Georgia, renowned for its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and breathtaking landscapes, is a destination that captivates travelers from around the globe. Visitors flock to this enchanting country to savor its delectable cuisine in the charming taverns of Tbilisi, enjoy the renowned Borjomi mineral water, and marvel at the stunning Caucasus Mountains. From the vibrant art of Niko Pirosmani to the lively Lezginka dance, and the inviting shores of the Black Sea, Georgia offers a plethora of experiences. To ensure a smooth journey as you explore this remarkable land, we’ve compiled essential tips for planning your trip.
The most convenient way to reach Georgia is by air, with a variety of airlines offering direct flights from numerous countries. For travelers coming from neighboring countries like Azerbaijan and Armenia, trains provide a comfortable option.
IMPORTANT: Entry and exit to and from Abkhazia can be quite complex, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.
Georgia’s primary international airport, Tbilisi International Airport (IATA: TBS), is located just 17 km from the capital. Other international airports include Batumi (IATA: BUS) and Kutaisi (IATA: KUT).
Airlines that operate regular flights to Georgia include:
Trains from Azerbaijan and Armenia connect to Tbilisi and Batumi, making rail travel an enjoyable option for those in the region. For schedules and ticket options, click here.
Ferries operated by UkFerry connect Georgia from the Ukrainian port of Ilichevsk and the Bulgarian port of Varna to Batumi. Additionally, the “Kometa” ferry runs from the Russian port of Sochi to Batumi. For sailing schedules and contact information, visit Georgia Ferry Services.
Important: Due to ongoing military conflict between Russian and Ukraine all ferry services in the Black Sea region are suspended
When entering or leaving Georgia, travelers must declare any cash exceeding the equivalent of 30,000 lari. Customs exemptions apply for personal items, including jewelry, toiletries, up to 200 cigarettes, 3 liters of wine, and 10 liters of beer. Importing explosives, narcotics, pornography, and materials that misrepresent the political system is strictly prohibited. Exporting culturally or historically significant items without a permit from the Ministry of Culture is also forbidden. An additional tax of 1 GEL per kg applies to luggage exceeding 20 kg.
Georgia has specific restrictions on importing medications. For detailed information, please click here.
The official currency is the lari (GEL), with 1 lari divided into 100 tetri. It’s advisable to bring USD or euros for exchange.
Banking Hours: Georgian banks typically operate from 10:00 AM to 5:30-7:00 PM. Currency can be exchanged at banks and dedicated exchange offices.
Credit Card Payments: Most large supermarkets and some restaurants accept credit cards, primarily Visa and MasterCard, though American Express is less commonly accepted. Traveler’s checks are not widely used.