Georgia Travel Guide. Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Emergency Numbers
How safe is Georgia?
- Very Safe
- Generally Safe
- Exercise Caution
- High Risk
- Dangerous
Georgia is generally safe for travelers, though petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Political demonstrations occasionally happen in Tbilisi but are usually peaceful.
Advisories (4)
Scams
- Be wary of strangers inviting you to bars or clubs that turn out to be overpriced scams.
- Check taxi fare prices in advance or use ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
Warnings
- Avoid travel to the occupied territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia due to lack of consular access and security risks.
- Exercise caution when driving in rural mountainous areas due to challenging road conditions.
Practical Info
Currency
Georgian Lari (GEL)
Power Plug
C and F
See the sockets
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is standard in restaurants, often included as a service charge.
SIM / Data
Local SIM cards from providers like Magti, Silknet, or Beeline are affordable and widely available at airports and city centers.
Visa
Citizens of many countries can enter Georgia visa-free for up to one year. Always check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for your specific nationality.
Driving Side
Right
How do you get around Georgia?
Public Transport
Tbilisi has an efficient Metro system and extensive bus networks. Marshrutkas (minibuses) connect almost all towns.
Ride-hailing
- Bolt
- Yandex Go
Intercity
Trains connect major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi; for remote regions, private drivers or marshrutkas are the primary options.
Culture and customs
Customs
- It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home.
- Toasts are a central part of Georgian hospitality and should be respected during social gatherings.
- Avoid discussing political tensions regarding Russia or the occupied territories.
Dress Code
Casual and modern in cities, but modest dress is required when visiting Orthodox churches (women should cover their heads and shoulders, men should wear long pants).
Religious Etiquette
Georgian Orthodox Christianity is deeply integrated into daily life; always maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside churches.
Common Phrases
- GamarjobaHello
- MadlobaThank you
- Ki / AraYes / No
Highlights
Sports & Recreation
Rugby and Football
Rugby is immensely popular and a source of national pride. Hiking and mountaineering in the Caucasus are world-class activities.
National Festivals
- May 26
Independence Day
Celebrates the declaration of the First Republic of Georgia with military parades and concerts.
- October (variable)
Tbilisoba
A vibrant festival celebrating the history and culture of the capital city with food, wine, and music.
Cities in Georgia
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