Planning a trip to Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state)? Whether you’re flying into Tbilisi or hopping off a minibus in Batumi, you’ll eventually face the same question: should I rent a car, rely on taxis, or join a tour?
Georgia may be small in size, but the diversity of its landscapes — from the beaches of the Black Sea to the snowy peaks of the Caucasus — means getting around isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this guide, we’ll compare your main transport options with real costs, local quirks, and first-hand tips. Spoiler: renting a car isn’t always the obvious answer… but it might be the smartest.
Getting Around Georgia – The Big Three
Let’s break down the most common ways travelers move around the country:
Rental Cars
Renting a car in Georgia gives you full freedom to explore at your own pace. No waiting for buses. No herding around with tourists. Just you, the road, and some goats (yes, they roam freely in the mountains — you’ll see).
But driving in Georgia comes with its own set of challenges. Locals drive like it’s a sport, road signs can vanish into thin air, and your GPS might send you up a cliffside trail meant for goats, not Toyotas.
Cost snapshot (as of 2025):
| Car Type | Average Daily Rate | Fuel Price (per liter) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (Toyota Prius) | $25–30 | ~$1.20 | Great for cities & short trips |
| SUV / 4×4 | $45–60 | ~$1.20 | Best for mountains or Tusheti |
Rental prices vary by season — July, August, and around Orthodox Easter see the biggest spikes. Booking in advance (especially through local companies) can save you up to 30%.
Pro tip: Local companies like City Rent, MyAuto.ge, or Giko Travel often have better deals and less deposit hassle than global brands.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing
If you’re planning to stay in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi, taxis and ride apps like Bolt and Yandex Go are dirt cheap and extremely convenient. A ride across Tbilisi rarely costs more than $3–4. No need to haggle. Just tap and go.
When taxis shine:
- Airport transfers
- Nighttime returns from restaurants or bars
- Short city hops (especially if you’re unfamiliar with Georgian street signs)
But the moment you leave the city bubble, prices jump — and sometimes drivers just won’t take you to remote places like Kazbegi or Vardzia.
Mini-story: I once tried to get a taxi to Ushguli. The driver asked if my health insurance was up to date — and then offered to drive “until the road disappears.”
Organized Tours
Tours in Georgia range from casual day-trips to full-blown week-long packages. They’re great if:
- You want to see a lot in a short time
- You don’t want to drive
- You’re traveling solo and want company
Expect to pay $20–50 for a day tour, and upward of $500 for multi-day private routes. Many companies operate from Freedom Square in Tbilisi or offer packages online.
Pros:
- No logistics to figure out
- English-speaking guide
- Often includes meals, entrance tickets, and wine tastings
Cons:
- Fixed schedules
- Less spontaneous fun
- You might end up on a bus with 15 sleepy strangers
So, When Is It Best to Rent a Car in Georgia?
If you’re looking for flexibility, hidden spots, and a little adventure — a rental is hard to beat. Here’s when you should consider it:
- You’re planning to explore beyond the main cities. Think Kazbegi, Vardzia, Tusheti, Lagodekhi.
- You’re traveling as a couple or group. The cost per person drops significantly.
- You like stopping for roadside fruit, ancient churches, or just mountain selfies.
- You’re staying in rural guesthouses or wineries that aren’t on public routes.
Quick hack: Use Google Maps, but double-check with locals if it sends you on “the shortcut.” Some of those paths are only good for donkeys and legends.
When It’s Better to Skip the Wheel
Don’t rent a car if:
- You’re only staying in Tbilisi or Batumi. It’s more hassle than help. Parking is chaotic and expensive.
- You don’t feel confident driving in aggressive traffic with minimal road rules.
- You’re on a tight budget or solo trip — shared tours can be cheaper and safer.
- You plan to drink wine. (Georgia is famous for it. Don’t drink and drive — ever.)
Personal tip: Georgian hospitality means lots of wine. If you’re invited to a supra (feast) — take a taxi, not the wheel.
What About Public Transport and Marshrutkas?
Ah yes, the famous marshrutkas — Soviet-style minibuses that operate between cities. They’re cheap (under $5 for a 3-hour ride) and frequent… but:
- There’s no schedule. They leave when full.
- Limited luggage space.
- Zero English.
- No air conditioning or seat belts.
- You’re at the mercy of the driver’s playlist (it’s always loud pop ballads from 2004).
Great for the brave, the thrifty, or the nostalgic. Less so for comfort seekers.
Final Comparison – At a Glance
| Factor | Rental Car | Taxis / Ride Apps | Tours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per day | $30–60 (plus gas) | $3–$50 (depending on trip) | $20–$70+ |
| Flexibility | Total freedom | Medium (only local trips) | None |
| Comfort | High (you choose car) | High (short trips) | Medium to high |
| Language Barrier | None (you drive) | Some drivers speak English | Guides usually fluent |
| Best For | Adventurers, road-trippers | City travelers, solo | First-timers, lazy days |
| Risk Level | Medium (driving stress) | Low | Low |
What’s Right for You?
There’s no universal answer. If you’re planning a city break with wine and walking, skip the rental. Stick to taxis or grab a fun guided tour. But if you’re craving that moment where you pull off the highway to chase a sunset over a vineyard — a rental will make it all possible.
Georgia is wild and wonderful, and the best transport choice depends on how you like to travel. Just remember: whether you’re behind the wheel, in the back seat, or on a marshrutka — the journey here is half the fun.