Georgia Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Georgia

Georgia is a compact but remarkably diverse country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is known for Tbilisi’s historic streets, ancient wine culture, dramatic Caucasus mountains, Black Sea coast, cave cities, medieval monasteries, hiking routes, traditional hospitality and one of the region’s most distinctive cuisines.

The capital is Tbilisi. The official currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Georgia uses Georgia Standard Time, UTC+4, throughout the year and does not observe daylight saving time.

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport and entry requirements

Entry requirements for Georgia depend on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel and intended duration of stay. Citizens of many countries, including EU, UK, US, Canadian and Australian passport holders, can normally enter visa-free for substantial periods, but travellers must verify the current rules for their exact nationality before departure.

Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date.
Check whether your nationality is visa-exempt or requires a visa before travelling.
Visitors may be asked to show accommodation details, proof of funds, travel insurance and onward or return tickets.
Entry is decided by Georgian border authorities, even if you are normally visa-exempt.
Overstaying can lead to fines, problems at departure and future immigration restrictions.

Official visa and consular information: Georgia Consular Services Portal.

Official government information: Government of Georgia.

Travel insurance requirement

Georgia has introduced travel health and accident insurance requirements for many foreign visitors. Rules can change, so confirm the required minimum coverage, valid insurers and documentation before departure. Carry a certificate in English or Georgian where possible.

Choose cover for emergency treatment, mountain rescue, medical evacuation and repatriation.
Ensure the policy covers skiing, trekking, horse riding and other planned activities.
Carry the policy certificate and insurer’s emergency contact number offline.
Do not rely only on a credit-card policy without checking its limits and exclusions.

Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Do not attempt to enter Abkhazia or South Ossetia from Russia or travel close to the administrative boundary lines without checking official travel advice. These regions are not controlled by the Georgian government, and entry from Russia can be illegal under Georgian law. Foreign consular support may be unavailable or severely limited.

Useful travel documents

Passport and visa where required.
Travel health and accident insurance certificate.
Return or onward travel ticket.
Accommodation reservation or host address.
International driving permit if renting a car.
Vehicle registration, insurance and border documents if entering with your own vehicle.
Digital and printed copies of passport, insurance, accommodation and emergency contacts.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Health preparation

Georgia has private clinics and hospitals in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and other larger towns, but medical standards and English-language support can vary. Mountain regions, remote valleys and rural destinations may have limited medical facilities and difficult evacuation options.

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Discuss hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus and rabies advice with a travel clinic if you plan outdoor or rural travel.
Carry regular prescription medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Pack a basic first-aid kit for trekking, road trips and ski holidays.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and oral rehydration salts in warmer months.

Travel health insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is important, especially for hiking in Svaneti, Kazbegi or Tusheti, skiing in Gudauri, horse trekking, driving mountain roads or visiting remote villages.

Check whether mountain rescue and helicopter evacuation are covered.
Confirm altitude limits, winter-sports cover and off-road driving exclusions.
Ensure your insurer covers treatment in private clinics and medical repatriation.
Save the insurer’s emergency assistance number before entering remote areas.

Food and water safety

Tap water is generally safe in Tbilisi and several larger urban areas, but water quality can vary in rural locations. Bottled or filtered water is widely available and is a sensible option for visitors with sensitive stomachs.

Choose freshly prepared food at busy restaurants and markets.
Wash fruit and vegetables where possible.
Drink extra water during summer, wine tours and mountain excursions.
Be careful with homemade spirits and excessive alcohol consumption.

Altitude and mountain safety

Many trekking and ski destinations are at high altitude. Acclimatise gradually, stay hydrated, know the signs of altitude sickness and turn back or descend if symptoms become severe.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

General safety

Georgia is generally considered a safe destination for independent travel. Violent crime against visitors is uncommon, but petty theft, taxi overcharging, road accidents and risky mountain conditions remain important concerns.

Keep passports, phones, cash and cards secure in crowded markets, transport hubs and nightlife districts.
Use reputable taxi apps, official taxis or hotel-arranged transfers.
Do not leave valuables visible in parked vehicles.
Use ATMs attached to banks or secure shopping centres where possible.
Be cautious with unsolicited offers for tours, taxis or currency exchange.
Keep a copy of your passport separate from the original.

Road safety

Road travel can be challenging. Driving styles may be aggressive, mountain roads can be narrow or unpaved, and conditions can change rapidly due to rain, snow, landslides or livestock on roads.

Avoid driving at night outside major cities.
Use an experienced local driver for remote mountain routes if you lack experience.
Do not rely on ordinary cars for difficult roads in Tusheti, high mountain passes or remote valleys.
Carry water, food, warm layers, offline maps and extra fuel on long road trips.
Check road conditions before travelling to Kazbegi, Svaneti, Racha, Tusheti or ski areas.

Mountain and winter safety

Use licensed guides for glacier routes, remote trekking and technical mountain activities.
Check avalanche warnings before skiing or snowboarding.
Do not hike alone on unmarked or remote trails.
Tell accommodation staff or family about your route and expected return time.
Carry offline navigation, a power bank and sufficient food and water.

Restricted and disputed areas

Do not travel to Abkhazia or South Ossetia. Avoid the administrative boundary lines and follow official advice for areas near the Russian border. Consular assistance may be unavailable in these regions.

Official travel advice

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

Unified emergency number: 112
Police, ambulance and fire service: 112
Tourist information hotline: 0 800 800 909
Emergency hotline for foreign citizens: +995 32 241 96 96
Road assistance: 116 001
Georgia National Tourism Administration: +995 32 243 69 99

Georgia uses 112 as its integrated emergency number for police, ambulance and fire services. It is free to call and should work from mobile phones, including phones without local credit where network access is available.

Official emergency information: Georgia 112 Emergency Response Centre.

Emergency planning checklist

Save 112, your insurer’s emergency number and embassy contacts before travel.
Carry your hotel or guesthouse address in Georgian and English.
Tell someone your route before hiking, skiing or driving to remote mountain areas.
Keep offline maps, water, warm layers, food and a power bank with you on long journeys.
Call 112 for a serious accident, medical emergency, fire or crime.
Contact your insurer promptly if evacuation, hospital treatment or rescue becomes necessary.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance

Tbilisi hosts embassies and consulates from many countries. Contact your responsible mission if you lose your passport, are arrested, become seriously ill, experience a serious accident or need emergency travel documents.

Useful embassy and consular links

United States Embassy contact

U.S. Embassy Tbilisi: +995 32 227 70 00.
Address: 29 Georgian-American Friendship Avenue, Didi Dighomi, Tbilisi.

Verify current office hours, emergency contact details and appointment requirements directly on the relevant embassy website before travel.

6. Background on Georgia & Society

Country overview

Georgia lies in the South Caucasus between the Black Sea, Russia, Türkiye, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Its landscapes range from subtropical coast and vineyards to high Caucasus peaks, glaciers, forests, semi-desert and alpine valleys.

Georgia has a long history shaped by ancient kingdoms, Orthodox Christianity, Silk Road trade, Persian, Ottoman and Russian influence, Soviet rule and modern independence. It is internationally known for its hospitality, polyphonic singing, wine-making traditions, mountain villages and distinctive alphabet.

Language, religion and culture

Official language: Georgian.
Writing system: Georgian script, which is distinct from Latin and Cyrillic alphabets.
Other languages: Russian is widely understood by many older people; English is increasingly common among younger people and in tourism.
Religion: Georgian Orthodox Christianity is the largest religious tradition.
Culture: Georgia is strongly associated with wine, supra feasts, traditional dance, music, crafts and regional cuisines.

Etiquette and respectful behaviour

Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries.
Women may be asked to cover shoulders or wear a headscarf at some religious sites.
Men may be asked to avoid shorts in churches and monasteries.
Remove hats when entering churches.
Respect local toasts during a supra, the traditional Georgian feast.
Do not feel pressured to drink alcohol; politely decline if needed.
Ask permission before photographing people, religious ceremonies and rural homes.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Georgia has significant climate variation. Tbilisi has hot summers and cool winters, the Black Sea coast around Batumi is humid and subtropical, Kakheti has dry vineyard conditions, and the Greater Caucasus mountains experience alpine weather, snow and rapid changes in temperature.

Best time to visit

April to June: Mild conditions, spring landscapes and good city or wine-region travel.
July to September: Best for high mountain trekking, Svaneti, Kazbegi and hiking routes.
September to October: Wine harvest season, autumn colours and pleasant temperatures.
December to March: Ski season in Gudauri, Bakuriani and mountain resorts.

Clothing recommendations

Use layers in spring and autumn because weather can change quickly.
Bring a waterproof jacket for Batumi, Svaneti and mountain routes.
Wear hiking boots for uneven trails, monasteries, mountain valleys and rural roads.
Pack warm clothing, gloves and hat for high-altitude nights, even in summer.
Bring sun protection, sunglasses and water for Kakheti, Tbilisi and summer travel.
Wear modest clothing for churches, monasteries and conservative rural areas.

Weather hazards

Snow, ice and avalanche risk in mountain regions during winter.
Landslides, rockfalls and road closures after heavy rain.
Flash flooding in mountain valleys and coastal areas.
Rapid weather changes at altitude.
Strong sun and dehydration during summer hiking and wine tours.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

Official language: Georgian.
Russian: Widely understood by many older people, though not always preferred in every context.
English: Common in tourism, hotels, younger communities and central Tbilisi, but less widespread in rural areas.

Useful Georgian phrases

Hello: Gamarjoba
Thank you: Madloba
Please: Tu sheidzleba
Yes: Ki
No: Ara
Excuse me: Bodishi
How much is this? Ra ghirs?
Where is the station? Sad aris sadguri?
Do you speak English? Inglisurad laparakobt?
Cheers: Gaumarjos

Internet, SIM cards and mobile data

Georgia has good mobile coverage and affordable data in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and many tourist regions. Coverage can be weaker in high mountain valleys, remote villages and trekking areas.

Major providers include Magti, Silknet and Cellfie Mobile.
Buy a local SIM or eSIM from an official shop and bring your passport for registration.
Download offline maps before travelling to Svaneti, Kazbegi, Tusheti and remote hiking areas.
Carry a power bank for road trips, mountain hikes and long marshrutka journeys.
Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, hotels and many city public areas.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Georgia

Voltage: 220 V.
Frequency: 50 Hz.
Plug types: Type C and Type F, using two round pins.

Adapter and converter advice

Travellers from Germany, Austria and many European countries can generally use Type C or Type F plugs directly. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and countries using other socket types will generally need a travel adapter.

Most modern phone, laptop and camera chargers support 100–240 V. Check your device labels before departure. Bring a power bank and spare cable for mountain trips and rural travel.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Georgia’s official currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Cash is widely used, particularly in rural areas, markets, family-run guesthouses and mountain villages. Cards are accepted increasingly in cities and tourist destinations.

Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for GEL.

Payments and cash

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, larger hotels and established restaurants.
Cash is essential in villages, mountain areas, markets and some smaller guesthouses.
ATMs are common in cities but may be scarce or unavailable in remote areas.
Use bank ATMs and official exchange offices rather than informal money changers.
Carry small notes for marshrutkas, taxis, tips, markets and rural purchases.

Price level

Georgia is generally affordable compared with Western Europe, North America, Australia and Switzerland. Local food, guesthouses, wine, shared transport and taxis can offer very good value, while premium hotels, private drivers, mountain guides and high-season ski or trekking trips can cost more.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but usually not mandatory.
In restaurants, around 5–10% may be appropriate if service is not included.
Check bills because some restaurants add service charges automatically.
Tip guides, drivers and guesthouse staff for good service.
Agree taxi prices before travelling if using a non-app taxi.

11. Transport & Arrival

Main airports

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS): Main international gateway for the capital and eastern Georgia.
Kutaisi International Airport (KUT): Major low-cost gateway for central and western Georgia.
Batumi International Airport (BUS): Gateway for the Black Sea coast and Adjara region.

Official airport information: Tbilisi International Airport.

Airport and aviation information: United Airports of Georgia.

Rail and intercity travel

Georgia has rail connections between Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi-area stations, Zugdidi and other major locations. Trains can be comfortable for selected routes, while marshrutkas, shared taxis and private drivers are more common for mountain destinations.

Georgian Railway: Useful for Tbilisi–Batumi and several major intercity routes.
Marshrutkas: Shared minibuses connecting cities, towns and villages.
Shared taxis: Common for regional routes and can be faster than marshrutkas.
Private drivers: Often best for flexible mountain road trips.
Domestic flights: Limited, but useful for selected remote areas when operational.

Official railway information: Georgian Railway.

Tbilisi public transport

Tbilisi Metro: Fast and affordable way to move around the city.
City buses: Extensive network, increasingly modern and digital.
Funicular: Connects central Tbilisi with Mtatsminda Park.
Travel card: MetroMoney card and contactless payment options may be available.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

App-based taxis are generally more transparent than street taxis. Confirm the vehicle registration, pickup point and fare before entering the car.

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation types

Luxury hotels: Available in Tbilisi, Batumi, wine regions and ski resorts.
Boutique hotels: Common in Tbilisi Old Town, Sighnaghi, Kutaisi and heritage areas.
Guesthouses: Widespread and often family-run, especially in rural areas and mountains.
Homestays: Popular in Svaneti, Kazbegi, Tusheti, Racha and wine villages.
Hostels: Available in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Mestia and backpacker destinations.
Mountain huts and camps: Used on multi-day trekking routes; facilities can be basic.
Ski resorts: Hotels, apartments and guesthouses in Gudauri and Bakuriani.

Recommended areas to stay

Tbilisi Old Town: Historic streets, restaurants, sulphur baths and central sights.
Rustaveli Avenue: Museums, theatres, shops and central transport access.
Vera: Cafés, nightlife, boutique hotels and central location.
Batumi Boulevard: Seafront hotels, restaurants and beach access.
Mestia: Main base for Svaneti trekking and mountain culture.
Stepantsminda/Kazbegi: Base for Gergeti Trinity Church and Caucasus hikes.
Sighnaghi: Wine region, historic town walls and Kakheti countryside.

Opening hours and shopping

Supermarkets, cafés and restaurants in Tbilisi and Batumi often stay open late.
Markets are usually busiest in the morning and early afternoon.
Government offices and banks close on public holidays.
Small mountain shops may have limited hours and limited stock.
Carry cash, snacks, water, medicine and warm clothing before travelling to remote areas.

Shopping and markets

Dezerter Bazaar, Tbilisi: Food, spices, cheese, wine and local produce.
Dry Bridge Market, Tbilisi: Antiques, art, books, souvenirs and vintage items.
Meidan Bazaar, Tbilisi: Wine, crafts, spices and souvenirs in the Old Town.
Batumi Fish Market: Fresh seafood and local restaurants.
Sighnaghi and Kakheti: Wine, churchkhela, spices and regional crafts.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Georgian food culture

Georgian cuisine is one of the country’s strongest attractions. It is known for bread, cheese, herbs, walnuts, grilled meat, vegetable dishes, dumplings and traditional wines made in clay qvevri vessels.

Typical Georgian dishes

Khachapuri: Cheese-filled bread, with regional forms such as Adjarian khachapuri topped with egg and butter.
Khinkali: Large soup dumplings filled with meat, mushrooms, cheese or potato.
Badrijani nigvzit: Fried aubergine rolls with walnut paste.
Lobio: Bean stew, often served with bread and pickles.
Mtsvadi: Georgian grilled meat skewers.
Pkhali: Vegetable and walnut spreads, often made with spinach or beetroot.
Chakapuli: Herb-rich lamb or veal stew, often associated with spring.
Ojakhuri: Fried meat and potatoes, often served in a clay dish.
Churchkhela: Nuts threaded on string and coated in thickened grape juice.

Wine and drinks

Georgian wine: Georgia is one of the world’s oldest wine regions, particularly famous for Kakheti.
Qvevri wine: Traditional wine made in buried clay vessels.
Chacha: Strong grape pomace spirit.
Georgian mineral water: Borjomi and other mineral waters are widely available.
Tea: Common in homes and mountain regions.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

Food hygiene is generally good in established restaurants and popular guesthouses. Vegetarian options are widely available because Georgian cuisine has many bean, cheese, vegetable and walnut dishes. Vegan travellers should ask about cheese, butter, eggs and animal stock.

Choose busy restaurants and freshly prepared dishes.
Ask about walnuts, dairy and gluten if you have allergies.
Khinkali may contain meat broth; ask before ordering vegetarian versions.
Drink bottled or filtered water if you are unsure about local supply quality.
Drink alcohol moderately, particularly when joining traditional toasts.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

Time zone: Georgia Standard Time, UTC+4.
Daylight saving time: Georgia does not observe daylight saving time.
Difference from Central Europe: Usually three hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and two hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually four hours ahead in winter and three hours ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

New Year’s Day: 1 January.
Bedoba: 2 January.
Orthodox Christmas: 7 January.
Orthodox Epiphany: 19 January.
Mother’s Day: 3 March.
International Women’s Day: 8 March.
National Unity Day: 9 April.
Victory Day: 9 May.
Independence Day: 26 May.
Assumption of Mary: 28 August.
Svetitskhovloba: 14 October.
Saint George’s Day: 23 November.

Banks, public offices and some businesses close on national holidays. Accommodation and transport can become busy around Orthodox Christmas, Easter, Independence Day, wine harvest season and ski holidays.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Tbilisi and central Georgia

Tbilisi Old Town: Historic lanes, balconies, churches, cafés and sulphur baths.
Narikala Fortress: Hilltop fortress with views over Tbilisi.
Abanotubani: Historic sulphur-bath district.
Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi: Major Georgian Orthodox cathedral.
Georgian National Museum: History, archaeology and art collections.
Mtatsminda Park: Hilltop park and city panoramas.
Mtskheta: Ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage town near Tbilisi.
Uplistsikhe: Ancient cave city carved into rock.

Greater Caucasus and mountain regions

Kazbegi/Stepantsminda: Mountain town and gateway to Gergeti Trinity Church.
Gergeti Trinity Church: Iconic mountain church beneath Mount Kazbek.
Georgian Military Highway: Scenic route between Tbilisi and the Russian border.
Svaneti: Dramatic mountain region known for defensive towers and trekking.
Mestia: Main town in Upper Svaneti and base for multi-day hikes.
Ushguli: High-altitude village complex beneath Mount Shkhara.
Tusheti: Remote mountain region, generally accessible only in warmer months.
Gudauri: Ski resort and winter-sports destination.

Wine regions, coast and heritage

Kakheti: Wine region with vineyards, qvevri wineries and monasteries.
Sighnaghi: Walled hill town with views over the Alazani Valley.
Telavi: Kakheti regional centre and base for wine travel.
Batumi: Black Sea resort city with boulevard, architecture, beaches and nightlife.
Martvili Canyon: River canyon and boat trips in western Georgia.
Prometheus Cave: Large cave system near Kutaisi.
Vardzia: Medieval cave monastery complex in southern Georgia.
Borjomi: Mineral-water town, parks and access to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.

Official tourism information: Georgia Travel – Official Tourism Website.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Tbilisi has the country’s strongest nightlife scene, including wine bars, craft beer venues, jazz clubs, electronic music, late-night restaurants and cultural spaces. Batumi offers beachside nightlife, casinos, hotels and summer entertainment, while Kutaisi and wine towns are more relaxed.

Tbilisi Old Town: Wine bars, restaurants, live music and historic atmosphere.
Fabrika: Hostel complex, design studios, bars, cafés and events.
Rustaveli and Vera: Restaurants, theatres, cocktail bars and cultural venues.
Bassiani: Internationally known electronic-music venue; check current entry rules and event status.
Batumi Boulevard: Restaurants, beach bars, casinos and summer nightlife.

Festivals and events

Tbilisoba: Tbilisi city festival with food, music, crafts and cultural events.
Rtveli: Autumn wine harvest season in Kakheti.
New Wine Festival: Spring wine event in Tbilisi.
Black Sea Jazz Festival: Major music event in Batumi.
Art-Gene Festival: Folk music, crafts and culture.
Orthodox Easter and Christmas: Religious observances and local traditions.
Ski-season events: Winter competitions and après-ski activities in Gudauri and Bakuriani.

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