Getting around Georgia
Georgia is small, scenic and easy to cross — but its transport mixes Soviet-era systems with modern apps. Here is how to move between Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and the mountains without overpaying.
Tbilisi metro and city transport
The Tbilisi Metro has two lines and is the fastest way across the capital. Buy a green Metromoney card (2 GEL deposit) at any station and top it up; a single ride is around 1 GEL and covers metro, city buses and the cable car to Narikala. Buses are modern and numbered; the TTC or Google Maps app shows live arrivals.
Marshrutkas (minibuses)
The marshrutka is Georgia's workhorse — shared minibuses that leave when full from stations like Didube (west/north routes), Ortachala and Samgori. They are cheap (Tbilisi to Kazbegi about 15 GEL, to Kutaisi 20-25 GEL) but cramped and fast-driven. Tell the driver your stop; pay in cash on arrival.
Intercity trains
Georgian Railway runs comfortable, cheap trains. The modern Stadler double-decker links Tbilisi to Batumi (about 5 hours, 25-30 GEL) and is far calmer than a marshrutka. There are also trains to Kutaisi, Zugdidi (for Svaneti) and Poti. Book ahead online or at the station — window seats sell out in summer.
Ride apps and taxis
Use Bolt or Yandex Go in Tbilisi and Batumi for cheap, metered rides — far better than hailing street taxis, which rarely use meters. A short city ride costs 4-8 GEL. Both apps work well with a data connection.
Car rental and driving
Renting a car (from about 80-120 GEL/day) is the best way to reach Kazbegi, Svaneti or the wine roads of Kakheti. Roads are paved on main routes but mountain passes are rough; a 4x4 is wise for Tusheti and upper Svaneti. Drive defensively — local overtaking is bold — and keep cash for fuel in remote areas.
Intercity tips
- Carry small cash (GEL); cards are not accepted on marshrutkas.
- Start mountain journeys early; afternoon weather closes high passes.
- For airport transfers, Bolt is cheaper than fixed-price taxi desks.
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