
In this article, I share our method for cheap car rental in Georgia. If you want to experience an incredible adventure in this Caucasian country, you should definitely consider renting a car! It is by far the best form of transportation, allowing you to reach places that are otherwise inaccessible (or difficult to reach) by public transport.

## Use a Local Rental Company!

Our research shows that small, local rental companies offer the best prices. The companies most popular among international visitors to Georgia often have much less favorable offers! Meanwhile, large international rental companies frequently require additional paid insurance or a mandatory deposit.

To find a cheap car from a local rental company in Georgia, I recommend using the [**LocalRent**](https://localrent.com/l/d273/) search engine. Thanks to this platform, we have saved a lot of money on every rental! [LocalRent](https://localrent.com/l/d273/) aggregates offers from local rental companies, allowing you to choose the one with the best prices for your chosen dates. There's no need to browse dozens of rental websites—everything is in one place! You can check prices and other booking details below:

<script src="https://static.localrent.com/widget/v3/app.js" async data-mrc="true" data-affiliate="6957" data-apikey="kaniewskadagmara_gmail_com" data-apisign="3277f542021373bba9ced6fb69a6c3a6" data-country="124" data-city="106531" data-lang="en" data-background="light" data-cars="true" data-marker="gex"></script>

## Rental Conditions in Georgia via LocalRent

As you can see above, the prices are really great, especially compared to other well-known rental companies here. Additionally, the longer you rent a car, the lower the daily rate will be. Booking well in advance can also positively impact the price.

When booking a car through LocalRent, you're actually renting from a local company in a given city. Pay attention to the type and scope of insurance when making a reservation. I also recommend selecting the option to have the car delivered to the airport upon your arrival. Depending on the rental company, this option may be free or come with a small fee (usually $5–15). Alternatively, you can have the car delivered to your chosen address in the city or pick it up at the rental office.

All reservations can be canceled for free up to **7 days** before the pickup date (or **30 days** for SUV and Luxury categories). Many cars also include a free cancellation option up to **24 hours** before pickup—you'll recognize this by the green "free cancellation" label.

![Rent a car in Tbilisi, Kutaisi Georgia](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cheap-car-rental-in-georgia-localrent-cars.png)

Most offers **do not require a security deposit**. When making a reservation, you only pay a **small advance payment** (usually about 15–20% of the total amount). If you cancel within the allowed timeframe, the deposit is fully refunded. The remaining amount is paid upon car pickup (in cash, sometimes by card—check the reservation details). Before the pickup date, a local rental company representative will contact you to arrange the details. Make sure to provide your **WhatsApp or Telegram** number in the reservation form.

As with all services worldwide, I encourage you to read the **full rental terms** [on the LocalRent website](https://localrent.com/l/d273/).

In **2023 alone**, we used their services **six times** and were always satisfied. In every case (both in and out of season), their prices were unbeatable compared to other rental companies.

![Cheap car rental in Georgia](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/where-to-rent-cheap-car-in-georgia.jpg)

## Car Rental in Georgia – Useful Tips

Here are some additional tips from our experience:

- Check if **a 4×4 vehicle is required** for your planned routes. Most roads in Georgia are in good condition, but some destinations require or highly benefit from an all-wheel-drive vehicle.
- Most rental companies **prohibit driving on the most challenging mountain roads** (e.g., the road to Omalo). Even if allowed, we recommend hiring a jeep with an experienced driver for such routes.
- Upon receiving the car, **take photos or record a video** of the entire exterior and interior. This can be helpful in case of disputes over damages. We never had issues, but it's always better to be safe!

## Why Rent a Car in Georgia?

Driving a rental car allows you to explore Georgia **at your own pace**. The independence and flexibility to plan your road trip exactly as you wish are priceless! Many beautiful places in Georgia are difficult, time-consuming, or even impossible to reach using public transport. Having your own vehicle will save you a lot of time.

In many cases, renting a car **can also save you money**, especially if you're traveling in a group. Additionally, fuel prices are relatively low:

- Diesel: **~1.1 USD/liter**
- Gasoline: **~1.2 USD/liter**

All roads in Georgia **are toll-free**.

![Car rental in Kutaisi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/local-rent-georgia.jpg)

## What's Driving Like in Georgia?

Before you decide to rent a car in Georgia, remember that **driving habits here are quite different** from what you might be used to in Europe or in the US. This isn't surprising, given that until April 2022, the practical driving exam in Georgia **only took place on a closed ground**… 🙈 Keep this in mind while navigating Georgian roads 😅

- Georgian drivers **don't consider other road users much**. Their main goal is to get from **point A to point B as quickly as possible**, with as few stops as possible.
- **Honking is common**. Drivers honk to remind others about a green light, greet friends, or just out of boredom in traffic. Don't worry—it usually doesn't mean anything negative 😉
- **Turn signals are rarely used properly**. Many drivers signal only at the very moment they start turning. Always **keep a safe distance** from other vehicles.

That said, **you'll quickly adapt**! After a few hours of driving in Georgia, you'll understand the local style and unspoken rules. I actually enjoy driving here—it's dynamic but fun!

![Car rental in Tbilisi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cheap-car-rental-tbilisi-kutaisi-768x576.jpg)

![Car hire in Tbilisi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cheap-cars-in-georgia-768x576.jpg)

## Do You Need International Driving License in Georgia?

Formally, you don't need International Driving License (or IDP – International Driving Permit) to legally drive a car in Georgia, as long as your national license in written in Latin characters. However, it's always good to have an IDP as it also serves as an official translation of your national driving license. If you're planning driving in Georgia for longer periods or also visiting other countries around, getting an IDP may be a good idea. However, as mentioned, you should be fine with your valid national driving license.

I hope you found this article useful. If you have any questions and would like to share your experience with car rental in Georgia – let us know in the comments below! 🙂


Cheap Car Rental in Georgia


**Georgia by car?** There's no better way to explore this picturesque country! Before you book your rental and plan your road trip, it's essential to know what to expect on Georgian roads. We've prepared **10 key tips** to make your journey smoother and ensure that traveling around **Georgia by car** is both comfortable and safe.

### 1. Don't Fully Trust Navigation Apps

When planning your trip **around Georgia by car**, don't rely too much on travel times suggested by navigation apps like Google Maps—especially in the mountains! In reality, **drive times can be twice as long** due to winding roads, ongoing repairs, and heavy seasonal traffic on popular routes. Always factor in extra time for unexpected delays and scenic stops 😉

![Georgia by car. Cheap car rental Tbilisi Kutaisi Batumi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cheap-car-rental-tbilisi-kutaisi-1.jpg)

### 2. Choose the Right Car

Georgia is a land of contrasts—especially when it comes to roads. You'll find **modern highways** as well as **unpaved, mountainous trails**. If you're staying in cities, a standard sedan will do, but to reach some of Georgia's most stunning locations, you may need a **4×4 vehicle**.

We recommend renting from **a local car rental service** via the [LocalRent comparison tool](https://localrent.com/l/d273/). This platform gathers various Georgian rental companies, allowing you to find the best prices for your selected dates ↓

<script src="https://static.localrent.com/widget/v3/app.js" async data-mrc="true" data-affiliate="6957" data-apikey="kaniewskadagmara_gmail_com" data-apisign="3277f542021373bba9ced6fb69a6c3a6" data-country="124" data-city="106531" data-lang="en" data-background="light" data-cars="true" data-marker="gex"></script>

Notice how low car rental prices can be in Georgia with a local rental company! Especially compared to other, larger, and more well-known firms here. We wrote more about cheap car rentals in Georgia [here](/cheap-car-rental-in-georgia).

### 3. Download Offline Maps

When **navigating Georgia by car**, it's a good idea to **download offline maps** in advance. Mobile signal can be weak, especially in the mountains. Apps like **Google Maps** and **Maps.me** allow you to store maps on your device for offline use, ensuring you never get lost. Make sure to download them before coming.

### 4. Watch Out for Animals on the Road

Traveling through Georgia by car means breathtaking landscapes—but also unexpected road hazards, like **cows, sheep, and even pigs wandering onto the road** 😀 Stay alert, especially in rural areas where free-roaming animals are common.

![Georgia by car](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/georgia-by-car.jpg)

### 5. Adapt to the Georgian Driving Style

Driving in Georgia can feel like a free-for-all 😀 **Traffic rules are often ignored**—lanes, right of way, and turn signals are all considered optional. At intersections, the unwritten rule is often **"whoever goes first, wins"**. Many drivers tailgate aggressively and frequently honk. Our advice? **Stay calm, keep your distance, and go with the flow.** You'll get used to it, it's even quite fun! 😄

### 6. Don't Worry About Honking

**Expect constant honking when driving in Georgia!** But don't take it personally—locals use their horns for all sorts of reasons: reminding others about a green light, greeting friends, or just passing time in traffic. In Georgia, the horn is simply part of the driving experience 😉

### 7. Obey Speed Limits to Avoid Fines

To avoid unexpected fines while exploring Georgia by car, always stick to the speed limits. **Speed cameras are widespread**, often unmarked.

Also, check whether your rental car's speedometer displays kilometers or miles—many vehicles in Georgia are imported and may have speedometers set to miles, while all local speed limits are in km/h.

### 8. Get Full Insurance Coverage

Given the unpredictable driving conditions, we strongly recommend **renting a car with full insurance**. This way, if an accident or minor damage occurs, you won't have to worry about repair costs. Always check the insurance terms carefully, and ideally, opt for **zero-deductible coverage**.

![Where to rent cheap car in Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi Georgia](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/where-to-rent-cheap-car-in-batumi-tbilisi-georgia.jpg)

### 9. Always Carry Some Cash

Although most places in Georgia accept card payments, **it's wise to have cash on hand**, especially if you need roadside assistance in remote areas. Small mechanical repairs are often cheap—**we once got a tire fixed for just a few lari!** We recommend withdrawing **Georgian lari (GEL) from an ATM** upon arrival. If withdrawing larger sums, consider using a **multi-currency card** like Revolut for better exchange rates.

### 10. Enjoy the Freedom!

The best part of traveling around Georgia by car is the **absolute freedom**. You can **stop wherever you want**, venture off the beaten path, and explore hidden gems that [public transport](/transport-in-georgia) simply doesn't reach. With stunning landscapes, incredible cultural sites, and warm hospitality, **Georgia is best discovered on four wheels.**

Georgia by car is an unforgettable experience, offering flexibility, adventure, and access to some of the country's most breathtaking locations. By following these **10 tips**, you'll be well-prepared for an amazing road trip through this beautiful country. Happy travels!


Georgia by Car – 10 Essential Tips


Living in Georgia, we have tested every available mode of transport. From budget options like hitchhiking and marshrutkas to the most convenient choices like car rentals, we've experienced it all. We have traveled through major cities (Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi) as well as small villages, reaching some of the most remote attractions. **In this article, I will explain what transport in Georgia looks like in 2025 – the available options, prices, and practical tips for navigating Georgian roads.**

## Car Rental in Georgia

**An absolute must-do!** Renting a car in Georgia, even for a few days, is a game-changer. The freedom to explore, the ability to reach places untouched by mass tourism, and **the thrill of off-the-beaten-path adventures – it's an experience worth having!**

For booking a car in Georgia, **we recommend [LocalRent](https://localrent.com/l/d273/)**. It's an aggregator of local rental companies that has been operating since 2011. LocalRent allows you to book vehicles from smaller Georgian rental agencies that offer **excellent prices**! Check below by entering your preferred dates and pick-up location↓

<script src="https://static.localrent.com/widget/v3/app.js" async data-mrc="true" data-affiliate="6957" data-apikey="kaniewskadagmara_gmail_com" data-apisign="3277f542021373bba9ced6fb69a6c3a6" data-country="124" data-city="106531" data-lang="en" data-background="light" data-cars="true" data-marker="gex"></script>

Prices depend on the car model, rental duration, and season. Here are some example prices for 2025:

- A sedan in August for 7 days, pick-up and drop-off in Tbilisi: from $25 / €22 per day.
- A 4×4 SUV in August for 7 days, pick-up and drop-off in Kutaisi: from $33 / €30 per day.

When booking, pay attention to the type of insurance. Most offers do not require a deposit and have no mileage limits. Some restricted routes include extreme roads like Omalo or Ushguli (check [rental terms](https://localrent.com/en/georgia/terms/?r=6957) for details). A great option is having the car delivered to the airport or any address in the city.

All reservations can be canceled free of charge up to 7 days before the rental period starts, with a full refund. Many listings also offer extended free cancellation (selectable in search filters), allowing cancellation up to 24 hours before the rental begins!

A common myth about driving in Georgia is that it's dangerous and lawless. While the driving style is dynamic and intuitive, there are still rules – just not always strictly followed. Honking and flashing headlights don't mean anything bad here!

You can book a car via LocalRent **[here (click the link)](https://localrent.com/l/d273/)**.

![Cheap car rental in Georgia](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/local-rent-georgia.jpg)

## Marshrutkas – Popular Transport in Georgia

A true classic of Georgian roads! If you're unsure how to get somewhere, a marshrutka is always a good answer 😁. **This mode of transport is something you either love or hate**. Either you'll enjoy the thrill of overtaking with a phone in one hand and sacks of goods crammed under every seat, or you won't. We've used marshrutkas many times and are big fans! They add a bit of adrenaline, have no impossible routes, and the drivers blast Georgian music for passengers.

Marshrutkas don't operate on strict schedules – they depart when full. Here are some popular routes and prices:

- Tbilisi – Stepantsminda (Kazbegi): 15 GEL (~$5.50)
- Tbilisi – Zugdidi: 25 GEL (~$9)
- Tbilisi – Kutaisi: 20 GEL (~$7)
- Tbilisi – Mtskheta: 2 GEL (~$0.70)
- Batumi – Kutaisi: 15 GEL (~$5.50)

**The largest marshrutka hub in Tbilisi is [Didube Station](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Didube+Bus+Terminal/@41.7522903,44.7785941,15z/data=!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x0:0xc220ceffec9fbbc1!2sDidube+Bus+Terminal!8m2!3d41.7520135!4d44.77904!3m4!1s0x0:0xc220ceffec9fbbc1!8m2!3d41.7520135!4d44.77904)**, easily accessible by metro (Didube stop).

## Mini Vans

Mini vans are usually found wherever marshrutkas operate. Their drivers will spot you as soon as you appear. Prices are typically a few GEL higher than marshrutkas, justified by better comfort. We used a mini van only once, on the Batumi – Kutaisi route. The cost was just 2 GEL higher than a marshrutka for the same route (in 2019).

![Transport in Georgia - minivan in Batumi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/georgia-transport-minivan-batumi.jpeg)

## Buses

Buses are a well-developed mode of transport in Georgia. In recent years, old buses in the capital have been replaced with new, air-conditioned ones. **In major cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, they provide excellent coverage**. The best way to check schedules is via electronic timetables at bus stops or Google Maps. You'll need a reusable plastic card to use public transport, though it's not mandatory.

![Bus in Tbilisi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tbilisi-bus.jpeg)

### Public Transport in Tbilisi

**You can buy a transport card at any metro station kiosk for 2 GEL ($0.70)**. You can top it up immediately with any amount at orange ticket machines, which are widely available. Note that they do not give change! To validate a ticket, simply tap your loaded card on the bus reader. The fare will be deducted, and the remaining balance will be displayed. **A single ride costs 1 GEL ($0.35).**

**A card is not necessary, though**. You can also pay directly in the bus by tapping a Visa or MasterCard on the reader. In this case, the fare is 1.5 GEL (~$0.50).

![Tbilisi transport card](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tbilisi-transport-card.jpg)

![Public bus and minibus in Tbilisi](https://georgiaexplorers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tbilisi-transport-bus-minibus.jpg)

### Public Transport in Batumi

You can purchase and top up a public transport card at the newer **orange ticket machines** located on sidewalks. The cost is **2 GEL (~$0.7)**. We also found information online that the card can be bought at the **'Metro Service +' point** located at **[55 Gorgasali Street](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Batumi+Metro+service+Plus/@41.6461083,41.6326205,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x406787432e2d4541:0x63446cf7688b9c6c!8m2!3d41.6461296!4d41.6347878)**.

Tickets are **validated** on buses the same way as mentioned in the previous section. A **single ride costs 0.3 GEL (~$0.1)**. Buses in **Batumi** have also been replaced with **newer models** and can be relied on.

### Metro in Tbilisi

Transportation in Georgia also includes the metro—granted, only in the capital, but hey, it's something! 😉 There are **two lines operating daily from 6:00 AM to midnight**. It's an old and very loud mode of transport, but it runs quite efficiently! Plus, during the summer season, it provides a nice, refreshing coolness 😉. The same card mentioned in the section about Tbilisi buses is used for the metro. You need to tap it at the gates upon entering the metro station. **The fare is 1 GEL ($0.35).**

### Taxis

You already know that public transport in Georgia is very affordable. But what about taxis? They won't break the bank either! **Short trips within the city typically cost just a few dollars**. I recommended the **Bolt** app, which we use regularly in Georgia 😉

### Trains – A Surprisingly Good Transport Option in Georgia

**This was our biggest surprise among all modes of transport in Georgia**! The train on the **Tbilisi-Batumi** route turned out to be a **very modern, punctual, and well-equipped** one. We used it twice, and each time, it arrived at the Tbilisi station well before the scheduled departure. A staff member had a printed list of passengers and checked off each person before boarding.

A **second-class seat** cost us **35 GEL (~$13)**, while **first class** was **75 GEL (~$27)**. The train was double-decker, had **WiFi** (which didn't work well 😁), **air conditioning, power outlets, and plenty of legroom**. The **370 km** journey takes about **5 hours**. **Tickets can be [purchased online](https://tkt.ge/railway?culture=en)**.

Our next train experience was traveling between **Georgia and Azerbaijan** (in 2019). This time, we weren't as lucky and ended up with an **older train model**, but it was still quite decent. Ticket prices vary depending on the class:

- **First class** – two-person compartment with two single beds – **79 GEL (~$28**) **per person**
- **Second class** – four-person compartment with two bunk beds – **57 GEL (~$20**) **per person**
- **Third class** – shared space with bunk beds – **38 GEL (~$14**) **per person**

Tickets can be purchased at the **[Station Square railway station](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tbilisi+Transport+Company/@41.7218638,44.7940842,16.36z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xeee58bc181fd4341!8m2!3d41.7222862!4d44.7975606) in Tbilisi**.

On our way to **Baku**, we traveled in **first class (luxury option)**. On the way back, we wanted to try a cheaper alternative for comparison and bought **third-class tickets**. We're not particularly picky when it comes to comfort, and we have to admit that **both options were totally fine**. The beds, tables, and bedding were similar or even identical regardless of ticket type. The only difference was the number of people around 😉

### Hitchhiking

From friends, I know that **hitchhiking in Georgia is very common and efficient**. We personally tested it on the **Georgian Military Highway**, specifically on the **Gudauri-Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi) route**. It was our first time hitchhiking, and everything went smoothly! It's a great option for budget travelers looking to explore Georgia far and wide.

If you plan to hitchhike, I recommend bringing **small souvenirs** to give to drivers who lend a helping hand. A small gesture like that will surely leave a good impression and bring a smile to the faces of Georgians, who, in general, have a lot of love for tourists 😉.

If you have any questions about transportation or traveling in Georgia in general, feel free to ask. I'm happy to help in the comments! 😉


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Latest Articles

Cheap Car Rental in Georgia

Georgia by Car – 10 Essential Tips

Transport in Georgia – Prices and Types