From the pristine alpine meadows of Svaneti and the dramatic cliffs of the Georgian Military Highway to the scenic driveway along the Black Sea Coast, Georgia offers an unparalleled variety of experiences that make it perfect for a road trip. This reputation is further fueled by the country’s well-developed infrastructure and easy-to-rent car services, making it easier than ever to explore its breathtaking mountains. 
So, if you are planning to go on a Georgia road trip soon, here is a perfect 10-day itinerary covering iconic landmarks like Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Kutaisi, Svaneti and Batumi, along with details on how to enter Georgia by car or rent a vehicle within the country and things to keep in mind.

Here's your Georgia road trip at a glance [Tbilisi - Kazbegi - Kutaisi - Batumi - Kakheti - Tbilsi]:

Source: Google Maps

Note: Whether entering by car, air or sea route, depending on your nationality, you would need to apply for a Georgia e-visa. Make sure to apply on time to avoid any delays or complications in your travel plans. 

Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi

Day’s brief: Welcome to Georgia! Settle into Georgia's vibrant capital city, Tbilisi, explore the Old Town, and enjoy a relaxed first evening.

Morning: Check in at Fabrika

• Arrive early in Tbilisi and make your way to Fabrika, your accommodation for the night. At this repurposed Soviet sewing factory, you will find stays of all budgets, from dorms of 25₾ to private rooms of 90₾ (approximately). Additionally, the communal vibe here makes it a perfect spot to relax and connect with fellow travellers.

• If your check-in is late, don’t worry. Fabrika offers luggage storage options. Leave your bags, have breakfast at Fabrika, and head out to explore the city.

Afternoon: Explore the Old Tbilisi + Lunch

• Start by taking a cable car to the Narikala Fortress, enjoying stunning aerial views of the city and the Mtkvari River. Once at the top, wander through this 4th-century fortress, which is said to be protected by the holy spirit of St. Nicholas!

Note: The Narikala Fortress is undergoing renovations and will be closed to the general public until August 2025. If visiting before, you can explore the lower grounds, including a small church featuring historic murals. 

• What is a better way to refresh and relax than enjoying a healing bath? So, before you go for your lunch break, enjoy a sulfur bath in the Abanotubani district. The traditional bathhouses here are known not only for their well-preserved traditional baths and structures but also for their healing properties. 

• For lunch, stop by Kafe Leila, conveniently located near the sulfur baths. This charming café is known for its cosy atmosphere and vegetarian-friendly Georgian dishes. Try their Kharcho (soup), lobio (bean stew) or khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), paired with a refreshing lemonade.

Evening: A Blend of History, Culture, and Adventure

• Post-lunch, take a short drive towards the Georgian National Museum. On the way, stop for a picture at the Clock Tower of Tbilisi, part of the Rezo Gabriadze Puppet Theater. You can also choose to stay for an hourly show at the puppet theatre.

• Visit the Georgian National Museum to get a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture and art of Georgia. Highlights of the museum are the “Gold Fund,” a collection of intricate gold jewellery and coins from the ancient Kingdom of Colchis, which inspired the myth of the Golden Fleece!

• After your museum visit, drive through Liberty Square, one of the city’s main squares, and stop to admire the grand St. George Monument, which stands at the centre of the square and represents the spirit of Georgian independence.

• From here, go to Rike Park to take a break. As the sun sets, cross the Peace Bridge, a modern architectural marvel that connects the park to the old city. The bridge’s glass-and-steel structure glows brilliantly as it reflects the evening lights, creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk.

• With the city now bathed in twilight, drive to Mtatsminda Park, located on the slopes of Mtatsminda Mountain. Park the car in the parking lot and take the funicular railway to ascend the hill. At the park, you can enjoy the Ferris wheel, roller coasters, serene walking paths and stunning night views of the city. 

Night: Dinner + Return

• For dinner, indulge in a delightful meal at the Funicular Restaurant Complex, located within the park. The restaurant serves a mix of traditional and contemporary Georgian dishes. Make sure to try their khinkali (dumplings) or mtsvadi (Georgian-style skewered meat), and pair it with a fine Georgian wine for a memorable dining experience.

• Make your way back to Fabrika to rest and recharge for the next day of your journey. 

Want to tweak your Day-1 itinerary? Read our "Places to Visit in Tbilisi" blog and add your favourite spots to your plan!

Day 2: Tbilisi – Kazbegi via Georgian Military Road

(158 km / ~3 hours)

Day’s brief: Reaching the next stop, Kazbegi (a historic town on one of the oldest crossroads between Europe and Asia), via a scenic journey along the Georgian Military Road. 

Morning: Drive to Kazbegi

• Have an early breakfast at Fabrika and head out for Kazbegi. 

• Your next stop is the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 30 minutes from Tbilisi. It is a 6th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery that offers panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers and the town of Mtskheta.

• Your next stop is Ananuri Fortress, approximately 1.5 hours from Jvari. Spend some time wandering through its well-preserved towers, ancient churches, and walls. 

Afternoon: Lunch + Crossing the Georgian Military Road

• Within 5 minutes of the fortress, stop for lunch at Restaurant Samepho or Restaurant Ananuri. Both are highly rated spots (4+ stars). Try local specialities like khinkali (dumplings) or chakapuli (lamb stew). You can also try vegetarian specialities like Ghomi (cornmeal dish).

• Post-lunch, drive along the Georgian Military Road, a historic route that connects Tbilisi to the Russian border. The road winds through dramatic valleys, rugged cliffs, and picturesque mountain passes, making it a popular drive-through in Georgia!

• Pause at the Friendship Monument, perched on a cliffside overlooking the Caucasus Mountains. The site is a masterpiece of Soviet-era design, depicting Georgian-Russian unity. Take a short walk along the monument's edge to soak in unparalleled panoramic views and click stunning pictures.

Evening: Check-in at your Accommodation

• Afterwards, continue your drive to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda), where breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek will greet you. 

• Check in to your accommodation for the night. For a high-end experience, you can stay at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, renowned for its cosy, chic interiors and panoramic terrace overlooking Mount Kazbek. A good budget-friendly stay is the Nino’s Guesthouse, offering affordable, warm hospitality with a homely atmosphere.

• If energy allows, feel free to take a relaxed evening stroll through the charming streets of Stepantsminda, the main town in the Kazbegi region. Or, just spend the rest of the evening strolling through the Terek River, which flows through Stepantsminda.

Night: Dinner

• You can choose to eat at one of the local eateries in Stepantsminda or dine in during your stay only. Make sure to return to your accommodation on time to relax and prepare for an adventurous day in the mountains tomorrow!

Day 3: Hiking in Kazbegi

Day’s brief: Spend the day hiking and exploring Kazbegi's natural beauty.

Morning: Breakfast + Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation, and pack lunch or snacks like fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from local markets for your lunch today.

• Begin your ascent to the Gergeti Trinity Church (2–3 hours round trip), one of the most famous landmarks in Georgia, perched at an altitude of 2,170 meters. It is an easy-to-do hike even for beginners, and the trail offers stunning vistas of Mount Kazbek in the background. If hiking isn’t your preference, you can drive to the church.

• After the hike, take a well-deserved break and enjoy your packed lunch in the open garden area surrounding the church.

Afternoon: Hike to Gergeti Glacier 

• Option 1: If you are an experienced hiker, continue the trek beyond Gergeti Trinity Church toward the Gergeti Glacier (6–7 hours total). The path takes you through alpine meadows, rugged mountain terrain, and closer to the towering slopes of Mount Kazbek. 

Tip: Since it’s a strenuous hike, consider hiring a local guide through platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide to ensure your safety. Additionally, the guide can also provide fascinating insights into the region’s geology, flora, and fauna.

• Option 2: If you choose not to extend your hike, head back to the village to relax. Visit a local café like Cafe 5047m, known for its authentic experience and excellent coffee.

Evening: Unwind and Dinner

• Spend your evening unwinding at your accommodation or taking a stroll around Stepantsminda, soaking in the serene mountain views as the day transitions to night.

• Indulge in a hearty Georgian dinner at a village restaurant or at your accommodation.

Day 4: Kazbegi to Kutaisi via Gori & Uplistsikhe 

(323 km / ~5.5 hours approx.)

Day’s brief: A journey from Kazbegi to Kutaisi through central Georgia filled with history, culture, and scenic landscapes.

Morning: Breakfast + Drive to Gori

• Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Kazbegi. Fuel up for a long but rewarding day of travel.

• Make your way to the city of Gori (2 hours drive), the birthplace of Joseph Stalin.

• Stop in Gori to explore the Stalin Museum, which houses artefacts from Stalin's life, including personal belongings, photographs, and the train carriage he used during his travels. 

• Drive to the top of the Gori Fortress while passing through the Memorial of Georgian War Heroes made to honour the memory of lost heroes of Georgia in the war against the Soviet Army. Upon reaching the fortress, explore the structure and the panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas. 

Afternoon: Explore Uplistsikhe + Lunch

• Head to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town that dates back to the early Iron Age. Spend 1-2 hours wandering through this fascinating site, exploring its ancient caves, tunnels, and temples carved into the rocky cliffs. Imagine life in this once-thriving Silk Road settlement as you admire its intricate design and panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

• After a half-day of insightful exploration, stop for a delightful lunch at Kaklebi, a budget-friendly, 4.5-star-rated restaurant just 3 minutes from Uplistsikhe. 

• Continue your over 3-hour journey westward, passing through central Georgia's scenic countryside. Your driveway will pass through quaint villages, rivers, and forests along the way.

Evening: Arrive & Explore Kutaisi 

• Arrive in Kutaisi and settle into your chosen accommodation. You can stay at the Hotel Terrace Kutaisi (4.6 stars) for a high-end experience and Hotel 1870 (4.8 stars), known for its budget-friendly stay, warm hospitality and cosy atmosphere.

• After settling into your accommodation in Kutaisi, head out to explore some of its hotspots. Park the car at the public parking space and walk in the central square to see the Colchis Fountain (a central landmark adorned with golden statues inspired by ancient Georgian mythology) and the Soviet Sculpture Complex, showcasing monumental art from the Soviet era.

• Continue your stroll to the White Bridge, an elegant pedestrian bridge spanning the Rioni River. The bridge is known for its glass sections and offers picturesque views of the riverbanks, especially enchanting during sunset.

• After crossing the bridge, take a leisurely walk along the Rioni River promenade. The gentle sounds of the flowing river and the evening breeze create a serene ambience, perfect for unwinding.

Night: Dinner

• Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at Palaty (4.6 stars), celebrated for its fusion of traditional Georgian and European cuisines, offering dishes like Imeretian khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and chicken in walnut sauce. The cosy atmosphere and live music performances further enhance the dining experience.

• Head to your accommodation to relax and recharge for the night.

Day 5: Explore Kutaisi

Day’s brief: The day will be spent exploring Kutaisi's stunning caves, historic monasteries, vibrant markets, and hidden offbeat experiences like Shota’s Springs.

Morning: Prometheus Cave + Bagrati Cathedral

• Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at your accommodation.

• Begin your morning at Prometheus Cave (about a 30-minute drive from the city centre), a magical karst cave system featuring illuminated stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. Consider opting for a guided tour, which lasts 1–1.5 hours, and an optional boat ride through the underground river adds to the adventure.

• After the caves, head back to Kutaisi to visit the Bagrati Cathedral, an 11th-century architectural gem on Ukimerioni Hill. 

Afternoon: Kutaisi Market + Lunch

• Explore the lively Kutaisi market, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh produce, local cheeses, spices, and handmade crafts. It's a fantastic spot to experience daily life and pick up unique Georgian souvenirs.

• Enjoy a delicious lunch at Tetri Khidi Café or a nearby eatery, savouring local dishes like khinkali, lobio, or freshly baked khachapuri.

• Post-lunch, drive to Gelati Monastery, a 12th-century cultural and spiritual hub in Georgian history. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its vibrant frescoes and mosaics that offer a glimpse into medieval art and religion.

Note: Gelati Monastery is currently undergoing extensive restoration work, which may cause some areas to have limited access. However, the site largely remains open to visitors. We recommended checking with local guides or the visitor centre for the latest updates on accessibility before your visit.

Evening: Explore the Hidden Gems 

• Continue towards the tranquil Motsameta Monastery, located on a cliff overlooking the Tskaltsitela River. This small monastery is known for its legends and offers an intimate, peaceful setting to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

• For a unique and refreshing experience, head to Shota’s Springs, a hidden gem near Motsameta. These natural springs are a favourite among locals for their tranquil setting and therapeutic properties. 

Night: Dinner 

• Return and treat yourself to Kutaisi’s vibrant nightlife at Bude or Ziari Bar, two of the city’s popular clubs known for their lively atmosphere, great music, and a mix of local and international drinks to cap off your day in style.

• Relax for the night at your accommodation.

Want to explore more in Kutaisi? Read our "Places to Visit in Kutaisi" blog and add your favourite spots to your plan!

Day 6: Kutaisi – Zugdidi – Mestia (Svaneti Region)

(240 km / ~5-6 hours)

Day’s brief: Travel from Kutaisi to Mestia, with enriching stops in Zugdidi and breathtaking views along the way.

Morning: Drive to Zugdidi

• Before leaving your accommodation, have breakfast at your hotel in Kutaisi.

• Start your scenic drive to Zugdidi, the cultural gateway to Svaneti (~2 hours).

• En route, visit the Dadiani Palace Museum, a beautiful historical landmark that houses Georgian royal artefacts, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s death mask.

• Continue to the Zugdidi Botanical Garden, an idyllic spot with exotic plants and serene pathways.

Afternoon: Lunch + Scenic Drive to Mestia

• Enjoy a meal at nearby restaurants, such as Diaroni (4.4 stars) or Shua Qalaqashi (4.4 stars).

• Drive for 1-hour towards Enguri Dam (also called Inguri Dam), one of the world’s tallest arch dams. Spend time soaking in the spectacular views of turquoise waters and dramatic mountains. 

• Continue your journey through the winding roads of the Enguri River Valley to reach Hotel Svaneti or Guesthouse Keti Margiani, which are well-maintained, budget-friendly stays in Svaneti. 

Evening: Stroll in Mestia

• Visit the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, which showcases the region's rich cultural heritage, including ancient manuscripts, medieval artefacts, and traditional Svanetian treasures. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Later, take a stroll through Mestia’s town and see the iconic Svan Towers, medieval stone structures that were built as defensive dwellings.

Night: Dinner 

• Savour local flavours at family-run restaurants, such as Blue Mountains (4.6 stars) and Cafe Leila (4.4 stars), and if you want to break the food monotony, then enjoy some Turkish cuisine at the Svaneti Ritur Turkish Cuisine Restaurant & Cafe. 

• Head back to your hotel for a much-needed sleep. 

Day 7: Day Trip to Ushguli

(43 km / ~1.5-2 hours one-way)

Day’s brief: Explore Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remote beauty, ancient architecture, and stunning mountain views.

Morning: Drive to Ushguli

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, and begin your journey to Ushguli, one of the highest permanently inhabited villages in Europe (~1.5-2 hours).

• Upon reaching, visit the Lamaria Church, a 12th-century chapel perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of Mount Shkhara.

• Next, stop by the Ushguli Museum, housed in a traditional Svan tower, to learn about the region’s unique history and culture.

• Enjoy lunch at the nearby Stumari restaurant or at a local guesthouse, sampling traditional Svanetian dishes. If you have special dietary preferences, then it’s best to pack a picnic lunch in the morning.

Afternoon: Scenic Return to Mestia

• Begin your drive back to Mestia with picturesque stops along the way. 

• Stop at the Tower of Love, a charming historical landmark symbolising a Svan love legend of a young couple from feuding families who fled to the mountains to be together. The man built the tower as a refuge for his beloved, but she tragically passed away, leaving him to mourn her there. Today, the tower stands as a symbol of their enduring love and loss.

• Continue through Bogreshi and admire this scenic village known for its rustic charm and beautiful views.

• Pass the Ughviri Pass, and feel free to stop for photos and take in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Evening: Leisure in Mestia

• Upon reaching, park your car at the stay and take an evening walk in Mestia, interacting with the locals and exploring its quiet streets. 

• Wrap up your day with dinner at Chalet Mestia Restaurant, known for its delicious local dishes like grilled trout, khachapuri, and traditional Svanetian specialities.

• Return to your accommodation to unwind and relax. 

Day 8: Mestia – Batumi

(260 km / ~5-6 hours)

Day’s brief: Journey from the mountains of Mestia to the coastal city of Batumi, with scenic stops and a glimpse of Georgia's diverse landscapes.

Morning: Drive to Batumi

• Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.

• Start your descent from Mestia, passing through Khaishi and along the picturesque Patara Enguri River, with opportunities for quick photo stops at scenic spots.

• Make a stop at the Kolkheti National Park in the Poti region of Georgia, where you can explore the unique wetland ecosystem and observe rare birds and lush vegetation. The best way to explore the national park is on a boat tour. You would easily find local guides offering the tours at 80₾ to 150₾ depending on the boat and number of people. 

Afternoon: Lunch 

• After exploring the national park, drive towards Poti Beach for a relaxed seaside meal at Bristol or Qalaquri. 

• Make sure to see the Poti Lighthouse for stunning views of the Black Sea.

Evening: Arrive in Batumi

• Reach Batumi and check into your accommodation at Radisson Blu, offering modern amenities and breathtaking views of the sea, or Hotel Old Town, a cosy and affordable option in the heart of Batumi.

• Once you have settled in and are feeling refreshed, take a leisurely stroll along Batumi Boulevard and see the famous Ali and Nino Statue, a mesmerising moving sculpture that symbolises eternal love and unity.

Night: Dinner 

• Dine at Adjarian House, celebrated for its authentic Adjarian khachapuri, a boat-shaped bread filled with gooey cheese, butter, and a perfectly cooked egg.

• Return to your accommodation for the night. 

Day 9: Explore Batumi

Day's brief: Spend the day exploring the must-see attractions of Batumi.

Morning: Explore the Major Squares

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.

• Park your car at the public parking space (subject to parking fees) in Europe Square, and start exploring this bustling plaza surrounded by stunning neo-classical architecture, including the Medea Monument, symbolising Georgia's connection to Greek mythology.

• Walk over to Piazza Square, a charming European-style square with a lively atmosphere. It is a perfect way to familiarise yourself with the day-to-day life in Batumi. 

• From there, go towards Argo Cable Car Station, 10-15 minutes on foot, passing through Zviad Gamsakhurdia Street and Gogebashvili Street. Upon reaching, take the Argo Cable Car (standard cost- 30₾ for a round-trip) to Anuria Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Batumi, the Black Sea, and the surrounding mountains. Spend some time at the observation deck, taking photos and enjoying the fresh air.

Afternoon: Lunch + City Attractions Exploration

• There are restaurants and cafes at the top station of the Argo Cable Car where you can enjoy Georgian traditional dishes as well as European cuisine.

• Return to the city centre and drive your car to head to the Batumi Dolphinarium for an entertaining show, or visit the Batumi Aquarium to see a wide variety of marine life.

• Continue to see the Alphabetic Tower, around 6-7 minutes away, a unique structure celebrating the Georgian script, with an observation deck offering more city views.

Evening: Leisurely Walk 

• Relax at Batumi Boulevard, a lively seaside promenade perfect for a sunset stroll. Enjoy the sound of the waves and the vibrant atmosphere with street performers and vendors. Consider exploring Batumi Beach, getting a picture clicked with You, Me & Batumi and visiting the Batumi Lighthouse. 

Night: Dinner

• For dinner, indulge in fine dining at 360 Sky Bar, located on the top floor of the Sheraton Batumi Hotel, offering spectacular city and sea views. If you're up for it, dive into Batumi's nightlife at one of the city's popular bars or clubs, such as Clouds Bar or Prozac Nightclub.

Want to explore more in Batumi? Read our "Places to Visit in Batumi" blog and add your favourite spots to your plan!

Day 10: Batumi – Kakheti Wine Region – Tbilisi

(530 km / ~7-8 hours)

Day's brief: Journey from Batumi to Tbilisi via Kakheti's wineries for wine tasting and a final Georgian culinary experience.

Morning: Breakfast + Departure

• Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Batumi.

• Begin your journey toward the Kakheti wine region, known for its vineyards and stunning landscapes. When in Georgia, wine tasting is a must-do experience, as the country boasts an 8,000-year-old tradition and unique qvevri fermentation methods that offer a one-of-a-kind flavour profile.

Afternoon: Arrive in Kakheti and Visit the Wineries

• Upon reaching in Kakheti, tour a local winery such as Pheasant’s Tears or Tsinandali Estate to learn about traditional Georgian winemaking. At Pheasant’s Tears, you can experience the art of qvevri winemaking, an 8,000-year-old technique where wine ferments in clay vessels buried underground, creating unique and natural flavours. Meanwhile, Tsinandali Estate offers a blend of history and elegance, featuring a museum, beautiful gardens, and a collection of wines that showcase the region’s rich viticultural heritage.

• Indulge in a delicious farm-to-table lunch at the winery, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are paired with wines from the estate. 

• Post-lunch, drive back to Tbilisi (approximately 2-2.5 hours).

Evening: Dinner

• Celebrate your final evening in Georgia with a memorable food experience at Barbarestan, a renowned restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Georgian recipes.

• Consider staying at Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi or a more budget-friendly option, MyVibe Tbilisi, for convenience if you have an early flight the next day.

Bringing or Renting a Car in Georgia

If you plan to bring your own car to Georgia, the process is straightforward, but there are key requirements and considerations to ensure a smooth entry:

1. International Driving Permit (IDP): While some national driving licenses are accepted, having an IDP is strongly recommended, especially for non-European Union residents. This document serves as a translation of your home license and is often required for rental or insurance purposes.

2. Vehicle Registration Papers: Carry the original registration documents that prove ownership of your car. This is essential for border control and any potential road checks within Georgia.

3. Third-Party Liability Insurance: Insurance is mandatory in Georgia. If your existing car insurance doesn’t cover international travel, you must purchase temporary insurance at the border. 

4. Customs Declaration: At the border, you must declare your car as a temporary import. The process involves completing a form and possibly paying a refundable deposit (for non-residents), ensuring your car will not remain in Georgia permanently.

5. Emission Standards: While Georgia does not have strict road taxes, vehicles must meet basic emission standards. Ensure your car is roadworthy, as inspections might occur at the border.

Alternatively, if you wish to rent a car in Georgia, the process is also equally simple. Georgia has both international rental companies (like Hertz or Europcar) and reputable local agencies. Local companies, such as Local Rent, often provide more flexible pricing (20-25 USD for a standard and SUV per day) and better knowledge of Georgian road conditions. 

Make sure to bring your passport, driver's license, and credit card with you to make the payment. [Basic third-party liability insurance is usually included, and additional coverage (e.g., for off-road damage) is available at extra cost.]

Going on a Georgia Road Trip? Here are the Things to Keep in Mind

Note: Late spring, summer, and early autumn months, spanning from May to October, are the best times to embark on a Georgia road trip!

• Mountain Roads: Georgia's mountainous regions, like Kazbegi and Svaneti, offer stunning views but challenging roads. Narrow, winding, unpaved paths with steep inclines and poor weather demand cautious driving. Use a 4x4 for stability, drive slowly, and plan extra time. Check the weather and road conditions before travelling, and carry essentials like a spare tyre, first-aid kit, and emergency supplies for safety.

• Fuel Stations: Fuel stations are common in cities and highways but sparse in rural or mountainous areas like Svaneti or Kazbegi. Always fill your tank in major towns before remote travel. Many stations only accept cash, so keep Georgian Lari on hand. 

• Local Driving Habits: Driving in Georgia can be unpredictable due to aggressive overtaking, limited lane discipline, and frequent jaywalking, especially in cities. In rural areas, you may encounter slower vehicles or livestock. Many road signs are in Georgian, so use GPS for navigation. Defensive driving and maintaining a safe distance are essential. Be patient and adapt to local habits like frequent honking, which signals intent rather than irritation. 

• Parking: Parking in rural Georgia is often free, but urban areas like Tbilisi and Batumi have designated paid parking zones managed by meters or apps. Violations may lead to fines or towing. Hotels may offer complimentary or discounted parking, so inquire ahead. For city visits, allow extra time to find a spot, especially during peak hours. Parking garages are safer alternatives to street parking. 

• Emergency Contacts: Save essential emergency numbers for a road trip in Georgia, especially in remote areas with limited services. The national emergency line is 112 for police, ambulance, and fire assistance. Keep your rental company’s contact for roadside support. Know the nearest hospitals or clinics, particularly in rural regions. Carry a toolkit, flashlight, extra water, food, and warm clothing for emergencies, especially in winter. Locals are often helpful, but being prepared ensures safety and peace of mind during your journey.

Conclusion

From the bustling streets of Tbilisi to the serene mountains of Kazbegi, the charming alleys of Kutaisi, and the vibrant coastline of Batumi, this 10-day itinerary ensures you explore the best the country has to offer.

Whether you drive your own car or rent locally, preparation and mindfulness are key to a smooth journey. Make sure to follow the essential tips we’ve discussed—such as driving cautiously on mountain roads, planning fuel stops, adapting to local driving habits, and keeping emergency contacts handy. These considerations will not only ensure a safe trip but also allow you to fully immerse yourself in Georgia's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.