If you’re planning a visit to Georgia, you’re in for an adventure filled with amazing history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. This Georgia travel guide is here to help you uncover the best of what this beautiful country has to offer, from its captivating culture to its incredible local flavours. Beyond sightseeing, Georgia also offers amazing shopping experiences, where you can take home a piece of its rich cultural heritage.

Use Atlys for Georgia visa booking to simplify the visa application process, allowing you to focus on enjoying Georgia’s vibrant markets, culture, and attractions.

Top 10 Things to Take Home from Georgia

Georgian markets play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economy, contributing immensely to the livelihoods of countless families and small business owners. These markets are integral for distributing local produce, handcrafted goods, and traditional culinary delights, serving as essential hubs connecting Georgian artisans and farmers with locals and visitors. They provide insight into what to buy from Georgia as keepsakes of your travels.

1. Georgian Wine: A Taste of Ancient Winemaking Tradition

Georgia is often considered the cradle of wine, boasting a winemaking history of over 8,000 years. Georgian wine is unlike any other in the world, as it often uses the traditional qvevri (large clay jars buried underground) for fermentation, resulting in a truly unique flavour. No trip to Georgia would be complete without picking up a bottle of wine as a souvenir. Some popular options include Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Kindzmarauli, which offer a full spectrum of flavours, from sweet and fruity to rich and dry.

• Georgia has five main wine-producing regions: Adjara, Imereti, Kakheti, Kartli, Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti.

• Best red wines of Georgia: Saperavi, Mukuzani, Kindzmarauli, Khvanchkara, Tavkveri

• Best white wines of Georgia: Rkatsiteli, Kisi, Mtsvane Kakhuri, Tsinandali, Tvishi

Where to buy Georgian wine?

• Buy directly from the source: If you want to buy directly from the source, visiting Kakheti, the heart of Georgia's winemaking country, is highly recommended. Most wineries, like Kindzmarauli Corporation and Tsinandali Estate, offer tastings and sell wines on-site.

• Tbilisi wine shops: If you don’t have the time to visit Kakheti, wine shops like 8000 Vintages and Wine Gallery in Tbilisi offer a broad selection of Georgian wines.

• Markets: For locally made wines, try the Dry Bridge Market or Dezertiri Bazaar in Tbilisi, which sometimes sells wines from vineyards.

Price range:

• 20-100 GEL per bottle, depending on the variety and quality. Premium vintage wines might cost more.

2. Chacha: The Powerful Spirit of Georgia

Often compared to Italian grappa, Chacha is a traditional Georgian pomace brandy made from grape residue left after winemaking. It’s a must-have for those who enjoy strong alcoholic beverages. Chacha is traditionally homemade, and many vendors sell it in plastic bottles. Don’t let the humble packaging fool you, as the quality can be top-notch.

Where to buy Chacha?

• Speciality liquor stores: In Tbilisi and Batumi, stores like Chacha Corner and GWS Shop offer reliable brands of Chacha with different flavours and potency.

• Local markets: Head to Dezertiri Bazaar or Samtredia Market for authentic, homemade chacha.

Price Range:

• 15-50 GEL per bottle. The price depends on the quality, age, and whether it is infused with flavours.

3. Churchkhela: The Delicious Georgian Snacking Stick

Churchkhela is Georgia’s answer to candy, though it’s much healthier than most sweets. It’s made from threading nuts (typically walnuts or hazelnuts) on a string and dipping them repeatedly into thickened grape juice until fully coated. These colourful, sausage-shaped treats can be found hanging in almost every local market, and they make perfect souvenirs for friends and family.

Where to buy Churchkhela?

• Local markets: You can find churchkhela at the Dezerter Bazaar, Tbilisi Central Market, or Batumi Central Market. For more curated selections, check out speciality food stores like Badagi.

• Street vendors: You can find vendors selling fresh churchkhela in many tourist spots, such as Rustaveli Avenue and Old Town Tbilisi.

Price Range:

• 5-15 GEL per piece, depending on size and ingredients.

4. Traditional Georgian Carpets and Kilims: Masterpieces of Craftsmanship

Georgia's traditional carpets and kilims are some of the finest examples of the country’s rich textile heritage. Handwoven with intricate designs, they come in various styles, reflecting Georgia's cultural diversity. These beautiful pieces add a unique charm to any home.

Where to buy Georgian carpets?

• Dry Bridge Market (Tbilisi): This flea market has an incredible selection of antique and modern handwoven carpets, often with detailed patterns that tell a story.

• Carpet Shops in Old Town Tbilisi: Many boutiques around Shardeni Street specialise in handmade Georgian rugs and kilims.

Price Range:

• 100-500 GEL, depending on the size, material, and craftsmanship.

5. Sulguni Cheese: The Soul of Georgian Cuisine

Sulguni is a soft, brined cheese known for its strong flavour and firm texture. It’s a significant ingredient in some of Georgia’s most famous dishes, like Khachapuri. If you’re a cheese lover, Sulguni is an excellent choice to take home (just make sure it’s vacuum-sealed).

Where to buy Sulguni?

• Dezerter Bazaar (Tbilisi): You can find freshly made Sulguni cheese at this bustling market.

• Supermarkets: Stores like Carrefour and Goodwill in Tbilisi sell vacuum-sealed Sulguni, which is easier to take on a plane.

Price Range:

• 15-30 GEL per kilogram.

6. Minankari Enamel Jewellery: Beauty in Every Detail

Minankari is the ancient Georgian art of enamelling, known for its vivid colours and intricate designs. These handcrafted pieces make beautiful souvenirs, often featuring floral or abstract motifs that add a unique charm to your jewellery collection.

Where to buy Minankari jewellery?

• Shardeni Street, Tbilisi: Many boutiques specialise in Minankari jewellery, offering rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

• Sioni Street shops: Shops along Sioni Street in the Old Town also carry a wide range of handmade enamel pieces.

Price Range:

• 50-500 GEL, depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used.

7. Khinkali Making Tools: Cook Like a Georgian

If you enjoy Georgian food, specifically Khinkali (the famous Georgian dumpling), you might want to buy some traditional tools for their preparation. These tools will allow you to recreate the flavours of Georgia in your kitchen, sharing the experience with friends and family.

Where to buy Khinkali-making tools?

• Household goods stores: Stores like Domino or Kalafati in Tbilisi carry cooking tools, including khinkali moulds.

• Dezertiri Bazaar: The marketplace offers more traditional tools that are often handmade.

Price Range:

• 10-25 GEL for simple tools.

8. Svanetian Salt: The Taste of the Mountains

Svanetian Salt is a traditional blend from the mountainous region of Svaneti. It includes salt, garlic, blue fenugreek, coriander, and various herbs. The salt adds exceptional flavour to dishes and is perfect for cooking enthusiasts looking to spice up their meals with an authentic Georgian flair.

Where to buy Svanetian salt?

• Local markets: You can buy Svanetian Salt in Dezertiri Bazaar, Tbilisi Central Market, or the Batumi Market.

• Speciality stores: Check out Badagi for curated and packaged Georgian food products.

Price Range:

• 5-10 GEL per packet.

9. Felted Wool Crafts: A Touch of Tradition

Georgia has a long tradition of felting wool, and you’ll find various items like slippers, hats, bags, and decorative pieces made using this ancient craft. These cosy items make great gifts for family and friends, offering a true feel of Georgian culture.

Where to buy felted wool crafts?

• Dry bridge market (Tbilisi): Vendors at this market sell felted goods, each handcrafted and unique.

• Handicraft shops: Look for shops in Old Town Tbilisi or around Rustaveli Avenue that sell artisanal Georgian crafts.

Price Range:

• 20-100 GEL, depending on the item.

10. Georgian Ceramics: Art in Every Curve

The art of Georgian ceramics has been passed down through generations. It features brightly painted jugs, plates, and decorative items. These items are often adorned with traditional Georgian motifs and make for a striking souvenir that can be used at home or displayed as art.

Where to buy Georgian ceramics?

• Meidan Bazaar (Tbilisi): This underground market offers beautiful handmade ceramics, ideal for colourful and traditional designs.

• Old Town pottery shops: Wander through Abanotubani and other parts of Old Town to find shops selling ceramics handcrafted by local artisans.

Price Range:

• 15-80 GEL, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Georgia's Best Bargain Spots: Top Markets, Bazaars, and Flea Markets 

Traditional Georgian Markets

Traditional markets in Georgia are rich with cultural heritage. They offer fresh produce, spices, meats, and household items. These lively markets reflect the warmth and hospitality of the Georgian people.

• Samgori Market (Tbilisi): Samgori Market is popular for fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Locals shop here, making it a great spot to observe daily Georgian life.

• Kutaisi Central Market (Kutaisi): Located in Kutaisi, this market offers regional delicacies, fresh produce, and household items, making it ideal for exploring the city’s market culture.

• Batumi Central Market (Batumi): This market offers fresh seafood, produce, meats, and diverse local items, perfect for enjoying a seaside shopping experience.

Flea Markets and Antique Shopping

Flea markets in Georgia offer a unique glimpse into the country’s history through antiques, vintage items, and handicrafts.

• Dry Bridge Market (Tbilisi): The Dry Bridge Market is Tbilisi’s most famous flea market. It offers Soviet-era memorabilia, vintage jewellery, and antiques—a haven for collectors and bargain hunters.

• Makhinjauri Flea Market (Batumi): Located near Batumi, Makhinjauri Flea Market features antiques, vintage items, and handicrafts, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

• Tbilisi Antiques and Vintage Market: This Sunday market at Dedaena Park in Tbilisi is full of antiques, vintage clothing, and traditional crafts, perfect for browsing and bargaining.

Food and Produce Markets

Georgia’s food markets are a culinary paradise, showcasing the country’s agricultural bounty through fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and more.

• Eliava Market (Tbilisi): This market specializes in fresh produce and offers high-quality, seasonal ingredients at affordable prices.

• Fabrika Market (Tbilisi): Located in Fabrika, this modern market offers a curated selection of local artisanal foods, blending contemporary culture with traditional ingredients.

• Telavi Market (Telavi): This market offers fresh local produce, homemade wines, cheeses, and more, which is ideal for experiencing Kakheti’s wine region.

Textile and Craft Markets

Georgia’s textile and craft markets showcase beautiful handmade items, from clothing to pottery, providing an insight into the country’s artistic heritage.

• Samoseli Pirveli (Tbilisi): Samoseli Pirveli specializes in traditional Georgian garments and accessories, perfect for those seeking authentic Georgian clothing.

• Artisan Market (Tbilisi): The Artisan Market features handmade pottery, jewellery, and textiles, allowing visitors to purchase unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

• Sighnaghi Handicraft Market (Sighnaghi): This Market offers handmade pottery, jewellery, and textiles—a great way to explore the town’s rich artisanal heritage.

Regional Specialties and Unique Markets

Georgia’s diverse regions offer markets with distinctive products, allowing visitors to explore unique crafts, foods, and traditions.

• Svaneti Honey Market (Mestia): Mestia’s honey market specializes in regional honey, which is produced from wildflowers in the surrounding mountains. It is a must-visit for honey enthusiasts.

• Tusheti Wool and Craft Market (Omalo): This Market offers woollen products and traditional crafts, showcasing the talent of local artisans in a remote mountain region.

• Uplistsikhe Souvenir Market (Uplistsikhe): This market near the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe features pottery, jewellery, and Georgian crafts.

Made In Georgia: Best Local Designers and Brands

Georgia’s fashion scene blends traditional craftsmanship with modern style, gaining significant global recognition.

Top Georgian Fashion Designers:

• Demna Gvasalia: Creative director of Balenciaga and co-founder of Vetements, known for innovative designs.

• David Koma: Designer of sculptural and body-conscious pieces popular among celebrities.

• Tako Mekvabidze: Rising talent recognized for elegant, feminine collections rich in embroidery.

New Emerging Georgian Brands:

Georgian brands emphasize quality, craftsmanship, and locally sourced materials.

Popular Brands:

• Materia: Known for avant-garde leather accessories.

• Anouki: Combines traditional Georgian elements with modern designs.

• Rooms: Minimalist homeware using natural materials.

Prohibited or Restricted Items to Buy in Georgia

While Georgia offers many interesting items to buy, it's important to be mindful of restrictions.

• Antiques: Exporting antiques without proper documentation is prohibited. If you purchase something that looks old or historically significant, ensure it has the correct export permit.

• Cultural heritage items: Items that fall under cultural heritage require a special license to be exported from the country.

• Certain herbs and plants: Some rare herbs and plants, such as Japanese Bloodgrass and Red Baron, may be protected, and exporting them could result in fines or confiscation.

Precautions to Take While Shopping in Georgia

• Bargain politely: Negotiation is a common practice in Georgia, particularly in markets. When bargaining, always be polite and respectful. Vendors often expect it, but try to gauge how much wiggle room you have without offending them.

• Check authenticity: Whether you are buying wine, jewellery, or traditional crafts, ensure the product's authenticity. Buy from reputable vendors or shops to avoid counterfeit goods.

• Bring cash: While many stores in Tbilisi accept credit cards, local markets and small shops often prefer cash. Always carry enough cash, preferably in small denominations.

Tip: Travel effortlessly with a Forex Card. Securely manage multiple currencies, avoid high exchange fees, and enjoy seamless spending worldwide.

• Watch for counterfeits: When buying traditional items like wine or Chacha, avoid street vendors and stick to recognised stores to ensure you get the real thing.

Final Thought

Shopping in Georgia is more than a transaction; it’s an experience that connects you to the country’s history, culture, and craftsmanship. From delicious wines and traditional delicacies like churchkhela to beautifully crafted carpets and jewellery, there is something for every traveller to bring home. Georgia's bustling street markets and specialised boutiques make shopping an adventure, offering insight into the local lifestyle and traditions. 

Remember the precautions when shopping, and always be mindful of cultural and legal restrictions when buying certain items. Ultimately, the right souvenirs will remind you of Georgia’s incredible landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich culture long after your journey is over.