Travel Essentials › Georgia
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types C and F; 220 V, 50 Hz. Emergency: One number for everything 112. Tipping: A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise leaving 10% is appreciated. Tap water: Drink bottled or treated water outside major cities.
Types C and F; 220 V, 50 Hz
| One number for everything | 112 |
A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise leaving 10% is appreciated.
Greetings. "Gamarjoba" is the common hello. Men shake hands and close male friends often embrace; friends and relatives kiss on the cheek. Men usually wait for a woman to offer her hand, and elders are greeted first.
Toasting culture. Meals often feature a tamada (toastmaster) leading many elaborate toasts; you're expected to participate, though sipping rather than draining your glass is fine.
Hospitality. Georgians take pride in hospitality; accepting offered food or drink is polite and appreciated.
Homes and markets. Remove shoes when entering someone's home; aggressive bargaining in markets is seen as impolite.
Georgia is one of the safer countries in the region with low violent crime, and Tbilisi is often ranked among Europe's safest capitals for walking alone.
Taxi and bar overcharging. Use ride-hailing apps (Bolt) and check bar tabs carefully, especially in nightlife areas.
Drink-related incidents. There have been isolated drink-spiking reports in some Tbilisi bars; don't leave drinks unattended.
Child-beggar distraction. Occasionally used as cover for pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Women travelers. Generally safe including at night in central Tbilisi; normal precautions are wise elsewhere, especially late at night.
Partly legal · Use Caution
Same-sex relations are legal, but marriage/unions aren't recognized, a 2024 law bans 'LGBT propaganda,' and public events face violent opposition; surveys show Georgia has some of the highest anti-gay sentiment in Europe, so public displays of affection can draw hostility, especially outside Tbilisi.
| Coffee (café) | 8 GEL | $3.00 |
| Local bus or metro ride | 1 GEL | $0.40 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | 35 GEL | $13 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | 30 GEL | $11 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | 200 GEL | $74 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | 200 GEL | $74 |
2026-09
May–June and September–October are best, with mild weather, good hiking conditions and (in autumn) the wine harvest; winter is good for skiing in Gudauri.