Introduction Exploring Georgia by car is hands-down the best way to experience the incredible nature and rich culture of this amazing country. In just a single day, you can trade the busy streets of Tbilisi for the winding mountain roads of the Caucasus or hit the Black Sea coast. Driving gives you total freedom—you can stop at a roadside café for homemade khachapuri, explore small villages known for their wine, or just pull over and enjoy breathtaking views from scenic overlooks. Below, we’ll go over some popular routes from Tbilisi and Batumi, talk about road conditions across different regions, help you pick the right car, and cover essential car rental tips. Stick around for some handy travel hacks to make your journey comfortable and safe.
Trips from Tbilisi
Tbilisi to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) via the Georgian Military Highway
This route takes you north from the capital along the famous Georgian Military Highway—a historic road that cuts across the Greater Caucasus mountains. It passes through stunning gorges and mountain passes and is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the country. The distance is roughly 150 km (around 3 hours), but you’ll definitely want to set aside extra time—there’s so much to see along the way!
Your first must-stop location is the ancient Ananuri fortress on the turquoise shores of the Zhinvali Reservoir. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, climb the towers, and snap some amazing photos against the backdrop of water and mountains.
From there, the road starts winding upward, passing through Gudauri, a famous ski resort. In summer, you’ll see lush green slopes dotted with grazing horses, while winter turns it into a snowy paradise for skiers.
The highest point of your drive is the Jvari Pass (around 7,860 feet above sea level). Take your time—the views are incredible, but the mountain road is twisty. A popular spot to stop is the Friendship Monument, a stone structure offering panoramic views of the gorge.
The final destination is Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi), located at the foot of the majestic Mount Kazbek. From here, you’ll see the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church perched on a hilltop (you can hike up or rent a 4×4 to reach it).
The road from Tbilisi to Kazbegi is fully paved, but be aware of some specifics: winter weather can bring snow and ice, occasionally closing the road due to avalanches or heavy snowfall. In summer, expect mountain fog and heavy truck traffic, as this route is also a major road toward the Russian border. However, in good weather, the drive is perfectly manageable in a standard passenger car—just be cautious on those sharp turns and enjoy the incredible scenery without rushing.
Tbilisi – Batumi (Through Central Georgia)
Driving from the capital to the coast is one of the most popular road trips, crossing the country from east to west. It’s about 370 km and takes roughly 5–6 hours along the modern E60 highway, connecting Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi. Most of the route features good quality asphalt, with some sections being divided highways.
Leaving Tbilisi, the first 100 km run through the plains and hills of Kartli, past the ancient capital Mtskheta and the city of Gori. You might consider detours: in Mtskheta, check out Svetitskhoveli Cathedral or Jvari Monastery on a hill, and in Gori, visit Stalin’s museum or the nearby cave city Uplistsikhe.
Next, the route climbs through the Rikoti Pass, a key passage between Eastern and Western Georgia. Recent improvements include a new tunnel and updated roads, making the drive much easier. After descending from the pass, you’ll enter the green western region of Imereti. Kutaisi marks roughly the midpoint and is ideal for a rest stop. Here you can grab a bite, explore Bagrati Cathedral, or visit the Prometheus Cave if you have extra time.
From Kutaisi, continue west through Samtredia toward the Colchis plain. As you approach the coast, you’ll notice the shift to a more humid subtropical climate, with palm trees appearing on the horizon. The last stretch involves heading south from Zugdidi or Poti towards Batumi. Some travelers prefer the Poti route to enjoy views along the Black Sea coast, passing beaches like Ureki and Shekvetili, known for their magnetic sand. Alternatively, you can turn from Samtredia to Zugdidi and take the ring road—also smooth asphalt. Both paths converge near the seaside town of Kobuleti, leaving just about half an hour’s drive to Batumi along the sea.
The Tbilisi–Batumi route is fully paved, but watch out for speed cameras and police patrols on the E60 highway. Slow down when entering towns, as speed bumps are common, sometimes without warning signs. Expect heavier traffic near the coast, especially in summer, and watch for cows or pigs suddenly stepping onto rural roads.
Tbilisi – Kakheti (Wine Route)
Wine lovers and fans of scenic valleys should head east from Tbilisi to Kakheti, Georgia’s wine heartland. Two main routes lead there—one through Telavi and another via Sighnaghi. You can easily combine both into a loop.
Route 1: Tbilisi – Telavi (via Gombori)
Starting from Tbilisi, you’ll briefly follow the Georgian Military Highway, then quickly turn onto the scenic Gombori Pass. The road is winding but paved well, passing through wooded mountains with fantastic views over the Alazani Valley. About 1.5–2 hours later, you’ll reach Telavi, Kakheti’s administrative hub. Surrounded by vineyards, Telavi offers sights like King Erekle II’s palace and a vibrant market selling local wines, cheeses, and churchkhela. From Telavi, popular day trips include Ikalto Monastery, the historic Alaverdi Academy, or deeper exploration into vineyard territory. Roads around Telavi are generally paved, though narrow in spots—slow down through villages.
Route 2: Tbilisi – Sighnaghi
Another way into Kakheti runs southward past Gurjaani to the picturesque hilltop town of Sighnaghi (about 125 km). This road is fully paved and slightly simpler than the Gombori route, suitable for all vehicles. Known as the “city of love,” Sighnaghi is encircled by fortress walls, offering panoramic views over the vast Alazani Valley. Enjoy strolling its charming streets, grabbing coffee, and soaking in the Italian-inspired vibe. On your way, stop at Bodbe Monastery, home to Saint Nino’s relics and a beautiful garden.
Returning from Kakheti to Tbilisi, travelers often take the straightforward road through Gurjaani and Gombori Pass if they haven’t driven it yet. All major roads connecting Tbilisi, Telavi, and Sighnaghi are paved, though remote winery villages might have gravel sections. Before heading off-road to remote wineries, double-check conditions or ask locals if your car can handle it—dirt roads can turn muddy after rain.
Other Trips from Tbilisi
Apart from the popular routes to Kazbek, the coast, or Kakheti, there are other exciting directions to explore from Tbilisi:
Tbilisi – Borjomi – Vardzia
Heading southwest from Tbilisi, this route covers around 160 km to the famous resort town of Borjomi along a well-maintained highway passing through Gori. In Borjomi, you can stop by the picturesque gorge and stroll through the renowned mineral water park. After Borjomi, the journey continues towards Akhaltsikhe—the main town in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region—and then along the Kura River to reach the remarkable cave monastery of Vardzia. The road from Borjomi to Vardzia is mostly paved, but expect a few rough patches and potholes, so drive carefully. Highlights along this route include dramatic rock formations, canyons, the historic Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe, and of course, the incredible cave city of Vardzia itself. From Akhaltsikhe, there’s also an option to loop northward through a mountain pass to Kutaisi or even link back to the Georgian Military Highway, making it a perfect circular road trip through the country.
Tbilisi – Bakuriani
If mountain resorts are your thing, consider heading west from Tbilisi for about 180 km to Bakuriani, a charming alpine village. Initially sharing the road with the Borjomi route, it later veers off into the mountains. The roads are paved, but the final stretch involves winding mountain roads. In winter, Bakuriani is popular for skiing, while in summer it’s great for escaping the heat, enjoying cool mountain air, and hiking through alpine meadows.
Both routes are ideal for self-driving adventures, though careful time planning is essential. For example, traveling to Vardzia is best done over two days, with an overnight stay in Borjomi or Akhaltsikhe, as a round trip in one day can be exhausting. Aim to travel during daylight to safely navigate mountain roads.
Trips from Batumi
Batumi – Tbilisi (via Coast and Western Georgia)
Returning from Batumi to the capital via Kutaisi is just as scenic as the outward journey, but you’ll start your day by the sea and end among the rolling hills of Eastern Georgia. The advice remains the same: stick to speed limits and take breaks along the way. Leaving early allows you to enjoy lunch in Kutaisi or visit attractions you may have missed previously. For example, start your day with a morning swim, and by noon explore caves near Kutaisi.
An alternative route is through the mountainous Goderdzi Pass. This challenging option suits experienced travelers looking for adventure. From Batumi, the road heads east through Adjara, climbing towards the small town of Khulo. Along the way, visit Makhuntseti Waterfall and the ancient stone Queen Tamar Bridge—perfect stops to experience Adjara’s mountain charm. The ascent to Goderdzi Pass (around 6,560 feet) features a mix of paved and gravel roads with steep, tight curves. The pass is typically closed in winter and requires caution in summer. After descending, you’ll reach Akhaltsikhe, from where paved roads lead to Borjomi or directly east to Tbilisi. This route is technically demanding (8–9 hours to Tbilisi) and best tackled with a reliable SUV and mountain driving experience. But it’s rewarding, offering unforgettable views, remote villages, hanging bridges, and herds grazing on mountain slopes.
Batumi – Svaneti (to Mestia and Ushguli)
From subtropical Batumi, drive northward to the high Caucasus mountains in Svaneti. First head along the coast toward Zugdidi (about 150 km). The route is smooth and paved, passing coastal resorts like Kobuleti and Ureki—ideal spots to swim or visit Kolkheti National Park near Poti. From Zugdidi, stop at Dadiani Palace before heading into the mountains.
From Zugdidi to Mestia is a 130 km mountain road along the Inguri River, taking around 3 hours. It’s fully paved but narrow and twisty, requiring careful driving. Scenery shifts dramatically, with traditional Svan towers appearing in villages and snowy peaks of Ushba and Tetnuldi rising ahead. Mestia feels like another world, full of medieval towers and crisp mountain air, serving as a base for trekking and exploration.
If you’re up for more adventure, continue about 45 km to Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest inhabited villages. The route used to be challenging—rocky, rough terrain—but recent improvements mean it’s mostly paved now, though still rough in places. Dry conditions make it doable in regular cars, but rainy weather or landslides require a capable 4×4 vehicle. Roads here are narrow, cliffside, and demand skilled driving. If unsure, hiring a local jeep driver from Mestia is common and recommended. Ushguli is stunning, with medieval towers against Mount Shkhara’s glacier backdrop. You’ll return from Svaneti by the same road through Zugdidi.
Coastal Trips from Batumi
If you’re based in Batumi and looking to explore the Black Sea coast, you have several options. A short drive south (about 15 km) leads to the Turkish border at Sarpi. This picturesque road hugs the coast, featuring dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. Stop at Gonio Fortress, a Roman-era site perfect for exploring ancient walls and nearby beaches. Even if you don’t cross into Turkey, this short drive is a scenic escape.
Going north from Batumi, in about 25 km you’ll reach Kobuleti, a quieter beach resort. The coastal highway between Batumi and Kobuleti passes palm-lined parks and beaches, inviting spontaneous stops. Further north lie small towns like Makhinjauri, Ureki, and Grigoleti, each unique—Ureki famous for its therapeutic black magnetic sand.
The road along the coast is mostly smooth asphalt, but it passes busy villages with pedestrians and roadside markets, requiring careful driving. Continuing northward, within 1.5 hours from Batumi, you’ll reach the port city of Poti, near the Colchis National Park and Lake Paliastomi. From Poti, you can turn northwest to Zugdidi, covering the full accessible Georgian coastline (the route further north to Abkhazia is currently closed due to political circumstances).
A coastal drive is relaxing—there are minimal elevation changes, many beaches, seaside parks, and fresh seafood cafes along the way. Consider overnight stops in different resort towns to maximize relaxation. Roads along the coast are in generally good condition, though summer traffic and frequent speed reductions through villages are expected.
Road Conditions and Challenging Sections
Main highways Most major highways in Georgia (such as Tbilisi–Batumi, Tbilisi–Kazbegi, Tbilisi–Telavi) are paved and in relatively good shape. Many have been upgraded recently, becoming wider and faster—like the S1/E60 from Tbilisi to Batumi, parts of which now resemble modern four-lane highways. However, certain stretches, particularly around city exits or old mountain passes, can still be rough, especially due to heavy truck traffic or ongoing roadworks. Generally, any standard passenger car can comfortably handle main routes.
Mountain roads Once you leave the main highways toward mountainous areas, expect narrower, winding roads. Often, mountain villages feature single-lane roads in each direction with little to no shoulder, occasionally bordered by steep drops with minimal guardrails. Asphalt gives way to gravel or concrete slabs in remote areas. A prime example is the route to Tusheti, particularly to Omalo village via the Abano Pass (around 10,000 ft). It’s one of Georgia’s most challenging roads—unpaved, narrow, and steep, with cliffs on one side and sheer drops on the other. It’s navigable only by skilled drivers in 4×4 vehicles, and even then, it’s inaccessible during winter and risky in other seasons. Rental companies typically forbid driving their cars into Tusheti; most travelers hire local drivers with specialized off-road vehicles.
Fortunately, such extreme routes are rare exceptions. Many popular mountain destinations have good asphalt access—for instance, the road to Mestia in Svaneti and the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi. Roads to popular national parks and scenic villages like Juta are improving but may still include short gravel sections manageable by careful driving in higher-clearance vehicles.
Gravel roads and roadworks Road conditions can vary dramatically along a single route—smooth pavement may suddenly shift to damaged sections due to landslides or construction. Such conditions are common in mountainous regions. Always check the current road status with locals or online forums, especially for less-traveled routes. During summer, expect roadworks, temporary traffic controls, or delays.
Mountain passes and seasonality Seasonality greatly impacts travel conditions. High-altitude passes like Goderdzi, Cross Pass (Georgian Military Highway), and Abano (Tusheti) may close entirely during winter due to snow and avalanche risk. Even if open, proper winter gear—snow tires or chains—is essential, and it’s best to avoid them in bad weather. In summer, heavy rains and thunderstorms pose risks, potentially causing washouts or mudslides, making even 4×4 vehicles struggle. Always check weather forecasts before venturing into remote mountain areas.
Road signs and markings Major Georgian roads feature signs in both Georgian and English, making navigation straightforward. Road markings, such as lane lines, are common on highways but may be absent in rural or mountainous areas. Drive cautiously—local drivers sometimes take risky maneuvers, like overtaking on blind curves or crossing solid lines. Speed cameras are common, especially around towns, and fines are automatically enforced. If you’re renting a car, these fines could be deducted from your deposit, so adhere strictly to traffic laws.
Choosing Your Vehicle: Passenger Car or SUV?
Your choice of vehicle depends largely on your travel plans:
Passenger car: Suitable if you’re mainly traveling between major cities or popular tourist sites. Most attractions are accessible via paved roads, and compact cars make navigating cities like Tbilisi and Batumi easier due to narrow streets and tight parking spaces.
SUV or crossover:
Recommended if your itinerary includes mountainous areas or remote villages. SUVs provide higher ground clearance, better suspension, and four-wheel drive, making rough and gravel roads significantly easier. For routes like Svaneti (especially Ushguli), Kazbegi surroundings (Truso Gorge, Juta village), and other mountain adventures, an SUV or crossover is highly advisable.
Extreme destinations:
For very challenging routes like Tusheti or off-road national parks (e.g., Vashlovani), a rugged 4×4 vehicle is practically essential. However, this requires experience in extreme driving conditions.
Summer vs winter:
Roads are generally easier in summer and autumn, allowing passenger cars to reach many locations during dry conditions. In winter, ensure your rental car has proper winter tires or chains, especially if traveling into mountainous areas.
Budget vs comfort:
Standard cars are cheaper to rent and more fuel-efficient. SUVs, while more expensive, provide greater comfort and capability on rough roads. Medium-sized crossovers offer a good balance—affordable but capable enough for most Georgian roads.
Group size and luggage:
Consider vehicle size based on your group’s needs. Small cars might be uncomfortable for large groups or families with luggage. For more space, choose a larger sedan, SUV, or even a minivan (popular among locals with experienced drivers).
Ultimately, your choice should match your planned route and comfort preferences, ensuring a safe and enjoyable Georgian road trip.
Car Rental in Georgia: Tips and Recommendations
If you’re flying into Georgia without your own car, renting one is the best way to explore. In big cities and tourist spots, finding a rental is easy—plenty of options for every budget. Here’s what you need to know:
Where to Rent:
The best places to pick up a rental car are typically Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi, cities with international airports. At Tbilisi and Batumi airports, well-known international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have desks right inside the terminals. It’s super convenient to grab your car right after landing, saving time on city transfers. Plus, many local companies offer airport delivery if you book in advance.
If you’re already downtown, you can rent from offices in city centers. In Tbilisi, you’ll find many rental agencies around Rustaveli Avenue and the Old Town area. In Batumi, most rentals are in the tourist zones near the waterfront.
International companies offer reliable service and clear insurance conditions, but they’re pricier. Local rentals (like Getmancar, RACE, LocalRent, MyRentacar, and plenty of smaller outfits) often give better prices and a more casual vibe. Many have Russian-speaking staff, making communication easier. Either way, check reviews to ensure you’re picking a trustworthy provider.
Required Documents:
You’ll typically need your driver’s license (Russian or international—Georgia accepts national licenses if they’re in Latin characters with your photo), a passport, and a credit card for a deposit. Drivers usually must be over 21 years old with at least 1-2 years of driving experience, but double-check these details when booking.
Insurance:
In Georgia, most rentals include basic insurance and minimal collision coverage (CDW) with a deductible. It’s wise to get enhanced coverage (full CDW with zero deductible), especially if you plan on tackling mountain roads. Mountain driving is unpredictable—rocks hitting the car or scraping the underside can easily happen. Full coverage may cost extra, but it’ll save you money and stress if anything goes wrong. Thoroughly inspect and photograph your car before leaving the rental lot to avoid disputes when returning it.
Costs:
Prices depend on car type and season. Summer, peak tourist season, is pricier; winter is cheaper. On average, a small sedan or hatchback goes for about €30-40/day, SUVs are around €50-70/day, and full-size off-roaders start from €80 upwards. Renting for longer periods (a week or more) usually gets you discounts. Gas prices in Georgia are similar to or slightly lower than Russia, good news for road trippers. There are plenty of gas stations along main roads, but in remote areas, they’re scarce. Plan fuel stops carefully—for example, fill up completely in Zugdidi before heading into Svaneti since mountain routes won’t have gas stations.
Rental Tips:
Check mileage policies (usually unlimited, but verify to avoid surprises) and border-crossing restrictions (typically not allowed without special permission—don’t count on driving a Georgian rental into Turkey without prior arrangement and additional fees). Almost all rental companies forbid travel to Abkhazia and South Ossetia since these territories are effectively closed from the Georgian side anyway. Some companies explicitly restrict travel to rough roads like Tusheti, Ushguli, and Goderdzi. If caught driving in prohibited areas, your insurance might become invalid. While tracking isn’t common, responsibility is fully yours if something happens off-limits. Clarify tricky routes beforehand—some companies might offer written permission or recommend suitable vehicles for an additional fee.
Finding Better Deals:
Aggregator websites can help you compare prices from multiple rental providers in Georgia. Apart from RACE (Georgia-specific), MyRentacar (focusing on Georgia and neighboring countries), and Localrent, global services like Getmancar (carsharing and car rental service in Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, and Germany), Rentalcars, and DiscoverCars also often feature local firms. Booking early, especially for summer travel, ensures better selection and availability.
Nice Bonus:
Georgia often doesn’t charge high fees for an extra driver or child seat—many companies provide these extras free. Just ask when booking!
Useful Life Hacks for a Comfortable and Safe Road Trip
If you’re heading out on a road trip in Georgia, here are some tips that’ll make your journey smoother and more enjoyable:
- Plan Your Route, But Stay Flexible: Having a car means it’s easy to stray from your plan if something cool catches your eye—a beautiful viewpoint or an intriguing local signpost. Some of the best memories come from spontaneous stops, like a small family-run winery or a hidden waterfall recommended by locals. Add extra time into your itinerary for these spontaneous adventures. But still, each day think ahead about where you’ll spend the night so you don’t end up tired and searching for accommodation after dark.
- Download Offline Maps: Mobile internet can be unreliable in mountains and remote villages. Before you head out, download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me, or another app) for the areas you’ll visit. This way, you won’t get lost if the connection drops. A paper map is also a great backup—pick one up at tourist info centers in Tbilisi or at airports.
- Keep an Eye on Fuel: Gas stations are common along main roads, but if you’re heading off the beaten path, fill up early. Don’t risk running low. Mountain villages may not have gas stations at all. Occasionally locals sell fuel from cans, but the quality and price can be questionable. Better to have enough gas in the tank. Also, be aware that gas stations in certain areas (like Javakheti plateau or the Akhaltsikhe–Vardzia road at night) might not operate 24/7, so plan accordingly.
- Snacks and Water for the Road: Bringing along snacks and bottled water is always smart. You’ll get thirsty, especially during hot summers or at high elevations where the air is thinner. You’ll find cafes and shops in towns along the way, but distances between them can be long. Fruits, nuts, and dried fruits are great local snacks you can stock up on before hitting the road.
- Watch Out for Animals on the Road: We mentioned cows before, but it bears repeating: animals freely roaming on Georgian roads are common. Cows often act like they own the place, especially in the evenings when they’re returning from pasture. You might also encounter sheep or pigs crossing the road. It’s cute, but be extra careful on bends—there might be an unexpected furry roadblock around the corner. Keep your speed low, honking rarely helps, just patiently drive around or wait until the road clears.
- Communicating with Locals: Not everyone in rural areas speaks English, but many understand Russian, especially older generations. Learning a few basic Russian phrases could help when asking for directions or advice. Younger people often speak English. Regardless, Georgians are famously welcoming—even if they don’t understand your language, they’ll do their best to help through gestures or find someone to translate. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions; you might learn something interesting along the way.
- Music and Connectivity: Playing your favorite tunes is perfect for long drives. Make sure to bring a cable or confirm Bluetooth availability in your rental car to connect your phone to the audio system. Radio reception in the mountains is spotty, so your playlist will save the day. Also, consider getting a local SIM card for better internet and phone coverage across Georgia—it’s cheaper than roaming. Providers like Magti, Geocell, or Beeline offer affordable tourist packages.
- Driving Skills and Road Rules: Traffic in Georgian cities, especially Tbilisi, can feel chaotic. Drivers might cut you off, honk excessively, or drive aggressively—don’t copy them. Follow the rules, stay calm, and if someone impatiently honks behind you, just let them pass. Don’t get pulled into competitive driving on highways; let those in a hurry overtake. Take your time and drive safely.
- Parking Tips: In big cities, parking can be tricky. Central parking in Tbilisi usually requires payment via SMS or an app—ask your rental company how to handle this, or choose private lots. In Batumi, during peak season, parking spots near the beach fill up quickly. Overnight, especially in unfamiliar cities, look for secure parking areas or leave your car at your accommodation.
- Emergency Situations: Make sure your rental company provides emergency contact numbers in case of breakdowns—they typically respond quickly with assistance or mechanic recommendations. If an accident occurs, dial 112 immediately. For minor incidents without injuries, you could use the European Accident Statement (friendly settlement), but tourists generally find it easier to call 112 and wait for a police officer.
Enjoy the Ride! Most importantly, enjoy every moment on the road! Georgia’s incredible scenery and the freedom of driving yourself makes every detour worthwhile. Stop on mountain passes, breathe in fresh air, take photos of soaring birds—this freedom truly makes the adventure special.
Taking a road trip through Georgia lets you experience hidden gems inaccessible by other means. Choosing the right vehicle, driving carefully, and respecting local driving customs ensures an amazing trip. Add in Georgian hospitality, fantastic cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, and your journey will be unforgettable. Happy travels!
This article was prepared by our team in collaboration with representatives from Getmancar, a popular European car rental and car-sharing operator.