Georgia

Tbilisi rewards unhurried exploration. Start in the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, where carved wooden balconies overlook courtyards, then walk uphill to Narikala Fortress for broad views over the Mtkvari River. A ride on the Rike–Narikala cable car costs about 2.5 GEL one way, while the city’s metro and buses cost 1 GEL per ride and allow transfers for 90 minutes when paid with a suitable card or transit card. After sightseeing, soak in the sulfur baths of Abanotubani; private rooms are more comfortable for groups, and advance booking is wise during busy weekends. Continue across the Bridge of Peace toward Rike Park, or browse Dry Bridge Market for Soviet-era objects, paintings, and handmade souvenirs. Tbilisi’s hills and uneven pavements make comfortable shoes essential. Keep a little mobile data available for maps and ride-hailing, especially after dark or when returning from hillside neighborhoods. Buying and activating a Hello eSIM before landing keeps directions, translation apps, and reservations accessible without roaming charges.

Georgian food is generous, social, and wonderfully varied. Order khinkali, pleated soup dumplings traditionally eaten by hand, and khachapuri, especially the boat-shaped Adjarian version topped with egg and butter. Vegetarian travellers should look for lobio (seasoned beans), pkhali (vegetable and walnut pâté), grilled eggplant with walnut paste, and fresh salads with herbs. In western Georgia, try imeruli khachapuri and regional dishes such as elardji, while Kakheti is known for hearty meals and vineyard hospitality. Georgian dining often arrives family-style, so ask whether portions are large before ordering several mains. A supra, or traditional feast, may include many toasts led by a tamada; enjoy the ritual, but pace yourself with wine and chacha. Markets in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi are excellent for churchkhela, spices, fruit, and local cheese. Record restaurant visits and market purchases in Hello’s budget tracking feature using GEL, and use expense splitting to settle shared meals without turning the end of dinner into a calculation.

Georgia’s compact size hides dramatically different landscapes. Base yourself in Stepantsminda for views of Mount Kazbek and the Gergeti Trinity Church, but allow extra time on the Georgian Military Highway: weather and traffic can change plans quickly. Sighnaghi makes a relaxed Kakheti stop, with hilltop views and nearby wineries, while Borjomi combines forest walks with mineral-water springs. For the coast, take a train or coach to Batumi, where the Black Sea promenade, botanical garden, and subtropical atmosphere contrast sharply with eastern Georgia. Intercity marshrutkas are inexpensive and reach places trains do not, but departure times can be informal and luggage space limited. Trains are a more comfortable choice on major routes, particularly between Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi; reserve ahead in summer and around holidays. Mountain excursions benefit from a local driver or organized day trip, since road conditions and navigation can be challenging. Use Hello’s trip planning tools to group destinations by region rather than cramming the entire country into one hurried itinerary.

Georgia uses the Georgian lari (GEL). Cards work widely in Tbilisi, Batumi, and established hotels, cafés, and restaurants, but cash remains useful for village guesthouses, markets, marshrutkas, and small mountain stops. Carry modest lari notes and check the amount before handing over cash; exchange rates and ATM fees can vary. Ask to be charged in GEL rather than accepting a card terminal’s conversion, and keep receipts when splitting group expenses. Tipping is not always mandatory, though rounding up or leaving around 10% for attentive restaurant service is appreciated. Georgian is the official language, while English is common among younger people and in tourist areas; learning “madloba” (thank you) goes a long way. Pack layers: Tbilisi can be hot, mountain evenings cool, and Batumi humid. For religious sites, dress modestly and carry a scarf if needed. Download offline maps, save accommodation details, and activate Hello eSIM before departure so arrival-day transport, translation, and emergency communication work immediately.