🐾 Traveling to Georgia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Georgia
Georgia is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly dogs, with a growing culture of pet ownership in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi. Many hotels, restaurants, and outdoor areas accommodate well-behaved animals, making it a rewarding destination for pet owners exploring the Caucasus mountains and Black Sea coast.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Pet Passport or Certificate
Dogs, cats, and ferrets need a veterinary certificate or EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Certificate must include rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel) and health check within 10 days of entry.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 30 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; boosters required every 1-3 years depending on vaccine type.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; scanners are available at borders and airports.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need an international health certificate and may require rabies titer test.
No quarantine if requirements met; contact Georgian embassy or veterinary service for specifics.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds may need muzzles and leashes in public areas.
Check local rules in Tbilisi and Batumi; fighting breeds like Pit Bulls may face restrictions.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents require specific health certificates; exotic pets need CITES permits.
Import permits from Georgia's Agricultural Ministry recommended for non-traditional pets.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Georgia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Tbilisi & Batumi): Many mid-range hotels welcome pets for 20-50 GEL/night, with nearby parks. Chains like Radisson and local boutique hotels are often accommodating.
- Mountain Guesthouses & Chalets (Svaneti & Kazbegi): Rural lodges frequently allow pets at no extra charge, with access to hiking trails. Ideal for active pet owners in scenic highlands.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local platforms often permit pets, especially in countryside areas. Private homes provide space for pets to move freely.
- Ecotourism Stays (Kakheti Region): Wine country guesthouses welcome pets and feature gardens or vineyards. Great for families combining relaxation with pet-friendly outings.
- Beach Campsites & Resorts: Black Sea sites in Batumi area are pet-friendly with dog beaches and walking paths. Seasonal camping options abound.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale hotels like Rooms Hotel Tbilisi offer pet amenities including walking services and special beds for a premium experience.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Caucasus Hiking Trails
Georgia's mountains offer pet-friendly paths in Svaneti and Kazbegi National Parks.
Leash dogs near livestock and check park rules; guided tours available for families.
Black Sea Beaches
Batumi and Kobuleti beaches have sections for dogs with swimming areas.
Off-season access is easier; follow local signs for pet zones during summer.
Cities & Parks
Tbilisi's Rike Park and Batumi Boulevard welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafes often allow pets.
Historic districts permit pets on leash; avoid crowded indoor sites.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Georgian café scene is pet-tolerant, especially terraces in Tbilisi's Vake district.
Water bowls common; inquire before entering indoor areas with pets.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Tbilisi Old Town and Signagi welcome leashed dogs free of charge.
Focus on pedestrian-friendly routes; skip monasteries and indoor attractions.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Tbilisi and Gudauri cable cars allow small pets in carriers; fees around 10-20 GEL.
Advance notice recommended; some mountain lifts restrict larger dogs.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Georgian Railway): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (20-50 GEL) and must be leashed/muzzled. Allowed in most cars except dining areas.
- Buses & Marshrutkas (Urban/Rural): Tbilisi metro and buses allow small pets free; larger dogs 5-10 GEL with leash. Avoid peak hours for comfort.
- Taxis: Most Yandex and Bolt taxis accept pets with notice; select pet-friendly options in apps. Local taxis may charge extra 10 GEL.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Localrent allow pets with deposit (50-100 GEL). Opt for spacious vehicles for mountain drives.
- Flights to Georgia: Check airline policies; Georgian Airways and Turkish Airlines permit cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and Wizz Air accept cabin pets (under 8kg) for 50-150 GEL each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Tbilisi (e.g., Vet House) and Batumi offer urgent care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 50-150 GEL.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like ZooShop in major cities stock food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban areas provide grooming and daycare for 30-80 GEL per session.
Book in advance during tourist seasons; hotels can recommend locals.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services and apps like PetBacker offer sitting for day trips.
Guesthouses may provide informal care; inquire with hosts.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and protected areas. Rural trails may allow off-leash if controlled and away from farms.
- Muzzle Requirements: Large or potentially aggressive dogs need muzzles on public transport and in crowded spots. Carry one as precaution.
- Waste Disposal: Bins available in urban areas; fines for not cleaning up (50-200 GEL). Always carry bags on outings.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated dog areas on Batumi beaches; restrictions during high season (June-August). Keep distance from bathers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor tables; indoor entry rare. Ensure pets stay calm and off furniture.
- National Parks: Leash required near wildlife; some areas restrict pets during migration seasons (spring/fall). Stick to trails.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Georgia
Georgia for Families
Georgia delights families with its warm hospitality, ancient sites, mountain adventures, and coastal fun. Safe streets, interactive attractions, and affordable experiences make it ideal for kids and parents. Facilities include playgrounds, family menus, and stroller-friendly paths in key areas.
Top Family Attractions
Mtatsminda Park (Tbilisi)
Amusement park atop a hill with rides, Ferris wheel, and city views.
Entry free; rides 5-15 GEL. Funicular access adds excitement year-round.
Tbilisi Zoo
Family zoo with local and exotic animals, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Tickets 5-10 GEL adults, 3-5 GEL kids; educational shows engage children.
Narikala Fortress (Tbilisi)
Ancient hilltop fortress with cable car rides and panoramic vistas.
Free entry; family-friendly hikes and history lessons for all ages.
Batumi Dolphinarium
Interactive shows with dolphins and sea lions on the Black Sea coast.
Tickets 10-20 GEL; combine with beach time for a full family day.
Ananuri Fortress (Near Kazbegi)
Picturesque medieval site with towers, churches, and river views.
Free access; scenic drives and easy walks suitable for young explorers.
Gudauri Adventure Park (Kazbegi)
Summer zip lines, via ferrata, and winter skiing with family zones.
Activities 20-50 GEL; safety-focused for kids 5+ in the Caucasus.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Georgia on Viator. From wine tours to mountain hikes, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Tbilisi & Batumi): Properties like Iota Hotel offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for 150-300 GEL/night. Include cribs, kids' menus, and play spaces.
- Mountain Family Resorts (Svaneti): Guesthouses with childcare and family activities. Places like Rooms Hotel Rooms & Suites cater to families with programs.
- Rural Guesthouses (Kakheti): Farm stays with animal interactions and home-cooked meals. Prices 80-150 GEL/night including breakfast.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options with kitchens for family meals. Abundant in cities for flexibility.
- Budget Hostels: Family rooms in Tbilisi hostels for 100-200 GEL/night. Clean with communal areas and kitchen access.
- Coastal Resorts: Batumi beach hotels like Hilton Batumi for seaside family stays with pools and kids' clubs.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Tbilisi with Kids
Old Town exploration, cable cars to Narikala, Mtatsminda amusement, and puppet theater.
Street food and parks create a vibrant, walkable experience for families.
Batumi with Kids
Beach play, Dolphinarium shows, Botanical Garden, and Ali and Nino statue.
Boardwalk strolls and summer festivals entertain children seaside.
Kazbegi with Kids
Stepantsminda church hikes, Gergeti Trinity views, and easy mountain trails.
Jeep tours to alpine meadows with picnic spots for family bonding.
Kakheti Region
Signagi "City of Love," wine tastings (non-alcoholic for kids), and Sighnaghi walls.
Easy drives, monasteries, and countryside picnics for relaxed family days.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 5 free; 6-10 half-price with adult. Family seating on Georgian Railway with stroller space.
- City Transport: Tbilisi metro and buses offer family tickets (20-30 GEL/day). Most stops stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (10-20 GEL/day); book ahead. 4x4s ideal for mountains.
- Stroller-Friendly: Tbilisi sidewalks improving with ramps; attractions like parks provide storage.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants serve khachapuri, khinkali, and pasta for 10-20 GEL. High chairs common.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Machakhela chain and local eateries with play areas. Tbilisi dry bridges market for variety.
- Self-Catering: Carrefour and local shops stock baby items and fresh foods. Markets for picnic supplies.
- Snacks & Treats: Churchkhela sweets and fresh fruits keep kids happy on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, zoos, and stations with facilities.
- Pharmacies: Aversi chain stocks formula, diapers; English-speaking staff available.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters (30-50 GEL/hour); local agencies in cities.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in Tbilisi; emergencies dial 112. Insurance advised.
♿ Accessibility in Georgia
Accessible Travel
Georgia is enhancing accessibility with urban improvements, though rural areas vary. Tbilisi offers wheelchair-friendly transport and sites; tourism resources provide guidance for inclusive trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Georgian Railway provides ramps and spaces; request assistance in advance.
- City Transport: Tbilisi buses and metro have low-floor options and elevators at key stops.
- Taxis: Bolt app offers accessible vehicles; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Tbilisi International has full services including assistance and ramps.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Tbilisi National Museum has ramps and audio guides; cable cars accessible.
- Historic Sites: Batumi Boulevard is flat and wheelchair-friendly; fortresses may need alternatives.
- Nature & Parks: Rike Park paths are smooth; some trails adapted in national parks.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; seek ground-floor and adapted bathrooms.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) for mild weather and blooms; fall (September-October) for harvest festivals.
Summer for beaches, winter for mountains; avoid July-August heat in lowlands.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at attractions; Tbilisi Card for transport discounts.
Street food and guesthouses keep costs low (200-400 GEL/day for family).
Language
Georgian official; Russian and English in tourist spots.
Locals helpful; use translation apps for ease with kids.
Packing Essentials
Layers for variable climates, sturdy shoes for uneven paths, sun protection.
Pets: food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, vaccination papers.
Useful Apps
Bolt for taxis, Georgian Railway for trains, Google Translate.
MyTbilisi for city navigation and events.
Health & Safety
Georgia safe; drink bottled water outside cities. Pharmacies widespread.
Emergency 112; travel insurance covers health needs.