Are you planning a trip to Georgia and wondering how to get from Tbilisi to Telavi? Telavi is a charming town located in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, Kakheti. It’s a popular destination for wine lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts. The good news is that getting to Telavi from Tbilisi is easy and affordable. In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to get from Tbilisi to Telavi.
Option 1: Shared Taxi
Shared taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Georgia. They are usually comfortable and affordable. You can find shared taxis at the Didube Bus Station in Tbilisi. The journey from Tbilisi to Telavi takes about 2 hours and costs around 10 GEL ($3).
Shared taxis are a great option for those who are traveling on a budget. They are also a good way to meet locals and other travelers. However, shared taxis can be crowded, and you may have to wait for the taxi to fill up before it departs. Additionally, shared taxis are not always on time, so it’s important to be flexible with your schedule.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Easy to find
Cons:
- Can be crowded
- Not always on time
Option 2: Private Taxi
If you prefer more privacy and comfort, you can hire a private taxi to take you from Tbilisi to Telavi. You can negotiate the price with the driver, but it usually costs around 60-80 GEL ($18-$24) for a one-way trip.
Private taxis are a good option for those who are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage. They are also a good option for those who want to have more control over their schedule. However, private taxis are more expensive than shared taxis, and you may have to negotiate the price with the driver.
Pros:
- More privacy
- More comfortable
- Flexible schedule
Cons:
- More expensive than shared taxis
- You need to negotiate the price
Option 3: Marshrutka
A marshrutka is a minibus that operates on a fixed route. It’s a popular mode of transportation in Georgia, and you can find them at the Didube Bus Station. The journey from Tbilisi to Telavi takes about 2 hours and costs around 7 GEL ($2).
Marshrutkas are a good option for those who are traveling on a budget. They are also a good way to meet locals and other travelers. However, like shared taxis, marshrutkas can be crowded, and you may have to wait for the marshrutka to fill up before it departs. Additionally, marshrutkas are not always on time, so it’s important to be flexible with your schedule.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to find
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Can be crowded
- Not always on time
Option 4: Rent a Car
If you prefer to have more flexibility and explore the region on your own, you can rent a car in Tbilisi and drive to Telavi. There are several car rental companies in Tbilisi, and the cost of renting a car starts at around 50 GEL ($15) per day.
Renting a car is a good option for those who want to explore the region on their own. It’s also a good option for those who are traveling with a lot of luggage. However, renting a car is more expensive than other options, and you need to have a valid driver’s license.
Pros:
- More flexibility
- You can explore the region on your own
- Comfortable
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- You need to have a valid driver’s license
Option 5: Bus
There are several buses that operate between Tbilisi and Telavi. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic, and costs around 5 GEL ($1.50). You can find buses at the Didube Bus Station.
Buses are a good option for those who are traveling on a budget. They are also a good way to meet locals and other travelers. However, like marshrutkas and shared taxis, buses can be crowded, and you may have to wait for the bus to fill up before it departs. Additionally, buses are not always on time, so it’s important to be flexible with your schedule.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to find
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Can be crowded
- Not always on time
Tips for Traveling from Tbilisi to Telavi
- If you’re traveling during peak season, it’s recommended to book your transportation in advance.
- Be prepared for the possibility of traffic jams, especially during rush hour.
- If you’re taking a shared taxi or marshrutka, make sure to bring cash to pay for your fare.
- If you’re renting a car, make sure to have a valid driver’s license and insurance.
- Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water and some snacks for the journey.
Conclusion
Getting from Tbilisi to Telavi is easy and affordable. Whether you prefer to take a shared taxi, private taxi, marshrutka, bus, or rent a car, there are plenty of options available. Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s up to you to decide which one suits your needs and budget. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to explore the charming town of Telavi and its surrounding wine country.