In July 2026, we went on an independent family road trip across Georgia. There were three of us: two adults and a 4.5-year-old child.

We arrived in Batumi, spent several days by the Black Sea, rented a car and continued our journey through Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Gori, Vardzia and Borjomi. We then returned to Batumi, where our trip came to an end.

The journey was eventful but still comfortable enough for a family travelling with a young child. Georgia is an excellent destination for an independent road trip, combining the sea, mountains, ancient fortresses, monasteries, large cities, small guesthouses and traditional Georgian cuisine.

Our favourite destinations were Kazbegi, Tbilisi and Batumi. Kazbegi impressed us with its mountains and peaceful atmosphere, Tbilisi with its architecture and walking routes, and Batumi with its seaside promenade and the energy of a modern resort city. However, visitors should be prepared for very heavy traffic in Batumi during the summer season.

Georgia e-Visa: our arrival and departure experience

One of the adults was travelling with an Indonesian passport, so we applied for a Georgia e-Visa before the trip.

We printed the approved electronic visa and carried a paper copy with us. Upon arrival in Georgia, the printed e-Visa was presented together with the passport. We also kept the document ready during our departure from Georgia and presented it when required as part of the travel formalities.

Our entire stay in Georgia went smoothly, without any immigration-related issues. The electronic visa had been obtained in advance, the permitted period of stay was respected, and all supporting documents had been prepared before departure.

We recommend carrying both an electronic version of the visa on your phone and a printed paper copy. A phone can run out of battery, a document may fail to load without an internet connection, and a printed copy can make immigration procedures considerably easier.

In addition to the visa, it is advisable to prepare the following documents before travelling:

• a passport valid for the entire period of travel;
• a printed copy of the Georgia e-Visa;
• return or onward flight tickets;
• accommodation booking confirmations;
• travel medical insurance;
• proof of sufficient financial funds;
• a basic travel itinerary.

Travel medical insurance for Georgia

Travel medical insurance was an essential part of our trip preparation. We purchased the policy before flying to Georgia.

After comparing several options, we selected IRAO Visitor Insurance. At the time of our trip, the cost was approximately 2 Georgian lari per person per day. For two adults and one child travelling for ten days, the total cost was approximately 60 GEL.

The insurance policies were issued electronically. We saved the PDF files on our phones and also printed copies together with our electronic visas and accommodation confirmations.

During immigration procedures, we were asked whether we had medical insurance, although we were not required to show the actual policy. Nevertheless, travellers should not assume that the policy will not be checked. Insurance should be arranged for every traveller and should cover the entire period of stay in Georgia.

The insurance option we used can be purchased through
IRAO Visitor Insurance.

Before purchasing any policy, check the current insurance requirements, minimum coverage and policy conditions applicable to your travel dates.

How we booked flights and accommodation

We reserved all of our main accommodation in advance through Booking.com. This is particularly convenient for a road trip because the complete route can be planned before departure, with a confirmed place to stay at every destination.

However, we paid for all of our accommodation directly at the properties in cash using Georgian lari. We withdrew the cash from local ATMs using an international Mastercard issued by a bank in Indonesia.

Before confirming accommodation, we recommend comparing the same hotel on several booking platforms. In some cases, prices on Trip.com may be similar to Booking.com or even lower.

Using an international bank card in Georgia

Throughout our trip, we paid almost everywhere with an international Mastercard issued by a bank in Indonesia.

The card was accepted without problems at:

• restaurants and cafés;
• supermarkets;
• petrol stations;
• shopping centres and regular shops;
• ticket offices;
• many tourist attractions;
• taxi and other service providers.

It is still important to carry some cash. Cash may be required at small guesthouses, local markets, small cafés, parking areas or places where the card terminal is temporarily unavailable.

We withdrew Georgian lari from local ATMs using our Indonesian Mastercard and used the cash to pay for accommodation at every property along the route.

Which currency should you choose when paying?

When paying by card or withdrawing money from an ATM, it is generally better to select payment in Georgian lari, or GEL.

If an ATM or card terminal offers to convert the payment directly into the currency of your bank card, this may be Dynamic Currency Conversion. The exchange rate offered through this service is often less favourable than the conversion rate applied by Mastercard and the card-issuing bank.

Before travelling, it is also useful to check:

• your bank’s fee for international cash withdrawals;
• your daily cash withdrawal limit;
• your card payment limit;
• whether you need to notify the bank about your trip;
• the exchange rates applied by Mastercard and your bank.

Renting a car in Batumi

We rented our car from Rent2Go Batumi. The office was located at 6 Kobaladze Street, Batumi.

We selected a Jeep Cherokee for the trip. We collected the car in Batumi on 14 July and returned it to the same office on 21 July.

The rental cost for seven days was 350 USD, or approximately 50 USD per day. We also paid a refundable security deposit of 150 USD.

This was the price for our specific rental in July 2026. Current rates may vary depending on the season, rental duration, vehicle model, insurance coverage and additional conditions.

The SUV was a comfortable choice for travelling with a child. The luggage compartment had enough space for suitcases, a stroller and our other belongings, while the vehicle performed confidently on mountain roads.

What are the roads like in Georgia?

The main roads between major cities are generally in good condition. However, mountain areas may include winding roads, steep climbs, roadworks and sections where driving conditions depend heavily on the weather.

Particular care is required on the Georgian Military Highway towards Gudauri and Kazbegi. This road has numerous bends, heavy truck traffic and scenic viewpoints where tourists may unexpectedly step close to the roadway.

Heavy traffic should also be expected in Tbilisi and Batumi. Parking can be difficult in central Tbilisi, while summer traffic congestion in Batumi can affect even relatively small streets.

Fuel

We used 95-octane petrol for the rental car. There are enough petrol stations along the main roads, but it is better not to enter mountain areas with an almost empty tank.

On our return journey from Vardzia, we purchased approximately 45 litres of fuel at a Gulf petrol station near Akhaltsikhe so that we could return the vehicle with the required fuel level.

Our Georgia road trip itinerary

Days 1–2: Batumi

We spent the first two days after arrival in Batumi without a rental car. This was a convenient decision because it allowed us to check in, recover after the flight, walk along the seaside promenade and become familiar with the city.

The central part of Batumi is easy to explore on foot, by city bus or by taxi. During the summer season, using a private car in the city centre is not always practical because of traffic congestion and limited parking.

During our stay in Batumi, we walked along the promenade, visited city parks, explored the main attractions and went to the Batumi Dolphinarium with our child.

Places to visit in Batumi:

• Europe Square;
• Ali and Nino Statue;
• Batumi Seafront Promenade;
• 6 May Park;
• Argo Cable Car;
• Batumi Dolphinarium;
• Piazza Square;
• Batumi Old Town.

The seafront promenade and 6 May Park are especially convenient for families with children. There is plenty of space for walking, as well as green areas, playgrounds and various children’s activities.

Where to eat in Batumi

• Khinkali Restaurant;
• Dona Bakery & Sweet.

At the beginning of the trip, we stayed at Hotel Homeland. After completing our road trip, we stayed at Apart Voyage, which offered convenient parking.

Apart Voyage on Google Maps

Another accommodation option worth comparing is:

Le Port Apart Hotel on Google Maps

Day 3: Batumi — Georgia in Miniatures Park — Tbilisi

In the morning, we collected our rental car from Rent2Go and departed from Batumi towards Tbilisi.

Our first stop was Georgia in Miniatures Park. The park features miniature versions of famous Georgian churches, monasteries, fortresses and other architectural landmarks.

It is a convenient stop for families travelling with a child. Everyone can get out of the car, take a short walk and learn more about the architecture of different regions of Georgia.

After visiting the park, we continued the journey, stopped for lunch near Samtredia and arrived in Tbilisi in the evening.

The drive from Batumi to Tbilisi takes up a significant part of the day. When travelling with a young child, it is better not to schedule a large sightseeing programme immediately after arrival.

Days 4–5: Tbilisi

Tbilisi became one of the highlights of our journey. It is an excellent city to explore without a strict plan, moving between historic streets, modern districts, small parks, viewpoints and cafés.

Main places to add to your Tbilisi itinerary:

• The Clock Tower at the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theatre;
• Giorgi Leonidze Park;
• Dry Bridge Market;
• Bridge of Peace;
• Rike Park;
• Tbilisi Old Town;
• Narikala Fortress;
• Chronicle of Georgia Monument.

We also recommend taking the cable car from Rike Park towards Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia monument.

Tbilisi Cable Car on Google Maps

The cable car ride is an enjoyable attraction for children, while adults can admire views over the Old Town and the Kura River.

Where to eat in Tbilisi

• Sofiko;
• Kvarts Coffee;
• Lumiers Chimney Cake.

In Tbilisi, we first stayed at Atlant Hotel. After returning from Kazbegi, we stayed at Old Tbilisi Gate. Both properties were booked in advance through Booking.com.

• Atlant Hotel on Google Maps;
• Old Tbilisi Gate on Google Maps.

Another centrally located accommodation option to compare is:

Taberne Boutique Hotel Tbilisi

Day 6: Tbilisi — Zhinvali Reservoir — Ananuri — Gudauri — Kazbegi

The drive from Tbilisi to Kazbegi was the most scenic part of our entire road trip.

The route follows the Georgian Military Highway through a reservoir, an ancient fortress, mountain passes and panoramic viewpoints.

Main stops along the route:

• Zhinvali Reservoir;
• Ananuri Fortress Complex;
• Gudauri Friendship Monument and Viewpoint;
• the mountain passes of the Georgian Military Highway;
• Stepantsminda and Kazbegi.

Ananuri Fortress can be explored without a long guided tour. The complex is relatively compact, and its walls offer beautiful views over Zhinvali Reservoir.

For lunch or a short stop along the way, consider:

Pasanauri Restaurant

It is better to allocate the entire day for the journey to Kazbegi. There are many places where you may want to stop for photographs and mountain views. Weather conditions can also change quickly.

Day 7: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church

Kazbegi was the strongest impression of the entire trip. The atmosphere is completely different from the larger cities, with cool mountain air, green slopes, low clouds and an incredible sense of open space.

The main attraction in the area is Gergeti Trinity Church, located high above Stepantsminda.

Gergeti Trinity Church on Google Maps

The church can be reached with a suitable vehicle or by using a local transfer service. Before driving up, check the road and weather conditions.

In Kazbegi, we stayed at Hotel & Cottages Mountain View. The accommodation was booked through Booking.com and paid for in cash at the property.

Hotel & Cottages Mountain View on Google Maps

Kazbegi was the destination that made us want to return to Georgia most, perhaps during another season.

Day 8: Kazbegi — Tbilisi — Gori

After spending the night in Stepantsminda, we returned along the Georgian Military Highway towards Tbilisi and then continued to Gori.

One of the main places we visited in the city was the Stalin Museum.

Stalin Museum in Gori

Regardless of one’s personal view of the historical figure, the museum is an interesting example of a major Soviet-era institution. The complex includes the museum exhibition, the house where Stalin was born and his personal railway carriage.

In Gori, we stayed at Family Hotel Gori, which we had booked in advance through Booking.com.

Family Hotel Gori on Google Maps

Additional places near Gori and Tbilisi

If you have more time, the route can be extended with the following attractions:

• Uplistsikhe Cave Town;
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta;
• Jvari Monastery.

However, when travelling with a 4.5-year-old child, it is better not to attempt every attraction in a single day. Choosing one or two major places leaves enough time for meals and rest.

Day 9: Gori — Vardzia and Tmogvi

Our next major destination was Vardzia, the famous cave monastery complex carved into the rock.

The road to Vardzia is an interesting part of the journey in itself. It passes through less touristy regions of Georgia, small settlements, mountain valleys and impressive natural scenery.

We stayed overnight at Vardzia Guesthouse Tmogvi, located near Vardzia. The guesthouse was booked in advance through Booking.com, and we paid in cash upon arrival.

When visiting Vardzia with a child, allow enough time for the walk. The complex includes staircases, uneven surfaces, narrow passages and sections where a young child may need assistance from an adult.

Comfortable footwear is essential. It is also advisable to carry drinking water and a hat during the warmer months.

Day 10: Vardzia — Borjomi — Batumi

After visiting Vardzia, we began our return journey towards the Black Sea.

We stopped in Borjomi along the way. For a family travelling with a child, this is a convenient way to divide a long drive. You can walk through the park, rest, have lunch and allow the child some time to play.

After our stop in Borjomi, we continued the journey and arrived in Batumi in the evening.

We returned the rental car to Rent2Go and then travelled around the city on foot, by bus and by taxi.

All hotels and guesthouses on our route

We reserved all accommodation in advance through Booking.com:

1. Hotel Homeland — Batumi;
2. Atlant Hotel — Tbilisi;
3. Hotel & Cottages Mountain View — Stepantsminda, Kazbegi;
4. Old Tbilisi Gate — Tbilisi;
5. Family Hotel Gori — Gori;
6. Vardzia Guesthouse Tmogvi — Tmogvi, near Vardzia;
7. Apart Voyage — Batumi.

We paid for accommodation at all of these properties in cash using Georgian lari. The cash was withdrawn from local ATMs using an international Mastercard issued in Indonesia.

This arrangement was convenient because the reservations confirmed our accommodation and allowed us to maintain a clear travel itinerary, while online payment with a foreign bank card was not required.

Kakheti and Sighnaghi: an optional route extension

It is impossible to see all of Georgia during a single trip. Travellers with an additional two or three days can extend the itinerary to include Kakheti and Sighnaghi.

Useful locations for a separate Kakheti itinerary include:

• Bodbe’s St. Nino’s Convent and the Sighnaghi Wall;
• Kusika Restaurant.

We decided not to include Kakheti in our main itinerary because we were travelling with a child and did not want every day to become a long-distance drive.

Is Georgia suitable for travelling with a child?

Our experience of travelling through Georgia with a 4.5-year-old child was very positive. A family road trip can be comfortable as long as the itinerary is not overloaded.

We recommend following several basic principles:

• avoid scheduling too many long drives on consecutive days;
• alternate driving days with quieter walking days;
• allow time for playgrounds, parks and ordinary rest;
• select accommodation with parking or a convenient location;
• keep drinking water and snacks in the car;
• use an appropriate child car seat;
• avoid starting difficult mountain routes late in the evening;
• arrange visas and travel insurance in advance;
• keep important documents in both printed and electronic formats.

Georgia is an excellent destination for a family road trip. During a single journey, travellers can experience the sea, mountains, historic cities, fortresses, monasteries and natural parks.

What we liked most about Georgia

Kazbegi

Kazbegi was the main natural highlight of our journey. The mountain scenery, panoramic road, Stepantsminda and Gergeti Trinity Church fully justified the drive from Tbilisi.

Tbilisi

We enjoyed Tbilisi for its atmosphere, architecture and variety. Visitors can walk through historic districts, take the cable car, relax in modern parks and experience Georgian cuisine.

Batumi

Batumi is a modern and energetic resort city with a long seaside promenade, beaches, parks and a large selection of restaurants.

The main disadvantage during the summer season is extremely heavy traffic. Even a short journey by car may take considerably longer than expected. Walking or using a taxi is often more convenient in the central areas.

Georgia in winter and ski holidays

After our summer journey, it became clear that Georgia is not only a warm-season destination.

During winter, travellers can return for a ski holiday, especially in Gudauri. Even in summer, the route through Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri and the Gudauri Friendship Monument demonstrates how impressive this mountain region can be.

A trip to Gudauri can be combined with several days in Tbilisi. However, winter travellers should pay particular attention to the weather, the condition of the Georgian Military Highway, the choice of vehicle and the availability of proper winter tyres.

Before a winter road trip, check the weather forecast, current road conditions and whether the mountain passes are open.

Practical tips before a Georgia road trip

• Download offline maps in case the mobile connection becomes unstable.
• Do not rely on only one bank card.
• Keep a small amount of cash in Georgian lari.
• Confirm parking availability with each hotel in advance.
• Do not leave documents or valuable items inside the car.
• Check the fuel level before entering mountain areas.
• Allow additional time for traffic congestion in Tbilisi and Batumi.
• Save the contact details of the car rental company.
• Photograph the vehicle when collecting and returning it.
• Review the deposit and insurance conditions carefully.
• Always use an appropriate child car seat.

Final impressions of our Georgia road trip

We genuinely enjoyed Georgia. Travelling by car allowed us to see much more than we would have experienced during a standard holiday in a single city.

The route from Batumi to Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Gori and Vardzia was entirely manageable for two adults and a 4.5-year-old child. The most important consideration is to avoid overloading the itinerary and to leave enough time for rest.

Our electronic visa was printed in advance and used during the necessary arrival and departure procedures. The international Mastercard issued by an Indonesian bank worked almost everywhere.

All hotels and guesthouses were reserved in advance through Booking.com, while accommodation payments were made in cash using Georgian lari withdrawn from the card.

Kazbegi impressed us with its mountains and peaceful atmosphere, Tbilisi with its architecture and walking routes, and Batumi with its seaside promenade and the energy of a resort city.

Georgia, we will see you again. Perhaps next time it will be in winter, with skis in Gudauri.