Georgia is fast becoming one of Europe's most exciting winter destinations. Beyond the famous summer wine routes and sunny beaches, the colder months transform the country into a snowy fairytale. Imagine driving past ancient stone towers draped in white, cozying up in mountain cottages, and skiing down world-class slopes without the massive crowds of the Alps.
While public transport ("marshrutkas") exists, relying on it limits your freedom significantly. You are tied to rigid schedules, crowded seats, and drivers who rarely stop for photos. To truly hunt for the best panoramic views and discover hidden gems at your own pace, you need your own wheels.
If you are planning to rent a car in Georgia, here are the top 5 winter wonderlands you must visit in 2026, matched with the perfect car for the journey.
Located just 120km north of the capital, Gudauri is the crown jewel of Georgia's ski resorts. It sits high in the Greater Caucasus range and offers powdery snow that attracts freeriders from around the globe. But the journey starts before you even arrive—the drive along the historic Georgian Military Highway is an attraction in itself, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise Zhinvali Reservoir and the medieval Ananuri Fortress.
Why go: Aside from the endless ski runs, Gudauri is famous for its vibrant nightlife and paragliding opportunities. It’s the place to be if you want adrenaline by day and fun by night.
The Route: The road is paved and generally well-cleaned. However, as you approach the resort, you will cross high-altitude sections like the Jvari Pass, which can get icy and foggy.
Recommended Car: You need engine power for the steep serpentines and traction for the icy patches. If you start your trip with car rental in Tbilisi, we strongly recommend booking a Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester. These crossovers handle the curves with ease.
If Gudauri is for thrill-seekers, Bakuriani is for families and nature lovers. Nestled in the heart of Georgia, this resort is famous for its dense pine forests, which fill the crisp winter air with a wonderful scent. The slopes here are less steep, making it the perfect learning ground for beginners and children.
Why go: Don't miss the legendary "Kukushka" train—a scenic narrow-gauge railway that winds through the snowy forest between Borjomi and Bakuriani. It’s a magical experience for kids and adults alike.
The Route: The drive takes you through the scenic Borjomi Gorge. While the road is lower in altitude than Gudauri, the final ascent to Bakuriani often sees heavy snowfall.
Recommended Car: Traveling with kids usually means lots of luggage, sleds, and ski gear. A spacious Minivan or a large SUV is your best bet for comfort.
Pro Tip: If you fly into the western part of the country, car rental in Kutaisi puts you significantly closer to Bakuriani (about 2.5 hours) than driving from Tbilisi.
Svaneti in winter looks like a scene straight out of "Game of Thrones." This remote region is dotted with ancient medieval stone towers that stand guard over the villages. Seeing these towers covered in deep snow, with the jagged peaks of the Caucasus in the background, is a sight you will remember for the rest of your life.
Why go: Experience the unique Svan culture, taste the delicious local meat pie called "Kubdari," and ski at the Hatsvali or Tetnuldi resorts, which offer some of the most spectacular views in Europe.
The Route (Warning): The road to Mestia is paved but it is long, winding, and cuts through deep gorges. Rockfalls and black ice are common occurrences in winter.
Recommended Car: Do not attempt this journey in a sedan. A heavy, reliable 4x4 (like a Toyota Prado) is mandatory for safety and clearance.
Important Note: While Mestia is accessible, the road further up to Ushguli (Europe's highest village) is extremely dangerous in deep winter. Please consult our support team before attempting to drive past Mestia.
Not everyone wants to ski. If you prefer a relaxing winter break focused on wellness, Borjomi is the ideal destination. Famous worldwide for its volcanic mineral water, this town offers a peaceful retreat from the cold winds of the high peaks.
Why go: Take a walk through the snow-covered Central Park and, for a unique experience, take a dip in the warm open-air Sulfur Pools. Swimming in hot water while snow falls around you is truly magical.
The Route: Borjomi is easily accessible via the central highway, which is kept clear of snow almost all winter.
Recommended Car: Since the road is flat and well-maintained, a comfortable Sedan or Crossover is sufficient here. You can check our full fleet to choose your comfort level.
Seeing the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church standing solitary against the backdrop of the massive, snowy Mount Kazbek (5,054m) is the ultimate Georgian postcard photo. It is a place of immense power and beauty.
Why go: For the most iconic view in the Caucasus and a luxurious stay at the Rooms Hotel, famous for its terrace views.
The Route: It follows the same path as Gudauri (Military Highway) but goes further north, crossing the Jvari Pass. This pass is the highest point of the road and is often closed during heavy blizzards. Always check the weather!
Recommended Car: An SUV is essential for this route.
Safety Note: Driving up to the Gergeti Church itself in winter is very risky due to ice. We recommend parking in the town and taking a specialized local taxi for the final steep climb.
Driving in a foreign country during winter requires preparation. Before you start your engine, keep these Star Car policies in mind for a safe trip:
Winter Tires are Included: We don't charge extra for safety. All our vehicles come equipped with high-quality seasonal winter tires to ensure better grip on icy roads.
One-Way Rentals: Want to see more? You can pick up your car in one city and drop it off in another (e.g., Batumi car rental pickup and Tbilisi drop-off) to maximize your sightseeing time.
Driver Age: Ensure the main driver is at least 20 years old to rent with us.
Minimum Rental: Planning a quick getaway? Keep in mind our minimum rental period is 3 days—perfect for a long weekend in the mountains!
Winter in Georgia is waiting for you. Don't limit yourself to one location—grab the keys and explore them all.
Book your winter ride with Star Car today: Choose Your Car 24/7 Support via WhatsApp
