Georgian Currency and Payment Methods: Tips for Travelers

National currency of Georgia

The country's official currency is Gel (GEL), whose name is related to "inheritance" and "wealth". It is also used as a unit of money White, which meant "white" in old Georgian. Georgian banknotes are distinguished by With high protection technology, which makes them almost impossible to counterfeit.

Banknote denominations:
5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 GEL.

Coins:
5, 10, 20, 50 tetri, 1 and 2 GEL.

Nowadays, both old and new design banknotes are in circulation, which often causes confusion among tourists. However Both versions are legal., and they can be used in any merchant.

Settlement and settlement

All denominations are used for payments in the country, however 1 and 2 tetri coins removed from circulationAccordingly, when calculating amounts, the rounding rule is often used:

• 1 and 2 whites are ignored
• 3 and 4 whites add up to 5
• Everything else is rounded to the nearest 5.

This is especially noticeable when buying products with scales, although for locals it is a common occurrence and sometimes rounding is done. It also benefits the buyer..

Exchange rate and lari stability

Previously, the exchange rate of the lari was regulated by the state, however Today he is free swimming. And it depends on global financial markets. All financial transactions in the country are carried out only in lari., and payment in foreign currency It is prohibited by law..

An exception may be the rental of private real estate, where they often agree to pay in dollars or euros. Also, Some private guides accept foreign currency., but these are rare cases.

Where can I exchange currency at the best rate?

In Batumi, as a tourist city, There are many currency exchange offices., although the rate varies in different places. Often, The exchange rate in tourist areas is less favorable., and a little further away from the center, the course is better.

I recommend exchanging currency. On Chavchavadze Street Batumi In the vicinity of the cathedral churchbecause there are exchange offices here They usually offer a better rate to tourists..

• Currency exchange in Georgia is carried out without commission.
• The practice of private money changers is almost non-existent here.
• Most exchange offices are open until late at night, some are open 24/7.

What currency should you bring to Georgia?

The easiest way to convert in the country Dollar, Euro and RubleOther currencies are often exchanged at a less favorable rate. The Ukrainian hryvnia and the Belarusian ruble have a particularly unfavorable exchange rate..

If you are planning a trip, It is advisable to bring dollars or euros with you.because their exchange It is the most profitable..

Card payment or cash?

In Georgia, especially in large cities, Payment by card is possible in almost all establishments.Bank cards are accepted:

• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Supermarkets
• Minimarkets
• Different types of stores
• Clinics
• Public transport

However, Only cash is required in small shops, markets, taxis, and street vendors..

• Withdrawals from the card can only be made in GEL.
• The commission is usually 2%.
• All ATMs have English language menus.

⚠️ Important:

• If all your money is on a card, it is advisable to at least have a small amount of cash on hand.
• If you are planning to travel to small towns or mountainous regions, it is advisable to take cash in advance, as ATMs are relatively rare there..

Practical tips

• If you withdraw money from your card, it is advisable to do so in your home country, as the commission is higher in Georgia.
• Exchanging money at the airport is not profitable – the rate there is lower than usual.
• When exchanging money, verify the amount on the spot, as this is the only place where you can make a dispute if necessary.
• Never exchange large amounts of money at once – it is better to exchange only the small amount you will actually need.

What does the Georgian lari look like?

The national currency of Georgia has banknotes of both old and new designs.

Old design banknotes:

New design banknotes:

Georgian coins:

Now you are fully prepared in terms of financial matters and can plan your trip to Georgia with peace of mind!