Georgia: Practical Information
Georgia is a country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that is becoming increasingly popular among travellers. Are you planning a visit to this fascinating corner of the Caucasus? If so, it’s worth preparing well to enjoy everything Georgia offers. This practical guide will help you organize your trip—from visa requirements and border crossing to getting around the country by car or public transport and staying safe during mountain hikes.
You’ll learn about insurance and driving permits, the best public transport options in cities, and what to remember when planning a trek in the Georgian Caucasus. I’ll also share tips on finding the right accommodation to immerse yourself in Georgia’s authentic atmosphere. Safety, comfort, and a deep connection with local culture are the keys to a successful trip—and this post will help you achieve them.
Important: Before your journey, check the latest security announcements about Georgia and read about the latest recommendations for tourists and safety rules.
Georgia: Do You Need a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa for Georgia is a travel document that allows visitors to explore the country for tourism purposes. It’s a temporary permit issued by the Georgian government for foreigners wishing to discover the country’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions. A tourist visa allows activities such as travelling, sightseeing, attending cultural events, and experiencing the local culture.
Click the link below to check if you need a visa for Georgia. Citizens of the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States generally do not require one.
Healthcare and Medical Services in Georgia
While Georgia does not require vaccinations for tourists, it’s important to remember that access to medical care, especially in remote areas, can be limited. In larger cities like Tbilisi or Batumi, modern private clinics offer high-quality services, but visits can be expensive.
That’s why purchasing health insurance before your trip is highly recommended. It should cover treatment costs and potential medical evacuation. Pharmacies are well-stocked, but medications might differ from those in your home country. Bring basic medical supplies and any prescriptions for medications you take regularly.
Roaming and Phone Communication in Georgia – How to Avoid High Costs
When travelling to Georgia, it’s a good idea to consider the cost of phone calls and data usage in advance. Georgia is not part of the European Union, so standard EU roaming rules, which allow phone usage without extra charges, do not apply. Using your home SIM card in Georgia could lead to remarkably high costs, so exploring alternative options is worthwhile.
Buying a Local SIM Card
The best and most cost-effective solution is to buy a Georgian SIM card, ideally right after your arrival. The three leading operators in Georgia are Magti, Geocell (Silknet), and Beeline. SIM cards are available at airports, shopping centres, kiosks, and operator outlets. The process is straightforward—usually, you only need to show your passport.
Advantages of Using a Local SIM Card
- Affordable Internet Packages: 5 GB of data costs only 10-15 GEL (about 3,5 -5,5$).
- No Roaming Charges: Enjoy cheap local calls and SMS.
- Good Coverage: There is strong signal quality in cities and tourist areas, though remote mountain regions may have limited service.
Using International eSIM Cards
If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can purchase an international eSIM card before your trip. Many platforms offer plans tailored to travellers, providing internet access without needing a physical SIM card.
Benefits of eSIM
- Quick Activation: No need to search for a sales point.
- Keep Your Home Number: This is useful for receiving essential calls.
- Competitive Data Plans: Often comparable in price to local SIM cards.
Using Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in larger cities, hotels, restaurants, and airports. If you primarily use the internet for communication apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, relying on Wi-Fi can significantly cut costs.
Tips for Using Wi-Fi
- Always ensure the network is password-protected to avoid security risks.
- Consider using a VPN app to protect your data when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
Roaming Offers from your Home Operators
If you prefer to use your Home SIM card, check whether your operator offers special roaming packages for Georgia. Many networks (e.g., T-Mobile) provide limited calls, SMS, and data plans to help you avoid excessive bills.
Example Packages
- Daily Data Bundles: For instance, 500 MB per day for a few euros.
- One-Time Data Packs: Such as 1 GB for a week.
Roaming or Sim Card – What to Choose?
A local SIM or eSIM is the most cost-effective option for an extended stay or intensive internet use. A roaming package from your home operator and available Wi-Fi networks may be sufficient for short trips or occasional internet usage.
Currency in Georgia – What You Need to Know Before Traveling
The official currency of Georgia is the lari (GEL), divided into 100 tetri. Before your trip, it is useful to learn the basics of currency exchange and using payment cards in Georgia.
Currency Exchange
In Georgia, you can easily exchange US dollars (USD), euros (EUR), or British pounds (GBP) for local currency. The best rates are usually at exchange offices in major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, or Signagi. These offices don’t charge commissions, and the process is quick and safe. Most operate late into the evening, and some are even open 24/7.
Payment Cards and ATMs
In larger cities, hotels, and restaurants, paying by card is generally not a problem. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, cash is still preferred. ATMs are widely available, but using a foreign card may incur additional fees. Check with your bank about charges before your trip.
Practical Tips
- Avoid exchanging money at the airport—exchange rates are often less favourable.
- If you bring dollars or euros, ensure the banknotes are in good condition. Torn, damaged, or marked notes may not be accepted.
- Carry small-denomination cash, especially for shopping at local markets or paying for taxis.
- Check currency exchange offices in your hometown before your trip. Georgian lari may be available in small amounts. Buying a few hundred lari beforehand can be helpful for your first few days, allowing you to pay for bus tickets, taxis, or small purchases upon arrival. Having cash on hand will make your journey to the hotel smoother.
Georgia: Where to Stay. Hotels
Georgia offers accommodation options to suit every need and budget. The choices are incredibly diverse—from simple tourist hotels to modern and luxurious establishments. While some hotels still reflect the charm of a bygone era and offer more modest conditions, they are always clean and exceptionally affordable. Georgian hospitality, renowned worldwide, ensures every guest feels at home. This welcoming atmosphere makes staying in Georgia a unique experience, regardless of your chosen standard.
While travelling in Georgia, I stayed in tourist hotels and 3-4* hotels. Below are my recommendations (all checked), with ♥ indicating my favourites:
Resident Plaza hotel – Tbilisi♥
Resident Plaza Hotel is a 4-star hotel offering elegant and spacious rooms.
Best Western – Gudauri♥
It is a new, 4-star hotel with elegant and spacious rooms. It’s an incredible location, just 200 meters from the ski lifts, surrounded by mountain peaks, highly recommended. The only downside is the transit road behind the hotel, with trucks passing throughout the night. More information is on the Best Western Hotel website.
Georgian House – Kutaisi
It is centrally located but past its prime. The Wi-Fi can be unstable. It is budget-friendly and perfect for a one-night stay or a quick transfer.
Sani Hotel – Kutaisi♥
Sani Hotel is a cosy, 3-star hotel with large, simply furnished rooms and a friendly staff. It features a lovely garden and a large, free parking area.
New Wave Hotel – Batumi♥
This modern 4-star hotel has elegant and well-equipped rooms. The higher floors offer fantastic city views. It is conveniently located near the new promenade, pedestrian bridge, restaurants, and cafes. More information is on the New Wave Hotel’s website.
Transportation and Getting Around in Georgia
Travelling in Georgia, available means of transport
Traveling within Georgia is relatively well-organized, and moving between cities is convenient and affordable. Here’s an overview of the available transportation options and how they work:
Marshrutkas (Minibuses)
Marshrutkas are Georgia’s most popular public transport option. These small buses operate on fixed routes, connecting major cities and smaller towns.
Advantages:
- Departures are flexible, often starting only when the bus is full. However, approximate schedules are available on popular routes (e.g., Tbilisi–Batumi, Tbilisi–Kutaisi).
- Tickets are purchased directly from the driver or at bus station ticket offices.
- Extremely affordable: A ride from Tbilisi to Batumi costs about 30-35 GEL (about 11-13$).
Disadvantages:
- Comfort can be limited, especially on longer routes, as marshrutkas often lack air conditioning.
- Scheduling and planning are challenging since exact departure and return times are unclear.
- Safety concerns include reckless driving and poor vehicle maintenance. If the driver’s behaviour feels unsafe, do not hesitate to voice your concerns.
Trains
The Georgian railway system is convenient, especially for long-distance routes like Tbilisi–Batumi.
- High-speed trains (express) and slower overnight trains with sleeping compartments are available.
- Tickets can be purchased online at railway.ge, at station ticket offices, or via mobile apps.
- The fare for a high-speed train from Tbilisi to Batumi ranges from 30 to 50 GEL (about 11 to 18$), depending on the class.
- Trains are comfortable, air-conditioned, and often have Wi-Fi access.
Buses
While less popular than marshrutkas, buses provide a comfortable alternative for longer trips or travellers seeking more space.
Advantages:
- Several private companies, such as Georgian Bus and Metro Georgia, operate routes between major cities.
- Tickets can be booked online or purchased at bus station ticket offices.
- Prices are slightly higher than marshrutkas but come with the advantage of greater comfort.
Disadvantages:
- Delays are common, and onboard Wi-Fi may not always work.
Tickets for Georgian Bus services can be checked and purchased through platforms like 12Go* Georgian Bus tickets, where you can compare prices with other transportation options.
By choosing the mode of transport that best suits your preferences—whether it’s the affordability of marshrutkas, the comfort of trains, or the reliability of buses—you can easily navigate Georgia and enjoy its diverse landscapes.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available across Georgia and relatively inexpensive, especially for short distances. They can also be hired for full-day trips to explore nearby attractions.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Popular apps like Bolt and Yandex Taxi operate efficiently in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi.
- Important Tip: If you’re not using an app, agree on the fare with the driver before starting the ride to avoid surprises.
Car Rental in Georgia
Renting a car is an excellent option for those who value independence. It allows you to access remote locations at your own pace.
Worth to know:
- Polish/ EU tourists need only their Polish/ EU driving license and ID to drive in Georgia.
- Rental Costs: Prices, including insurance, start at around 80-100 GEL (about 30-36$) per day.
- Road Conditions: Roads in cities are mostly paved, but mountain areas often have rougher terrain. A 4WD vehicle may be necessary for certain remote or rugged regions.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights can save time between major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. However, their frequency is limited.
- Airlines: Georgian Airways and other local carriers operate domestic routes.
- Costs: Tickets are relatively expensive by Georgian standards but offer a significant time-saving alternative.
Traveling with Your Car
If you plan to drive your car in Georgia, here’s what you need to know:
Legal Requirements:
- You can use your Polish/EU driving license for up to 90 days without registering your vehicle or paying import duties.
- If the car isn’t registered in your name, a notarized authorization (e.g., a rental agreement) translated into Georgian is required.
Insurance:
- While third-party liability insurance (OC) isn’t mandatory, it’s highly recommended due to the local driving style and high accident rate.
- Lack of insurance among Georgian drivers can make claiming compensation complex in case of an accident.
Safety and Road Tips
- Driving Style: Traffic rules are often ignored by drivers and pedestrians, so extra vigilance is necessary.
- Night Driving: Avoid driving after dark. Roads often have wandering livestock, such as cows and sheep, posing a serious hazard.
- General Caution: Exercise extreme care on the roads, especially in rural or mountainous areas where conditions can be unpredictable.
Georgia offers various transportation options, including taxis, rental cars, and domestic flights, to cater to travellers with different preferences. Whether you prioritize affordability, comfort, or flexibility, there’s a mode of transport to suit your needs.
Safety in the Georgian Mountains and Rescue Support
Georgian Mountains
The majestic peaks of the Caucasus and Georgia’s wild, untamed landscapes attract an increasing number of mountain enthusiasts. However, these mountains, including prominent peaks like Kazbek and Tetnuldi, pose significant risks, especially for inexperienced hikers.
Practical Information Before Heading to the Mountains
- Limited Rescue Capabilities: Rescue operations in Georgia can be slow due to challenging terrain and limited resources.
- Insurance: Travelers should ensure their insurance covers mountain rescue operations, including helicopter evacuation, as such services are expensive.
- Polish Support: Polish rescue teams have significantly improved safety in the Georgian mountains through their expertise and training. For more information about the Safe Kazbek project, visit bezpiecznykazbek.org.
Safety Guidelines for Mountain Expeditions
- Group Travel: Always hike in groups and carry essential equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and ropes.
- Avoid Solo Expeditions: Climbing peaks over 3,000 meters without acclimatization or a local guide is strongly discouraged due to the risk of altitude sickness and severe weather.
- Hidden Dangers: The glaciers of the Greater Caucasus, particularly on Kazbek, are riddled with crevasses, often concealed beneath snow. Falling into one can be fatal.
- Landslides and Avalanches: Mudslides, snow avalanches, and rockfalls frequently disrupt roads like the Georgian Military Highway (Tbilisi–Stepantsminda) or trails in Svaneti and Tusheti. Repairs can take weeks, and helicopter evacuations cost several hundred dollars per person.
Polish Mountain Rescue Teams in Georgia
Since 2016, Polish mountain rescue teams have collaborated with their Georgian counterparts, mainly through the Safe Kazbek project. MSAR POLAND (formerly Medyk Rescue Team) manages the initiative in partnership with the Polish Embassy in Tbilisi.
- Bethlemi Hut: Polish rescuers are stationed near the Meteo Shelter (Bethlemi Hut) at the base of Kazbek during the climbing season.
- Voluntary Efforts: All rescuers participate voluntarily, and sponsors and donors fund the project under the patronage of the Polish Mountaineering Association.
Training and Equipment Support
- Technical Training: Polish rescuers, including experts from GOPR and TOPR, regularly train their Georgian counterparts in climbing techniques, rescue operations, and using specialized equipment.
- Equipment Donations: Poland has supplied Georgia with modern rescue gear, including ropes, avalanche detectors, stretchers, and drones for search operations.
- Improved Capabilities: These resources have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of Georgian rescue operations.
International Cooperation Projects
Polish involvement in developing Georgian mountain rescue services extends beyond training and equipment:
- Funding: These initiatives are co-funded by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and non-governmental organizations.
- Joint Exercises: Polish and Georgian teams conduct joint rescue drills in the challenging conditions of the Caucasus.
Why This Support Matters
The towering peaks of the Caucasus, including Kazbek, Tetnuldi, and Ushba in Svaneti, present extreme conditions and high avalanche risks. Georgian rescue services, despite their dedication, previously lacked the modern tools and techniques needed for effective operations. The support provided by Polish teams has been vital in saving lives and making the Georgian mountains safer for both locals and visitors.
Culture, Traditions and Tours
Holidays and Festivals in Georgia
Georgia is a country where traditions and rituals are deeply rooted in the culture, and holidays are celebrated with extraordinary energy.
- The most important holiday is the New Year, which Georgians celebrate twice – according to the Gregorian calendar (January 1) and the Julian calendar (January 14).
- It is also worth experiencing Independence Day (May 26), which fills the streets of Tbilisi with parades, concerts and fireworks.
- Local festivals are also organized in regions such as Svaneti and Tusheti, during which you can see traditional dances and costumes and try regional specialities. An exciting event is Rtveli, a grape harvest festival celebrated in September or October, when the whole of Georgia celebrates the grape harvest with music, dance, and an abundance of local wines.
Culinary Culture and What to Try in Georgia
Georgian cuisine is a real treat for the senses. Each region has unique dishes and flavours, but a few must-try items exist.
- Khinkali (dumplings with meat) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) are just the beginning. Try lobio (stewed beans in a clay pot) and pkhali (vegetable paste).
- Georgians love to serve local wine with meals. Georgia is the birthplace of wine making, and traditional production methods have been preserved for thousands of years.
- Visit a local market to enhance your culinary experience. There, you’ll find aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and sweet treats like churchkhela—nuts coated in thickened grape juice.
- For dessert, try wine ice cream. This unique treat combines the creamy texture of ice cream with the delicate taste of wine. It’s popular in wine regions, where it highlights local culinary traditions. Sweet wines are often used to make it. These ice creams taste amazing and may contain a small amount of alcohol, adding originality.
- For a drink, try Borjomi water. This famous Georgian mineral water is known for its healing properties and unique taste. It comes from volcanic springs in the Borjomi region, enriched with minerals from deep underground layers. It’s praised worldwide for its ability to support digestion and overall health.
Georgian food is a journey of flavours, and every bite tells the story of the country’s rich history and traditions.
Georgia – Guided Tours
Travelling in Georgia alone is very rewarding, but sometimes, a guided day tour is worth considering. It’s a great option to explore the country’s most interesting spots without the stress of planning your route or finding parking. This is especially true in regions like Kakheti, which is known for its top wineries and tastings. Guided tours allow you to fully enjoy the local flavours without skipping tastings if you’re the driver.
Additionally, travelling with a guide is convenient and a chance to learn fascinating stories and facts you might never hear on your own. Georgian guides are known for their passion and knowledge, inspiring the experience. Moreover, it’s the perfect solution for those who want to make the most of their time, especially when on a tight schedule.
Guided tours let you relax, admire the landscapes, experience local culture, and enjoy every moment while leaving the organizational details to the experts.
1-Day Tours from Tbilisi
Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, is an excellent starting point for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. If you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience, there are plenty of one-day tours that allow you to discover Georgia’s beauty without the hassle of planning.
Some popular 1-day tours from Tbilisi include:
- Kazbegi and Gudauri Tour from Tbilisi* (12-hour). For this guided tour, Men should wear long pants, and women should cover their hair when visiting the church. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
- From Tbilisi to Kazbegi, Gudauri & Zhinvali Guided Group Tour* (11-hours): A tour to Kazbegi along the Georgian Military Highway with views of the Caucasus Mountains. You will see the stunning confluence of the Aragvi River and the Friendship Monument in Gudauri and have the chance to try mineral water and local honey. In Stepantsminda, you will visit the Gergeti Monastery with a breathtaking view of Mount Kazbek – unforgettable landscapes are guaranteed!
- Kakheti Wine Region Tour from Tbilisi* (12-hour) guided tour: Visit picturesque Kakheti – Georgia’s most famous wine region! Stroll through the charming streets of Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love,” and taste unique wines at the most prominent winery, Khareba. Discover local culture and history through the stories of your experienced guide.
- Majestic Kazbegi Private Day Tour* (12-hour) guided tour*: Travel from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, stopping at Ananuri Fortress by Jinvali Lake. Then, visit Gudauri, a popular ski resort with excellent ski slopes and breathtaking views (from December to April), with lifts reaching up to 3,306 meters. Reaching the Gergeti Monastery with the majestic Kazbek in the background will provide unforgettable views and experiences.
A guided day tour from Tbilisi is an easy and comfortable way to see Georgia’s highlights, learn from local experts, and relax without worrying about logistics.
Georgia – My Other Posts
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