Ideal Duration:
7-10 days for exploring Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kazbegi; longer for exploring the wine region and mountains
Best Time:
April to June, and September to November
Currency:
Georgian lari (GEL)
Visa Policy for Indians:
eVisa available
Visa Policy for Other Nationals:
eVisa or visa free entry for many countries
Getting In Georgia:
Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Kutaisi International Airport (KUT), Batumi International Airport (BUS)
Getting Around Georgia:
Marshrutkas, Buses, trains, taxis, rental cars
Accommodation Cost (per night in USD):
Dorm bed: $10-20
Budget: $30-60
Mid-range: $80-120
Luxury: $150 and above
Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD):
Budget: $10-20
Mid-range: $30-50
Georgia, a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The capital city, Tbilisi, is a blend of old and new, where ancient architecture and cobblestone streets coexist with modern buildings and vibrant nightlife. You can explore the historic district with its sulfur baths, visit the majestic Narikala Fortress, and stroll along Rustaveli Avenue, which is lined with museums, theaters, and shops. The country is also home to four UNESCO Sites that include Gelati Monastery, the Historical Monuments of Mtskheta, Upper Svaneti, and the Colchic Forests and Wetlands.
One of Georgia's most defining features is its breathtaking natural scenery. From the soaring peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains in the north to the rolling vineyards and lush valleys of the Kakheti wine region in the east, the country's landscapes are as varied as they are stunning. Ushguli, located in the upper Svaneti region of Georgia is also Europe’s highest continuously inhabited village. It's a great destination to witness medieval architecture and lifestyle.
Georgia is renowned for its ancient cave cities, such as Uplistsikhe and Vardzia. Uplistsikhe, located near Gori, is an ancient rock-hewn town that dates back to the early Iron Age and features tunnels, temples, and a theater. Vardzia, a cave monastery complex from the 12th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia's medieval past with its intricate cave dwellings and frescoes.
Finally, no discussion of Georgia is complete without mentioning its world-renowned wine. The country is one of the oldest wine-producing regions globally, with a winemaking tradition dating back over 8,000 years. A trip to Georgia is not complete without a visit to a local winery, where you can partake in traditional wine-making rituals and sample some of the finest wines in the world. The country is also famous for a large variety of cheese. There are more than 250 varieties of cheese produced in Georgia.
The country's rugged terrain is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and paragliding, all against the backdrop of dramatic vistas. Nestled between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all types of travelers.
Private transport: Renting a car is the best way to explore Georgia. The roads are smooth and the weather is quite good for road trips throughout the tourist season. Local residents also rent their cars for a cheaper price than big dealerships.
Public transport: Bolt and Yandex are the popular taxi apps in Georgia. Buses and the metro don’t accept cash. You will be required to buy a rechargeable card to pay for them. The intercity public transport network is not that good and is time-consuming.
Travel Cards: You can buy a rechargeable MetroMoney card for 2 GEL or an unlimited New Travel Card with various validity and different pricing. The cards can be purchased from any metro station. Rike-Narikala ropeway only accepts the MetroMoney card.
Road safety: Traffic in Georgia is bad, even in smaller towns. Traffic rules aren’t followed that well, making driving a little unsafe. Busy streets in the cities do not have pedestrian crossings and you must use the underpass.
Navigation: Google Maps are not reliable in Georgia. Use the TTC application for navigation. The opening hours for various establishments might be wrong on Google Maps. Cross-check them on the social media handles of the businesses.
Local timings: Days in Georgia start and end late. Most stores and restaurants are closed in the morning.
Breakfast options: There is no breakfast/brunch culture at cafes so book hotels with breakfast inclusions or carry breakfast if you have sightseeing plans for the morning as you might not find any place to have a seated meal before 11 AM.
The best time to visit Georgia is from April to October. While Georgia's overall weather stays mild and perfect throughout the year, these months with the onset of spring bring mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time to explore Georgia's historic sites, vibrant cities, a...
Caucasus Mountains, wine-making traditions, and warm hospitality.
Language Barrier, Political Instability, Limited Infrastructure
Exchanging money in Georgia is straightforward and convenient, with numerous options available in cities and towns. Georgian Lari (GEL) is the local currency, and it’s best to exchange money at banks or official exchange offices for the best rates. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most urban establishments. However, in rural areas, cash is essential. It's advisable to carry smaller denominations for daily transactions.
There are many payboxes in Georgia where you can top up your MetroMoney or Travel card. These might resemble ATMs so don't get confused. Payboxes can't be used to exchange money or dispense cash.
Georgia offers a variety of transportation options, making it easy to explore the country. In cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, public transport includes buses, minibuses (marshrutkas), and taxis. YandexGo and Bolt provide app-based taxi services in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. Tbilisi also has a metro system. For intercity travel, marshrutkas and trains are popular and affordable. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive. Roads are smooth but the traffic condition is poor.