How to get to Georgia from the Turkish border?

Hi there, This year we want to go to Georgia. We have a ticket to Istanbul and would prefer to avoid an Istanbul/Tbilisi flight to see a bit of Turkey, which I love. I found a train from Ankara to Kars (25h): why not? But how do we cross the border: which town? Is it easy (or not)? I’m leaning toward Batumi, but I’m not sure about anything—thanks for your tips! Thanks for your insights

You’ve got 3 border crossings available: Batumi, Posof, and Çıldır. We had an easy crossing. I know the last two for driving through with our vehicle. Lots of trucks use these crossings—maybe you’ll find a driver who can give you a lift closer to the Georgian capital. Don’t forget to buy some cheese in Kars.

Awesome, thanks Lecs for your quick reply! So, two questions: 1/ Do you think there are no more sleeper berths on the Doğu Express (Ankara/Kars) in September because it's the off-season or because sales haven't opened yet?? 2/ What's the best way to get from Kars to Batumi: the bus?? Thanks so much!

You’ll find the necessary information at this link. https://www.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr/tr/turistik/detay/1 Bookings open on October 26th. There’s a link on the page that takes you to a PDF showing the operating days.

I don’t have an answer to your second question,

Hi,

In my opinion, Kars Batumi doesn’t exist—it’s a route that doesn’t make sense.

A long time ago, I took a bus from Tbilisi to Kars, and a Toyota Hiace approached our bus (which was heading to Ardahan) to offer an informal transfer to Kars.

On the other hand, Kars to Artvin, then Hopa, and then toward the border—that route definitely works.

Michel