordinarily cheap and yummy! Though, be aware that your scale may not like Georgia as much as you and your wallet 🙂

#22 There are two things you can’t leave Georgia without trying (and probably repeating)! Khinkali and Khachapuri .

#23 Khinkali is a dumpling with a filling consisting of only minced meat with herbs (originally). However, you can find many alternative fillings to meat, like cheese, potato, or mushroom. It’s freaking good! Juicy, tasty, and yummy all the way!

#24 Khachapuri is the staple food of Georgia, and it’s simply a dish of cheese-filled bread. The filling contains cheese (fresh or aged, most commonly sulguni), eggs, butter, and other ingredients.

It has several variations, but the most famous ones are the Adjaran Khachapuri and the Imerulian Khachapuri.

Cheese, bread, butter… how could it be anything but amazing? Be aware that it’s very filling too 🙂

#25 Weirdly, in a country that likes pastries so much, there aren’t many famous Georgian sweets and deserts…

We looked around, and basically, the only thing we found and tried was the Churchkhela, a candle-shaped candy made of grape must, nuts, and flour. It’s kind of beautiful, isn’t it? It was good, but we were expecting it to be sweeter 🙂

#26 There many, many roadside sellers in Georgia, usually selling fruit, vegetables, honey, wine, and handicrafts. We advise you to buy from these sellers whenever it’s possible. The things are cheap, and you’ll be helping the local community directly! Fruits particularly are very good!!

#27 Food is surprisingly cheap , both in restaurants and in fast food. We usually had one fast food meal and one restaurant every day. Including snacks, water, and breakfast, we averaged less than 10 Euros per day per person! Incredible…

#28  Did you know that Georgians claim to be the creators of the wine around 6000 BC? We are both abstemious and didn’t try it, but apparently, Georgian wines are very good and important for their culture. Furthermore, it can be a great gift to bring back from vacation!

One of the most popular things in Georgia is visiting the Kakheti Wine Region. The small village of Sighnaghi is perfect for two days of wine-sipping and unwinding .

#29 In Georgia (and Armenia), a Lemonade doesn’t need to be made of Lemon! You can have a pear Lemonade or our “favorite” Tarragon Lemonade… YEAP, you read it right… Tarragon… Lemonade…

#30 Georgia is quite famous for its quality mineral water, particularly the Borjomi (carbonated) and Bakuriani (plain). In Borjomi, you can fill your bottle with it for free; however, it isn’t the same as you buy in supermarkets.

Money and Costs of traveling to Georgia

#31 What’s the official currency of Georgia? In Georgia, the official currency is the Lari (code: GEL). The exchange rate (in March 2023) is 1 Euro = 2.8 Lari, so keeping track is very easy.

#32  Georgia is an all-around inexpensive country. Probably the worst and heaviest price you will pay is the flight to Georgia, which may be expensive due to the lack of alternatives and location.

#33  Altogether, we paid 775 Euros, meaning 35 per day per person in Georgia, excluding flights! This is an extraordinary deal and one of the reasons why Georgia will become a major backpacker destination quickly.

#34   Accommodation can be really cheap ! Most of the time, prices are on par with South East Asia, however with a big difference: quality is much better! You can find much better value-for-money deals. In Thailand , you get what you pay; in Georgia, you can get much more than you are paying .

#35  Fuel is also inexpensive… We are talking about roughly half the price of most Western Europe countries… We spent 0.6 to 0.7 euros per liter, but today it’s about 1 Euro per liter. Still, pretty inexpensive, right?

#36  Outside the bigger cities, it can be challenging to find an ATM . Be prepared for that!

On the other hand , you don’t pay a fixed ATM fee, which makes your life managing your GEL much easier. You can withdraw small amounts without any issues. Note: We are talking about the ATM fee (like those you see in Thailand , Laos, Cambodia , etc.), not your banking or exchange fee!

#37 Most small places, particularly guest houses, restaurants, and very small supermarkets won’t accept cards. So having cash is still very handy! The good thing is that they never charge an extra for using a foreign card, like in South East Asia…

#38 Be aware of the service fee in restaurants. Most restaurants charge 10 to 15% service fees, added to the customer’s bill over the menu rates. These are usually (if not always) displayed in the menus.

How to travel in Georgia

#39 Be aware of the hours of your flights when booking. Flights in and out of Georgia tend to be at a very odd hour, which can be very tiring and ruin 1 or 2 days of the trip! The airport is full at 3, 4, and 5 in the morning…

#40 On the upside, there’s a barely free (0,5 Lari – less than 0,2 Euros) airport-Tbilisi-airport bus that runs 24 hour a day! We couldn’t find its schedule, but apparently, it passes every 30 minutes (roughly).

#41 Public means of transport and Marshrutka are very cheap ways of traveling; however, we think they are only a good option for urban trips. Longer trips will be very uncomfortable and even dangerous…

#42 If you want to travel around Georgia, renting a car and enjoying all the freedom and flexibility it gives you is much better. You will be able to visit more places and places that you probably wouldn’t have if you had to take taxis or Marshrutka.

#43 However, note that Georgians are horrible drivers. The only occasions we didn’t feel perfectly safe while traveling in Georgia! If you aren’t experienced in driving in these conditions, you may have a bad time. Though, also consider that if they are crazy drivers, they are crazy drivers with you inside the buses/vans.

#44 Be prepared to find many people and animals standing in the middle of the road! We are talking about cows, sheep, pigs, chickens, dogs, etc.

Tip: In rural areas, you will see something pretty cool: At the end of the day, cows return home by themselves and stand in front of the gate waiting for the owner to open it! We found it funny! 🙂

#45 Another weird thing about Georgian roads is that cars have driving wheels on the right and the left…! We asked about it, and apparently, it’s because it was cheaper to import cars with the driving wheel on the right! Despite this funny fact, they drive on the right side of the road in Georgia!

#46 Roads in Georgia were much better than we anticipated! We had read quite bad things about it, but generally, they are OK, considering that you mostly drive mountain roads. Moreover, if you come from Armenia , Georgian roads will feel like a gift from heaven!

If you are thinking of going to Georgia, consider including Armenia in your trip! Check our 50 tips on Armenia!

Other helpful Georgia travel tips

#47 There is  WI-FI everywhere . Almost every coffee shop, restaurant, and guesthouse offers it! Even some tourist attractions offer it for free! And it’s usually quite good!

Although if you need to be always online, you can buy a travel sim card at the Airport. They are inexpensive.

#48  The power sockets and plugs in Georgia are type C and F, while the standard voltage is 220v and the frequency is 50Hz. Type C is usually called the Euro plug, and the socket also works with plugs F & E. So, they are similar to or the same as in most continental Europe.

If you need to buy an adaptor, we recommend this one.

#49 Apparently, one can freely smoke everywhere, even in closed spaces like restaurants. It is uncomfortable for non-smokers…

#50 Finally, be prepared to find some begging in the streets , particularly in Tbilisi. In most prominent streets, you will find old people asking (politely, not pushing) for money. It was very difficult to see and broke our hearts, mainly when it was elderly people.

All in all, we love to travel to Georgia ! It has everything we like when traveling: stunning scenery, tasty food, fun activities, exciting history, and low prices! Again, you should visit Georgia ASAP because soon it will be full of tourists!

Planning to visit the Caucasus and don’t know if you should visit Armenia or Georgia? Have a look at our comparison!

Georgia Travel Guides

Georgia (Bradt Travel Guide) –  This is our favorite Georgia travel guide if you are only going to travel to Georgia!

Lonely Planet Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan (Travel Guide) – is the best option if you plan to travel to Georgia and other countries in the Caucasus!

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South Ossetia and Abkhazia

For security reasons, FCDO advises against all travel to the breakaway regions of:

• South Ossetia

FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to:

• areas immediately next to the administrative boundary lines with South Ossetia
• areas immediately next to the administrative boundary lines with Abkhazia

FCDO cannot provide emergency services to British nationals travelling in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, as British government employees are restricted from travelling there.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

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University of Georgia

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No. 18 Georgia Travels To Kennesaw State Tuesday

April 29, 2024 | Baseball

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The Picture Show

Middle east crisis — explained, photos: take a look at campus protests around the country.

Michael Minasi

Tyrone Turner

Beth LaBerge

Matt Pearson

Ryan Caron King

Kevin J. Beaty

Martin do Nascimento

Students take part in a pro-Palestinian walkout and protest on April 24, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT hide caption

Students take part in a pro-Palestinian walkout and protest on April 24, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have taken root at dozens of U.S. college campuses.

Some have stayed peaceful. Some turned chaotic and have included student arrests.

Photojournalists at NPR member stations have been documenting the protests around the country this week.

Take a look:

UC Berkeley Student Yahya Ahmed prays at the UC Berkeley Gaza Solidarity Encampment in front of Sproul Hall on Apr. 23, 2024. Martin do Nascimento/KQED hide caption

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators march through the Stanford University campus in Stanford, Calif., on April 25, 2024, calling for the university to divest from Israel. The rally took place during Stanford's Admit Weekend, a time for incoming students to tour the university. Beth LaBerge/KQED hide caption

UC Berkeley students gather at the UC Berkeley Gaza Solidarity Encampment in front of Sproul Hall on Apr. 23, 2024. Martin do Nascimento/KQED hide caption

A pro-Israel counter-protester waves an Israel flag during a pro-Palestinian march through the Stanford University campus in Stanford, Calif., on April 25, 2024, calling for the university to divest from Israel. The rally took place during Stanford's Admit Weekend, a time for incoming students to tour the university. Beth LaBerge/KQED hide caption

Law enforcement form a barrier while arresting students taking part in a pro-Palestinian walkout and protest on April 24, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT hide caption

A protestor holds a sign reading 'Jews For A Free Palestine' during a pro-Palestinian walkout and protest on April 25, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT hide caption

Law enforcement arrest students taking part in a pro-Palestinian walkout and protest on April 24, 2024, at the University of Texas at Austin. Michael Minasi/KUT hide caption

Arrests are made as Atlanta Police Department and Georgia State Partrol order Pro-Palestinian and "Cop City" protesters to disperse from the quad on Emory University campus on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Matthew Pearson/WABE hide caption

An Atlanta Police officer fires pepper pellets onto the ground as Atlanta Police Department and Georgia State Patrol order Pro-Palestinian and "Cop City" protesters to disperse from the quad on Emory University campus on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Matthew Pearson/WABE hide caption

An encampment set up by pro-Palestinian and 'Cop City' protesters on Emory University's campus on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Matthew Pearson/WABE hide caption

A protester talks on the phone after being exposed to pepper spray and tear gas on the campus of Emory University on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Matthew Pearson/WABE hide caption

Washington, D.C.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupy the University Yard of The George Washington University in downtown Washington, D.C. on Thursday. A person with an Israeli flag argued with the group of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators and had to be escorted away and into a university building by GWU police. Tyrone Turner/WAMU hide caption

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupy the University Yard of The George Washington University in downtown Washington, D.C. on Thursday. Tyrone Turner/WAMU hide caption

Demonstrators pause for evening prayer during student-led protests and occupation of University Yard of The George Washington University in downtown Washington, D.C. on Thursday. Tyrone Turner/WAMU hide caption

Connecticut

A University of Connecticut student is arrested during a rally on campus calling for the university to divest from companies they say are playing a role in the Israel-Hamas war. More than 150 people attended the event April 25, 2024. Mark Mirko/Connecticut Public hide caption

A University of Connecticut student is arrested during a rally on campus calling for the university to divest from companies they say are playing a role in the Israel-Hamas war. More than 150 people attended the event April 25, 2024.

As the sun sets, Muslim protestors pray during a rally on campus at the University of Connecticut calling for the university to divest from companies they say are playing a role in the Israel-Hamas war. One person was arrested as several hundred people attended the event April 25, 2024. Mark Mirko/Connecticut Public hide caption

Yale students stage a protest in an intersection in downtown New Haven on April 22, 2024 after police cleared an encampment outside the Beinecke library, where Pro-Palestinian demonstrators had staged tents for three nights calling for the school to divest its endowment from weapon manufacturers they say play a role in Israel's war in Gaza. Ryan Caron King/Connecticut Public Radio hide caption

New Haven activist Norm Clement walks with a Palestinian flag in front of hundreds of Yale students, who shut down an intersection in downtown New Haven on April 22, 2024 after police cleared an encampment and arrested 45 students outside the Beinecke library. Ryan Caron King/Connecticut Public Radio hide caption

Auraria Police arrest protesters advocating for the end of Israel's offensive in Gaza after they occupied the Tivoli Quad and refused to leave on April 26, 2024. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

Yelling protesters seen in the reflection of a Denver Police officer assisting in the arrests of protesters advocating for the end of Israel's offensive in Gaza, by occupying the Auraria Campus' Tivoli Quad on April 26, 2024. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

Denver law enforcement removed and arrested protesters on April 26, 2024 on the Auraria Campus. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

Men pray while police arrest protesters nearby. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

Officers surrounded the camp on the Tivoli Quad and began attempting to remove the two dozen or so people who refused to clear out at the Auraria Campus. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

• demonstrations
• campus protests
• pro palestinian

Time in Tbilisi: April 30, 2024 11:18

Georgian citizens to enjoy visa-free travel to China starting next month

Zhou Qian, the Chinese Ambassador, has officially handed over a note on completion of legal procedures for the agreement, signed earlier this month, to Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia. Photo: MFA of Georgia

Georgian citizens will be able to travel to China without a visa and stay in the country for 30 consecutive days starting May 28, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia said on Monday.

The body added Zhou Qian, the Chinese Ambassador, had officially handed over a note on completion of legal procedures for the agreement, signed earlier this month, to Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

China has completed the necessary legal procedures to implement visa-free travel for people holding Chinese and Georgian passports. This agreement was signed by Ilia Darchiashvili [the Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs] and me on April 10”, Qian said.

The coordination between our countries highlights our strategic partnership and equal treatment of one another. Our partnership is characterised by a pragmatic and efficient approach”, the diplomat added.

The Ambassador also made comments on infrastructure projects in Georgia with Chinese financing or participation, highlighting the completion of the Kvesheti-Kobi Tunnel of North-South Corridor. 

Qian also said the opening of the Zestaponi Bypass Road , a part of Georgia’s international East-West Highway, demonstrated China's “practical approach” to the development of the Middle Corridor - a logistics route connecting Central Asia and China to Europe via the South Caucasus.

He also noted Georgian Airways had launched direct cargo flights from capital Tbilisi to the city of Chengdu in China this month, with direct passenger flights “to follow soon”.

The Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the meeting between the Ambassador and the Deputy Minister earlier today emphasised the importance of “fully using the new opportunities” that were created as a result of the “strategic partnership” established between the two countries last year. 

The body added the visa-free travel would contribute to the rapprochement of two “friendly nations and peoples”, the further development of “mutually beneficial cooperation”, the deepening of people-to-people contacts and ties in tourism, culture and economy.

Georgia announced visa-free travel for Chinese citizens in September 2023.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Monday announced visa-free travel to the country for Chinese citizens, citing attracting visitors and mutual economic investments among “main interests” behind the decision.

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Monday highlighted the task of “using all opportunities” to strengthen the country’s economy, following the Government’s decision to establish visa-free travel to the country for Chinese citizens.

Levan Davitashvili , the Georgian Economy Minister, on Monday said the Chinese citizens would be able to stay in the country for 30 days without a visa requirement, following Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili’s announcement earlier during the day about the Government’s intention to introduce visa-free travel with the country. 

Georgian Economy Minister Levan Davitashvili on Monday said a session of the intergovernmental trade and economic commission between China and Georgia had discussed topics including removal of visa requirements for Georgian citizens.

• International

April 25, 2024 - US university protests

By Elise Hammond, Chandelis Duster, Kathleen Magramo, Elizabeth Wolfe, Aya Elamroussi, Lauren Mascarenhas and Tori B. Powell, CNN

Our live coverage of the pro-Palestinian protests on US campuses has moved here .

Progress in negotiations between Columbia protesters and administrators, university says

From CNN’s Paradise Afshar

Negotiations between Columbia University administrators and pro-Palestinian protesters who've been occupying a campus lawn with a sprawling encampment "have shown progress and are continuing as planned," the school said in a statement late Thursday.

"For several days, a small group of faculty, administrators, and University Senators have been in dialogue with student organizers to discuss the basis for dismantling the encampment, dispersing, and following University policies going forward," the university said.

"We have our demands; they have theirs."

The university also denied rumors that the NYPD had been called to campus, calling them "false."

Some context: Columbia announced late Tuesday that it had given protesters a midnight deadline to agree to dismantle their encampment. But the university then said early Wednesday that it had extended the talks for another 48 hours . If no agreement is reached, the school has said it will consider "alternative options," which many protesters have interpreted to mean calling in police to clear the site.

Protests continue at campuses across the US as more arrests are announced. Here’s the latest

A wave of pro-Palestinian campus protests is rippling across the US, with hundreds of people arrested at universities throughout the country this week.

At New York's Columbia University,  the epicenter of the demonstrations,  protesting students said they won’t disperse until the school agrees to cut ties with Israeli academic institutions and disinvest its funds from entities connected to Israel, among other demands. Protesters at other campuses have similar demands .

The campus encampments spreading across the nation have brought together students from a variety of backgrounds — including Palestinians, Arabs, Jews and Muslims — to decry Israel's bombardment of Gaza .

Here are the latest developments:

Columbia University : The faculty senate is expected to vote on a resolution admonishing the school’s president, Minouche Shafik, on Friday over several of her decisions, according to The New York Times. Shafik has faced criticism for authorizing police to shut down student protests on campus.

Brown University: The university identified about 130 students who it alleges violated a school conduct code that forbids encampments on campus. Students found responsible will be disciplined depending on their behavior and other factors, including any prior conduct violations, the university said.

Emory University : 28 people were arrested , including 20 Emory community members, during a protest at the school, Vice President for Public Safety Cheryl Elliott said. Troopers deployed pepper balls “to control the unruly crowd” during the protest, Georgie State Patrol said. A group of Democratic Georgia state lawmakers condemned the “ excessive force used by Georgia State Patrol” during arrests at Emory.

Emerson College: More than 100 people were arrested and four police officers injured during an encampment clearing at the Boston liberal arts college, according to the Boston Police Department. President Jay Bernhardt said he recognized and respected "the civic activism and passion that sparked the protest" after dozens of arrests.

Indiana University : At least 33 people were detained on campus Thursday following encampment protests.

George Washington University : DC Metropolitan Police were asked to assist in relocating an “unauthorized protest encampment” on campus, university president Ellen M. Granberg said. The decision came "after multiple instructions made by GWPD to relocate to an alternative demonstration site on campus went unheeded by encampment participants," she said.

University of Southern California : The university canceled its main commencement ceremony  next month, citing "new safety measures in place.” Nearly  100 people have been arrested  on the campus.

University of California, Los Angeles : A "demonstration with encampments" formed at UCLA on Thursday.

Northeastern University: An encampment formed at Northeastern University in Boston, where dozens of protesters were seen forming a human chain around several tents. 

Other campuses: Since last Thursday, several campuses have been protest sites, including the  Massachusetts Institute of Technology , University of Texas at Austin, University of Michigan,  University of New Mexico , University of California, Berkeley, Yale University , and Harvard University.

Protesters at the University of Texas at Austin asked to disperse at 10 p.m.

Protesters at the University of Texas at Austin were asked to leave the campus's South Mall at 10 p.m. local time, university spokesperson Brian Davis told CNN.

No arrests have been made as of 10 p.m., Davis said.

"There is no curfew on campus. Leadership asked that students clear the South Mall at 10 p.m."

Just last night, more than 30 demonstrators were arrested after UT Austin police issued a dispersal at the school.

Protesters at Ohio State University arrested after refusing to disperse, university says

From CNN’s Joe Sutton and Jamiel Lynch

Demonstrators at Ohio State University were arrested on Thursday night after refusing to disperse, according to university spokesperson Benjamin Johnson.

Johnson did not know how many arrests were made.

“Well established university rules prohibit camping and overnight events. Demonstrators exercised their first amendment rights for several hours and were then instructed to disperse. Individuals who refused to leave after multiple warnings were arrested and charged with criminal trespass,” he said.

Columbia University senate is redrafting resolution to admonish school's president, New York Times reports

From CNN's Rob Frehse

Columbia University’s faculty senate is expected to vote Friday on a resolution admonishing embattled school president Minouche Shafik over several of her recent decisions, including calling in police to clear a student encampment last week, the New York Times reports .

The resolution would allow the school senate to avoid a censure vote during a critical time for the school, the Times reports, citing several unnamed senators who attended a closed-door meeting Wednesday. Some feared a censure vote would be perceived as giving in to Republican lawmakers, according to the paper.

A Columbia University spokesperson confirmed Shafik’s closed-door meeting with the senate on Wednesday but would not comment on the resolution to CNN.

 “The President met with the Senate plenary in a closed-door session for close to an hour, giving remarks and taking questions. She reiterated the shared goal of restoring calm to campus so everyone can pursue their educational activities.” 

Some context: Shafik has faced immense criticism from some students, faculty and Democratic lawmakers for her decision to authorize police to break up pro-Palestinian student protests last week— a move that resulted in more than 100 arrests .

Other students, Jewish advocacy groups and Republican lawmakers are slamming Shafik for not cracking down on protests — which they say have included antisemitic rhetoric — both on campus and outside its gates.

Several Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have called for Shafik to resign.

CNN’s Maria Sole Campinoti contributed to this report.

What to know about the protests erupting on college campuses across the US

From CNN's Jordan Valinsky

Colleges across the country have erupted with pro-Palestinian protests, and school administrators are trying — and largely failing — to defuse the situation.

Several schools have called the police on protesters, leading to the arrests of hundreds across US campuses.

The recent surge in protests have inflamed tensions among students, forcing leadership to decide when free speech on campus crosses a line. The atmosphere was so charged that officials at Columbia – the epicenter of the protests that began last week – announced students can attend classes virtually starting Monday.

Passover, a major Jewish holiday, began this week, heightening fears among a number of Jewish students who have reported hearing antisemitic comments at some of the protests. The anxiety comes as reports of  antisemitic acts have surged  across America since October 7.

When did the protests start?

The situation  escalated last week  at Columbia University, where encampments were organized by  Columbia University Apartheid Divest , a student-led coalition of more than 100 organizations, including Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace, to protest what they describe as the university’s “continued financial investment in corporations that profit from Israeli apartheid, genocide, and military occupation of Palestine,” according to its news release.

What are they asking for?

Columbia protesters say they won’t disperse until the school commits to a “complete divestment” of its funds from entities connected to Israel.

Other protesters are similarly calling on their campuses to divest from companies that sell weapons, construction equipment, technology services and other items to Israel.

Where else are protests happening?

Since last Thursday, a slew of campuses have had protests and encampments, as well as arrests. That includes the  Massachusetts Institute of Technology , University of Texas at Austin, University of Michigan, University of New Mexico and University of California, Berkeley.

Police   arrested nearly 100 protesters at the University of Southern California Wednesday after a dispersal order.

At Emerson College, more than 100 people were arrested Wednesday during a pro-Palestinian protest, according to the Boston Police Department.

Yale University police  arrested at least 45 protesters Monday  on suspicion of criminal trespassing, though dozens remained Tuesday.

Harvard University officials suspended a pro-Palestinian student organization for allegedly violating school policies.

Read more  here .

Brown University says about 130 students violated school policy banning encampments

From CNN’s Isabel Rosales and Devon Sayers

Brown University has identified about 130 students who it alleges violated a school conduct code that forbids encampments on campus, a university spokesperson said.

The university's Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards has notified the students, who were identified through ID checks, spokesperson Brian Clark said in a release.

An encampment of about 90 people had formed on the school's Providence, Rhode Island campus Wednesday morning, according to Brown.

"Encampment on Brown University’s historic and residential greens is a violation of University policy, and participants in the encampment have been verbally informed of this fact and that they will face conduct proceedings,” the school's release said.

Students found responsible will be disciplined depending on their behavior and other factors, including any prior conduct violations, the university said, noting students could face probation or separation from the school.

“The University continues to ask individuals in or in immediate proximity to the encampment to present their Brown IDs for two reasons: to verify association with Brown for safety and security reasons, and to appropriately address potential violations of policy."

Protesters at Emory University briefly clash with police

From CNN's Elizabeth Wolfe

Protesters briefly clashed with police at Emory University in Georgia on Thursday, the university told CNN.

A confrontation between protesters and police outside the school's Candler School of Theology prompted an "increased law enforcement presence" on campus, according to the university.

"A group of about 100 people left the Quad and marched to the Candler School of Theology, where some protesters pinned police officers against building doors and attempted to access the building," the university said.

"The crowd ultimately returned to the Quad before dispersing."

Video from CNN affiliate WSB shows some protesters using large posters to push into a line of police officers whose backs are against the doors of the building. As officers push back against the posters, one demonstrator chucks their sign at the row of officers.

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Georgia State Trooper Runs Out Of Patience, Carries Protestor Off Like A Child When They Drop To The Ground

Remember when your parents used to say, “If you act like a child I’m going to treat you like one?” Yeah, this is basically that.

Demonstrations are popping up on college campuses across the country, most notably at Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Columbia but also at schools like Texas and Arizona State, as pro-Palestine groups set up shop and colleges and police struggle to figure out how to deal with them.

Well, some of them struggle, but not the Georgia State Police.

Video from a protest at Emory University shows a Georgia state trooper chasing down a protestor and delivering an absolutely textbook tackle of the anti-Israel demonstrator.

PROTESTER TACKLED BY TROOPER: Video captured at the Pro-Palestine protest at Emory in Atlanta shows the moment a protester is tackled by a Georgia State Patrol trooper. This was one of the first takedowns of many, several protesters were arrested today on the campus. @FOX5Atlanta pic.twitter.com/N96Ny9yqSr — Billy Heath III (@BillyHeathFOX5) April 25, 2024

Did this guy play for the Bulldogs? If not it seems like they missed a recruit in their own backyard. The speed, the way he left his feet and wrapped up to make the takedown…guy could have had a career on the gridiron.

But it seems the protestor still wasn’t ready to go peacefully, because a subsequent video shows the trooper leading them away as the protestor screams and drops to the ground.

It seems the trooper ran out of patience though, because as the protestor flops on the ground and whines like a child, the officer decides to treat them like one and pick them up like a parent who’s had enough of their kid’s tantrum in the toy aisle of Target.

This GA state trooper ran out of patience and took matters into his own hands. pic.twitter.com/rhTbviZ8g6 — Sam (@itsjustmesammyf) April 26, 2024

That’s how you do it.

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