5 min
How It Works: Local Currency and Tools
In Georgia, the official currency in circulation is the Georgian lari (GEL). Other currencies are not accepted, even for tourist services. The official exchange rate is set by the National Bank of Georgia, and banks and licensed exchange offices base their rates on it. Advertising “zero commission” often hides a less favorable exchange rate. Before your trip, it’s worth:
- Monitoring the current exchange rate – the official rate is set by the National Bank, but the difference between buying and selling (the spread) may vary by exchange point. According to experienced travelers, an optimal spread is around 0.01 GEL per US dollar; banks usually have a wider gap.
- Using reliable calculators – banking apps and trusted services help estimate a fair rate and avoid inflated quotes.
- Choosing to be charged in GEL when paying or withdrawing cash – if you use a card, select the local currency instead of your card’s currency; otherwise, the terminal will apply its own exchange rate and markup.
Where to Exchange Money: Banks, Exchange Offices, and ATMs
Banks
Banks in Georgia are the safest option. They offer competitive rates and have a wide branch network, especially in large cities. Major banks operate on weekdays (usually from 9:00 to 18:00) and until noon on Saturdays. Important points:
- Passport required – banks require an ID for exchange operations.
- Fees and rates – banks charge small fees, but the buy/sell spread is wider than in specialized exchange offices.
- Cross rates – if you bring a rare currency to Georgia, it’s better to exchange it into US dollars or euros in advance. Less common currencies (AMD, TRY, UAH, etc.) are usually accepted only by major banks.
Specialized Exchange Offices
Tbilisi has many licensed exchange offices located near metro stations, in large shopping malls, close to hotels, and on main streets. Key advantages:
- Often better rates. Small exchange offices may offer a narrow spread (around 0.01 GEL), which is more favorable than banks.
- Flexible hours – many are open late into the evening.
- No passport required – documents are usually not requested.
However, caution is required:
- Avoid tourist traps. In tourist areas, exchange offices may display attractive rates, but the actual spread can reach 1 GEL, and sometimes hidden commissions of up to 2–8% apply. Always check both buy and sell rates and ask whether a commission is charged.
- Do not use private street money changers. You may encounter unofficial exchangers offering slightly better rates, but there is a high risk of fraud.
- Ask for the final amount. Some exchange offices show favorable figures, but the final payout differs. Clarify how much you will receive before handing over your money.
Airport and Hotels
Airports and hotels offer the least favorable exchange rates: due to higher rent and commissions, the difference is built into the rate. Exchange only a minimal amount here for transportation, and change the main sum in the city.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available in Tbilisi, especially those operated by major banks. Tips for withdrawals:
- Use ATMs of large banks and protect your PIN.
- Consider fees – most ATMs charge around 2–3% for currency conversion to GEL; your home bank may add its own fee and daily withdrawal limits.
- Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to reduce total fees, and keep some cash for trips to regions where ATMs are less common.
What to Watch Out For: Common Mistakes
- Not checking the current exchange rate. Without knowing the official rate, it’s easy to accept overpriced offers.
- Exchanging money at the airport or hotel. These locations almost always offer worse rates.
- Ignoring spreads and commissions. Not just the buy/sell figure matters, but the difference between them.
- Believing “zero commission” ads. Fees are often hidden in a less favorable rate.
- Keeping all cash in one place. Split your money between bags or pockets and keep receipts.
- Forgetting your ID. Banks require a passport or ID; without it, the exchange may not be possible.
- Not preparing for regional travel. Small towns and villages often lack exchange offices.
- Using only a bank card. Cards may not be accepted everywhere, and terminals may charge extra fees.
Safety Recommendations
- Exchange currency only at licensed locations – banks or official exchange offices.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – combine cash with cards.
- Take photos of receipts and keep them until the end of your trip.
- Plan currency exchange in advance – especially before traveling to mountains or regions.
- Avoid strangers offering currency exchange – this is unofficial and offers no protection.
Conclusion
Currency exchange in Tbilisi is straightforward if you are prepared. The best rates are often offered by licensed exchange offices in the city center, but before exchanging money, compare rates and make sure there are no commissions. Banks provide reliability and transparency, though with wider spreads. Airports and hotels should be reserved for emergencies only. Monitor exchange rates, plan cash reserves for trips around the country, use ATMs of major banks, and stay attentive — then financial matters won’t overshadow your journey through hospitable Georgia.
After Exchanging Currency – How to Continue Traveling Comfortably Around Tbilisi and Georgia
Once you have lari in hand, the next steps usually involve connectivity, routing, and transportation. If you plan to move around Tbilisi or travel outside the city, the most convenient solution is to take care of a car in advance — allowing you to reach your hotel comfortably, stop for shopping, and plan routes to Mtskheta, Kazbegi, Kakheti, or the seaside without relying on schedules or waiting for taxis during peak hours.
With us, you can rent a car across Georgia with travel-friendly service: convenient pickup locations, washed vehicles before every handover, full fuel tanks, and 24/7 roadside assistance. Upon request, we can provide child seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, snow chains, ski racks, or a THULE roof box — ensuring your trip during the season and in the mountains remains calm and predictable.
If you’d like, send us your dates, pickup city, and route — we’ll help you choose the right vehicle for your plans and coordinate a convenient pickup time.
