Travel tips · Tbilisi · Georgia
Tbilisi travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Alexey Komarov, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Georgian culture is shaped by Orthodox Christianity, an ancient wine tradition and a strong sense of hospitality, summed up in the saying that a guest is a gift from God. The Georgian language has its own alphabet, and traditional polyphonic singing and dance remain popular. Tbilisi has long been a crossroads, with Armenian, Azerbaijani, Jewish and Persian influences visible in its architecture and food.
Key facts
- Language
- Georgian
- Currency
- GEL
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water in Tbilisi is treated and widely drunk by locals; bottled mineral…
- Emergency
- 112 (general emergency number)
Things to know
- In churches, women should cover their hair and wear a skirt (wraps are often available at the entrance); men should wear long trousers.
- At a supra, wait for the tamada's toast before drinking; it is fine to sip rather than drain your glass.
- Accept offers of food and drink graciously; Georgians take hospitality seriously.
- Greet people with 'Gamarjoba'; a few words of Georgian are warmly received.
- Avoid discussing politics unless your hosts raise the subject.
- Book Abanotubani sulphur baths ahead: Private rooms at popular bathhouses fill up in the evenings and at weekends; reserve a day or two ahead.
- Use Bolt rather than street taxis to avoid overcharging.
Tipping
Many restaurants add a 10–18% service charge; if not, leaving about 10% is customary. Round up taxi fares and tip guides and drivers on day trips.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gamarjoba | Hello |
| Madloba | Thank you |
| Gaumarjos | Cheers |
| Ki / Ara | Yes / No |
| Ra ghirs? | How much does it cost? |
| Gemrielia | It's delicious |
| Nakhvamdis | Goodbye |
What to wear
Casual clothing is fine, but bring a scarf and long skirt or trousers for churches. Comfortable shoes are essential for the steep, uneven Old Town streets.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water in Tbilisi is treated and widely drunk by locals; bottled mineral waters such as Borjomi are sold everywhere.
- Emergency number
- 112 (general emergency number)
- Phone and internet
- Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés and hotels; local SIMs from major networks are inexpensive and sold at the airport.
- Time zone
- Asia/Tbilisi
Tbilisi is generally relaxed for visitors. The main risks are fast, unpredictable traffic, uneven pavements and steep cobbles, and occasional overcharging in bars or by unlicensed taxis. Stray dogs are common; most are tagged and vaccinated, but keep your distance.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Georgia's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Tbilisi?
Many restaurants add a 10–18% service charge; if not, leaving about 10% is customary. Round up taxi fares and tip guides and drivers on day trips.
+Can you drink the tap water in Tbilisi?
Tap water in Tbilisi is treated and widely drunk by locals; bottled mineral waters such as Borjomi are sold everywhere.
+What plugs are used in Tbilisi?
Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Tbilisi?
Georgian.