What Is It Like to Live in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi offers international students a combination of university life, Georgian culture, modern city facilities and an active student environment. For students coming from India, understanding everyday living costs can make the transition to Georgia much easier.
A European-Asian City Experience
Tbilisi is the capital and largest city of Georgia. Students can experience a mixture of historic neighbourhoods, modern cafés, shopping areas, public transport, parks and cultural landmarks.
The city has an established international student community, making it possible for students from different countries to meet, study and build friendships during their university years.
For Indian students, daily life can become easier with proper budgeting, accommodation planning and guidance before travelling to Georgia.
Everyday Expenses in Tbilisi
Approximate prices are shown in Georgian Lari (GEL) with an approximate Indian Rupee equivalent.
Indian Food, Local Food & Groceries
Students can manage their food budget by combining home cooking with occasional meals outside. Grocery shopping at local markets can also be more economical than purchasing every item from premium supermarkets.
Students who cook regularly can generally keep food expenses lower than students who eat at restaurants frequently.
Plan Your Monthly Expenses
A practical student budget depends heavily on accommodation, food habits and personal spending. The figures below are planning estimates rather than fixed prices.
| Expense | Approx. GEL | Approx. INR | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Groceries | 500-800 GEL | ₹18,300-₹29,300 | Cooking + occasional eating out |
| Local Transport | 50-100 GEL | ₹1,830-₹3,660 | Metro, buses and local travel |
| Mobile / Internet | 30-60 GEL | ₹1,100-₹2,200 | Depends on plan and usage |
| Personal Expenses | 100-200 GEL | ₹3,660-₹7,320 | Clothing, entertainment and daily needs |
| Study / Miscellaneous | 50-100 GEL | ₹1,830-₹3,660 | Printing, stationery and other needs |
| Typical Living Budget* | 730-1,260 GEL | ₹26,700-₹46,100 | Excluding tuition & accommodation |
Moving Around Tbilisi
Tbilisi has a public transportation network that includes metro services and city buses. Students living close to their university can also combine walking with public transport to manage their monthly expenses.
Meet People and Build Friendships
Georgia is known for its strong culture of hospitality. International students can meet people from Georgia as well as students from different countries.
University activities, student groups, cafés, sports, cultural events and everyday city life can provide opportunities to interact with people outside the classroom.
Experience Four Seasons
Tbilisi experiences distinct seasons, giving students the opportunity to experience warm summers, colourful autumns, cooler winters and pleasant spring weather.
Summer
Warm weather, longer days and outdoor activities.
Autumn
Cooler temperatures and colourful city surroundings.
Winter
Cold weather and occasional snow, with mountain destinations offering stronger winter conditions.
Spring
Mild weather and greener parks and outdoor spaces.
Places Students Can Explore in Georgia
Living in Georgia also gives students opportunities to discover the country's history, mountains, architecture, nature and different regions.
Peace Bridge
A modern landmark crossing the Mtkvari River in central Tbilisi.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
One of Tbilisi's most recognisable religious and architectural landmarks.
Mtskheta
Historic former capital known for its important cultural and religious heritage.
Plan Your Student Life Before Arrival
You Don't Have to Figure Out Everything Alone.
From understanding university options and preparing for your journey to settling into student life, FTO GROUPS can help students and families understand the process and plan ahead.