How to Visit Georgia the Country in 2026: The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide

Everything you need to know to visit Georgia in 2026 – including up-to-date city and regional guides, insider tips, and practical resources drawn from nearly a decade of on-the-ground experience.

Mysterious cave cities, soaring cathedrals, snow-capped peaks, free-flowing wine, crumbling sanatoriums, and warm hospitality that turns strangers into friends – Georgia is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

And let me tell you, it’s changing at quite a clip. Infrastructure is improving, connections are expanding, and travelling around the country is easier than ever – even as some entry rules and requirements gradually tighten in line with global travel trends. Yet many corners of the country still feel wonderfully untouched.

If Georgia (the country) is on your travel wish list, now is the time to go.

This small but mighty nation in the South Caucasus strikes a rare balance between convenience and adventure. You can travel independently and comfortably while still feeling, at times, as though you’re well and truly off the beaten path – discovering places and stories that few travellers before you have experienced.

After years of travelling extensively around Georgia and living here, one thing has become clear: no two people experience the country in quite the same way. Many visitors (myself included) arrive out of curiosity and end up falling in love – sometimes deeply enough to stay.

I love Georgia to bits, but I also have a clear-eyed understanding of the realities of travelling here. Since starting this Georgia travel blog in 2017, I’ve always aimed to present a full and honest picture – celebrating what makes the country special while also being upfront about the challenges.

This Georgia Travel Guide brings all of that knowledge together. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to plan a trip, from transport logistics, safety and budgeting to cultural etiquette, food, and responsible travel.

Explore Georgia: Georgia Travel Blogs

All my 250+ Georgia travel blogs, stories and guides, organised by destination and theme. Each link opens in a new tab so you can bookmark the pages you want to come back to later.

Start here: Essential reading

New to Georgia? Start with these guides.

Where to go & itinerary ideas

Planning your route? Start here with these lists & itineraries.

Transport tips

How do you get around Georgia? Start with these guides.

Special seasonal guides

Travelling seasonally? Use these guides to decide when to go.

Popular destinations

Tbilisi

• Tbilisi city guide
• Restaurants in Tbilisi
• Bars in Tbilisi
• Cafes in Tbilisi
• Boutique hotels
• Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
• Tbilisi museums & galleries
• Tbilisi churches
• Tbilisi souvenir shops
• Folk music & dance
• Narikala Fortress
• Mtatsminda Park
• Chronicles of Georgia
• Tbilisi Skybridge
• Brutalist architecture
• Hiking near Tbilisi

Kutaisi

• City guide & itinerary
• Hidden gems in Kutaisi
• Where to stay in Kutaisi
• Restaurants in Kutaisi
• Bars in Kutaisi
• Kutaisi in winter
• See all Kutaisi Guides →

Batumi

• Batumi city guide
• Batumi Botanical Garden
• Batumi street art
• Gonio Cross hike
• Batumi airport to the city
• See all Batumi Guides →

Regions of Georgia

Kartli & around Tbilisi

• Mtskheta city guide
• Gori city guide
• Stalin Museum in Gori
• Uplistsikhe Cave City
• Kaspi Ancient Tombs
• Sabaduri Forest
• Rustavi city guide
• David Gareja Cave Monastery
• Kvemo Kartli region
• Didgori Battle Memorial
• Pankisi Valley travel guide

Imereti & around Kutaisi

• Chiatura city guide
• Tskaltubo travel guide
• Canyons & caves day trip
• Vani Sulfur Pool day trip
• Wineries in Imereti
• Tskhrajvari day hike
• Khvamli Mountain day hike
• Martvili Canyon
• Sairme Resort
• Zestafoni city guide
• Sachkhere city guide

Caucasus mountains

• Tusheti travel guide
• Racha travel guide
• Khevsureti itinerary
• Shatili travel guide
• Mutso travel guide

Guria & Samegrelo

• Ozurgeti & the Tea Route
• Bakhmaro travel guide
• Lelo Burti Festival
• Zugdidi city guide
• Orkol Studio pottery
• The Monument Route
• Nokalakevi hot springs

Samtskhe-Javakheti

• Meskheti Region travel guide
• Borjomi travel guide
• Bakuriani travel guide
• Vardzia Cave City
• Akhaltsikhe city guide
• Rabati Castle
• Abastumani travel guide
• Javakheti Protected Areas
• Shaori Fortress hike
• Epiphany on Paravani Lake
• Meskhetian cuisine

Adjara & the Black Sea Coast

• Upper Adjara travel guide
• Glamping Tago
• Anaklia travel guide
• Kobuleti travel guide
• Poti city guide
• Kolkheti National Park
• Machakhela Protected Areas
• Sarpi & the Turkish border

Plan Your Trip: Georgia Travel Guide

This guide is written specifically for first-time visitors to Georgia who want clear, reliable information before they arrive. It follows a logical planning sequence – covering entry requirements, insurance, safety, transport, costs, and connectivity – before moving on to destinations, experiences, and onward travel.

You don’t need to read this page from start to finish. It’s designed as a manual you can return to at different stages of your planning/travels, with links throughout to deeper, more detailed guides where useful.

About Georgia

Putting Georgia on the Map

One of the first questions people ask when planning a trip to Georgia is a surprisingly basic one: where is it, exactly? And just as often, that question is quickly followed by another – is Georgia part of Europe or Asia?

These aren’t purely academic distinctions. How you answer them can shape your expectations around culture, infrastructure, travel style, and even logistics.

Georgia is located in the South Caucasus, or Trans-Caucasus, region between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains. It borders Russia to the north, Türkiye 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. While Georgia is technically part of the Asian continent, to me – and certainly to most Georgians – it feels a lot more like Europe than Asia.

Georgia’s connections to Western Europe stretch back to Hellenistic and Roman influences. After the fall of Constantinople, Georgia was sometimes seen as ‘the last outpost’ of the Christian world. For the past few decades, the country’s gaze has been fixed even more resolutely westward, and Georgia aspires to join NATO and the European Union. One of my favourite anecdotes on this topic comes from 1999, when Georgian politician Zurab Zhvania famously declared: “I am Georgian, therefore I am European” when addressing the European Council. On November 8, 2023, Georgia was granted EU Candidate status – a decision that was later revised.

For many people today, the more pressing issue is whether the country’s future lies with the European Union or under the influence of its northern neighbour – a tension that plays out in politics, public debate, and daily life. While Georgia remains independent, its position between competing spheres of influence is something visitors will sometimes sense, whether through conversations, media headlines, or moments of public protest.

Georgia is a crossroads country and has always toed the line. As one historian explained it to me, Georgians have long understood they need to navigate 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 overlapping influences combined to shape a distinctive worldview, reflected in everything from Georgian poetry to the electric architecture of Tbilisi Old Town.

As an outpost on the Silk Road trading route, Georgia benefited from centuries of cross-pollination – of religions, cultures, traditions and foods. Georgia took this heady mix and added a pinch of something else to make it its own. The language, cuisine, architecture and spiritual traditions that emerged are distinctly, unmistakably Georgian.

One of the joys of getting to know Georgia is grappling with these contradictions and complexities. Not quite Asia, not quite Europe, Georgia doesn’t fit neatly into either category – instead, it makes its own rules.

Why Visit Georgia?

Georgia is intriguing – but you don’t book a plane ticket just because a country has an unusual location or is the star of trivia night.

Tourism in Georgia has surged in recent years, with the country counting 5.5 million tourist visits in 2025 – a record high, and an increase of more than 8% compared to 2024. The Caucasus region is having a moment, and in many ways Georgia is still at the centre of it.

So what is it that draws so many people here? And more importantly, what is it that makes so many travellers come back again and again? Here are just some of the things that make Georgia special.

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 experience Georgia’s natural beauty – from bathing in open-air hot springs to riding scenic cable cars and sleeping in village homestays.

The cities. Starting with Tbilisi, a city that bristles with creative energy and bubbles with history (quite literally – there are hot springs right in the centre of town). Every city has its own character. And I love them all.

The food. Beyond the usual suspects – khinkali and khachapuri – Georgian cuisine is a parallel universe of flavours and textures you’ve likely never encountered before. From regional cuisines such as Megrelian and Meskhetian, to hearty mountain fare and Tbilisi chefs putting a modern spin on the classics, this country is nothing if not a tastebud pleaser.

The wine. Georgia’s natural wine scene is known the world over. Qvevri wines made in shapely clay vessels buried underground are the most famous – including inky Saperavi reds and earthy skin-contact amber (or orange) wines. I can’t think of another place where wine is so deeply intertwined with history and daily life.

The history. Georgian history is still relatively little-know outside the region. Every castle, monastery, fortress and cave city offers a hands-on lesson in survival, faith and resilience. I find the myths and legends particularly fascinating.

The Soviet throwbacks. Architecture lovers and urbex enthusiasts alike are drawn to Georgia for its Soviet legacy. If you’re a fan of Brutalist buildings, abandoned structures and monumental mosaics, you will love Georgia.

That other thing I can never quite put my finger on. There’s an atmosphere about Georgia – an aura – that makes it unlike anywhere else I’ve been to. Part of it, I think, comes from the country’s turbulent past and ongoing struggles, and the way people have held onto their identity and independence so fiercely through it all. In many respects, Georgia still feels like a bit of a secret – at least to the wider world.

Fast Facts About Georgia

The country’s official name is Georgia, though to locals it’s known by its Georgian name, Sakartvelo.

Georgian is a language isolate, meaning it isn’t closely related to any other living language. It has its own unique alphabet, one of only a handful of writing systems in the world not derived from Latin, Greek or Cyrillic. The loopy script is visually striking and looks complex, but it’s actually very easy to learn the 33 characters.

Georgia was the second state in the world to adopt Christianity as its official religion (after neighbouring Armenia). Today, the country is predominantly Orthodox Christian, and the church continues to play an important role in modern society.

Georgia earned the nickname ‘the Cradle of Wine’ after archaeologists uncovered the world’s earliest evidence of winemaking in southern Georgia – grape seeds and residue dating back 8,000 years.

The traditional Georgian feast, known as a supra, is both a social and ceremonial event. Guided by a toastmaster (tamada), a supra weaves together food, wine, storytelling and ritual, and remains a part of everyday life rather than a performance for visitors.

Present-day Georgia was one of the earliest destinations of human migration out of Africa. In 2000, archaeologists uncovered the oldest well-dated hominin fossils in Eurasia – at least 1.8 million years old – at Dmanisi.

Georgia is home to what some consider 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.

Despite its small size, Georgia is extraordinarily diverse. The country is said to encompass around a dozen distinct climate zones, and within a few hours’ drive landscapes can shift from subtropical wetlands and vineyards to high alpine passes and glaciers. This geographic variety has also helped preserve a remarkable range of regional cultures, customs and cuisines, making the South Caucasus one of the most linguistically diverse regions in the world.

There are more than 250 varieties of artisanal cheese in Georgia, most of them native to mountain regions and the pastoral areas of Imereti and Adjara.

Georgia has a national holiday dedicated to self-care. Bedoba, celebrated on January 2, is a ‘day of luck’ that sets the tone for the year ahead – and it’s a time to do all your favourite things.

Best Time to Visit Georgia

Overall best time to visit Georgia: Late spring or autumn.

The weather in Georgia varies dramatically depending on where you go, but the climate is relatively mild overall. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Georgia is either in spring (late April to early June) or autumn (mid-September to early November). These months promise milder temperatures, ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities, and a busy calendar of cultural festivals and religious celebrations.

→ Full month-by-month guide to the seasons in Georgia

Georgia in spring

Good for: Hiking, food & festivals.

Spring – especially late April and May, and including the first weeks of June – is one of my favourite times to be in Georgia. Winter often lingers until Orthodox Easter (usually mid-April), but once it passes, temperatures rise, wildflowers and cherry blossoms come into bloom, and conditions become ideal for hiking.

Spring wine, spring produce and spring celebrations – including the New Wine Festival in Tbilisi – help the country thaw out from the cold. Crowds are much lighter than in summer, with the exception of the Nowruz holiday period (usually mid-March), which brings an influx of visitors from neighbouring countries.

The main downside of travelling in spring is rainfall. May is typically the wettest month of the year in Tbilisi.

Read next:

• Where to go in Georgia in spring
• The best things to do in Tbilisi in spring
• Where to see wildflowers in Georgia
• How to celebrate Orthodox Easter in Georgia
• Attending the Lelo Burti Easter Festival

Georgia in summer

Good for: Mountain hiking & 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, while mountain regions come back to life after the long winter.

Tbilisi, by contrast, grows very quiet as locals head off to the coast or villages to wait out the hottest months of the year. The heat in Tbilisi can be stifling (temperatures up to 40°C), and the air quality worsens in summer, making a summer trip to Tbilisi less than ideal.

Summer is the best time for high-mountain hiking in Georgia – and in the case of some remote regions including Tusheti, it’s the only time of year when the roads are reliably open.

Prices for accommodation and tours go up with higher demand – especially on the Black Sea Coast – and it can be more difficult to buy train tickets, for example, as domestic tourism also peaks.

Read next:

• Where to go in Georgia in summer (published soon)
• 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 thin out as soon as temperatures start to cool off. Autumn (mid-September to early November) is an excellent time to visit, especially for wine and culture lovers.

The annual grape harvest, known as Rtveli, takes place in September and early October. This is a period of feasting, festivities and fun, especially in Kakheti, the main grape-growing hub. Tbilisoba, Georgia’s largest cultural festival, is held in Tbilisi in October.

Milder temperatures and autumn foliage also makes this a great season for hiking, while the ‘Velvet Season’ in late September is a nice time to experience the Black Sea Coast sans heavy crowds.

Read next:

• Where to go in Georgia in autumn
• The best things to do in Tbilisi in autumn
• How to experience the Rtveli wine harvest
• Where to see fall colours in Georgia

Georgia in winter

Good for: Quieter cities, Christmas energy & 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 cut off, and the Black Sea Coast empties out, although most businesses remain open in Batumi.

Aside from the dormant landscape, winter can be a pleasant time to visit, especially for a Tbilisi city break. In December, blue-sky days are common and crowds are minimal.

Orthodox Christmas and New Year celebrations – both observed roughly a week later than their Western counterparts – give Tbilisi a festive atmosphere. Georgia’s ski season typically starts in late December and peaks in February and early March, depending on snowfall.

Read next:

• Special winter activities in Georgia
• The best things to do in Tbilisi in winter
• Guide to Christmas & New Year in Georgia
• Where to go skiing in Georgia
• Kutaisi winter city break

Visas & Entry Requirements for Georgia

This section provides a general overview only. For up-to-date visa information or advice specific to your circumstances, always refer to the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

One year visa-free

Georgia has one of the most generous visa exemption policies in the world. Currently, passport holders from more than 95 countries – including the US, the EU, Australia, and the UK – can stay in Georgia for up to one year without a visa.

An additional 10 nationalities are eligible for visa-free stays of between 30 and 90 days. There are also provisions for travellers who hold a valid visa or residence permit for certain third countries, allowing stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Under the visa-free regime, you’re also permitted to open a bank account, start a business, apply for temporary residency, and even buy property. Remember that you automatically become a tax resident of Georgia after 183 days in the country. If you plan to work in Georgia, note that work permits are being introduced in 2026.

Because this is a visa exemption, the one-year period can easily be ‘reset’ by leaving Georgia and re-entering on a new stamp. This arrangement will surely change in the future, but for now, travellers with the right passport who are willing to cross the border once a year can legally remain in Georgia long-term.

E-visas   

Passport holders from an additional 65+ countries are eligible for a 30 or 90-day tourist e-visa, which you can apply for online before you arrive.

→ Visit the official Georgia e-Visa Portal to apply.

Passport & Entry Requirements

In addition to meeting visa (or visa-free) requirements, you may be asked to show the following on entry:

• Proof of insurance covering the duration of your stay (mandatory from January 1, 2026 – see below)
• A passport that is valid for the intended length of your stay
• Proof of onward travel, such as a return airfare

Additional requirements apply if you are travelling on a tourist visa – including proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient financial means. To avoid issues at check-in or at the border, I strongly recommend reviewing the full entry conditions carefully before you travel and following the official advice to a T.

Mandatory Travel Insurance for Georgia

As of January 1, 2026, insurance is now mandatory for all tourists entering Georgia, including those on the visa-free regime.

Your policy should clearly demonstrate:

• Health and medical cover, including emergency treatment and hospitalisation
• Accident cover
• A minimum coverage amount of 30,000 GEL
• Validity in Georgia
• Policy dates covering your full stay (including arrival and departure days)

Proof may be checked at airline check-in, at passport control, or both. A policy certificate in English or Georgian (digital or printed) is required.

There is no facility to buy insurance at the airport or border, so you need to obtain a policy before you leave home. Travellers without valid insurance may face denied boarding, refusal of entry, or a fine.

⚑ For more details, see this guide: Mandatory travel insurance explained.

Standard travel insurance policies do not cover Abkhazia or Samachablo (South Ossetia). You will need to take out a specialised high-risk insurance policy for these regions – but do note that neither of the breakaway territories can be entered from Georgia by land at present.

→ Get 5% off single and multi-trip travel insurance when you use my HeyMondo link.

Is Georgia Safe to Visit?

General Safety

Georgia is an overwhelmingly safe travel destination. Tourists are rarely targeted by petty crime, and systematic scams are rare and easy to avoid. The main thing to be aware of is road safety.

As long as you exercise common sense – keep an eye on your belongings, plan your transport wisely, and take sensible precautions when hiking – you’re unlikely to encounter any problems. Solo female travellers should avoid hiking alone and consider pairing up with other travellers to visit rural areas.

A question I’m often asked concerns political instability. In 2003, Georgia went through the Rose Revolution, and it’s worth noting that tensions around breakaway and occupied territories still exist. Protests do occur in Tbilisi in response to different political decisions and social issues. These are usually peaceful, but I recommend avoiding them where possible.

At the time of writing, demonstrations are still taking place in Tbilisi following the parliamentary elections in October 2024. While this is an important moment for the country, the situation does not directly affect tourism. Businesses, attractions and transport continue to operate as normal across Georgia. My general advice remains unchanged: exercise common-sense caution and avoid protest areas, particularly around Parliament in Tbilisi after dark. If in doubt, check your local travel advisory.

⚑ Essential reading: Protests explained & safety tips for Georgia.

Safety in Tbilisi

Tbilisi is frequently ranked among the safest cities in the world. A few simple precautions will help you avoid common issues:

• Always use an app to book taxis
• Always ask the price before buying food/drinks from street vendors or at markets
• Avoid exchanging money at the airport; use an ATM instead
• Don’t enter bars or clubs that aren’t listed on Google Maps

Road safety

Road safety is my biggest personal concern in Georgia. The driving style is fast and aggressive, and reckless behaviour is not uncommon. While highways and mountain roads alike are improving, some roads are hazardous.

To reduce risk:

• Always use your seatbelt – even if it is not mandatory for backseat passengers
• Break up long road journeys
• Avoid travelling after dark
• Never get into a vehicle if you suspect the driver has been drinking
• Avoid very cheap day tours, which sometimes cut corners on safety
• Use private transfers for mountain roads rather than marshrutka vans
• Familiarise yourself with local driving habits before hiring a car

Dogs in Georgia

Georgia has a large population of street dogs – around 30,000 in Tbilisi alone. City dogs are generally placid and accustomed to people, but they can be territorial and aggressive with each other. Many are ear-tagged, indicating they’ve been vaccinated and neutered.

Seeing so many dogs can be distressing, and while most are informally cared for by the community, not all are in good condition. If you encounter a dog in need of urgent care, Dog Organization Georgia may be able to assist.

Shepherd dogs are a separate issue. In rural areas and mountain regions, these dogs are trained to protect sheep and cattle, and they can be very aggressive. Give dogs and livestock a wide berth, and if confronted, stand your ground and call out – there’s often a shepherd nearby who can intervene.

Solo female travel

Georgia is generally safe for solo female travellers provided you exercise common sense. Avoid hiking alone, even in the hills around Tbilisi. Sit in the backseat of taxis, lock your accommodation at night, and avoid properties with shared yards as they offer very little privacy.

Photography & Drone Rules

Georgia has a relaxed attitude towards photography. Cameras are generally welcome in public spaces, streets and markets. Photography is restricted at military sites, around border infrastructure, and other sensitive locations. Photography and filming are technically prohibited in the Tbilisi Metro, though people sometimes get away with quick phone shots.

Drone use is legal in Georgia. Small recreational drones under 250 grams do not require a permit from the Civil Aviation Agency, provided basic safety rules are followed. ‘No drone’ signs are uncommon but do exist, particularly at churches (including Gergeti Trinity).

Money & Costs in Georgia

Georgian Lari (GEL)

The official currency in Georgia is the Georgian lari, abbreviated to GEL (₾). Prices are sometimes displayed in US dollars or Euros, but lari is the only legal method of payment in Georgia (excluding Abkhazia and South Ossetia).

Banknotes in circulation range from 5 to 100 GEL, alongside coins (tetri and 1-2 lari). In practice, you’ll mostly use notes and card payments.

Exchange rates can fluctuate noticeably. I recommend checking official rates via the National Bank of Georgia before you travel.

Fun fact: Georgia tracks inflation using the Khachapuri Index, based on the cost of flour, milk, eggs and cheese – the basic ingredients of its national dish.

Cash & cards

Debit and credit cards (including contactless) are widely accepted in cities and towns across Georgia. In most cases there is no minimum spend, and no transaction fee add-on.

In rural areas, cash is still essential. Most towns have at least one ATM, but if you’re going remote, it’s a good idea to carry enough cash to cover your expenses. There is no issue with accepting creased or even torn banknotes, so don’t stress about keeping your lari pristine.

ATMs & Money Exchange

ATMs are easy to find in cities, towns, larger villages, and around tourist hubs. Most ATMs have a withdrawal limit of 400-500 GEL, and charge a 3-5 GEL transaction fee. Cartu Bank and Basisbank have higher withdrawal limits (up to 2,000 GEL).

Tip: Don’t confuse ATMs with payboxes – freestanding machines used for bills and top-ups. They do not dispense cash.

For most travellers, the best option is to withdraw GEL from an ATM. If you prefer to exchange, Rico Credit is a reputable office with exchange desks around Tbilisi and Georgia.

How Much Does a Trip to Georgia Cost?

Georgia is widely considered an affordable destination – and in my experience, that still holds true. The country continues to offer excellent value for money, but it is not the ‘super cheap’ backpacker mecca it once was.

According to the statistics, the average spend per person per night is around 400 GEL or 150 USD.

Prices have risen over the past couple of years due to inflation, fuel costs and the stronger lari. Costs are fairly consistent nationwide, with a few exceptions: Batumi in summer, Gudauri in ski season, and popular mountain hubs such as Kazbegi and Mestia, which tend to be slightly pricier. Kutaisi is generally cheaper than Tbilisi.

Typical prices in Tbilisi:

• Mid-range hotel room: 65-85 USD/night
• Single metro or bus fare: 1 GEL
• Taxi ride across town: 7-15 GEL
• Mid-range restaurant meal: 30-40 GEL per person
• Glass of Georgian wine: 5-15 GEL
• Cappuccino: 8-10 GEL
• Museum ticket: 15-30 GEL

⚑ Read next: Detailed break-down of travel costs in Georgia.

Average Budget For One Week in Georgia

Budget traveller: ~ USD 260 per week

Hostels, public transport, local eateries and bakeries, free attractions, and marshrutka travel. This style of travel is still possible in Georgia, but it requires careful budgeting and prioritising low-cost options.

Mid-range traveller: ~USD 600 per week

Guesthouses or mid-range hotels, regular dining out, taxis within cities, paid attractions, and a mix of public and private transport. Many travellers will find this represents the lower end of mid-range spending, particularly in Tbilisi.

High-end traveller: ~USD 1,500+ per week

Boutique accommodation or international hotels, higher-end restaurants, private transfers, guided tours, and more flexible travel choices. This reflects how a growing share of visitors travel today, especially on shorter trips.

Tipping in Georgia

Tipping is not traditionally part of the culture in Georgia and is not considered mandatory. That said, tipping has become more common in recent years, particularly in the cities. The common-sense approach applies: only tip if you’re happy with the service.

Knowing that wages in Georgia are generally low, I almost always tip unless the service was notably poor. In restaurants, cafes and bars, a gratuity of around 10% is standard. For food delivery and taxi rides, 1-3 GEL is appreciated. Around 15-20% is more appropriate for tour guides and drivers. Free walking tour guides typically rely entirely on tips, with 30-50 GEL being a reasonable amount depending on the length of the tour and the group size.

Tip: Most restaurants and cafes in Georgia add a 10% ‘service charge’ onto your bill. It’s widely known that this doesn’t go to the server, so if you want to be sure they receive a gratuity, leave an extra cash tip and try to hand it to them personally. By law, 18% VAT must now be rolled into the display price on restaurant menus.

SIM Cards & Mobile Data in Georgia

Georgia ranks pretty well for 5G mobile speeds globally (14th in the world, according to data from Ookla). For mobile, the average download speed is 169 Mbps, and the average upload speed is 20 Mbps. Fixed broadband does not perform quite as well.

Mobile network coverage exceeds 98-99% of populated areas. In rural areas, coverage can be more variable, but there are very few places in Georgia where you can’t get online.

Buying a Local SIM Card

Buying and activating a SIM card in Georgia is cheap and straightforward. Even for short trips, it’s worth setting aside 20 minutes of your time to buy a SIM so you can use maps and book taxis.

My preferred provider is Magti, which offers superior network coverage, fair pricing, and reliable support. Plans start from around 10 GEL/week for unlimited 5G. SIM cards can be purchased and activated in-store with your passport/ID.

eSIMs for Georgia

If you don’t want to visit a mobile shop or prefer to set everything up in advance, eSIMs are a convenient alternative. Global eSIMs (such as Airalo, Holafly) tend to default to a Georgian network that is less reliable, and travellers often have issues maintaining a good connection outside of Tbilisi.

Instead, I recommend purchasing an eSIM from a local providers. Both Magti and Silknet have eSIMs that you can pre-purchase online ahead of your trip (or in-store later). As an added bonus, they come with a local Georgian phone number, where global eSIMs rarely do.

⚑ Read next: Best SIM/eSIM providers for travellers.

Apps for Georgia

• 112 Georgia: Contact emergency services directly and send a GPS location (requires a local SIM/eSIM). Download for Android / Apple.
• Bolt: For booking taxis. Download for Android / Apple.
• Google Maps: Works perfectly for navigating public transport in Tbilisi.
• My Magti: For topping up your mobile balance with Magti. Download for Android / Apple.
• TKT.GE: For buying train and event tickets. Download for Android / Apple.
• Wikiloc: Offline trail maps for popular hikes. Download for Android / Apple.
• Wolt: Popular food delivery app. Download for Android / Apple.
• Yandex Translate: Translates written and spoken Georgian. Download for Android / Apple.
• Yr.no: The most reliable app for weather forecasts in Georgia. Download for Android / Apple.

What to Pack for Georgia

Georgia’s climate and terrain vary considerably – from hot lowland cities to cool mountain valleys – so it’s worth packing smart and flexible.

Clothing & Footwear

Georgia tends toward a neutral and modest dress code. In winter, black is predominant. Comfortable, practical clothes are the rule, while travellers should generally adhere to a dress code that errs on the conservative side – especially in rural areas.

Essential items:

• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers (to manage cobbled streets and hills)
• Light layers (T-shirts, long-sleeved tops, a sweater or fleece) to take you from the warm lowlands to cooler highlands (even in summer)
• A light rain jacket or windbreaker for spring and autumn showers
• Hiking boots if you plan on trekking
• A scarf or shawl – handy both for monasteries and chilly evenings
• Swimwear if you plan to visit the sulfur baths in Tbilisi or the coast

In churches and monasteries, modest clothing is expected. Women should bring a scarf for covering their shoulders and head, while both men and women should avoid shorts and sleeveless tops altogether.

If you are travelling in winter, a warm coat, thermal layers, gloves and a hat are necessary. Ski gear – including waterproof pants and jackets – can be hired on the slopes.

Power Adaptors & Electricity

Georgia uses Type C (Europlug) and Type F (Schuko) sockets. Plugs C, E and F all work in Georgia.

The standard voltage is 200 V, which means some electronics from the US – including most hair dryers – will not work here. In practice, this isn’t as issue: 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.

Medications & Essentials

While Georgian pharmacies stock many common medications, not all prescription brands or meds are available. Bring a sufficient supply of any needed medications, and keep prescriptions handy – especially for controlled drugs. Here is a list of banned medicines (PDF).

How to Get to Georgia

Flying to Georgia

Georgia has three international airports – in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi.

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) is the country’s largest and busiest gateway. More than 50 airlines fly direct to and from Tbilisi, connecting with more than 60 destinations around Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond.

Major carriers include:

• Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)
• Qatar Airways (Doha)
• flydubai (Dubai)
• British Airways & EasyJet (UK)
• Aegean Airlines, airBaltic and Red Wings (various European cities)
• IndiGo (New Delhi)
• Saudia Airlines (Riyadh)

Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) is the main entry point for low-cost airlines. Wizz Air operates direct services from many European cities, including destinations in Germany, Poland, Italy and the Baltics, while other carriers fly from Istanbul (Pegasus), Kazakhstan (FlyArystan), and beyond.

Batumi International Airport (BUS) also receives international flights, including connections from Turkey, the Middle East, and parts of Russia and Central Asia. Some routes are seasonal.

Entering Georgia by Land

Georgia’s land borders with Armenia, Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Russia are open to inbound international travellers. Generally speaking, entering Georgia overland is straightforward.

You can cross the border by foot, marshrutka van, private taxi, or in your own vehicle (if driving, you must buy compulsory insurance online or at the border).

From Armenia

There are three checkpoints along the Georgia-Armenia border. The most convenient for travellers are Bagratashen-Sadakhlo (for Yerevan to Tbilisi) and Bavra-Ninotsminda (for Gyumri or Yerevan to Akhaltsikhe).

⚑ Read next: Travelling between Tbilisi and Yerevan by train.

From Azerbaijan

There are two checkpoints along the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. Balakan-Lagodekhi is commonly used when travelling from Sheki or Qax. Red Bridge-Sixli, south-east of Tbilisi, is the most convenient for entering Georgia from Baku or Ganja.

Important: The Azerbaijan land border is only open to inbound travellers crossing into Georgia by foot. You cannot enter Azerbaijan overland (only by plane), and there is no cross-border transport in either direction. This restriction has been in place since 2020.

⚑ Read next: Travelling between Tbilisi and Baku by train.

From Türkiye

The busiest crossing on the Georgia-Türkiye border is Hopa-Sarpi, around 20 km south of Batumi. A second crossing at Posof-Vale may be more convenient if you’re coming from central Eastern Türkiye (Kars).

From Russia

There is only one land border crossing between Russia and Georgia, Verkhny Lars-Kazbegi, north of Tbilisi. Daily vans run between Vladikavkaz and Tbilisi via the Georgian Military Highway.

Airport Transfers

Tbilisi Airport to the City

To get to the city from Tbilisi Airport, you can use city bus #337, take a taxi (always booked through an app – never organised on the spot at the airport), or pre-arrange a private transfer.

⚑ For a full breakdown, see my Tbilisi Airport Guide.

Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi

If you are flying into Kutaisi and you want to go directly to Tbilisi, coach services are timed to depart the airport as flights land. Travel time to Tbilisi is approximately 4 hours.

⚑ For a full breakdown, see my Kutaisi Airport Guide.

Getting Around Georgia

Georgia is relatively straightforward to navigate around using a mix of public transportation and private drivers for more challenging routes or complex journeys.

City Transport

All cities and most towns in Georgia have public bus networks, with fares that are extremely affordable. Tbilisi also has a metro system. The basics of city transport are similar nationwide.

In Tbilisi, Google Maps works well for metro, city bus and microbus routes. In other cities, routes are mapped to Yandex Maps only.

Fares vary slightly by city. In Tbilisi, a single ride costs 1 GEL, while fares in Gori, Batumi and Kutaisi are lower. Transport cards can be purchased on arrival, and contactless international bank cards are accepted – though fares are roughly 50% higher than with a local card.

⚑ Read next: Full guide to using public transport in Tbilisi.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

As in many countries, street taxis in Georgia may overcharge tourists. To avoid this, always use a ride-hailing app rather than approaching a driver on the street. This is particularly important at airports.

My preferred app is Bolt (Uber does not work in Georgia). Bolt works in all major cities and larger towns, while Maxim is a good back-up app.

In smaller towns and rural areas, street taxis might be your only option. Try using Bolt to get an idea of the price (even if the app doesn’t let you book), and where possible, organise rides through your guesthouse.

⚑ Essential reading: Tips for using taxis in Tbilisi & Georgia.

GoTrip Georgia (Intercity Transfers)

GoTrip Georgia is an excellent local service for intercity transfers, day trips and custom driving itineraries with a private car and driver. Think of it as a long-distance Uber.

Prices are fixed in advance, drivers are vetted and reviewed, and you can stop as often as you like along the way – making it ideal for mountain routes and scenic journeys.

→ Visit the GoTrip website to start planning your route.

⚑ Read my first-hand review of GoTrip.ge.

Marshrutka Minivans

Marshrutkas are fixed-route minivans that connect virtually every city, town and village in Georgia. They’re inexpensive and frequent, but can be cramped and have limited luggage space.

Despite the discomfort, most travellers will use marshrutkas at least a few times – especially on popular intercity routes.

⚑ Read my complete guide to using marshrutka vans in Georgia, with fares & timetables.

⚑ See my detailed guide to Tbilisi’s main bus depot, Didube Station, with maps & a video tour.

Trains

Georgia’s rail network is limited to the west and parts of the south. The most useful route for travellers is Tbilisi–Batumi, which is served by modern Swiss Stadler trains, and takes around six hours.

Other routes use older rolling stock and can be slow and uncomfortable, particularly the so-called ‘electric trains’ on regional lines. The Tbilisi-Zugdidi and Tbilisi-Poti services are efficient and comfy, providing connections to Kutaisi (via Rioni) and Gori from Tbilisi.

Georgia’s scenic heritage line – the Kukushka train between Borjomi and Bakuriani – has been suspended since 2020.

⚑ See my complete guide to using trains in Georgia.

Driving & Car Hire

If you’re a confident driver, hiring a car is a great way to explore Georgia, particularly rural regions. Many rental agencies allow you to drive on your home licence for up to one year, and local providers are usually cheaper than international brands.

For standard cars and 4WDs, I recommend Local Rent. For overlanding and off-road travel, Martyna z Gruzji specialises in robust vehicles (use ‘wanderlush’ for 10% off).

⚑ Read my complete guide to driving in Georgia.

⚑ See my Georgia Road Trip Itinerary.

→ Follow the Roads Department on Facebook for seasonal road closures and updates on driving conditions.

Language & Cultural Etiquette

Do People Speak English in Georgia?

After Georgian – the country’s official language – the two most commonly spoken foreign languages are Russian and English. Older generations tend to speak Russian, while younger Georgians prefer to use English.

If you’re sticking to popular destinations such as Tbilisi, Batumi, Kazbegi, Svaneti, etc., you’ll have no trouble getting by with English alone. In rural areas, fewer people speak English – which is where a translation app can come in very handy.

Making an effort to learn a couple of basic Georgian phrases goes a long way. People genuinely appreciate it when visitors show an interest in the language.

Basic Georgian Phrases

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.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Although Georgia is quite conservative in some respects, it is generally a relaxed and welcoming place. That is to say, there aren’t many unspoken rules or social faux-pas to worry about, at least for foreigners.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Always greet your neighbours. If you’re staying in an apartment block or somewhere with a shared courtyard, saying hello is important. Not doing so might be considered impolite.
• Don’t be put off by serious expressions. Customer service is different in Georgia. Saying ‘thank you’ to shop attendants or bus drivers isn’t common, and you may get a puzzled look.
• Don’t interrupt a toast. Toasting is taken very seriously in Georgia, particularly at a supra. Let the toastmaster (Tamada) finish before speaking, and try not to change the topic.
• Haggle is context-specific. Respectful haggling is normal at markets, but not in shops or restaurants.
• Don’t worry about finishing your meal. Over-ordering is common, and leaving food on your plate isn’t judged. That said, it’s still worth being mindful of food waste.
• Be sensitive with politics. Political discussion isn’t taboo, but it’s best not to raise the topic first – especially with strangers. Let locals lead if the subject comes up.

Churches & Monasteries

The Orthodox Church is deeply revered in Georgia and continues to play an important role in modern society. Speaking disrespectfully about the church or the Patriarch is a big no-no.

When visiting churches, monasteries and other religious sites, visitors are expected to follow to the same dress and behaviour codes as locals.

• Women: Covered hair; covered shoulders; covered knees. In some cases a long skirt is required rather than trousers.
• Men: Covered knees; covered shoulders; uncovered head.

Most churches provide apron skirts and scarves that you can borrow, but some more remote sites do not. I always recommend dressing conservatively and carrying a lightweight cotton scarf with you.

Never smoke, run or shout on church grounds. Be discrete with your camera, and respect ‘no photo’ signs where they exist.

⚑ Read next: Must-visit churches in Tbilisi.

Drinking Culture & Supras

Alcohol is closely tied to Georgian hospitality, particularly at guesthouses and traditional feasts known as supras. Wine is the drink of choice, but guests are often also offered chacha, a potent (up to 70% proof) spirit made from grape pomace.

If you’re staying with hosts or joining a tour, you may find it difficult to decline alcohol once it’s offered – especially at a sit-down meal, where glasses are frequently refilled and toasting is taken seriously. While accepting a drink is polite, it’s acceptable to say no if you need to.

One important rule: never get into a car with a driver who has been drinking. If alcohol consumption starts to feel excessive or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.

Accommodation & Tours in Georgia

Where to Stay in Georgia

Georgia offers a nice variety of accommodations for every budget and comfort level. In cities, hotels are the most popular option, while Airbnb is widespread and works well for longer stays.

In smaller towns and rural areas, family-run guesthouses are often the best choice. Alongside private or shared rooms, many offer full board (excellent home cooking), and can help organise transport and local tours.

→ Browse Georgia accommodations on Booking.com, my preferred booking platform.

Day Tours

City tours and day trips in Georgia are generally quite affordable, making them a good option if you’re short on time or want to experience certain places with a local guide.

Viator offers a wide selection of tours, with secure payment and a flexible cancellation policy. As always, read reviews carefully and check the tour operator listed on the booking page.

Some local companies I recommend are:

• Friendly.ge – day trips from Tbilisi (use wanderlush for 10% off)
• Eat This! Tours – wine tours & harvest experiences in Kakheti (use wanderlush for 5% off)
• Budget Georgia – day trips & shared transfers from Kutaisi & Tbilisi (mention wanderlush for 10% off)

→ Browse Georgia tours on Viator, my preferred booking platform.

Eating & Drinking in Georgia

What to Expect from Georgian Food

Georgia is a foodie paradise. Whether you live to eat or just eat to live, exploring the country’s food scene will almost certainly be a highlight of your trip.

Georgian food is generous, comforting, and made to be shared – with a strong emphasis on carbs and dairy, particularly in mountain cuisines. Fresh produce is exceptional (Georgia has, in my opinion, the best tomatoes on earth), and a liberal use of herbs, spices and aromatics ensures that everything is full of flavour.

Georgia’s culinary strengths are threefold: a climate and landscape where almost anything grows, influences and flavours drawn from multiple neighbours, and a rich patchwork of local cuisines that differ markedly from one region to the next.

⚑ Essential resource: My favourite Georgian restaurants in Tbilisi.

⚑ Download my free PDF guide: Where to Find the Best Khinkali in Tbilisi.

Georgian Wine

Georgia is widely considered the cradle of wine. The country has more than 500 documented endemic grape varieties (many now extinct), and well over 10,000 wineries of various sizes, ranging from backyard cellars to large commercial producers.

Kakheti is the main wine region, but vines are cultivated almost everywhere – including in Kartli, Imereti, Guria, Racha, and Adjara. You might already be familiar with Saperavi and amber (skin-contact) wines.

Here are a few specific wines to seek out:

• Kisi – light and vibrant, with notes of pear and walnut
• Krakhuna – full-bodied amber wine with a straw-like colours
• Khvanchkara – a semi-sweet red from Racha, rich and berry-forward
• Otskhanuri Sapere – a tanic, high-acidity red native to Imereti
• Shavkapito – a versatile Kartli grape, used for excellent sparkling wines

For a deeper dive, the Wines of Georgia website is a great resource.

⚑ Read next: My Tbilisi Wine Guide (bars, tastings & wine shops).

Vegetarian & Vegan in Georgia

A surprisingly large number of Georgians fast several times a year for religious reasons. As a result, the vast majority of restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores with ready-made meals offer a ‘fasting menu’ (samarkhvo), featuring dishes free from animal products (note that some may still contain honey).

Vegetarians are very well catered for as many Georgian dishes are vegetarian by nature. Vegan travellers may find things a little more challenging, but dedicated veg and vegan-friendly restaurants are increasingly common in Tbilisi. Guesthouses will happily cater to special dietary needs as long as you give your host plenty of advance notice.

Special Dietary Needs

Travellers with allergies or specific dietary requirements should plan ahead. English-language menus are common, but staff may not always be familiar with terminology.

Mealtimes & Eating Out

Meals in Georgia are typically eaten a bit later than you might be used to (dinner at 9pm is common in summer). There is not really a traditional breakfast or brunch culture, though early-to-open cafes are becoming more common.

Most restaurants open around midday and serve food continuously until late evening. Meals are usually served family-style, with dishes placed in the centre of the table for sharing.

⚑ Read next: Restaurant etiquette in Georgia.

Georgian Handicrafts & Souvenirs

Georgia’s vibrant craft scene was one of the first things that drew me to 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.

⚑ Essential reading: Tbilisi souvenir shopping guide & map.

What to Buy in Georgia

Save some space in your luggage for these classic Georgian souvenirs:

• Lurji Supra: Georgia’s iconic ‘blue tablecloths’, printed with traditional medallions depicting fish, cutlery and food/folk motifs. The best examples are hand-printed on cotton in blue and white.
• Cloisonne enamel: A historic craft that remains popular. Look for delicate brooches, necklaces and rings made with colourful enamel.
• Clay pottery: Tricky to transport but oh-so beautiful. From simple ketsi clay dishes to painted wine jugs, Georgian pottery makes a lovely keepsake.
• Knitted slippers: A winter staple for indoor wear.
• Ajika & Georgian spices: Dry ajika, 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, churchkhela, tklapi fruit leather, jams and preserves (pine cone jam is especially unique) all make for great edible souvenirs.

Customs Rules & Export Restrictions

Most everyday souvenirs – including carpets, handicrafts, pottery, jewellery, spices and packaged food products – can be taken out of Georgia without issue, provided they are for personal use.

Items of cultural, historical or archaeological importance may be subject to export restrictions. This includes genuine antiques, manuscripts, icons, canvases, and potentially carpets or textiles. Such items require official permission from Georgia’s cultural heritage authorities before they can be exported.

If you’re buying anything old, rare or expensive – especially carpets or artwork – ask the seller whether export permission is required, and hold onto any documentation they give you. When in doubt, declare the item at customs.

Where to Go in Georgia

Georgia is a small country with an unusual amount of diversity – in its landscapes, cultures, and regional identities. Within a single day, you can move from high mountains to primordial forest to black sand beaches.

Here is a quick overview of the main places to visit.

⚑ See the full list: The best places to visit in Georgia this year.

⚑ Get off the beaten path: Alternative places to go in Georgia.

Tbilisi & around

Georgia’s capital, 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 special destination in its own right. 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 two full days to do Tbilisi justice, more if you want to incorporate a few easy day trips.

Within easy reach of the capital, you’ll find some of Georgia’s most interesting historical sites – from the old capital of Mtskheta and David Gareja, to Uplistsikhe and Gori, plus lesser-known places such as Bolnisi and Asureti, with their traces of German heritage.

⚑ Explore Tbilisi & Around.

Kakheti (Wine Region)

Georgia’s Kakheti region stretches from the Greater Caucasus in the north all the way 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 in nearby Kvemo Kartli and today, this is by far the country’s most productive wine region. The Alazani River Valley is the heart of Georgia’s contemporary wine-making industry, incorporating dozens of villages and chateaux along with the walled town of Sighnaghi and the city of Telavi.

Beyond the Wine Route, diverse Kakheti also holds the remote mountain region of Tusheti to the north, and the semi-desert Vashlovani Protected Area to the south.

⚑ Explore Kakheti Wine Region.

The Greater Caucasus Mountains

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 (northeastern highlands) and Svaneti (northwestern highlands) are the most popular mountain destinations, while lesser-visited Khevsureti and Racha-Lechkhumi offer a more rugged experience.

⚑ Explore Kazbegi & the Northeastern Highlands.

⚑ Explore Svaneti & the Northwestern Highlands.

Kutaisi & Imereti

Kutaisi doesn’t feature on every traveller’s itinerary – or if it does, it’s only as an arrival/departure point. Yet Georgia’s fourth-largest city and main hub in the west has its own 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.

Friendly 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 Imereti’s Rust Belt and Soviet-nostalgia destinations, including Tskaltubo and Chiatura.

⚑ Explore Kutaisi & Imereti.

Samegrelo & Guria (Western Georgia)

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.

⚑ Explore Samegrelo & Guria.

Batumi & the Black Sea Coast

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. Beyond the beach, mountainous Adjara is one of my favourite parts of Georgia.

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.

⚑ Explore Batumi & the Black Sea Coast.

Samtskhe-Javakheti (Southern Georgia)

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.

Akhaltsikhe, the regional capital, and Abastumani, an alternative spa town with ties to the Romanov family, are among the attractions in ancient Meskheti. The Javakheti Plateau, meanwhile, is a high-altitude volcanic landscape of craters and lakes, and the perfect place for cycling and birdwatching.

⚑ Explore Samtskhe-Javakheti.

Top Experiences 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).

⚑ Grab a copy of my free PDF guide: 365 Things to Do in Georgia.

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…

1. Go for a scrub-down at the Tbilisi sulfur baths
2. Drink wine from the qvevri in Kakheti
3. Drive on the epic Georgian Military Highway
4. Hike from Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity Church
5. Visit a medieval cave monastery
6. Go inside a tower house in UNESCO-listed Ushguli
7. Swim on a black-sand beach
8. Visit the semi-abandoned spa town of Tskaltubo
9. Stay at a family guesthouse in a small village
10. Ride on Stalin’s Rope Roads in Chiatura

Annual Festivals & Seasonal Events

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 & celebrations inside this Georgia Cultural Calendar.

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.
• August: Tushetoba – Tusheti’s folk fest spotlights Tush culture, cuisine and horsemanship.
• August: Bakhmaro Horse Race – This tradition takes place on Bakhmaro mountain in Guria.
• August/September: 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 Itinerary Ideas

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.

• Meskheti: Georgia’s up-and-coming foodie hotspot (in my opinion, anyway), ancient Meskheti region has a unique cuisine that includes apokhti khinkali filled with dried meat, pulled tenili cheese, and Georgian-style escargot. Read my full guide to Mestkhetian cuisine and food experiences around Akhaltsikhe and Vardzia.
• 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 one of the places 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.
• Rustavi: This former Soviet monotown and now bustling small city is filled with architecture from the 1940s and 1950s. See my Rustavi Day Trip Guide for all the highlights.
• 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.

Onward Travel from Georgia

Overland to Armenia or Azerbaijan

Many people choose to bundle at least two of the three South Caucasus nations into the one trip. You’ll find that both Armenia and Azerbaijan are a contrast to Georgia in many ways – 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. Find everything you need to know about using the overnight sleeper trains in these guides:

⚑ Tbilisi to Yerevan sleeper train.

⚑ Tbilisi to Baku sleeper train.

Another option is to travel by marshrutka into Northern Armenia via Georgia’s Javakheti region, or to Sheki in Azerbaijan via Kakheti.

A reminder that Azerbaijan’s land borders are temporarily closed to inbound travellers. There are half a dozen daily direct flights from Tbilisi to Baku.

Remember the land border between Armenia and Azerbaijan is permanently closed, so you will need to travel back through Georgia if you want to visit both countries in succession. Despite what some people will tell you, there are no restrictions on visiting Azerbaijan after Armenia or vice versa.

Read next:

⚑ My Travel Guide for Armenia.

⚑ My Travel Guide for Azerbaijan.

Overland to Türkiye

There are frequent flights to Istanbul and other destinations in Türkiye from all three of Georgia’s international airports. Or you can travel overland via either of the two land crossings at Sarpi (outside Batumi) and Vale-Posof.

Onward travel from the Sarpi border is much easier, with frequent connections to major Turkish cities.

⚑ Read next: My first-timer Istanbul Itinerary.

Flights to the Middle East

Direct flights from Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi link Georgia with Doha, Riyadh and Dubai, offering easy one-stop connections to Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Extended layovers in the Gulf are particularly popular and easy to arrange.

⚑ Read next: My suggestions for an extended layover in Qatar.

⚑ Read next: My itinerary for an extended layover in Dubai (published soon).

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

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.