Europe > 🇬🇪 Georgia
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Georgia can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Georgia; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Georgia?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Georgia?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.🏙️ Main Cities in Georgia
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Kutaisi | KUT | |
| Tbilisi | TBS | |
| Tskhinvali | TSKH |
Should You Rent a Car in Georgia? 🚗⛰️
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a country of ancient wine regions, dramatic mountain scenery, medieval monasteries, and warm hospitality. While public transport connects major towns, many of Georgia’s most stunning destinations lie in remote valleys and highland regions. So, should you rent a car in Georgia? The answer depends on how independently you want to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
If you’re focusing on major cities or joining organised tours, you can explore easily without renting a vehicle.
| Destination | Why a Car Isn’t Needed | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Tbilisi | Walkable city with metro and taxis | Metro, walking, Bolt/Uber |
| Batumi | Compact Black Sea resort city | Walking, bus, taxi |
| Kutaisi | Connected by trains and buses | Train or marshrutka |
| Wine tours in Kakheti | Transport included with tours | Minivan or 4×4 tour |
➡ Georgia’s main cities have reliable transport, and guided tours are common for wine regions and day trips.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Option
A rental car offers full control over your itinerary, especially if you plan to explore Georgia’s mountainous interior, scenic lakes, and monasteries tucked away in the countryside.
| Benefit | What You Can Explore |
|---|---|
| Scenic drives | The famous Georgian Military Highway |
| Remote areas | Svaneti, Tusheti, Kazbegi, Vardzia |
| Cultural sites | Rural monasteries and wine villages |
| Flexibility | Stop at viewpoints and local markets |
Popular Self-Drive Regions
| Route | Highlight | Driving Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tbilisi → Kazbegi | Mountain landscapes and churches | Paved but winding |
| Tbilisi → Kakheti | Wine country and vineyards | Easy driving |
| Mestia → Ushguli | UNESCO-listed mountain village | 4×4 required |
| Borjomi → Vardzia | Cave monasteries | Scenic roadtrip |
🚦 Driving in Georgia – What to Expect
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads vary: highways are good, but rural roads can be steep or unpaved
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Georgian drivers can be assertive, especially around Tbilisi
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Fuel stations are frequent in populated areas
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Winter conditions in the mountains may require chains or 4×4
Car Rental Availability
International companies like Avis, Hertz, and Sixt, as well as reliable local firms, operate in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi. A 4×4 is highly recommended for remote and mountain regions.
🚕 Alternatives to Renting a Car
| Transport Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marshrutka minibuses | Budget travel between towns | Frequent but crowded |
| Taxi/Bolt | City and regional trips | Affordable and easy to book |
| Train | Tbilisi–Batumi route | Comfortable alternative |
| Guided tours | Mountain and wine regions | Includes transport |
🧭 Conclusion
Renting a car in Georgia is the best option for travellers who want the freedom to explore its majestic mountains, quiet villages, and stunning wine country independently. However, if your trip is focused on cities, major tourist regions, or organised excursions, you can comfortably rely on Georgia’s mix of public transport, taxis, and tours. The right choice depends on whether your travel style leans toward independent adventure or guided exploration.