1 January 2026
Landing in Tbilisi? The Complete Guide to Car Rental at TBS Airport
For most international travelers, the journey to Georgia begins at Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport (TBS). After a long flight, the last thing you want to deal with is navigating a confusing public transport system, negotiating prices with taxi drivers, or standing in long queues at rental desk kiosks.
Having your own vehicle ready upon arrival is the most efficient way to start your trip. At Star Car, we have optimized the car rental Tbilisi airport process to be as fast and stress-free as possible.
Why Choose a "Meet & Greet" Service?
Many travelers assume that booking with a large international brand at a kiosk is the fastest option. However, this often involves waiting in line while agents process paperwork for multiple customers.
Star Car operates differently. We offer a premium "Meet & Greet" service that prioritizes your time:
- Personalized Arrival: We track your flight number. Whether your flight lands early or is delayed, our representative will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name.
- Immediate Handover: Our office is located just 20 minutes from the airport, but we bring the car directly to the terminal. You do not need to take a shuttle bus to an off-site lot.
- Paperwork in 10 Minutes: We prepare the contract in advance. A quick signature and vehicle inspection are all that stand between you and the road.
- 24/7 Availability: Flights to Georgia often arrive late at night or early in the morning. We offer 24/7 delivery services to ensure you are never left stranded.
Essential Airport Tips for New Arrivals
While our team prepares your vehicle, you might need to sort out a few logistics. Here is a quick guide to navigating the arrivals hall:
- SIM Cards: If you need mobile data for navigation, we recommend purchasing a SIM card from the Magti or Geocell kiosks located in the arrivals hall. These providers offer the best coverage if you plan to rent a car Tbilisi and drive to mountain regions.
- Currency Exchange: While you can pay for your rental with a card, having some Georgian Lari (GEL) cash is useful for small shops. Reliable ATMs and exchange offices are available right after passport control.
- Navigation Assistance: If you are unsure about the route to your hotel, our representative will happily help you set up Google Maps or Waze on your phone before you drive off.
Driving from the Airport to the City Center
Tbilisi International Airport is located approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the city center (Freedom Square). The route is straightforward via the George W. Bush Highway.
- Travel Time: The drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Road Conditions: The highway is modern, well-lit, and fully paved.
- Parking in Tbilisi: Once you reach the city, be aware that Tbilisi utilizes a zonal parking system. When you car rental Tbilisi with us, ask our team for advice on downloading the parking app to avoid fines.
Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Itinerary
Your choice of vehicle should depend on your immediate plans after landing.
If you are staying in Tbilisi for business or leisure, a compact sedan or hatchback is the ideal choice. The city has narrow streets in the historic districts, and a smaller car is easier to park.
However, if you plan to drive directly from the airport to ski resorts like Gudauri or mountain regions like Kazbegi, we strongly advise you to rent a car from our SUV category. A 4x4 vehicle provides the safety and traction necessary for mountain passes, especially during the winter months.
Start Your Trip with Confidence
Don't leave your transportation to chance. By booking your vehicle in advance, you ensure a smooth transition from the airplane seat to the driver's seat.
Check Availability for Car Rental at Tbilisi Airport