Georgia Travel Guide

Georgia, a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a land of stunning natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Known for its dramatic landscapes, Georgia boasts snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and Black Sea beaches.

The capital, Tbilisi, is a charming blend of old and new, with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and modern architecture. Beyond the capital, visitors can explore ancient cave cities like Uplistsikhe, the wine region of Kakheti, and the breathtaking peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. Georgia’s warm hospitality and rich culinary traditions make it an unforgettable destination.

Georgia experiences a diverse climate due to its varied geography:

• Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and green valleys, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
• Summer (June-August): Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 25–35°C, ideal for mountain trekking and beach visits along the Black Sea coast.
• Autumn (September-November): Cool and crisp, with stunning fall foliage and grape harvest festivals.
• Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, particularly in mountainous areas, making it a great time for skiing in resorts like Gudauri.

The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Georgia is accessible by air, road, and rail:

• Airports: Tbilisi International Airport is the primary gateway, with Kutaisi and Batumi airports serving regional and international flights.
• Land Borders: Georgia shares borders with Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, and these crossings are popular with overland travelers.
• Rail: Trains connect Georgia with Armenia and Azerbaijan, offering scenic and comfortable journeys.

Georgia’s nightlife is dynamic and increasingly popular among travelers:

• Tbilisi: Known for its thriving electronic music scene, with clubs like Bassiani and Fabrika drawing global attention. Rooftop bars and wine lounges are also abundant.
• Batumi: Offers a mix of beach bars, casinos, and live music venues along the Black Sea coast.
• Kutaisi: A quieter scene with traditional restaurants and cultural performances.

For a cultural experience, attend a traditional Georgian polyphonic singing performance, a UNESCO-recognized art form, or visit a local wine cellar.

Georgia offers unique and traditional souvenirs that reflect its rich heritage:

• Wine: Georgia is one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions, and its wines, especially qvevri-aged varieties, are must-buys.
• Chacha: A traditional Georgian brandy made from grapes.
• Handmade Rugs and Textiles: Intricate woolen rugs and felted items crafted by local artisans.
• Spices and Churchkhela: Local spices and churchkhela, a string of nuts dipped in grape juice, make excellent gifts.
• Enamel Jewelry: Traditional cloisonné enamel pieces, known as minankari.
• Pottery and Ceramics: Beautifully crafted items reflecting Georgian motifs.

• Tbilisoba (October): A celebration of Tbilisi’s culture and history, with music, dance, and food.
• Rtveli (September-October): The grape harvest festival in Kakheti, featuring traditional wine-making and feasting.
• Batumi Jazz Festival (July): An international music festival on the Black Sea coast.
• New Wine Festival (May): Held in Tbilisi, showcasing Georgia’s emerging winemakers.

• January 7: Orthodox Christmas.
• April 9: Day of National Unity.
• May 26: Independence Day.
• August 28: Mariamoba (Feast of the Assumption).
• October 14: Svetitskhovloba (Feast of the Holy Cross).

• Modest dress is recommended when visiting churches and monasteries.
• English is not widely spoken outside urban areas; learning a few Georgian phrases like “Gamarjoba” (Hello) and “Madloba” (Thank you) is appreciated.
• Tap water is safe to drink in most cities, but bottled water is widely available.
• Georgia’s currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL); ATMs are widely accessible in urban areas.

Georgia offers various transportation options to explore its cities and countryside:

• Buses and Marshrutkas: Minibuses are the most common and affordable way to travel between cities and villages.
• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Bolt and Yandex Go operate in Tbilisi and other major cities.
• Trains: The Georgian Railway connects major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, with scenic routes through the countryside.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring remote areas like Kazbegi or Tusheti.

Georgia’s culture is deeply influenced by its Orthodox Christian heritage, ancient traditions, and winemaking:

• Cuisine: Georgian food is flavorful and comforting, known for its use of fresh herbs, walnuts, and spices. Must-try dishes include:
  • Khachapuri: Cheese-filled bread, with regional variations like Adjarian Khachapuri shaped like a boat.
  • Khinkali: Juicy dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Lobio: A hearty bean stew.
  • Badrijani: Eggplant rolls stuffed with walnut paste.
  • Churchkhela: Sweet grape and nut snacks.
• Wine and Supra: Wine is central to Georgian culture, and the supra (traditional feast) is an integral part of social life, often led by a toastmaster (tamada).

Georgia’s economy is diverse, with tourism, agriculture, and winemaking as key sectors. The country is a major exporter of wine and mineral water, with a growing reputation as a tourist-friendly destination. Infrastructure improvements and free trade agreements are driving economic growth and modernization.

Georgia has a liberal visa policy:

• Visa-Free: Citizens of over 90 countries can enter visa-free for up to one year.
• e-Visa: Available for citizens of select countries via a simple online application process.
• Visa on Arrival: Offered to travelers from specific regions.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Georgia maintains embassies and consulates worldwide, providing assistance to travelers and fostering international relations.