Don't Be a Lari-Fied Tourist: A Guide to Georgian Currency in Tbilisi
So, you're off to explore the stunning city of Tbilisi, Georgia! Land of delicious food, epic history, and enough charm to make even the grumpiest traveler crack a smile. But before you get swept away by the adorable alleyways and friendly locals, there's a burning question in your pocket (hopefully not literally): what kind of money do they use in Tbilisi?
Fear not, fellow adventurer, because this guide is here to shed light on the Georgian currency and ensure you don't end up bartering your shoes for a khachapuri (trust me, delicious as they are, shoes are a bad trade for khachapuri).
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| What Currency Is Used In Tbilisi Georgia |
The Lari Lowdown
The official currency of Georgia is the lari, denoted by the snazzy symbol ₾ (it looks a bit like a fancy horseshoe). You'll hear it pronounced "LA-ri" with a slight emphasis on the "LA." Fun fact: "lari" comes from an old Georgian word meaning "treasure" or "hoard," which is pretty fitting considering the delicious food you'll be buying with it!
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Dividing Up Your Lari:
Just like your grandma meticulously divides up her Tupperware collection, the lari is divided into smaller units called tetri (pronounced "tet-REE"). There are 100 tetri to 1 lari, so if you see a price tag with a bunch of numbers after the decimal, that's the tetri talking.
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Exchanging Your Dough for Lari:
Most places in Tbilisi accept major currencies like US dollars and Euros, but you'll generally get the best exchange rate by bringing euros. There are also plenty of ATMs around the city, so you can withdraw lari directly. Just be sure to check with your bank about any international transaction fees first. Pro tip: Avoid sketchy money changers on street corners. They might offer a "too good to be true" rate, and it probably is.
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Plastic Fantastic (Mostly):
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While Tbilisi is becoming increasingly card-friendly, especially in tourist areas, cash is still king in many smaller shops and restaurants. It's always a good idea to have a mix of both on hand to avoid any hangry meltdowns caused by a dead card reader.
Lari Life FAQs
How to exchange money in Tbilisi?
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- You can exchange cash at banks or licensed money changers. Euros generally offer the best exchange rate.
How much cash should I bring to Tbilisi?
- This depends on your spending habits, but generally, €100-€200 per day is a good starting point.
Can I use my credit card in Tbilisi?
- Many places accept cards, especially in tourist areas, but it's always good to have cash as a backup.
What are some good tips for budgeting in Tbilisi?
- Food is very affordable, but factor in activities, transportation, and souvenirs.
Is it safe to use ATMs in Tbilisi?
- Generally, yes, but use ATMs in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings.
Now you're armed with the knowledge to navigate the wonderful world of Georgian currency! So get out there, explore Tbilisi, and don't forget to stock up on some delicious khachapuri (and maybe some new shoes, just in case).
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