Georgia travel guide: Practical information
Traveling to Georgia is very easy and convenient for Turkish citizens. Entry is allowed with the new ID card, and neither a passport nor a visa is required. Border crossings are usually quick, but it’s essential to make sure your ID is up-to-date and has a chip.
Currency and budget
The country’s currency is the Georgian Lari. In Tbilisi, a filling meal from street vendors or small restaurants costs between 15–25 Lari. Public transportation tickets are about 1–2 Lari, and museum admission fees range from 5–10 Lari.
Transportation
For intercity travel in Georgia, trains, buses, and shared taxis are the main options. The train ride between Tbilisi and Batumi takes about five hours, with a second-class ticket costing around 35 Lari. City taxis are also fairly inexpensive, though meters are seldom used; therefore, it’s important to agree on the fare before getting in. In both Tbilisi and Batumi, ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yandex Go offer safe, fixed-price rides. Tbilisi Airport is 17 km from the city center, and the 24-hour bus line 337 provides the cheapest connection to downtown.
Travel apps that come in handy
Several apps can make traveling in Georgia much easier. As mentioned above, Bolt and Yandex Go let you get taxis safely and at reasonable prices. Navigating the city becomes simple with Google Maps and its offline maps feature. For those using public transportation, the Tbilisi Transport app provides bus and metro schedules. Food delivery apps like Glovo and Wolt, which are especially popular in Tbilisi and Batumi, offer quick and convenient options.
The first step for your Georgia trip is booking your flight. While Tbilisi and Batumi are the main attractions on most itineraries, Borjomi’s natural beauty and Kutaisi’s historic charm add a different flavor to the journey. Once everything is ready, it’s time to head out and explore.
Days 1 and 2: Exploring Tbilisi, the heart of Georgia
Georgian word ‘tbili,’ meaning “warm,” referring to the hot springs connected to its founding legend. According to legend, King Vakhtang Gorgasali found these springs while hunting and decided to build a city nearby. Today, the Abanotubani district, with its dome-shaped sulfur baths, still embodies that legend’s spirit. The Old Town is where visitors truly experience the soul of Tbilisi. Its cobblestone streets are lined with traditional houses that feature wooden balconies; small cafés and colorful shops give the neighborhood the feel of an open-air museum. The Anchiskhati Basilica, dating from the 6th century, is the oldest church in the city. Sioni Cathedral, rebuilt multiple times after countless calamities, remains a powerful symbol of the Georgian people’s enduring devotion to their history.
Overlooking the city, Narikala Fortress has stood since the 4th century AD. A cable car ride from Rike Park takes you up to breathtaking views of Tbilisi in all its details. At the fortress’s base is the Botanical Garden, one of the city’s lushest spots, filled with diverse plant species and walking paths. A walk along the Kura River and up Rustaveli Avenue reveals the modern side of Tbilisi, with the Parliament building, the Georgian National Museum, and the Opera House lining this boulevard. The National Museum is especially notable for its collections, which range from archaeological finds to the Soviet era. Among the city’s post-independence landmarks is Sameba Cathedral. Completed in 2004, it is the largest cathedral in the Caucasus. Another modern symbol of Tbilisi is the Bridge of Peace on the Kura River, connecting the old and new parts of the city with its glass-and-steel design. Together, these two structures create a striking visual dialogue between past and present. Mtatsminda Hill is one of the most popular spots to enjoy the city panorama. The funicular line, opened in 1905, takes visitors to the top in just a few minutes. From there, you can see the television tower, amusement park, and viewing terraces. At sunset, you can watch the entire city shimmer with lights from this vantage point.
Just above Narikala Fortress stands the Kartlis Deda, the Mother of Georgia statue. Towering 20 meters tall, the figure holds a sword in one hand and a wine cup in the other. This symbolic gesture represents a nation ready to offer wine to guests in friendship but also prepared to defend itself against enemies. Visible from many parts of the city, the statue has become one of Tbilisi’s most recognizable landmarks. On the outskirts of the city, near the Tbilisi Sea, stands the “Chronicles of Georgia” monument, a massive complex built in the late 20th century. Towering columns, some over 30 meters tall, are carved with depictions of Georgian kings and key Christian figures. The bronze reliefs showcase the nation’s history and religious traditions in a dramatic style. The hilltop location of the monument also adds to its impact.
The city’s gastronomy is one of the most memorable parts of a visit. On the streets of Tbilisi, the dishes you’ll most often encounter are khachapuri and khinkali. Khachapuri, similar to the Black Sea region’s pide, is especially famous in its version topped with a raw egg in the center. Khinkali, large dumplings filled with meat and broth, are best enjoyed when you manage to eat them without spilling the savory juices inside. Another staple is mtsvadi, skewered meat grilled over coals and served in its simplest, most flavorful form. Lobio, a traditional red bean stew, is usually paired with cornbread, while badrijani nigvzit, eggplant rolls stuffed with walnut paste, showcases Georgia’s meze tradition. Also common on Georgian tables are varieties of pkhali, prepared with fresh herbs and spices.
Wine culture in Georgia is a fascinating topic all on its own. UNESCO has recognized the country’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition as part of the “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” Wines made in clay vessels called qvevri are especially unique, celebrated for their amber hue. Among the most renowned varieties are full-bodied reds from Saperavi grapes and the crisp whites of Tsinandali. While you can easily try these at many spots around the city, it’s also worth exploring lesser-known varieties like Kindzmarauli, Mukuzani, and Rkatsiteli.
For a more detailed guide to Tbilisi, check out our full article. Once you’ve explored the city and gained some experience, it’s time to head across Georgia from east to west. Starting early, your next destination is Borjomi—an introduction to the country’s natural beauty.
Day 3: Borjomi: Thermal springs and a retreat to nature
Day Three is the time to leave city life behind and head to Borjomi, a small town known for its natural beauty. Direct minibuses from Tbilisi take about 2.5–3 hours to reach Borjomi. Famous for its mineral springs and spas, Borjomi has been recognized as a wellness retreat since the 19th century; even the Russian Tsar’s family built a summer palace there.
At the top of the must-see list is Borjomi Central Park. Strolling through, you’ll feel refreshed by towering trees and crisp mountain air. The walking paths lead to Borjomi’s natural mineral water fountains. Further inside the park, you’ll find a thermal pool, and if you’ve brought a swimsuit, you can relax in the hot mineral waters. We also recommend taking the cable car to the top of the park, where a viewpoint overlooks the entire Borjomi Valley and a small Ferris wheel awaits you.
For nature enthusiasts, another stop in Borjomi is the Borjomi–Kharagauli National Park. If you enjoy hiking, you can get information at the park center and go on a short nature walk. The easy one- to two-hour trails especially feature lush forests and fresh mountain air. For lunch, Borjomi is known for its local mushroom dishes and meat stews. Since it is a small town, most cafés and restaurants are gathered along the main street.
During your stay in Borjomi, your day will focus more on nature and relaxation. In the late afternoon, if you wish, you can set out for your next destination, Kutaisi. If there’s no direct bus from Borjomi to Kutaisi, you can first go to the town of Khashuri and catch a bus there. Alternatively, you can take the train from Borjomi. The nostalgic Borjomi–Bakuriani train, known locally as “Kukushka,” has been running since the early 20th century and offers a leisurely journey with mountain views. From this point, you can transfer and continue to Kutaisi.
Day 4: Kutaisi: City of history, culture and caves
On the fourth day, the route takes you to the city of Kutaisi in western Georgia. Kutaisi is the country’s third-largest city and the former seat of parliament. Kutaisi is a destination that blends history with nature. Spend a full day here exploring the city’s historic landmarks, and, if you like, take a short trip to the natural wonders that lie just beyond its outskirts.
The first stop in Kutaisi is the city’s symbol, the Bagrati Cathedral. Built in the 11th century, the cathedral sits on a hill overlooking the city, its green dome immediately catching the eye. Destroyed in the 17th century, Bagrati was restored and reopened for worship in 2012. Another highlight is just 10 kilometers from the center: the Gelati Monastery. Commissioned in the 12th century by King David, this monastic complex is among the greatest treasures of the Georgian Orthodox world. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gelati once served as both a medieval academy and a religious center. Inside, you’ll find fresco-covered churches and the tomb of King David himself. The vivid colors of the frescoes on the walls of the Church of the Virgin are especially striking. You can easily reach Gelati by taxi from the city center or join one of the affordable tours available.
Don’t forget to spend some time in Kutaisi’s city center. The Kolkheti Fountain, set in a central square and adorned with golden statues of the Golden Fleece, makes for a striking sight and a favorite photo spot. Just nearby is the Kutaisi Market, an authentic bazaar where locals sell vegetables, fruits, spices, and even cheese. Here you can find Georgian specialties such as sulguni cheese and churchkhela, the traditional walnut-studded sweet.
For nature enthusiasts, the surroundings of Kutaisi offer plenty as well. About 20 kilometers from the city lies the Prometheus Cave, recognised for its illuminated walking trail, dramatic stalactites, and stalagmites. If you’re on a tour, it ends with a short boat ride along the underground river. Slightly further out, the Okatse Canyon has breathtaking views from its high walking platforms. As night falls, you can enjoy local dishes at small taverns while listening to live Georgian music. If you wish, the next morning you can continue your route down to the Black Sea coast and head toward Batumi.
Day 5: The final stop of the Georgia trip: Batumi
Your last day in Georgia can be spent exploring Batumi, the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara. Located on the Black Sea coast, Batumi is a vibrant port city distinguished by its modern skyscrapers, seaside promenade, and historic charm. During summer, visitors from Türkiye often pass through, making Turkish a common language on the streets and adding to the city’s cosmopolitan vibe. A great place to begin exploring is the Batumi Boulevard, the city’s iconic landmark since the 19th century. Stretching for seven kilometers along the coast, the boulevard is lined with palm trees, fountains, and public art. It’s ideal for a stroll or bike ride with views of the sea. Although the beach gets crowded in summer, evenings bring a festive vibe, especially in the “New Boulevard” area, where musical fountain shows illuminate the night. As you walk along the boulevard, you’ll discover some of Batumi’s most famous landmarks. The Alphabet Tower rises in the shape of a DNA helix, incorporating the letters of the Georgian alphabet into its design. Nearby are a Ferris wheel and a lighthouse. The Chacha Tower, reminiscent of Izmir’s Clock Tower, also draws attention. On the waterfront stands the “Ali and Nino” Statue, a moving sculpture where two metal figures merge and then separate, making it one of Batumi’s most striking monuments. In the city center, Europe Square is considered the heart of Batumi. At its center is the statue of Medea holding the Golden Fleece, surrounded by European-style buildings and cafés. Just a short walk away, Piazza Square charms visitors with its Italian-inspired architecture and mosaic-covered ground; it’s also a great spot for a coffee break during the day or live music in the evening. Just outside the city lies the Batumi Botanical Garden, stretching along the Black Sea coast and home to plant species from around the world. Other notable sights include the Ottoman-era Orta Mosque, the Archaeological Museum, and the Argo viewing point, accessible by cable car.
Batum’s cuisine combines Black Sea flavors and Georgian traditions. One of its most popular dishes is Adjarian khachapuri, best enjoyed with fresh fish or local meze. Turkish influence is also evident in the city; even çiğköfte (raw meatball) shops line the streets. In the evenings, Batumi takes on a different vibe. Seaside venues stay open until dawn, while downtown cafes offer a quieter setting. Summer jazz festivals contribute to the city’s lively scene. As you wrap up your trip along Georgia’s Black Sea coast, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes of mountains, cities, and shoreline, each revealing a different side of the country in just a few days.
This five-day travel guide to Georgia brings together the country’s main attractions from east to west. Of course, Georgia has much more to offer: in the north, you can explore the mountain villages of Kazbegi or the glacial valleys of Svaneti, while in the east lie the vineyards of Kakheti. With its cultural richness and warm hospitality, Georgia is a place where you’ll never feel like a stranger. Along the way, you might hear Turkish spoken and find familiar flavors in the local cuisine. We hope this budget-friendly itinerary is both helpful and inspiring. Booking a flight to Tbilisi may be the first step toward your journey. And don’t forget to take plenty of photos and enjoy every moment.
