Georgia explored, laterally

Georgia is a tiny country of immense scenic beauty. The majestic Caucasus Mountains stretch from the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea coast, taking in fertile valleys, wildflower-studded meadows and snow-capped peaks. The capital, Tbilisi, has a picturesque old quarter and a diverse cultural heritage - here, you will find mosques alongside Victorian villas, ancient churches and quaint sidewalk cafes. Northwest of the city lies the hilltop Jvari Monastery and the ancient capital of Mtskheta - both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This age-old town is home to a medieval church where Christianity was officially adopted as the country's religion in the 4th century. Further north lies the nation's stellar attraction - the Caucasus Range - with its web of exquisite hiking routes. Georgia also has fascinating cultural and archaeological attractions and ancient cave cities where religious minority groups sheltered to avoid persecution.

Currency 

Local currency: Georgian Lari 
Symbol: ₾ 
ISO code: GEL 
Subunit: Tetri (1/100) 
Banknotes: ₾5, ₾10, ₾20, ₾50, ₾100 
Coins: 1 Tetri, 2 Tetri, 5 Tetri, 10 Tetri, 20 Tetri, ₾1, ₾2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Limited acceptance 
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 09:00-17:00 
Weekends: Limited hours 
Public Holidays: Yes (varies) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: Georgian Airways, Airzena Georgian Airways 
International Airports: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Kutaisi International Airport (KUT), Batumi International Airport (BUS) 
Domestic Airports: Yes 

Road: 
Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes (in rural areas) 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: Limited 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Georgian cuisine is flavorful and diverse, featuring dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and pkhali (vegetable pâté). Wine is an integral part of Georgian culture, with notable local drinks including Georgian wine and chacha (grape brandy). 

Tipping: Generally 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 15-25 °C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 10°C 
Average lows: 0°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Georgia is during the spring and autumn months (April to May and September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and tourist attractions are less crowded. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Limited 

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 220 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.