Skip to Content

Tourism in Georgia (the country not the state)

Liked this article? Click to share!

Tourism in Georgia is big business! But why is this industry so important and why does it matter? Read on to find out…

Overview of Georgia (country)

Georgia is a country located in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The country is bordered by Russia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Armenia to the south, and Turkey and the Black Sea to the west.

Georgia has a diverse geography that includes both mountains and coastline. The Caucasus Mountains run through the northern part of the country, with the highest peak being Mount Shkhara at 5,201 meters (17,059 feet) above sea level. The mountain ranges also include several glaciers and alpine lakes.

In the central part of Georgia, there are several river valleys, including the Kura River valley, which is the longest river in the country. The southern part of Georgia is characterized by the Lesser Caucasus Mountains and the fertile lowlands of the Colchis and Meskheti regions.

The country’s coastline stretches along the Black Sea, with several major port cities including Batumi and Poti. The Black Sea region is known for its subtropical climate and popular beach resorts.

Overall, Georgia’s geography is diverse and offers a range of natural landscapes and resources, including forests, rivers, mountains, mineral resources, and agricultural land.

The tourism industry in Georgia (country) 

Tourism has become an important industry in Georgia, with the country attracting a growing number of international visitors in recent years. Here are some statistics on the tourism industry in Georgia:

  1. In 2019, Georgia welcomed a record 9.4 million international visitors, a 7.7% increase from the previous year.
  2. The largest number of visitors to Georgia come from neighboring countries, including Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. However, the number of visitors from Europe, Asia, and other regions has been increasing in recent years.
Tourism in Georgia
Travel Lemming

3. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, accounting for around 7% of GDP in 2019.

4. The government of Georgia has made efforts to develop the tourism industry, including investing in infrastructure and promoting the country’s cultural and natural attractions.

5. The most popular destinations for tourists in Georgia include Tbilisi, the capital city, the wine region of Kakheti, the seaside city of Batumi, and the mountainous region of Svaneti.

6. Georgia offers a range of cultural and natural attractions, including ancient monasteries and churches, scenic landscapes, and traditional cuisine and wine.

Overall, tourism is an important industry in Georgia, with the potential for further growth as the country continues to promote its attractions and develop its infrastructure.

There are several popular types of tourism in Georgia:

  1. Cultural tourism: Georgia has a rich cultural heritage and a long history, with many ancient churches, monasteries, and historical sites to explore. Visitors can learn about Georgian culture and traditions, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
  2. Nature tourism: Georgia is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers, and beaches. Visitors can go hiking, skiing, or mountain biking in the mountains, explore the country’s national parks, or relax on the Black Sea coast.
  3. Adventure tourism: Georgia offers a range of outdoor activities, including white-water rafting, paragliding, and rock climbing. Visitors can challenge themselves while enjoying the country’s stunning scenery.
Tourism in Georgia
On His Own Trip
  1. Wine tourism: Georgia has a long tradition of winemaking, with several wine regions to explore, including Kakheti and Kartli. Visitors can taste local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine.
  2. Health and wellness tourism: Georgia is known for its natural hot springs and healing mineral waters. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the country’s many spas and resorts.
  3. Religious tourism: Georgia is home to several important religious sites, including the ancient monasteries of Davit Gareja and Gelati, as well as the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta. Visitors can explore these sites and learn about the country’s religious history and traditions.

Overall, Georgia offers a range of tourism experiences, from cultural and historical sites to outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Georgia:

  1. Old Town Tbilisi: The historic district of Tbilisi, the capital city, features winding streets, colorful buildings, and a mix of architectural styles.
  1. Kazbegi: This mountainous region is known for its stunning scenery, including the towering Mount Kazbek and the Gergeti Trinity Church.
Tourism in Georgia
Wander Lush

3. Svaneti: Located in the Caucasus Mountains, Svaneti is home to several picturesque villages and historic defensive towers.

  1. Uplistsikhe: This ancient cave city, located near the town of Gori, dates back to the 1st millennium BC and features rock-cut structures and tunnels.
  1. Vardzia: This cave city, located in southern Georgia, was built in the 12th century and features rock-cut churches, living quarters, and irrigation systems.
  2. Batumi: This coastal city on the Black Sea features a mix of modern and historic architecture, as well as beaches, parks, and cultural attractions.
  1. David Gareja Monastery: This complex of rock-hewn monasteries and churches, located in eastern Georgia, dates back to the 6th century.
  2. Signagi: This small town in the wine region of Kakheti features a picturesque old town, traditional architecture, and views of the surrounding countryside.
  3. Mtskheta: This ancient capital of Georgia features several important religious sites, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the Jvari Monastery.
  4. Georgian National Museum: This museum in Tbilisi features exhibits on Georgian art, history, and culture.

These are just a few examples of the many popular tourist attractions in Georgia. The country offers a range of cultural, natural, and historical sites for visitors to explore.

What types of tourists travel to Georgia (country)

Georgia, the country located in the Caucasus region, has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. The types of tourists who travel to Georgia can vary widely, but some common categories include:

  1. Cultural tourists: Georgia is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, such as ancient churches and monasteries, museums, and traditional festivals. Cultural tourists are drawn to Georgia for its unique cultural heritage and the opportunity to experience a different way of life.
  2. Adventure tourists: Georgia’s rugged terrain and scenic landscapes make it an ideal destination for adventure tourists. Activities such as hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, skiing, and white-water rafting are popular among adventure tourists who come to Georgia.
  3. Food and wine tourists: Georgia is known for its unique cuisine and wine culture. Food and wine tourists come to Georgia to explore its rich culinary traditions and to taste local specialties like khinkali, khachapuri, and Georgian wines.
  4. Nature tourists: Georgia is a land of stunning natural beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush forests to sandy beaches. Nature tourists come to Georgia to explore its national parks, wildlife reserves, and other natural wonders.
  1. Business tourists: Georgia is also becoming a hub for business tourism, as it offers numerous business opportunities and a favorable investment climate. Business tourists come to Georgia to attend conferences, seminars, and other business-related events.

Overall, Georgia offers something for everyone, and its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty attracts a diverse range of tourists from around the world.

Tourism in Georgia

Impacts of tourism in Georgia

The Republic of Georgia’s burgeoning tourism industry presents a multifaceted array of impacts, affecting the environment, society, and the economy in numerous ways. These effects, both positive and negative, are pivotal in shaping the country’s future.

Environmental Impacts: Positive:

  • Conservation Funding: Revenue from tourism can be reinvested into the conservation of Georgia’s rich natural landscapes and biodiversity, helping to maintain national parks and protect endangered species.
  • Sustainable Development: Tourism in Georgia has the potential to promote sustainability, encouraging investment in eco-friendly infrastructure and practices that minimize the ecological footprint.

Negative:

  • Environmental Degradation: Influxes of tourists can lead to littering, pollution, and habitat destruction, particularly in sensitive areas like the Caucasus Mountains.
  • Resource Pressure: Tourists can significantly increase the demand for water and energy, exacerbating resource scarcity, especially in rural and environmentally fragile regions.

Social Impacts: Positive:

  • Cultural Revitalization: International interest in Georgia’s unique culture can lead to the revitalization of traditional crafts, music, dance, and language, as these are integral to the tourism experience.
  • Community Development: Some tourism initiatives focus on community development, directly benefiting local populations by involving them in tourism-related activities.

Negative:

  • Cultural Displacement: The commercialization of cultural elements to suit tourist expectations can lead to a loss of authenticity and the erosion of genuine traditions.
  • Gentrification: As tourism in Georgia drives up property values, particularly in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, there is a risk of gentrification, making these areas unaffordable for long-term residents.

Economic Impacts: Positive:

  • Economic Boost: Tourism in Georgia is one of the fastest-growing economic sectors, creating jobs and spurring investment in infrastructure.
  • Diversification of Economy: By reducing reliance on traditional sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, tourism in Georgia helps diversify the economy, providing resilience against economic downturns.

Negative:

  • Income Inequality: Economic benefits from tourism in Georgia may not be evenly distributed, often favoring business owners and investors over employees and small communities.
  • Market Volatility: Reliance on tourism in Georgia makes the economy susceptible to global fluctuations, such as those caused by geopolitical tensions or pandemics, leading to instability in local livelihoods.

Tourism in Georgia is a complex sector with the potential to influence the country’s trajectory significantly. The interplay of its impacts necessitates balanced management to ensure that while the country welcomes tourists and reaps the economic benefits, it also conserves its environmental treasures, upholds its social fabric, and ensures the equitable distribution of its newfound wealth. This delicate balancing act is crucial for Georgia’s ambition to become a sustainable tourism hub without compromising the aspects that make it uniquely attractive to visitors.

Tourism in Georgia
buysites

10 FAQs about tourism in Georgia (country)

Here are 10 frequently asked questions about tourism in Georgia:

  1. Is Georgia a safe country for tourists to visit?

Yes, Georgia is generally considered a safe country for tourists to visit. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

  1. What is the best time of year to visit Georgia?

The best time to visit Georgia is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, in the mountainous regions, it can get cold even during the summer.

  1. Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?

Visa requirements for Georgia depend on your nationality. Most western countries have visa-free entry for up to 365 days. Check with the Georgian embassy or consulate in your country for specific visa requirements.

  1. What is the local currency in Georgia?

The currency in Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL).

  1. What are some must-see attractions in Georgia?

Some must-see attractions in Georgia include the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe, the picturesque town of Sighnaghi, and the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church.

  1. Is it easy to travel around Georgia?

Yes, it’s relatively easy to travel around Georgia. Taxis are widely available, and public transportation includes buses, minibusses, and a metro system in Tbilisi.

  1. What is Georgian cuisine like?

Georgian cuisine is famous for its unique blend of flavors, including herbs, spices, and fruits, and is considered one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. Make sure to try Khachapuri, Khinkali, and wine, which is an integral part of Georgian culture.

  1. What language do people speak in Georgia?

The official language is Georgian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

  1. Is it necessary to speak Georgian to get around in the country?

No, it’s not necessary to speak Georgian to get around in the country. Most people in tourist areas speak English, and signs and menus are often in both Georgian and English.

  1. What is the dress code in Georgia?

The dress code in Georgia is generally casual, but it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites. Women are expected to cover their heads and wear long skirts or pants, while men should cover their heads and wear long pants.

To conclude: Tourism in Georgia

As you can see, tourism in Georgia is big business! However, there are many aspects that require careful and strategic management to ensure sustainable principles are practiced.

If you enjoyed this article about tourism in Georgia, I am sure you will love these too:

Liked this article? Click to share!

Posted on Last updated: