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About Georgia
Georgia offers one of America's most diverse travel experiences, combining urban sophistication with remarkable natural splendor. Atlanta hosts Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), the world's busiest airport, providing easy access for international visitors, while the state's coastline, Appalachian foothills, and fertile piedmont plains offer endless exploration. Civil rights heritage, literary history (Margaret Mitchell, Flannery O'Connor), and a globally influential music scene (R.E.M., Outkast, Usher) give Georgia cultural depth that rewards curious travelers. The Peach State's famed Southern hospitality extends from upscale Buckhead restaurants to roadside BBQ pits.
- Capital
- Atlanta
- Largest city
- Atlanta
- Population
- 10,912,876
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Eastern Time (ET) — UTC-5 (EST) / UTC-4 (EDT)
Explore Georgia by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Georgia
The 6 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Savannah Historic District
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Stone Mountain Park
World of Coca-Cola
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Georgia Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Georgia, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Georgia
- Days 1-2Georgia city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Georgia
- Days 1-3Georgia comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Georgia, departure
Where to stay in Georgia
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $75-110
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $175-280
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $450-800
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
Check rates on Booking.comThe St. Regis Atlanta
Check rates on Booking.comThe Whitley, A Luxury Collection Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comOmni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Georgia
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Bacchanalia
The Grey
Gunshow
Staplehouse
Miller Union
Mary Mac's Tea Room
Getting around Georgia
Georgia's primary transportation hub is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), connected to downtown Atlanta via MARTA Gold/Red rail lines ($2.50 USD, 20 minutes). Within Atlanta, MARTA rail and buses cover major attractions. A rental car is essential for exploring state parks, the Golden Isles, Savannah, and the mountains. Interstates I-85, I-75, and I-20 are the main arteries.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $40-60 | $110-170 | $280-500 |
| Food (per day) | $20-30 | $45-70 | $100-170 |
| Transportation | $5-10 | $20-40 | $50-80 |
| Activities | $10-20 | $25-50 | $60-120 |
| Daily total | $75-110 | $175-280 | $450-800 |
Best time to visit Georgia
March to May and September to November
Spring azalea season (March–April) is spectacular statewide. Fall foliage peaks mid-October in north Georgia mountains. The Masters golf tournament in Augusta (first week of April) causes hotel price spikes statewide. St. Patrick's Day in Savannah (March 17) draws 500,000+ visitors.
Essential travel tips
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the world's busiest; allow 90 minutes for connections and use the free Plane Train between terminals.
- MARTA rail connects ATL airport to downtown Atlanta for $2.50 USD; avoid driving in Atlanta during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM weekdays).
- Savannah's Historic District is walkable; park on the outskirts and use free Savannah DOT electric shuttles downtown.
- A rental car (from $35/day USD at ATL) is essential outside Atlanta and Savannah — Georgia's best attractions are spread statewide.
- Tipping is standard at 18–20% in restaurants; 15% at bars is accepted.
- Georgia's combined state-and-local sales tax averages 7–9%; Atlanta's rate is approximately 8.9%.
- Download the Georgia 511 app (511ga.org) for real-time highway conditions and traffic alerts.
- Book Georgia State Parks cabin rentals (gastateparks.org) well in advance — popular parks fill up months ahead for holiday weekends.
Safety information
Keep valuables secured in Atlanta; car break-ins occur in parking lots near tourist areas including Centennial Olympic Park and the BeltLine trailheads.
Alligators inhabit Georgia's swamps, marshes, ponds, and golf courses statewide; maintain a minimum 30-foot (9 m) distance and never feed them.
Check NOAA weather forecasts at weather.gov before visiting the Golden Isles during hurricane season (June–November).
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in Georgia.
Download the My311ATL app for non-emergency Atlanta city services and reporting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Georgia?
The best time to visit Georgia is March.
Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?
Entry requirements follow United States rules. Citizens from VWP countries may enter visa-free for up to 90 days under ESTA (apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov). All others require a valid US non-immigrant visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Georgia?
The currency in Georgia is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Georgia?
The main language(s) spoken in Georgia: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Georgia?
The top attractions in Georgia include Georgia Aquarium, Savannah Historic District, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Cumberland Island National Seashore, and Stone Mountain Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.