As someone living in Georgia and often helping travelers stay connected here, I’ve tested almost every mobile provider you’ll come across. Georgia has excellent coverage in most areas, but not all SIM cards are created equal when it comes to tourist convenience, mountain reception, or eSIM support.
Here’s my personal guide to the 5 best SIM card options for tourists in Georgia, based on real experience and practical use around the country.
1. Airalo (eSIM)
If you want zero hassle and plan ahead, Airalo is my top recommendation. It’s a digital eSIM you can set up before you even land in Georgia. The purchase and installation process is simple, especially compared to the local provider eSIMs which require navigating Georgian-language menus or visiting physical stores.
- Best for: Tourists who want to be online immediately on arrival.
- Price: Very competitive (starts around $4.50 for 1GB of data).
- Coverage: Uses Magti’s network, so great throughout Georgia.
- How to buy: Online via Airalo app or website.
Local Tip: Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible. Airalo doesn’t offer Georgian phone numbers, only data plans.
You can purchase Airalo eSim here and get 15% off if you are a new user.
2. Magti (Physical SIM or eSIM)
Magti is what I personally use, and it has the widest coverage in Georgia, especially in mountainous or rural areas. If you’re traveling to places like Kazbegi, Mestia, or Tusheti, Magti is the most reliable local option.
- Best for: Overall coverage and reliability.
- Tourist SIM options: They offer packages tailored to visitors at the airport.
- eSIM available: Yes, but requires some setup via their app or in-store.
- Where to buy: Tbilisi airport kiosks, Magti stores, major supermarkets.
Local Tip: Go for the 7 or 15-day tourist plan. Unlimited data options are available and affordable.
3. Silknet (Physical SIM or eSIM)
Silknet is another major provider with solid coverage across Georgia. While not quite as extensive as Magti in remote regions, it still performs well in most cities and tourist spots.
- Best for: City travel and short-term stays.
- Prices: Slightly cheaper than Magti, with decent data bundles.
- eSIM available: Yes, can be activated in store or via customer support.
- Where to buy: Airports, Silknet stores, convenience shops.
Local Tip: Silknet has good customer service in English at airport branches.
4. Cellfie (Physical SIM or eSIM)
Cellfie is the budget-friendly option. It has more limited coverage, especially in the mountains, but works fine in cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. If you’re mainly staying in urban areas and want to save a few lari, Cellfie is a good choice.
- Best for: Budget travelers and short stays in urban areas.
- Prices: The cheapest of the three Georgian providers.
- eSIM available: Yes, but process may not be as smooth as Airalo.
- Where to buy: Cellfie stores and major markets.
Local Tip: If you’re not leaving the city, this is a solid value choice.
5. Holafly (eSIM)
Holafly is another international eSIM provider and works well for tourists who want unlimited data. It’s more expensive than Airalo but includes 24/7 customer support and fast setup.
- Best for: Unlimited data users and ease of use.
- Price: Higher than Airalo, but includes unlimited data.
- Coverage: Uses local Georgian networks.
- How to buy: Online via Holafly’s website.
Local Tip: Ideal if you plan to tether or stream a lot during your stay.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to pop in a SIM on arrival or set up an eSIM from your couch before departure, Georgia gives tourists plenty of options. For full coverage and flexibility, Magti is your best local choice. But if you want quick, affordable setup and only need data, Airalo is hard to beat.
This guide is written based on real local experience across Georgia, including remote regions and cities. These are not generic travel tips – just honest advice from someone who lives here and has tested these SIMs in the field.
