Getting around Georgia
Georgia is compact, so domestic travel by air plays a relatively small role compared with road transport.
The main domestic air route links Tbilisi with the Black Sea resort city of Batumi. Flights are short, typically under an hour, and can be a convenient option during peak summer months when road travel may be slower due to traffic or weather conditions. Services on this route are limited, so schedules should be checked in advance.
Travelling by road is the most practical and flexible way to explore Georgia. The country's compact size means that many key destinations can be reached within a few hours, and road travel allows access to mountain regions, wine villages, and remote monasteries that are not served by rail. Major routes link Tbilisi with Kutaisi, Batumi, Telavi, and other regional centres, making road transport central to most itineraries.
Some routes are attractions in their own right. The Georgian Military Highway runs north from Tbilisi into the Greater Caucasus, offering dramatic mountain scenery, historic fortresses, and sweeping viewpoints along one of the country's most celebrated drives. In the east, roads through Kakheti form the backbone of Georgia's wine routes, passing vineyards, traditional wineries, and historic towns set against the Alazani Valley.
Fuel stations are widely available along main highways and in towns, though they become less frequent in remote mountain areas. Fuel prices are generally lower than in much of Europe. Road signs are mostly in Georgian and English, and navigation apps work well on major routes, though coverage can be unreliable in high mountain regions.
Road quality in Georgia varies considerably. Main highways and routes linking major cities are generally paved and in reasonable condition, with ongoing upgrades improving travel times on key corridors. Traffic congestion can occur in and around Tbilisi, particularly during rush hours.
Secondary and rural roads may be narrow or poorly maintained, especially in mountainous regions. In winter, snow, ice, and landslides can affect mountain roads, while heavy rain may cause localised flooding. Caution is advised when driving outside urban areas, particularly after dark.
Georgia's road network includes international and national highways, secondary regional roads, and local access roads. International highways connect the capital with neighbouring countries and major cities, while secondary roads link towns and rural areas. Local roads in mountainous regions are often the least developed and may require high-clearance vehicles.
Car hire is widely available in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, and at international airports. Both local and international rental companies operate, offering a range of vehicles. For mountain travel or rural exploration, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended.
Self-drive travel offers great flexibility, but visitors should be confident drivers and familiar with local road conditions. Hiring a car with a driver is also common and can be a good alternative for navigating mountain roads or language barriers.
Taxis are widely available in cities, and ride-hailing apps such as Bolt and Yandex Go are commonly used. App-based services are generally the easiest and most transparent option, with fares agreed in advance. Street taxis may not use meters, so prices should be negotiated beforehand.
Cycling is possible in Georgia, but is best suited to experienced riders. Mountain terrain, variable road conditions, and assertive driving styles can make cycling challenging. Dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited, particularly outside cities. Recreational cycling is more enjoyable in rural wine regions or quieter valleys, provided routes are carefully planned.
Long-distance coaches and minibuses are a popular and affordable way to travel between cities and towns. Services operate frequently on major routes, including Tbilisi–Kutaisi, Tbilisi–Batumi, and Tbilisi–Telavi. Vehicles range from large coaches to smaller marshrutka minibuses, with varying levels of comfort.
While inexpensive and widely used, marshrutkas can be crowded and have limited luggage space. They are generally reliable but may depart only when full. Coaches offer more comfort on longer journeys and are often preferred by visitors.
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas, 80–90 km/h (50–56 mph) on rural roads, and up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on motorways. Speed cameras are common.
Drink-driving laws are strict, with a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol. Seat belts are mandatory, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.
Georgia does not have a single nationwide roadside assistance organisation comparable to those in some European countries. Assistance is usually provided through car hire companies, private garages, or local contacts. In cities and along major routes, help is generally available, but delays can occur in remote areas. Carrying emergency supplies and a charged mobile phone is advisable.
Foreign drivers must carry a valid driving licence from their home country. An International Driving Permit is recommended, particularly if the licence is not in English or uses a non-Latin script. Drivers should also carry their passport, vehicle rental agreement, and insurance documents.
Tbilisi has an efficient metro network that covers key parts of the city, complemented by buses and marshrutkas. Walking is feasible in central areas, though hills and uneven pavements can be challenging.
In cities such as Kutaisi and Batumi, urban travel is simpler and more relaxed than in the capital. Neither city has a metro system, and most journeys are made by buses, minibuses, and taxis. City centres are compact, making walking a practical option for many visitors, although pavements can be uneven in places. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are inexpensive and widely used, providing a convenient way to get around, particularly in the evenings or when travelling to outlying neighbourhoods.
Rail travel in Georgia is limited but useful on certain routes. The main rail corridor connects Tbilisi with Kutaisi and Batumi, offering a comfortable alternative to road travel. Trains are generally reliable and affordable, though services are less frequent than buses and do not reach many rural or mountainous areas.
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