Georgia is one of the most underrated and exciting destinations for first-time travelers. Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia offers ancient history, dramatic Caucasus mountains, charming old towns, wine culture older than civilization itself, vibrant nightlife, and warm hospitality. It is affordable, safe, and surprisingly easy to explore, making it an excellent choice for tourists visiting the region for the first time.
Preparations Before Visiting Georgia
Before traveling to Georgia, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Georgia allows visa-free entry for citizens of many countries for extended periods, but it is still wise to check the latest entry rules before departure. Travel insurance is not always mandatory but is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to visit mountain regions.
The official currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, but cash is essential in rural areas and mountain villages. Georgia experiences hot summers and cold winters, so pack according to the season. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to cobbled streets and uneven terrain. Download apps like Google Maps, Bolt, Yandex Taxi, and offline translation tools before arrival. If you plan to drive, an International Driving Permit Georgia is recommended, although many travelers drive with their national license.
First Things to Do After Arriving in Georgia
Most international travelers arrive at Tbilisi International Airport, though Batumi is another major entry point. After landing, the first priority is to get a local SIM card or eSIM from providers like Magti, Geocell, or Beeline, all of which offer affordable data plans with good nationwide coverage. Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available at the airport, and ATMs usually provide fair exchange rates.
Transportation from the airport is simple, with taxis and ride-hailing apps being the most convenient option. Once you check into your hotel, take a relaxed walk through your neighborhood to get familiar with local cafés, bakeries, and currency exchange offices. Your first Georgian meal—khachapuri or khinkali—is the perfect introduction to the country.
Best Budget and Mid-Range Hotels for First-Time Visitors
For first-time visitors, staying centrally makes sightseeing much easier. In Tbilisi, areas such as Old Town, Sololaki, Avlabari, and Rustaveli Avenue are ideal. Budget travelers can find excellent options like Fabrika Hostel, Ibis Budget Tbilisi Center, or Hotel Corner Inn, which offer cleanliness, comfort, and great locations.
Mid-range travelers will enjoy hotels like Hotel Kopala, Shota Rustaveli Boutique Hotel, or Citadel Narikala Hotel, many of which offer balconies and views over the old city. In Batumi, budget hotels and modern apartments near the seaside boulevard provide excellent value for money.
Where to Start Your Journey in Georgia
Tbilisi is the best starting point for a first-time visit. Spend at least two to three days exploring its old town, sulfur baths, cable cars, and hilltop viewpoints. Tbilisi also works as the country’s main transport hub, making it easy to travel onward by train, bus, or rental car.
From Tbilisi, many travelers head north to the mountains or west to the Black Sea coast. Georgia’s compact size allows you to experience cities, mountains, and beaches in a single trip without rushing.
Best Places to Visit in Georgia as a Tourist
Tbilisi offers a mix of old and new, from Narikala Fortress and Abanotubani sulfur baths to modern cafés and art spaces. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) is one of Georgia’s most famous mountain destinations, known for the Gergeti Trinity Church set against snow-capped peaks.
Kakheti is the heart of Georgia’s wine culture, with scenic vineyards and traditional wineries. Batumi offers a completely different vibe with beaches, modern architecture, and nightlife. Nature lovers should also explore Svaneti, Uplistsikhe cave city, and Borjomi National Park.
Hiring a Car or Bike in Georgia
Renting a car in Georgia is popular and relatively affordable, especially for exploring mountain regions. Rental agencies operate in Tbilisi and Batumi, and you will need your passport, driving license, and often an International Driving Permit. Georgia drives on the right side, and while highways are improving, rural roads can be narrow and uneven.
Motorbikes are less common than cars but can be rented in Tbilisi and Batumi. Scooters are practical for short distances in cities, but for mountain travel, a car or 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended.
Best Mountain Roads and Scenic Passes
Georgia is famous for its breathtaking mountain roads. The Georgian Military Highway from Tbilisi to Kazbegi is one of the most scenic drives in the Caucasus, passing through dramatic gorges, alpine valleys, and historic fortresses.
Another spectacular route is the drive to Ushguli in Svaneti, one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe. The road offers unforgettable views but requires careful driving and is best attempted in good weather. The Goderdzi Pass, connecting Batumi with Akhaltsikhe, is another stunning mountain route, especially in summer.
Best Beaches for Sunset and Sunrise
Georgia’s Black Sea coast offers relaxing beach experiences rather than tropical scenery. Batumi Boulevard is perfect for sunsets, with the sun dipping into the sea behind modern city lights. Nearby beaches like Gonio and Kvariati are quieter and ideal for peaceful evenings.
For sunrise, Batumi’s eastern-facing sections and beaches near Chakvi offer calm early mornings with soft light over the water. While Georgia is better known for mountains than beaches, the coastal atmosphere is relaxed and enjoyable.
Nightlife and Club Scene in Georgia
Georgia has one of the most exciting nightlife scenes in Eastern Europe. Tbilisi is famous for its underground techno and electronic music culture, with world-renowned clubs like Bassiani and Khidi attracting international DJs and partygoers.
Beyond clubs, Tbilisi offers wine bars, live music venues, and rooftop lounges with city views. Batumi’s nightlife is more mainstream, featuring beach clubs, casinos, and open-air bars along the seaside. Nightlife in Georgia is energetic, social, and welcoming to tourists.
Final Tips for First-Time Travelers to Georgia
Georgia is an excellent destination for first-time visitors looking for something unique yet accessible. English is increasingly spoken in tourist areas, locals are extremely hospitable, and food and wine are highlights of the experience. Respect local traditions, especially in villages and religious sites, and always plan mountain travel around weather conditions. With the right preparation, Georgia delivers an unforgettable blend of culture, adventure, scenic drives, and vibrant nightlife that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.
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