Georgia Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Georgia: From the vibrant streets of Tbilisi to the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe

National Flag of Georgia

The 15 Most Searched Questions About Georgia

The capital of Georgia is Tbilisi, a charming city known for its mix of old-world architecture and modern vibrancy.

Citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, and Canada, can enter Georgia visa-free for up to 1 year. More details in our Documents tab.

Georgia uses the Georgian Lari (GEL). More details in our Currency tab.

Georgia is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates, though caution is advised near border regions. More details in our Safety tab.

The official language is Georgian, but Russian is widely spoken, and English is common in tourist areas like Tbilisi.

Georgia is known for its ancient wine-making tradition, stunning Caucasus Mountains, and historic sites like the cave city of Uplistsikhe. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for exploring Tbilisi and the countryside.

Georgia is budget-friendly—expect to spend $40-$80 per day. A meal at a casual restaurant costs $5-$10, while a mid-range hotel in Tbilisi costs $30-$70 per night.

Tap water is generally safe in Tbilisi, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.

Must-visits include the Old Town of Tbilisi, the cave city of Uplistsikhe, and the wine region of Kakheti. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Georgia has a varied climate: hot summers (25-35°C), cold winters (-5 to 10°C), and mild spring and autumn (10-20°C).

Yes, festivals like Tbilisoba (October) celebrate Georgian culture with food, wine, and music, while the Rtveli harvest festival in Kakheti (September) focuses on winemaking.

Popular souvenirs include Georgian wine, traditional felt hats (papakha), and handmade ceramics.

Marshrutkas (minibuses) cost $0.50-$2 for local routes. Taxis in Tbilisi are affordable at $2-$5 per ride, or rent a car for $30-$50 per day.

Try khachapuri, khinkali, and churchkhela. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Georgia

Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia in the South Caucasus, spans 69,700 square kilometers. Tbilisi, the capital, is home to about 1.2 million people, roughly a third of Georgia’s total population of 3.7 million (2023 estimate), predominantly ethnic Georgians with minorities like Armenians and Azerbaijanis. Georgian is the official language, with Russian widely spoken and English common in tourist areas. Georgia offers visa-free entry for up to 1 year for citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, and Canada, while others can apply for an e-Visa. In 2019, Georgia welcomed 9.3 million tourists, drawn by its ancient history, Caucasus Mountains, and wine culture. The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and wine production, with exports like wine and mineral water. Georgia’s climate varies by region: hot summers (25-35°C), cold winters (-5 to 10°C), and mild spring and autumn (10-20°C). Budget travelers can expect to spend $40-$80 per day, with a casual meal costing $5-$10 and a coffee $1-$3. Public transport like marshrutkas costs $0.50-$2, while taxis in Tbilisi range from $2-$5 per ride. Cultural events include Tbilisoba (October), a celebration of Georgian culture, and the Rtveli harvest festival in Kakheti (September). Georgia’s history includes ancient kingdoms, Soviet rule, and independence in 1991, reflected in sites like the Narikala Fortress in Tbilisi and the cave city of Uplistsikhe. Natural attractions include the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea coast. With its rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse landscapes, Georgia offers a memorable travel experience.

Visa & Passport for Georgia: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from Georgia and have at least one blank page for stamps. Children need their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of over 90 countries, including the US, EU, Canada, and Australia, can enter Georgia visa-free for up to 1 year for tourism or business. Others, such as citizens of India or China, can apply for an e-Visa online at the official Georgian e-Visa portal, costing $20-$50 depending on nationality and duration (30-90 days). Overstaying incurs fines starting at 180 GEL ($65) and potential entry bans.
  • Other Requirements: Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested at the border. No specific vaccinations are required, though a COVID-19 vaccination certificate might be needed depending on current regulations.

Driving in Georgia: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: Foreigners can drive with a valid national license for up to 1 year, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended to avoid issues. Without an IDP, you risk a fine of 50 GEL ($18).
  • Road Rules: Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%—fines for violations start at 400 GEL ($145).
  • Road Conditions: Main roads in Tbilisi are good, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow and unpaved—use a 4x4 vehicle for regions like Svaneti.
  • Car Rental: Available in Tbilisi for $30-$50 per day. Ensure the car has a GPS, as signage may not always be in English.
  • Parking: Parking in Tbilisi costs 1-3 GEL ($0.35-$1) per hour in central areas; many hotels offer free parking.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies or police assistance.

Currency in Georgia: Using the Lari for Your Trip

  • Georgian Lari (GEL): The official currency. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 GEL; coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 tetri, plus 1 and 2 GEL.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or exchange offices in Tbilisi for the best rates—avoid airports due to high fees. ATMs are widely available and accept foreign cards (withdrawal fees around 3 GEL/$1).
  • Payment Methods: Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas—carry small denominations (5-20 GEL). Cards are accepted in Tbilisi at hotels and restaurants; mobile payments are growing but not universal.
  • Costs: A casual meal costs $5-$10, a coffee $1-$3, and a mid-range hotel in Tbilisi $30-$70 per night.

Legal Guide for Georgia: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Public drinking is allowed, but public intoxication can lead to fines of up to 150 GEL ($55). Drug laws are strict—possession can result in up to 7 years in prison, though small amounts of marijuana are decriminalized for personal use.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect religious sites like churches—dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) and avoid loud behavior. More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography at military sites or near borders is prohibited—fines can reach 500 GEL ($180). Drones require permits near government buildings or borders.
  • Public Behavior: Smoking in public places like restaurants is banned—fines start at 50 GEL ($18). Littering can result in a fine of 80 GEL ($30).
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 3 liters of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over 30,000 GEL ($11,000) or its equivalent.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies or police.

Travel Safety in Georgia: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: Georgia is very safe with low crime rates—petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like Tbilisi’s Old Town or Rustaveli Avenue.
  • Road Safety: Pedestrians should use crosswalks, as drivers may not always yield. Mountain roads can be challenging—drive cautiously in regions like Svaneti.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is safe in Tbilisi but may not be in rural areas—opt for bottled water outside the capital. No major health risks; routine vaccinations are recommended.
  • Natural Hazards: Georgia is seismically active—earthquakes are possible, so familiarize yourself with safety protocols (drop, cover, hold on). Avoid border areas due to occasional tensions.
  • Scams: Scams are rare, but be cautious of unofficial taxis overcharging—use apps like Bolt or Yandex Go in Tbilisi (fares $2-$5).
  • Medical Facilities: Hospitals in Tbilisi, like Cito Medical Center, are reliable. Pharmacies are widespread—look for the green cross sign.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. The US Embassy in Tbilisi can be reached at +995 32-227-7000.

Culture & Etiquette in Georgia: What to Know

  • Greetings: A handshake is common—say “Gamarjoba” (Hello). Georgians are hospitable and may invite you to their homes; it’s polite to accept.
  • Dining Customs: At a supra (traditional feast), wait for the tamada (toastmaster) to lead toasts. Toasting is a key part of Georgian culture—expect multiple toasts with wine.
  • Community Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads in some churches.
  • Festivals: Tbilisoba (October) celebrates Georgian culture with food, wine, and music. The Rtveli harvest festival in Kakheti (September) focuses on winemaking traditions.
  • Language Tips: In tourist areas, you might hear “Madloba” (Thank you). Learning basics like “Gamarjoba” (Hello) shows respect.
  • Social Practices: Georgians value hospitality—don’t be surprised if locals offer you food or drinks. Public displays of affection are generally discreet.

Local Cuisine in Georgia: Dishes & Drinks to Try

  • Khachapuri: A cheese-filled bread, often shaped like a boat with an egg on top—$5-$10 at a local restaurant.
  • Khinkali: Soup dumplings filled with spiced meat—$0.50-$1 each, typically sold in sets of 5 or 10.
  • Churchkhela: A traditional candy made of nuts dipped in grape juice—$2-$4 per piece.
  • Georgian Wine: Known for its 8,000-year history, try varieties like Saperavi or Rkatsiteli—$5-$10 per glass.
  • Chacha: A strong grape spirit, often served as a digestif—$2-$5 per shot.
  • Where to Eat: In Tbilisi, try khachapuri at Sakhachapure No.1 near Liberty Square. For khinkali, Pasanauri in the Old Town is a local favorite. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Georgia: Must-Visit Places

  • Tbilisi Old Town (Tbilisi): A historic district with cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, and the Narikala Fortress. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Uplistsikhe (Shida Kartli): An ancient cave city dating back to the 1st millennium BC, carved into a rocky hillside. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Kakheti Wine Region (Kakheti): Georgia’s premier wine region, known for traditional qvevri winemaking and tastings. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (Mtskheta): A UNESCO-listed 11th-century cathedral, a key site of Georgian Orthodoxy. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Martvili Canyon (Samegrelo): A scenic canyon with turquoise waters, perfect for boat rides and hiking. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Gudauri Ski Resort (Mtskheta-Mtianeti): A popular winter destination in the Caucasus Mountains, ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Where to Eat: In Tbilisi, Sakhachapure No.1 near Liberty Square offers delicious khachapuri. Pasanauri in the Old Town is renowned for its khinkali.

Flights to Georgia: Travel Options

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) is the main entry point, with flights from cities like London, Istanbul, and Dubai. A taxi from TBS to central Tbilisi costs $10-$15 and takes 20-30 minutes; buses cost 0.50 GEL ($0.20) and take 40 minutes.

Create Your Packing List for Georgia

Travel Tips for Georgia

  • Connectivity: Pocket Wi-Fi devices cost $5-$10 per day and are widely available. SIM cards from Magti or Geocell offer 5-10 GB for $5-$15.
  • Health Prep: No specific vaccinations are required, but ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Travel insurance covering medical expenses is recommended.
  • Weather Prep: Pack for the season—light clothing for summer, warm layers for winter. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for mountain regions like Svaneti.
  • City Navigation: Use apps like Google Maps for Tbilisi. For intercity travel, marshrutkas are reliable and cost $2-$5 for trips like Tbilisi to Mtskheta.
  • Peak Season: Summer (July-August) and autumn (September-October) are busy due to festivals and pleasant weather—book accommodations early.