Georgia, a breathtaking country at the intersection of Europe and Asia, is quickly becoming a favorite destination for budget travelers. With its stunning mountain scenery, ancient churches, warm hospitality, and surprisingly low prices, Georgia makes it easy to explore without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a student traveler or simply watching your spending, this guide from Georgia Guider will show you how to travel in Georgia country on a budget—smartly and comfortably.
For a sample travel itinerary, check out our curated Georgia Travel Itinerary to make your trip even more affordable and stress-free.
Is Georgia Expensive to Travel? Let’s Compare
| Category | Georgia 🇬🇪 | Western Europe 🇫🇷🇩🇪 | Southeast Asia 🇹🇭🇻🇳 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotel/Night | $10–$25 | $70–$150 | $10–$30 |
| Local Meal | $4–$7 | $15–$25 | $3–$8 |
| Public Transport | $0.20–$1 | $2–$4 | $0.30–$1 |
| Entry to Attractions | $2–$5 | $10–$25 | $1–$10 |
➡️ Verdict: Georgia is significantly cheaper than most European destinations and offers great value similar to Southeast Asia.
Budget-Friendly Places to Visit in Georgia Country
- Tbilisi Old Town
- Free walking tours available
- Ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress (~$1.50)
- Eat local khinkali for under $5
- Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
- Breathtaking mountain scenery
- Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church (free)
- Stay in homestays for $10–$15/night
- Kutaisi
- Flights from Europe land here (cheaper than Tbilisi)
- Visit Gelati Monastery (UNESCO site, free entry)
- Local marshrutkas (shared minivans) to nearby canyons cost $1–$2
- Batumi (Black Sea)
- Free beach access
- Budget-friendly seafood and street food
- Stroll the boulevard and botanical garden for under $2
- Signagi (City of Love)
- Beautiful hilltop town with cheap guesthouses
- Rent a bicycle for $3–$5 to explore Kakheti vineyards
How to Save Money on Transportation
- Marshrutkas (Minibuses): Cheapest way to travel across cities; fares start at $1.
- Trains: Night trains between Tbilisi and Zugdidi are budget-friendly and save on accommodation.
- Metro & Buses in Tbilisi: Only $0.20 per ride with a MetroMoney card.
- Shared Taxis: Good for remote areas—share with other travelers to cut costs.
- Car Rentals: Split between 3–4 people, it becomes affordable for mountainous trips.
Budget Accommodation Tips
- Guesthouses & Homestays: Start at $10–$15 per night including breakfast.
- Hostels in Tbilisi: Beds from $6–$12/night; many include free tours or wine tasting.
- Couchsurfing: Georgia has a generous couchsurfing community.
Top Free or Cheap Experiences
- Visit ancient monasteries (most are free to enter)
- Hike in national parks like Borjomi-Kharagauli or Tusheti
- Join cultural events and festivals in spring or autumn
- Soak in Sulfur Baths in Tbilisi (~$5–$10)
- Enjoy local feasts (supra) when invited—Georgians are extremely hospitable
Travel Tips to Keep Costs Low
- Travel Off-Season (March–May or September–November) for lower prices.
- Avoid tourist traps in Old Town restaurants—eat at local bakeries or markets.
- Buy SIM card on arrival (~$5 for unlimited data).
- Carry cash—many rural areas don’t accept cards.
- Use ride-sharing apps like Bolt (cheaper than taxis).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Georgia safe for solo or budget travelers?
Yes, Georgia is one of the safest countries in the region. Locals are friendly, and crimes against tourists are very rare.
Q2: What is the daily budget for backpackers in Georgia?
You can easily manage on $25–$35 per day, including accommodation, meals, transport, and activities.
Q3: Can I use USD or Euros in Georgia?
No. The local currency is Georgian Lari (GEL). Exchange money at banks or ATMs for better rates.
Q4: Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. Georgian cuisine includes lobio (bean stew), pkhali (vegetable pate), salads, and bread-based dishes.
Conclusion
Traveling to Georgia on a budget doesn’t mean missing out. With smart planning, you can experience the country’s culture, food, and natural beauty without overspending. From $1 marshrutka rides to $10 mountain stays, Georgia delivers incredible value. Whether you’re trekking in Kazbegi or exploring cobbled streets in Tbilisi, you’ll find every lari well spent.
Visit Georgia Guider for more detailed guides and don’t forget to check the Georgia Travel Itinerary to build your perfect low-cost journey through this unforgettable country.
