In recent years, Tbilisi has emerged as one of Europe’s top spots for digital nomads. Having lived in this vibrant city since 2020, I’m eager to share my firsthand experience.
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is nestled between Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. This small country offers everything from towering mountain ranges to a beautiful Black Sea coastline.
Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and undergoing significant reforms after the 2003 Rose Revolution, Georgia has become increasingly popular with tourists. Although it’s not yet as well-known as other European digital nomad destinations, Tbilisi’s star is on the rise. The ‘Remotely From Georgia’ permit introduced in 2020 has also boosted its appeal.
Tbilisi’s mild climate, generous visa policy, and affordable cost of living are all excellent reasons to move here. But what truly captivated me were the rich culture, fascinating history, and legendary hospitality.
With a population of just over a million, Tbilisi stretches along a valley between two high hills, with the Kura river running through its center. The heart of the city is its charming Old Town, home to the hilltop Narikala Fortress, Betlemi Quarter, Old Meidan, sulfur bath district Abanotubani, and more.
Surrounding the Old Town are sprawling Soviet-style apartment blocks. One of Tbilisi’s unique charms is how it blends the old with the new. You can find yourself in an ancient church courtyard one moment and a trendy coffee shop the next. Its multicultural heritage is evident at every turn, making it both familiar and uniquely Georgian.
Tbilisi is still an emerging destination for digital nomads but offers a good balance of convenience and adventure. The infrastructure is improving rapidly, and the expat community, primarily made up of remote workers, is gradually becoming more close-knit. English is commonly spoken, especially among younger residents, making it easy to connect with locals. Learning a bit of Georgian can further enrich your experience.
Georgia’s visa policy is incredibly generous, allowing citizens of over 95 countries to stay for up to a year without a visa. You can work, study, open a bank account, register a business, buy a car, or even invest in property without needing special permits. However, staying over 183 days means you’ll become a tax resident. Many digital nomads register as Individual Entrepreneurs to benefit from a low 1% tax rate.
As Georgia aims for EU membership, regulations might change, but for now, Tbilisi remains highly accessible for remote workers. The ‘Remotely From Georgia’ program allows digital nomads to bypass travel restrictions, provided they meet certain requirements like an income threshold and health insurance.
Tbilisi’s climate is another attractive feature. Winters are mild, averaging around 50°F from December to February, with rare snowfalls. Summers can be extremely hot, reaching up to 104°F in July and August. The most pleasant times to be in Tbilisi are during spring and fall, particularly September and October, which are perfect for outdoor festivals and events.
There are numerous activities to enjoy in Tbilisi, from soaking in sulfur baths to exploring museums and trendy cafes in the Vera district. Just wandering through the Old Town offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy people-watching. Beyond the city, you can easily embark on day trips to Kakheti wine country, the Caucasus mountains, and medieval cave monasteries.
Tbilisi’s location makes it an excellent base for international travel, with open borders to neighboring countries and budget flights to various destinations like the UAE, Germany, and Greece.
Safety is generally not a concern in Tbilisi, which boasts a low crime rate. However, it’s wise to stay cautious, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid unlit areas at night. Using taxi apps can help you avoid being overcharged. Be cautious on the roads, as local driving can be quite aggressive.
If protests occur, they are typically organized outside Parliament on Rustaveli Avenue. While most are peaceful, it’s best to steer clear as they can occasionally turn violent.
When it comes to accommodation, digital nomads tend to live outside the touristic Old Town center. Districts like Sololaki, Vera, Vake, and Chugureti offer residential vibes, green spaces, and great amenities. Rent varies, but you can find an apartment for $350-500 USD per month in the city center, or less if you’re willing to live further out.
The internet in Tbilisi is fast and reliable, with fiber connections offering speeds of 20-100 Mbps. Most cafes and coworking spaces also provide good internet. Power outages can happen, so having a mobile data backup is wise. Magti is a reliable mobile provider with affordable plans.
Cafes in Tbilisi are generally laptop-friendly, with popular hotspots including Coffee LAB, Fabrika, Prospero’s, and Mziuri. If you prefer coworking spaces, consider Terminal, LOKAL, or Space Z for a good working environment.
Living costs in Tbilisi are remarkably low by digital nomad standards. A single person can live on $500-600 USD per month, while couples might spend around $900-1200 USD. Rent is affordable, utilities are cheap, and eating out won’t break the bank. Supporting local businesses and tipping for good service are ways to make a positive impact, given the low local wages.
While Tbilisi does have its quirks and challenges, the benefits far outweigh any negatives. It’s a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern conveniences—an excellent choice for digital nomads looking for adventure and a rich cultural experience.
Don’t choose Tbilisi just for the cost savings or tax benefits. Move here because you love it. The city is accommodating yet unique, requiring flexibility and an open mind.
