Your Daily Budget: A Quick Overview
Georgia remains one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe, though prices have seen a slight increase in recent years. For a budget-conscious backpacker focusing on hostels and local eateries, a daily budget of about 100-160 GEL ($40-60
USD) is a comfortable target. This will easily cover a dorm bed, bakery snacks, and hearty dinners. Mid-range travellers might spend between 210-370 GEL ($80-140 USD) per day for private guesthouse rooms and meals at sit-down restaurants. These figures provide a solid foundation for planning your expenses in both the bustling capital and the serene mountains.
Feasting in Tbilisi: A Food Lover's Budget
Tbilisi’s food scene is a highlight, and you don’t need to spend much to enjoy it. Start your day at a local bakery, where a fresh cheese-filled khachapuri or a bean-stuffed lobiani will only set you back 3-8 GEL. For lunch or dinner, the iconic khinkali (soup dumplings) are a must-try. Priced per piece, they typically cost 1.5-2.5 GEL each, with most restaurants requiring a minimum order of five. A satisfying meal of khinkali can cost as little as 10-15 GEL. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant, including a couple of dishes and wine, will generally range from 60-80 GEL. To save money, avoid the more tourist-heavy areas of the Old Town where prices can be inflated.
Hostel Stays in the Capital
Tbilisi has a vibrant and growing hostel scene, offering excellent value for travellers. A bed in a well-rated dormitory can be found for as little as 20-40 GEL ($7-15 USD) per night. Many hostels, like the popular Fabrika Hostel, are located in central areas, providing a great base for exploring the city. For those seeking more privacy, private rooms in hostels or budget guesthouses are also plentiful, with prices generally ranging from 65-120 GEL ($25-45 USD) per room. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best prices and locations.
Cuisine in the Caucasus: Eating in Kazbegi
When you travel from Tbilisi to the mountain town of Stepantsminda (the main hub in the Kazbegi region), you'll find that food prices can be slightly higher, but still very reasonable. Many travellers opt to stay in guesthouses that offer meals. A home-cooked breakfast or dinner at a guesthouse typically costs around 20-30 GEL per meal and offers an authentic taste of Georgian hospitality. These meals are often generous and more diverse than what you might get for the same price at a local restaurant. If you do eat out, expect restaurant prices to be comparable to or slightly higher than in non-tourist areas of Tbilisi. The marshrutka (minibus) ride from Tbilisi to Kazbegi itself is very affordable, usually costing around 15 GEL.
Accommodation in the Mountains: Kazbegi Guesthouses
In Kazbegi, traditional hostels are less common than family-run guesthouses, which offer a similar budget-friendly experience with a more personal touch. A bed or simple private room in a guesthouse in Stepantsminda or the surrounding villages can range from 30-70 GEL ($11-25 USD) per person. Many of these guesthouses, such as Homestay or Family Hostel Nika, receive excellent reviews for their hospitality and stunning mountain views. Opting for a guesthouse that includes breakfast or half-board (breakfast and dinner) can be a great way to manage your food budget while enjoying delicious, home-cooked Georgian food.
Top Tips for Saving Money
To make your lari go further, keep a few tips in mind. Use public transport like the metro in Tbilisi, which costs only 1 GEL per ride. For travel between cities, marshrutkas are the most budget-friendly option. Take advantage of free walking tours in Tbilisi to get your bearings without spending a fortune. When it comes to food, eating at local bakeries and avoiding tourist traps in the main squares will significantly cut down your costs. Finally, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and accommodation prices are often lower than in the summer high season.
