Pendik to Tbilisi

Pendik to Tbilisi

This guide provides all the necessary information for planning a trip from Pendik, Istanbul, Turkey to Tbilisi, Georgia, including language, currency, distance, how to reach, expenses, best time to go, what to eat, where to go, and frequently asked questions.

Language

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, while the official language of Georgia is Georgian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas of both countries.

Currency

The currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY), while the currency of Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL). It is recommended to exchange currency before traveling or use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.

Distance

The distance between Pendik and Tbilisi is approximately 1,350 kilometers (840 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Tbilisi from Pendik:

• By Plane: Pegasus Airlines and Turkish Airlines offer direct flights from Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) in Pendik to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS). The flight takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• By Bus: Metro Turizm and Kamil Koc operate bus services from Istanbul to Tbilisi. The journey takes approximately 20 hours and costs around 100-150 TRY.
• By Train: There is no direct train service between Pendik and Tbilisi. However, you can take a train from Istanbul to Kars, Turkey, and then transfer to a train to Tbilisi. The total journey time is approximately 30 hours.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Pendik to Tbilisi varies depending on the mode of transportation, time of year, and budget. Here are some estimated expenses:

• Plane: Round-trip flights from Pendik to Tbilisi cost around 200-400 TRY.
• Bus: One-way bus tickets from Istanbul to Tbilisi cost around 100-150 TRY.
• Train: Train tickets from Istanbul to Kars cost around 50-100 TRY, and train tickets from Kars to Tbilisi cost around 30-50 GEL.
• Accommodation: Hostels and guesthouses in Tbilisi offer dorm beds for around 10-20 GEL per night, while private rooms cost around 20-40 GEL per night.
• Food: Meals in Tbilisi are relatively inexpensive. You can find a decent meal for around 10-20 GEL.
• Transportation: Public transportation in Tbilisi is efficient and affordable. A single metro ride costs 0.5 GEL.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Tbilisi is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. However, Tbilisi is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique experiences.

What to Eat

Georgian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Khinkali: Dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
• Khachapuri: Cheese-filled bread.
• Chashushuli: Beef stew.
• Lobio: Bean soup.
• Churchkhela: A sweet made from nuts and grape juice.

Where to Go

Tbilisi is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions:

• Old Town: Explore the historic streets of Old Town, home to charming cafes, shops, and churches.
• Narikala Fortress: Climb to the top of Narikala Fortress for panoramic views of the city.
• Rustaveli Avenue: Stroll along Rustaveli Avenue, the main thoroughfare of Tbilisi, lined with shops, restaurants, and museums.
• Sulfur Baths: Relax in one of Tbilisi's famous sulfur baths.
• Mtatsminda Park: Take a cable car to Mtatsminda Park for stunning views of the city and a visit to the Tbilisi TV Tower.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Pendik to Tbilisi:

• Do I need a visa to travel to Georgia? Citizens of most countries do not require a visa for stays of up to 365 days.
• What is the time difference between Pendik and Tbilisi? Tbilisi is 2 hours ahead of Pendik.
• Is it safe to travel to Tbilisi? Tbilisi is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
• What is the best way to get around Tbilisi? Public transportation in Tbilisi is efficient and affordable. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• What is the currency exchange rate between TRY and GEL? The exchange rate varies, but it is typically around 1 TRY = 0.30 GEL.