Georgia is a stunning little country nestled in the Caucasus Mountains between Russia and Turkey. It is one of the most rewarding destinations to visit and one can that everyone should go to if given half a chance.

Georgia has something for everyone and it boasts world-class hostels (and guesthouses). These hostels are often frequented by the type of backpacker looking for a more off-the-beaten (but not too of the beaten) track destination. This is one of the reasons one should choose to stay in a hostel and not a hotel while in Georgia.

Why Visit Georgia?

Georgia is an ancient land that is thought to be the first place in the world to invent wine (something that the Georgians are very proud of). The country is just perfect for hiking in the mountains, discovering forgotten alpine mountains, and in the case of the capital, Tbilisi, boasts a stunning old city.

  • Tbilisi: Capital and Largest City
  • Visa Policy: Visa-Free For All Western Countries for One Year!

Anyone's tour in Georgia is likely to start in Tbilisi. So while there are excellent hostels in other parts of the country (like in the Black Sea resort city of Batumi and the alpine resort of Mestia), these should be the highest on one's list for staying.

There are many reseasons to visit Georgia, some of them are the people are friendly, Georgian cuisine is delicious (it was regarded as the best in the USSR), the landscapes are eye-watering, the land and civilization is ancient, it is cheap, and it is little known to the West.

Related: 'The Worst Hotel In The World': What Its Like To Stay At Hans Brinker Budget Hotel In Amsterdam

Envoy Hostel Tbilisi

Envoy Hostel Tbilisi is located in the heart of the old city and is perched up the foot of the mountain overlooking the city. The rooftop and location are great selling points and convincing reasons to stay here. One will be only a short walk from wherever one would like to go (even the sulfur hot baths for which Tbilisi is famous are just around the corner).

Envoy is a smaller and more homely hostel with a very friendly and knowledgeable staff. The reception is open 24/7 and there is a great hostel vibe in this hostel.

Tip: If Coming For New Year Celebration, Watch The City's Fireworks From Envoy's Rooftop

  • Breakfast: Included
  • Vibe: True Hostel Vibe

Envoy has a mix of dorm bed accommodation and private rooms (without private bathrooms).

Accommodation Cost (High Season):

  • Dormitory: $14.50 (Six Bed Dorm)
  • Standard Double Room: $35.50 (With Balcony)

Another reason to pick Envoy is that they take their tours very seriously. They offer (non-touristic and genuinely authentic) village tours and tours to just about any other attraction one can think of.

Envoy Hostel Tbilisi has a sister hostel in Armenia - Envoy Hostel Yerevan. It is normal for them to organize tours of northern Armenia and to facilitate those wanting to travel to Armenia after Georgia.

Related: Cape Town: Some Of The Best Hostels For Backpackers

Fabrika Hostel

Fabrika is the local word for a factory and the hostel has been converted from an abandoned factory in the center of the hipster part of the city. Fabrika Hostel Tbilisi is a very large and hipster-style hostel. It is quite a contrast to Envoy. Whereas Envoy has more of a homely vibe, Fabrika is a mix of much more hotel-like accommodation and a very large and trendy common area with a bar and restaurant.

There are old books, old sofa chairs, abundant street art, and a very strong factory-turned-hipster vibe. The lighting is low and colored to create a certain mood, the elevator itself is an experience.

Accommodation Cost (High Season):

  • Dormitory: $10.65 (Ten Bed Dorm)
  • Dormitory: $14.20 (Six Bed Dorm)
  • Standard Double Room: $71.00 (With Ensuite Bathroom)

It is the popular hangout spot for digital nomads from around the city and is normally busy in the evenings. It often seems about half of the people here are working on their computers in the large downstairs bar/restaurant/common area.

Fabrika is more of a hostel/hotel hybrid and is a great compromise for those wanting the best of both worlds. That being said, the vibe is more of a trendy hipster cafe than a genuine hostel vibe.

  • Breakfast: Not Included
  • Drinks: Difficult to Bring In Drinks from The Outside
  • Vibe: Trendy Hipster Vibe

Another thing is that there is not much by way of self-catering kitchen facilities and they expect guests to drink from the bar. It could get expensive with drinks and related expenses quickly for those traveling on a budget.

When traveling solo, hostels are normally the way to go for most people. Airbnbs are always an option, but they just can't beat the hostel vibe.

Nino Ratiani's Guesthouse

While not a hostel, Nino Ratiani's Guesthouse in the eyewatering and incredibly remote alpine valley of Svaneti is perhaps one's best choice of accommodation. Located in the alpine resort town of Metisa it is very affordable the alpine views from one's balcony one may not have thought possible - and never at that price.

  • Private Double Room: From $27 With Private Bathroom
  • Bonus: There Is Also An Excellent Sauna

There is much more to Georgia than Tbilisi, and a stay in the mountains in Svaneti couldn't be more of a contrast.

Next: 10 Hostels From Around The World That Might Be Better Than A Hotel