Arrival & Getting into Town

Tbilisi International Airport is about 20 km from the city center. You can take an airport express bus or a taxi into town, with a journey time of around 30–40 minutes. Batumi and Kutaisi also have international airports, with some flights making stopovers or operated by low-cost carriers. It’s recommended to book a transfer via a ride-hailing app or your hotel to agree on a fixed price and avoid being overcharged by touts in the arrivals hall.

Public Transport in the City

• Metro: Tbilisi Metro covers the main areas. Fares are charged per ride—you’ll need to buy a transit card or pay with a bank card.
• Buses & Minibuses: Services are frequent. Minibuses (called marshrutkas) are a common way to get around, with flexible schedules but often crowded.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Local apps are widely used, offer transparent pricing, and are convenient for tourists, especially at night.
• Cable Car: The cable car from Tbilisi to Narikala Fortress accepts transit cards and offers great views.

Between Cities

• Tbilisi – Mtskheta: Around 30 minutes by car, possible as a day trip.
• Tbilisi – Kazbegi (Stepantsminda): Around 3 hours by car, via the Military Highway.
• Tbilisi – Sighnaghi: Around 2 hours by car, mostly via minibuses.
• Tbilisi – Batumi: Around 5–6 hours by train or minibus; trains are more comfortable.

Private Transfers & Mountain Areas

For trips to Kazbegi, Svaneti, or wineries, private transfers are the most convenient option. Prices are negotiated based on duration and route, and it’s best to confirm your itinerary and waiting arrangements in advance. Mountain roads are highly weather-dependent, and some routes may be closed in winter—check road conditions and vehicle suitability before setting out.

Tips

• Taxis usually don’t use meters—agree on a fare before getting in or use a ride-hailing app.
• Long-distance minibuses run on varying schedules depending on the vehicle type and time; during peak season, it’s wise to check timetables in advance.
• Mountain areas may have intermittent mobile coverage, so download offline maps beforehand.