Getting Around the Caucasus: Complete Transport Guide

One of the first questions when planning a trip to the Caucasus is how to get between its cities, villages, and attractions. The good news: transport in the Caucasus is accessible, relatively affordable and quite reliable on the main routes. The bad news: in rural and mountain areas, frequency can be low and timetables unpredictable. This guide gives you everything you need to know.

Public Transport in the Caucasus

Marshrutkas: the backbone of Caucasian transport

Marshrutkas (shared minibuses with variable capacity, from 8 to 25 seats) are the most widespread and affordable form of transport in the Caucasus. They connect virtually every city, town and tourist destination. They leave when full (no fixed schedules), payment is in cash, and seats can be uncomfortable on long journeys. They are a cultural experience in themselves — a perfect opportunity to interact with locals.

Trains: the comfortable option for long distances

Georgia has a decent rail network connecting Tbilisi with Batumi, Kutaisi and Zugdidi (the starting point for Svaneti). Armenia has trains between Yerevan and the north of the country. The Tbilisi–Yerevan night train (about 10 hours) is a comfortable and scenic option for crossing the border. We recommend booking in advance during high season.

Metro in cities

Tbilisi and Baku have fast and efficient metro systems. In Tbilisi, the metro costs just 1 GEL (around €0.35) per journey and covers the main points of the city. In Baku, the metro is modern and clean. Yerevan also has a basic but useful metro line.

Private Transport and Ridesharing

Taxi and ridesharing apps

The Bolt and Yandex Go apps operate in Tbilisi, Yerevan and Baku with fixed prices and digital payment. They are the most convenient and safe way for tourists to get around the cities: no price haggling and no risk of being overcharged. In rural areas, local taxis are needed (always agree on a price before the trip).

Car rental

Car rental is the most flexible option for exploring the Caucasus at your own pace. Prices are lower than in Western Europe. For mountain routes (Svaneti, Kazbegi, northern Azerbaijan), choose a 4x4 vehicle. Local agencies such as Sixt, Europcar and other national operators are available at the airports. Always check the vehicle's condition before setting off.

Getting Between the Three Countries

Georgia ↔ Armenia

The Bagratashen-Sadakhlo border crossing is the most commonly used. There are direct marshrutkas from Tbilisi to Yerevan (about 5 hours) and the night train mentioned above. Flights are a fast option (45 min) but more expensive.

Georgia ↔ Azerbaijan

The Krasny Most–Sinig Körpu crossing between Georgia and Azerbaijan is the main one. There are direct marshrutkas from Tbilisi to Baku (about 8 hours) or flights (1 hour). The Tbilisi–Baku night train also exists, though it is slower.

Armenia ↔ Azerbaijan

The border crossing is closed due to political tensions between the two countries. Direct crossing is not possible. The standard itinerary is Armenia → Georgia → Azerbaijan.

Useful Apps for Getting Around

• Maps.me: Offline maps that work without an internet connection. Essential in rural areas.
• Google Maps: Works well in cities; in rural areas, download offline maps.
• Bolt: Taxis in Tbilisi, Yerevan and Baku.
• Yandex Go: Alternative to Bolt in the same cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a taxi from the airport to central Tbilisi cost?

Using the Bolt app, the journey from Tbilisi International Airport to the city centre costs between 15 and 20 GEL (€4–5). Taxis without an app at the airport exit may charge 30–40 GEL or more if no price is agreed in advance. Always use Bolt or Yandex Go at the airport to avoid misunderstandings.

Is there public transport between Tbilisi and Kazbegi?

Yes, there are direct marshrutkas from Didube Bus Station in Tbilisi to Kazbegi (about 3 hours). They depart when full, generally between 9:00 and 11:00 in the morning. There are also organised full-day tours from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, which include the 4x4 ascent to Gergeti.

Can you travel by train from Tbilisi to Yerevan?

Yes, the Tbilisi–Yerevan night train generally runs 3–4 times a week and takes between 10 and 12 hours. There are couchette carriages (kupé) and seats. Prices are very affordable (€15–30). It is a romantic and comfortable option for crossing the border between Georgia and Armenia, though the train often arrives with some delay.