This article is written for solo female travelers visiting Georgia as part of our women-only tour or on their own.
NOTE: Given the high level of confusion between Georgia, the US State, and Georgia, the country, it is worth clarifying that this article is about the European country.
You will find a brief history of the country, tips for the best time to visit, travel essentials and entry requirements, health and safety advice, and some local culture, from basic Georgian vocab to the best foods and drinks to try.
I have also included a reading list, and a few movies and shows to watch to immerse yourself in the culture.
Looking for what to pack? You can find our Georgia packing list here.
Intro to the history of Georgia
Georgia is a country that sits between Europe and Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and northeast, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast, and with a western coastline on the Black Sea.
It’s a former Soviet republic famous for Vardzia, a cave monastery dating to the 12th century, and the ancient wine-growing region Kakheti. And you’ve likely heard of Tbilisi, the capital city, which is famous for ancient architecture and an old town of mazelike, cobblestone streets.
Georgia is a country with roots that stretch back thousands of years. Its history isn’t just old – it’s ancient. We’re talking about the first signs of human settlements here, way back around 6,000 BC.
This was a time when civilization was still figuring out how to build things out of stone. Fast forward a few thousand years, and the region was called the Kingdom of Colchis, largely considered to be the original Georgia.
The Kingdom of Colchis was famous for gold, and if you’ve ever heard of the Greek Myth of Jason and the Argonauts, that Jason sailed to Colchis in search of the legendary Golden Fleece. This was a magical object in Greek mythology, said to be the skin of a winged ram that was covered in gold.
According to the myth, this ram had been sent by the gods to save Phrixus, the son of King Athamas, from being sacrificed. After the ram carried Phrixus to safety, he sacrificed it to Zeus and hung its golden fleece in a sacred grove, guarded by a never-sleeping dragon.
The journey to obtain the fleece became one of the most famous adventures in Greek mythology. And Colchis, located on the western edge of modern-day Georgia, was rumored to hold this legendary treasure. This legend is represented in many places across the country, including on the walls of a building in Kutaisi (pictured above), so keep it in mind during your trip.
By the 4th century AD, Georgia embraced Christianity, becoming one of the first countries in the world to do so. This was a pivotal moment that not only shaped the nation’s spiritual life but also influenced its art, architecture, and identity. The churches and monasteries that dot the Georgian landscape today stand as testaments to this deep-rooted heritage.
The medieval period was a golden age for Georgia, and the Kingdom reached its peak under the reigns of King David IV and Queen Tamar in the 11th and 12th centuries.
However, this prosperity was challenged by constant invasions from Mongols, Ottomans, and Persians, as a result of its strategic location in the crossroads between Europe and Asia, leading to periods of fragmentation and foreign domination. Their influence can still be seen in Old Tbilisi.
In the 19th century, Georgia was annexed by the Russian Empire, and later became part of the Soviet Union. These eras brought significant political and social changes, but also sparked a strong desire for independence among the Georgian people.
In 1991, Georgia declared its independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The journey since has been one of rebuilding and asserting its sovereignty, navigating challenges both internal and external, while always striving to maintain its unique cultural identity.
Today, Georgia is a vibrant country that honors and respects its ancient past, while still shaping its modern culture and with its sights set on joining the European Union.
Quick facts about Georgia
Georgia is an incredibly unique country with many interesting facts that set it apart from the rest of the world. For a country that is located in such a strategic point between the world’s most important empires (Russia, Ottoman Empire, Persia, Mongolia, etc.) it is remarkable that its identity has remained as original.
- Wine lovers: Georgia is the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking tradition over 8,000 years old.
There are vineyards in every corner of the country, many of them family-owned and deeply rooted in history. Georgia’s unique method of fermenting wine in clay vessels that are buried underground called qvevri, is part of UNESCO’s cultural heritage. The country is also famous for its orange wine and its focus on natural wines. On our tour we have many natural wine tastings and winery visits with the winemakers to enjoy and learn about the world’s oldest wines.
- Unique Alphabet: The Georgian alphabet is completely unique and unlike any other language. The script dates back to the 5th century and has remained largely unchanged. You’ll see it everywhere, from street signs to menus, and it’s an incredible part of the country’s identity.
Most Georgians speak both Russian and English, though they’ll always appreciate it if you make an effort to speak their native tongue.
- Georgians Have Their Own Version of a “Cheers”: In Georgia, a toast is more than just a quick “Cheers!” It’s quite an elaborate tradition.
The toastmaster (tamada) leads the group through multiple toasts, honoring everything from family to friendship, and even the entire country. It’s customary to offer a toast for everything, and it’s expected to drink from a large wine glass, often filled to the brim (lucky us!)
- The first Christian Kingdom: Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, adopting Christianity in 337 AD, long before many Western nations. The country separated from the Catholic church to form its own Orthodox religion in the 11th century.
The patron saint is St. George, who can be seen everywhere;, from churches to the national flag, you can’t walk through Georgia without seeing his cross.
- Oldest Recorded Human Remains in Europe: The oldest known remains of hominins in Europe were discovered in Georgia’s Dmanisi site.
Dated to about 1.8 million years ago, this provides a unique glimpse into early human life and migration patterns, making Georgia a key location in the study of human evolution.
- Wrestling culture: Georgia has one of the oldest and most unique forms of wrestling. Chidaoba is a traditional Georgian martial art that has been practiced for centuries and is considered a national sport. But it’s not only a physical contest, it’s also a display of grace and respect for tradition.
- Georgians love coffee: While Georgia is (obviously) famous for its wine, coffee is a huge part of modern day life too. Locals will sit for hours over a cup of coffee, and eat sweets like Gozinaki (candied walnuts). Georgian coffee culture is rooted in friendship and hospitality, and every coffee break is a social occasion.
Georgia travel tips
In this section, we will discuss various travel tips that will come in handy during a visit to Georgia.
When to visit
The best time to visit Georgia depends on what you’re interested in; Spring and Autumn offer mild weather and vibrant cultural experiences and festivals. Summer is hot, but great for adventure, and winter is cold, but is a popular season for snow sports.
We run our tour in the last weeks of summer, when the temperatures are milder, rainfall low, and the wine season is in full swing.
Spring in Georgia is March – May, and everything begins to bloom as the weather warms up. There’s a fresh energy about being here in spring, and temperatures hover around the mid-20s°C, which is the perfect time if you’re spending time in the Caucasus Mountains. You’ll find yourself surrounded by lush landscapes, with wildflowers popping up in every corner.
Summer is June – mid September, and while temperatures can heat up to the 40s°C, the weather is perfect for spending time on the coast in places like Batumi, where you can enjoy a Mediterranean-style vacation by the Black Sea.
Summer is also ideal for trekking in the mountains, for destinations like Kazbegi or Svaneti, and there are still plenty of festivals on; you’ll be able to catch music events and local cultural celebrations pretty consistently across the country.
The wine harvest season will happen towards the end of summer, bringing life to the many small wineries across the country.
Autumn, October – November, the weather is still warm, but not too hot, and the fall foliage in regions like Svaneti and Racha turns the mountains and valleys into beautiful reds, oranges, and golds. It’s the perfect time for combining hiking and being outdoors, with some of the best wine festivals in the world.
Winter is December through February, and while it’s cold, if you’re into winter sports, Georgia is a dream. During winter Georgia is known for its slopes.
Public holidays and festivals in Georgia
These holidays are celebrated nationwide, with many businesses closed, especially on major religious holidays. Keep in mind that some holidays are based on the Orthodox Christian calendar, so their dates shift slightly each year and differ from the Catholic celebrations.
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Orthodox Christmas – January 7
- International Women’s Day – March 8
- Holy Easter – Date varies (based on Orthodox Christian calendar)
- Labor Day – May 1
- Georgian Independence Day – May 26
- Assumption of Mary – August 28
- The Day of the Blessed Virgin Mary – September 27
- Revolution Day – November 7
- St. George’s Day – November 23
- Christmas (Orthodox) – December 25
Passport and visa requirements
Georgia is not part of the European Union or the Schengen Zone, though as of 2025, citizens from over 90 countries can enter Georgia without needing a visa, making it one of the most accessible countries in the world for solo female travelers.
Georgia allows you to stay visa free for up to one year, and this applies to anyone from European Union countries, and several others including Australia, Canada, and the United States.
Georgia has tightened visa policies for citizens of 17 countries, so it’s a good idea to double-check the latest entry rules on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia’s website before your trip.
Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after departure and have 2 empty pages.
Proof of onward travel and financial means: It’s possible that you may be asked to prove onward travel, that is, a flight out of Georgia, and enough financial resources to stay for the duration of your visit, especially if you’re staying for up to a year.
Health and safety
Bring all the medication you’ll need: During your trip to Georgia, you will usually not be more than 2-hours drive from a doctor, a hospital or a pharmacy, but it is strongly recommended to bring any prescription medication you may need and enough of it to last you the entire trip.
Your specific medication may not exist in Georgia, or it may require a prescription you need to see a doctor for, save time and hassle by bringing everything you may need with you. Review what you should bring in your first aid kit here.
IMPORTANT: Make sure any prescription medication comes in its original pharmacy packaging, and with the corresponding doctor note and prescription to avoid issues at the border. It is your responsibility to check that whatever medication you bring can indeed be taken into Georgia. What may be legal in your country, or even sold over the counter, could be a controlled substance elsewhere. You should always check before the trip with the corresponding Georgian body.
Get that coverage: We never leave the house without purchasing extensive medical and travel insurance coverage and this is why we make it mandatory to join our tours. You should make sure that you have adequate medical insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.
Unexpected accidents do happen, and if you needed to be evacuated back home with an injury, the medical bill could bankrupt you.
The best travel insurance will differ for each traveler, depending on the nature, style, and length of your trip, so we recommend using an aggregator and comparison tool such as Travel Insurance Masters to find the right one for you depending on what coverage you want, age, location, trip, etc.
In case of emergency: 112 is the single number that connects you to all emergency services: Police, Ambulance, Fire, and Rescue. It’s available 24/7 across the country and can be dialed from any mobile or landline phone. Calls are free of charge, even if your phone has no credit or SIM card.
There is additionally a tourist hotline, by calling 1441. This number is for assistance related to tourism, including information and support, and is in both English and Georgian.
Some more numbers to keep handy (we recommend you write down the phone number for your local embassy in Georgia too):
- Call 113 if you have an emergency medical situation
- Call 122 for Police
- Call 111 for the Fire department
Tap water: While you’d be forgiven for thinking wine flowed from the taps in Georgia, water does instead and it is generally considered safe to drink, especially in larger cities like Tbilisi and Batumi.
The water quality is monitored by the government, and it’s typically treated and purified to meet international standards. Many locals drink tap water without hesitation, and it’s commonly used in homes, restaurants, and public spaces.
We always recommend caution if you’re traveling to more rural or remote areas, and while it may not be unsafe, there could be fluctuations in water quality in these areas because of older infrastructure or local water sources and you may end up with an upset stomach because the water is different from what you are used to.
Bottled water is widely available in Georgia, though we prefer not to contribute to the global plastic problem, so we recommend a water filter bottle that has an inbuilt filter for you. You can fill it with any water and press down the filter to have drinking water in a minute.
Safety in Georgia for solo female travelers
When we conducted our first Solo Female Travel Survey, one of the most relevant take-aways was that women who travel solo unanimously worry about their personal safety.
The best countries for first time solo female travelers all have safety in common. That’s why we created the first and most complete resource for women who travel solo to find safety information by country or destination.
With safety data coming from the US and UK Travel Advisories and the Global Peace Index, the index considers factors like the risk of theft, scam and harassment, as well as analyzing attitudes towards women in each country to rank each country from 1-4, 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.
Georgia is one of the safest countries in the region for solo female travelers. Crime is low, and violent crime is quite rare.
Tbilisi is generally safe to explore, even at night, and most members of our community report feeling relatively secure. While petty crimes like pickpocketing can occasionally happen, especially in crowded areas or on public transport, they aren’t widespread here like other European capitals (Barcelona, Rome etc).
Georgian locals are known for the warmth and kindness of their hospitality, and it’s not uncommon for locals to offer help or assistance. When you’re visiting religious sites like churches or monasteries, you may be expected to cover your heads and wear modest clothing. This is part of the country’s strong Orthodox Christian traditions, which remain influential.
Travel essentials for Georgia
In this section we will look at a range of other things to consider when traveling to Georgia as a solo female traveler.
Georgia plugs
Georgia uses Type C and Type F sockets. Type C is the two-pronged plug with round pins, commonly used in Europe. Type F, also known as the “Schuko” plug, has two round pins with two earth clips on the sides for grounding. This type of plug is similar to the one used in Germany and other European countries.
The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, which is typical for most European countries. If you’re traveling from countries that use a different voltage (like the U.S. with 110V), you’ll need a voltage converter or adapter to avoid damaging your electronics.
Staying connected: Public free WiFi
Staying connected in Georgia is pretty easy, and there is free public WiFi throughout most of the country. Especially in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi, you can connect at cafes, restaurants and in public spaces.
The Georgia Broadband Program provides a statewide map highlighting locations with free public Wi-Fi, including those offered by telecommunications providers and government agencies. If you’re connecting to an unsecured, open network, secure your connection by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network – essential for internet safety).
The WiFi speed is good in urban areas, but as you travel more rurally, the connection does become more spotty. Mobile data in Georgia though is otherwise quite affordable, and you can pick up a SIM card at the airport, or at the local shops. This would be the best choice if you’re heading into the mountains, as most prepaid plans have good rural coverage.
Money and Currency
Georgia uses the Georgian Lari (GEL), and this has been the official currency since 1995 when it replaced the Soviet ruble. That said, U.S. dollars and Euros are easily exchanged for local currency.
Cash is still very common in Georgia, and some smaller shops, especially in rural areas, may operate on a cash-only basis, so it’s definitely worthwhile having cash on you, especially when heading out of the main cities.
Credit cards: Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in larger urban areas and tourist spots and business. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are becoming increasingly popular, though as we said, cash is still King in Georgia, and credit cards may not be accepted in rural shops, cafes, or in markets.
ATMs are available pretty consistently within Georgia, especially in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. They’re in shopping malls, airports, hotels, and near popular tourist attractions, and most will accept major international cards like Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro so that you can withdraw Georgian Lari.
When you get into remote areas or smaller villages, ATMs become less available, so it’s worthwhile taking out all the cash you think you’ll need in the cities. Rural ATMs also have withdrawal limits and higher fees, so you do need to plan accordingly.
Basic Georgian words to know
The official language of Georgia is Georgian (ქართული, Kartuli). This is a unique language which has its own script, and while most locals do speak English or Russian, it’s a good starting point to learn a few words before you go.
- Hello – Gamarjoba (გამარჯობა)
- Good morning – Dila mshvidobisa (დილა მშვიდობისა)
- Good afternoon – Tsvetveli da gverdi (ცვენებელი და გევრიდი)
- Good evening – Kveshili (ქვეშილი)
- Good night – Gvtsunebuli (გვანშემესი)
- Thank you – Madloba (მადლობა)
- You’re welcome – Raimezebuli (რაიმზეილური)
- Please / Help – Tqvenikhi (თქვენიკჰი)
- Sorry / Excuse me – Bari (ბარი)
- Excuse me (to pass by someone) – Qwavisht khar? (კვეინკითხე
Local Cuisine
Because Georgia sits on a crossroads between Europe and Asia, and with an extremely rich and ancient past, the food you’ll taste is an amazing blend of flavors, textures and history not found anywhere else.
The cuisine throughout Georgia is very much rooted in ancient traditions, and is influenced by the diverse geography of the region; mountains, valleys and coastal regions all contribute to a food scene that is focused around fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Meals are based around earthy vegetables, and meats cooked in strong herbs and spices.
Here are a few dishes you have to try on your visit to Georgia.
Best Foods to try in Georgia
Georgia is a paradise for foodies and food lovers and there are many regional varieties that we will devour during our trip.
Food is fresh, uses lots of vegetables, nuts and legumes and includes plenty of bread and cheese.
Khachapuri is a Cheese-Filled Bread, the quintessential Georgian comfort food. It has a golden, crispy crust, and the cheese filling (usually sulguni and feta) basically melts in your mouth.
The dough is soft and slightly chewy, and you may have seen this on Instagram topped with an egg. It’s one of those dishes in every Instagram feed, especially on a chilly day in Tbilisi.
The most famous regional variation of this is the Adjarian Khachapuri, where the bread is boat-shaped and filled with cheese, butter, and a raw egg in the center.
Khinkali are Georgian Dumplings, filled with seasoned minced meat. It’s often beef and pork, sometimes lamb, also full of a rich broth that, (warning), bursts in your mouth (be careful not to burn yourself).
The dough itself is pretty thick but tender, and there are usually subtle spices, garlic, and sometimes fresh herbs. This was originally a practical, portable meal for workers in Georgia’s mountains. To eat it like a local, twist off the top of the dough, sip the broth, and then devour the rest.
Satsivi is Chicken stew in walnut sauce. The chicken is tender and succulent, and the sauce is made from finely ground walnuts, garlic, and spices. There’s usually the addition of coriander and a touch of chili, so you get hit with savory, slightly sweet, and spiced flavors. You often eat this cold as part of holidays, and it can be made with turkey or duck instead of chicken.
Mtsvadi is Georgian Shashlik, which is marinated meat on a skewer cooked over an open flame. The meat is pork, beef, or lamb, marinated in garlic, onions, and herbs, then grilled until it’s crispy. The flavor is smoky from the grill, and it’s served with a side of fresh vegetables and a chunk of flatbread.
Lobio is Bean Stew which is a normal part of everyday life in an average Georgian home. It’s made with red kidney beans, onions, garlic, and a mix of Georgian spices and served with puri (Georgian bread), it’s the ultimate in comfort food.
This is a vegetarian-friendly dish if you’re looking for a meat-free meal and can be varied to be made with smoked meats, or even boiled eggs.
Churchkhela is a fruit and nut sweet snack that is very popular in Georgia and you will find it across all markets. It is made by repeatedly dipping a string of nuts (usually walnuts or hazelnuts) into a thickened grape juice mixture and then drying them. We will get to make this with the local grandmas during our Georgina trip.
Best drinks to try in Georgia
Georgia is also home to many local drinks worth trying.
Georgian Wine
Wine is the reason many people visit; The country has been making wine for over 8,000 years, and it’s home to the world’s oldest wine cellar.
Wines are made using ancient traditional methods, including fermenting grapes in large clay vessels called qvevris that are buried underground, which give the wine a distinct earthy flavor, and local varieties of grapes that aren’t grown anywhere else.
Georgian wines are known for their rich, unique flavors that are completely different from other regions. The wines here will be dry reds with deep berry flavors like Saperavi, or fruity whites like Tsinandali.
Chacha
Chacha is Georgian Brandy, comparable to grappa in Italy. It’s a strong, clear spirit that they make from the leftover skins, seeds, and stems of grapes. You’re looking at around 40-60% alcohol, so a sip will warm you from the inside out.
The taste is earthy and fruity, and its smoothness can vary depending on the distillery, and how refined or rustic the label is and the flavour, usually fruit-based.
Most distilleries have unique recipes that have been handed down through generations of family.
Tarkhuna
This is Georgian soda, it’s bright green and it tastes like tarragon, which, trust us, is an acquired taste. It’s a sweet, licorice-like taste that locals throw back as a cool drink on a hot day. And despite it being a Soviet-era creation, it’s still drunk widely today.
Kefir
This fermented milk drink is similar to yogurt but thinner in consistency, and has a slightly sour and tangy taste. It’s creamy but not overly rich, and it can be enjoyed plain or flavored. It’s rich in probiotics so Georgians usually include it with their breakfast. Some families still make their own kefir at home.
Borjomi
This local brand of mineral water is naturally carbonated and specifically from the Caucasus Mountains. It has a salty taste, and it’s considered to be a tonic because of the natural minerals. It does have a slightly metallic taste, but it’s still very refreshing.
Movies about or set in Georgia
To get you in the mood and immerse you in the local culture, we have selected a list of movies to watch and books to read.
1. Tbilisi, I Love You (2014): A romantic drama set in the streets of Tbilisi. Its multiple storylines follow people from different walks of life, all connected by the city. There are brief encounters and deeply personal stories, and it’s a great introduction to the city and its architecture, culture, and atmosphere.
2. The Other Bank (2009): During the 1990s Georgian-Abkhaz conflict, The Other Bank follows the story of a young boy, Soso, who becomes separated from his father during the war. The film explores his journey through war-torn landscapes as he searches for his family, while also providing a poignant look at the impact of conflict on children and families.
3. Mimino (1977): Soviet-era comedy that tells the story of a Georgian pilot named Vardan who is sent on a mission from his remote village to Moscow. This is a classic piece of Georgian cinema, and it’s an interesting window into Georgian culture and the relationship between Georgia and Russia during the Soviet period.
4. City of Shadows (2013): Set in Tbilisi, City of Shadows is a dark, noir-inspired thriller that goes into the criminal underworld of the city. It follows a former police detective who uncovers a conspiracy and it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the darker side of Georgia’s capital.
Books about or set in Georgia
There are a couple of books worth reading before your trip:
1. “The Georgian Bride” by T.J. Jones: A young woman from Georgia is forced into an arranged marriage with a man she doesn’t love. As she navigates her new life and the expectations placed upon her, she begins to question the traditional customs of her culture and her role within them. The book explores Georgian culture, family dynamics, and the role of women in a modern world while providing a personal, intimate look into the life of a Georgian bride. It’s perfect for anyone curious about Georgian traditions and social norms.
2. “The Mountain” by Varlam Shalamov: Russian writer Varlam Shalamov explores the lives of exiles and prisoners in Soviet Georgia, including the emotional and physical toll of political imprisonment. It’s set in the harsh landscape of Georgia’s mountains and is an essential read if you’re interested in the intersection of Georgia’s history and the broader Soviet experience.