What you need to know before traveling to Georgia in 2026
Georgia is a country you want to return to again and again. Its unique combination of nature, hospitality, ancient culture, and delicious cuisine makes it one of the most attractive destinations for travelers. If you are planning a trip to Georgia in 2025, this material will help you prepare, avoid unexpected situations, and get the most out of your experience.
Visa and entry to Georgia
For citizens of most countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Belarus, EU countries, and many others, a visa is not required. You can stay in Georgia for up to one year without a visa. Entry is granted with a foreign passport. Important: an internal passport (e.g., Russian) is not sufficient.
As of 2026, no significant changes in visa policy are planned; however, it is recommended to check for updated information on the official website of the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or at a consulate before your trip.
As of 2026, no significant changes in visa policy are planned; however, it is recommended to check for updated information on the official website of the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or at a consulate before your trip.
Insurance — Mandatory
Obtaining medical insurance before traveling to Georgia is mandatory. Although it may not be requested at the border, all medical care for foreigners is paid, and even a simple doctor's visit can cost 50–100 GEL, while serious treatment is significantly more expensive.
It is especially important that the insurance covers active recreation and mountain regions if you plan trips to Kazbegi, Svaneti, or hiking. The cost of insurance is usually low, but it provides peace of mind and protection throughout the trip.
Currency, exchange, and payment
The national currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). The exchange rate against the dollar and euro varies, but approximately 1 Lari = 0.35 USD. It is recommended to have both cash and bank cards with you. In Tbilisi, Batumi, and other major cities, cards are accepted in most cafes, restaurants, and shops. However, in the regions and especially in the mountains, only cash payments are often possible.
It is better to exchange currency at verified exchange offices in the city center rather than at the airport (where the rate may be less favorable).
It is better to exchange currency at verified exchange offices in the city center rather than at the airport (where the rate may be less favorable).
Mobile communication and internet
After arrival, you can purchase a local SIM card. The most popular mobile operators are: MagtiCom, Geocell, Beeline. They offer convenient tourist packages with internet, calls, and SMS. Prices range from 20 to 40 Lari for 10–20 GB of mobile internet.
4G coverage is stable in all cities and tourist zones. In remote areas (e.g., Tusheti or Khevsureti), the signal may be unstable, but this is rare.
4G coverage is stable in all cities and tourist zones. In remote areas (e.g., Tusheti or Khevsureti), the signal may be unstable, but this is rare.
Transport: how to get around
Tbilisi has a metro, buses, and minibuses (marshrutkas). The fare starts from 1 Lari. Taxi apps are also available, including Yandex Go, Bolt, and Maxim.
Intercity trips are best made either by rented car or on tourist minibuses and marshrutkas. A convenient option is to book an individual transfer with a driver-guide, especially if you want to explore regions where public transport does not go.
International and local services are suitable for car rentals. You will need an international driver's license and a bank card.
Intercity trips are best made either by rented car or on tourist minibuses and marshrutkas. A convenient option is to book an individual transfer with a driver-guide, especially if you want to explore regions where public transport does not go.
International and local services are suitable for car rentals. You will need an international driver's license and a bank card.
Accommodation: hotels, guesthouses, apartments
Georgia offers a huge variety of accommodation — from elite hotels in the center of Tbilisi to cozy village guesthouses in Svaneti.
We recommend booking in advance, especially during the tourist season (from May to September). Booking.com, Airbnb, and local aggregators will help you find a suitable option.
If you want to experience true Georgian hospitality, pay attention to family guesthouses — they will feed you, give you something to drink, and sometimes even give you a tour.
We recommend booking in advance, especially during the tourist season (from May to September). Booking.com, Airbnb, and local aggregators will help you find a suitable option.
If you want to experience true Georgian hospitality, pay attention to family guesthouses — they will feed you, give you something to drink, and sometimes even give you a tour.
What to pack
- Comfortable shoes — for walking on paved streets and trekking.
- A light jacket — it can be cool in the mountains even in summer.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Power bank — useful on the road.
- Swimsuit (if you plan a trip to the sea, thermal springs, or a pool).
Weather by season
Spring (March – May): blooming trees, mild temperatures, an ideal time for traveling.
Summer (June – August): heat in the cities, cool in the mountains. Ideal time for sea holidays and trekking routes.
Autumn (September – November): grape season and harvest. Warm and dry weather until November.
Winter (December – February): mild winter in Tbilisi and Batumi, ski season in Gudauri and Bakuriani.
Summer (June – August): heat in the cities, cool in the mountains. Ideal time for sea holidays and trekking routes.
Autumn (September – November): grape season and harvest. Warm and dry weather until November.
Winter (December – February): mild winter in Tbilisi and Batumi, ski season in Gudauri and Bakuriani.
What food to try
Georgian cuisine is a separate adventure. Among the must-try dishes:
- Khachapuri (Imeretian, Megrelian, Adjarian).
- Khinkali (with meat, cheese, or potatoes).
- Lobio with mchadi (beans and corn tortilla).
- Pkhali (vegetable and walnut appetizer).
- Homemade wine and chacha.
Safety and culture of communication
Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the region. Tourists are loved and respected here. The crime rate is extremely low, especially towards foreigners.
Georgians are very open and hospitable. Even if you don't speak Georgian, you will always be helped — in Russian or English.
Georgians are very open and hospitable. Even if you don't speak Georgian, you will always be helped — in Russian or English.
Additional tips
- It is better not to drink tap water in the regions, especially in old houses.
- Currency exchange at the airport is the most disadvantageous.
- Do not refuse an offer of "a little bit of wine" — it's part of the culture.
- The host is always responsible for the toast, and he will put his whole soul into it.
If you want to not just visit the country, but to feel it from the inside, peek into a village, chat with locals, and eat at a home table — join our author tours. We will show you Georgia from its most soulful side.