Travel tips for Georgia

We have created this text with many useful travel tips for Georgia, especially for travellers who are visiting the beautiful country for the first time and want to plan their trip themselves.

The article covers information on cultural and natural sights as well as various tourist activities. It also provides practical advices and information on the best times to travel depending on the type of trip you are planning. We hope you find these tips useful.

If you require more information, please use the contact form at the end of the text to send us your questions. We are happy to help and look forward to hearing from you.

Cultural sites

1. old town of Tbilisi

A very special highlight among the cultural travel tips for Georgia is the charming old town of Tbilisi with its unique attractions. A typical tour takes about three hours and includes the Sulfur Baths, Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, Freedom Square, Peace Bridge, Figs Gorge with Waterfall, a mosque and much more.

From the cable car, guests have a fantastic view of the statue of the Mother of Georgia and can enjoy the city. This wonderful tour offers you unique insights into the history, culture and modernity of Tbilisi. If you have a little more time, we can highly recommend a visit to the impressive Botanical Garden of Tbilisi.

2. City of Mtskheta with Svetitskhoveli and Jvari

If you’re looking for another fascinating city in Georgia, we would highly recommend Mtskheta. It’s just a short 25-kilometre trip from Tbilisi, and it’s well worth the visit! Mtskheta has a fascinating history! Until the 5th century, it was the capital and royal seat of Iberia, an ancient Georgian country. So many important historical and religious events have taken place here!

Mtskheta is well-known for two impressive Christian buildings: the 12th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the 6th-7th-century Jvari Church. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are absolutely amazing examples of Georgian culture and architecture. Mtskheta is a truly special place, considered a holy city and a top tourist destination in Georgia.

3. Holy Trinity Church in Stepazminda/Kazbeg

This 14th-century church in the picturesque mountainous region of Stepantsminda/Kazbeg is a beautiful and famous tourist destination in Georgia. The wonderful church is built on an impressive 2200-metre-high mountain and impresses visitors with its breathtaking location, where you can see the 5047-metre-high mountain Mkinvari in the background.

The church can be accessed via hiking trails or by car. If you want to fully experience the mountain atmosphere, we recommend hiking. From the church, there is a truly impressive view of the valley and the settlement of Stepantsminda.

4. Cave city of Vardzia in South Georgia

Vardzia is a unique cave town dating back to the 12th century, located in the Kura Valley in South Georgia. It is an impressive testament to the golden age of Georgia. The complex includes several hundred rooms and halls, including living areas, a pharmacy, a wine cellar, churches and water reservoirs. All these rooms are connected by tunnels.

A particular highlight is the chapel carved into the rock, with its stunning frescoes, including a rare image of Queen Tamar. The location of the complex is truly idyllic and from there you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Lesser Caucasus.

5. Ancient city of Uplisziche near Gori

This impressive ancient city, which was built in Inner Kartli/Shida kartli between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, is situated on the Kura River near Gori. In pre-Christian times, it was an important political and religious centre in Georgia, with a highly developed infrastructure that attracted people from across the region.

The complex includes a wide range of spaces, including living rooms, a pharmacy, pantries, sacrificial sites, escape tunnels, temples and even a theatre. There are also gutters and canals that prove that a functioning sewage system already existed at the time.

As a city on the Silk Road, trade bloomed, which helped its population to achieve great wealth. Unfortunately, with the spread of Christianity, the city lost its importance. And finally, it was destroyed by the Mongol invasion.

During a one-and-a-half-hour tour of the city, you will also have the wonderful opportunity to discover the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. Please be careful when it rains, as the sandstone structure can become slippery.

6. Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi

The Gelati Monastery is a real treasure of Georgian culture and history. It was built in the 12th century by King David the Fourth and represents the Golden Age of Georgia. The impressive Gelati Monastery is located in a beautiful forest near the city of Kutaisi. It served as the seat of the famous Gelati Academy, which was also known as the ‘second Athos’.

The wonderful monastery, which was never destroyed or damaged, still shows us its original architecture today. A very special attraction are the magnificent wall paintings from different centuries, showing the impressive development of the Georgian School of Painting. And the precious mosaic of the Mother of God in the apse is truly worth seeing. This marvelous complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited and popular attractions in Georgia.

7. Village of Ushguli and towers in Svaneti

Svaneti is a very special part of Georgia. It fascinates with its breathtaking natural beauty and unique architectural monuments. The famous Swanetan towers, the medieval house complexes and the chapels decorated with beautiful wall paintings are truly something very special and unique in the whole world.

A very particular highlight is the beautiful village of Chejashi in the Ushguli community. It is located at an altitude of 2200 metres and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The residential complexes and towers from the 9th to 13th century, especially the Luschnu-Kor, make the village very special. An old tower museum presents beautiful artefacts from Ushguli’s past.

Another special destination is the medieval chapel of Lamaria, which is located next to a tower and offers a fantastic view of the Schkharas. You can reach Ushguli from Lentechi via the picturesque passes of Sagaro and Lasdili.

8. Sighnaghi – city of love

If you are in Kakheti, be sure to visit the charming town of Sighnaghi. This enchanting hilltop town will captivate you with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the Alazani Plain and the majestic Greater Caucasus. Strolling through the narrow streets, especially at sunset, is a truly unique experience and a popular photo opportunity.

A very impressive highlight is the city wall, which Sighnaghi has as the only city in Georgia (with the capital Tbilisi). It extends over a length of 7 to 8 kilometres and dates from the late Middle Ages. The well-preserved wall is an attraction that you should definitely visit. Take a walk along the wall and enjoy the magnificent view.

Near the city is the beautiful convent of St. Nino, the enlightener of Georgia. A visit is definitely worthwhile to experience the wonderful spiritual atmosphere of the monastery.

9. Davit-Garedja Monastery

This stunning 6th-century monastery is located in the picturesque steppes of Kakheti, a breathtaking landscape in eastern Georgia. It was founded by Saint Davit, one of the 13 Assyrian monk fathers who were missionaries in Georgia at the time. The monastery consists of various parts, including a cave where the monk Davit lived, a main chapel, rock caves that served as dwellings, as well as a wall and a tower.

A highlight of the monastery is the cave monastery located on the ridge, with its unique wall paintings and breathtaking view over the steppes towards the Georgian and Azerbaijani sides. Even the route to the monastery is a real highlight, offering impressive scenery. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful, steppe-like landscape and take photos. With a bit of luck, you may even see vultures, foxes or other animals. The asphalt road to the monastery is ideal for cyclists.

Attention! We would like to inform you that there are poisonous snakes in the area (Macrovipera lebetinus). Although they are rarely seen on the path and near the monastery, you should still be particularly careful, especially when entering the meadows to take pictures or for other reasons.

10. Village of Saro with megalithic ruins

This village is located on a high plateau in South Georgia at an altitude of 1400 metres and is characterised by its typical South Georgian architecture. The ‘Mes’khuri Darabzi’ or Mes’khi halls, many from the 17th and 18th centuries, can be admired here and continue to impress visitors to this day.

The village is famous for the ruins of an ancient castle complex from the second millennium BC, a representative example of the megalithic culture of Georgia. The well-preserved ruins convey an impression of the former size and splendour of the castle and the culture of the time.

Today, the village is home to a monastery with a medieval church that can be enjoyed from an impressive view of the surrounding villages. Due to its uniqueness, this site is one of the best travel tips in Georgia.

Natural sites

1. Sataplea and Prometheus Caves

The two stunning karst caves in the picturesque region of Imereti are a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature. The beautiful Prometheus Cave near Tkaltubo is one of the most popular attractions in the country and is definitely worth a visit.

On a guided tour through the colourfully illuminated cave, visitors can admire the breathtaking beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites. The approximately one-hour tour is a special experience not to be missed. If you wish, you can also take a boat trip through a natural corridor.

The Sataplia Cave also delights with impressive rock formations and a beautiful surrounding forest that invites you to take a leisurely walk. From an observation platform, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the charming city of Kutaisi and the impressive Zekari Pass.

2. Georgian Military Road to Stepantsminda / Kazbeg

A very special highlight of the country is the so-called Georgian Military Road, which runs from Tbilisi northwards to Russia and ends in the beautiful Dariali Gorge in Stepantsminda. The military road has immense strategic importance and was often used by Georgian kings.

In the 19th century, it was used by Russia for military purposes, which explains the name it still bears today. The route crosses a unique landscape that makes it a very special and fascinating passage. The high mountains and deep gorges of the Caucasus exert a special fascination on all travellers who take this route.

Along the way, there are some wonderful sights that you should definitely see. The impressive Ananuri Castle tells of the power and history of bygone eras.

Another architectural highlight is the Jinvali Dam, an engineering masterpiece that impressively demonstrates how Georgia is leading the way in water supply. From an observation platform, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, which will inspire you with its mountains, forests and rivers.

The Jinwali Dam, a masterpiece of engineering, shows Georgia’s progress in the field of water supply. A viewing platform offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape of mountains, forests and rivers.

3. Steppes of David Gareja and Alazani Plain in Kakheti

The stunning beauty of Kakheti is characterised by two very special features: the breathtaking steppe landscapes of Davit Gareja and the fertile Alazani plain, which extends at the foot of the majestic Caucasus Mountains. The steppes of Gareja are one of Georgia’s highlights.

The area is particularly stunning in spring and early summer, when the meadows are in full bloom and numerous birds can be observed. The route to the monastery through the steppes is a dream for cyclists, and horse riders can also take wonderful trips here. In the steppes there are some beautiful salt lakes, which are a dream come true for photographers.

Please be careful, as there are poisonous snakes in the region. But don’t worry, you are unlikely to encounter them, especially not on the way to the monastery.

The Alazani plain is a real natural highlight in the Kakheti region. From Sighnaghi and Telavi, you have spectacular views of the plain. The breathtaking sunrises and sunsets are a very special experience, bathing the landscape in a very special light with the impressive Caucasian mountains in the background.

4. Abano Pass to Tusheti

Tusheti, a picturesque mountainous region in eastern Georgia, is a very special place. Here you will find unique villages in the Caucasian mountains, impressive architecture and breathtaking landscapes. The route starts in Alvani, a charming village in Kakheti, and covers a distance of about 70 km to the centre of Tusheti, Omalo. You will cross the impressive Abano Pass at an altitude of about 3000 metres.

This trip is truly a worthwhile experience to discover the breathtaking beauty of this region. Local taxi drivers are happy to help and share their knowledge and secrets about the region so that you can discover everything this beautiful area has to offer.

5. The Lesser Caucasus and its lakes

If you are looking for a very special travel experience, then the Javakheti region in Georgia is perfect for you. Here you will find breathtaking mountain lakes and impressive scenery. The Lesser Caucasus, which encompasses the southern Georgian regions of Samtskhe and Javakheti, boasts numerous volcanic mountains, picturesque rivers and large mountain lakes on high plateaus. This unique combination is not found in other parts of Georgia.

One highlight of this area is the Javakheti National Park near the small town of Ninozminda. This wonderful place is a favourite destination for birdwatchers, landscape and wildlife photographers, and nature lovers. The three lakes of Madatapa, Khanchali and Karzachi are the most popular in the park and offer a good infrastructure for birdwatchers.

The region also has two other impressive lakes that are well worth a visit: Lake Paravani, the largest lake in the country, and Lake Saghamo. These lakes are very close to each other, surrounded by impressive volcanic mountains. The route to these beautiful lakes leads over the Paravani Pass, which forms an impressive high plateau at an altitude of over 2,000 metres.

6. Shkhara valley and glaciers and mountains in Svaneti

Picturesque Svaneti is home to some of the most impressive mountains in the Caucasus, including the majestic Ushba, Tetnuli, Lahla and Ailama. A special attraction here is the opportunity to hike up to the glaciers, as is the case in Ushguli in the Enguri Valley.

The Enguri Valley invites you to take a walk along a flat and wide hiking trail to the glacier of the impressive Shkharas, the highest mountain in Georgia. The trail is lined with impressive mountain meadows, babbling brooks and thundering waterfalls, which hikers and horse riders encounter along the way.

The glacier is about 9 km from the village. The last 2 km are a bit more challenging, but it is definitely worth it. If you don’t want to walk the entire route, that’s not a problem at all. You can easily cover the first seven kilometres in a 4×4 vehicle.

Where the car drive ends, right by the river, there is a cosy café where you can relax after your journey. Here, our guests can order hot or cold drinks and enjoy the impressive mountain atmosphere. It is a perfect place to take a short break before tackling the more demanding part of the trail.

7. Shdugra waterfall in Svaneti

The waterfall in the picturesque Betscho Valley in Svaneti is undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural wonders in Georgia. A visit to this breathtaking natural spectacle is an absolute highlight for all the senses. A day hike to the waterfall is possible from the picturesque villages in the valley as well as from the charming town of Mestia.

If you start the hike from Mestia, it is a good idea to first take the car down into the valley and continue from there. The path offers an extremely pleasant hiking experience along the wild Dolra River.

There are some charming forest cafés along the way, such as the ‘Hikers Café’ at a bridge, which even has an artificial lake for swimming. These rest stops invite you to take a break, admire nature and refresh yourself before reaching the imposing natural spectacle of the waterfall.

8. Mkinwarzveri Mountain in Kazbeg

This impressive mountain, which stands at 5047 metres, rises majestically above Stepantsminda/Kazbeg and attracts both amateur and professional mountaineers. But it is not only mountaineers who are thrilled by Stepantsminda; photographers and nature lovers also love to come here to admire and photograph this imposing summit. The beautiful Holy Trinity Church, together with the impressive mountain, forms a unique image that never fails to fascinate visitors.

If you experience the mountain during sunrise or sunset, you will be particularly impressed. Thus, Stepantsminda is not only a destination for mountaineers, but also a place of inspiration for all those who want to experience the captivating beauty of nature in the Kazbegi area. There is a beautiful legend that says that Prometheus was chained to this very mountain.

9. Vashlovani National Park

This amazing place in Kakheti in eastern Georgia is affectionately known as Little Africa in the Caucasus, which is very fitting. The park presents a variety of landscapes, especially impressive steppe-like environments. The diverse flora makes the park a very special place. Particularly stunning are the numerous hundred-year-old Pistacia mutica and Pistacia atlantica trees.

But the endemic plant Paeonia tenuifolia L. is also a highlight. It flowers in May and enchants the park with its beautiful blossoms. This park is a true paradise for nature photographers, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, including bee-eaters, roller martins and vultures. Bears, wolves, foxes and a population of gazelles can also be found here on the Samuchi Plain, making this place a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

A special feature of the park is the ‘bear canyon’, a beautiful, dry riverbed where you can discover shells in the layers of earth. Here you can also see mud volcanoes, which act like small geysers. If you are interested in an activity in the park, we can recommend jeep tours, horse riding and cycling. Please be aware that the park is home to venomous snakes. Please take extra care when entering the meadows, whether you are taking pictures or for any other reason. Although they are rarely seen on the trails, we should still be careful not to get too close to them.

10. Martvili Canyon

Martvili Canyon, an impressive natural monument, is located in the picturesque village of Gachedili, which belongs to the municipality of Martvili on the breathtaking Samegrelo side. It lies about 210 metres above sea level. The friendly team at the canyon visitor centre will be happy to welcome you near the entrance.

From the centre, a magnificent 700-metre paved walkway leads to the historic Dadiani Trail. There are two bridges, three breathtaking panoramic platforms and an impressive 30-step historic staircase, all made of chalk stone.

Visitors have the wonderful opportunity to walk or take a boat trip on the Abasha River. The leisurely boat ride covers about 300 metres (one way) and offers beautiful views of the river and canyon. It is important to note that visitors must be taller than 1 metre to take the boat trip.

Our travel tips for Georgia in terms of activities will inform you about possible tourist activities in our country:

1. Cultural tours

For those who enjoy cultural round trip, Georgia is a truly wonderful and fascinating destination. As part of a secular civilisation that is thousands of years old, the country offers cultural attractions that date back to the Stone Age. Georgia is characterised by the wonderful coexistence of pre-Christian and Christian civilisations over many centuries. This has allowed a very unique cultural development to unfold.

Another feature of Georgian culture is the fusion of eastern and western influences. This region is the place where the two cultures met and a unique cultural identity emerged. Georgia’s medieval Christian culture is particularly impressive, especially in the areas of architecture and wall painting.

2. Hiking

As a mountainous country, Georgia is a true paradise for those who love hiking and mountains. The majestic mountains of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus offer ideal conditions for those who enjoy mountain activities. Not only can you go hiking in numerous national parks and protected areas such as Lagodekhi, Bordjomi-Kharagauli, Mtirala, etc., but also in all mountainous regions of the country, including Svaneti, Racha, Tusheti, Khevsureti and more.

Please note that hiking trails in Georgia are only partially marked. Therefore, we recommend that you explore the routes with a local guide or at least plan them in advance. You can camp almost anywhere in Georgia except in the protected areas. There it is only allowed in certain places. You also have the wonderful opportunity to experience fantastic snowshoe hikes in winter.

3. Cycling

This activity has been very popular in Georgia since 2018, which we are very pleased about. This beautiful country offers you opportunities for bike tours of varying difficulty. Whether you prefer to ride in the lower regions on flatter routes or take more challenging mountain bike tours in the mountainous regions, you will find what you are looking for here.

The areas in the Lesser Caucasus are particularly popular for cycling tours, as there is little traffic and breathtaking mountain scenery to discover. Cycling along the wine routes and through the steppes in Kakheti is also very popular with travellers.

Mingrelia in western Georgia is also a wonderful destination for cycling tours. Here you can take a round trip through the breathtaking region. If you are looking for more challenging MTB tours, we can highly recommend Svaneti, Racha, the highlands of Adjara and Tusheti as ideal options.

4. Photography

In Georgia, there are many fascinating photographic subjects waiting to be discovered by you on our 14-day photo tour in Georgia. The mountainous regions of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus are just fantastic places for landscape photographers, especially in autumn, while the highlands of Adjara are a wonderful option for capturing everyday life, people and landscapes.

As a former Soviet country, Georgia is full of abandoned Soviet buildings that photographers can explore as so-called ‘lost places’. The small town of Zkaltubo, with its many beautiful old sanatoriums built in the Soviet style, is particularly recommended for this.

Wildlife and nature photographers will also find wonderful places in Georgia, such as Vashlovani National Park or Javakheti National Park. The majestic mountains of the Greater Caucasus are also a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to capture the beauty of nature.

5. Mountaineering

Georgia is a real paradise for mountaineers. The mountains of the Great Caucasus, some of which are over 5000 metres high, offer a wide range of opportunities for mountaineering tours at all levels of difficulty. Here everyone will find the right challenge. The most popular summits for climbing are Mkinvarzveri in Stepantsminda/Kazbegi at 5047 metres, Ushba at 4800 metres, Tetnuldi at 4800 metres, Lahla at 4010 metres, Ailama at 4547 metres and Shkhara at 5200 metres in Svaneti.

6. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Georgia is a real highlight and an unforgettable experience, both in the picturesque mountain regions and in the breathtaking national parks and expansive steppes. Thanks to the great popularity of this activity, there are numerous providers in practically every region of the country that organise impressive riding tours. The horses they provide are very calm and well trained, so that even inexperienced riders are carried safely.

The most popular regions for horse riding tours are Vashlovani National Park, Tusheti, Svaneti, Borjomi-Kharagauli and Lagodekhi National Park. In these enchanting areas, travellers can not only experience the breathtaking landscape from horseback, but also discover the impressive diversity of Georgian nature and culture in a unique way.

7. Jeep Tour

Being a mountainous country, Georgia offers numerous dreamlike passes, making it a fantastic destination for off-road enthusiasts. Routes also run through the beautiful steppes of David Gareja and Vashlovani National Park and Tusheti.

There are many friendly providers in the country who rent out well-suited 4×4 cars for such tours. These vehicles are in good condition and, most importantly, they are insured, so you don’t have to worry. Please take extra care when driving on busy roads, as driving in Georgia is considered a bit wild.

The most famous and beautiful directions and destinations for a jeep tour in Georgia are the Vashlovani National Park, Tusheti, the Zekari Pass between South and East Georgia, Lake Tabatskuri in the Lesser Caucasus, and Svaneti with the Lasdili and Zagaro passes. These regions not only offer breathtaking landscapes, but also the wonderful opportunity to pursue your passion for off-road adventure.

8. Wine and culinary tours

It will come as no surprise that wine tours are very popular in Georgia, the oldest wine country in the world. The incredible variety of wines makes the country one of the most popular destinations in the region. Each region has its own unique wines, which makes wine tours here extremely diverse and interesting.

Our wine tours take us throughout the country, but also to eastern Georgia. Our guests have the opportunity to visit both large wine factories and small, fine family wineries. Here you will not only have the opportunity to taste delicious local wines, but also to get to know the famous Georgian method of wine production, known as ‘Qvevri wine’.

Of course, culinary experiences are also a focus, in addition to wine. Our guests have the wonderful opportunity to take part in our culinary evenings. Here, they can prepare delicious local dishes together with our hosts. This offers you a wonderful opportunity to experience not only the wine, but also the culinary diversity of Georgia.

9. Birdwatching

It is wonderful to see how bird watching and photography is becoming more and more popular with Georgians every year. Many nature lovers visit this wonderful country specifically to watch and photograph different species of birds. The following regions in Georgia are currently particularly popular for bird watching: Ajaria, where a special infrastructure has been created in the village of Sakhalvasho to enable guests to observe migratory birds. The Kolkheti National Park on the Black Sea is also well worth a visit. Numerous bird species can be found here, populating the swamp landscape. Another highlight is the Vazhlovani National Park in Kakheti.

There are also wonderful places for bird watching in South Georgia. Javakheti National Park, with its numerous mountain lakes, is highly recommended. In the beautiful mountainous regions of Georgia, such as Stepantsminda, you can also discover very special species of birds, including vultures.

10. Rafting

The variety of Georgia’s riverscapes offers you numerous opportunities for an exciting and unforgettable adventure that you won’t forget in a hurry: rafting! The Aragvi River along the Military Road, the Rioni in Racha-Lechkhumi and the Tskhenistskali in Svaneti are among the most popular and beautiful rivers for rafting in Georgia.

Flights to Georgia

There are international airports in Georgia – in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi. You can book both direct flights and connecting flights to Georgia. Here you will find some airlines that fly to Georgia

Direct flights

• Lufthansa
• Eurowings
• Condor
• Wizzair

Flights with transfers

• Pegasus
• Turkish Airlines
• Airbaltik
• Austrian
• Lot

Other links

• Fluege.de
• Skyscanner
• Idealo

Entry, visa, residence

Entry documents:

• Passport: Visitors from Germany, Austria and Switzerland can travel to Georgia with a passport, provided that it is valid for at least six months.
• Identity card: Citizens of Germany and Austria can also travel to Georgia with an identity card if they are taking a direct flight. However, if they are taking a flight with a stopover, they must also carry passports, as some countries may not accept the identity card.

Visa

Citizens of Germany, Austria and Switzerland can travel to Georgia without a visa and stay there for up to 360 days.

Other EU countries

This is also possible for citizens of Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic, Hungary, the United Kingdom and Cyprus.

For more information, CLICK HERE

Currency and exchange

You can exchange currency in all of Georgia’s larger cities. This is possible both in banks and in special currency exchange offices. Please remember to have your passport or ID card ready when you visit a currency exchange office or bank. You can also take advantage of this service at airports. However, please note that the exchange rate there may be slightly lower.

ATMs and credit cards

ATMs are widely available in most major cities and generally work reliably, so you can count on them to provide convenient access to cash anytime, anywhere. It’s really convenient that you can pay by credit card in almost all large supermarkets, department stores and petrol stations.

Cash

Please note that in remote areas, villages and settlements, it may not be possible to use credit cards. Therefore, we recommend that you always take some cash with you. Please also bear in mind that in such areas, change may be limited. Therefore, we recommend that you do not take large bills with you.

Transport and traffic

Regional transport

The public transport system in Georgia is very well developed. For regional transport, there are so-called Marshrutkas, a kind of minibus, as well as trains. Of course, private taxis and minivans are also available.

Please note that you have to pay for your journey in cash when using Marshrutkas, taxis and minivans, as unfortunately there are no online tickets available. If you are planning a train journey, you can easily buy your ticket online at the following website.

TICKETS FOR THE TRAIN

Local transport

If you are travelling in the city, we can highly recommend the city buses. They offer you a comfortable and environmentally friendly way to get from A to B. At every stop, there is an electronic board that provides you with all the important information. You will find details of the different directions, the respective bus numbers and, of course, the current departure times. The information is of course also available in English.

In Tbilisi, there is a subway that you can easily use with a Metroman card. You can easily buy this practical card at the entrance to the metro and top it up with money. A single ticket costs just 1 lari, no matter how far you want to travel or how long you are on the move.

Private taxis and taxi companies are also available in Georgia. One well-established taxi company is BOLT, where you can order a taxi and pay online using an app.

Clothing

The people of Georgia are very open and freedom-loving, which also applies to clothing. There is no specific dress code in everyday life. However, the situation is a little different in churches. There are certain rules that must be followed.

Rules for women

• Wearing a headscarf is required.
• Women are expected to wear a skirt. Wearing shorts or trousers in churches is strictly prohibited.
• If forgotten, women can use free headscarves and skirts at every church.

Rules for men

• Entering churches with caps is not allowed.
• Men should not wear shorts. If someone is in a church with shorts, free skirts can be used on site.

It is important to respect these guidelines in order to enter the religious sites appropriately and to respect local traditions.

Telephone and communication

Internet

Georgia is a well-connected country and internet access is available almost everywhere, especially in hotels and guest houses, whether in large cities or remote regions.

Telephone

Telephone and mobile services also work very well in Georgia. The largest providers are Magti and Geocell, which cover the entire country. These services can be used not only for making phone calls but also for mobile internet, which is comparatively inexpensive.

SIM card

SIM cards can be easily purchased at airports. However, it is recommended to do so at the branch offices in order to obtain information about tariffs and other conditions. If you are planning a trip through a travel agency, it is advisable to order a SIM card from them to avoid wasting time on the purchase.

Drinking water

Tap water

The tap water in Georgia, especially in the mountainous regions, is generally drinkable and very good. Nevertheless, we recommend that you ask around and find out for yourself. If you are sensitive or have concerns, you are welcome to buy water in supermarkets, which are available even in the smallest villages. Bottled water is available in various sizes, from 0.5 to 10 litres.

In some regions and villages, there are even water pipes or taps directly on the streets that can also be used as drinking water. We recommend that you find out about local conditions before your trip so that you can find your way around easily and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Mountain springs

When hiking in the mountains, it can be a very special experience to come across a spring with crystal-clear, drinkable water flowing from it. Please do not hesitate to ask your guide before using the water.

Food and dishes

The diverse Georgian cuisine will spoil you with delicious salads, hearty meat dishes and exquisite dairy products. A special feature of Georgian cuisine is the use of bread and dough in many dishes. Walnuts and hot pepper are also important ingredients in many dishes that pamper the palate.
This particular flavour may take some getting used to for some guests at first, but we are sure that after a while you will like it as much as we do. We recommend that you pay attention to this to avoid possible digestive problems.

Ambulance service and assistance – 112

The emergency call system in Georgia is well developed and works efficiently. The single emergency number for all emergencies in Georgia is 112. No matter what the situation is in which you need help, you can call this number to get the assistance you need.

For cultural tours

On cultural tours, we explore both mountainous and lowland areas and thus experience different climates and temperatures. In theory, the ideal time for a trip extends from mid-May to the end of October, divided into three sections:

1: from mid-May to the end of June

2: from the beginning of July to the end of August

3: from the beginning of September to the end of October

Each of these periods has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on what experiences you want to have and enjoy. The individual periods are described in detail below:

• Mid-May to late June:

Disadvantages: Some rainy days and high humidity. It can be cold and cloudy in the mountains, and there may still be snow on the hiking trails. The mountains are not yet green.

Advantages: Flowering meadows and beautiful scenery at lower altitudes. Pleasant temperatures without extreme heat. The tourist attractions are less crowded, which makes it easier to see them.

• Beginning of July to end of August:

Disadvantages: Warmer at lower altitudes, the flowers have finished blooming and the meadows are no longer as beautiful. More tourists at the attractions and hiking trails.

Pros: Stable weather with little precipitation. In the mountain regions, the Alpine flowers are in bloom and the temperatures are pleasant for hiking.

• Early September to late October:

Cons: It gets cooler in the mountain regions and the meadows lose their beauty. There are also many tourists during this time.

Advantages: Stable weather with clear air, particularly advantageous for mountain views. The autumn colours begin to appear from mid-September and last until the end of October. In the wine-growing regions, you can experience the traditional grape harvest.

The periods and characteristics mentioned above apply universally to all tours through Georgia, regardless of the total duration of the trip.

For hiking tours

Since most hikes in Georgia take place in mountainous regions, the best time for hiking is from the end of June to the end of September. The two hikes in Svaneti – from Mestia to Ushguli and from Bestcho to Ushguli – can be undertaken from the end of June.

However, hikes such as the ‘Route from Lentechi to Ezerei’, ‘from Kazbegi to Tusheti’ or ‘The Breath of the Caucasus’, where the routes lead over 3000 metres, are only possible from mid-July, as the passes are only free of snow in July.

The decision as to when exactly to go hiking depends on what experiences you are looking for in the mountains. We can divide this period into two sections:

1. from the end of June to mid-August

2. from mid-August to the end of September

Each of these sections has advantages and disadvantages:

• End of June to mid-August

Disadvantages: The weather is not yet stable and hikers may encounter a few rainy days. The air is not 100% clear and the mountains may be hidden in the clouds.

Advantages: The mountain flowers are in full bloom and the mountain meadows are wonderful. This time is particularly suitable for flower lovers and photographers who want to capture beautiful mountain meadows.

• Mid-August to the end of September

Disadvantages: The mountain flowers have finished blooming and the meadows lose their charm. It could be a bit colder in the mountains above 2500 metres.

Advantages: The weather is more stable and the air is clear. This makes it easier to enjoy the view of the mountains and landscapes.

These characteristics apply to hiking tours that take you above 2500 metres. Routes that are a little lower, such as in the Bordschoni-Charaguli National Park, can already be taken from the beginning of June

For bicycle tours

We offer two different types of bicycle tours:

1. Bicycle tours for lower regions

Due to the specific nature of bicycle tours, the air temperature plays a crucial role. Therefore, we recommend the following periods for bicycle tours in lower areas – ‘Cycling in the Caucasus’, ‘Riding on the Colchic Plain’ :

• From mid-May to mid-June:
  • • Disadvantages: Unstable weather with occasional rainy days.
    • Advantages: The landscape and nature are particularly beautiful at this time.

• From mid-August to the end of September:
  • • Disadvantages: The landscape has lost its charm because the flowers have already faded.
    • Advantages: The weather is much more stable, with fewer rainy days.

2. Cycling tours for mountainous regions: Svaneti, Tusheti, Adjara

For cycling in these more challenging areas, the ideal time to travel is from the beginning of July to the end of August. At this time, the passes are 100% free of snow and the weather is stable.

For photo tours

Our 14-day classic photo tour through Georgia takes you through almost all regions of the country. Similar to a round trip through Georgia, the theoretically ideal time frame for this photo tour is from mid-May to mid-October.

The main topics and subjects we focus on during the trip can be categorised into four different areas:

• Landscape
• People
• Everyday life
• Architecture

Due to the specific nature of photo tours, we consider the best travel times for photography in Georgia to be from mid-May to the end of June and from mid-September to mid-October. These two periods differ only slightly. Apart from the landscape, all subjects can be photographed equally during both periods.

During the first period, there are flowering meadows and, in the mountain regions, impressive, dramatic landscapes with fog and clouds.

In autumn, on the other hand, the trip presents bright colours and a charming autumn atmosphere. Otherwise, the photo opportunities are comparable in both periods.

For our special offer, which extends over 20 days and also includes bird photography, we recommend the best travel time from mid-May to mid-June.

For horse riding

Svaneti, Tusheti, Vashlovani National Park and the steppes of David Gareja, as well as Bordzomi-Kharagauli and Lake Lagodekhi national parks are the preferred locations for horse riding tours in Georgia. The ideal time for horse riding tours varies depending on the region.

• For the mountainous regions of Svaneti and Tusheti, the optimal period for horse riding tours is from the beginning of June to the end of September. Regardless of which month or part of this period the tour is undertaken in, the total travel time remains similar.
• The same applies to tours in the Lagodekhi and Bordjomi-Kharagauli national parks, although the season here starts a little earlier, about two weeks earlier.
• For the steppes of David Gareja and the Vashlovani National Park, due to their geographical location and the extreme summer heat, as well as the fact that the horses are already in the mountains, the recommended travel time is from mid-February to mid-April and from mid-October to the end of November.

For mountaineering

The mountaineering season in Georgia starts from mid-June and lasts until the end of October. We can divide this period into two parts:

1. from mid-June to the end of July

2. from the end of July to the end of October

In the first part, the disadvantage is that the weather is somewhat unstable and there may be a few rainy days. However, the advantage is that there is still a lot of snow in the mountains, which means that there is less risk of crevasses.

In the second part, there is the disadvantage that there is less snow and you have to be more careful because of crevasses. In addition, there are more visitors. However, the advantage is stable weather and clear views in the mountains.

These conditions apply to all mountains that can be climbed in Georgia. Here are our offers: Climb Kazbek and Climb Laila.

For Jeep tours

The classic jeep tours in Georgia cover the mountainous regions and passes, which are between 2100 and 3000 metres high. These are only free of snow and passable from mid or late June. Therefore, the season for such tours extends from the end of June to mid-October.

We can divide this period into two parts:

1. from the end of June to mid-August and

2. from mid-August to mid-October

• End of June to mid-August and

Disadvantages – The weather is unstable and the air is humid. You have to expect a few rainy days. Advantages – The mountain meadows are particularly beautiful during this time and there are few tourists on the trails.

• Mid-August to mid-October

Disadvantages – The mountain meadows lose their beauty because the flowers have already faded. There are many tourists on the trails.

Advantages – Stable weather, clear air and beautiful views of the landscape.

A special feature exists in the case of jeep tours in the steppes of David Gareja and in the Vashlovani National Park. These should be undertaken rather in spring, from mid-April to the first half of June, as the landscape and nature are beautiful at this time and the temperatures are very pleasant. The autumn months are also good for this.

For wine tours

In theory, wine tours in Georgia can be organised at any time, as the regions are not mountainous. However, the best time for wine tours is, of course, in autumn, especially in September, when the grape harvest is in full swing in Georgia. And guests have the opportunity to experience the Wen traditions.