How To Reach Georgia
Reaching Georgia, the country in the South Caucasus region, can be done by air, land, or sea, depending on your starting point and preferences. The main entry point for international travelers is through Tbilisi International Airport, but there are other airports and land border crossings available.
Reaching Georgia by Air
Traveling to Georgia by air is the most convenient and efficient way for international visitors to reach this beautiful country. Georgia is served by three main international airports: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Kutaisi International Airport (KUT), and Batumi International Airport (BUS), each catering to different regions of the country.
Tbilisi International Airport is the primary gateway into Georgia, located about 17 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Tbilisi. It is the busiest and most well-connected airport in Georgia, offering regular flights from major European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cities. Tbilisi Airport is ideal for those heading to destinations like Gudauri and Kazbegi in the Greater Caucasus.
Kutaisi International Airport serves as an important hub for budget travelers and is located in the central-western part of Georgia. While it is less busy than Tbilisi Airport, it offers direct flights from several major and secondary European cities, and neighboring countries like Kazakhstan. Batumi International Airport is located in the southwest of Georgia and caters primarily to flights from Eastern Europe and the Middle East including Iran, Israel, and Turkey. Batumi airport also connects domestic cities like Tbilisi to Southwestern Georgia.
Reaching Georgia by Bus
Traveling to Georgia by bus is an economical option for those coming from neighboring countries. The main bus terminal in Tbilisi serves as a hub for both international and domestic routes. International bus services connect Georgia with Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. Buses from Turkey typically arrive via the Sarpi border crossing, connecting cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Trabzon with Batumi and Tbilisi. From Armenia, buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) frequently travel from Yerevan to Tbilisi, taking around 5 to 6 hours. From Azerbaijan, travelers can take buses from Baku to Tbilisi, with a journey time of approximately 8 to 9 hours.
Reaching Georgia by Rail
Traveling by train to Georgia is a comfortable and scenic option, especially for those coming from neighboring countries. The Georgian Railway network connects with Armenia and Azerbaijan, offering international rail services. From Armenia, the overnight train from Yerevan to Tbilisi operates every other day, providing a convenient travel option with sleeping compartments. The journey takes approximately 10 to 11 hours. From Azerbaijan, trains run between Baku and Tbilisi, with an overnight journey taking around 12 to 13 hours.
Reaching Georgia by Road
For those who enjoy road trips, driving to Georgia can be a thrilling experience. Georgia is accessible by road from Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. The main border crossings are well-maintained and equipped to handle vehicular traffic. From Turkey, the Sarpi border crossing near Batumi is the most popular entry point. While traveling from Armenia you can enter Georgia via Bagratashen – Sadakhlo, Gogavan – Guguti or Bavra – Ninotsminda. From Azerbaijan, the main entry point is the Red Bridge border crossing. Those driving from Russia can enter through the Kazbegi-Verkhni Lars border crossing, which connects with the Georgian Military Highway. It is important to ensure vehicle documentation is in order, including insurance and international driving permits.
Reaching Georgia by Water
Traveling to Georgia by sea is an adventurous and less common option. The Black Sea port of Batumi receives ferry services from Ukraine and Bulgaria. Ferry services from Ukraine typically operate 3-4 times a week from the port of Chernomorsk near Odessa to Batumi. Meanwhile, a weekly ferry operates from Burgas in Bulgaria to Batumi. These ferries carry both passengers and vehicles, making it a viable option for those traveling with their own cars.
Reaching Georgia from India
Travelers from India can reach Georgia primarily by air, as it is the most convenient and efficient mode of transport. There are no direct flights from India to Georgia, but several airlines offer connecting flights with one or two stopovers. The total travel time, including layovers, typically ranges from 10 to 14 hours, depending on the duration of the stopovers. Indian travelers need to obtain an e-Visa to travel to Georgia. Alternatively, you can also travel to countries like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Iran, and Turkey and reach Georgia by road or rail from there.
