Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia offers stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and some of the world’s most hospitable people. If you’re a budget traveler, you’ll be delighted to know that Georgia is an affordable destination where you can explore the country’s natural beauty, enjoy delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in its history—all for as little as $35 a day! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to travel Georgia on a tight budget, without compromising on experience.
1. Budget Accommodation: Where to Stay for Cheap
When traveling on a budget, accommodation is often the biggest expense. But in Georgia, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how you can keep costs low.
Hostels and Guesthouses
Hostels are prevalent across major cities like Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi, offering beds for as low as $5-10 per night. Many hostels offer free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and a friendly atmosphere that encourages interaction with fellow travelers. Some popular hostels include Fabrika Hostel in Tbilisi and Kutaisi Hostel in Kutaisi.
If you prefer a quieter setting, guesthouses are another affordable option. Family-run guesthouses in smaller towns like Mestia or Kazbegi can cost anywhere from $10-15 per night, often with breakfast included.
Couchsurfing
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and meet locals. Georgia’s culture of hospitality shines here, and you’ll find many hosts eager to show you around their city or village.
Airbnb and Private Rentals
While Airbnb might seem like a pricier option, Georgia offers plenty of budget-friendly private rooms or entire apartments for around $15-20 per night. Look for listings in less touristy areas or book well in advance to snag the best deals.
Estimated Daily Cost for Accommodation: $10-15
2. Cheap Eats: How to Dine Like a Local
Georgia is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and eating well on a budget is entirely possible. You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the country’s culinary delights.
Local Eateries and Bakeries
Skip the fancy restaurants and head to local bakeries (known as “puri”) and family-run eateries (“sakhinkle”) for meals under $5. Some must-try dishes include:
- Khachapuri (Cheese-filled bread): $1-2
- Khinkali (Georgian dumplings): $0.15-0.25 per piece
- Lobio (Bean stew): $1-2
Local cafes, especially outside of Tbilisi, serve hearty meals for about $3-5. You can try a bowl of chikhirtma (chicken soup) or mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers) for next to nothing.
Street Food and Markets
Street food in Georgia is both delicious and cheap. You can grab churchkhela (a string of nuts coated in grape juice) for around $0.50 or lobiani (bean-stuffed bread) for $1. Visit local markets to buy fresh produce, bread, and cheese for a DIY picnic.
Self-Catering
If you’re staying in a hostel or Airbnb with kitchen access, self-catering can help stretch your budget even further. Buy ingredients from local markets, and you can easily prepare meals for $2-3 a day.
Estimated Daily Cost for Food: $7-10
3. Transportation: Getting Around on a Budget
Georgia has a fantastic public transportation system, and getting around the country is affordable and straightforward.
Marshrutkas (Minibuses)
Marshrutkas are the backbone of Georgian public transport and connect virtually every town and city. A ride from Tbilisi to Batumi, which takes about 6 hours, costs around $10. Shorter journeys, like Tbilisi to Kazbegi, cost about $3-4. Marshrutkas are reliable, but be prepared for a bumpy ride on some routes!
Local Buses and Metro
Tbilisi has an extensive bus and metro network, with fares as low as $0.15-0.30 per ride. If you’re staying in the capital for more than a couple of days, consider getting a Metromoney card, which offers discounted fares on public transport.
Trains
Trains in Georgia are cheap and comfortable, especially on the main routes like Tbilisi to Batumi. A second-class ticket costs around $7-8, and you can even take overnight trains with sleeper options.
Ridesharing
For short distances, using apps like Bolt or Yandex Taxi can be an affordable option, especially when splitting the fare with fellow travelers. Rides within Tbilisi rarely exceed $3, even for longer trips.
Estimated Daily Cost for Transportation: $5-7
4. Sightseeing: How to Experience Georgia for Free (or Almost Free)
One of the best things about Georgia is that many of its top attractions are either free or extremely affordable.
Tbilisi on a Budget
In Tbilisi, you can explore the Old Town, climb to Narikala Fortress, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and stroll along the Mtkvari River—all for free. Museums, such as the Georgian National Museum, charge a modest entry fee of $2-3. Consider taking a free walking tour to learn more about the city’s history from a local guide (tips are appreciated but not mandatory).
Hiking in the Caucasus
Georgia is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails that lead to breathtaking views, ancient monasteries, and secluded villages. Hiking is free, and the popular routes, such as the Mestia to Ushguli trek, don’t require permits or fees. Just make sure to pack some snacks and water, and you’re good to go.
Monasteries and Churches
Georgia is home to some of the oldest Christian monuments in the world, and visiting these sites is either free or costs a small donation. Don’t miss Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, and the remote David Gareja Monastery complex.
Free Festivals and Events
Georgia hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Tbilisi Jazz Festival or Batumi’s Black Sea Jazz Festival. Attending open-air performances or street parades can be a great way to experience the local culture without spending a dime.
Estimated Daily Cost for Sightseeing: $3-5
5. Money-Saving Tips: Stretch Your Dollar Further
Here are some additional tips to help you stick to your $35-a-day budget:
- Travel Off-Season: Georgia’s peak tourist season is during the summer months. If you visit in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October), you’ll find cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds.
- Use Free Wi-Fi: Many cafes, restaurants, and hostels offer free Wi-Fi. This can save you the cost of buying a SIM card or data package.
- Learn Basic Georgian: While many people in Georgia speak English, especially in the cities, learning a few basic phrases in Georgian can go a long way in getting better deals or connecting with locals.
- Negotiate Prices: In markets and with taxi drivers, bargaining is common. Always ask for a lower price or be willing to walk away if you think you’re being overcharged.
- Walk and Hike: Walking is a great way to explore Georgian cities and towns without spending money on transportation. Many of Georgia’s natural attractions, such as waterfalls, lakes, and mountains, are accessible on foot.
Sample Daily Budget Breakdown
- Accommodation: $10 (Hostel or guesthouse)
- Food: $8 (Local eateries and bakeries)
- Transportation: $5 (Marshrutkas, metro, and buses)
- Sightseeing: $3 (Museums, monasteries, or hiking)
- Miscellaneous: $4 (Coffee, snacks, or tips)
Total: $30-35/day
Conclusion: Is Georgia Really That Affordable?
Absolutely! With a daily budget of $35, you can experience Georgia’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes without sacrificing comfort or enjoyment. Whether you’re wandering through Tbilisi’s winding streets, hiking in the Caucasus, or savoring a plate of khachapuri in a mountain village, Georgia is a destination that offers incredible value for money. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s best budget-friendly travel destinations!