Georgia currency secrets every traveller should know.

Before you step off the plane in Tbilisi, knowing these currency secrets can save you time and money and can save you a whole lot of head-scratching. 

From colourful Georgian lari banknotes to the quirks of exchange offices, this guide is packed with practical tips and cultural curiosities. 

Whether you’re planning to rely on card payments or you want to buy Georgian currency in advance, here’s everything you need to know before your trip.

What is the Republic of Georgia currency?

The official currency of Georgia is the Georgian lari (GEL), and it has been the national currency since the mid-1990s. It is issued by the National Bank of Georgia. 

The name lari is an old Georgian word meaning “hoard” or “property,” and it’s divided into 100 tetri. 

You’ll spot the currency symbol ₾ on price tags, receipts and exchange rate boards. 

Today, the Georgian lari currency is the only legal tender in the Republic of Georgia, and it’s widely used across the country in everything from big hotels to tiny market stalls.

A quick look at the Georgian lari

The Georgian lari is a vibrant mix of culture and history. Banknotes feature notable figures, landmarks and scenes from Georgia’s past, and the designs often incorporate the distinctive Georgian alphabet. 

This makes the notes beautiful and boosts their popularity as souvenirs. 

The designs are influenced by Georgia’s long history and diverse regions. If you look closely, you’ll notice tiny security features that protect against fraud.

The denominations of lari notes you’ll most often see in circulation are 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 GEL, with Georgian lari coins ranging from 1, 2 and 5 lari down to tetri coins in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 tetri values. 

The 100 tetri coin equals one lari, so don’t be fooled into thinking you’ve stumbled across an oversized piece of small change.

National currency and how it came to be

Georgia’s national currency was established in 1995, replacing the Georgian kupon lari, which had been in use until the collapse of the Soviet Union. 

The introduction of the lari stabilised the country’s economy, reduced inflation and improved the recognition of Georgia’s independent monetary system. 

The national bank still oversees the circulation and value of the lari, introducing new banknotes and coins as needed. 

It’s worth noting that the design elements are deeply influenced by Georgian culture, with patterns and imagery derived from centuries-old art.

Currency exchange in Georgia

Currency exchange is easy to find in cities and larger towns, with boards in tourist areas showing the exchange rates today for the lari and foreign currency like the British pound, US dollar or euro. 

Rates can vary, and some exchange offices add extra fees. 

Order your Georgian lari from Manor FX before you go to avoid hunting for the best deal on arrival and to avoid hidden charges. 

We specialise in rare and exotic currency, so you can lock in a great rate and land in Georgia ready to spend. 

Exchange offices: what to expect

Exchange offices are plentiful in Tbilisi and other major cities, often found near markets, hotels and busy streets, with rates clearly displayed. 

Most will accept British pounds, US dollars and euros, though the availability of other foreign currencies depends on the location. 

Service quality can be hit-and-miss, and opening hours aren’t always convenient. 

The performance of these offices can vary; some are very efficient, while others may require more paperwork, so choose ones with good visibility and a steady flow of customers. 

Many don’t open late into the evening, so plan your exchanges accordingly. 

Order your Georgian lari from Manor FX before you travel to avoid the hassle of finding a good rate or dealing with extra paperwork. 

Exchange rates and keeping track

Exchange rates fluctuate, so it’s smart to check an online currency converter before you change your money.  

Exchange offices’ rates will be slightly lower than the mid-market rate you see online, as they include a margin for profit. 

To get the best value, compare a few rates on the same day and avoid exchanging large amounts at airports, where the rates are usually less favourable.

How the exchange rate works for UK travellers

If you’re travelling from the United Kingdom, you’ll convert British pounds to Georgian lari.

At the time of writing (11/08/2025), one British pound buys several lari, but the exact value changes daily. 

For example, £50 might get you around 170 GEL, depending on the rate. 

Currency conversions are straightforward, but it’s wise to use our online exchange rate tool before travelling so you have a ballpark figure in mind.  

Paying by card in Georgia

In larger cities and tourist areas, credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere. 

Card payments are common in hotels, restaurants and supermarkets, but in smaller shops and rural areas, cash is still the local currency king. 

Watch out for exchange rate fees when using your card abroad, and let your bank know you’re travelling to prevent security blocks. 

If you’re using a card without foreign transaction fees, you might find it a convenient alternative to carrying too much cash.

Spending smart: lari banknotes and tetri coins

Lari banknotes are colourful and durable, and the designs celebrate Georgia’s culture and history. 

The coins, especially the smaller tetri coins,  are handy for public transport, small market purchases and tips. 

Coins are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 tetri, plus 1, 2 and 5 lari coins. 

Keep a mix of both banknotes and coins in your wallet, as some smaller shops prefer exact change.

If you come back with leftover travel money, we’ll help you convert Georgia currency to GBP.

How to get your currency with Manor FX 

The smartest way to get currency for Georgia before your trip is through Manor FX.

Unlike most banks and post offices in the UK, we stock rare and exotic currencies like the Georgian lari, so you don’t have to worry about last-minute exchanges in Georgia. 

Simply order online, choose the amount you need, and we’ll deliver your travel money straight to your door. Or you can click and collect if you prefer.

This locks in a great Georgian currency rate and means you arrive with cash in hand for taxis, tips, and your first few meals, with no hunting for exchange offices when you could be exploring.

Final tips before you go

• Check the rate today before changing large sums.
• Carry both card and cash; card payments are easy in cities, but local currency is essential elsewhere. 
• Keep some smaller denominations for tips and small purchases.
• Be mindful of exchange rate fees if using your card abroad.
• Enjoy the culture and history behind every Georgian lari banknote.
• Change any leftover travel money with Manor FX, we offer competitive currency exchange rates for Georgian currency to GBP conversions.  

With this knowledgesecrets in mind, you’ll be ready to spend confidently and explore one of the most fascinating countries in the region.

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