4

Tbilisi airport transfer scams — how to avoid getting ripped off

Look, here's the deal with those vultures outside Tbilisi airport arrivals. They'll hit you with demands for 80+ gel for what should be a simple 25-minute ride to the city center. Complete tourist tax bullshit.

Download Bolt app before you land — It's like Uber but actually works here. Airport to anywhere in central Tbilisi runs 25-35 gel ($9-13), takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. You see the exact price upfront, driver's photo, license plate. No haggling, no 'broken meter' excuses, no surprises when you arrive.

Here's what NOT to do: don't get in any taxi without agreeing on the exact fare first. Don't let them take you on some 'scenic route through the mountains.' And definitely don't pay more than 40 gel for ANY ride from that airport, period. These guys prey on jetlagged tourists who don't know better.

Bus #37 to 300 Aragveli metro station costs 0.50 gel, but here's the thing — Service turns to garbage after 10pm and you're still stuck figuring out the final connection to your hotel. For evening arrivals, Bolt's worth every extra gel for the peace of mind.

mikeNYCmikeNYC13/01/2026

Comments

Please sign in to comment.

Related Tips