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Georgia
Georgia is known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Tbilisi’s charming old town, the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, and the scenic beauty of the Caucasus Mountains. Its blend of history and natural beauty makes Georgia a captivating destination.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Hiking, Mountains, Nature, Skiing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, 0-50€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
50-100mm, 100-150mm, 150-200mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Asia
Currency
Georgian lari
Languages
Georgian, Abkhaz
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Georgia (the country) is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
- Spring (April to June): Offers mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring cities like Tbilisi, wine regions, and outdoor activities in the Caucasus Mountains.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the harvest season, especially in the wine-growing regions.
- Summer (July to August) is warm and suitable for visiting the Black Sea coast or hiking in the mountains, but it can also be hot in the lowlands.
- Winter (November to March) is great for winter sports in the Caucasus, but temperatures can be very cold, especially in the mountains.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local restaurants, street food).
Activities: $5-15/day (historical sites, nature walks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (local dining, cafes).
Activities: $10-25/day (city tours, local experiences).
Transportation: $10-15/day (taxis, local transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $25+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, wine tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences, shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($25-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-25/night (budget hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food).
Activities: $5-10/day (museum visits, local sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-130/day)
Accommodation: $25-50/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (tours, museums).
Transportation: $10-15/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours).
Transportation: $10+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Tbilisi
- The capital city, known for its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and landmarks such as the Narikala Fortress, Tbilisi Old Town, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral.
2. Batumi
- A coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its modern architecture, beaches, and attractions like the Batumi Boulevard and the Batumi Botanical Garden.
3. Kutaisi
- Known for its historical sites, including the Bagrati Cathedral and the Gelati Monastery, as well as its proximity to the beautiful Prometheus Cave.
4. Zugdidi
- A city in the Samegrelo region, known for its historic sites and as a gateway to the nearby Rioni River and the beautiful Svaneti region.
5. Mtskheta
- A historic town near Tbilisi, known for its significant religious sites like the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tbilisi
Islands
1. Lake Baikal Islands
- Located in the northeastern part of the country, these islands are known for their pristine landscapes and natural beauty.
2. Guria Archipelago
- A group of small islands in the Black Sea, known for their picturesque scenery and coastal charm.
3. Tsikhisdziri
- An island near the town of Tsikhisdziri in the Black Sea, offering scenic views and a peaceful environment.
4. Narikala Fortress Island
- A historic site located on a hill overlooking Tbilisi, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
5. Kolkhida Lowland Islands
- Located in the western part of Georgia, these islands are part of the Kolkheti National Park and are known for their rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Kazbegi National Park
- Explore stunning alpine scenery, including the dramatic Kazbegi Mountain and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
2. Vardzia Cave Monastery
- Discover this impressive rock-hewn monastery complex built into a cliffside, featuring a labyrinth of caves, chapels, and frescoes.
3. Uplistsikhe
- Wander through this ancient cave city carved into sandstone cliffs, with a network of tunnels, dwellings, and religious structures.
4. Mtskheta
- Visit this ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic churches and monasteries, including Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery.
5. Batumi Beaches
- Relax on the Black Sea coast in Batumi, where you can enjoy sandy beaches, modern seaside promenades, and vibrant nightlife.
6. Svaneti Region
- Experience the rugged beauty of the Svaneti highlands, with its dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval towers, and traditional Svan culture.
Cultural Attractions
1. Tbilisi Old Town
- Explore the charming historic district of the capital city, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and landmarks like the Narikala Fortress and Sulphur Baths.
2. Gergeti Trinity Church
- Visit this iconic church perched on a hilltop in Kazbegi, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
3. Wine Tours in Kakheti
- Experience Georgia’s rich wine-making tradition with tours of the Kakheti region’s vineyards, ancient wine cellars, and tastings of unique Georgian wines.
4. Ethnographic Museum
- Discover traditional Georgian culture and history through exhibits of folk art, artifacts, and historical items at this open-air museum in Tbilisi.
5. Ritsa Lake
- Enjoy the serene beauty of this mountain lake in the Abkhazia region, surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, ideal for boating and hiking.
6. Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
- Visit one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, featuring impressive architecture, religious icons, and sweeping views of the city from its hilltop location.
Kazbegi National Park
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- For traveling between major cities and regions, domestic flights are available. Georgian Airways and Wizz Air offer flights connecting Tbilisi with other key locations like Batumi, Kutaisi, and Mestia.
2. Trains
- Georgia has a rail network operated by Georgian Railways. Trains connect major cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi. The trains vary from regular services to more luxurious options on certain routes.
3. Public Buses
- Public buses operate within cities and for intercity travel. In Tbilisi, buses cover various routes, and companies like Samkaria and Buses of Georgia provide services between towns and cities.
4. Minibuses (Marshrutkas)
- Known as marshrutkas, these shared minibuses are a popular and affordable option for traveling between cities and towns. They run on fixed routes and are widely used for both short and long-distance travel.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are available in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi. Ride-hailing apps such as Bolt operate in Tbilisi, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
6. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring Georgia’s diverse landscapes, including the Caucasus Mountains and rural areas. Driving is on the right side of the road, and roads are generally in good condition, though mountainous areas may have challenging conditions.
7. Cable Cars
- In cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, cable cars offer a scenic way to explore local attractions and get panoramic views of the city. The Tbilisi Funicular and Batumi Cable Car are popular options.
8. Boats
- For travel along the Black Sea coast, especially in Batumi, boat tours and ferries offer a way to enjoy the scenic coastline and access nearby coastal towns.
For getting around Georgia, domestic flights and trains are practical for long-distance travel, while minibuses (marshrutkas) and public buses cover regional routes. Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals provide convenience for local exploration, and cable cars and boats offer unique ways to experience the country’s landscapes and attractions.
What to eat
1. Khinkali
- Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat and broth, traditionally eaten by hand.
2. Khachapuri
- A cheese-filled bread, often topped with an egg and butter, showcasing Georgia’s dairy heritage.
3. Lobio
- A bean stew made with herbs and spices, often served with cornbread or bread.
4. Pkhali
- A spread made from ground vegetables (such as spinach or beets) mixed with walnuts and spices.
5. Chakapuli
- A stew made with lamb, tarragon, and sour plums, offering a unique flavor profile.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €150 to €300.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,400.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers do not need a visa to enter Georgia for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 365 days.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Georgian visa at a Georgian embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as tourist visas, typically valid for stays of up to 30 days or longer, depending on the visa type.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to a few weeks, so it's advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 365 days, while visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but having travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in most cities.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 220V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% for good service.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like MagtiCom and Geocell. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Georgia, people drive on the right side of the road.