Practical Information for Visitors to Georgia
Whether you’re visiting Georgia for medical care, tourism, or both, having the right information at your fingertips makes your stay safer, smoother, and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know while you’re here.
From navigating public transportation to accessing emergency services or finding a local SIM card, knowing a few essentials in advance can save you time and stress. Georgia is generally very visitor-friendly, with hospitable locals, walkable cities, and clear infrastructure.
Whether you’re planning a short city stay or traveling across regions, this guide covers the practical details that will help you feel prepared and welcomed from the moment you arrive.
Emergency Services
- Emergency number (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 112 (nationwide, free of charge, 24/7)
- Closest embassy or consulate: Check Georgia MFA website for a list of foreign missions in Georgia
- Medical emergency? Contact your clinic or hotel for assistance while also dialing 112
Public Transportation
Tbilisi and other cities have a reliable and affordable public transportation system:
- Metro: Two main lines, fast and easy to use; operates from 6:00 AM to midnight
- Bus & Minibus (marshrutka): Covers most areas; cost: ~1 GEL
- Travel card: Use a “Metromoney” card for all public transport; available at metro stations
For intercity travel, minibuses and trains connect Tbilisi to major cities like Batumi, Kutaisi, and Telavi.
Taxi & Ride Apps
- Bolt and Yandex Go are widely used and safe taxi apps in Georgia
- Fares are low: A typical 10–15 min ride in Tbilisi costs 5–10 GEL
- Avoid flagging taxis from the street without agreeing on a price in advance
Tourist Info & Help Centers
Official tourist information centers are available in:
- Tbilisi International Airport
- Liberty Square (Tbilisi city center)
- Batumi Boulevard
Staff speak English and provide maps, brochures, SIM cards, and general assistance.
Language & Communication
- The official language is Georgian (Kartuli), with its own unique script
- English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, clinics, and among younger people
- Russian is also widely understood, especially among older generations
- Learning a few local phrases like “gamarjoba” (hello) or “madloba” (thank you) is appreciated by locals
Other Useful Tips
- Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL). Cash and cards are both accepted widely.
- SIM cards: Magti, Geocell, and Beeline offer affordable prepaid plans at airports and city kiosks
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most cities
- Wi-Fi: Widely available in cafes, hotels, and even public buses in Tbilisi
- Electrical plugs: Type C and F (European standard), 220V
- Time zone: Georgia Standard Time (GMT+4), no daylight saving
