why visit georgia usa

• Why Georgia
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Why You Should Visit Georgia

• Cultural Monuments
• Arts & Culture
• Food and Wine
• Natural Wonders

Georgia is perhaps better known for a variety of other things in addition to its singing. Magical dancers dwell here, puppets put on shows depicting a rich legendarium, ancient ruins are here to be explored, and the nation’s natural beauty is beyond compare. Towering mountains, pastoral valleys, icebergs, sunny beaches, primordial forest, sun-bleached canyons, and quaint mountain villages all combine to make landscapes the likes of which would fit right into the stuff of fantasy.

Georgia’s rich wine history, which dates back 8,000 years, gives the nation the title of the birthplace of wine . The Georgian traditional technique of making wine in Qvevri (wine-making clay vessel), has now spread to other countries as well. The Qvevri, a Georgian invention, and 525 endemic grape varieties ensure that Georgian wine is like nothing else in the world.

Couple this with Georgia’s exquisite cuisine, which includes sixty different varieties of Georgian cheese , delectable dishes made with walnuts and vegetables, hearty dishes of meat and bread, and unique desserts, and you’ve got a recipe for a marvelous trip. In short, Georgia is a country with something for absolutely everybody. From lovers of art and music to foodies to wine connoisseurs to adventure travelers to photographers to hikers and skiers… Georgia has you covered!

Where is Georgia?

Georgia is in the Caucasus, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, on the shores of the Black Sea . It is a small country but has served as a connector of cultures for centuries as a part of the Silk Road, the world’s largest commercial artery.  

What is the Weather Like in Georgia?

Georgia has a unique climate since it contains almost all the climate zones existing on Earth, from humid subtropical regions to glaciers and permanent snow. That is why you can enjoy yourself in Georgia with any setting or scenery you wish at any time of the year.

You will soon be convinced of this fact if you visit any of Georgia’s protected regions, of which there are 6,000 scattered across 490 hectares in total. Don’t forget about the resorts and revitalizing mineral waters, which are also an integral part of the climate.

What makes Georgian History, Culture, and People Special?

Have you heard about Zezva and Mzia ? About the first Europeans, who were discovered in Georgia in 2001? That was how we found out that people roamed these lands some 1,800,000 years ago.

By the end of the 2nd millennium BC there were already several fledgling nation-states here, but the most peaceful and successful period in the country’s history, its Golden Age, is connected with the rule of the glorious Queen Tamar.

Georgia was one of the first countries to officially convert to Christianity, and of the fourteen writing systems in the world, one of them is the Georgian alphabet . The famous poem The Knight in the Panther’s Skin was written in this language, which was inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 2013 along with other Georgian writing.

Every region of Georgia is distinguished by its own architectural style. You won’t find modern architecture and cultural objects only in museums and exhibition halls here, but also in the streets and in art cafés.

Georgia’s musical folklore is quite varied as well. Gurian Krimanchuli (a convoluted and high-pitched song) gives way to the dignified Svan Lile, while Imeretian Kalakuri blends into the Kakhetian Mravaljamieri and so many more. Georgian dance is also diverse, and, of course, so are the traditions of hospitality, which remain in the memories of every traveler long after they’ve returned home.

What Does a Georgian Supra Mean?

While in Georgia, you absolutely must take part in a traditional Georgian supra . This is far more than just a delicious feast - it is a fascinating cultural tradition.

A tamada leads a supra. The Tamada is a person who gives toasts during the feast, controlling the flow of the evening with their speeches and the pace their drinking sets. After the tamada, the other participants in the supra give their own toasts. The tamada and the other participants tell interesting stories, read poems, sing, dance, and speak to each other with only love and warmth. Don’t be surprised if you see complete strangers with their arms entwined like old friends at a Georgian supra. That’s just the Georgian way – full of love.

As for the food you will see at a Georgian supra, it is just as diverse. There is a huge variety of cheese bread - khachapuri, a local take on dumplings - khinkali, polenta with elastic cheese - Elarji, tender lamb stew with herbs and sour plums - Chakapuli, bean stew - Lobio, veggie and walnut patties - Pkhali, magical chicken soup - Chikhirtma, crescent-shaped Shoti bread, grape juice based energy bar - churchkhela, and an 8,000-year-old wine tradition. It is impossible to make a full list since every region of Georgia presents you with its own unique tastes. In Kakheti or Mtiuleti you may encounter a variety of meat dishes, while in the west you might be hosted with vegetable and dairy dishes, meaning that any kind of dietary preference, whether vegan, vegetarian, or religious, will certainly be able to find something interesting for the palate.

Perhaps by now you’ve already reached the point where you no longer need to read why you should pack your bags and hurry off to Georgia, where an unforgettable adventure awaits.

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Best places to visit in georgia.

With big cities, iconic small towns, picturesque mountains and a prime spot along the Atlantic Ocean, Georgia is one of the most diverse vacation destinations in the South. To help you decide which Georgia locales are most worth your time and vacation dollars, U.S. News took into account the variety and uniqueness of attractions, availability of accommodations and opinions of everyday travelers to decide the best places to visit in Georgia. Vote for your favorite places below to help determine next year's list.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Jekyll island, callaway gardens, amicalola falls state park, st. simons island, cumberland island national seashore, tybee island, marietta, ga, columbus, ga, arabia mountain national heritage area.

The charm of Savannah is undeniable. From the early 1800's architecture to the romantic Spanish moss-lined streets to the shops, eateries and party-hard reputation of River Street, Savannah gives a nod to the past while bringing its own personality into the present. Plus, the city offers a heavy dose of laid-back Southern hospitality to match, earning it its Hostess City of the South nickname. Spend your time meandering through Forsyth Park and Savannah's 22 squares, filling up on Lowcountry cuisine or spooking yourself on a ghost tour .

If you want to feel like you're in Europe without leaving the U.S., consider taking a trip to Helen . This small North Georgia town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is modeled after a Bavarian Alpine village, so you can expect to find lots of colorful architecture, authentic German fare and fun renditions of German festivals, including an annual Oktoberfest celebration. But beyond its charming atmosphere, Helen offers all kinds of amenities, including more than 200 stores and access to local wineries, plus proximity to Unicoi State Park & Lodge's lake and hiking and bike trails.

For a look at jaw-dropping natural wonders, venture to Tallulah Gorge State Park. Located just west of the Georgia-South Carolina border in the northern part of the state, the park is home to Tallulah Gorge, which measures 2 miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Visitors can get a bird's-eye view of the gorge from its rim or obtain a free permit to see it from its floor. Tallulah Gorge State Park also features a suspension bridge that provides fantastic views of the park's five waterfalls, plus more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The southernmost of the Golden Isles, Jekyll Island beckons to travelers seeking a quiet beach getaway. The entire island is designated as a Georgia state park, meaning conservation and wildlife preservation are top priorities. Visitors can see sea turtles, alligators and other coastal animals at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, lounge on 10 miles of pristine beaches (Driftwood Beach is one of the most photogenic in Georgia) or meander through the historic district (also known as Millionaires' Village) to see homes that have belonged to some of America's richest families, including the Vanderbilts, the Rockefellers and the Pulitzers.

A trip to Callaway Gardens is all about reconnecting with nature. Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the small town of Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens features 2,500 acres of gardens, a butterfly center with 1,000-plus butterflies and more than 10 miles of bike and nature trails, among other amenities. Additionally, visitors can head to Robin Lake Beach to swim, pedal boat, paddleboard or simply soak up some sun during the warmer months. Families can also take advantage of the beach's inflatable water playground called Aqua Island.

The Empire City of the South is a hub for business (Coca-Cola, CNN and Delta Air Lines are all headquartered here) and music (rappers have long made Georgia's capital city their home), as well as a family-friendly destination with world-renowned sights like the Georgia Aquarium and Lego Discovery Center Atlanta. Atlanta also houses several impressive historical attractions, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. What's more, the city is solidly on the foodie map thanks to the combination of cultures and traditions represented in its restaurant offerings.

Amicalola Falls State Park gets its name from the Cherokee word for "tumbling waters," so you can expect to see an impressive waterfall during your visit. The North Georgia park's namesake measures 729 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park offers hiking trails to the base and rim of the falls, as well as the 8-mile Approach Trail, which connects to the southernmost point of the Appalachian Trail. If you're traveling with kids, consider staying at the on-site lodge, which offers activities like archery, animal encounters and guided hikes.

With its sandy beaches and laid-back lifestyle, the Golden Isles' largest island invites travelers to slow down and relax. Visitors can head to East Beach to enjoy activities like shelling and fishing or make their way to one of the island's golf courses to practice their swing. Plus, St. Simons offers more than 20 miles of bike paths, many of which lead to can't-miss attractions like the World War II Home Front Museum. While exploring, keep an eye out for tree spirits: These faces were carved into the island's oak trees in the '80s by American artist Keith Jennings.

The largest and southernmost of Georgia's barrier islands, Cumberland Island National Seashore offers both a rich history and a beautiful landscape. You'll have to catch a ferry from nearby St. Marys to get here, but the journey is well worth the effort. When you arrive, you'll discover nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness and 17-plus miles of secluded beaches. Cumberland Island National Seashore also features multiple historical sites, such as the Plum Orchard Mansion, the First African Baptist Church and the Dungeness Ruins, that tell the story of the Carnegie family, enslaved African Americans, Native Americans and others who once lived on the island.

Situated less than 20 miles southeast of Savannah, this small barrier island has been a popular family vacation destination for more than a century. Tybee Island's miles of sandy beaches and relatively warm weather most of the year make it a prime spot for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. Additionally, travelers can spend a few hours looking for the island's 200-plus bird species. Other Tybee must-dos include climbing up the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, and participating in educational programs at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

A haven for historians, this Atlanta suburb, which sits about 20 miles northwest of the city, boasts five National Register Historic Districts and a historic town square. Must-see attractions include the William Root House, Brumby Hall (home to the Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum) and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. And no trip would be complete without catching a show at the beautifully restored Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. Beyond its historical draws, Marietta has an artsy side, with sleek galleries and a monthly art walk, as well as a burgeoning food scene, including a host of buzzworthy restaurants and the Marietta Square Market Food Hall.

Best known as the home of the University of Georgia, the country's first public institution of higher education, and as a bona fide music hub, Athens in northeast Georgia makes for a lively weekend getaway . The university campus is worth a visit, as it is home to the Georgia Museum of Natural History, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Georgia Museum of Art (not to mention some spirited football games). Meanwhile, downtown Athens is the place to go for trendy eats, sweet boutiques and live music venues like the iconic Georgia Theatre.

Georgia might not come to mind when you think of wine destinations, but Dahlonega is worth consideration. This northern town is often labeled the Heart of Georgia Wine Country and features more than a dozen wine tasting rooms, wineries and locally owned and operated vineyards. For a festive atmosphere during your vacation, arrive in May when the annual Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival takes place. Dahlonega is also where America's first gold rush occurred, so be sure to save time for a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and a former mine.

Activities in this city on the Georgia-Alabama border are centered around the Chattahoochee River. Thrill-seekers can raft down the longest urban whitewater course in the world or zip line across the river at Blue Heron Adventure Park. Meanwhile, those who enjoy more leisurely pursuits can stroll or bike along the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk, which winds past historical monuments and sites like the National Civil War Naval Museum and the experiential National Infantry Museum. Follow the path to Uptown Columbus to shop at local boutiques and bookstores, take in a show or go out for a night on the town.

Featuring more than 40,000 acres of surreal landscapes, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area offers plenty of opportunities for adventure close to Atlanta. The park captivates visitors with its monadnocks (stone outcrops), which were formed over the course of 400 million years. Spend your time hiking through the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve or walking or biking the more than 30-mile Arabia Mountain PATH. The heritage area also boasts nearly 90 geocaches for travelers to find. For those who enjoy fishing, there are numerous waterways ideal for casting a line. But remember, fishing here requires purchasing a Georgia fishing license.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Lake Lanier

Augusta, GA

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10 Reasons Why Visit Georgia Country Next?

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If you seek picturesque beauty and solace, then the Georgia country calls out to you. Even though the country is geographically located in Asia, the Georgians consider themselves as a part of Europe. Explore everything from old settlements to contemporary towns here. This is a one-stop destination for wine lovers and adventure seekers. Let’s uncover the reasons that compel us to visit Georgia country over and over again.

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Georgia Country

1. a destination for wine enthusiasts.

Georgia is the birthplace of wine and has been producing it for over 8000 years. Georgians have a unique and traditional method of making wine (in clay jars called Qvevri ). In fact, this method has been listed under the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The oenophiles must explore the unique places to visit in Georgia country.

• Chateau Mukhrani: Sprawling vineyards, gorgeous castles, and wine cellars await you here.
• Chateau Mere : It is one of the most popular winemaking regions. Taste the mouth-watering Winiveria wines, widely accessible in the local shops.
• Chateau Schuchmann: Relax in the wine spa with a view of the snow-covered Caucasus Mountains and vineyards to walk around.

2. Must-Visit for Landscape Admirers

If you love the Mountains, then you would love Georgia too. Visit these uniquely mesmerizing places in Georgia to see and feel it yourself.

Blue Ridge Mountains: Tucked away in the Chattahoochee National Forest, this place is a must-see in Georgia, Europe as it offers excellent scenic views.

Sky Valley: Hiking is the famous activity of this place. Visitors are gifted with mind-blowing picturesque views.

Clayton: The town is covered with mountains all around. Rivers flow between them which provides an excellent opportunity for white water rafting.

3. Appreciate the Old & Gold!

If you are particularly fond of visiting the classic times, then encounter nostalgia in the old towns of Georgia.

Tbilisi : This cobblestoned Old town reflects a long history. The city is built alongside mellow streams. Admire the historical architecture, folk art, and heritage sites.

Mtskheta : The most famous town in Georgia founded 3000 years ago. Visit the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral here. It is a popular UNESCO World Heritage site.

Telavi : A fascinating place for architecture and design lovers. Among its most famous attractions are the old fortress walls and a 900-year-old sycamore tree.

4. An Abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Who would not want to explore those sites that have been duly recognized by UNESCO? Apparently, the Georgia country is full of those. Top sites include:

Gelati Monastery: Built in 1106, this monastery reminds us of the ‘Golden Age of Georgia’ and is one of the most beautiful places in Georgia country. Branded by the beautiful frescoes and paintings for striking interior design.

Historical Monuments of Mtskheta: The notable churches are terrific examples of medieval religious architecture in the Caucasus. Exhibits the high cultural rank achieved by this ancient kingdom.

Upper Svaneti: One of top Georgia country points of interest is the Upper Svaneti. Witness the unique tower houses of medieval times. The eminence is indubitable!

5. Breathe Fresh & Live Fresh in Georgia

Georgia’s climate is ecologically diverse and healthy. The environment here is always colorful and beautiful.

Tbilisi, Georgia, Europe : Winter is the best time to visit with your family as Christmas in Georgia at Tbilisi is snowy and magical. The glittering view at night is mesmerizing with sparkling lights all around.

Batumi : Do not like winters? Enjoy the sunny and pleasant weather and serenity of Georgia during the summer season from May until September, particularly in Batumi.

6. Experience Grandeur Life Blended in Simplicity

If you have a thing for luxury blended with simplicity, then Georgia does not disappoint. The luxury hotels in Georgia offer a touch of chicness and pamper you like you are ‘the king or the queen of the world’. In addition, the lavish food and authentic cuisines served here are bound to make your taste buds go crazy. The fine wine served here is marvellous and unique. There are family-friendly resorts which make sure that you spend the best time of your life with your family. In fact, the best resort of Georgia in Europe often offers a magnificent view of the Caucasus hills from your room.

7. Make Merry with the Locals!

The people of Georgia Europe are quite friendly, fun-loving, and hospitable. As a traveller, this is one of the core reasons to visit Georgia. Get invited to a local’s place in Georgia and get amazed by their warm hospitality. The host serves homemade wine as a welcome drink. Not just that! If you love organic stuff, then get a fine taste of locally- sourced and home-prepared organic food here.

8. Captivating and Inspiring!

Get ready to be awed by the Georgian architecture at Europe square in Tbilisi, which is also one of the top things to do in Georgia country. Witness amazing architectural excellence here. Of the most famous places to see in Georgia at Tbilisi is the ancient Narikala fortress. Visit Georgia to feel peace wash away all over your body and soul.

9. Alleviate your senses at the Town Spas

Relax your body after the long hard day of exploration at a spa in Georgia. Amaze yourself with the top-notch services, comforting sessions and release your fatigue. Try something unique like an oil and mud spa. If you are feeling particularly tired then go for the wine spa. The most interesting of all is the Wine spa, a signature Georgian spa during which a wine bath is given.

10. A place for Thrill Seekers!

In recent years, Georgia has become a hub for adventure seekers. If you are one too, then visit Georgia to explore its wild side. Try Paragliding, the most practiced adventurous activity amongst the tourists. Hiking, mount tenting, and white water rafting are the next ones. The quaint, the picturesque, and the adventurous facets of Georgia thrill you.

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Georgia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Georgia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Is Georgia on your mind? Then this is your sign to start planning a trip to the Peach State!

There’s so much to see in this southern state, so we’ve put together a guide with all the Georgia visitor information you could need. From historic sites to vibrant cities to beaches to breathtaking mountain views, Georgia has a little something for everyone.

The state of Georgia is separated into several different regions, each with its own unique personality.

Up north, you’ll find Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, a gorgeous area offering tons of great opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other fun outdoor activities. Honestly, it’s home to some of the best trails in the world !

At the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, you can explore the gorgeous river valley via raft, canoe, or kayak even if you’re a beginner paddler.

Northern Georgia is also home to Atlanta, one of the most populous cities in the United States and a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about U.S. history. From Oakland Cemetery to Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Park, the city and surrounding area are full of historic sites that shed some light on the state’s storied past.

Central Georgia offers plenty of southern charm as well as lots of opportunities to get outside.

The Presidential Pathways region in western Georgia is home to five gorgeous Georgia state parks, including the popular Stone Mountain Park.

The region was also a favorite of two U.S. presidents. President Jimmy Carter grew up in the town of Plains, GA (now home to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site) and Franklin D. Roosevelt even built his “Little White House” in Warm Springs.

Once you take a dip in the lake at Pine Mountain, you’ll definitely see why these great men loved the area so much.

To the east you’ll find the Classic South region, a charming area on the Atlantic coast. Take a swim in gorgeous Lake Oconee or visit Augusta National Golf Club, home of the famous Masters Tournament.

Looking to explore Georgia even further?

Head down to the southern part of the state for gorgeous beaches, cute small towns, and more.

In Scenic Southwest Georgia, you’ll find plenty of quaint southern towns, lush vineyards, and lakeside retreats to explore.

To the east, you’ll find Coastal Georgia, a region known for its gorgeous beaches and islands.

The waterfront city of Savannah is a favorite of many travelers for its old-world charm, vibrant arts scene, and many delicious restaurants.

Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, once retreats for America’s elite, now offer anyone the chance to relax in style.

Additionally, the more laid-back Tybee Island is also perfect for families looking to chill out in the sand.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Georgia, a must-visit destination when traveling in America .

Note: This ultimate Georgia guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Georgia Map

Use this Georgia tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Atlanta Travel Guide

Looking for an Atlanta visitor’s guide ? These posts can help!

Eco-Friendly Atlanta: Green Places To Go, Stay & Eat

Exploring Black History In Atlanta’s Often Overlooked Sweet Auburn Neighborhood

Delicious Discoveries: Exploring Atlanta Through Sunday Brunch

Savannah Travel Guide

Looking for a Savannah visitor’s guide ? These posts can help!

22 Things To Do In Savannah For An Amazing Trip

Falling In Love In (And With) Savannah, Georgia

Is Savannah The USA’s Most European City? The To-Go Beer Says “Yes”!

Best Georgia Tours

Explore local culture with a Georgia tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise
• Savannah’s Historic & Secret East Side Walking Food Tour
• Savannah Bonaventure Cemetery Journey
• Atlanta Black History & Civil Rights Tour
• Ponce City Market Food, History and Street Art Tour in Atlanta
• Tybee Island Paddleboard Tour and Yoga
• Bartram Trail Hike + Wine Tasting Tour from Clayton

Renting A Car In Georgia

Need a rental car for your Georgia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Georgia

Getting around Georgia by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Georgia.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Georgia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Georgia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local properties:

Georgia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Georgia tour. When visiting Georgia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Georgia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Georgia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Georgia .

Q: What is the best month to visit Georgia?

The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best time to visit Georgia. The weather throughout the state is fairly mild during this time, making it the perfect time to explore.

Summers in Georgia can get excruciatingly hot and humid, particularly in areas like Savannah and Atlanta, but you’ll find cooler summer temperatures in the mountains.

Beach destinations like Tybee Island also tend to get extra crowded from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so you may want to consider a visit in late spring or early fall for a quieter, more relaxed vacation.

Q: What should I know before going to Georgia?

There are a few things to know about Georgia before you visit.

If you’re planning on dining out a lot in Georgia, be prepared for big portions. Georgians are very generous when it comes to food and you may be presented with more than your stomach can handle.

Southern food is also fairly heavy, so don’t plan a multi-mile hike after a big lunch of shrimp and grits. Once you taste one of these delicious dishes, though, you’ll absolutely get the hype.

Speaking of food and drinks, sweet tea is the default iced tea option in Georgia. If you want unsweetened iced tea, be sure to let your server know.

There’s usually no need to rent a car if you’re visiting Atlanta. The city has a robust public transportation system featuring a subway, buses, and street cars. This is also the best way to avoid the notorious Atlanta traffic and get to all your desired destinations on time.

And if all else fails, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous in this big city, so there are plenty of ways to get around.

You’ll also run into lots of classic southern accents throughout the state of Georgia. As it is anywhere else in the world, it’s extremely rude to make fun of the local accent.

Don’t imitate it and if you can’t understand what someone said, just ask them to repeat themselves. A little kindness and respect goes a long way wherever you are in the world.

Q: How much money do you need for a trip to Georgia?

Your budget for a trip to Georgia will depend on your itinerary, but the average traveler spends around $128 USD per day in Georgia on transportation, accommodations, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

You’ll tend to spend more in cities like Atlanta and Savannah and a bit less in rural destinations like the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Q: How many days do you need in Georgia?

For a full Georgia road trip, you’ll probably want to plan for at least one week away.

A seven-day trip will give you enough time to spend a few days exploring the city of Atlanta, nearby destinations like Callaway Gardens and Macon, Savannah, and the Golden Isles of St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

Q: What are the best things to do in Georgia?

You’ll find many of Georgia’s top attractions in Atlanta and the surrounding area. Atlanta is home to major museums like the High Museum of Art , the Fernback Museum of Natural History , the Center for Puppetry Arts , and the World of Coca-Cola .

The city is also a major hub of civil rights history .

At the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park , you’ll find the iconic civil rights leader’s childhood home and gravesite as well as the Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King once served as pastor.

You can also visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights , a museum dedicated to civil and human rights struggles around the world, in Downtown Atlanta.

For a more laid-back southern vibe, visit Savannah, a coastal city that blends the state’s historic charm with a vibrant art scene.

The city’s smaller size makes it perfect to explore on foot or via a classic trolley tour.

Savannah is home to plenty of historic sites including Bonaventure Cemetery (the setting for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ), the Juliette Gordon Lowe Birthplace (home of the founder of the Girl Scouts), the First African Baptist Church (the oldest Black church in America), and the Telfair Academy (the oldest public art museum in America).

One of the best things to do in Savannah is to stroll through the many parks and squares in the Historic District featuring gorgeous fountains and Spanish Moss trees. While you’re there, stop into some of the galleries displaying works from local Savannah artists.

There are also plenty of ways to enjoy active outdoor adventures throughout the state of Georgia.

The iconic Appalachian Trail runs through the northwestern part of the state and you can enjoy the Blue Ridge Mountains at Chattahoochee National Forest . The forest features tons of trails perfect for all levels of hikers and has both campgrounds and cabins available for those who want to stay the night.

Water sports fans should make a point to visit Callaway Gardens , home to Robin Lake , a major destination for waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Not ready to get out on the lake?

Stroll through the gorgeous gardens featuring hundreds of gorgeous blooms.

And of course, you can’t miss Georgia’s beaches. Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island offer picturesque views that have attracted beachgoers from across the country for decades.

Q: Where is Georgia?

Georgia is located in the Southeastern region of the United States .

It shares borders with Tennessee and North Carolina (north), South Carolina (northeast), the Atlantic Ocean (southeast), Florida (south), and Alabama (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Georgia?

Credit cards — mainly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Georgia. That being said, it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Georgia?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Georgia.

Q: What is the local currency in Georgia?

The local currency in Georgia is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Georgia travel guide?

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Georgia

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 23, 2023

Georgia is a state of many contrasts, which makes it an especially appealing place to visit. The attractions that bring tourists to Georgia range from the stunning mountain landscapes and attractive natural features of North Georgia, such as Lookout Mountain and the Okefenokee Swamp, to the romantic squares of historic Savannah and the dazzling modern architecture of Atlanta.

There are fun things to do in Georgia for the whole family, whatever your interest. You'll find everything from beautiful beaches to one of the world's largest aquariums, and gracious antebellum homes and historic sites that illuminate life and events from prehistory to the late 20th-century struggle for civil rights.

Plan your visit to the "Peach State" with this list of the top attractions in Georgia.

1. Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

2. savannah historic district, 3. atlanta botanical garden, 4. blue ridge scenic railway, 5. martin luther king jr. national historic site, atlanta, 6. explore rock city on lookout mountain, 7. augusta canal discovery center, 8. hike through chattahoochee national forest, 9. world of coca-cola, atlanta, 10. center for civil and human rights, atlanta, 11. the national infantry museum & soldier center, columbus, 12. callaway gardens, pine mountain, 13. stone mountain park, 14. chattahoochee riverwalk, columbus, 15. the university of georgia, athens, 16. okefenokee swamp, 17. swim and play on tybee island.

The world's fourth largest aquarium , Georgia Aquarium houses more than 100,000 aquatic animals in more than 10 million gallons of fresh and saltwater. While its sheer size may seem overwhelming, the exhibits are divided into various themes to make visits more focused and educational.

And it really is a big facility. Plan for at least a few hours. Highlights include Cold Water Quest, a fascinating exhibit that explores cold water life across the world's oceans. Make a point of looking for some of the more unusual creatures that hang out here, including Australian sea dragons and Japanese spider crabs.

Traveling with young 'uns? Kids are particularly enthralled by the "Under the Boardwalk" experience. Included with your admission, this thrilling show sees the facility's trainers interact with sociable California sea lions.

The largest exhibit is the 6.3-million-gallon Ocean Voyager. It houses whale sharks and manta rays among its thousands of fish and features a 100-foot-long acrylic tunnel for visitors to walk through, surrounded by swimming fish, all of which you can see close up and in stunning detail.

You'll also want to make time for the River Scout exhibit. This cool display of creatures includes albino alligators, piranhas, and emerald tree boas.

Address: 225 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

Savannah is, without question, one of the most charming cities in the South. Its lovely shaded squares surrounded by elegant old mansions and its cobblestoned streets lined by trees draped in feathery Spanish moss create one of the most romantic urban scenes of any city in the world.

The greatest pleasure of Savannah is strolling through the Historic District. An area of over three square miles, this district preserves the old city much as it appeared at the time of the Civil War.

The north end is bounded by the spectacular Savannah riverfront, and at the southern end is Forsyth Park . Although the entire district is known for its many beautiful parks and squares, Forsyth Park is the largest and is a good example of a well-designed mid-1800s Southern park.

Its landmark feature is a graceful fountain. Much photographed, this stunning edifice looks great from any angle, so be patient, walk around it, and sooner or later you'll find a spot for a great photo that's devoid of tourists. The park's walking paths are shaded by lovely old trees that drape over them, making them pleasant to wander even in the hotter months.

More than just historic scenery, the Historic District is also alive with art, culture, museums, and mansions to tour. It's also a great place to stop and enjoy an overnight stay.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden next to Piedmont Park comes as a bit of a surprise. This four-season attraction always has something in bloom, from its spring bulb display through the colorful autumn foliage, and at any time of year, its several indoor gardens transport you to the tropics.

The Fuqua Orchid Center with its rich displays of orchids of all shapes and colors is a must-visit, as is the High Elevation House which shows the astonishing variety of plants native to the Cloud Forests of the Andes. Here, exotic bromeliads, mosses, ferns, trailing vines, and miniature orchids surround a massive indoor waterfall, and more exotics thrive in the Tropical Rotunda.

Outside are an Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen, where fruits and vegetables are grown as landscape plants. The Rose Garden is at its height in late spring and again in late summer, and the Hydrangea Collection is one of the finest in the Southeast, as is the collection of water plants.

The Japanese Garden features a teahouse, waterfall, pond, bamboo, dwarf Japanese maples, and a Moon Gate that provides a photo-worthy frame for the beds of bright annuals outside.

Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Named after the attractive tourist town in which it's based, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is one of the most-visited attractions in North Georgia. Operating from spring through late fall, this popular heritage railway takes you on a 26-mile stretch from Blue Ridge along the Toccoa River into the surrounding Appalachian Mountains.

It's a fun four-hour excursion that includes a return trip, plus two hours to explore the towns of McCaysville and Copperhill. Special seasonal excursions are offered in the fall, during Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Be sure to allocate time to explore downtown Blue Ridge, too. Fun things to do here include shopping and dining, as well as visiting notable attractions such as the Blue Ridge Arts Center and Fannin County Heritage Foundation.

Even if you don't take a ride on the scenic railway (but you should!), it's still fun watching the train trundle up and down the line that separates East- and West Nain Streets. Better still, see it while dining on the patio at Black Sheep Restaurant . The town's most popular fine-dining establishment, you'll need to book ahead to guarantee a table.

Address: 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia

The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is an inspirational destination that includes the birthplace and grave of the famous civil rights leader it's named after. On an easy-to-follow self-guided tour of this two-block area, you can see the house where Dr. King was born, part of a restored block of modest homes.

Here, too, is the Ebenezer Baptist Church where a friendly volunteer guide will give you a fascinating description of the role this church played in the neighborhood. The Freedom Hall Complex includes exhibits, and volunteers at Fire Station No. 6 discuss this station's place in community life.

A word about traffic: you're in the heart of Atlanta, so it can be heavy during peak times, so try to avoid rush hour if you can. While parking is available on-site, it can fill up, especially in the summer months. A good alternative is to use the plentiful downtown parking and make the 20-minute walk to the site. This also means you can visit a few other attractions near downtown Atalanta, including the Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola Museum.

Address: 400 & 500 blocks of Auburn Avenue, NE, Atlanta, Georgia

Lookout Mountain , situated at the border between Georgia and the state of Tennessee, was the scene of a Civil War battle but is best known today for the nature park along its rocky ridge. Begun in 1932 and made famous by more than 900 barn signs in 19 states, the park features trails through a series of rock formations and across a swinging bridge to Lookout Point.

On exceptionally clear days, points in seven states are visible from the top of the sheer cliff. Alongside the winding trail through the formations are gardens, stone bridges, narrow passages between massive rock faces, art installations, a mushroom-shaped balancing rock, and other features.

Seasonal festivals and events include Christmas lights and a Halloween festival with a corn maze.

Address: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, Georgia

Set in Enterprise Mill, a former textile mill close to the city center, the Augusta Canal Discovery Center paints a fascinating picture of the South's industrial revolution. The sprawling complex features well-preserved red brick warehouses and factory buildings that now house exhibits and scale models portraying Augusta's development as a major industrial center and port.

Start your visit with the orientation film that places the whole experience in perspective. A café and gift shop are also located on the premises.

A great boat tour on the adjacent waterways is included with your admission and includes commentary from a professional guide. In addition to other historic sites such as the old Confederate Powder Works, you may even spot some local wildlife along the route.

If you prefer to take a boat ride, or perhaps even a different on-water offering without visiting the discovery center, you can. Patriot River Boat Tours is another reputable tour provider which also offers a fun sunset tour.

While in Augusta, be sure to include the city's superb Riverwalk project on your itinerary. This paved, level path follows the Savannah River before looping back through the city's downtown area and makes for a very pleasant stroll. This three-mile trail offers great views across the Savannah River toward South Carolina, and town planners have provided plenty of park benches along the way.

Address: Blome Ln, Augusta, Georgia

The legendary Appalachian Trail, the lifetime goal of dedicated long-distance hikers, begins in this vast National Forest in the North Georgia Mountains, part of the Blue Ridge range. The forest takes its name from the Chattahoochee River, whose headwaters begin here, and has over 450 miles of hiking and recreation trails.

Trails are suitable for all skill and experience levels and lead to park highlights including Anna Ruby Falls and Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia . You can also drive to within 0.6 miles of the summit and follow a walking path to the viewing platform.

The forest's more than 2,200 miles of rivers and streams include about 1,367 miles of trout streams , so, in addition to hiking, fishing is one of the most popular things to do here. This is also a popular area for camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and picnicking.

The world's most popular soft drink was invented here in Atlanta in 1886 when a syrup created by Dr. John Pemberton to treat headaches was mixed with carbonic acid and water and served in Pemberton's pharmacy.

Today, the World of Coca-Cola uses colorful and entertaining exhibits to illustrate the drink's history and its development into the iconic drink now recognized all over the world. You'll find vintage posters and displays along with an astonishing variety of advertising and Coke logo items.

A highlight is the newest exhibit, Scent Discovery . This fascinating interactive exhibit lets you test your own sense of smell and the origins of various fragrances as it explores how the nose senses different aromas.

Address: 121 Baker Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia

Dedicated to the civil rights movement in the United States and more broadly to the struggle for human rights across the world, the Center for Civil and Human Rights is a dynamic and powerful experience that brings visitors face-to-face with one of the greatest social initiatives of recent history.

Your journey begins in the Civil Rights Movement gallery which portrays the fight for equality in the 1950s and 1960s, immersing you in the sights and sounds through interactive displays that bring to life the individuals who worked to overcome the Jim Crow laws and secure equal rights for all.

The Freedom Riders exhibit recreates the 1950s bus, with oral histories and a film made inside the bus. The Lunch Counter exhibit is perhaps the most moving. You'll find yourself sitting at a replica counter encountering the angry faces and listening with earphones to the voices of tormentors who threatened those who tried to eat at public lunch counters.

Other thought-provoking aspects of the museum you'll want to experience are the multimedia displays that bring the March on Washington alive through songs and speeches. Martyrs who lost their lives in the struggle for equal rights are also honored with their photos and stories, while the Human Rights Movement gallery connects the struggles for human rights throughout the world through interactive technology exploring fundamental rights and encouraging visitors to engage in the discussion.

Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, Georgia

When America wants to celebrate its military, it certainly doesn't pull any punches. Located just a short drive from downtown Columbus on the edge of the massive Fort Benning military base, the huge National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center features 190,000 square feet of space crammed full of fascinating exhibits and artifacts related to the men and women of the United States Army.

Highlights include displays relating to the army's early years right up to the modern day, with stops in between focusing on WWII and the Vietnam War. The focus is very much on the experiences of the soldiers tasked with fighting, with plenty of uniforms and weapons on display, as well as the machinery of war.

Other highlights include a large-screen movie theater, combat simulators, a parade ground, and original WWII-era buildings from Fort Benning. If you've got time, check out the Heritage Trail that circles the 155-acre site. Guided tours are available, and a gift shop and restaurant are located on-site.

Author's Tip : While a 15-minute drive away from Columbus, you can in fact reach the National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center by bike from the downtown area via the 22-mile-long Chattahoochee RiverWalk .

Address: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Columbus, GA

North of Columbus, on Pine Mountain, is a popular leisure center established by the industrialist Cason Callaway. Known as Calloway Gardens , here you can enjoy artificial lakes, gardens of magnolias and azaleas, and a butterfly house. Spreading across the garden's 2,500 acres are hiking and cycling trails, and Robin Lake has the world's largest man-made white-sand beach.

The lake, which hosts the annual Masters' Waterski and Wakeboard Tournament, offers a great opportunity to participate in water sports. Also on the grounds are two excellent golf courses and in December, Christmas at Calloway is the south's most spectacular display of Christmas lights.

Address: 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain, Georgia

The 863-foot-high granite outcrop of Stone Mountain is almost completely bare of trees or plant life, its bald dome standing out prominently from the surrounding land. Into the sheer eastern side, a large relief of three Confederate leaders was carved between 1923 and 1970, a memorial that has caused considerable controversy in recent years.

A cable car ascends to the summit for sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline, only about 15 miles away. You can also climb to the top or follow one of the endurance courses through the treetops on suspended rope walks.

A 1940s locomotive carries passengers on a five-mile track around the park, and a land-and-water tour on a 1940s Army DUKW features local history. Other things to do include a restored antebellum plantation and a museum with Native American artifacts. Families like the petting zoo and the dinosaur park of 20 life-size prehistoric creatures that move and roar.

Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, Georgia

Starting north of the city's downtown core and continuing for 22 miles as far south as Fort Benning , Chattahoochee RiverWalk is an excellent way to get in some sightseeing in Columbus. Along the way, you'll pass lovely green spaces, benches offering superb views over the Chattahoochee River, historic red-brick mills and warehouses, numerous dining options, and playgrounds for the kids.

It's also where you'll find some of the best places in Georgia for adventure sports like white water rafting. One of the most popular, RushSouth Whitewater Park , boasts one of the longest "in town" rapids in the US, all just steps away from River Walk.

As well as featuring adventures for beginners and seasoned rafters, the park also offers kayak excursions and tubing. There's also a thrilling zipline experience over the river and which ends in the neighboring state of Alabama. It's an experience that's almost as thrilling for onlookers as there are plenty of spots to observe these brave zipliners heading off on their cross-river adventure.

And when you're done with all that action, Uptown Columbus is just steps away and features plenty of great dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities. If you're a donut fan you'll want to make sure Veri Best Donuts is on your list of must-tries. They've been baking these tasty treats since 1954.

You don't have to try too hard to find the University of Georgia (UGA) when in Athens. Evidence of this huge, sprawling campus is everywhere, including the streams of youthful students walking to and from the university. You'll see evidence of the university in the downtown core, too, where the original campus started life back in 1785.

Today the sprawling campus covers 767 acres and is fun to explore on foot. Start your self-guided tour at the informative UGA Visitors Center. Pleasant paths and trails head off in many directions, so be prepared to get lost. But honestly, it's so nice a campus, getting lost is part of the fun.

Along the way, you'll encounter lush green spaces and nature preserves, elegant old red-brick homes and college buildings, and important modern attractions like the Georgia Museum of Art .

Address: 405 College Station Road, Athens, Georgia

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Athens, GA

The Okefenokee Swamp , known to the Indians as the "Land of the Quaking Earth," is an area of swampland in southern Georgia covering more than 770 square miles.

It is a maze of watercourses, cypress swamps, and swamp grassland. Interesting features are the "floating islands," which quake underfoot but nevertheless support whole forests and in the past provided protection for Indian settlements.

The swamp is home to many endangered species, as well as an estimated 10,000 alligators. From the little town of Waycross there are boat trips into the swamp.

The small barrier Tybee Island near Savannah draws tourists to its more than three miles of wide, clean beaches backed by dunes and washed by gentle waves. Swimming and building sandcastles are only the beginning of the many fun things to do on Tybee Island.

You can take a boat excursion to see dolphins, learn to surf at North Beach, tour the wildlife-filled salt marsh estuaries of Little Tybee Island on a paddleboard, kayak around the tiny Cockspur Island Lighthouse, and climb to the top of historic Tybee Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island.

To add a bit of culture or history to your vacation, galley hop to find the work of local artists or visit Fort Screven's 19th-century gun batteries and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Things to Do in Georgia : Besides romantic antebellum Savannah and the cultural attractions of Atlanta , the state offers plenty of places to visit for weekend getaways. And in the mountains and at its beaches, you'll find plenty of top-rated resorts in Georgia.

Where to Go Near Georgia : The state is also surrounded by other interesting places to explore: South of Georgia is Florida , with its glorious beaches . North of Georgia is South Carolina , with historic Charleston and the beautiful long sands of Myrtle Beach .

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5 Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Georgia

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If you have taken some time to visit Georgia, you will know that there is a lot to explore, whether you are interested in heading to the World of Coke in Atlanta or perhaps you have been fortunate to get the elusive Masters tickets at the highly sought after Augusta National.

Georgia is a hotspot for many reasons, none more so than the delicious peach (more on that later). Whether you have a keen interest in natural beauty or simply look forward to exploring arts and culture around major cities, Georgia is proud to excel in all these areas.

We have visited Georgia on a couple of different occasions, experiencing the gorgeous city of Atlanta and of course flying through the Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, renowned as the busiest airport in the nation.

However, before sharing our own thoughts on why you should want to visit Georgia, we are delighted to introduce Cheryl Rodewig from CherylRodewig.com who suggests why booking a trip to ‘The Peach State’ should be on your to-do list.

You can also keep up with Cheryl on Twitter and LinkedIn:

Twitter –   @cherylrodewig LinkedIn – Cheryl Rodewig

Introduction

Georgia just might be the perfect destination, and I say this as a transplanted Northerner who’s fallen in love quite by accident with the Peach State. You can hike to waterfalls and build sandcastles in the same day. Or dive into Atlanta’s multicultural scene of fashion, art, science, and tech.

If it’s food you favor, well, let’s just say there’s more than sweet tea and biscuits here. Georgia chefs are reimaging Southern staples, from hyper-local eats to fusion cuisine.

And with the world’s largest airport, it’s easy to get here. These are the top five reasons you should visit.

Cumberland Island

You could say it’s a little off the beaten track, but all the better. A pristine undeveloped barrier island off the coast of Southwest Georgia, Cumberland Island is accessible only by ferry.

It’s not your typical island. Wild horses roam the dunes. Miles of flawless beaches stretch on end with no sign of human art or interference. Inland, the ruins of a Carnegie estate, Dungeness, have succumbed to vegetation overgrowth, but Gatsby-style magnificence, the sweeping arches, and grand entrance is still visible. It’s a place frozen in time — remote, wild and distractingly scenic.

Atlanta’s Art Scene

Atlanta’s eclectic art landscape matches its diverse population. It has a handle on the classics like opera and ballet. The downtown Fox Theatre hosts Broadway hits while originals from the masters — Monet and Pissarro — hang at the High Museum of Art.

But there’s no shortage of the unconventional. Case in point is the Goat Farm, a repurposed industrial site serving as an incubator for creativity. From mechanical puppetry to choose-your-own-adventure theater, I’ve seen it all there.

Or take GloATL, an innovative dance company that thinks it not unusual to dance through a city. Top that off with the Atlanta Fringe Festival each summer, and you have art for every style.

If you had to sum up the South in one quintessential place, it just might be Savannah, Georgia. The city has all the elegance, indulgence, and warm Southern hospitality to make you fall in love. Stately live oaks drip with lace-like Spanish moss. Tea parlors serve clotted cream and strawberries. Secret gardens peek out from behind elaborate wrought iron gates downtown. They even have their own beach playground: Tybee Island.

It’s a historic city where you can commune with ghosts in ancient cemeteries or tour relics of the past like the one-time plantation, Wormsloe. Enjoy it at its own pace: slowly in a horse-drawn carriage, gently while dancing on a moonlight river cruise.

Gibbs Gardens

Gibbs Gardens was conceived as a pleasure garden, like the flower-filled parks of old Europe, where you would go to pass an afternoon long before TV or Internet. But gardens are timeless, and this one delivers on what was intended: truly contagious pleasure.

There’s an effusion of color in all seasons, from the creamy yellows of 20 million daffodils in early spring to the brilliant reds and golds of autumn. The 40-acre Japanese Garden is the largest in the nation, an absolute masterpiece of form and landscaping. Elsewhere, ferns, fountains, terraces and bridges ornament the estate and delight the senses.

• North Georgia Mountains

Quaint mountain towns and unspoiled nature, Georgia’s Appalachian foothills are a welcome respite from everyday urban life. Choose a city as a home base for your rambles. Helen is restful, fashioned after a Bavarian Alpine village, yet a little wild once a year for Oktoberfest. Dahlonega is fun with its town square, old-timey General Store, vineyards and gold mines.

Nearby, state parks combine stunning scenery with plenty of activity: fishing, kayaking, rafting, and caving. They also preserve a treasure trove of natural wonders built on an epic scale. Climb the over 600 steps to the top of Amicalola Falls or descend 1,000 feet into Tallulah Gorge. Don’t forget your camera.

Visit Georgia – Our Thoughts

Although our experiences in Georgia are certainly not at the level of Cheryl’s, we have seen enough to inspire us to explore more. Simply driving from Arkansas to Atlanta through the scenic countryside along the interstate is an eye-opening experience and of course, once you reach Atlanta, there are plenty of reasons that will make you want to stay longer.

Atlanta is one of our favorite cities, especially at Christmas when the lights and magic in the air creates a wonderful atmosphere for all the family to relax and be part of the festive spirit.

The World of Coca-Cola offers a cool experience to learn all about the history of the world’s most iconic beverage and of course, the “Taste It” area allows visitors the opportunity to sample over 100 domestic and international Coke varieties.

Ok…so you are probably still wondering what all the fuss is about over the infamous ‘Georgia Peach’.

I read an article recently that stated the following about Georgia peaches.

Once you start eating them, it’s nearly impossible to stop.

It’s called the peach state for a reason and Georgia peaches live up to the hype. But just like many other states, as you can see there are plenty of other reasons that should entice you to the state of Georgia.

There is no question that Georgia is a beautiful state with an abundance of attractive reasons for visitors to choose this over alternative options in this part of the country. With the nation’s busiest airport in the heart of the state, it’s no surprise to hear that millions of visitors head to Atlanta and nearby destinations in Georgia to explore everything in “The Peach State”.

We want to reiterate our appreciation to Cheryl for sharing her favorite spots around the state of Georgia and if you feel like us, you will be raring to head back and explore more of this beautiful part of the States.

One final tip – don’t forget to sample those decadent peaches before leaving Georgia!

Have you explored Georgia? If so, where do you recommend we visit and if not, which spots are most appealing?

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Savannah is hands down my favorite town in the U.S!! When I am done with my travels that is where I want to call home! Thanks for sharing some other great places to check out in Georgia!

Loving this “5 Reasons” series on the states! Looking forward to more. 🙂

I would really love to visit Savannah! We were supposed to stop there as we road tripped from Tennessee to Florida but we ended up getting stuck in NC due to a small accident. 🙁 But now my parents have moved to Kentucky so maybe I’ll have a better chance! #WeekendWanderlust

While I might be clique, I’d love to visit Georgia to gorge on peaches. Do they have U-pick farms??

Georgia has been on our mind forever! I’d love to visit very soon, especially Savannah!

Although we’ve be in and through Atlanta quite a few times, we haven’t really gotten out and explored, sadly. We have spent some time in Savannah though, and absolutely love it! It does seem to be the epitome of Southern charm and grace. Nice post – definitely makes us want to do more than just lay-over in Atlanta!

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15 reasons to visit Georgia – the amazing emerging destination

My first Georgia trip, back in 2011, changed my travelling forever.

It was the first country in former USSR I’ve ever been to, the first of the (then) unknown destinations I’ve decided to visit.

My trip happened shortly after the war with Russia, before the low-cost airlines started flying there and before Georgia got into the radar of mass tourism.

I didn’t know what to expect from the place and I was even reconsidering my decision to visit Georgia as I felt I’m not ready for such an adventurous solo trip.

But I went, full of fear, and it turned out to be the best trip ever.

I felt in love with Georgia right away and since then I’ve been visiting Georgia over and over again., it’s been over 10 times now. There are always so many great places to visit in Georgia and I love (re)discovering them.

Even if the tourism in the country has changed recently, not in the best way, I still enjoy every single trip to Georgia and whenever I see cheap flights I can’t resist and book them.

Georgia essentials

Planning a trip to Georgia? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
• Get insured for your trip to Georgia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Reasons to visit Georgia

There are so many reasons why Georgia is among my favorite countries and why you should visit Georgia too.

From delicious food to hospitable people, from incredible landscape to vibrant cities – Georgia has it all!

It’s one of these countries where, within a short span of time, you can swim in the Black Sea, go skiing in the Caucasus mountains and in between enjoy bustling city life.

If you’re still wondering if you should visit Georgia or not below are some convincing reasons why yes, it’s an excellent idea!

Georgian food is the best

Georgian food is hands down the best. This already is a solid reason why I keep returning to Georgia.

We do have few Georgian restaurants and bakeries here in Warsaw too that I visit frequently but it’s still not as good as in Georgia.

The best thing about the local cuisine is that, even if there are numerous meat dishes, vegetarians will be really happy there too. I know I am!

I start each visit in Georgia with a real feast and the goodies I’m always most looking forward to are badrijani (fried eggplant with walnut sauce), khachapuri (cheese-bread), lobio (very thick bean soup), khinkhali (dumplings), ajapsandali (vegetable stew) and few more.

But my absolute favorite food in Georgia is just a simple salad made from cucumbers and tomatoes.

It’s a pure heaven, the ingredients are so fresh, so crispy like nowhere else. Just writing this made me miss Georgian food!

Beautiful, diverse landscape

Georgian landscape is breathtaking and there is no exaggeration in this statement.

It’s a relatively small country but offers so much: Black Sea beaches (mostly full of stones but still decent enough to spend some relaxing time at), high Caucasus and lower lush mountains, incredible caves, green valleys and more.

I don’t think there is a boring part of Georgia, everywhere you go you will be in awe of the amazing landscape around you.

Long and turbulent history

The area of Georgia was an important place already in the ancient world (then it was known as Colchis and Kingdom of Iberia) and for centuries it has been a strong an independent country.

The peak of prosperity happened between 11th and 13th century, especially when Queen Tamar ruled the country (until today she is a role model of many Georgian women but then how many badass queens you know from the history?).

Since the end of the 18th century Georgia was under the Russian rule, it was also part of the Soviet Union (btw, did you know that Stalin was born in Gori, Georgia and his full name was Ioseb Besarionis dze Jughashvili?).

On April 9th 1991 Georgia regained its independence but that’s when the turbulent history has started again – if you follow world’s news you might remember the civil war or the 2008 short war with Russia.

Now finally the peace and stability came to Georgia.

Excellent wine

While everyone is raving about wines from such exotic destinations like New Zealand , South Africa or Argentina it’s Georgian wine that deserves the attention.

Not only it’s really good, it also has a long history. Did you know that the wine was produced in the area already in the 6th century BC?

These days the main region to taste Georgian wine is Kakheti in the eastern part of the country, 75% of the production comes from there.

What’s more, you can get an excellent homemade wine just about everywhere, you can buy it in the restaurants or at local markets where they are sold in the Coca-Cola bottles (it’s actually part of the charm of the markets).

Hospitable people

Georgian people are among the nicest and most hospitable I’ve ever met.

Even if over the years tourism has ruined the encounters a bit and now scams happen more and more often I still think very highly of local people.

During my first trip to Georgia I could have experienced some incredible hospitality, including the famous kidnapping when locals didn’t take no for an answer, invited me to their homes and feed me delicious food.

Fortunately I was prepared and had some small souvenirs from Poland with me so I could at least pay back this way.

Now I still keep meeting nice people everywhere around who do their best to welcome me in their country.

Just a small hint: if you decide to visit Georgia try to learn at least some basic Russian as it helps tremendously when talking to the locals, especially older generation.

Vibrant cities

I love the buzz in main Georgian cities.

All three of them: Tbilisi , Batumi and Kutaisi are busy, vibrant and worth a visit.

You should travel to Tbilisi to see beautiful yet crumbling capital with numerous Tbilisi attractions that will keep you occupied for at least 2-3 days. Old Tbilisi , the main touristic spot, looks like from a fairy tale really!

Batumi, the seaside resort, is more than just the beach and funky architecture. The city has a charming old town, amazing botanical garden, some good street art around and lush mountains surrounding the city.

Kutaisi is often overlooked by tourists but second biggest city in Georgia is worth your time too, it’s such a pleasant and offbeat destination.

These cities are a perfect example that Georgia is more than its beautiful nature.

Interesting abandoned spaces

If you’re fan of exploring abandoned places and would like to visit places like Chernobyl (or maybe you’ve already been there) then Georgia might be an interesting destination for you.

Due to the recent conflicts and weak economy there are numerous places that once, in full glory, were impressing masses and now are decaying, forgotten by many.

The perfect example here is Tskaltubo , a former spa town located just a short ride away from Kutaisi.

Back in the golden times even Stalin used to come here for the treatment, now the fancy sanatoriums, a stunning example of Soviet architecture, are either abandoned or home to IDPs from Abkhazia.

You can even find lots of old abandoned houses in the Old Tbilisi and even if they are slowly being renovated it still breaks my heart to see how damaged some of the beautiful houses are.

But on the other hand they are part of Old Tbilisi’s charm…

Great Soviet architecture: concrete + mosaics

There are not too many fans of Soviet architecture but for those who admire it (and I’m one of them) Georgia is like a big playground.

During my last visit in Tbilisi I spent the whole day chasing Soviet architecture and mosaics and I’ve seen only a small part of what I was hoping for.

I bet you’ve seen the building that looks like the real life Tetris – that’s The Bank of Georgia headquarters (former Soviet Ministry of Roads) located in Tbilisi, a real gem of brutalism architecture.

But there are many more concrete wonders around, like gaining bigger and bigger fame Chronicle of Georgia monument.

If you like colorful Soviet mosaics you will find plenty of them around too, including in one of the Tbilisi hotspots – Fabrika.

The hipster place to be

Speaking of Fabrika – you might not expect it but Tbilisi is one of the most hipster cities you will see in Europe (and definitely in the former Soviet Union) and Fabrika is the heart of it.

A former sewing factory is now full of cafes/bars, start-ups and artists’ studios.

But that’s not the only place where you will find cool and funky places, they are spread all over the city.

Young Georgians are stylish and with a great taste, looking at them makes me often feel jealous as I’m far from being fashionable.

I can’t decide which city is more hipster-ish, Kyiv or Tbilisi.

If you like alterative spots include Tbilisi in your bucket list!

Perfect adventure destination

Thanks to diverse landscape Georgia can be a great destination for adventure lovers.

You can go skiing here in Gudauri, climb Mt. Kazbek (5047 meters above the sea level), go horseback riding in numerous valleys or paragliding in Caucasus mountains.

Even such a random thing like riding a cable car can be thrilling when you do it in Chiatura where cars remember 1950s and are called “moving coffins”.

Don’t forget about Georgian drivers who are a bit crazy and you say good bye to your life every second marshrutka ride.

Georgia is full of adventures!

Interesting monuments

Georgia might not be too big on monuments (minus churches but more about them later) but those you can find around are surely impressive.

Some of the best monuments in Georgia include fortresses (like the one in Tbilisi or Gori) and castles (Ananuri, Rabati) as well as incredible cave towns like Uplistsikhe or Vardzia.

There are also some random monuments in the middle of nowhere – when you travel to Kazbegi you will spot on your left side a concrete monument of Georgian-Russian friendship that is located in the most random place ever, on the side of the road, surrounded by beautiful Caucasus mountains.

Georgia is the second country in the world, after Armenia , that took Christianity as a state religion, in the 4th century.

All over the country you will find beautiful and one of a kind churches, some of them as old as from the 6th century (like the one in Mtskheta, the “holy city” of Georgia).

Georgian monasteries have a distinctive shape, you will recognize them everywhere (only Armenian churches are very similar but more round) with their raw architecture.

However as soon as you go inside your jaw might drop a bit after seeing the beautiful old paintings. If you’re lucky you can even witness a magical play of light pouring in through the small windows.

Georgia is safe

I remember how afraid I was of visiting Georgia prior my first trip – already on my first day I learned that there is nothing really to worry about, it’s just a regular country and besides using common sense like everywhere else there are no extra safety precautions you should take.

Of course crime happens there, like in numerous other places around the world, but if you’re worrying about Georgia safety you can stop now.

The biggest risk there is travelling around as Georgian drivers are just crazy!

Affordable prices

The good thing about traveling to Georgia is that it won’t drain your wallet.

Everything is very affordable in comparison to Western European standards.

1 lari is currently around $0,38 or €0,33.

To give you some examples of prices: marshrutka from Kutaisi city to Tbilisi is 10 lari for over 3 hours journey (230kms), metro ride in Tbilisi costs 0,50 lari, you can get khachapuri in the bakery for 2-3 lari, lunch for even as little as 10-15 lari and a decent accommodation for 50 lari/night.

If you’re looking for a low-cost destination that offers good standard for little price Georgia is your answer!

Visit Georgia before it’s too late

Even if there are more and more tourists visiting Georgia each year (it was on the fourth place of the UNWTO’s 2018 list of fastest growing tourism destinations ) the country still is a bit undiscovered.

While most of the tourists focus on the highlights and visit Georgia in the summer time you should travel there in the off season when everything is much calmer and nicer.

It’s a matter of time when tourists will really overflow Georgia and the country will change forever so now is the best time to go, before it’s too late!

Visit Georgia – practical information

How to get to georgia.

There are three international airports in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi – most likely you will fly into the second one as it serves low-cost airlines from numerous destinations all over Europe and offers really good prices.

If you do arrive to Kutaisi airport there is no need to worry about getting out from there – a local company Georgian Bus has shuttle buses to Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi, connected with all the flights.

You can get the ticket online or after arriving – their stand is right in front of the exit from the arrivals hall, you can’t miss it.

One way ticket from Kutaisi airport to Tbilisi is 20 lari and to Kutaisi city is 5 lari.

In Tbilisi buses arrive to Liberty Square in the very center of the city.

If you fly to Tbilisi there is a local bus no 37 running 24/7 that connects the airport with the city (Liberty Square, Rustaveli metro station and train station), the ticket is 0,50 lari.

How to get around Georgia

There’re very few train lines that can get you from Tbilisi to Batumi or Zugdidi (and from there you can catch marshrutka to Svaneti) as well as some local destinations.

Most likely you will just use marshrutkas – Soviet style mini buses that are not very comfortable but they are fast, cheap and often your only option.

In Tbilisi they depart from few places, depending on the destination, you will most likely use the Didube station for places in north and west of the country and Samgori station for Kakheti.

If you are short of time or the whole process of finding the right marshrutka is overwhelming you can go for organized tours – there are plenty of them and they are often affordable. Click here to find and book some of the best tours.

What to see in Georgia

You can already see a lot in few days if you base yourself in Tbilisi and go for day trips around but of course the more time you have the better. Some of the places you can’t miss are:

• Tbilisi – the amazing capital
• Kazbegi with Gergeti Triniti Church – on the way you should stop in Ananuri and Mtskheta
• One (or all) of the cave towns: David Gareja , Uplistsikhe, Vardzia
• Spa town Borjomi
• Kakheti wine region
• Kutaisi, with day trips to Chiatura, Tskaltubo, Prometeus Cave, Gelati monastery or Okatse Canyon
• The Black Sea resort Batumi
• Svaneti for some amazing mountains view

Where to stay in Georgia

There’s a whole range of accommodation to choose from, from hostels and guest houses to boutique hotels – you can choose whatever you like!

Just keep in mind that sometimes the standard, especially in the cheaper places, might not be the best – Georgia is still learning the tourism industry and many people try to earn from a sudden flow of visitors, offering their places to rent that might not really be ideal in Western standards.

Before booking the accommodation take a minute to read the reviews and see pictures to know what you’re getting.

I always find my accommodation at Booking.com and never had any major issues in Georgia. Click here to find your accommodation in Georgia!

Language in Georgia

Georgia has its own alphabet that is just the prettiest but you understand literally nothing.

It took me a while to recognize the name “Tbilisi” written in Georgian (თბილისი) and that’s about it.

Getting around with English only is doable, especially in touristic areas but often knowing some Russian is a life-saver, even if it’s just enough to ask where is your marshrutka and what’s the price for the ride.

It’s also good to know few Georgian words, that always brings smile on people’s faces.

Those I use most often are didi madloba (thank you) and gamarjoba (hello) – don’t confuse it with “gaumarjos” (cheers) – I did it once at Kutaisi airport and got friendly laughs from the border officer in return.

Travel insurance in Georgia

I never travel without the insurance as you never know what might happen on the road and better safe than sorry ( I’ve learnt my lesson ).

I can recommend SafetyWing that offer the insurance dedicated to travelers just like you and me.

Click here to get the insurance policy for Georgia here.

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• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Georgia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. If you like what you are reading and seeing here and would like to support me and my blog please consider using those links. It would be like getting me a virtual drink that you don’t have to pay for! Thanks!

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32 Comments

Wow, Kami, what an excellent, comprehensive post, and your photographs are absolutely fabulous. Recently we visited Slovakia and Hungary where we found the information in your blogs was really helpful. I look forward to following you in your 2019 adventures too.

Thank you for your kind comment Alison, I’m glad I could help! All the best and happy travels!

thanks again for all your wonderful information, I am heading to Georgia as well as Armenia and Azerbaijan, (March to May) based wholly on your blogs. Hope you enjoyed Jordan again but this time with your Mum a great place. Who couldn’t like Petra.

Thank you Kris! Yes we did enjoy Jordan a lot, just like you said – Petra is incredible. I’m sure you will have an amazing trip to the Caucasus, if there is anything I can help you with feel free to message me!

Marek Kremer

Amazing pictures Kami! Do you carry some advanced equipment on your tours? Nice reading too. Seems you have seen most of it :-)

Thank you! I use Fujifilm xt10 and can definitely recommend it. It’s a small and handy camera to use and it takes amazing pictures.

Georgia was my first solo backpacking-trip, and Georgia has a very special place in my heart. Such a wonderful country. Thank you for a good read. I found myself nodding all along. I also agree on your listing of highlights, but i wonder if you ever went to Ushguli in Svaneti? Ushguli is probably one of the prettiest and most magical spots i have ever seen.

I’m glad you liked the post :) Unfortunately I haven’t made it to Svaneti yet but I think it’s a matter of time as I really do hope to get there one day, everyone says it’s a breathtaking place!

Looks amazing! Since you’ve travelled to Georgia so often, do you feel it’s save to bring a baby along?

Yes, I think it is! Depending on the age of the baby it just might be a bit challenging with a stroller, but definitely safe.

Gaesi KM Maviya

Hi I am seriously considering to buy property in Batimi and I already have an offer. What advise would you give me.

I’m sorry but I’m not an expert in buying properties in Georgia. Good luck!

Hey Kami, as a Georgian, I want to thank you for such a detailed and kind post, everything is on spot!

One small typo correction – wine has been produced here since 6th millenium BC, not century :)

Thank you Misha for correcting me! Glad you liked the post :) All the best!

Kami hi! Loved your post and that you love being here so much! ❤ You are always so welcome! I had the same correction though, so decided to just reply here, the oldest wine remains have actually been discovered in Georgia -not Armenia, as written in your post- and it has been scientifically proven by the University of Pennsylvania

And one more detail, it is specifically King Tamar – she was enthroned as a title “King” -Queen is incorrect- by her own father to signify that she herself was the ruler of Georgia and had as much power and influence as any other ruler of male gender. It is during her ruling period. That’s the historically correct title and an important detail in our history, and hope you can change that too ❤ Male and female equality was prominent even so long ago in Georgia, you can even read a phrase in “The Knight in Panther’s Skin” (dedicated to King Tamar by Rustaveli) that (literal translation) “the cubs of a lion are equal, be it a male or a female”. It’s a world wide known peom and you can find it’s amazing translation in Eng by Lyn Coffin (even technical part-rhyming- is identical).

Best wishes and ❤❤ from Georgia, Mariam

nice sharing. I also visited there for having enjoyment.

Thank you. Glad you had a good time in Georgia

Good lord Kami … the more you show these former USSR pictures, the more I want to go and explore them …. It’s the language that’s holding me back and the cyrillic … I tried to learn russian with duo lingo or something like that … but I gave up … it’s too hard … I literally could go just now … Again a solo travel with no idea of those alphabets. it’s kinda scary to be honest.

It’s not that bad really and in bigger and touristy places people speak some English. Google Translate helps a lot too. You should really try, some nice, big city for a start. I’m sure you will enjoy it!

I also spent a really good time there during my last summer holidays and we came back with smiley faces.

I’m glad to hear that :)

Hi Kami, Very well written or very much detailed information about Georgia. I definitely would advise anyone to go by your words and experience. I have also been to Georgia more than 10 times and i love the country and love the Georgian people.

Thank you! I’m really glad to hear you had good experience in Georgia too. This is such a wonderful country!

Thanks a mill for the post. We’re planning our first trip there and the info is outstanding.

I’m glad you found it useful. I’m sure Georgia will enchant you, this is such a great country!

Kami, Great job, nice reading. Next time if you visit Georgia, go to Zugdidi, (eastern part) and visit Dadiani Museum and botanical Garden. The museum was residence of Megrelian Princes Salome Dadiani and her husband, Aschil Miurat, who was the nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte. They have Napoleon Bonaparte’s mask there in museum along with other interesting staff belonged to them after, you can visit Svaneti, which is close to Zugdidi, Thank you for your interesting stories

Thank you! I’ve had Zugdidi on my bucket list for a long time so hopefully next time I will finally make it there! :) Thanks for the recommendation!

Thank you! I am packing my bags! I don’t speak Russian but my son-in-law does but if I can’t talk him into being our guide, does anyone offer tourist interpreters or guides services?

There are plenty of tour companies and guides in Georgia, you will easily find some you can use there. Georgia is amazing, I’m sure you will enjoy it too!

Hi, responding very late, but yes I work as guide in Georgia more than 10 years. If you have questions you can write me, I will gladly assist you

Thank you so much for the intensive description of Georgia, without your information, I wouldn’t have been able to understand such a beautiful country.

I’m glad you enjoyed the article. All the best!

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Why Visit Georgia?

Georgia is a country of diverse and fascinating experiences. From its rich history to its breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities to delicious cuisine, warm hospitality to adventure sports, and religious landmarks to festivals and celebrations, Georgia has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or simply a unique and unforgettable travel experience, Georgia is a destination worth exploring. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the many reasons why Georgia should be on every traveler's bucket list.

• Rich History

Georgia is a country with a rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Mtskheta and Gelati Monastery, as well as experience unique Georgian traditions like polyphonic music and cuisine. Tours to Georgia offer the opportunity to discover the country's diverse landscapes, from the Caucasus Mountains to the Black Sea coast.

• Beautiful Scenery

Georgia is known for its breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the country's diverse landscapes, from the soaring peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the rugged beauty of the Svaneti region. The Black Sea coast offers stunning views of the sea and coastal towns, while the rolling hills of Kakheti are home to some of Georgia's best vineyards. Hiking, skiing, and adventure tours are popular ways to experience the country's natural beauty. Travel to Georgia for a memorable and picturesque experience in the great outdoors.

• Vibrant Cities

Georgia's vibrant cities offer a unique blend of modernity and traditional charm, making them a popular destination for travelers. Tbilisi, the capital city, boasts a mix of architectural styles and trendy neighborhoods, such as the Old Town and the hipster district of Fabrika. Batumi, located on the Black Sea coast, is a popular resort town with a lively nightlife and impressive modern architecture. Kutaisi, the second largest city, is home to ancient landmarks and a bustling city center. Visitors can explore the cities on foot or with guided tours, and enjoy local cuisine, shopping, and cultural attractions. Travel to Georgia for an exciting and unforgettable urban experience.

• Delicious Cuisine

Experience Georgia's mouth-watering culinary adventure through food tours and cooking classes, and indulge in traditional dishes such as khinkali (dumplings), khachapuri (cheese bread), and shashlik (grilled meat). Discover the country's unique culinary traditions and ingredients, including fresh herbs and spices, meats, and cheeses, and enjoy local wines and brandy. A trip to Georgia is an opportunity to tantalize your taste buds and savor the delicious flavors of this vibrant country.

• Wine Country

Travel to Georgia, the "cradle of wine" and discover the country's rich winemaking tradition, which dates back over 8,000 years. Georgia boasts around 500 unique grape varieties and is known for its diverse and flavorful wines. One of the country's most unique winemaking techniques is qvevri winemaking, where wine is fermented and aged in large earthenware vessels called qvevri. This ancient method has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Visitors can explore the country's many vineyards, taste the famous amber-colored qvevri wine, and learn about the ancient art of winemaking through wine tours and tastings. A trip to Georgia is a journey through time and an opportunity to experience the true essence of wine country.

• Warm Hospitality

A trip to Georgia is not just about discovering the country's beautiful landscapes, history, and cuisine. It is also about experiencing the warm hospitality of its people. Georgian locals are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making travelers feel right at home. Tours and activities led by knowledgeable guides provide insight into the country's culture, traditions, and way of life, while homestays and guesthouses offer a unique opportunity to experience authentic Georgian hospitality firsthand. Travelers to Georgia can expect to enjoy shared meals, lively conversations, and heartfelt toasts, making their trip a warm and unforgettable cultural experience.

• Adventure Sports

Georgia offers a range of thrilling adventure sports for adrenaline seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking in the Caucasus Mountains, skiing in world-class resorts, rafting in fast-flowing rivers, and paragliding over scenic valleys. Off-road tours and mountain biking are popular ways to explore the country's rugged terrain, while horseback riding and hunting offer a unique cultural experience. Adventure tours and activities are led by experienced guides and instructors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Travel to Georgia for an unforgettable adventure and discover the country's natural beauty and exciting outdoor activities.

• Affordable Prices

Georgia is an affordable destination for travelers looking to get the most out of their trip without breaking the bank. The country's low cost of living makes it possible to enjoy a variety of activities, from sampling delicious cuisine to exploring historical landmarks, all at an affordable price. Accommodations, transportation, and tours are also reasonably priced, allowing travelers to maximize their budget and make the most of their travelling experience. Travel to Georgia for an affordable and unforgettable trip that won't compromise on quality or experiences!

• Religious Landmarks

Georgia is home to many significant religious landmarks, making it a popular destination for religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, churches, and cathedrals, such as the 6th-century Jvari Monastery and the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country's unique blend of Orthodox and Christian traditions is reflected in its religious architecture, art, and traditions. Guided tours and excursions offer the opportunity to learn more about the country's religious history and cultural heritage. Discover Georgia for an enlightening and unforgettable journey through the country's religious landmarks and traditions!

Festivals And Celebrations

Georgia is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its many festivals and celebrations. One of the most famous celebrations is Rtveli, the traditional grape harvest festival, which takes place in late September and early October. Other popular events include Tbilisi Open Air, a music festival held in the capital city, and the Tbilisi International Film Festival. Visitors can also experience traditional folk festivals, such as the Kolkhoba Festival, which celebrates the harvest and local traditions. Travel to Georgia during one of these festive occasions for a unique and unforgettable cultural experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

• Festivals and Celebrations

Continue Exploring

Caucasus calling: 6 reasons to visit Georgia

Dec 24, 2019 • 7 min read

Tbilisi's Old Town is famous for its domed abanotubani (sulphur baths) and colourful houses with wooden balconies © saiko3p / Getty Images

Straddling Europe and Asia , and cradled between the greater and lesser Caucasus ranges, Georgia ’s rich culture and diverse landscapes belie its modest size. Sub-tropical valleys and imposing mountains immediately inspire awe, while the near legendary hospitality of the Georgian people invites visitors to share in a deeper understanding of the country and its heritage.  There are many reasons to visit this surprising and welcoming country; here are just six of them.

Tbilisi's capital charisma

Georgia’s capital is charmingly chaotic. Its grand, wide boulevards whittle down to a criss-cross of cobbled streets away from the main thoroughfares, and old, meandering alleyways beckon for attention amidst angular glass-and-steel modern architecture.

Wander through the streets of its hillside Old Town for the best insight into Tbilisi’s past. Many of the buildings have been meticulously restored, their intricately carved wooden verandahs overhanging the once-again-colourful houses beneath, while the city’s famous sulphur baths, or abanotubani , continue to invigorate visitors today, centuries after the restorative hot springs were discovered.

Behind the Old Town, Narikala Fortress has crowned the settlement since the 4th century. These days it’s accessible by cable car and offers sweeping views across Tbilisi including the undulating mesh-metalwork Bridge of Peace  (2010), commemorating the end of the war with Russia. Just to the west of the fortress, the dramatic, Soviet-era Kartlis Deda (Mother Georgia) monument surveys the city with both benevolence and strength; a bowl of wine to welcome friends in one hand and a sword to fight enemies in the other.

A local’s guide to Tbilisi, Georgia

Incredible ancient monasteries and cathedrals 

It’s almost impossible to visit Georgia and escape the deep reverence for its ancient monasteries and cathedrals. Although the churches may seem similar, each is uniquely beautiful and historically significant in its own right. U nesco-anointed Gelati Monastery in Kutaisi , for example, was built during the country’s Golden Age in the 12th century and was a thriving centre of academia during this time. Its founder, King David the Builder (so called for his aims to unite eastern and western Georgia), was also laid to rest here, and the church is under continuing renovations to faithfully preserve it.

By contrast, Bagrati Cathedral has been restored in a far more arresting fashion. Also in Kutaisi, its dome was badly damaged during a 17th century Ottoman invasion, but it didn’t begin renovations until 2010, when Italian architect Andrea Bruno ambitiously rebuilt sections that had been completely destroyed using modern materials such as polished steel and glass. In spite of its modernity, the result is visually stunning yet sensitive. But, while the forward-thinking project won the architect several international prizes, it ultimately cost the church its Unesco status.

But not all of the most beautiful holy sites are cathedral-sized – modest Motsameta Monastery is less imposing, but the sacred relics of two canonised brothers kept here still inspire the congregation to worship today, while its spectacular location overlooking a gorge amidst a rich green forest draws visitors from afar.

Ancient history at Uplistsikhe

On a windy hill close to Gori in the country’s east are the fascinating remains of one of the most important pagan settlements in Georgia. Dating to the 7th century BCE, the warren of caves which made up the city of Uplistsikhe once numbered 700, but only around 250 remain.  Though paganism died out when Christianity was adopted in the 4th century, Uplistsikhe was inhabited until the 1300s, and the settlement continued to thrive in its strategic position on the Silk Road trading route.

Today you can wander the dusty, rocky streets at the complex to look back through almost two millennia and see traces of daily life: an apothecary with dozens of individual recesses carved into the rock to display and store medicinal items, a theatre for entertainment and rituals, pagan temples for worshipping, a grand hall for welcoming noble visitors, and even a wine-pressing station. More unsettling is the hole in the main street, a window down to the jail where prisoners were kept as a warning to those who passed by.

The wonders of Georgian wine

Winemaking is a part of Georgia’s national psyche and, with evidence of the craft dating back 8000 years, it’s not hard to understand why. Georgians are deeply proud to still be using traditional methods to create their vintages: here, the grapes are pressed and the whole lot, including seeds, skin and stems, is transferred to large clay pots called qvevri , and placed underground for several months to ferment. The process results in a more ‘natural’ flavour, and wines with a much deeper colour. If you are a wine drinker, there is no shortage of places to sample a few different varieties.

Winery Khareba , in the eastern Kakheti region, produces both European-style and  qvevri wines using Georgian grape varieties. The sprawling hillside winery is set in stunning landscaped grounds, and wines are aged and stored in the perfect conditions afforded by a Soviet-era tunnel carved into the mountain.

Iago’s Winery in Mtskheta is a much smaller, family-run affair, producing a limited number of wines from Chinuri grapes grown in Iago’s own vineyard. Wine tours are an intimate experience here, with tastings served alongside delicious Georgian food in a homely setting.

And if you’re feeling brave, sample some chacha , the lively spirit distilled from the pulp remaining from grape fermentation. Go easy though – homemade varieties can be up to 65% proof. Gaumarjos (cheers)!

The Georgian capital by night: the best bars and clubs in Tbilisi

Comforting cuisine

Come to Georgia hungry – the food here is unashamedly comforting, and meals are hearty, social occasions, with dishes traditionally served as large sharing plates. Spicy stews of lamb, beef or chicken line up with khinkali (spicy dumplings filled with meat or potato and steaming broth), fresh salads, smoked cheeses and vegetable dishes such as pkhali ( crushed aubergine, walnut and garlic paste).

While each region has its own specialities, there are some ubiquitous dishes that feature on menus across the land, such as the khachapuri . Essentially a flat, bread-like pie stuffed with molten cheese, this dish has several regional variations, which should all be sampled for research purposes, and then swiftly followed by a nap.

And for a not-too-sweet treat to accompany an after-dinner coffee, try a piece of churchkhela . Made from dipping a string of walnuts into a caramel-like grape paste and strung up to dry out, these colourful confections can be seen hanging at stalls all across Georgia.

Happily, you'll find restaurants serving excellent Georgian cuisine countrywide, but for a truly authentic taste, head to  Barbarestan in Tbilisi: their menu has been created using traditional recipes from a 19th-century cookbook.

Flavours of the Caucasus: a taste of Georgian cuisine

Batumi’s coastal charms

Shimmering on the Black Sea coast is Batumi , whose laid-back atmosphere lends itself perfectly to a relaxing seaside soujourn. Batumi Boulevard , a 7km-long, tree-lined pedestrian stretch right behind the beach, has landscaped gardens, sculptures, fountains and cafes, and is ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Each day, locals and visitors gather at the northernmost end of the boulevard to watch the moving sculpture Man and Woman , by Tamara Kvesitadze, in action. Also known as Ali & Nino  after the tragic characters in a romance novel of the same name, the 7-metre-tall figures rotate and pass through each other, representing their separation following a Soviet invasion.

Meanwhile, Batumi's architecture is a point of difference to its capital cousin, Tbilisi: the style here is eclectic, ranging from the restored belle époque buildings of Evropas Moedani (Europe Square) to the soaring Batumi Tower (complete with a Ferris wheel halfway up the building), via former Soviet buildings which have been given a Gaudi-inspired facelift. Fun, gaudy and in the midst of a development boom, Batumi is one to watch.

Make it happen

Wizz Air offers direct flights from London Luton to Kutaisi, while Georgian Airways flies direct from London Gatwick to Tbilisi. Other airlines such as airBaltic and Turkish Airlines offer connections from other European cities via Rīga and Istanbul respectively.

Article first published in August 2018, and last updated in December 2019

Gemma Graham travelled to Georgia with support from Travel The Unknown and the Georgian National Tourism Administration . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

This article was first published August 2018 and updated December 2019

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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!

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5 reasons to visit Georgia 

1. You’ll have the ski slopes all to yourself

When it comes to winter sports, Georgia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. A brilliant choice of resorts boast quiet and unspoilt slopes, with far fewer crowds than more obvious spots such as the Alps. Goderdzi is an ideal destination for beginners, while the untouched powders of Bakhmaro and off-the-beaten track slopes of Mestia draw in experienced skiers. A good all-rounder is Gudauri; as well as being the most established resort, it caters to both beginners and more experienced skiers looking to go off-piste.

Bakuriani, a resort on the northern slope of the Trialeti Range, is another highlight – but you’d better book quickly if you want to beat the crowds to these slopes, as alongside Gudauri, Bakuriani will be hitting the global stage in 2023 as host of the Freestyle Ski and Snowboard World Championships. It’ll be the first time in the history of the International Ski Federation that Georgia will host this event, but considering it’s a country composed of 70 per cent mountains, hosting the competition makes perfect sense. Start planning your visit now to get there before the pros do.

2. The hiking trails are incredible

If you’re more comfortable in walking boots than skis, Georgia’s magnificent Caucasus mountain range should be your destination of choice. It’s the site of Europe’s highest peak, Mount Elbrus, but there are plenty of trails for those interested in gentle hikes rather than grappling hooks. Make base camp in Kazbegi; just two and a half hours from Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, it’s beautifully green with easy access to some breathtaking trails. In more remote regions such as Racha, Tusheti and Svaneti, you’ll find pristine peaks, pretty lakes and forest trails that lead to hidden valleys. Make the most of all this natural beauty, as well as the hot springs that flow down from the mountains, by checking into one of the area’s smart resorts: Borjomi, Sairme or Tskaltubo each offer spa treatments, spectacular surroundings and the ultimate in escapism. For an immersive experience, book into one of the area’s eco-friendly boutique mountain chalets.

3. Drinking wine is officially a cultural pursuit

After all that walking, you’ll deserve a glass of wine – and as luck would have it, you’re in one of the oldest wine regions in the world. Georgia is considered to be the ‘cradle of wine’, with archaeologists tracing the oldest known wine-making traditions back to the South Caucasus more than 8,000 years. Around 6,000 BC, it was the Georgian people of this region who discovered that burying grape juice underground for months, or years in some cases, would turn it into wine. Now, the method of making wine in a qvevri (the earthenware vessel used to bury and age the wine) is having a renaissance, and Georgia exports wine all around the world – but it tastes all the sweeter sipped in the vineyard where it was made.

Georgian vineyard

Kakheti’s Alazani Valley is one of the best spots, where the colours of the landscape shift with the day’s changing light. Plus, you can count drinking wine here as a cultural endeavour – the traditional qvevri method joined UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013. Check into the nearby Tsinandali Estate ; the former home of Georgian writer, poet, aristocrat, and wine collector Prince Aleksandre Chavchavadze, it’s today been transformed into a splendid Radisson Hotel with opulent suites, scenic gardens and a wine list that’s even better than you’d expect.

Traditional qvevri

4. It’s heaven for history lovers

Beyond the heritage of Georgia’s viniculture, its historical sites are not to be missed. Given the relatively low tourist footfall, the majority of the country’s landmarks are well-preserved, allowing a rare and immersive glimpse into the past. Head to the Kakheti region to discover the monastery of David Gareji, a complex hewn into the rock of the mountainside and completed between the 6th and 9th centuries AD, or to the Imereti region to find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the medieval Gelati monastery; founded in 1106, it’s considered one of the most important centres of culture in ancient Georgia.

Kakheti region.

For a genuinely transportative stay, book a stay in Mtskheta, Georgia’s most ancient city. The first capital of the country remains its spiritual heart today – home to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a beautiful example of medieval Georgian Christian architecture, and the turreted, castle-like Jvari and Samtavro monasteries.

Jvari Monastery

5. Tbilisi is the next big thing on Europe’s creative scene

From the first capital to the current one; a visit to Georgia is incomplete without a stay in Tbilisi , one of Europe’s most exciting emerging creative hubs. The city’s storied past is apparent in the very architecture, with intricately-decorated art nouveau buildings, modernist designs, and old Orthodox churches all together in a labyrinthine jumble that couldn’t be more inviting to curious travellers. Buzzing with restaurant openings, independent galleries, and boutiques filled with unique finds, the city is rapidly becoming one to watch. Go now, before everyone else catches on.

Georgia is currently on the non-red travel list for the UK.

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Reason Why Everyone Should Visit Atlanta at Least Once

Before it was referred to as “Hotlanta” or “The Dirty Dirty,” Atlanta was known as the “City That’s Too Busy to Hate.” With its eclectic dining scene , posh shopping districts and rich history, it’s no wonder the city is one of the most popular destinations in the southeast. From its southern charm to its dynamic culture, here are ten reasons why you should visit Atlanta at least once.

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Georgia Aquarium

First opened in 2005, The Georgia Aquarium houses more than 100,000 aquatic animals and represents thousands of species. Located downtown Atlanta, the aquarium held the title of largest aquarium in the world until as recently 2012. Some of its visitors’ favorite aquatic species are the whale sharks, beluga whales, California sea lions, bottlenose dolphins and manta rays. With extraordinary galleries, exciting shows and creative interactive sea exhibits, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit.

Coca-Cola is not just a soda to the city of Atlanta, it warrants a museum. Founded in 1990 and originally located in Underground Atlanta – an underground shopping attraction – The World of Coca-Cola is a museum showcasing the history of the Coca Cola Company. Just blocks away from Centennial Olympic Park and the Georgia Aquarium, visitors get to taste flavors from around the world, watch how Coke is bottled and enter the vault, where the secret formula is held.

Centennial Olympic Park

Atlanta is a part of Olympic history. Built as a gathering spot for visitors and residents to enjoy during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park is a main attraction in downtown Atlanta. The 21-acre park is still is a popular place for many of the city’s festivals, concerts and special events. The park features beautiful fountains and sprawling grass areas and several hotels surrounding the park have captivating views of the park.

One of the oldest news networks in the world, CNN Center offers guided walking tours and exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the world headquarters. The tours allows for a more in-depth look at how a live broadcast is produced and sent to viewers.

Atlanta has a unique and eclectic dining scene. From southern favorites such as fried chicken to fried tofu, a dish that the city’s not particularly not known for, Atlanta boasts exceptional cuisine, world-renowned chefs and has a robust cocktail culture. Locals love Krog Street Market which features sixteen food and beverage spots. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian or French fare, Mediterranean or Vietnamese, Atlanta offers visitors and its residents world-class cuisine.

Founded in 1837, Atlanta became a major railroad hub and center for commerce and transportation throughout the south. Though a Confederate stronghold, in 1864 General William T. Sherman and his Union army captured the city, eventually paving the way to victory in the civil war. The general ordered the burning of Atlanta and launched the “March to the Sea.” After the fire, Atlanta rebuilt itself to become a major hub of the civil rights movement. Today, Atlanta is the largest metropolis in the deep south. You can discover Atlanta’s rich history through historic landmarks including, the King Center and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

From rock to hip-hop, the Atlanta music scene is diverse and legendary. The iconic Atlanta music scene gave us OutKast, Jermaine Dupri, T.I and countless others. Not to be outdone by hip-hop, rock and country music have been thriving in the city for decades too. The culture hub is also home to some of the best music festivals featuring major artists, including its largest, Midtown Music Fest. The Atlanta music culture has also paved the way for the Golden Globe-winning television show, Atlanta.

From international art exhibits to boundary-pushing street art, the art scene in Atlanta is not to be missed. Atlanta boasts some of the best art galleries, art festivals, murals and emerging community shows in the southeast.

Neighborhoods

Atlanta’s neighborhoods are historic and beautiful. Explore the many hidden gems Atlanta has to offer in its neighborhoods, including parks, gardens, historic cemeteries, restaurants and shops. Grant Park boasts historic real estate. Walk the BestLine , a community-based project that connects 45 different neighborhoods, to see cutting-edge street art in historic Old Fourth Ward. Don’t forget to walk the colorful streets of midtown to check out Piedmont Park.

Top Destination For Movies and Film

Sometimes referred to as the “Hollywood of the south,” Atlanta is Hollywood’s favorite new location. The Hunger Games, Walking Dead, Netflix’s latest sensation Stranger Things, the CW’s Dynasty, and the Vampire Diaries are just a few of the films and television shows filmed in Georgia’s capital and the surrounding neighborhoods. There are several Atlanta film tours visitors can check out to walk in the shoes of their favorite stars.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Georgia Travel Guide: Plan Your Visit To Georgia

The beautiful country of Georgia nestled in the South Caucasus region of Eastern Europe, right on the cusp of Asia, is one of the most interesting, dynamic and fascinating places to visit in the entire world. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, hospitable people, great food and a wine culture that dates back more than 8,000 years, this Georgia travel guide is meant to help you plan the best trip possible to this incredible nation.

Though interest in international travel to Georgia has been increasing in the past few years, it is still considered to be a relatively off-path destination. And despite its newfound popularity amongst “western” tourists, travelling to Georgia does pose some challenges not found elsewhere in Europe.

Having spent more than a year travelling and living in Georgia ourselves, we have experienced the best of what this beautiful country has to offer and hope that this guide to Georgia can assist you in planning an unforgettable trip to this underrated nation.

Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our  privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Planning a Georgia Route

Though deceptively small at first glance, Georgia has a lot to offer visitors beyond the bustling streets of Tbilisi and the alpine vibes of Kazbegi. In fact, you could easily spend months and months travelling here and still have countless places left to visit.

Because it offers everything from beautiful mountain villages to thriving metropolises to a shining seaside to sprawling vineyards, planning out the perfect itinerary through Georgia can prove a difficult task, especially if you only have a limited amount of time to visit.

There is just so much to see and do in Georgia that it can prove impossible to try to pack it into one trip, but luckily, we have travelled extensively throughout the country and know how to best plan a trip here.

So if you planning a trip to Georgia either as a stand-alone destination or as part of a longer journey through neighbouring Armenia and Azerbaijan, then make sure to have a look at the detailed itineraries below to ensure that you plan out the best route possible and don’t miss a thing!

The Ultimate Georgia Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 weeks

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Places to Visit in Georgia

Georgia can seem like a small country and, especially when compared to its neighbours of Russia and Turkey, it is, relatively, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in amazing places to visit and things to see!

Quite the contrary, actually, as Georgia is chock full of everything from charming mountain villages, romantic hill towns, bustling cosmopolitan cities, seaside resorts and much, much more.

There is so much ecological and cultural diversity in Georgia that from one region to the next you are sure to discover something new and exciting. From regional cuisine and customs to vastly differing climate zones, there are countless incredible places to visit in Georgia that will give you a holistic view of this seemingly small nation.

If you’re wondering where to go in Georgia, then make sure to browse the articles below to help kick start your Georgia trip planning.

How to Get from Tbilisi to Borjomi & Things To Do in Borjomi

What to do in Kutaisi, Georgia: A 2 or 3 Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Tbilisi Itinerary

Tbilisi to Sighnaghi & Kakheti Region: A 1 or 2 Day Itinerary

Tbilisi to Kazbegi: How To Get There & Things To Do

Tbilisi to Mtskheta Day Trip: How to Get There & Things to Do

Best Time to Visit Georgia

Georgia can gloriously be a year-round destination to travel to so figuring out the best time to visit Georgia for you can really just depend on your travel preferences and what you hope to do while in the country. Georgia experiences relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, so there isn’t much of a bad time to visit, however, there are certainly some times that are better than others.

We’ll start with the most popular season to visit — summer. Summer in Georgia is the height of the tourist season and though the country doesn’t see nearly as many international tourists as other European destinations, it can still mean that crowds in major attractions and tourist hotspots will be at their peak.

Summer in Georgia is also HOT. How hot it is generally depends on where you happen to be, but unless you’re high up in the Caucasus, don’t expect the mercury to dip much below 30°C (86°F) during the day.

In Tbilisi, it can get much hotter, with it not unusual for temperatures to soar past 40°C (104°F) some days. While in the capital and in other large cities like Batumi, you can generally expect your accommodation to have air conditioning, don’t plan on it if you’re visiting somewhere more rural or staying in some of the smaller guesthouses.

The temperatures in the mountains can be a full 10°C cooler (about 18°F cooler) so it will be no surprise that this is where many city dwellers flock to in the warmer months.

Conversely, winters in Georgia (in the lowlands, at least) tend to be relatively mild, with high temperatures rarely going below freezing even in the coldest months of January and February. They also can be fairly bright and sunny and as Georgia doesn’t observe daylight savings time, days are decidedly longer in the winter than elsewhere in Europe.

Georgia is also home to a handful of ski resorts and it can be an excellent place to hit the slopes on a budget if that is something that tickles your fancy. The Gudauri resort lies only a short way outside of Tbilisi, Bakuriani is located just north of the spa town of Borjomi and even the Svaneti town of Mestia has slopes to enjoy.

Spring can bring very mild temperatures, with some lovely days in April and May hovering around 20°C (68°F) and warming up as May progresses. March can be a mixed bag, as we’ve experienced both snowfall and 20°C+ weather all within a week of each other in Tbilisi.

If you’re looking for the absolute perfect time to visit Georgia, then set your sights on the autumn months of September and October (November can be pretty pleasant, as well). Not only is this when the heat of summer dissipates — expect high temperatures to hover around 22-25°C (72-77°F) — this is also the time for wine harvest, or rtveli , in Georgia! So if you’re interested in visiting Georgia for its 8,000-year-old wine tradition, then come in September or October.

Really, it doesn’t matter when you choose to visit Georgia, but if you were to choose the absolute perfect season, then make it autumn.

Cost of Travelling to Georgia

If you’re on the hunt for a truly affordable destination to visit as a Western traveller, then Georgia is a great destination. Compared to the vast majority of Europe — even in more affordable areas like the Balkans and Central Europe — prices in Georgia are significantly discounted and a small amount of money can get you quite a long way in this country.

So if you’re a budget traveller, then you’re sure to love visiting Georgia. And even if you’re not all that concerned about your travel budget, you are sure to be thrilled by what your money can buy you in Georgia.

Georgia has countless ways to save money and some of these options are actually, in my opinion, preferable to some more expensive options. I’m speaking, specifically, to staying in family-run guesthouses rather than in a more expensive hotel. These guesthouses are scattered throughout Georgia and are where you will really get to experience the true sense of the country’s famous hospitality.

Often, guesthouses will also include an option for breakfast and dinner, saving you money even further while getting to experience the local cuisine.

Generally, you can expect prices in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi to be marginally higher than elsewhere in the country, but this isn’t normally significant if you know where to visit and what to look for. After having lived in Tbilisi, we are well-versed on the costs of the city and find it to be incredibly affordable, especially when compared to many other European destinations.

Read More: Is Georgia Expensive? A Georgia Trip Cost Guide

Georgian Cuisine

Look, let’s be real — you would be completely forgiven if you want to visit Georgia simply to dine on the country’s incredible cuisine. Georgian food is gaining in popularity worldwide, with dishes like cheesy khachapuri and soupy khinkali dumplings taking over Instagram feeds.

However, there is far more to this complex and flavourful culinary tradition to explore that you would be forgiven for leaving Georgia with your waistbands feeling a fair bit tighter.

What is wonderful about Georgia is that, contrary to a lot of other Eastern European countries, there are plentiful vegetarian options and vegetables play a huge role in traditional cuisine. In fact, it is actually quite an easy country to travel in if you are a vegetarian or a vegan.

There are always vegetarian options available due to the high proportion of fasting days on the Georgian Orthodox calendar (days where the devout will not eat meat), almost every major meat-forward dish also includes a mushroom version, as well!

Along with the flavourful and diverse cuisine, it would be remiss if I didn’t mention wine. Georgia claims to be the birthplace of wine, with archaeological evidence dating to wine production more than 8,000 years ago. And Georgian wine is really something special. With countless endemic grape varieties, wine is traditionally fermented with full skin contact (white wine, too!) in subterranean clay pots called qvevri .

Many families make their own wine and, along with that, they also use the by-product of grapes to produce the local spirit — Chacha! This is Georgia’s answer to Italian grappa and it is incredibly potent — some homemade varieties can have alcohol contents that exceed 60%!

All in all, sampling Georgian food and drink is one of the absolute highlights of travelling to this incredible nation. And if you want to learn more about what dishes to expect, make sure to browse the article below!

Read More: Georgian Cuisine Guide: Must-Try Dishes & Food in Georgia

Transportation in Georgia

If there is an aspect of travelling in this country that can be a bit confusing and hard to navigate, it’s transportation. Things in Georgia are a little bit different from the rest of Europe and it can be a bit daunting if you’re not familiar with it.

Luckily, travelling around Georgia doesn’t have to be too tricky, especially if you’re travelling between well-trafficked areas as there tend to be numerous different options available for you. The other thing that is great about travelling in Georgia is that the public transport network, though quite different from other European countries, is extensive and as reliable as can be expected in Georgia.

If you’re travelling on a budget or want a local experience, then your best bet for getting around Georgia is via marshrutka, or minibuses, that offer connections throughout the country.

Keep in mind that the vast majority of marshrutkas in Georgia don’t operate on a tight timetable per se and tend only to leave the station when they are full (or nearly so). They are affordable but can be cramped, hot and a bit uncomfortable, especially in the warmer months.

It is also quite common to travel between cities by shared taxi, another affordable option, though this tends to be a bit more expensive than a marshrutka. You agree on the price of a car before your journey and then you will wait until you get enough travellers to fill the car before leaving.

If your budget is a bit higher, many people choose to hire a private driver for their trips around Georgia. This is a very common practice and there are countless drivers offering their services all over the country. You can either hire a driver for the entirety of your trip, or you can opt to just get a driver for the occasional day trip and get around using a mix of public transit and this.

There is a rail network in Georgia, but there aren’t too many routes and it’s not an option for travelling across the majority of the country.

Of course, you could always opt to hire a car and drive yourself around Georgia. It’s worth noting that Georgian drivers can be erratic and road conditions aren’t always the best, especially the more rural you venture, however, plenty of visitors take this option.

If you are interested in hiring a car in Georgia, have a look at Localrent  which connects private individuals renting a car with drivers.

Finally, there are city taxis. Taxis in Georgia are quite affordable, in fact, a taxi ride across Tbilisi typically costs about the same as a bus ride in London .

However, it is worth pointing out that it’s not recommended to hail a taxi from the street. There are no meters in Georgian cabs and you must agree upon a price before getting into the taxi. To avoid potential language barriers or overpaying, we recommend using the Bolt app to get around the major urban areas.

If you want to know more about getting around Georgian then make sure to browse the article below, outlining how to undertake some of the most popular routes in Georgia!

How to Travel from Tbilisi to Batumi by Bus, Train, Taxi or Flight

How To Get From Kutaisi to Tbilisi by Bus, Train or Taxi

How to Travel from Kutaisi to Batumi by Bus, Train, Taxi or Car

How to Travel to Mestia from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi & Batumi

Armenia to Georgia: Gyumri to Tbilisi & Dilijan to Tbilisi

Georgia to Azerbaijan: Tbilisi to Baku & Sheki to Tbilisi

Accommodation in Georgia

From budget-friendly dorm rooms to luxury hotels, Georgia has it all.

If you are travelling on a tight budget or are a backpacker, you will find that Georgia doesn’t have too much to offer in the name of the traditional backpacker hostels, especially outside of the main cities. There are, of course, hostel options in Tbilisi and the cities of Batumi and Kutaisi but, outside of these urban areas, choices can be few and far between.

For those on a budget, family-run guesthouses are really the place to be when travelling in Georgia. This is where you can really get to know the famous Georgian hospitality while getting stuffed to the gills with chacha, homemade wine and freshly made meals while having an affordable place to sleep for the night.

There are countless guesthouses located all throughout Georgia and you can book them through platforms like Booking.com very easily.

Airbnb is also a decent option in the bigger cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, where there are lots of options available on the platform, however, it can be very slim pickings outside of these areas.

If you’re the kind of traveller who tends to rely heavily on Airbnb for your accommodation needs, do keep this in mind if you plan to spend a good amount of time outside of Batumi or Tbilisi.

And finally, you are going to find hotels in most major cities and tourist attractions in the country and these can vary in quality. In places that attract a number of tourists, you will have lots of different options that can suit an array of budgets, however, the options can dwindle the more rural you get.

All in all, the most consistent (and one of the most affordable) accommodation option in Georgia is a family-run guesthouse, and this is also one of the best options if you really want a great insight into the local culture!

Read More: Where to Stay in Tbilisi, Georgia: Best Areas, Hotels & Hostels

Language in Georgia

One thing that can prove difficult when it comes to travelling in Georgia is the language barrier, especially if you only speak English. Outside of Tbilisi and, to a lesser extent, Batumi, English isn’t widely spoken in Georgia and communication can prove quite difficult.

The Georgian language is a unique language that uses its own alphabet and isn’t particularly easy for foreigners to understand, let alone read. Russian is widely spoken by the older generation, however, those under around the age of 30 are far more likely to have learned English as a second language, if they will have learned a second language at all.

The good thing to note is that will almost always encounter English descriptions on things, even if the language isn’t spoken at a high level. In fact, having travelled in Georgia extensively and having lived in the country for over a year, we have rarely encountered a restaurant menu that didn’t have an English option.

Georgians are likely to be friendly and accommodating if there is a language barrier, however, it is always a good idea to learn a few words in the local language just to be respectful. Gamarjoba means “hello,” madloba means “thank you” and bodishi means “sorry.” Include these into your lexicon and you should be just fine when travelling in Georgia!

Religion in Georgia

Georgia is a deeply Orthodox country and was, in fact, only the second country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion — neighbouring Armenia being the first. So it can be said that Georgia has a vast Christian tradition that dates back centuries.

Because of how Christian Georgia is in all of history, there are countless religious sites to visit in Georgia. Beautiful churches and monasteries are scattered throughout the country and holidays like Orthodox Easter and Christmas are truly events to be seen.

While you won’t see things like businesses being affected in Georgia due to religious reasons (things are very much open here on Sundays), there is a very conservatively religious mindset in Georgia that is worth being aware of. For instance, it can be difficult for open LGBTQ+ travellers in Georgia as there is, unfortunately, quite a bit of homophobic sentiment coming from the Church, and that holds a lot of weight in Georgian society.

It is also worth knowing that if you plan to visit some of the many churches in Georgia (and it really can be unavoidable), then please note that you do need to be conservatively dressed in order to enter.

Both men and women need to make sure that their knees are covered (no shorts or shorter skirts!) and women must also cover their heads with a scarf. Many churches will provide scarves at the entrance, but I recommend keeping one in your day pack just to be a bit more sanitary.

All in all, Georgia is a very Christian nation with countless beautiful churches and monasteries throughout the country.

Travelling in Georgia is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in Europe. Providing challenges not found elsewhere on the continent, this Georgia travel guide is meant to help you plan the best trip possible to this incredible country.

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Countries to visit that love American tourists

Posted: March 15, 2024 | Last updated: March 15, 2024

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The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu

An unusual outbreak of the disease has spread to dairy herds in multiple u.s. states..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Sabrina Tavernise, and this is “The Daily.”

[MUSIC PLAYING]

The outbreak of bird flu that is tearing through the nation’s poultry farms is the worst in US history. But scientists say it’s now starting to spread into places and species it’s never been before.

Today, my colleague, Emily Anthes, explains.

It’s Monday, April 22.

Emily, welcome back to the show.

Thanks for having me. Happy to be here.

So, Emily, we’ve been talking here on “The Daily” about prices of things and how they’ve gotten so high, mostly in the context of inflation episodes. And one of the items that keeps coming up is eggs. Egg prices were through the roof last year, and we learned it was related to this. Avian flu has been surging in the United States. You’ve been covering this. Tell us what’s happening.

Yes, so I have been covering this virus for the last few years. And the bird flu is absolutely tearing through poultry flocks, and that is affecting egg prices. That’s a concern for everyone, for me and for my family. But when it comes to scientists, egg prices are pretty low on their list of concerns. Because they see this bird flu virus behaving differently than previous versions have. And they’re getting nervous, in particular, about the fact that this virus is reaching places and species where it’s never been before.

OK, so bird flu, though, isn’t new. I mean I remember hearing about cases in Asia in the ‘90s. Remind us how it began.

Bird flu refers to a bunch of different viruses that are adapted to spread best in birds. Wild water birds, in particular, are known for carrying these viruses. And flu viruses are famous for also being shapeshifters. So they’re constantly swapping genes around and evolving into new strains. And as you mentioned back in the ‘90s, a new version of bird flu, a virus known as H5N1, emerged in Asia. And it has been spreading on and off around the world since then, causing periodic outbreaks.

And how are these outbreaks caused?

So wild birds are the reservoir for the virus, which means they carry it in their bodies with them around the world as they fly and travel and migrate. And most of the time, these wild birds, like ducks and geese, don’t even get very sick from this virus. But they shed it. So as they’re traveling over a poultry farm maybe, if they happen to go to the bathroom in a pond that the chickens on the farm are using or eat some of the feed that chickens on the farm are eating, they can leave the virus behind.

And the virus can get into chickens. In some cases, it causes mild illness. It’s what’s known as low pathogenic avian influenza. But sometimes the virus mutates and evolves, and it can become extremely contagious and extremely fatal in poultry.

OK, so the virus comes through wild birds, but gets into farms like this, as you’re describing. How have farms traditionally handled outbreaks, when they do happen?

Well, because this threat isn’t new, there is a pretty well-established playbook for containing outbreaks. It’s sometimes known as stamping out. And brutally, what it means is killing the birds. So the virus is so deadly in this highly pathogenic form that it’s sort of destined to kill all the birds on a farm anyway once it gets in. So the response has traditionally been to proactively depopulate or cull all the birds, so it doesn’t have a chance to spread.

So that’s pretty costly for farmers.

It is. Although the US has a program where it will reimburse farmers for their losses. And the way these reimbursements work is they will reimburse farmers only for the birds that are proactively culled, and not for those who die naturally from the virus. And the thinking behind that is it’s a way to incentivize farmers to report outbreaks early.

So, OK, lots of chickens are killed in a way to manage these outbreaks. So we know how to deal with them. But what about now? Tell me about this new strain.

So this new version of the virus, it emerged in 2020.

After the deadly outbreak of the novel coronavirus, authorities have now confirmed an outbreak of the H5N1 strain of influenza, a kind of bird flu.

And pretty quickly it became clear that a couple things set it apart.

A bald eagle found dead at Carvins Cove has tested positive for the highly contagious bird flu.

This virus, for whatever reason, seemed very good at infecting all sorts of wild birds that we don’t normally associate with bird flu.

[BIRD CRYING]

He was kind of stepping, and then falling over, and using its wing to right itself.

Things like eagles and condors and pelicans.

We just lost a parliament of owls in Minneapolis.

Yeah, a couple of high profile nests.

And also in the past, wild birds have not traditionally gotten very sick from this virus. And this version of the virus not only spread widely through the wild bird population, but it proved to be devastating.

The washing up along the East Coast of the country from Scotland down to Suffolk.

We were hearing about mass die-offs of seabirds in Europe by the hundreds and the thousands.

And the bodies of the dead dot the island wherever you look.

Wow. OK. So then as we know, this strain, like previous ones, makes its way from wild animals to farmed animals, namely to chickens. But it’s even more deadly.

Absolutely. And in fact, it has already caused the worst bird flu outbreak in US history. So more than 90 million birds in the US have died as a result of this virus.

90 million birds.

Yes, and I should be clear that represents two things. So some of those birds are birds who naturally got infected and died from the virus. But the vast majority of them are birds that were proactively culled. What it adds up to is, is 90 million farmed birds in the US have died since this virus emerged. And it’s not just a chicken problem. Another thing that has been weird about this virus is it has jumped into other kinds of farms. It is the first time we’ve seen a bird flu virus jump into US livestock.

And it’s now been reported on a number of dairy farms across eight US states. And that’s just something that’s totally unprecedented.

So it’s showing up at Dairy farms now. You’re saying that bird flu has now spread to cows. How did that happen?

So we don’t know exactly how cows were first infected, but most scientists’ best guess is that maybe an infected wild bird that was migrating shed the virus into some cattle feed or a pasture or a pond, and cattle picked it up. The good news is they don’t seem to get nearly as sick as chickens do. They are generally making full recoveries on their own in a couple of weeks.

OK, so no mass culling of cows?

No, that doesn’t seem to be necessary at this point. But the bad news is that it’s starting to look like we’re seeing this virus spread from cow to cow. We don’t know exactly how that’s happening yet. But anytime you see cow-to-cow or mammal-to-mammal transmission, that’s a big concern.

And why is that exactly?

Well, there are a bunch of reasons. First, it could allow the outbreak to get much bigger, much faster, which might increase the risk to the food supply. And we might also expect it to increase the risk to farm workers, people who might be in contact with these sick cows.

Right now, the likelihood that a farmer who gets this virus passes it on is pretty low. But any time you see mammal-to-mammal transmission, it increases the chance that the virus will adapt and possibly, maybe one day get good at spreading between humans. To be clear, that’s not something that there’s any evidence happening in cows right now. But the fact that there’s any cow-to-cow transmission happening at all is enough to have scientists a bit concerned.

And then if we think more expansively beyond what’s happening on farms, there’s another big danger lurking out there. And that’s what happens when this virus gets into wild animals, vast populations that we can’t control.

We’ll be right back.

So, Emily, you said that another threat was the threat of flu in wild animal populations. Clearly, of course, it’s already in wild birds. Where else has it gone?

Well, the reason it’s become such a threat is because of how widespread it’s become in wild birds. So they keep reintroducing it to wild animal populations pretty much anywhere they go. So we’ve seen the virus repeatedly pop up in all sorts of animals that you might figure would eat a wild bird, so foxes, bobcats, bears. We actually saw it in a polar bear, raccoons. So a lot of carnivores and scavengers.

The thinking is that these animals might stumble across a sick or dead bird, eat it, and contract the virus that way. But we’re also seeing it show up in some more surprising places, too. We’ve seen the virus in a bottle-nosed dolphin, of all places.

And most devastatingly, we’ve seen enormous outbreaks in other sorts of marine mammals, especially sea lions and seals.

So elephant seals, in particular in South America, were just devastated by this virus last fall. My colleague Apoorva Mandavilli and I were talking to some scientists in South America who described to us what they called a scene from hell, of walking out onto a beach in Argentina that is normally crowded with chaotic, living, breathing, breeding, elephant seals — and the beach just being covered by carcass, after carcass, after carcass.

Mostly carcasses of young newborn pups. The virus seemed to have a mortality rate of 95 percent in these elephant seal pups, and they estimated that it might have killed more than 17,000 of the pups that were born last year. So almost the entire new generation of this colony. These are scientists that have studied these seals for decades. And they said they’ve never seen anything like it before.

And why is it so far reaching, Emily? I mean, what explains these mass die-offs?

There are probably a few explanations. One is just how much virus is out there in the environment being shed by wild birds into water and onto beaches. These are also places that viruses like this haven’t been before. So it’s reaching elephant seals and sea lions in South America that have no prior immunity.

There’s also the fact that these particular species, these sea lions and seals, tend to breed in these huge colonies all crowded together on beaches. And so what that means is if a virus makes its way into the colony, it’s very conducive conditions for it to spread. And scientists think that that’s actually what’s happening now. That it’s not just that all these seals are picking up the virus from individual birds, but that they’re actually passing it to each other.

So basically, this virus is spreading to places it’s never been before, kind of virgin snow territory, where animals just don’t have the immunity against it. And once it gets into a population packed on a beach, say, of elephant seals, it’s just like a knife through butter.

Absolutely. And an even more extreme example of that is what we’re starting to see happen in Antarctica, where there’s never been a bird flu outbreak before until last fall, for the first time, this virus reached the Antarctic mainland. And we are now seeing the virus move through colonies of not only seabirds and seals, but penguin colonies, which have not been exposed to these viruses before.

And it’s too soon to say what the toll will be. But penguins also, of course, are known for breeding in these large colonies.

Probably. don’t have many immune defenses against this virus, and of course, are facing all these other environmental threats. And so there’s a lot of fear that you add on the stress of a bird flu virus, and it could just be a tipping point for penguins.

Emily, at this point, I’m kind of wondering why more people aren’t talking about this. I mean, I didn’t know any of this before having this conversation with you, and it feels pretty worrying.

Well, a lot of experts and scientists are talking about this with rising alarm and in terms that are quite stark. They’re talking about the virus spreading through wild animal populations so quickly and so ferociously that they’re calling it an ecological disaster.

But that’s a disaster that sometimes seems distant from us, both geographically, we’re talking about things that are happening maybe at the tip of Argentina or in Antarctica. And also from our concerns of our everyday lives, what’s happening in Penguins might not seem like it has a lot to do with the price of a carton of eggs at the grocery store. But I think that we should be paying a lot of attention to how this virus is moving through animal populations, how quickly it’s moving through animal populations, and the opportunities that it is giving the virus to evolve into something that poses a much bigger threat to human health.

So the way it’s spreading in wild animals, even in remote places like Antarctica, that’s important to watch, at least in part because there’s a real danger to people here.

So we know that the virus can infect humans, and that generally it’s not very good at spreading between humans. But the concern all along has been that if this virus has more opportunities to spread between mammals, it will get better at spreading between them. And that seems to be what is happening in seals and sea lions. Scientists are already seeing evidence that the virus is adapting as it passes from marine mammal to marine mammal. And that could turn it into a virus that’s also better at spreading between people.

And if somebody walks out onto a beach and touches a dead sea lion, if their dog starts playing with a sea lion carcass, you could imagine that this virus could make its way out of marine mammals and into the human population. And if it’s this mammalian adapted version of the virus that makes its way out, that could be a bigger threat to human health.

So the sheer number of hosts that this disease has, the more opportunity it has to mutate, and the more chance it has to mutate in a way that would actually be dangerous for people.

Yes, and in particular, the more mammalian hosts. So that gives the virus many more opportunities to become a specialist in mammals instead of a specialist in birds, which is what it is right now.

Right. I like that, a specialist in mammals. So what can we do to contain this virus?

Well, scientists are exploring new options. There’s been a lot of discussion about whether we should start vaccinating chickens in the US. The government, USDA labs, have been testing some poultry vaccines. It’s probably scientifically feasible. There are challenges there, both in terms of logistics — just how would you go about vaccinating billions of chickens every year. There are also trade questions. Traditionally, a lot of countries have not been willing to accept poultry products from countries that vaccinate their poultry.

And there’s concern about whether the virus might spread undetected in flocks that are vaccinated. So as we saw with COVID, the vaccine can sometimes stop you from getting sick, but it doesn’t necessarily stop infection. And so countries are worried they might unknowingly import products that are harboring the virus.

And what about among wild animals? I mean, how do you even begin to get your head around that?

Yeah, I mean, thinking about vaccinating wild animals maybe makes vaccinating all the chickens in the US look easy. There has been some discussion of limited vaccination campaigns, but that’s not feasible on a global scale. So unfortunately, the bottom line is there isn’t a good way to stop spread in wild animals. We can try to protect some vulnerable populations, but we’re not going to stop the circulation of this virus.

So, Emily, we started this conversation with a kind of curiosity that “The Daily” had about the price of eggs. And then you explained the bird flu to us. And then somehow we ended up learning about an ecological disaster that’s unfolding all around us, and potentially the source of the next human pandemic. That is pretty scary.

It is scary, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by it. And I feel like I should take a step back and say none of this is inevitable. None of this is necessarily happening tomorrow. But this is why scientists are concerned and why they think it’s really important to keep a very close eye on what’s happening both on farms and off farms, as this virus spreads through all sorts of animal populations.

One thing that comes up again and again and again in my interviews with people who have been studying bird flu for decades, is how this virus never stops surprising them. And sometimes those are bad surprises, like these elephant seal die-offs, the incursions into dairy cattle. But there are some encouraging signs that have emerged recently. We’re starting to see some early evidence that some of the bird populations that survived early brushes with this virus might be developing some immunity. So that’s something that maybe could help slow the spread of this virus in animal populations.

We just don’t entirely know how this is going to play out. Flu is a very difficult, wily foe. And so that’s one reason scientists are trying to keep such a close, attentive eye on what’s happening.

Emily, thank you.

Thanks for having me.

Here’s what else you should know today.

On this vote, the yeas are 366 and the nays are 58. The bill is passed.

On Saturday, in four back-to-back votes, the House voted resoundingly to approve a long-stalled package of aid to Ukraine, Israel and other American allies, delivering a major victory to President Biden, who made aid to Ukraine one of his top priorities.

On this vote, the yeas are 385, and the no’s are 34 with one answering present. The bill is passed without objection.

The House passed the component parts of the $95 billion package, which included a bill that could result in a nationwide ban of TikTok.

On this vote, the yeas are 311 and the nays are 112. The bill is passed.

Oh, one voting present. I missed it, but thank you.

In a remarkable breach of custom, Democrats stepped in to supply the crucial votes to push the legislation past hard-line Republican opposition and bring it to the floor.

The House will be in order.

The Senate is expected to pass the legislation as early as Tuesday.

Today’s episode was produced by Rikki Novetsky, Nina Feldman, Eric Krupke, and Alex Stern. It was edited by Lisa Chow and Patricia Willens; contains original music by Marion Lozano, Dan Powell, Rowan Niemisto, and Sophia Lanman; and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Andrew Jacobs.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. See you tomorrow.

• April 24, 2024   •   32:18 Is $60 Billion Enough to Save Ukraine?
• April 23, 2024   •   30:30 A Salacious Conspiracy or Just 34 Pieces of Paper?
• April 22, 2024   •   24:30 The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu
• April 19, 2024   •   30:42 The Supreme Court Takes Up Homelessness
• April 18, 2024   •   30:07 The Opening Days of Trump’s First Criminal Trial
• April 17, 2024   •   24:52 Are ‘Forever Chemicals’ a Forever Problem?
• April 16, 2024   •   29:29 A.I.’s Original Sin
• April 15, 2024   •   24:07 Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel
• April 14, 2024   •   46:17 The Sunday Read: ‘What I Saw Working at The National Enquirer During Donald Trump’s Rise’
• April 12, 2024   •   34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
• April 11, 2024   •   28:39 The Staggering Success of Trump’s Trial Delay Tactics
• April 10, 2024   •   22:49 Trump’s Abortion Dilemma

Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise

Produced by Rikki Novetsky ,  Nina Feldman ,  Eric Krupke and Alex Stern

Edited by Lisa Chow and Patricia Willens

Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Dan Powell ,  Rowan Niemisto and Sophia Lanman

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

The outbreak of bird flu currently tearing through the nation’s poultry is the worst in U.S. history. Scientists say it is now spreading beyond farms into places and species it has never been before.

Emily Anthes, a science reporter for The Times, explains.

On today’s episode

Emily Anthes , a science reporter for The New York Times.

Background reading

Scientists have faulted the federal response to bird flu outbreaks on dairy farms .

Here’s what to know about the outbreak.

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We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Special thanks to Andrew Jacobs .

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

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