Marshrutkas
Carry cash unless your operator clearly offers another payment method.
💵 Georgia · Money
Do You Need Cash in Georgia?
Yes. You can pay many city expenses by card, but carry some Georgian lari if you plan to use local transport or travel beyond the main cities.
Information checked 21 August 2026
SHORT ANSWER
Yes — cash is still a useful travel backup.
Official travel guidance specifically warns that outside major towns you may not find ATMs or be able to use credit and debit cards.
WHEN CASH HELPS
Think beyond Tbilisi
Mountain regions
ATM and POS coverage can be much thinner than in Tbilisi or Batumi.
Markets
Small purchases are simpler with lari.
Small guesthouses
Confirm card acceptance before arrival rather than assuming.
SIMPLE STRATEGY
Card + modest cash reserve
Use your card where it works, but replenish lari in larger towns before heading into remote areas. You do not need to carry your whole trip budget in cash.
SOURCES
Where we checked this
FAQ
Quick questions
Do tourists need cash in Georgia?
Yes. Carry some Georgian lari, particularly if you are travelling outside major towns or using local transport.
Are there ATMs in Georgia?
Yes in cities and major towns, but ATM access can be limited in rural or remote areas.
Can I rely only on Apple Pay or Google Pay in Georgia?
No. Mobile payments may work where contactless cards are accepted, but you should still carry lari for cash-only situations.