If Georgia (the country) features on your travel wish list, then I have good news for you: Now is high time to come to Georgia!
It is a small but very significant country in the South Caucasus with relatively easy access but with enough sense of adventure. In most places in Georgia it is even possible to get a fairly decent sense of independence while at the same time, there are moments you get the feeling that you are very much on the road less traveled and that not many people have trudged before you.
Creative Georgia Travel Magazine ideas
Over the past few months travelling Georgia and living in Tbilisi, one thing I’ve realized is that everyone has their Georgia. So, as they, and I, do many people fall in love and end up moving here.
I adore Georgia, piece of my heart but I also have a heads up about the triumphs and the trials of travelling there. Since I began my georgia travel blog back in 2017, I have at all times strived to give the complete accurate picture.
All my knowledge and experiences are combined in this Georgia Travel Guide. From getting around, risk and cost, to dealing with locals, and Responsible tourism considerations.
How to Get to Georgia
Georgia’s strategic location makes it accessible from various parts of the world.
By Air
- Tbilisi International Airport (TBS): The main gateway, offering direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Kutaisi International Airport (KUT): A hub for budget airlines like Wizz Air, ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
- Batumi International Airport (BUS): Convenient for travelers heading to the Black Sea coast.
By Land
- From Turkey: Cross the Sarpi border into Batumi.
- From Armenia: Multiple crossings, including Sadakhlo and Bavra.
- From Azerbaijan: The Red Bridge crossing connects Baku to Tbilisi.
- From Russia: The Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) crossing is the only open land border.
Visa Requirements
Georgia offers visa-free entry for citizens of over 90 countries, including the EU, USA, Canada, and Gulf nations. Check the official Georgian government website for the latest requirements.
Georgia Travel Guide
This comprehensive travel guide will show you how to plan your trip to Georgia from start to finish. Structured around frequently asked questions, it offers a wealth of useful tips and advice – including plenty of insider information you won’t find in any guidebook
This guide is long and in-depth, so be prepared! When you reach the end, I promise you will come out the other side better prepared for the journey.
If you don’t have time to read everything or are only partially organizing, feel free to continue using the links below.
Top Places to Visit in Georgia
1. Tbilisi: The Vibrant Capital
- Explore the Old Town with its cobblestone streets, sulfur baths, and colorful balconies.
- Visit landmarks like Narikala Fortress, the Peace Bridge, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
- Experience the lively nightlife and trendy cafes.
2. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
- Witness the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against the backdrop of Mount Kazbek.
- Enjoy hiking, paragliding, and nature photography in this mountainous paradise.
3. Batumi: The Black Sea Gem
- Stroll along the Batumi Boulevard and admire its modern architecture.
- Relax on the beaches and explore the Botanical Gardens.
- Don’t miss the Ali and Nino statue, symbolizing eternal love.
4. Svaneti
- Discover the medieval towers of Mestia and Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Go trekking in the pristine Caucasus Mountains.
5. Kakheti: The Wine Region
- Tour the vineyards and wineries, sampling Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions.
- Visit the Alaverdi Monastery and Sighnaghi, the “City of Love.”
Best Time to Visit Georgia
Georgia is a year-round destination:
- Spring (March to May): Blooming landscapes and mild weather.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for mountain trekking and seaside relaxation.
- Autumn (September to November): Grape harvest season with vibrant fall colors.
- Winter (December to February): Skiing in Gudauri and Bakuriani.
Transportation in Georgia
Domestic Travel
- Marshrutkas: Affordable minibuses connecting cities and towns.
- Trains: Comfortable options between major cities like Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi.
- Taxis and Ridesharing: Apps like Bolt and Yandex Taxi make getting around easy.
- Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring remote regions.
Getting Around Cities
- Public Buses: Economical and frequent.
- Metro: Available in Tbilisi, with two lines covering key areas.
Tips for Traveling to Georgia
- Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller towns.
- Language: Georgian is the official language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
- Safety: Georgia is one of the safest countries in the region for travelers.
- Local Etiquette: Respect religious sites and dress modestly when visiting churches.
Georgia Travel Costs
- Accommodation: Budget hostels from $10, mid-range hotels $30–$70, luxury stays $100+.
- Food: Affordable; a traditional meal costs around $5–$10.
- Transportation: Marshrutkas and public buses are very economical.
Must-Try Georgian Dishes
- Khachapuri: Cheesy bread, often shaped like a boat.
- Khinkali: Juicy dumplings filled with meat or cheese.
- Lobio: Bean stew served with cornbread.
- Churchkhela: A sweet treat made of nuts and grape juice.