What is the cost of a vacation to Georgia? - 2026 Guide

Is Georgia expensive for tourists?

Georgia ranks among the most affordable destinations globally, sitting in the top 10% for value. A vacation here costs significantly less than in Western Europe or North America. Trust me, your wallet will thank you. Even with recent global inflation, travelers still find cheap food, beds, and reasonable prices for getting around.

Your costs depend on when you go. Rates increase during the peak summer months, while off-season travel offers reduced prices for flights and lodging. Costs also vary by location; major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi generally charge higher prices than rural areas. Visiting during shoulder seasons often gives you the best bang for your buck while allowing you to explore the country comfortably.

What is the average daily budget for a trip to Georgia?

Your total spend depends on your chosen travel style. You'll pay in Georgian Lari (GEL), so you'll need to keep an eye on exchange rates.

How much does a budget backpacker trip cost?

Shoestring travelers typically spend between $14 and $50 USD daily. To stay in this range, you'll need to stick to dorms and cook some of your own meals. Hostels in Tbilisi and other regions offer dorm beds starting at approximately $7 per night, keeping accommodation costs way lower than hotels.

Dining expenses drop when you choose local staples like khinkali and khachapuri over tourist restaurants. You'll also save on transport when using the marshrutka network for intercity travel instead of private taxis. Stick to free activities like hiking and self-guided walking tours.

What is the cost for mid-range and luxury travel?

Mid-range travelers typically spend between $50 and $125 daily. This budget covers private rooms in 3-star hotels and comfortable dining in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi. For getting around, you might choose car rentals or hiring drivers through GoTrip.

Luxury travelers spending over $120 per day can expect a much higher level of comfort. High-end costs cover stays at exclusive boutique hotels and international resorts. At this price point, you unlock perks like private transfers and specialized activities, such as private wine tours.

What currency is used in Georgia?

The official currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). Shops and restaurants in major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi only accept payment in Lari rather than foreign cash.

While travelers often plan budgets in USD or EUR, you'll be spending GEL. You should figure out your budget based on current exchange rates when converting funds.

How much does accommodation cost in Georgia?

Lodging prices vary drastically by region and type. Costs depend heavily on location, with major hubs like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi generally costing more than rural areas. Peak season brings higher rates than off-season travel. However, shoulder seasons provide the best value.

What are the rates for hostels and guesthouses?

Hostels in Tbilisi and other urban centers typically charge between $7 and $15 per night for a dormitory bed. These accommodations are great places to meet people and exchange tips with other backpackers. Family-run guesthouses generally range from $15 to $30 per night for a private room. This option often features home-cooked meals, saving you money.

Kutaisi is famous for its welcoming guesthouses, where it's easy to chat and connect with local host families. Choosing these options gives you a glimpse into local life.

How much do boutique hotels and apartments cost?

Private apartments in major cities like Tbilisi and Batumi typically start at $50 per night. These rentals offer more space and privacy than standard hotel rooms, which is perfect for mid-range budgets.

Boutique hotels cost significantly more, offering stylish decor and great service. If you're after luxury, expect to pay over $150 per night for these exclusive properties. Prices fluctuate based on demand, rising noticeably during the peak season. You’ll need at least $120 a day to enjoy this kind of luxury.

How can an eSIM save you money on mobile data in Georgia?

Avoiding international roaming fees saves money. eSIMs for Georgia from Amigo offer the cheapest way to stay connected without your home carrier's roaming charges. Plans start from $9 for 5 GB valid for 14 days.

Larger Amigo options include 10 GB for 30 days at $14 or 20 GB for 30 days at $23, keeping costs minimal. Reliable internet from these eSIMs is essential for using the Bolt app for transportation and navigation tools.

What are the costs for food and dining?

Georgian cuisine is a highlight and is still very cheap compared to Western standards. A moderate budget allows for a mix of casual dining and restaurant experiences in hubs like Tbilisi and Batumi. You can reduce expenses further by sticking to local staples.

How much is a meal in a traditional Georgian restaurant?

A substantial dinner for two in a mid-range venue generally falls between 60 and 80 Georgian Lari (GEL)—roughly $22 to $30. This amount typically gets you a table full of food, often including:

• Salads
• Hot appetizers
• Main courses
• A carafe of house wine

Prices are noticeably higher in tourist centers such as Tbilisi and Batumi, where prime locations are more expensive. On the other hand, dining in rural areas or smaller towns can lower costs, with bills often dropping below 50 GEL for a similar spread. Portions are generous, often reducing the need for three full meals a day.

What do street foods like khinkali and khachapuri cost?

Iconic staples like khinkali are incredibly affordable, typically costing between 1.20 and 2.50 Georgian Lari (GEL) per dumpling. A minimum order often applies, but a filling meal of five to ten dumplings remains under 20 GEL. Just remember the golden rule: eat them with your hands, not a fork.

Khachapuri, the famous cheese bread, generally ranges from 10 to 15 GEL for a standard portion. Fill up on these classics to save cash and taste the real Georgia.

Is alcohol and wine expensive in Georgia?

Alcohol is generally affordable. Since Georgia is the "cradle of wine," domestic bottles are much cheaper than imports. A decent bottle of wine in a supermarket typically costs between 10 and 25 Georgian Lari (GEL), while a glass in a restaurant ranges from 5 to 12 GEL.

Nightlife in major cities like Tbilisi and Batumi is fun but won't break the bank; local draft beer costs approximately 6 to 10 GEL in bars. You can expect to spend around $15 for alcoholic beverages and evening entertainment. While casual drinking is inexpensive, premium experiences such as private wine tours will increase this budget. Visitors often pair their wine tastings with churchkhela, a traditional candle-shaped candy widely available in wine regions.

What are the transportation costs for getting around?

Public transportation is exceptionally cheap. Moving between sights in Tbilisi and Batumi costs almost nothing. A standard fare for the metro or bus costs just 1 GEL. Visitors pay for these rides using the convenient MetroMoney card.

Beyond city limits, affordable options like marshrutka vans and intercity trains connect regions efficiently. So, local transportation costs won't eat up your budget.

How much do marshrutkas and intercity trains cost?

Marshrutkas are the cheapest way for long-distance travel, with fares generally ranging from 5 to 40 Georgian Lari (GEL). Popular routes, such as the drive from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, typically cost around 15 GEL, while reaching Kutaisi costs about 20 GEL.

You'll have to sacrifice personal space for the low price, as these vans get crowded. It’s a chaotic experience, but it’s also a rite of passage for visitors. Intercity trains offer a more comfortable alternative; tickets for the modern Stadler train to the coast cost between 35 and 75 GEL depending on the class. Choosing the right mix of rail and road transport helps you save money.

Are taxis and apps like Bolt affordable?

Apps like Bolt are the standard for getting around Tbilisi and Batumi, offering fixed fares of approximately 4 to 10 Georgian Lari (GEL) that protect you from the inflated "foreigner tax" common with street taxis.

Fares are fixed upfront, so you don't have to haggle. You'll need data to book them, such as that from Magti.

What is the cost of renting a car or using GoTrip?

Self-driving is a popular choice for exploring remote areas, with car rentals typically starting at $35 to $50 per day. Gas isn't included. Travelers heading to mountainous regions like Kazbegi often need 4x4 vehicles, which can increase the price.

Another option is GoTrip if you want a private driver without the stress of navigating yourself. This service provides fixed pricing. It often proves cheaper than renting when factoring in gas and insurance. Prices are transparent and settled in Georgian Lari (GEL), allowing visitors to stop at multiple sightseeing locations without extra fees. Pick the one that fits how you like to travel.

What do sightseeing and activities cost?

Sightseeing and entertainment are budget-friendly. You should budget about $14 per person daily. This covers various fees, including tickets for museums, historical landmarks, and guided experiences.

Many iconic attractions in Tbilisi and Batumi, such as ancient churches and botanical gardens, are free or very cheap. Keep a little cash handy for paid attractions while enjoying the free sights.

How much are entrance fees for museums and historical sites?

Most museums in Tbilisi and historical complexes charge modest fees, usually ranging from 5 to 15 Georgian Lari (GEL). However, specific landmarks like the ancient cave monastery of Vardzia cost about 15 GEL.

Kutaisi is the best base for exploring surrounding natural monuments, where prices are slightly higher. Entrance to popular sites such as Prometheus Cave or Martvili Canyon near Kutaisi typically costs between 20 and 30 GEL. These are a bit pricier, but still cheap compared to Europe.

What is the price of a sulfur bath experience in Tbilisi?

Visiting the historic sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district is a must-do Tbilisi experience. Prices depend on how fancy you want to get. Public pools are the most affordable option, typically costing between 10 and 15 Georgian Lari (GEL) per person. Travelers seeking a more exclusive style can rent private rooms, which generally range from 50 to over 150 GEL per hour depending on quality.

Additional services like the traditional exfoliating scrub, known as kisa, usually add 10 to 20 GEL to the total bill. I highly recommend splashing out on this; you’ll feel brand new afterwards. Booking private rooms as a group means you can split the cost.

How much do wine tours in Kakheti cost?

Excursions to the Kakheti region range from $35 for basic group day trips to over $250 for longer trips. A standard organized tour to Sighnaghi typically costs between $35 and $120 per person. These prices generally include transportation, guide services, and food and wine.

If you want more freedom, you can hire drivers through GoTrip, which can be more cost-effective for small groups. Alternatively, independent visitors can take a marshrutka for approximately 15 GEL and pay individual fees at wineries, which usually charge 20 to 50 GEL for tastings. Premium private tours cost more but offer exclusive access to boutique cellars.

How should you manage payments and tipping?

You'll need a mix of cash and card to get by in Georgia. You can only pay in Georgian Lari (GEL), and visitors should always keep small denominations handy. Don't be afraid to haggle in local markets.

Can you pay by card everywhere in Georgia?

Credit cards are reliable within Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi at supermarkets, hotels, and modern restaurants.

However, cash is king in remote villages, family-run guesthouses, and for marshrutka fares. You should withdraw GEL in cities, as terminals are scarce in high-altitude regions. If you only have a card, you might get stuck outside main tourist hubs. I learned this lesson the hard way, so stock up on cash before leaving the city.

How much should you tip in restaurants and cafes?

Restaurants usually handle tipping by adding a service charge to the bill, typically ranging from 10% to 18%. Unlike in many Western countries, leaving a large additional tip is not mandatory, though rounding up the total or leaving loose coins is appreciated. Check the receipt first to make sure you don't accidentally double-tip.

Sources

• https://ttc.com.ge/en/fares
• https://tre.ge/en