Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, is well-connected to other major cities in the country. Whether you’re planning a trip to explore Georgia’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, or cultural landmarks, getting from Tbilisi to other major cities is relatively straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide on how to travel from Tbilisi to various key destinations across Georgia.
1. Getting to Batumi
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 370 kilometers (230 miles)
- Driving Time: About 5-6 hours
- Route: Drive via E70 or E60 highways. The route offers scenic views of the Georgian countryside and the Black Sea coast.
By Train
- Travel Time: Around 6-7 hours
- Service: Georgian Railway operates daily trains between Tbilisi and Batumi. The train offers a comfortable and scenic journey.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased online through the Georgian Railway website or at the train station.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
- Service: Various bus companies operate routes between Tbilisi and Batumi. Buses are available from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Tickets can be bought at the bus station or booked online through various travel agencies.
By Plane
- Flight Time: About 1 hour
- Service: Direct flights from Tbilisi International Airport to Batumi Airport are available. This is the quickest option, though flights may not be as frequent.
- Booking: Check for flights with Georgian Airways or other regional airlines.
2. Getting to Kutaisi
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles)
- Driving Time: Around 3-4 hours
- Route: Travel via E60 highway. The route is relatively straightforward and offers picturesque views of Georgia’s landscape.
By Train
- Travel Time: About 4-5 hours
- Service: Georgian Railway operates several trains daily between Tbilisi and Kutaisi. Trains are comfortable and provide a relaxing journey.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or at the train station.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
- Service: Multiple bus companies offer services between Tbilisi and Kutaisi from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the station or through online booking platforms.
By Plane
- Flight Time: Around 1 hour
- Service: Direct flights are available from Tbilisi International Airport to Kutaisi International Airport, operated by regional airlines.
- Booking: Check with airlines like Georgian Airways for flight availability.
3. Getting to Zugdidi
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 310 kilometers (193 miles)
- Driving Time: About 5 hours
- Route: Take the E60 or E70 highways. The journey offers scenic views as you travel through western Georgia.
By Train
- Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours
- Service: Trains from Tbilisi to Zugdidi are available via Georgian Railway. The journey is comfortable and provides a chance to see the countryside.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online or at the station.
By Bus
- Travel Time: About 5-6 hours
- Service: Various bus services operate from Tbilisi to Zugdidi from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Purchase tickets at the bus station or through online platforms.
4. Getting to Mtskheta
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles)
- Driving Time: Around 30 minutes
- Route: Drive via the Mtskheta-Tbilisi highway. The route is short and convenient, offering easy access to this historic town.
By Taxi
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Service: Taxis are readily available and offer a comfortable and private travel option.
- Booking: Taxis can be booked through local services or ride-sharing apps.
By Bus
- Travel Time: About 40 minutes
- Service: Minibuses (marshrutkas) operate between Tbilisi and Mtskheta regularly from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus.
5. Getting to Telavi
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles)
- Driving Time: About 1.5-2 hours
- Route: Travel via the Tbilisi-Telavi highway, which provides direct access to the Kakheti region, known for its vineyards and historic sites.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours
- Service: Regular minibuses (marshrutkas) run from Tbilisi to Telavi from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at the station.
By Taxi
- Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
- Service: Taxis offer a convenient and direct way to reach Telavi.
- Booking: Taxis can be booked via local services or ride-sharing apps.
6. Getting to Borjomi
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles)
- Driving Time: About 2.5-3 hours
- Route: Drive via the E60 highway. The journey offers scenic views of the Georgian countryside.
By Train
- Travel Time: Around 3 hours
- Service: Georgian Railway operates trains from Tbilisi to Borjomi, providing a comfortable and scenic route.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online or at the train station.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours
- Service: Buses to Borjomi are available from the Didube Bus Station.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the station or through travel agencies.
7. Getting to Gudauri
By Car
- Distance: Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles)
- Driving Time: About 2-2.5 hours
- Route: Drive via the E117 highway, which provides access to the Caucasus Mountains and ski resorts.
By Taxi
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours
- Service: Taxis offer a convenient option for reaching Gudauri, especially for those carrying ski equipment.
- Booking: Taxis can be booked through local services or ride-sharing apps.
By Bus
- Travel Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
- Service: Seasonal buses and minibuses run from Tbilisi to Gudauri, particularly during the ski season.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the Didube Bus Station or through travel agencies.
Conclusion
Traveling from Tbilisi to other major cities in Georgia is convenient and offers a range of options depending on your preferences and time constraints. Whether you choose to drive, take a train, bus, or flight, each mode of transportation provides a unique way to experience Georgia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. Plan your journey according to your destination and enjoy the rich cultural and natural beauty that Georgia has to offer.