Georgia’s location at the intersection of Europe and Asia gives it stunning scenery coupled with fascinating history and rich cultural heritage. With snow-capped Caucasus Regions Peaks, Georgia offers an unforgettable trip. 

Below is some information useful in travelling within Georgia. If you are planning on visiting this wonderful country, you will need information on “how to get around”.

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 112
  • Ambulance: 112
  • Fire Department: 112

These numbers work across the country, so if you ever need help, don’t hesitate to call.

Public Transportation  

If you find yourself in Tbilisi or Batumi, the metropolitan regions, you get access to modern-day transportation systems which includes buses, trolleybuses, and metros. Unlike the other cities, Tbilisi boasts its very own metro system which is cheap and effective, semi-modern in its design, but it does get crowded during peak commuting hours. 

Metromoney (Plastic Cards) rechargeable cards are offered for payment at the metro stations. Along with being compatible with other lines, they can also be used on many bus routes. 

Moving between regions is easy in Georgia, And for that purpose, most people prefer travelling through “marshrutkas” minivans. These vans are widely popular because of their inexpensive and more frequent offerings although they are not known for being the most spacious. 

Major cities, including Tbilisi, support these buses using central stations, enabling efficient travel. But, it’s worth mentioning that this kind of transport is uncomfortable. That’s why we recommend you to rent a car.

Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a good option for individuals who value more freedom. Country driving can be an interesting experience when traveling through Georgia, especially in rural and mountainous regions. The magnificent roads of Georgia add a layer of joy while traveling in the country. Rent a car in Tbilisi and Batumi and you can go to more remote locations like Ushguli, Vardzia, or the wine regions in Kakheti. 

Ride-sharing apps along with other taxi services

Regular taxis are relatively inexpensive compared to paying for a rental car, however, they should be ordered with a set fare on it. Bolt and Yandex services provide ride sharing services similar to Uber, for customers in Tbilisi and those come highly recommended for being less expensive than regular taxi services. 

Payment along with the currency

Georgia’s official currency is Georgian Lari (GEL). Residents in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi (we also have a Batumi car hiring service) accept the use of credit and debit cards, whereas cash is the only accepted form of payment in villages and those located further from the city. 

Even though ATMs are easy to find, having a little Easter Money is recommended for shopping, especially in towns with fewer people.

Exchanging money is easy to deal with because there are many exchange offices and banks located in the main tourist regions. Be sure to check the rate of exchange you will be getting before doing any transactions. It’s advisable to keep extra cash on hand for emergencies.

Language and Communication

The official language of Georgia is Georgian, and it differs from all other languages in the world because it has a different alphabet as well as different rules of grammar. Although dreaded by many learners, Georgian is not so hard to grasp due to a basic English proficiency among many people working in the tourism sector, especially in Tbilisi.

Communication tends to be more complex and troublesome beyond major city limits. A few common expressions in Georgian or Russian (commonly spoken in rural areas) will go a long way in helping you in the countryside. Locals are quite friendly and will be glad to see any attempt to speak their language, even if it is just a couple of words.

Visa Requirements

Georgia has very few restrictions when it comes to visa policy. Most people from Western countries visiting the EU, United States or Canada can stay in Georgia for up to a year without needing a visa. Citizens of some countries like Russia and Turkey do not require a visa for longer stays.

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Weather and The Ideal Time to Travel 

Georgia is a country with a complicated climate owing to its striking geography, but the ideal time to travel is usually between spring (April through June) and autumn (September through October). These months are better as the temperatures are moderate with a small number of tourists traveling during this period.

Summer months can be extremely hot, especially in the lowlands, such as Tbilisi and Batumi, but the cooler higher mountain regions remain refreshing. Spring and Autumn on the other hand are not so pleasant if you are keen on skiing and snowboarding. 

Cuisines and Best Spots to Eat 

Georgian food is considered one of the richest cuisines in the world and has a lot to offer owing to the wide heritage and variety of culture along with the fresh ingredients available. The cuisine has also garnered a lot of attention and is known for putting together the flavors of both the East and Western Culture.

Recommended meals: 

  • Khachapuri – A bread filled with cheese that varies from one region to another. The Adjarian khachapuri is said to be the best and is presented with an added butter and egg on top. 
  • Khinkali – Dumplings stuffed with either vegetables or meat and seasoned with black pepper which is also a must try.
  • Shashlik – Skewered meat cooked over direct heat and served alongside fresh vegetables and bread.
  • Satsivi – A favorite dish in Georgia made of walnut base sauce with seasoned chicken or turkey.
  • Pkhali – A meat-free meal prepared from spinach, eggplants, or various vegetables blended with finely chopped walnuts.

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Safety

The country is rich in culture and history, but is not particularly known for violent crime. Like any unfamiliar place, some caution should be exercised, especially at night. Well known for its hospitable culture, the country is almost always safe for tourists.

Cultural Etiquette

The people as a whole are also famously recognized for their hospitality. It is polite to offer small tokens, such as wine or sweets, and it is common for Georgian’s to accept them. One can spend hours toasting and giving speeches as part of a ‘supra‘ feast while coffee and tea are a necessity during social events. 

People greet one another by shaking hands, then proceed to hug friends or kiss friends on the cheek. There are some more tips on proper etiquette and one is to respect local customs especially when visiting religious places like monasteries and churches.

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So…

Georgia is a treasure trove for those who seek uncharted territories, rich in history and culture, along with breathtaking scenery. Tourists can spend their time soaking in the beauty of the pristine Caucasus Mountains, charming Tbilisi, or even sip on exquisite wines in Kakheti. There is literally something for everyone. 

Knowing the country’s requirements including how to get around and the local customs will, without a doubt, ensure that your stay in Georgia is not only pleasurable but also uncomplicated.