Georgia (country) Travel Guide

Country Country at the intersection of Europe and Asia

Georgia lures travelers with its diverse landscapes, from the craggy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the fertile vineyards of Kakheti. Tbilisi, the capital, blends ancient architecture with a burgeoning arts scene, while the hearty cuisine-think khachapuri and khinkali-offers a taste of the country’s storied past.

Costs

$30-80/day

Low-cost food and accommodation in cities

Safety

Generally Safe

Generally safe; occasional border tensions reported

Best Time

May - Oct

Warm months good for hiking and coastal visits

Visa

Visa Free (up to 1 year)

Long visa-free stays available for many nationalities

Getting Around

Easy

Good minibuses, trains and affordable domestic flights

Digital Nomads

Popular Hub

Fast internet, nomad visas and coworking available

In This Guide

Why Visit
Planning
Health & Safety
History & Culture
Responsible Travel

Currency

GEL (ლ)

Why Visit Georgia (country) #

Don’t treat Georgian wine as an afterthought - head to Kakheti for family-run cellars in Telavi and Sighnaghi where centuries-old qvevri winemaking is still practiced. Tastings are informal, often accompanied by local bread and churchkhela, and you’ll learn why Georgians pair food and wine the way they do. It’s an experience hard to replicate elsewhere.

High, glacier-scarred peaks and medieval watchtowers define Svaneti; Ushguli is one of Europe’s highest continuously inhabited villages and a perfect base for day hikes. Trails run past isolated villages, alpine lakes and towering peaks, with electrifying views of Mount Shkhara. Bring warm layers - weather changes fast at altitude.

Wander narrow lanes from Rustaveli Avenue down to sulfur baths in Abanotubani, and you’ll see why Tbilisi feels both ancient and experimental. Eat khachapuri from a bakery, browse Soviet-era shops turned design boutiques, then catch sunset views from Narikala Fortress. It’s the best place to sample Georgia’s messy, delicious food culture.

Join-or instigate-a supra, the Georgian communal feast where a tamada (toastmaster) leads rounds of toasts, songs and plates of khachapuri, lobio, and oxtail stews. It’s not just a meal but a social ritual; insist on trying several homemade wines and don’t be shy about toasting. Expect warmth, loud conversation and generous portions.

Small stone monasteries and major sites like Jvari and Svetitskhoveli in Mtskheta are compact, accessible lessons in early Christianity mixed with Georgian architecture. Drive the Kazbegi route to Gergeti Trinity Church for a photo-op under Mount Kazbek, then slow down around rural chapels where frescoes often remain surprisingly intact. History feels tactile here.

Who's Georgia (country) For?

Couples

Tbilisi’s winding Old Town, warm sulfur baths and candlelit wine cellars in Kakheti make Georgia ideal for romantic escapes and intimate dinners centered on khachapuri and local wines.

Families

Families enjoy easy sightseeing in Tbilisi and kid-friendly hikes in lower Svaneti; many guesthouses welcome children and Georgian food like khachapuri and grilled meats is very accessible to young palates.

Backpackers

Backpackers love cheap guesthouses in Tbilisi, long-distance marshrutkas and multi-day treks through Svaneti and Tusheti - superb trails and mountain huts keep costs low and scenery unforgettable.

Digital Nomads

Tbilisi has a growing coworking scene, reliable cafés and decent Wi‑Fi; smaller towns lag but overall living costs and visa options make Georgia attractive for medium-term stays.

Foodies

Georgia is a food pilgrimage: melt-in-your-mouth khinkali, soul-soothing khachapuri and centuries-old Kakheti wineries pair with feisty condiments and communal supra banquets.

Adventure Seekers

Caucasus peaks around Kazbegi and Svaneti offer serious trekking, via ferrata and winter skiing in Gudauri; mountain villages are perfect bases for adrenaline-filled days.

Party Animals

Tbilisi’s nightlife punches above its weight with intimate bars, techno clubs and late-night supra-style gatherings; Batumi adds beachfront bars and casinos for a different vibe.

Nature Buffs

From dramatic Alpine ridges in Svaneti to Black Sea beaches and the forested foothills of the Greater Caucasus, Georgia is a paradise for landscape lovers and birdwatchers.

What's Cool

KhachapuriTbilisi sulfur bathsSvaneti towersKazbegi viewsKakheti wineriesGeorgian polyphonyBatumi beachboardwalkAncient monasteriesSupra feastsWarm hospitality

What's Not

Summer crowds in SvanetiCash often preferredSpotty mountain facilitiesTaxi touts in TbilisiSteep mountain drivesSeasonal road closuresVariable hotel standardsLimited English outside citiesSummer humidity in BatumiTourist prices at Petra-style sites

Best Places to Visit in Georgia (country)

All Cities ›

Tbilisi

Capital city of Georgia, known for architecture

Batumi

Coastal city in Adjara, Georgia, by the Black Sea

Mtskheta

Ancient city near Tbilisi, Georgia

Telavi

City in Georgia known for wine production

Gori, Georgia

City in Shida Kartli, Georgia

Zugdidi

City in Samegrelo region, Georgia

Borjomi

City in Samtskhe-Javakheti with mineral springs

Sukhumi

City in Abkhazia with Black Sea access

Where to Go in Georgia (country) #

Tbilisi

Expect bright, contradictory Tbilisi: medieval lanes, Soviet-era façades and a new-wave food and wine scene. It’s the country’s transport hub and best launch point for day trips into nearby castles and monasteries. Stay in the compact old town to walk between bathhouses, markets and lively bars.

Top Spots

Tbilisi - Lively capital with crooked old town streets, sulfur baths and a booming café scene.
Mtskheta - Short trip for ancient churches and pilgrimage history.
Rustaveli Avenue - Museums, theaters and the city’s cultural pulse.

Batumi

A subtropical Black Sea playground, Batumi mixes palm-lined boulevards with flashy modern art and casinos. Summers are beach-focused and humid, while the nearby mountains are surprisingly green. It’s a good contrast to Georgia’s highlands and a popular spot for sun, seafood and seaside promenades.

Top Spots

Batumi - Black Sea promenades, modern architecture and beach cafés.
Gonio - Roman fort ruins and quieter coastal stretch.
Batumi Boulevard - Evening strolls and seaside vibes.

Kazbegi

High-altitude scenery and crashing mountain panoramas define this northern corridor beneath Mount Kazbek. Travelers come for short alpine treks, dramatic roadside vistas and the chance to experience traditional mountain villages. Roads are scenic but can be narrow and changeable, so plan extra time for mountain transfers.

Top Spots

Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) - Base for hikes and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church.
Gudauri - High-altitude skiing and dramatic mountain roads.

Svaneti

Rugged and remote, Svaneti is a UNESCO-recognized range of medieval stone towers, high meadows and glacier-fed valleys. It’s where long day treks and multi-day routes meet a distinctive highland culture and sweeping mountain views. Infrastructure is basic but rewarding for hikers who like quiet, dramatic landscapes.

Top Spots

Mestia - Tower-filled town and gateway to glacier trails.
Ushguli - One of Europe’s highest permanently inhabited settlements, for remote walks.

Kakheti

Georgia’s premier wine country, the rolling Alazani Valley is filled with family-run wineries, cellar tastings and rustic taverns. Small towns are charming and low-key, perfect for slow drives between vineyards, tasting local amber wines and sampling hearty regional cuisine. Autumn harvest season is especially atmospheric.

Top Spots

Sighnaghi - Painted streets, wineries and views over the Alazani Valley.
Telavi - Central hub for wine tours and historic houses.

Imereti

Central-western lowlands centred on Kutaisi combine cultural sights with karst countryside and accessible caves. Travelers pass through to see ancient monasteries, lively markets and limestone caverns that contrast with the highland landscapes elsewhere. It’s practical for multi-day excursions and offers affordable accommodations.

Top Spots

Kutaisi - Gateway city with cathedrals and market life.
Prometheus Cave - Dramatic caverns and stalactite chambers.

Top Things to Do in Georgia (country)

All Attractions ›

Algeti National Park

Protected park with rugged mountains and river valleys

National Park

Caucasus Mountains

Mountain range between Europe and Asia, very high peaks

Mountains

Mount Kazbek

Prominent Caucasus peak on the Georgia–Russia frontier

Mountain

Shkhara

Georgia's highest peak in the Greater Caucasus

Mountain

Bagrati Cathedral

11th-century cathedral in Kutaisi, partially ruined

Religious Site

Gelati Monastery

12th-century monastic complex noted for frescoes

Religious Site

Lake Ritsa

Scenic mountain lake in Abkhazia, popular for tourism

Lake

Vardzia

Medieval cave monastery complex carved into cliffs

Religious Site

Best Time to Visit Georgia (country) #

Georgia's climate varies from humid subtropical on the Black Sea coast to continental in the east and alpine in the mountains. Summers are warm and popular with visitors; winters are cold with significant snow in highlands.

High Season

June - August

22-31°C / 72-88°F

Warm, mostly dry weather in lowland and coastal areas makes this the busiest tourism period; mountain areas are accessible and popular. Expect higher prices and larger crowds at major sites.

Shoulder Season

April - May, September - October

11-23°C / 52-73°F

Milder temperatures and thinner crowds make spring and early autumn excellent for sightseeing and hiking. Prices are generally lower than in summer and many festivals and harvest events occur in these months.

Low Season

November - March

0-8°C / 32-46°F

Colder weather and frequent snow in the mountains reduce accessibility to some routes; city travel continues but some rural services are limited. Bargains on lodging and fewer tourists at major attractions.

January

0-6°C (32-43°F) · Cold & often snowy (mountains) · Low Season

Winter is established across much of Georgia - lowlands are chilly while mountain areas see regular snow. Many high-mountain roads and trails can be closed; cities like Tbilisi remain active but quieter for tourists.

Events

Orthodox Christmas - Georgian Orthodox Christmas is observed on January 7 with church services and family gatherings.

December

0-6°C (32-43°F) · Cold with mountain snow · Low Season

December marks the onset of full winter in many regions - ski resorts open and mountain roads may be affected by snow. Cities are lively around the holidays but many rural attractions scale back services.

Events

New Year Celebrations - New Year's Eve is widely celebrated across Georgia with public events and private gatherings.

How to Get to Georgia (country) #

Most international visitors arrive in Georgia by air into Tbilisi International Airport (TBS); Kutaisi (KUT) and Batumi (BUS) also handle regular international services. Tbilisi is the main hub for connections from Turkey, Europe and the Middle East; many travellers also enter overland from neighbouring Turkey and Armenia.

From USA

12-20 hrs

$700-1,300 USD

From UK

5-8 hrs

£250-700 GBP

From Europe

3-6 hrs

€100-500 EUR

From Canada

12-20 hrs

CA$800-1,600 CAD

From Australia

20-30 hrs

A$1,200-2,500 AUD

Visa-free / on arrival

Visa policy depends on nationality; many travellers from the EU, UK, US and several other countries can enter Georgia visa-free for short stays, while others must obtain a visa or e‑visa before travel.

Entry requirements

Passport should be valid for the duration of stay (six‑month recommendation). Carry proof of onward travel and accommodation. Electronic visas and e‑visa information are available from the Georgian government if required.

International Airports

TBS

Tbilisi International Airport

KUT

David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport

BUS

Alexander Kartveli Batumi International Airport

All Airports ›

Border Crossings #

Georgia (country) ↔ Turkey

Overland crossings between Georgia and Turkey are frequent (especially for travel between Batumi and the Turkish Black Sea coast). The main road crossing is Sarpi on the Black Sea coast; many people combine an overland trip with flights to Istanbul. Flights: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus operate frequent services between Tbilisi (TBS) and Istanbul (IST/SAW); from Batumi there are seasonal flights to Istanbul as well. Visa/entry: many nationalities require a Turkish e‑visa (apply at www.evisa.gov.tr); travellers should check both Turkish and Georgian entry rules before crossing, and expect immigration queues at peak times.

Crossings

Sarpi (Georgia) - Hopa (Turkey) (Adjara (Batumi) to Artvin Province) - The busiest Georgia-Turkey crossing, located on the coast just south of Batumi. Expect vehicle and pedestrian traffic, tourist buses, and passport control on both sides; convenient for day trips to Hopa and the Turkish Black Sea coast.
Kartsakhi (Georgia) - Aktaş (Turkey) (Samtskhe‑Javakheti to Ardahan/Artvin region) - A secondary road crossing used by regional traffic and trucks linking southern Georgia with northeastern Turkey. Useful for overland travellers on interior routes; facilities are more basic than Sarpi and hours can be shorter.

Georgia (country) ↔ Azerbaijan

Road and rail links connect Tbilisi with Azerbaijan; flights between Tbilisi and Baku are frequent and quick. Airlines: Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) and Buta Airways operate regular Tbilisi-Baku services. Many nationalities can apply for Azerbaijan’s e‑visa (ASAN e‑visa) online - check cost and validity before travel. The main land crossings handle commercial traffic and are straightforward for tourists with correct documents.

Crossings

Red Bridge / Tsiteli Khidi (Georgia) - Qırmızı Körpü (Azerbaijan) (Kvemo Kartli (near Rustavi) to Qazax/Ganja corridor) - A major road crossing east of Tbilisi on the route towards Baku. Common for private cars and buses; immigration formalities can be busy during holidays and commercial traffic is heavy.
Lagodekhi (Georgia) - Balakan/ Zaqatala area (Azerbaijan) (Kakheti to Zaqatala region) - Used by travellers heading to northwestern Azerbaijan from eastern Georgia. Facilities are smaller than the Rustavi crossing; good for regional transfers and trips into the Caucasus foothills.

Georgia (country) ↔ Armenia

Short overland connections link southern Georgia with northern Armenia; many travellers choose the road or short bus services between Tbilisi and Yerevan. Airlines: Georgian Airways and Armenia Air (and occasional charters) operate Tbilisi-Yerevan flights. For most nationalities, Armenia and Georgia have straightforward entry rules but you should verify visa/entry requirements in advance and ensure not to travel through disputed border areas.

Crossings

Sadakhlo (Georgia) - Bagratashen (Armenia) (Kvemo Kartli to Lori/Shirak approaches) - The busiest crossing on the Georgia-Armenia border; used by intercity buses and private vehicles en route between Tbilisi and Yerevan. Border controls are routine but can be slow at peak times.
Gantiadi/Manavi (smaller road crossings) (Samtskhe‑Javakheti to southern Armenia) - Smaller local crossings used mainly by residents and regional traffic. Not ideal for first‑time international travellers due to limited services and less frequent public transport.

Georgia (country) ↔ Russia

The principal international road crossing to Russia is at the Kazbegi/Larsi pass on the Georgian Military Highway; flights between Tbilisi and Russian cities may be limited depending on political and regulatory conditions. Airlines: historically Aeroflot and other carriers served Tbilisi-Moscow, but schedules can change - check current availability. Note: parts of the Georgia-Russia border run alongside or through areas with disputed status (Abkhazia, South Ossetia); crossing into breakaway regions is subject to special restrictions and may carry legal and safety implications.

Crossings

Larsi / Verkhny Lars (Kazbegi) - North Ossetia/Georgia-Russia highway (Mtskheta‑Mountianous (Kazbegi) to North Ossetia-Alania (Russia)) - The main high‑altitude road crossing on the Georgian Military Highway - heavily used by trucks and tourist buses in summer. Weather can close the pass in winter; expect thorough passport and vehicle checks and allow extra time for customs.
Note on breakaway regions (Abkhazia, South Ossetia) (Breakaway territories along the Russia-Georgia line) - Crossings via Abkhazia or South Ossetia are controlled by local de facto authorities and/or Russian forces; they are closed to or inadvisable for most international travellers and can have legal consequences for subsequent travel through Georgia. Avoid attempting these crossings without official guidance.

How to Get Around Georgia (country)

Flights

Domestic and regional flights connect Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi; Georgian Airways operates several internal and regional links while low-cost carriers serve Kutaisi from parts of Europe. Prices for internal sectors are usually modest - expect domestic fares typically in the €30-€120 range.

Use flights to bridge long distances (for example to reach Batumi from Tbilisi) when time is limited.

Trains

Georgia’s intercity services are run by Georgian Railway, with comfortable daytime and overnight options on routes such as Tbilisi-Batumi. Tickets are inexpensive compared with air travel - short to medium journeys often cost under €20, longer overnight sleepers more.

Trains are a good option for scenic travel across the country but check schedules in advance as frequencies vary by season.

Buses & marshrutkas

Minibuses (marshrutkas) and longer-distance coaches connect cities and smaller towns; marshrutkas depart frequently from central hubs in Tbilisi and are cheap (a few lari for city trips, longer intercity trips vary).

Coaches to neighbouring countries run from major terminals - book in advance for popular routes or travel weekends.

Car & hire

Driving is a popular way to explore Georgia’s mountains and rural areas; rental cars are widely available in Tbilisi and at airports. Mountain roads can be narrow and weather-dependent, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended for highland routes.

Allow extra time for winter conditions and check local insurance/permit rules before setting off.

Ride share & taxis

Ride‑hailing apps such as Bolt operate in Tbilisi and provide an easy alternative to street taxis; metered taxis are common too and negotiable for some journeys. City trips are generally affordable (several lari within central districts).

For airport transfers, prebooked taxis or app rides are convenient and transparent.

Where to Stay in Georgia (country) #

Hotels & Resorts

$40-120 mid-range · $120+ luxury

Tbilisi is the main base for mid-range and luxury hotels, especially around Rustaveli, Mtatsminda and Old Town. Batumi on the Black Sea has beachfront resorts, while mountain resort hotels serve Kazbegi and Bakuriani for alpine activities.

Hostels & Budget

$8-25 / night

Budget travelers will find good hostels in Tbilisi Old Town and near Liberty Square. Small dorms and private rooms are also common in Kutaisi and Batumi for overland visitors connecting trains and buses.

Guesthouses & Homestays

$15-50 / night

Family-run guesthouses are widespread in Kazbegi (Stepantsminda), Svaneti (Mestia, Ushguli) and the Kakheti wine region. Hosts often include home-cooked meals - great for experiencing local cuisine and mountain hospitality.

Mountain Guesthouses

$20-60 / night

For trekkers, small mountain guesthouses in Svaneti and Tusheti provide basic rooms and guide connections. Book ahead in high season; Mestia and Ushguli are good staging points for multi-day hikes.

Long-Stay Rentals

$400-900 / month (Tbilisi)

Digital nomads and long-stay visitors usually rent apartments in Tbilisi neighbourhoods like Vake, Vera and Saburtalo. Monthly furnished rentals and co-living options are common and convenient for extended stays.

Staying Connected in Georgia (country) #

Internet in Georgia is reliable in cities with good 4G coverage and widely available fixed broadband in urban areas. Mobile coverage and data packages are affordable; speeds are typically adequate for streaming and remote work in Tbilisi and Batumi. Rural areas may have weaker service.

Tourist SIM Cards

Pick up a prepaid SIM at Tbilisi airport, kiosks, or operator stores for around $2-8. MagtiCom and Silknet sell starter packs with daily or weekly data bundles suitable for short stays.

Mobile Providers

Major operators are MagtiCom and Silknet, both offering wide 4G coverage in cities and good speeds for streaming and maps. Expect affordable top-ups and data bundles ranging roughly $3-15 depending on data included.

Wi-Fi & Coworking

Hotels and cafés in Tbilisi and Batumi commonly provide free Wi‑Fi; speeds are generally reliable in urban areas. For longer stays, look for coworking spaces in Tbilisi (day passes $5-15) with stable connections and AC power.

Coverage is strongest in main cities and along major roads; some rural and mountainous regions have limited service. eSIM availability is limited to select providers and plans-check carriers before travel.

Health & Safety in Georgia (country) #

Georgia is generally safe for travelers, with low levels of violent crime in tourist areas. Top concerns are road safety on mountainous routes, petty theft in cities, and hazards in breakaway border regions; take normal urban precautions and respect mountain safety rules.

Road Safety - Driving can be aggressive and roads in rural and mountain areas are narrow and poorly maintained. Expect fast local drivers, few streetlights at night and occasional landslides in bad weather - avoid night driving outside major cities.
Scams & Petty Crime - Tbilisi and tourist sites see pocketing, bag snatches and occasional taxi scams. Use metered or app taxis, keep valuables out of sight, and be cautious around crowded markets and public transport, especially after dark.
Health Risks - Routine vaccinations are recommended and Hepatitis A vaccination is advised for many travelers. Medical care in Tbilisi is reasonable, but rural and mountain clinics are limited - bring prescriptions and travel insurance with medical evacuation cover.
Mountain & Weather Hazards - Georgia's Greater and Lesser Caucasus have steep terrain, rapid weather changes, avalanches and snow in winter. Hire experienced guides for hikes, check avalanche forecasts and carry warm, waterproof gear and a charged phone/GPS device.
Political Stability & Border Areas - Georgia is generally stable, but avoid the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and their administrative boundary lines - these areas are controlled by Russia and present detention and security risks.
Food & Water - Tap water in cities is usually chlorinated but tastes may vary; use bottled or filtered water if sensitive. Food hygiene is generally good in established restaurants; be cautious with street food and raw produce if you have a sensitive stomach.

History & Culture of Georgia (country) #

Georgia is known for its long history at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a distinct language and alphabet, ancient winemaking practices and strong traditions of hospitality. Visitors encounter dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval churches and lively supra feasts.

History of Georgia (country)

Georgia’s cultural landscape reflects ancient kingdoms (Colchis and Iberia), early adoption of Christianity and a medieval ‘Golden Age’ under rulers who patronized arts and literature. Travelers will encounter centuries‑old churches, fortified villages in the mountains and classical Georgian architecture in Tbilisi.

Later histories include periods under Persian and Ottoman influence, Russian imperial rule and Soviet incorporation; independence in 1991 was followed by political change including the Rose Revolution and the 2008 conflict with Russia-events visible in museums, memorials and public discourse.

Notable Figures

King David IV (the Builder) - Medieval king who centralized the kingdom and initiated cultural and military revival in the 11th-12th centuries.
Queen Tamar - Ruler during Georgia's Golden Age whose reign is associated with political strength and cultural flowering.
Shota Rustaveli - Medieval poet best known for the epic 'The Knight in the Panther's Skin,' central to Georgian literature.
Joseph Stalin - Soviet leader born in Georgia; his legacy is visible in museums and monuments in his hometown of Gori.

Key Dates

c. 6th-4th century BCE

Early kingdoms such as Colchis and Iberia appear in regional records and Greek myth (e.g., the Argonauts legend).
4th century CE

Christianity is adopted as the state religion in Iberia, shaping Georgian religious culture for centuries.
11th-12th centuries

A medieval Golden Age under kings such as David IV and Queen Tamar with flourishing arts and state consolidation.
1801

Eastern Georgian kingdoms were annexed into the Russian Empire, beginning a long period of imperial rule.
1918

Brief independence as the Democratic Republic of Georgia (1918-1921) after the Russian Empire's collapse.
1921

Sovietization of Georgia and incorporation into the USSR as the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic.
1991

Georgia declared independence from the Soviet Union.
2008

Armed conflict with Russia over South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a recent event with ongoing political significance.

Supra (feast) and the Tamada

The supra is a ceremonial feast where a toastmaster (tamada) leads toasts, songs and protocols-toast culture structures social bonds and storytelling.

Ancient wine culture

Georgia claims one of the world's oldest wine traditions; wine is integral to hospitality and rites, and many families make wine at home.

Orthodox Christianity and monasteries

The Georgian Orthodox Church is a major cultural institution; medieval churches and monasteries are common pilgrimage and tourist sites.

Polyphonic singing

Layered vocal harmonies vary by region and are performed at weddings, church services and public occasions-listening to live polyphony is often a highlight.

Regional identities

Georgia's small geographic area contains strong regional identities-food, dress and dialects shift noticeably from Kakheti to Svaneti or Adjara.

Hospitality and gift-giving

Guests are treated with generous portions and frequent toasts; bringing a small gift to a host is appreciated.

Georgian cuisine is hearty and communal, known for bread and cheese (khachapuri), dumplings (khinkali), walnut-based sauces, and an emphasis on shared dishes during supra feasts.

Khachapuri ხაჭაპური

A cheese-filled bread that comes in regional varieties (Adjarian, Imeretian), often eaten hot and shared.

Khinkali ხინკალი

Large, spiced meat dumplings eaten by hand-suck the broth first, then bite and discard the doughy top.

Lobio ლობიო

A hearty bean stew/flavored mash often seasoned with cilantro, walnuts and spices; a common home-cooked dish.

Churchkhela ჩურჩხელა

A traditional snack of nuts threaded on string and dipped repeatedly in thickened grape must, then dried into a chewy candy.

Pkhali

Seasoned purées of spinach, beet or other vegetables mixed with ground walnuts and spices, served as cold appetizers.

Satsivi (walnut sauce)

A rich walnut-and-spice sauce often served with poultry at feasts and winter meals.

Language

Georgian (ქართული, kartuli) is the official language with its own unique script; Russian and English are also spoken in many places, but learning a few Georgian phrases is appreciated by locals.

Useful Phrases

Greetings

Hello - გამარჯობა ga-mar-JO-ba
Good/well (often used in replies) - კარგად kar-GAD
Thank you - გმადლობთ / მადლობა gmad-LOBT / mad-LO-ba

Getting Around

Where is this? - ეს სად არის? es sad a-RIS?
How much is it? - რამდენი ღირს? ram-DEN-i ghirs?

Dining

Please / Here you go - გთხოვთ gtkhovT
It's delicious - საუკეთესოა sau-ke-ta-so-a

Emergency

Help! - დახმარება! dakh-ma-RE-ba!
Accident / emergency (use with authorities) - უბედური შემთხვევა u-be-DU-ri she-tskhe-ba

Respect the supra and toast culture

If invited to a supra, listen to the tamada (toastmaster) and follow the sequence of toasts; toasts can be elaborate and refusing repeatedly may be expected before acceptance.

Remove shoes at homes

Hosts frequently ask guests to remove shoes-wear clean socks and be prepared to step into a warm, hospitable indoor setting.

Greetings and deference

Handshakes are common in urban settings; show respect to elders and clergy when entering religious sites by dressing modestly and speaking quietly.

Bring a small gift for hosts

It's customary to bring wine, sweets or flowers when visiting someone's home-avoid overly expensive gifts to prevent discomfort.

Ask before photographing people or churches

While scenic photography is welcome, always ask before taking portraits of people or photographing active religious services.

Be mindful in contested regions

Areas near Abkhazia and South Ossetia are politically sensitive and access can be restricted; follow local advisories and avoid photographing military installations.

Polyphonic singing

Traditional Georgian polyphony-multi‑voice singing with rich harmonies-is recognized by UNESCO and remains central to village and liturgical music.

Qvevri winemaking

Ancient clay qvevri vessels buried underground are used in traditional Georgian winemaking; the method and associated rituals are an important cultural practice.

Folk dance and costume

Energetic regional dances with distinctive costumes are performed at festivals and supra feasts, highlighting regional styles and martial or courtly themes.

Responsible Travel in Georgia (country) #

Georgia’s mix of ancient cultural sites, winemaking traditions and high mountain landscapes draws many visitors; responsible travel helps protect historic sites and fragile alpine communities.

Respecting Local Culture: Georgia’s Orthodox churches and mountain communities (e.g., Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta and the Svaneti villages) observe modest dress and quiet behaviour; remove hats in churches, ask before photographing clergy or elders, and accept hospitality with courtesy.
Supporting Georgian Wine Traditions: Visit family-run cellars in Kakheti and try traditional qvevri winemaking at small producers rather than large industrial tours, and buy bottles or local foods directly from producers to keep tourism revenue local.
Mountain & Trail Stewardship: When trekking in Kazbegi or Svaneti stick to marked trails, hire certified local guides from nearby communities, and pack out all waste to protect fragile alpine ecosystems.
Protecting Historic Sites: At UNESCO and historic sites in Mtskheta and other towns, follow signage and barriers, avoid climbing monuments or removing stones, and use licensed guides to support conservation.

Travel Resources for Georgia (country) #

Official

Georgian National Tourism Administration (Georgia.travel) Official Tourism
Government of Georgia (gov.ge) Government
Georgia e-Visa Portal Visas
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia Government / Foreign Affairs

Travel Advisories

News & Media

Agenda.ge English
Georgia Today English
OC Media English
Reuters - Georgia coverage English

Useful Links

Useful Apps for Georgia (country)

Google Maps - Essential for navigation, offline maps, and local business info.
Apple | Android
Google Translate - Translate signs, menus, and conversation from Georgian and other languages.
Apple | Android
Bolt - Popular ride-hailing in Tbilisi and other Georgian cities.
Apple | Android
WhatsApp - Main messaging app used for local communication and bookings.
Apple | Android

Booking.com - Widely used to find and book accommodations across Georgia.
Apple | Android