Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- COVID-19 ENHANCED COVER
- More Options
- Help & Advice
- Existing Customers
Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
Need help?
UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*
Open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6pm, Saturday 8:30am to 4pm and closed Sundays.
*Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes.
Official name: Georgia
Capital city: Tbilisi
Official language: Georgian
Population: Around 3.7 million
Currency: Georgian lari (GEL)
Time zone: GMT+4
Driving side: Right
Climate: Ranges from humid subtropical on the Black Sea coast to alpine in the Caucasus Mountains
Georgia, at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is famed for its dramatic mountain scenery, ancient churches, and wine culture said to date back 8,000 years. The capital, Tbilisi, is a lively blend of history and modernity, while the countryside offers everything from ski resorts to Black Sea beaches. Georgian hospitality and unique cuisine make it an increasingly popular travel destination.
Georgia borders Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey, with access to the Black Sea in the west. The Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains dominate its northern and southern frontiers, while central valleys provide fertile farmland. Natural hazards include occasional earthquakes and landslides in mountainous regions.
Tbilisi International Airport is the main gateway, with flights from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Domestic flights link Tbilisi with Batumi and Kutaisi, while rail and marshrutkas (shared minibuses) connect cities and towns. Roads can be poor in rural areas, particularly in winter, and driving requires care. The country is compact, making it easy to combine mountain hikes, cultural sites, and seaside stays in one trip.
UK citizens and many other nationals can enter Georgia visa-free for up to one year. Passports must be valid for the duration of stay. The British Embassy is located in Tbilisi, and most foreign embassies are also based in the capital. Rules can change, so travellers should always confirm entry requirements before departure.
The official currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Credit cards are accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash is preferred in smaller towns and rural regions. ATMs are widely available, though not always outside major centres. Living costs are lower than in Western Europe, but prices in Tbilisi and Batumi are rising with increased tourism.
Healthcare facilities in Tbilisi are generally adequate, but standards drop sharply outside the capital. Emergency services are limited in rural areas. Travellers should have comprehensive travel insurance, including cover for medical evacuation. Tap water quality varies, so bottled water is advisable outside of major cities. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended, and precautions against rabies may be necessary for those spending time in rural areas.
Get travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance Annual multi-trip travel insurance Pre-existing medical conditions Compare travel insuranceSubscribe to our newsletter
For discounts, competitions, news, tips & more.
