Tbilisi is becoming a top destination for digital nomads due to its affordable living, fast internet, and the welcoming Georgia Digital Nomad Visa program. The city has a growing number of co-working spaces and cafes, particularly in areas like Vera and Vake. With a low cost of living, vibrant expat community, and easy visa processes, it’s a practical choice for long-term stays. Tbilisi’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities makes it an exciting place to live and work. Plus, Georgia’s stunning landscapes are just a short trip away for weekend adventures.
Nomad Score: 8/10 ・ Cost of living: $2500/month ・ Internet speed: 190 Mbps
▶ Unfound Door Design Hotel – Double or Twin Room
▶ Bazzar Boutique Hotel – Double Room
▶ TbiliSee Hotel – Double or Twin Room
▶ Mukhrantubani Boutique Hotel – Economy Double Room
This guide will help you navigate life in Tbilisi as a digital nomad, balancing productivity with the city’s rich culture, vibrant community, and easy visa processes:
1. Internet and Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: Tbilisi offers reliable high-speed internet, with most cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces providing free Wi-Fi. Internet speeds are generally good, though it’s recommended to check the connectivity of your accommodation beforehand.
- Mobile Plans: Major mobile providers include Magti, Beeline, and Silknet, all offering affordable prepaid SIM cards with data plans. You can purchase SIM cards easily at the airport or from mobile stores across the city.
2. Co-working Spaces
Tbilisi has a growing number of co-working spaces, catering to freelancers and remote workers:
- Fabrika: A trendy co-working space housed in a repurposed Soviet factory, offering a dynamic community, events, and cafes nearby.
- Impact Hub Tbilisi: One of the best-known co-working spaces in the city, located in the city center, offering events and networking opportunities.
- Terminal: A modern co-working chain with multiple locations around the city, providing well-equipped workspaces for digital nomads.
- LOKAL Tbilisi: A cozy co-working and coliving space popular with digital nomads, offering a supportive community and regular social events.
3. Cost of Living
- Accommodation: Tbilisi is very affordable compared to many European cities. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $400–$700 per month, while cheaper options are available in outer districts like Saburtalo or Didube for $300–$500.
- Food: Eating out is inexpensive, with meals at local restaurants costing between $5–$10. You can find Georgian cuisine in small eateries or international options in the city’s growing food scene. Shopping at local markets is a great way to access fresh produce at affordable prices.
- Co-working: Monthly co-working space memberships typically range from $100 to $250, depending on location and amenities.
4. Where to Stay
- Vera: A central neighborhood with a mix of cafes, bars, and co-working spaces. It’s popular with expats and digital nomads due to its laid-back vibe.
- Vake: Known for its greenery and proximity to Vake Park, this upscale neighborhood offers modern apartments and easy access to co-working spaces.
- Saburtalo: A more affordable, residential area with easy metro access, popular with students and digital nomads looking for budget-friendly options.
- Old Town (Kala): If you want to be immersed in Tbilisi’s cultural heart, Old Town offers charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and proximity to attractions, though it can be more touristy.
5. Transportation
- Public Transport: Tbilisi has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and the metro. The Metromoney card can be used for both, and a ride costs only 50 tetri (around $0.20).
- Taxis & Ridesharing: Taxis are affordable, but apps like Bolt and Yandex Go are popular ridesharing services offering cheap, safe, and easy transport.
- Walking: Tbilisi’s central areas, especially Old Town, Vera, and Vake, are walkable. However, be prepared for hilly streets in some parts of the city.
- Bikes & Scooters: While biking is becoming more popular, infrastructure is still limited, so caution is advised. Scooter rentals can be found in tourist areas.
6. Work-Friendly Cafes
- Coffeesta: A chain of coffee shops offering good Wi-Fi, plenty of seating, and a quiet atmosphere for remote work.
- Prospero’s Books & Caliban’s Coffeehouse: A charming bookstore cafe with a relaxed vibe, ideal for working or reading.
- Skola Coffee & Wine Bar: Known for its stylish decor and strong coffee, this cafe offers a peaceful space to get work done.
- Lolita: Located near Fabrika, it’s a trendy cafe with outdoor seating and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for work sessions.
7. Visa and Legal Information
- Georgia Digital Nomad Visa: Georgia offers the “Remotely from Georgia” program, which allows digital nomads to live and work in the country for up to one year without a visa. The process is straightforward and can be completed online.
- Tourist Visa: Georgia offers visa-free travel for up to 365 days for citizens of many countries, making it one of the most flexible visa policies for digital nomads.
8. Networking and Community
Tbilisi has a growing community of digital nomads and expats:
- Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com host various events, including tech and entrepreneurship meetups, networking events, and social gatherings for nomads.
- Facebook Groups: Join groups like “Expats in Tbilisi” and “Tbilisi Digital Nomads” to connect with fellow remote workers and get tips on living in Georgia.
- Events at Co-working Spaces: Spaces like Fabrika and Impact Hub frequently host events, from startup pitch nights to cultural talks, making it easy to network and meet new people.
9. Local Attractions and Leisure
- Old Town: Tbilisi’s historic center is filled with narrow alleys, beautiful churches, sulfur baths, and lively cafes, offering a great mix of culture and relaxation.
- Narikala Fortress: Hike up to this ancient fortress for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Mtatsminda Park: A large park on a hill overlooking the city, perfect for a break from work and a fun place to enjoy nature or visit the amusement park.
- Wine Culture: Georgia is known for its wine. Don’t miss the chance to visit local wine bars or take a day trip to the Kakheti wine region for tastings and tours.
10. Health and Safety
- Healthcare: Tbilisi has good healthcare facilities, and there are several private clinics that cater to expats. It’s advisable to have international health insurance for the duration of your stay.
- Safety: Tbilisi is generally very safe, with low crime rates. However, as in any city, it’s wise to be cautious of petty theft in busy areas and to take care when crossing streets due to unpredictable traffic.
Bonus Tips
- Weather: Tbilisi experiences hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is spring or autumn when the weather is mild. If you enjoy skiing, nearby mountains offer winter sports during the colder months.
- Language: While Georgian is the official language, many younger locals and those in the service industry speak English. Learning a few basic Georgian phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
- Affordability: Tbilisi is very budget-friendly for digital nomads, allowing for a good quality of life at a lower cost compared to Western cities.