Georgia’s breathtaking mountain landscapes, historic cities, and legendary hospitality create a truly unforgettable experience, but understanding how to manage money ensures a smooth journey. Whether you’re savoring world-class Georgian wine, exploring Tbilisi’s old town, or trekking in the Caucasus Mountains, this guide provides all the details – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Georgia (Georgian Lari (GEL)), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and focus on enjoying Georgia’s rich culture and traditions.
How to pay in Georgia – cash or card?
In Georgia, card payments have become the predominant method of transaction, with a significant shift towards cashless payments in recent years. According to Visa, nearly 100% of transactions using Visa cards in Georgia are contactless, placing the country at the forefront globally in contactless payment adoption.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities are increasingly adopting contactless payment methods, some regional or rural transport services may still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Transactions at traditional markets and street stalls may still be predominantly cash-based, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: Some small or family-run shops and eateries might prefer cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: While tipping is not a widespread custom in Georgia, when done, it’s often in cash.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: All major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: The majority of dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Online Services: E-commerce platforms, online bookings for flights, accommodations, and other services typically require card payments.
Fuel Stations: Most accept cards, but it’s advisable to confirm beforehand, especially in remote areas.
What’s the best currency to take to Georgia
Georgian Lari (GEL) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Georgia. Paying or withdrawing money in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
Many tour operators and hotels quote rates in US Dollars or Euros and may insist on accepting these currencies when they see foreigners. However, if you pay in US Dollars or Euros instead of Georgian Lari, the exchange rates in these transactions can be poor. So, it’s advisable to pay in GEL to avoid losing money.
British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Georgia
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Georgia. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Georgia
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Georgia
If you’re withdrawing money in Georgia from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept Union Pay cards. Others like JCB, Amex, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Georgia
Bringing a small amount of Georgian Lari (GEL) before traveling can be helpful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Georgia are usually poor, and many foreign banks do not stock GEL, making it difficult to get in advance.
Withdrawing GEL from ATMs in Georgia is the easiest option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange currency in Georgia at banks or authorized exchange bureaus, which offer better rates than airports or hotels. If you need local cash upon arrival, exchange only a small amount at the airport, as rates are less favorable.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. If bringing USD, EUR, or RUB, you can exchange them easily at banks or currency exchange offices for better rates than in your home country. Paying in GEL ensures the best value, as foreign currency is generally not accepted in regular transactions.
Where to withdraw money in Georgia
You can withdraw money in Mozambique at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Georgia are those owned by popular banks such as:
Basisbank,
TBC Bank,
Bank of Georgia,
Terabank, and
Liberty Bank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Georgia.
Where to exchange currency in Georgia
Common places to exchange currency in Georgia are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Georgia, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as სავალუტო ჯიხური (savaluto jikuri). These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. For example, in Tbilisi the capital city, numerous exchange offices are located near metro stations, hotels, and large shopping malls, areas around Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square. Even Batumi, a popular tourist destination offers multiple exchange offices along the Batumi Boulevard and near the Piazza Square.
Banks: Major banks such as Bank of Georgia, TBC Bank, and Liberty Bank offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with some branches open on Saturdays until 1:00 PM.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Georgia.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is it safe to carry cash in Georgia?
Carrying money in Georgia is generally safe. The country has a low crime rate, and incidents of pickpocketing or theft are uncommon. However, it’s still advisable to exercise standard precautions, especially in crowded areas and public transportation.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Georgia
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
