Georgia spans coastal lowlands, fertile valleys, and the Greater and Lesser Caucasus ranges. The highest peak is Mount Shkhara at 5,193 m, with Mount Kazbek about 5,047 m. Western Georgia has a humid subtropical climate, while the east is more continental and dry. Major rivers include the Rioni and Mtkvari. Time zone is UTC+4. Georgian is the sole official language, while minority languages such as Abkhaz, Azerbaijani, Armenian, and Russian are present in communities. The five-cross flag and the national coat of arms with St. George reflect medieval heraldry and Christian heritage. There is no state religion, but the Georgian Orthodox Church holds a constitutionally recognized special role. Administrative regions include Adjara as an autonomous republic and various regions with municipalities.

History
Human settlement in present-day Georgia dates to deep prehistory, with some of the world’s earliest evidence of winemaking in the Shulaveri-Shomu sites of the Neolithic. In classical antiquity, the western kingdom of Colchis and the eastern kingdom of Iberia emerged along Black Sea trade and overland routes linking to Persia and the Hellenistic world. Colchis entered Greek myth as the land of the Golden Fleece, echoing regional gold washing and metallurgy. Iberia adopted Christianity early in the 4th century, helping to consolidate a distinctive culture and script traditions that later solidified into the Georgian alphabet. Through late antiquity, Iberia and neighboring polities balanced between Rome-Byzantium and Sasanian Persia, preserving a highland identity amid great power rivalry.
The early medieval period saw the rise of the Kingdom of Abkhazia and the Bagratid principalities, culminating in the unification of Georgia in 1008 under King Bagrat III. A golden age in the 11th-13th centuries under David the Builder and Queen Tamar brought military consolidation, monastic scholarship, cathedral building, and the flowering of literature exemplified by Shota Rustaveli’s The Knight in the Panther’s Skin. Urban centers like Tbilisi and Kutaisi thrived as nodes on the Silk Road, while cave complexes such as Vardzia embodied both piety and strategic refuge. Mongol incursions in the 13th century fractured the realm, followed by periods of Timur’s campaigns and a long era of fragmentation into kingdoms and principalities.
From the 16th to 18th centuries, eastern and western Georgian polities navigated Ottoman and Persian dominance. The 1783 Treaty of Georgievsk sought Russian protection for Kartli-Kakheti, but devastating Persian invasions in the 1790s and early 1800s preceded full Russian annexation in the 19th century. Under the Russian Empire, Georgia modernized infrastructure, education, and industry, and Tbilisi became a cosmopolitan administrative and cultural hub. National movements, print culture, and theater matured, setting the stage for the short-lived Democratic Republic of Georgia declared on 26 May 1918 amid the collapse of the Russian state.
In early 1921, Red Army invasion incorporated Georgia into the Soviet sphere, later as a union republic. Soviet decades brought electrification, railways, Black Sea resort development, hydropower megaprojects like Enguri Dam, and mass literacy, but also purges, collectivization, and centralized rule. Cultural life persisted through film, polyphonic choirs, and visual arts. In the late 1980s, a national movement for independence grew alongside calls for reform. Georgia declared independence on 9 April 1991.
The 1990s were turbulent, marked by civil strife in Tbilisi, economic collapse, and conflicts in South Ossetia and Abkhazia that produced mass displacement and de facto separation of those regions. State rebuilding accelerated after the 2003 Rose Revolution, with anti-corruption reforms, police modernization, and business climate improvements. In August 2008, a brief war with Russia over South Ossetia led to further displacement and the recognition by Russia of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent, which Georgia and most of the international community reject. Since then, Georgia has pursued Euro-Atlantic alignment, deepened regional connectivity through pipelines, rail, and logistics, and expanded tourism and wine exports. Political competition remains vigorous, with alternations in government through elections and continued debates over judicial reform, media freedom, and foreign policy orientation. Despite shocks, Georgia has significantly upgraded infrastructure, digitized services, and revived cultural heritage, positioning itself as a bridge between the Black Sea and the Caucasus highlands.

Industry
Georgia’s economy blends agriculture, extractives, energy transit, services, and light manufacturing. Wine is a flagship sector, with qvevri clay-vessel winemaking recognized as intangible heritage and brands such as Tbilvino, Kindzmarauli, Khareba, and Chateau Mukhrani gaining export reach. Mineral water Borjomi is a historic Georgian brand. Processed foods, beer and soft drinks from producers like Natakhtari and Zedazeni, and spirits such as chacha contribute to FMCG output. Hazelnuts are a major export, alongside fruits, tea revival projects in Guria and Adjara, and greenhouse vegetables. Mining includes manganese in Chiatura and copper-gold projects in Bolnisi and Adjara. Energy features hydropower as backbone, with growing wind and solar, and transit of Caspian oil and gas via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and South Caucasus pipelines. Logistics rely on Black Sea ports Poti and Batumi, rail corridors, and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway. IT outsourcing, gaming, fintech, and film production incentives are expanding. Notable records include Enguri Dam among the world’s tallest arch dams and some of the world’s oldest archaeological evidence of winemaking.

Flora and fauna
Georgia lies within the Caucasus biodiversity hotspot. Western lowlands host Colchic rainforests and wetlands with relic species, while eastern steppes and semi-deserts transition to montane forests and alpine meadows. Notable wildlife includes brown bear, wolf, lynx, chamois, wild goat, and rare Caucasian leopard. Endemics and near-endemics include the Caucasian tur, Caucasian grouse, and various vipers. Protected areas include Borjomi-Kharagauli, Tusheti, Lagodekhi, Vashlovani, Kazbegi, and Kolkheti National Parks. The national Red List covers threatened flora and fauna, while CITES rules govern export of wild species and derivatives. Hazards include venomous snakes in warm months, ticks in grasslands, and occasional aggressive shepherd dogs. Domestic animals are common in rural roads, so caution is advised when driving.

Religion and races
Georgians comprise the clear majority, with Azerbaijani and Armenian minorities and smaller Russian, Ossetian, Abkhaz, and other communities. Around four fifths to nearly nine tenths of residents identify as Christian, predominantly Georgian Orthodox. Muslims form a significant minority, with communities in Adjara and Kvemo Kartli, and there are Armenian Apostolic, Catholic, Jewish, and Yazidi communities. Religious life is visible in church attendance on feast days, pilgrimage to monasteries, and household rituals around wine and bread. Georgian polyphonic singing and the supra feast with a toastmaster are cultural anchors that cross confessional lines.

Wars and conflicts
Post-Soviet conflicts in South Ossetia and Abkhazia in the early 1990s resulted in ceasefires, de facto separation, and large internally displaced populations. The August 2008 war with Russia over South Ossetia involved intense fighting and subsequent stationing of Russian forces in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The boundaries remain sensitive, with periodic detentions for alleged border violations. Terror attacks are rare nationwide. Georgia has contributed to international missions in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Military cemeteries and memorials in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Gori commemorate the fallen. Travelers should avoid attempting to enter Abkhazia or South Ossetia from Russia, which is illegal under Georgian law.

Standard of living
Georgia has achieved strong improvements in governance and service delivery since the mid-2000s, with relatively low petty corruption and streamlined public services. Human development has risen to high levels, though income disparities persist between Tbilisi and regions. Tourism growth, remittances, and logistics have boosted living standards, while rural areas still rely on subsistence agriculture. Prices are moderate by European standards, with Tbilisi and Batumi higher than secondary cities.

Healthcare
Healthcare is a mixed public-private system with broad insurance programs for residents and a strong private hospital sector in major cities. Pharmacies are widespread and many operate extended or 24-hour hours in urban centers. Tap water quality varies by locality; bottled water is a prudent choice for visitors. Routine vaccines should be up to date, with travelers often adding hepatitis A and B and, depending on activities, rabies pre-exposure for extended rural stays. Carry prescriptions and a basic first aid kit for mountain travel. Emergency number is 112.

Sports
Rugby union is a national passion, with the Lelos competitive at Rugby World Cups. Football remains the most watched sport, with a growing generation of players in European leagues. Wrestling, judo, and weightlifting produce world and Olympic champions, including multiple world records in recent years. Basketball and chess have solid traditions. Winter sports focus on Gudauri and Bakuriani, which host alpine and freestyle events.

Holidays
Public holidays include New Year’s Days on 1-2 January, Orthodox Christmas on 7 January, Epiphany on 19 January, Independence Day on 26 May, St. Mary’s Day on 28 August, Mtskhetoba-Svetitskhovloba in late October, St. George’s Day on 23 November, and Victory Day on 9 May. Easter follows the Orthodox calendar and is widely observed with church services and family gatherings.

Traditions
The supra is a ceremonial feast where a tamada leads toasts that weave history, family, and humor. Guests are offered wine, chacha, breads, cheeses, fresh herbs, and seasonal dishes. In churches and monasteries, modest attire and quiet are expected. Hospitality is generous, and a small gift from a guest is appreciated. In mountain regions, respect local herders and ask before photographing people.

Interesting facts
Georgia is one of the world’s oldest wine cultures, with qvevri winemaking dating back about 8,000 years. The monumental Enguri Dam is among the tallest arch dams globally. Vardzia’s 12th century cave city stretches across a cliff face. Gori is the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, whose museum attracts debate and curiosity. Painter Niko Pirosmani and poet Shota Rustaveli are national icons. In 2015, floods in Tbilisi caused tragic loss of life and the escape of zoo animals, a disaster that reshaped urban planning around the Vere River. Ushguli in Upper Svaneti is among the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Europe.

Money
Currency – Georgian lari. Cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist hubs, though small businesses may prefer cash. ATMs are common in urban areas and airports. Exchange money at banks or licensed exchange bureaus for fair rates and receipts. For planning, note that the GEL-USD rate fluctuates – check close to travel. Tipping 10 percent is customary in restaurants if service is not included, and small tips are appreciated by drivers and guides. Contactless payments are increasingly common.

Everyday details
Electricity is 230 V at 50 Hz, with Type C and F sockets. The country code is +995. Major mobile operators provide broad 4G coverage in populated areas and growing 5G in cities. A passport is required to purchase a local SIM. Smoking is prohibited in most enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars. Internet is reliable in cities, while mountain villages may have limited bandwidth.

Clothing
In summer, western lowlands and the coast are warm and humid, while eastern valleys are hot and dry – pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection. Mountains are cool even in July – bring a fleece and rain shell. In winter, coastal areas are mild and wet, while uplands are snowy – warm coats and boots are essential. Shorts and open-toe shoes are acceptable in cities, but cover shoulders and knees in churches. A scarf can be useful for women at some religious sites.

Tourism
A first-time trip of 7-10 days covers Tbilisi’s old town, sulfur baths, and museums, day trips to Mtskheta’s Jvari and Svetitskhoveli, and the Kazbegi route to Stepantsminda and Gergeti Trinity Church beneath Mount Kazbek. Add Kakheti for wine towns like Telavi and Sighnaghi and the David Gareja cave complex. With 12-14 days, head west to Kutaisi, Gelati, the karst caves of Imereti, and the Black Sea coast at Batumi with Adjara’s tea hills and subtropical gardens. For 2-3 weeks, include Svaneti’s high towers around Mestia and Ushguli, Samtskhe-Javakheti’s Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia, and remote Tusheti or Khevsureti for trekking. Winter brings skiing in Gudauri and Bakuriani; spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cultural circuits. Distances are short, but mountain roads and views reward an unhurried pace.

Types of tourism
Cultural and historical circuits, wine and gastronomy, mountain trekking and alpinism, Black Sea beach holidays, wellness and spa, birding and nature photography, ski and winter sports, adventure travel including paragliding and rafting.

Tourist attractions
– Historic Monuments of Mtskheta – Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Samtavro – UNESCO
– Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi – medieval academy and frescoes – UNESCO
– Upper Svaneti – tower villages around Mestia and Ushguli – UNESCO
– Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands – protected areas in western Georgia – UNESCO
– Tbilisi Old Town and Narikala Fortress – sulfur baths, winding lanes, and hilltop views
– Gergeti Trinity Church, Stepantsminda – iconic church beneath Mount Kazbek
– Vardzia cave city, Samtskhe-Javakheti – 12th century monastic complex in a cliff
– Batumi Boulevard and Botanical Garden – subtropical seaside promenades and flora
– Uplistsikhe rock-hewn town, Shida Kartli – ancient cave city on the Mtkvari
– Prometheus and Sataplia Caves, Imereti – karst formations and dinosaur footprints

Non tourist attractions
– Enguri Dam, Samegrelo – colossal arch dam with limited-access tours and striking vistas
– Chiatura cable cars, Imereti – Soviet-era ropeways serving a manganese mining town
– Rustavi industrial zone, Kvemo Kartli – heavy-industry landscape and steel works periphery
– Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory, Samtskhe-Javakheti – high-altitude domes under dark skies

Local cuisine
Georgian food is generous and regional. Khachapuri has many styles – Adjarian with egg and butter, Imeretian with cheese, Megruli with extra topping. Khinkali soup dumplings are twisted and eaten by hand. Mtsvadi is charcoal-grilled meat, while badrijani nigvzit pairs eggplant with walnut-garlic paste. Pkhali are herb and veggie spreads, lobio is slow-cooked beans, chakapuli is a spring lamb stew with tarragon. Churchkhela are walnut-and-grape must sweets. Wines such as Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Kindzmarauli, and Khvanchkara showcase both qvevri and European styles, and chacha is the potent pomace spirit. Lunch often runs 13:00-15:00, dinner from 19:00. Tipping 10 percent is customary if not included. Choose reputable kitchens, wash produce, and be cautious with raw dairy in summer heat.

Why visit
Georgia offers a rare fusion of ancient wine culture, soaring mountains, Black Sea breezes, stone towers, and heartfelt hospitality. Within a few hours you can move from subtropical gardens to alpine passes, tasting a living tradition at every table.

Safety for tourists
Georgia is generally safe, with low violent crime in tourist areas. Petty theft occurs in busy zones – keep valuables secure. Avoid travel near the administrative boundary lines with Abkhazia and South Ossetia and never attempt entry from Russia. Roads in mountains can be narrow and icy in winter and prone to rockfall in spring. Wildlife hazards are limited but include vipers and, in remote areas, bears and wolves that avoid humans. Stray dogs are common – give space and consider rabies precautions for extended rural stays. Public CCTV is common in cities. Food hygiene is good in established venues. The emergency number is 112.

Tourist infrastructure level
Tbilisi and Batumi offer accommodations from hostels to international five-star hotels, while Kutaisi, Mestia, and Stepantsminda have quality guesthouses and boutique stays. Service culture is warm and improving. English is widely spoken in tourism and among younger urban residents, while Russian is commonly understood. Regional areas may have simpler facilities and shorter opening hours.

Entry rules
Many nationalities enjoy visa-free stays, often up to one year, with e-visa options for others. Passports should be valid for the duration of stay plus a buffer. Customs allows limited duty-free alcohol and tobacco. Export of antiquities and cultural property requires permits. Drone operations are regulated – register when required, follow no-fly zones, and avoid borders, government facilities, and crowds.

Transport
International gateways include Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi airports. Tbilisi has a two-line metro, buses, and municipal minibuses, complemented by reliable ride-hailing apps. Georgian Railway links Tbilisi with Kutaisi, Batumi, and eastern towns, with online and station ticketing. Intercity movement relies heavily on marshrutkas and scheduled buses departing from city terminals; tickets are bought at kiosks or from drivers, usually in cash.

Car
Right-hand traffic and increasingly well-marked roads characterize main corridors, while mountain routes require caution. Car rental is available in major cities; an international driving permit is recommended. Local driving can be assertive, but traffic policing and speed cameras are widespread. Typical limits are 60 km h in urban areas, 90 km h on open roads, and up to 110 km h on expressways. Do not drink and drive. There are no nationwide toll roads. Winter tires or chains are essential for Gudauri, Bakuriani, Svaneti, and especially Tusheti’s Abano Pass, which is only for experienced 4×4 drivers in season. Parking in central Tbilisi is paid in marked zones. Dashcams are common, and fines can be settled electronically.

Quiet hours
Residential quiet hours generally run from around 23:00 to 07:00. Hotels and guesthouses post house rules, and city ordinances may vary slightly.

Daily tourist budget
Budget travel – about 80-150 GEL per day for hostels or simple guesthouses, public transport, and casual meals – roughly 30-55 USD depending on the rate. Mid range – about 180-350 GEL for boutique hotels, intercity travel, and guided tours – roughly 65-130 USD. High end – 450-900 GEL and above for upscale stays, fine dining, and private drivers – roughly 165-330 USD.

What is not recommended or prohibited
Do not attempt entry to Abkhazia or South Ossetia from Russia. Do not fly drones near borders, military or government facilities, or crowds without authorization. Do not photograph sensitive infrastructure. Possession of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited. In churches, avoid loud behavior and revealing attire. Collecting or exporting artifacts or fossils without permits is illegal.

Climate
Western Georgia has humid subtropical conditions with mild, wet winters and warm summers. Eastern Georgia is drier and more continental, with hot summers and colder winters. High mountains bring alpine climates, heavy snowfall, and short summers. The best all-around travel windows are May-June and September-October. July-August is ideal for the Black Sea and highland meadows, while December-March is ski season.

Tips for travelers
Arrange travel insurance covering medical care and mountain road delays. Ensure routine vaccines and consider hepatitis A and B; rabies pre-exposure is worth discussing for extended rural stays. Buy a local SIM for affordable data and navigation. Hydrate, use sun protection at altitude, and carry layers for mountain weather. Keep some cash for rural areas, and book remote region transport in advance. Learn a toast or two – gaumarjos – and let the supra do the rest.