GEORGIA
TRAVEL GUIDE
Discover the enchanting allure of Georgia with our comprehensive Gerogia travel guide. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient charm of Tbilisi to the serene beauty of the Caucasus Mountains, explore the diverse experiences that await. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a culinary adventurer, our guide provides essential tips and insights to make your journey through Georgia unforgettable.
Enchanting Georgia Travel Guide: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures
Welcome to the Enchanting Georgia Travel Guide, your essential companion for exploring a hidden gem at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Georgia captivates with its ancient monasteries, dramatic Caucasus mountains, legendary wine culture, and warm hospitality, from the charming cobblestone streets of Tbilisi to the remote medieval villages of Svaneti. This guide covers eight top destinations, cultural experiences, and practical tips to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you’re hiking alpine trails or savoring khachapuri with centuries-old wine, let this guide inspire your adventure in Georgia.
How to Travel to Georgia
How to Get to & Around Georgia
Everything you need to know about arriving in the Caucasus gem and moving around its cities, mountains, and wine regions.
Travel & Transport
International Arrival
Tip: Fly into Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Batumi International Airport (BUS), or Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) – $600–1500 from North America, $100–400 from Europe. Kutaisi is the low-cost hub.
Why: Tbilisi is the main gateway with connections to Europe, Middle East, and Asia; Kutaisi serves Wizz Air and Ryanair.
How: Compare flights on Skyscanner ($0). Overland options: buses from Türkiye ($15–25), Armenia ($10–20), or Azerbaijan. Most nationalities enjoy 1-year visa-free entry.
Domestic Transport Options
Tip: Use marshrutkas (minivans $2–15), trains ($3–15), domestic flights ($20–60), taxis/Bolt ($2–10), or car rental ($25–45/day). GoTrip.ge for private drivers with custom stops.
Why: Marshrutkas reach every corner cheaply; trains are scenic and comfortable; private drivers offer flexibility in mountains.
How: Book trains via railway.ge. Use Bolt or Yandex Go in cities. Reserve GoTrip drivers online ($40–100/day). Carry small GEL notes for marshrutkas.
Need to Know
Essential facts to help you plan your trip to Georgia – from visa and currency to safety and connectivity.
Need to Know
Why Travel to Georgia
Tip: Georgia offers ancient monasteries, dramatic Caucasus mountains, and legendary wine culture.
Why: From Tbilisi’s charming old town to Svaneti’s UNESCO towers, Georgia blends rich heritage, stunning nature, and warm hospitality.
How: Explore churches and fortresses ($0–5), taste wine ($5–20), and hike alpine trails ($0–30). Book tours via Viator or GoTrip.ge ($15–50).
Do I Need a Visa
Tip: Over 100 nationalities get 1-year visa-free entry (subject to change). Others may need an e-Visa ($20).
Why: One of the most generous visa policies in the world – perfect for long stays.
How: Check eligibility on evisa.gov.ge ($0). Passport must be valid 6+ months. No registration required for stays under 1 year.
What is the Currency of Georgia
Tip: The currency is Georgian Lari (GEL). Budget travelers spend $20–40/day.
Why: Lari is used everywhere; cards accepted in cities, cash needed in villages.
How: Withdraw from ATMs ($0–2 fee). Carry small notes (1–20 GEL). Use Revolut/Wise ($0 fees) for best rates.
Is Georgia Cheap to Visit
Tip: Georgia is very affordable – meals ($3–7), guesthouses ($10–30/night), transport ($0.50–10).
Why: Low costs in regions like Kakheti, Imereti, and Adjara suit all budgets.
How: Stay in family guesthouses ($15–25). Eat at local khinkali spots ($3–5). Book via Booking.com or local Facebook groups.
Can I Drink the Tap Water
Tip: Tap water is safe in Tbilisi, Batumi, and most cities; use bottled water ($0.50–1) in remote villages.
Why: Urban supply is treated; mountain springs are pure but rural pipes may vary.
How: Refill reusable bottles at free public fountains in cities. Buy Borjomi mineral water ($0.70) for taste and minerals.
Can I Buy a SIM Card
Tip: Purchase a local SIM for data and calls ($5–15).
Why: Excellent 4G coverage even in mountains; essential for maps and translation.
How: Buy at airports or any shop ($5–15). Top up via apps ($0). Choose Magti, Geocell (Beeline), or Silknet – all offer tourist plans.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Georgia
Everything you need to know before you go – from visas and money to safety and transport.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Georgia
Visa and Documentation
Tip: Over 100 nationalities enjoy **1-year visa-free entry**. Passport must be valid 6+ months.
Why: One of the world’s most generous policies – perfect for long stays or digital nomads.
How: Check evisa.gov.ge ($0). No registration needed under 1 year. Carry digital copy on phone.
Currency and Payments
Tip: Use **Georgian Lari (GEL)** ($20–45/day). Cards widely accepted in cities; cash needed in villages.
Why: Small vendors, marshrutkas, and rural guesthouses only take cash.
How: Withdraw from Bank of Georgia/TBC ATMs ($0–2 fee). Carry small notes (5–20 GEL). Use Revolut/Wise ($0 fees).
Language and Communication
Tip: Learn “gamarjoba” (hello) and “madloba” (thank you). English common in Tbilisi & tourist areas.
Why: Basic Georgian earns huge smiles and often free treats from locals.
How: Use Google Translate offline ($0). Buy a local SIM ($5–15) for maps and Bolt/GoTrip bookings.
Safety and Dangers in Georgia
Tip: Very safe overall. Watch for pickpockets in Tbilisi markets and reckless drivers in mountains.
Why: Low violent crime but petty theft and road safety are the main concerns.
How: Use hotel safe ($0). Avoid unmarked taxis. Check gov.uk or travel.state.gov advisories ($0).
More Safety Tips for AsiaAccommodation Options
Tip: Stay in boutique hotels in Tbilisi ($30–100/night), family guesthouses in Svaneti ($15–35/night), or ski resorts in Gudauri ($40–120/night).
Why: Homestays offer authentic food and warmth; hotels provide city comfort.
How: Book via Booking.com, Airbnb, or local Facebook groups ($0). Look for “sakleburi” (guesthouse) signs in villages.
Transportation
Tip: Use marshrutkas ($2–15), trains ($3–15), Bolt/Yandex Go ($2–8), or GoTrip private drivers ($40–100/day).
Why: Marshrutkas reach every corner; private drivers let you stop at viewpoints and wineries.
How: Book trains on railway.ge. Use Bolt in cities. Reserve GoTrip drivers online for custom routes.
When to Go to Georgia
Plan your perfect trip with our guide to weather, festivals, crowd levels, and regional highlights.
When to Go to Georgia
Best Time to Visit
Tip: Travel in May–June or September–October for mild weather and stunning landscapes.
Why: 18–25°C, low rainfall, blooming valleys in spring, golden vineyards in autumn, and perfect hiking conditions.
How: Book accommodation 2–3 months ahead. Pack layers for cool mornings/evenings. Avoid Orthodox Easter week for fewer crowds.
Weather by Season
Spring (Mar–May): 10–22°C. Wildflowers in Kazbegi, fresh green hills in Kakheti, ideal for city breaks.
Summer (Jun–Aug): 25–35°C. Hot in Tbilisi/Batumi, perfect for Black Sea beaches and high-mountain trekking.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): 15–25°C. Wine harvest (Rtveli), golden forests, best visibility for Caucasus peaks.
Winter (Dec–Feb): -5–10°C. Skiing in Gudauri/Bakuriani, snowy charm in Svaneti, fewer tourists.
Major Festivals & Events
Tbilisoba (Oct): Tbilisi’s city festival – wine, street food, concerts, fireworks.
Rtveli Wine Harvest (Sep–Oct): Join families picking grapes in Kakheti – free food, chacha, singing.
Orthodox Easter (Apr/May): Midnight services, candle processions, family feasts across the country.
New Year (31 Dec–2 Jan): Fireworks in Tbilisi, huge supras (feasts), ski resorts packed.
Crowd Levels & Costs
Peak Season (Jun–Aug & Dec–Jan): Hotels +30–70%. Ski resorts and Batumi busiest. Book 4–6 months ahead.
Low Season (Nov–Mar, except holidays): 20–50% cheaper. Many mountain guesthouses offer big discounts.
Shoulder Season (Apr–May & Sep–Oct): Best value – mild weather, fewer tourists, normal prices.
Regional Travel Tips
Tbilisi & Kakheti: Year-round. Spring/autumn for wine tours; summer for rooftop bars.
Kazbegi & Svaneti: May–Oct for hiking; Dec–Mar for winter scenery and skiing.
Batumi & Black Sea: Jun–Sep. Warm sea, festivals; avoid winter storms.
Gudauri/Bakuriani: Dec–Apr for skiing; summer for paragliding and mountain biking.
Packing Essentials
Spring/Autumn: Light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, rain shell, scarf for churches.
Summer: Sun hat, sunglasses, breathable clothes, swimsuit, high-SPF sunscreen.
Winter: Warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves, thermal underwear for mountains.
Year-round: Power bank, reusable water bottle, Georgian phrasebook app, modest clothing for monasteries.
Top Destinations in Georgia
Discover 8 must-visit places – from the electric capital to Europe’s highest villages, ancient cave cities, and Black Sea beaches. Each destination comes with insider tips, exact costs, and the best ways to explore.
Top Destinations in Georgia
Tbilisi – The Soul of Georgia
Tip: Spend at least 3 days. Start with a free walking tour of Old Tbilisi, ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress ($1), and end with a sulfur bathhouse experience ($10–50).
Why: A city where 4th-century churches sit next to Soviet brutalism and trendy wine bars. The energy is unmatched.
How: Fly into Tbilisi International (TBS). Stay in Sololaki, Vera, or Marjanishvili districts ($25–90/night). Use Bolt/Yandex Go ($2–5/ride) or metro ($0.30).
- Don’t miss: Fabrika graffiti courtyard, Bridge of Peace at night, Mtatsminda Park.
- Food: Khinkali at Shemoikhede ($4–6), khachapuri at Machakhela ($3–5).
- Nightlife: Bassiani techno club or rooftop bars in Old Tbilisi.
Batumi – Black Sea Riviera
Tip: Walk the 7 km Boulevard at sunset, ride the Argo cable car ($10), and try Adjarian khachapuri on a boat-shaped plate ($5).
Why: Subtropical climate, skyscrapers, palm-lined promenade, and casinos – Georgia’s summer party capital.
How: Fly from Tbilisi ($30–60) or overnight train ($12). Stay on the New Boulevard or Old Town ($30–120/night).
- Day trips: Botanical Garden ($7), Gonio Fortress ($3), or mountain villages.
- Beaches: Free public or private loungers ($10–20).
- Food: Heart of Batumi restaurant for lobster & wine ($25–40).
Svaneti – Europe’s Highest Villages
Tip: Base yourself in Mestia, hike to Koruldi Lakes (free) or take a 4×4 to Ushguli ($25 pp). Visit the Svan towers at dusk for golden light.
Why: UNESCO-listed medieval defensive towers, glaciers, and the highest permanently inhabited villages in Europe (2,200 m).
How: Fly Kutaisi–Mestia ($50) or night train + marshrutka ($20, 10 hrs). Guesthouses with home-cooked meals ($20–40/night).
- Best hike: Mestia → Zhabeshi → Mazeri (2–3 days).
- Food: Kubdari (meat pie) at Laila or Erti Kava ($5–8).
- Season: June–October for hiking; December–April for skiing.
Kakheti – Cradle of Wine
Tip: Visit Sighnaghi (“City of Love”) at sunrise, taste qvevri wine at family cellars ($10–25), and stay overnight in a vineyard.
Why: 8,000-year wine tradition, rolling hills, and monasteries like Alaverdi and Bodbe.
How: Marshrutka from Tbilisi to Telavi ($4, 2 hrs). Book private wine tour via GoTrip ($60–100) or EatThis! ($40).
- Top wineries: Pheasant’s Tears, Shumi, Kindzmarauli.
- Food: Churchkhela, mtsvadi barbecue, and homemade chacha.
- Stay: Lost Ridge Inn or boutique guesthouses ($40–120).
Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) – Iconic Mountain Views
Tip: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church (free, 2–3 hrs) or take a Delica 4×4 ($10 pp). Watch sunset from Rooms Hotel terrace.
Why: The postcard image of Georgia – 14th-century church at 2,170 m beneath 5,047 m Mount Kazbek.
How: Marshrutka from Tbilisi ($5, 3 hrs). Stay at Rooms Kazbegi ($120+) or cozy guesthouses ($20–45).
- Other hikes: Juta village, Truso Valley, Sno Valley.
- Food: Khinkali soup at Cafe 5047m.
- Season: May–October; winter for snow landscapes.
Kutaisi & Imereti – Caves and Canyons
Tip: Combine Prometheus Cave ($10), Okatse Canyon walkway ($7), and Martvili Canyon boat ride ($7) in one epic day.
Why: Ancient Colchian kingdom with dramatic karst landscapes and UNESCO monasteries (Gelati, Bagrati).
How: Fly low-cost to Kutaisi (KUT). Rent a car ($30/day) or join a guided canyon tour ($35–50).
- Hidden gem: Kinchkha Waterfall (free).
- Food: Imeretian khachapuri at Palaty ($4).
- Stay: Boutique hotels in old town ($25–70).
Vardzia – Cave City of Queen Tamar
Tip: Explore the 13-level cave monastery ($7), then visit Rabati Castle in Akhaltsikhe ($5) and relax in natural hot springs nearby ($3).
Why: 12th-century underground city with 6,000 rooms carved into a cliff – Georgia’s answer to Petra.
How: Marshrutka from Tbilisi ($10, 4 hrs) or GoTrip driver with stops ($80 round-trip). Stay in Vardzia cave hotels ($35–80).
- Combine with: Khertvisi Fortress, Vanis Kvabebi caves.
- Food: Local trout and homemade wine at guesthouses.
- Best time: Spring or autumn to avoid heat.
Gudauri – Caucasus Ski & Adventure Hub
Tip: Ski December–April ($20–25 day pass), paraglide May–October ($80–100), and photograph the Soviet-era Friendship Monument.
Why: Modern ski resort at 2,200 m on the historic Georgian Military Highway with epic freeride terrain.
How: Marshrutka from Tbilisi ($5, 2 hrs). Stay slopeside at Marco Polo ($80+) or budget hostels ($20–40).
- Summer: Mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking.
- Food: Khinkali at Travellers Rest or alpine cafés.
- Bonus: Stop at Ananuri Fortress en route.
