Georgia

Back

Key things to know before your trip

Last update October 16, 2023

Visa

Visa-free access for up to 1 year is granted to citizens of 98 countries
For citizens of all other countries e-visa or submission through the consulate/embassy
Check whether you need a visa on the official website

Taxi

Taxi apps Maxim, Yandex
Never agree to a trip with taxi drivers (if not ordered via the taxi app) without discussing the fare before departure. This applies to any country

Navigation on-site

Make sure to install the Maps Me app in advance and download the offline map of Georgia for the specific region you'll be visiting

Sim card and Internet

Mobile operators Silknet, Magti, Beeline
Available at official stores of mobile operators and at Airports
E-sim (if your phone supports this feature). Possible to order through third-party service websites or buy directly from the mobile operators listed above (approximately 5 lari in addition to the cost of the SIM card)
Install the WiFi Map app - the map with WiFi hotspots and passwords, and get a 10% discount on purchasing an e-sim (use promo code 7ECF3FK for SIM card purchase)

Currency exchange

Currency - Georgian Lari (GEL)
Best exchange rates can be found in exchange offices and banks (Credo Bank's rates match the market/Google rates)
You can withdraw cash from ATMs (except cards issued by Russian banks)
! Always check the ATM for any fees or charges

From the airport to the city

Tbilisi: Bus 37, fare 1 lari (last stop - Railway Station); taxi
Batumi: City bus, fare 0.3 lari (stops right outside the airport exit); minibus (walk approximately 500 meters to the main road); taxi
Kutaisi: Bus, taxi

Use ride-hailing apps to call a taxi (there is free Wi-Fi available at the airport)
! Do not take taxis on the spot; the prices will be significantly inflated

Where to stay

Hotels and apartments
Search through booking websites

Food

Georgian cuisine dishes - khachapuri, khinkali, and numerous meat and vegetable dishes. Try something new each time
Don't order too much at once, a maximum of 2-3 dishes for 2 people, as portions are usually large, and the food is filling. It's better to order more if needed (food is cooked quickly)
Wine. An extensive selection of wine made using the traditional Georgian method in clay pots called 'kvevri.' Our recommendation is to try the dry amber wines that are unique to Georgia. We suggest trying Kisi, Mtsvane, Khikhvi, and then the choice is yours