Alright, so you’re thinking about coming to Tbilisi, Georgia. Maybe you’ve seen it pop up on your Instagram feed. Maybe you’re just tired of paying $5 for coffee in the States. Either way, I’m going to give you my unfiltered, boots-on-the-ground, been-here-done-that review of the city.

Let’s break this down into the exact questions you’re probably Googling right now.

If you’ve been Googling “is Tbilisi, Georgia worth visiting?” or “how expensive is Tbilisi Georgia?”, congrats, you found the only post you need.

I’ve been coming to Georgia since 2019. Not just Tbilisi. I’ve hit Batumi, bounced around to villages, and spent weeks soaking in this country. But for whatever reason, I never gave you my real review of Tbilisi.

That ends now.

My Honest Opinion On Tbilisi Georgia

Why Do People in Tbilisi, Georgia Seem So Cold?

If you show up here expecting people to greet you with a fake smile and a “have a nice day,” you’re in for a shock.

Tbilisi doesn’t do small talk. Nobody’s out here trying to make you feel special at least not at first.

But here’s the truth…

They’re not rude. They’re just real. You’re not entitled to their attention. And I respect that.

Now, if you keep showing up at the same restaurant, treat the staff right, tip decently? They’ll start lighting up when they see you. Like clockwork.

The West teaches you to expect fake friendliness. Georgia teaches you to earn it.

How Expensive Is Tbilisi, Georgia?

You’re probably wondering: How much does it cost to live in Tbilisi, Georgia?

Short answer? Less than you think, and way less than it should for the value you get.

Let me break it down for both ends of the spectrum:

Budget Life:

• Airbnb or hotel: $300/week (budget friendly go with Airbnbs or or Boutique)
• Meals: $7 to $15 (as always depends on where. I typically am paying for myself and my team at nice spots so spend $150).
• Transport: $2 to $10 most places with Bolt
• Coffee: $1 to $5

You can live well, stack cash, and never once feel like you’re missing out.

No budget:

• Luxury hotel: $300 to $1,0000/night (I’m at The Paragraph right now, highly recommend)
• High-end dining: $40 $100 for a baller meal
• Private driver from Batumi to Tbilisi: $200

The cost of living in Tbilisi is stupid affordable if you’re smart and running a business online. Whether you’re broke or balling, this city’s got something for you.

Just don’t show up talking about “backpacker hostels” and $12-a-day nonsense. If you’re a backpacker, I highly doubt you’re reading this blog, but I gotta gatekeep. This blog and city is for builders, not drifters.

How to Get Around in Tbilisi, Georgia?

Tbilisi doesn’t have Uber. But it’s got Bolt and Yandex. I use Bolt exclusively. Clean rides. Fast pickups. Cheap.

• Average ride? $2–$3
• Longest ride I’ve taken? $10
• And yes—it’s all app-based, card-friendly, and easy to use.

Plus, the city’s super walkable. I’ve had 15,000-step days without even realizing it. One of the only cities where you’ll enjoy walking, especially around Freedom Square or Rustaveli.

Is Tbilisi, Georgia Safe?

Here’s a little test: Can you walk around at 3 AM, completely alone, and feel zero fear? In Tbilisi? You can. I’ve done it many times.

Georgia is one of the safest countries I’ve ever stepped foot in. Here’s a quick story:

A friend lost their phone. Gone for almost an hour. When they came back, an old guy, who’d gotten off of work took it to a nearby store to keep it safe. No scam. No hustle. Just returned it.

Of course we gave him some cash. Because when people do right by you, you return the favor.

And another random thing I like about the Georgian people is how serious they take Christianity. Use see people make the cross every time they pass a church. That tells you all you need to know about how deep the values run here.

Is Tbilisi a Good Place to Work Remotely?

Absolutely. If you’re a digital nomad or someone building your online empire, Tbilisi might just be your new favorite homebase.

Why?

• 12-month visa on arrival for most Western countries
• Insanely fast Wi-Fi in cafes and hotels
• Affordable rent (Airbnbs are clutch here)
• Strong coffee, quiet work spots, and no distractions

You can go from morning deep work, to lunch with a view, to evening strategy calls, all within a 10-minute walk.

You’re not dealing with the noise of a place like Bangkok. You’re not being drained by the cost of living like in New York. Tbilisi just… flows.

Where to Stay in Tbilisi, Georgia

If you want to be in the right spot, stay near:

• Freedom Square
• Rustaveli Avenue
• Or Mtatsminda (that “moneybag mountain view” vibe I dig)

You’ll be close to everything—restaurants, malls, views, work cafes, and vibes.

Stay in that zone and you’ll experience the best of Tbilisi.

Final Thoughts: Should You Visit or Live in Tbilisi, Georgia?

Let me wrap this up.

If you’re looking to:

• Travel without going broke
• Work on your business in peace
• Experience real culture without fake smiles
• Walk around at 3 AM feeling like a boss

Tbilisi, Georgia should be at the top of your list.

It’s not for everybody. But if you’re reading this blog, then it’s probably for you.

Come here. Eat the khinkali. And build a life.

Always the best,

Dylan Madden

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