Transport in Georgia is convenient and cheap: Tbilisi has a metro, marshrutkas and buses run within cities, marshrutkas and trains run between regions, and taxis are hailed through familiar apps. In this guide we'll cover every way of getting around with up-to-date 2026 prices — both for the city and for traveling across the country.
City transport in Tbilisi
The capital's transport system is one of the most affordable in the region. All modes of transport run on a single MetroMoney card.
- Metro — two lines, a fast way to cross the city without traffic jams.
- Buses — a modern fleet, convenient for routes not served by the metro.
- Marshrutkas — fast minibuses that cover the whole city.
A ride costs about 1 GEL, and an unlimited travel pass costs roughly $4/month. The MetroMoney card can be topped up at metro ticket offices and machines.
The MetroMoney card
This is a single travel pass for the metro, buses and marshrutkas. One payment covers transfers within a limited time, which makes trips with transfers economical. It is convenient to keep the card topped up so you don't depend on having loose change.
Taxis: Bolt and Yandex
The Bolt and Yandex Go apps operate in the cities — this is the most convenient option for those who don't want to figure out routes.
- A ride around the city: from $2–4.
- Payment: cash or card through the app.
- The upside of the apps: a fixed price set in advance, with no haggling with the driver.
Hailing a taxi on the street is not recommended — through the app it's both cheaper and more transparent.
Intercity transport
There are several options for traveling between cities:
- Marshrutkas (shared minibuses) — the most common option, departing from bus stations.
- Trains — for example, the popular Tbilisi–Batumi route, comfortable for long trips.
- Intercity buses — on the main routes.
The Tbilisi–Batumi train is convenient for a trip to the coast: you can travel in comfort without worrying about the road, especially in summer when the highway is congested.
Car rental for trips around the regions
To see mountain Georgia — Kazbegi, Svaneti, the wine regions — renting a car is the most convenient option. Things to note:
- Freedom of route — mountain and remote areas are not always covered by public transport.
- Roads — they can be difficult in the mountains, and some destinations require an SUV.
- Parking — it can be a problem in central Tbilisi, so keep that in mind.
Car rental is especially popular for independent travel around the country and trips to scenic regions.
Bicycles, scooters and walking
Micromobility is gaining popularity in Tbilisi: rental scooters and bicycles are appearing, convenient for short rides around flat neighborhoods. However, the city's terrain is hilly and traffic is dense in places, so this kind of transport is more of a supplement than a main way of getting around. The Old Town and center are pleasant to explore on foot — many attractions are located close together.
Tips for saving on transport
To spend the minimum on getting around:
- get a MetroMoney card and use the single fare with free transfers;
- for regular trips, get an unlimited travel pass (~$4/month);
- order taxis only through the apps — it's cheaper and there's no haggling;
- for trips around the country, compare the train and the marshrutka by price and time.
When it's more economical to rent a car
If you're planning several trips around the regions in a row, renting a car for a week may work out cheaper than a series of separate transfers. For single outings to attractions, it can sometimes be cheaper to hire a driver for the day.
Road safety
City traffic in Georgia is lively, and the driving style can be assertive. Pedestrians should be attentive at crossings, and those who get behind the wheel should allow extra time and stay calm. In the mountains the roads are narrow and winding, and in winter some passes close due to snow, so it's best to plan a regional route with the season and weather forecast in mind.
Conclusion
Getting around Georgia is easy and inexpensive: in the city the metro, marshrutkas and taxis come in handy, between regions there are trains and marshrutkas, and for the mountains car rental is convenient. Understanding the transport system makes everyday life and travel comfortable. If you are planning a move and want to sort out everyday matters in advance, the Angels Investment team will advise you on all aspects of life in the country.
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FAQ
Do you need a car to live in Tbilisi?
No. Public transport and taxis fully cover the needs of the city. A car is mainly useful for trips around the regions.
How do you pay for the metro and buses?
With a MetroMoney card, which can be topped up at the metro and machines. A single ride costs about 1 GEL.
What should you choose for the Tbilisi–Batumi trip?
The train is a comfortable and predictable option. Marshrutkas are faster at the start, but the road can be congested in summer.
Is it safe to use taxis?
Through the Bolt and Yandex Go apps — yes: the price is known in advance and the route is tracked.
Is it hard to drive in Georgia?
City traffic is lively, and mountain roads require experience. For the regions, many choose to rent a car or hire a driver.