Getting Around Tbilisi. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Overview

The city’s public transport network includes Metro (two lines, fast, clean, and reliable), Buses (an extensive network covers most neighborhoods, newer buses often air-conditioned), and Minibuses (Marshrutkas, private, follow set routes, a quick, though sometimes crowded, alternative to buses).

The Rike Park-Narikala Fortress Cable Car also functions as a practical transport link.

Features

Metro: Two lines, marked by red 'M' logo, fast and reliable.
Buses: Extensive network, often air-conditioned.
Marshrutkas: Private minibuses, follow set routes, quick alternative.
Cable Car: Rike Park-Narikala Fortress link, panoramic views, also transport.

Metromoney Card

Rechargeable plastic card for seamless public transport (₾2 purchase, ₾1 per ride, unlimited transfers 90 min).

Payment Options

Newer buses and metro accept direct contactless bank card payments. Some marshrutkas take cash.

Route Hubs

Metro maps present. Google Maps reliable. Marshrutka hubs: Didube (Western Geo), Ortachala (Southern/Eastern Geo), Samgori (Kakheti).

Operational Details

Service Hours

Metro: ~6:00 AM to midnight, trains every 5-10 min peak.
Buses: ~6:00 AM to midnight (route specific).
Marshrutkas: Flexible schedules, start earlier, run later, depart when full.

Accessibility Notes

Metro: Older stations deep escalators, lack elevators. Newer stations better accessibility.
Buses: Some newer fleet low-floor, wheelchair-accessible.
Overall: Hilly terrain, uneven pavements challenging for mobility impairments.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Service

Traditional taxis in Tbilisi vary widely in quality and reliability. Look for taxis that display a meter, though meters are often "broken" or drivers refuse to use them.

Typical Fares

Fares for traditional taxis can vary significantly. An intra-city ride might cost anywhere from ₾5-20. Payment for traditional taxis is usually in cash.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Bolt is the most popular and reliable ride-sharing app in Tbilisi. It has transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and payment options via the app (card or cash). Yandex Go is another option.

Safety Tips

You run a higher risk of overcharging with traditional taxis. Ride-sharing apps are generally safer due to driver tracking, fixed pricing, and the ability to rate drivers and passengers.

Vehicle Rental Choices

Renting a car has flexibility for exploring Georgia, but grasp the requirements and road conditions.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid national driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), passport, credit card for deposit.
Minimum age for car rental typically ranges from 21 to 23 years.
Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) and local companies operate.
Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is suggested to secure your preferred vehicle.

Driving Laws & Parking

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Speed limits are generally 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on open roads, and 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways.
Finding parking can be difficult and expensive in central Tbilisi. Paid street parking zones exist.
Georgia maintains a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving.

Motorcycle & Bicycle

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common compared to car rentals.
Not suggested for inexperienced riders due to city traffic.
Bicycle rentals available from private shops, suited for recreational use.

Tbilisi has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
Cycling in heavy traffic can pose hazards for unfamiliar tourists.
Recreational cycling in parks or along the Mtkvari River a safer experience.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Various operators furnish tour buses, typically starting from Freedom Square or Rustaveli Avenue.

Water Transport

Limited boat taxis and water transportation options exist. Recreational boat tours on the Mtkvari River are available.

Unique Options

Tbilisi does not commonly use specialty vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys for local transport.

Exploring on Foot & Bike

Tbilisi is a city that rewards walking, notably its historic core.

Pedestrian Areas

Old Town (Abanotubani, Shardeni Street, Meidan Bazaar) is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.
Rustaveli Avenue: Wide sidewalks make this grand avenue suitable for walking and people-watching.
Mtkvari River Embankment: Pleasant walking paths stretch along the river, delivering scenic views.
Vake Park, Mtatsminda Park: Excellent green spaces for leisurely strolls and escaping the urban bustle.

Walking Tours & Cycling Safety

Numerous guided walking tours, both free and paid, are available. Many free tours depart from Freedom Square.
Self-guided tours using apps like Google Maps or pre-downloaded routes are popular, permitting exploration at your own pace.
Tbilisi has limited dedicated bike lanes. Cycling in heavy traffic can pose hazards for tourists unfamiliar with local driving habits.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians and cyclists. Exercise caution in areas with heavy traffic and avoid poorly lit or deserted streets late at night.

Unique City Transport

Cable Car

Connects Rike Park to Narikala Fortress, delivering stunning panoramic views of the city as you ascend.

Uses Metromoney card

Funicular

The historic Funicular connects Chonkadze Street to Mtatsminda Park, offering spectacular city views and access to amusement rides and restaurants.

Uses Metromoney card

Boat Tours

Recreational boat tours on the Mtkvari River are available, presenting a different perspective of the city.

Scenic & Relaxing

Accessibility & Safety on Foot

Accessibility Challenges

Tbilisi's terrain and older infrastructure pose challenges for accessibility.
Many older metro stations lack elevators.
Uneven pavements are common in many areas.

Pedestrian Safety

Use crosswalks and traffic signals when available.
Stray dogs are present; generally harmless but maintain distance.
Be mindful of personal belongings in tourist hotspots.

Areas of Attention

No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians.
Exercise caution in areas with heavy traffic.
Avoid poorly lit or deserted streets late at night for general safety.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded spots like Rustaveli Avenue, the Old Town, and public markets.

Cobblestones and uneven surfaces are common; wear appropriate footwear.
Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas.
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers who offer drinks, notably in bars, as this can be part of a scam.
Taxis hailed on the street may overcharge; use ride-sharing apps like Bolt for transparent pricing.

Final Thoughts on Getting Around

Tbilisi is a city best explored by mixing its efficient public transport with walks through its historic districts.

Smart Choices

Embrace the Metro for speed and affordability.
Utilize ride-sharing apps for convenience and fair pricing.
Prioritize comfortable footwear for extensive walking.
Metromoney card: your versatile to city transport.

Embrace the City

Enjoy the scenic cable car and funicular rides.
Discover hidden gems on foot in pedestrian-friendly areas.
Consider car rental for trips outside the city center.
Patience and an open mind truly elevate your travel experience.

Scenic Views

Cable car and Funicular deliver breathtaking panoramas.

Historic Strolls

Old Town, Rustaveli, and river paths are ideal for walking.

Safety First

Use ride-sharing apps for taxis and stay aware in crowds.

Green Travel Initiatives

Eco-Friendly Practices

Choose public transport when possible.
Carry a reusable water bottle.
Bring reusable shopping bags.

Support Local

Dine at local restaurants and cafes.
Purchase souvenirs from local artisans.
Respect local customs and traditions.

Final Wisdom

Tbilisi is a city of discovery. Embrace its unexpected charm and enjoy every moment of your journey.

Its unique blend of history and modernity promises an enriching experience.

Getting Around Tbilisi