Thinking of visiting Georgia and wondering if Tbilisi is still budget-friendly in 2025? Here’s your ultimate local guide to what things really cost—from coffee to castles, and everything in between.
Tbilisi used to be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets: wine for $2, taxis for $3, and hearty meals under $10. But with the rise of digital nomads, influencers, and travel TikTokers, prices have crept up in recent years..
So, is Tbilisi still cheap in 2025?
Short answer: Yes—but only if you know where to go
💰 2025 Price Breakdown in Tbilisi
Here’s a snapshot of real average costs in Tbilisi as of June 2025 (updated monthly):
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee (cappuccino) | $1.20 (3.5 GEL) | $2.50 | $4 |
| Lunch (local food) | $5 (15 GEL) | $8–12 | $20+ |
| Dinner with wine | $10 (18 GEL) | $15–25 | $40+ |
| Street food/pastries (khachapuri) | $2 | — | — |
| Taxi (within city) | $3.50 (Bolt) | — | — |
| Metro/bus ride | $0.35 (1 GEL) | — | — |
| Airbnb/night | $25–40 | $50–80 | $120+ |
| Hotels/night | $30–40 | $70–120 | $200+ |
| Museum entry | $2–5 | — | — |
| SIM card + 10GB data | $5–7 (Magti, Geocell) | — | — |
🥘 Is Food Still Affordable in Tbilisi?
Absolutely! If you eat like a local:
- Khinkali (Georgian dumplings) – $0.30–$0.40 each
- Lobio (bean stew) – $5
- Khachapuri (cheese bread) – $5 depending on type
- Wine (glass) – $3–$5
- Bottle of local wine from a shop – $4–10
👉 Looking for the best budget restaurants? Check out my guide to Local Eats in Tbilisi.
🚕 Transport: Still Super Cheap
- Bolt App works like Uber and is way cheaper than taxis at the airport.
- Metro and buses run on a rechargeable MetroMoney card
- 🚠 Want views? Ride the funicular or cable car for just $1.
🎟️ Tours & Experiences: Are They Worth It?
Yes! You’ll still find:
✅ Book your Private Tbilisi Walking Tour with Me – Click Here
📊 So… Is Tbilisi Still Cheap in 2025?
✅ Yes—for now. Prices are rising slowly, especially in tourist-heavy areas. But if you travel smart, eat local, and avoid overpriced traps, Tbilisi remains one of Europe’s best-value cities.
📌 Final Tips from a Local
- Eat at local bakeries & wine bars
- Shop at Dezerter Bazaar for fresh food
- Join budget group tours (or choose authentic experiences, as mine 😉)