Georgia Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Tbilisi – The capital city with historic architecture, sulfur baths, and a vibrant arts scene.
- Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) – Scenic mountain village near Mount Kazbek.
- Mtskheta – Georgia’s spiritual heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Uplistsikhe – Ancient rock-hewn cave town.
- Batumi – A seaside resort town on the Black Sea with a modern skyline.
Language & Culture
Georgian is the official language. The country has a deep Orthodox Christian heritage, centuries-old winemaking tradition, unique script, and a strong sense of hospitality. Traditional polyphonic singing and folk dances are culturally significant.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Marshrutkas (minibuses), trains, taxis, and buses. Tbilisi also has a metro system.
- Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL).
- Food: Must-try dishes include khachapuri (cheese bread), khinkali (dumplings), lobio (bean stew), and churchkhela (nut candy).
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| May – June, September – October | Mild and pleasant | Ideal for exploring cities and mountains |
| July – August | Hot in lowlands | Best for alpine trekking and Black Sea coast |
| December – February | Cold and snowy | Great for skiing in Gudauri and Bakuriani |
Main international gateway is Tbilisi International Airport. Kutaisi and Batumi airports serve regional flights.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (GEL) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 50 – 200 | Hostels to mid-range hotels |
| Meals | 30 – 100 | Local eateries to restaurants |
| Transport | 10 – 40 | Local buses, taxis, or trains |
| Activities | 20 – 100 | Tours, museums, wine tastings |
Packing List Suggestions
- Layers for varied weather
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Scarf for church visits (for women)
- Travel adapter (type C/F plugs)
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gamarjoba | Hello |
| Madloba | Thank you |
| Tqven rogor xart? | How are you? |
| Diakh / Ara | Yes / No |
| Gtxovt | Please |
| Ukatsravad | Excuse me / Sorry |
| Rogor shemidzlia? | How can I? |
| Sad aris…? | Where is…? |
| Tu aris problemi | No problem |
| Gagimarjos | Cheers! |
| Ar vici | I don’t know |
| Me mqvia… | My name is… |
| Nakhvamdis | Goodbye |
| Rogor khar? | How are you? (informal) |
| Shen lamazi xar | You are beautiful |
| Vitsi | I know |
| Ara | No |
| Me minda es | I want this |
| Ra ghirs? | How much does it cost? |
| Sad var? | Where am I? |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is generally safe in cities
- Pharmacies are widely available
- Emergency number: 112
- Be cautious on mountain roads and trails
Festivals & Holidays
- Tbilisoba – Cultural festival celebrating Tbilisi in October
- New Wine Festival – Springtime celebration of Georgian winemaking
- Orthodox Christmas – Celebrated on January 7
- Independence Day – May 26, parades and patriotic events
Sustainable Tourism
- Support local guesthouses and guides
- Respect church customs and natural areas
- Use refillable bottles and reduce waste
- Stick to marked trails when hiking
