Money plays an important role in any trip, especially international trips. Ok.. if we talk about international trips, the currency and exchange rate of the international destination controls the major part of the budget. As we find that Georgia is becoming a major holiday destination worldwide. Its natural beauty, architectural wonders, and beaches attract lots of tourists every year. This has increased the source of travel and tourism in Georgia. But what about the money, how can you control your budget in Georgia? If you are also planning to visit Georgia…. This blog will really help you. We will go through each detail of currency exchange in Georgia and help you to make your within your budget. First of all, choose your preferred Georgia tour package with us i.e.  The Travel Makers, known as the best travel agency in Dubai. The package will help you to get the best prices for travel services and we will help you with each step of the travel with our 24 / 7 customer service.

What is the currency in Georgia?

Lari (GEL) is the national currency of Georgia which was founded after 1990. Georgians and tourists use lari for payments for transportation, purchasing and so much more. You cannot use any other currency in the country. After entering Georgia, you need to exchange your money at the currency exchange centers in Georgia.

How much money you should carry in Georgia?

The answer to the question generally depends on individual preferences and type of travel. If you are with your family, you need to broaden your budget or if you are solo, you can concise your budget, etc. Three services in Georgia are a must for a traveler i.e. staying accommodation, food, and transfer services.

Here, we will have a brief on these services:

1. Staying accommodation: Tourists have the choice to stay in a hotel, hostel, or an apartment.

  • Hotel costs are included in the Georgia tour packages from Dubai by The Travel Makers.
  • For staying in a hostel, you need to spend a minimum of 20 GEL/ day.
  • Renting an apartment will charge you 100 to 150 GEL /day.

2. Food: Generally meals are included in the hotel accommodation, if not then you need to spend almost 40 GEL/day.

3. Transfer Services: This cost is dependent on the traveler’s choice of where he wants to head to.

What should you use Debit/Credit Card or cash?

In the major cities of Georgia, like Tbilisi, payments are accepted by card. At some small restaurants, shops, and small vendor markets, you need to make payment in cash. Other than in major cities, i.e. in small cities, there are fewer ATMs, so it is important to carry some cash to avoid any hindrance.

Currency Exchange in Georgia

In Georgia, tourists can exchange their money at banks, exchange offices, with currency exchangers, or at The Travel Makers (at some exchange rates).

Currency exchange counters in Georgia

There are various currency exchange centers can be found throughout the city. Some exchange offices are also available at the airports. But don’t expect to exchange because the exchange rates at the exchange offices would be unfavorable.           

Some points must be considered before getting to the exchange offices:

  1. Some offices claim to exchange currency free of cost, make sure with the staff that there are no hidden fees for the exchange.
  2. There would be different exchange rates at the exchange offices. Any slight difference in the rates may affect your budget so confirm it with the staff first.
  3. Exchange offices generally have working hours from 9 am to 8 pm, but some work till midnight.
  4. There is no need to provide a passport for currency exchange.

Banks in Georgia

There are various banks in Georgia, but two major banks are the National Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank where you can exchange your money at some favorable rates. Keep in mind that you need to show your passport for currency exchange. Banking working hours are from 9 am to 6 pm and some work on Saturdays too.

In the last, budget or currency plays an important role in the overall trip so don’t forget the tradition of bargaining and save money for the other expenses.