Tbilisi International Airport: how to get to the centre and what to expect

The Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport (IATA code: TBS) is Georgia's main aviation hub and gateway to one of the most fascinating destinations in Eastern Europe. Located 17 km southeast of the capital's centre, it handles more than 4 million passengers per year.

aeropuerto internacional Tbilisi — terminal de salidas Georgia

Tbilisi Airport, the main air gateway into Georgia

Airlines and destinations from Tbilisi

TBS airport has regular flights operated by Georgian Airways, Wizz Air, Ryanair, Turkish Airlines, FlyDubai, Pegasus and other carriers. Main connections include Istanbul, Dubai, Moscow, Vienna, Tel Aviv, Yerevan, Amsterdam and several European cities on a seasonal basis.

How to get from the airport to central Tbilisi

Metro: the cheapest option

The metro connects the airport to the centre in about 20–25 minutes. The Airport station is the end of the red line; you need to change at Vagzlis Moedani station. Price: 1 GEL (≈€0.30). Operates from 06:00 to midnight.

Express bus 37

Bus number 37 runs from the airport to Orbeliani metro station (city centre) in about 40–50 minutes. It leaves every 30 minutes and costs 0.50 GEL. It is the most economical option but has no luggage rack.

Taxi

Official airport taxis charge a fixed fare of 35–40 GEL (€10–12) to the centre. App-based taxis (Bolt, Yandex Go) are usually cheaper: 20–25 GEL. Always prefer to book via app to avoid negotiations.

 

Services and facilities at Tbilisi Airport

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
  • ATMs and currency exchange (better rates in the city centre)
  • Paid lounge 
  • Car rental from major chains
  • Local SIM cards at shops near arrivals

Airport development

Tbilisi Airport has undergone a notable transformation since 2010: new terminal, runway expansion and improved services. Forecasts point to exceeding 5 million passengers per year in coming years, reflecting Georgia's tourism boom.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a Georgian SIM card at the airport?

Yes, the three main operators (Magti, Geocell/Silknet and Beeline) have sales points near the arrivals area. A SIM with data costs between 15–55 GEL. Highly recommended for using Bolt and Google Maps.

What currency do I need when arriving at Tbilisi Airport?

The local currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Although some taxis accept euros or dollars, the exchange rate is worse. The airport ATMs work well, though the best exchange rates are found at currency exchange offices in central Tbilisi.