Georgia is a wonderful place to explore, but there are a few things we wish every visitor knew before arriving. So we've put together some of our favorite little tips to help you feel more at home and enjoy your trip. Hope you find them useful!
Local tip №1: Download a taxi app before arriving in Georgia
When you arrive at Tbilisi Airport, you might be approached by taxi drivers offering to take you to your hotel. We'd suggest checking an app like Bolt first. You can connect to the airport's free Wi-Fi to book your ride, even if you don't have a local SIM card yet. You can also buy a local SIM card at the airport.
Local tip №2: Download offline maps before heading into the mountains
Georgia has so many beautiful hiking spots, and apps like Komoot or Organic Maps can help you discover them. Just remember to download your maps in advance, as mobile coverage isn't always reliable in remote areas.
Local tip №3: Carry some cash when traveling outside Tbilisi
Cards are widely accepted in Georgia, even on public transport in Tbilisi. However, smaller shops, roadside stops, and local businesses in places like Kazbegi or Kakheti might only accept cash. Having a few Georgian lari with you is always a good idea.
Local tip №4: Learn a few Georgian words
You don't need to speak Georgian to enjoy your trip, but knowing a few words can make your experience even nicer. Locals often appreciate the effort, too! Start with gamarjoba (hello), madloba (thank you), and gaumarjos (cheers!) — that last one will definitely come in handy if you're invited to a Georgian feast!
Local tip №5: Take a little extra care on the roads
Whether you're driving or simply crossing the street, it's worth staying alert. Traffic in Georgia can sometimes be unpredictable, so take your time and look both ways, even at pedestrian crossings. And if you're planning to drive in the mountains, be especially careful on winding roads.
Local tip №6: Say hello to Georgia's four-legged locals 🐾
You'll probably meet quite a few street dogs and cats while exploring Georgia. Many are friendly and used to being around people, so there's no need to worry every time you see one.
Just give them some space and avoid touching unfamiliar animals. If you'd like to help, offering fresh water — especially on hot summer days — is a lovely gesture. You can also bring some pet food when traveling outside the big cities, where animals may have fewer people looking out for them.
Local tip №7: You can explore a lot of Georgia while staying in Tbilisi
One of the nice things about staying in Tbilisi is that you don't have to pack and unpack your suitcase every single day. There are plenty of lovely places you can visit on a day trip and still return to your hotel in the evening:
- Mtskheta & Jvari
- Kakheti (Sighnaghi, wineries, and the Alazani Valley)
- Kazbegi
- Gori & Uplistsikhe
- Borjomi
- David Gareja or Dashbashi Canyon
Vardzia and Rabati Castle are also possible as a long day trip, although we'd recommend staying overnight if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
For places like Kutaisi, Racha, Svaneti, Batumi, or Tusheti, it's worth spending at least a couple of days in the region. That way, you'll have more time to explore instead of spending most of your trip on the road.
Local tip №8: Consider staying in Tbilisi's Old Town
If you're visiting Tbilisi for the first time, the Old Town is a lovely place to stay. You'll find colorful balconies, little cafés, charming streets, and plenty of places to explore on foot. Just keep in mind that some streets can get a little noisy in the evenings, and there are quite a few hills and cobblestone paths.
Local tip №9: Compare exchange rates before changing money
A little tip that might save you some money: banks don't always have the best exchange rates. Independent exchange offices and licensed microfinance organizations sometimes offer better rates, so it's worth comparing a couple of places before exchanging your money. And don't forget to check whether there's a commission!
Local tip №10: Better Call Geohospitality! 😉
If planning routes, organizing day trips, or navigating mountain roads doesn't sound like your idea of a relaxing holiday, we'd be happy to help. Leave us a message →
