London to Tbilisi flights

Tbilisi has only an occasional direct link with London, so plenty of travellers change planes in Istanbul or Warsaw on the way to Georgia. Midweek flights from London to Tbilisi often cost less than weekend ones. Seats on the route start at £96.

Many travellers choose a stopover to open up a wider range of airfares and schedules. Regular connections to Tbilisi International (TBS) operate through cities such as Riga, Bucharest, Athens, and Vienna, allowing you to compare different carriers and ticket options for your trip to Georgia.

Flights to Georgia depart from the UK's two largest aviation hubs, London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Heathrow, to the west of the city, operates four passenger terminals. Travellers can reach it in 15 minutes on the Heathrow Express from Paddington, or take the Piccadilly line from central London, which runs all night on Fridays and Saturdays. Each terminal has rest areas, foreign currency exchange and baby changing stations.

Gatwick is approximately 30 miles south of central London and has two terminals. The Gatwick Express runs up to four times per hour from London Victoria, with a journey time of 30 minutes. Both Gatwick terminals offer restaurants, bars and shops, alongside free Wi-Fi and airport lounges.

Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International (TBS) is the main gateway to the Georgian capital, located 14 miles south-east of the city centre. The Airport Shuttle Bus 37 operates 24 hours a day, taking approximately 40 minutes to reach central districts. For a faster transfer, metered taxis are available outside the arrivals area, reaching the centre in about 25 minutes. There is also a commuter train service that runs twice daily between the airport and the city station.

The airport facilities include 24-hour food outlets, duty-free shopping, and foreign currency exchange. Passengers can also access free Wi-Fi and luggage storage while transit through the terminal.

Entry requirements for Tbilisi

British passport holders do not require a visa to visit Georgia for stays of up to one year, whether travelling for tourism or business. You must ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. Upon arrival, border officials may request proof of onward travel or sufficient funds for your visit.

Georgia's capital is known for its dramatic setting and the historic Kala (Old Town) district. You can take a cable car from Rike Park to the 4th-century Narikala Fort for views across the city, or walk the modern Peace Bridge over the Mtkvari river. The city is also famous for the sulfur baths in Abanotubani and the shady Botanical Gardens.

For a taste of local culture, explore the Museum of Georgia or browse the Dry Bridge flea market. Georgian cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Look for specialities like khinkali dumplings, khachapuri cheese bread, and aubergine prepared with walnuts.