Arriving at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) marks the start of your Georgian adventure. Getting to the city center, or onward to other destinations, is generally straightforward, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. This guide will help you understand your choices, from readily available taxis to more economical public transport, and give you a realistic idea of travel times and costs.
Official taxi stands are clearly marked and usually located just outside the arrivals area. These are the most convenient option for a direct transfer, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group. Don’t accept offers from individuals approaching you inside the terminal; always head for the designated taxi rank. Before you start your journey, confirm the approximate fare with the driver. While meters are sometimes used, it’s common to negotiate a price beforehand. Expect to pay between 25 and 40 USD for a trip to the city center, depending on traffic.
For peace of mind, especially if arriving late at night, a pre-booked private transfer is a great choice. These services typically include a driver meeting you inside the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name. When booking, double-check the meeting point details and ensure the price is all-inclusive, covering any potential airport fees or tolls. Prices for private transfers generally range from 30 to 50 USD, depending on the vehicle type and distance. Confirming the vehicle size is also a good idea if you have a lot of luggage.
If you’re on a tighter budget, shared shuttles (often minibuses, known locally as 'marshrutkas') are a viable option. These operate on fixed routes and are considerably cheaper than taxis or private transfers, costing around 5 to 10 USD. However, they may involve multiple stops and can take longer, especially during peak hours. Public transport, including buses and the metro, is also available, requiring a short walk or transfer from the airport. A journey using public transport will likely cost under 2 USD, but requires more planning and may not be ideal with heavy luggage. The metro is a fast and efficient way to reach central locations if your hotel is near a station.
Travel time to the city center typically ranges from 20 to 45 minutes by taxi or private transfer, depending on traffic conditions. Shared shuttles can take 45 to 60 minutes, while public transport may take an hour or more. Rush hour (typically 8:00-10:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) will significantly increase travel times.
From Tbilisi International Airport, you can easily reach nearby cities like Mtskheta (around 30-45 minutes by taxi, 15-25 USD), Rustavi (45-60 minutes, 30-40 USD), and Gori (1.5-2 hours, 50-70 USD). Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey to these destinations.
| Option | Time Range | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-45 minutes | 25-40 |
| Private Transfer | 20-45 minutes | 30-50 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-60 minutes | 5-10 |
| Train/Metro | 60+ minutes | Under 2 |
| Bus | 60+ minutes | Under 2 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Official taxi stands are located just outside the arrivals area. Look for clearly marked signs.
It’s best to avoid individuals offering taxi services inside the terminal. Use the official taxi stands instead.
A 'marshrutka' is a shared minibus, a common and affordable form of public transport in Georgia.
Expect to pay between 25 and 40 USD, but always confirm the price with the driver beforehand.
Pre-booking offers peace of mind, especially for late arrivals, and often includes a meet-and-greet service.
Typically 20 to 45 minutes, but this can vary significantly depending on traffic.
Public transport can be challenging with heavy luggage due to potential transfers and walking.
Ride-hailing apps are available, but pickup locations may be slightly away from the immediate terminal area.
Most reputable transfer companies monitor flight arrivals and will adjust accordingly. Check their policy when booking.
Yes, there are several ATMs available in the arrivals area.
A taxi is the most convenient option for reaching Mtskheta, taking around 30-45 minutes.