According to forum posts, the best season for hiking in Georgia is summer, particularly from June to August, when the trails are accessible and the scenery is most vibrant. Popular hiking areas mentioned by travelers include Mestia for its range of day hikes and Kazbegi, known for its scenic routes.

Some users highlighted that while major hiking areas like Mestia are reachable via marshutka buses from cities like Kutaisi, local transportation within these regions can be limited. For day hikes in areas like Mestia, some hikes start directly from the village, while others might require a taxi or hitchhiking due to the absence of public transit options.

Travelers have called out that hiking during the winter months can be challenging due to snow and cold conditions. However, some lower altitude trails in places like Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park remain accessible for winter hiking. For those willing to brave colder weather, short hikes such as the one to Gergeti Trinity Church near Kazbegi are possible with appropriate winter gear.

For travelers looking for less crowded and more authentic Georgian hiking experiences, regions such as Tusheti and Racha were recommended, though they require more travel time and are best visited with a longer stay.

According to forum posts, travelers have several options for moving around Georgia using public transport. Marshrutkas (local minibuses) are frequently mentioned as a common and inexpensive mode of transportation between cities. For instance, there are marshrutkas available from Kutaisi to Tbilisi, which are considered quite reliable and reasonably comfortable.

Some travelers have also discussed train travel, noting it as a comfortable alternative, though with limited destinations. There's a direct train from Rioni to Tbilisi, but travelers must first take a taxi to Rioni station from Kutaisi.

For direct routes from airports, shuttle services like the Georgian Bus are available, which are timed to align with flight arrivals and are reasonably priced (e.g., 20 GEL from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi).

For more personalized travel within Georgia, posts suggest hiring private cars or using services like Bolt. These options offer more flexibility and comfort, albeit at a higher cost compared to public transport.

According to forum posts, travelers need to check if their country of citizenship requires a visa to enter Georgia by consulting the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. For instance, Indian passport holders with a used Schengen visa do not need a separate Georgian visa. However, visitors from countries like Pakistan must apply for a visa before arrival.

Some travelers mentioned that all visitors to Georgia must fill out an electronic registration form before arrival. Additionally, as per the latest updates, vaccinated individuals can enter Georgia without restrictions related to citizenship or residency, but they must carry a vaccination document or a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours.

Forum posts indicate that as of February 2021, Georgia allows entry to vaccinated travelers from any country, provided they present documentation confirming the full course of COVID-19 vaccination at the border checkpoints.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend finding an English-speaking guide-driver who is experienced and reputable. Users have stressed the importance of selecting someone with positive reviews for a satisfactory experience.

Some travelers have shared personal recommendations for drivers who also serve as tour guides, enhancing the travel experience in Georgia. These guide-drivers are often praised for their politeness, punctuality, and knowledge, making trips memorable.

Travelers have called out the benefits of booking private tours directly with guide-drivers rather than through companies. This approach allows direct communication and often leads to better service and clearer arrangements about travel details.

According to forum posts, driving in Georgia can be challenging due to aggressive driving styles, unexpected obstacles such as animals and unmarked curves, and varying road conditions. Some travelers have noted that while the main roads between cities like Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi are in good condition, other areas may have roads that are under construction or not well-maintained.

Travelers have mentioned that roads leading to popular destinations like Kazbegi and the wine regions are mostly accessible. However, during the winter months, snow can affect driving conditions, particularly in mountainous areas. It's advised to have a vehicle suitable for rough terrain, especially if planning to explore remote regions.

It's recommended by several users to drive defensively and to consider hiring a local guide or driver, especially when exploring less developed regions or during adverse weather conditions. This not only enhances safety but also enriches the traveling experience by reducing stress and navigation challenges. GPS and online maps may not always be reliable, so local knowledge is invaluable.

Some travelers recommend starting in Tbilisi for a few days to explore local sights such as the Dry Bridge Market, Rustaveli Avenue, and taking cable cars to Narikala Fortress. Following Tbilisi, a trip north to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) is suggested, with stops along the Georgian Military Highway for sightseeing at Ananuri Fortress and Gudauri.

From Stepantsminda, users have enjoyed hiking to the Holy Trinity Church and exploring the Truso Valley. After returning to Tbilisi, a journey to the Kakheti wine region is often recommended, where travelers can visit Sighnaghi for wine tasting and cultural sights.

For those interested in exploring more of Georgia, a trip to the western part of the country includes visits to Kutaisi, known for its historical sites, and then to the Svaneti region, where Mestia and Ushguli offer remarkable mountain scenery and hiking opportunities.

According to forum posts, while in Tbilisi, engaging with local culture and cuisine is highly recommended, and if time allows, a visit to Borjomi for its mineral water springs and national park enhances the travel experience.

Some travelers have discussed using minibuses, locally known as marshrutkas, as a convenient mode of transport for various routes involving Kutaisi. For instance, marshrutkas run frequently from Batumi to Kutaisi and also from Kutaisi to various destinations such as Martvili and Tbilisi.

According to forum posts, trains are a viable option for travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi. However, the specifics regarding the schedule and convenience were not elaborated upon, suggesting that users typically lean more towards minibuses for their flexibility and frequency.

Travelers have called out the use of taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt for short distances within Kutaisi. The cost of a ride within the city limits generally does not exceed 2 USD, making it an affordable and convenient option for local transit.

One user expressed difficulty in booking bus tickets online from Batumi to Kutaisi, indicating potential issues with online travel arrangements that might require purchasing tickets in person at the station.

According to forum posts, Gudauri is well-known for its snow activities, particularly from December to April when the resort is open for skiing. Travelers have highlighted skiing, using the cable car, and paragliding as popular activities during the winter months.

Some travelers mentioned that while Gudauri is primarily a winter destination, summer activities are also available. These include hiking, quad biking, horseback riding, and off-road jeep tours in the mountains, making it a versatile destination across different seasons.