This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Zugdidi.
Zugdidi, Georgia, is typically not a destination, but rather a transport hub to a further destination. Travelers that continue their journey to either Mestia in the Svaneti region or the breakaway republic Abkhazia will pass by Zugdidi.
Although it is possible to take the overnight train from Tbilisi and continue immediately by mini bus to the next destination, it may be nice to break up the long trip in Zugdidi and stay here overnight in a convenient Zugdidi, Georgia hostel. You can also reach Zugdidi by frequent mini buses from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, and other cities in Georgia.
Zugdidi is a medium-sized city in the northwest of Georgia. While the more famous Georgian cities Tbilisi and Batumi have a very typical outspoken and unique identity, Zugdidi will feel more of a typical Soviet city. There are a few memorials and parks worth visiting in the city centre, but you won’t stay entertained in the city for days. Not too far from Zugdidi, you can also visit a national park where you can go water rafting in canyons, hiking, and enjoying hot springs.
There are a few hostels in Zugdidi, Georgia. Some of them operate seasonally only. There are also several cheap guest houses and homestays. In fact, you book a single room for the same price as a bed in hostel’s dormitory, although that may mean that you will stay a bit further from the city centre.
Mini buses will leave throughout the day to other destinations in Georgia and the border with Abkhazia. However, you will reduce your waiting time significantly if you depart (early) in the morning. For departures to Svaneti however, you should be at the bus station no later than 6:30 a.m., since those mini buses are coordinated with the arrival time of the overnight train from Tbilisi.
Written by local enthusiast for Zugdidi hostels
Martin Straatman