Tbilisi Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Tbilisi.
Healthcare System
Georgia has a mix of public and private healthcare. The public system is underfunded and often lacks resources. Tourists and most locals rely on the modern private healthcare sector, which is concentrated in Tbilisi and has a good standard of care at relatively low costs compared to Western Europe or North America.
Hospitals
For serious issues, head to a major private hospital: Evex Hospital, MediClub Georgia, or American Hospital Tbilisi are recommended. They have emergency departments and can handle most needs. It's advised to go directly rather than wait for a public ambulance.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Aptiaqi) are widespread. Common medications (painkillers, antibiotics) are available over-the-counter without a prescription. Pharmacists are often helpful. Look for chains like PSP or GPC.
Insurance
Not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and treatment at private hospitals. Many hospitals will expect upfront payment or proof of insurance coverage.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a copy of your insurance policy and the emergency contact number.
- For minor ailments, consult a pharmacist first—they can often provide suitable medication.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
The most common crime facing tourists. Occurs in crowded markets, on the metro ( the Saburtalo line), buses, and in busy tourist restaurants/bars.
Driving standards are aggressive. Pedestrian crossings are not always respected. Roads and pavements, in the Old Town, can be uneven, damaged, or slippery.
While generally safe, excessive drinking can lead to vulnerability. Some bars in tourist areas may have inflated prices or push expensive bottle service.
Tap water in Tbilisi is generally safe to drink but has a distinct mineral taste due to the source. Some travelers may experience mild stomach upset from the change in diet, rich food, or natural mineral waters.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Unmetered taxis ( at the airport or station) quote exorbitant fares to tourists. Drivers may claim the meter is 'broken'.
A friendly local (or pair) invites you to a specific bar or club. Once there, you are encouraged to order drinks (often for the 'friends' too) and later presented with a hugely inflated bill, with intimidation to pay.
Due to the large denomination of the Georgian Lari (GEL), scammers may try to confuse you by giving change in a different currency (e.g., Russian Rubles or old Georgian notes) or short-changing you.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General
- Carry a photocopy or digital scan of your passport's main page and visa/entry stamp; leave the original in your hotel safe.
- Learn a few basic Georgian phrases (Gamarjoba = Hello, Madloba = Thank You); it is greatly appreciated.
- Register with your embassy's smart traveler program if available.
Transport
- The Tbilisi Metro is safe and efficient but beware of pickpockets during rush hour.
- When using marshrutkas (minibuses), have small change ready and be prepared for erratic driving.
- Cross streets at designated crossings but still check all lanes carefully—cars may not stop.
Money & Valuables
- Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
- ATMs are widely available; use ones inside banks or shopping centers for better security.
- Don't carry large amounts of cash. A mix of cards and some local currency is best.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Tbilisi is generally safe for solo women travelers. Instances of harassment are lower than in many European cities, though casual staring is not uncommon. Normal precautions apply.
- The same common-sense rules apply: be aware of your surroundings, at night.
- In bars/clubs, be cautious of accepting drinks from strangers.
- Solo women might receive unwanted attention or questions about being alone; a polite but firm response is usually enough.
- Using ride-hailing apps like Bolt is a safe and reliable way to travel at night.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Georgia, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is banned by law. However, there are no laws recognizing same-sex unions.
- Exercise discretion. Avoid public displays of affection to minimize risk of confrontation.
- LGBTQ+ friendly venues exist in Tbilisi but are discrete; research online or through trusted travel forums before visiting.
- Be cautious when discussing LGBTQ+ topics with strangers, as views can be strongly conservative.
- Consider booking twin beds if traveling as a same-sex couple to avoid awkward questions at more traditional guesthouses.
Travel Insurance
Essential. While medical care is affordable, serious illness or an accident requiring evacuation can be extremely costly. Insurance provides peace of mind and access to the best private facilities.
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