Kutaisi - Discovering Georgia

Travelling to Kutaisi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kutaisi, a pretty good destination in Georgia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kutaisi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kutaisi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Georgia, here's everything to know about Kutaisi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kutaisi

Kutaisi is a city located in western Georgia, home to around 150,000 residents. It is the third-largest city in the country and serves as the capital of the Imereti region. The city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with a number of important ancient sites located in and around the area - including the Bagrati Cathedral and the Gelati Monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kutaisi also features a number of museums, art galleries, theatres, and other cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in learning more about Georgian history and culture. Additionally, the city serves as an important transportation hub, with an airport, train station, and major highways connecting it to other parts of the country.

What to visit in Kutaisi

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kutaisi, Georgia: 1. Bagrati Cathedral: This medieval cathedral was built in the 11th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally built as a symbol of the unification of Georgia and is considered one of the most significant monuments in the country.
2. Gelati Monastery: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kutaisi is the Gelati Monastery. It was founded in the 12th century by King David IV of Georgia and served as a center for culture and education in the region.
3. Sataplia Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is located just outside of Kutaisi and is home to a number of unique geological formations, including stalactites and stalagmites in the Sataplia Cave. Visitors can also see dinosaur footprints and hike through the scenic reserve.
4. Prometheus Cave: The Prometheus Cave is another popular attraction near Kutaisi. Visitors can take a boat ride through the cave's underground river and see stunning rock formations, underground lakes, and waterfalls.
5. Bagrati Street: This street is considered the heart of Kutaisi's old town. It's lined with historic buildings, traditional shops, and restaurants serving local cuisine. Visitors can also see the statue of King Bagrat III, who founded the Bagrati Cathedral.
6. Tskaltubo Spa Resort: This historic spa resort was a popular destination for Soviet leaders in the past. Visitors can still enjoy the warm mineral waters and beautiful art nouveau architecture of the resort.
Overall, Kutaisi offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions for visitors to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Georgia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kutaisi.

When to go on holiday to Kutaisi

The best time to visit Kutaisi, Georgia is during the spring season, from March to May, and the autumn season, from September to November. During these times, you can expect mild temperatures and less rain, making it a great time to explore the city's attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you plan to visit during the summer season, from June to August, be prepared for hotter temperatures and higher levels of humidity. Winter season, from December to February, can be quite cold and rainy, but it's an excellent time to experience the snowy landscapes and winter sports.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kutaisi

There are several ways to get to Kutaisi, Georgia: 1. By plane: Kutaisi International Airport is located about 20km from the city center and serves flights by several airlines from different parts of Europe and Asia.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that offer services to Kutaisi from neighboring cities and towns. Most commonly, buses leave from Tbilisi and Batumi and take around 4-5 hours to reach Kutaisi.
3. By train: Kutaisi is also accessible by train from Tbilisi, with several trains running daily. It takes around 3-4 hours to reach Kutaisi by train.
4. By car: Kutaisi can be reached by car from different parts of Georgia and neighboring countries. It is located about 220km from Tbilisi and around 170km from Batumi.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kutaisi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kutaisi

Kutaisi is a city in the western part of Georgia, known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Kutaisi: 1. Khachapuri - Khachapuri is a Georgian cheese-filled bread that is popular throughout the country. The dough is usually made from flour, water, and yeast, and the filling is made from a combination of different cheeses, such as Sulguni, Imeruli, and Feta.
2. Chakhokhbili - Chakhokhbili is a traditional Georgian chicken stew made with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, such as coriander, dill, and parsley. It is typically served with bread or rice.
3. Lobio - Lobio is a Georgian bean dish made with red kidney beans, onions, garlic, and a mixture of herbs and spices. It is often mixed with walnuts and served with bread.
4. Mtsvadi - Mtsvadi is a Georgian barbecue dish made from skewered chunks of seasoned meat (usually pork or beef). The meat is grilled over an open flame and served with onions and bread.
5. Badrijani Nigvzit - Badrijani Nigvzit is a popular Georgian appetizer made with slices of fried eggplant that are filled with a paste made from walnuts, garlic, and spices. 6. Churchkhela - Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian sweet made from grape must and nuts (usually walnuts or hazelnuts). The mixture is shaped into long strings, which are then dipped in flour and hung to dry. It is a popular snack that can be found in most markets in Kutaisi.
7. Tkemali - Tkemali is a sour plum sauce that is commonly used as a condiment in Georgian cuisine. It is made from sour plums, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is often used to add flavor to meat dishes, such as mtsvadi.
You can find general info about typical foods in Georgia here.

Is Kutaisi an expensive destination for tourists?

Kutaisi is a relatively affordable destination for tourists compared to other European cities. The cost of living in Kutaisi is lower compared to the capital city Tbilisi. You can find budget-friendly accommodation options, and food and drinks are quite affordable at local restaurants and cafes. Attractions such as the Bagrati Cathedral, Gelati Monastery, and Prometheus Cave are reasonably priced. However, prices for some tourist activities and services can vary depending on the time of year and demand. Overall, Kutaisi is an affordable destination that offers great value for money.

Where to find accomodation in Kutaisi

The best areas to find accommodation in Kutaisi are the city center and the area near the Bagrati Cathedral. These areas offer easy access to the city's main attractions, including the historic Gelati Monastery and the well-known Prometheus Cave. Another popular location for accommodation is near the Kutaisi International Airport, which is convenient for those arriving or departing from the city by air.
You can check hotel prices at Kutaisi here:
Booking.com

Is Kutaisi a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kutaisi is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Crimes against tourists in Kutaisi are rare, and visitors should not experience any problems as long as they use common sense and take basic precautions, such as avoiding unlit and deserted areas at night, not leaving valuable belongings unattended, and being aware of their surroundings. However, as with any travel destination, tourists should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times, and take appropriate measures to protect themselves from potential risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Georgia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kutaisi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kutaisi the most?

Kutaisi in Georgia can be enjoyed by all types of travelers including couples, young people looking for fun and families. For couples, Kutaisi offers a chance to explore the city's rich history and culture. You can take romantic walks in the city parks, visit the ancient Bagrati Cathedral or spend a day exploring the historic Gelati Monastery. Young people looking for fun will certainly enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in Kutaisi with plenty of bars and restaurants. You can also take part in adventurous activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and para-gliding. Families can also enjoy Kutaisi's many attractions such as visiting the Sataplia cave and dinosaur footprints, exploring the naturally beautiful Okatse canyon, or taking a dip in the Rioni River. Overall, Kutaisi offers something for everyone and is a destination that travelers of all age groups can enjoy.

How to get around Kutaisi

In Kutaisi, you can use a variety of transportation modes to get around the city. The most common way to move around is by taxi, either private or shared. Another option is to take a bus or a marshrutka (a shuttle van) to reach your destination. Both types of public transport are cheap and easily available. Additionally, you may choose to rent a car or scooter to explore the city at your own pace. However, it's important to note that traffic in Kutaisi can be chaotic, and parking can be difficult to find in some areas.

What to see around Kutaisi

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kutaisi: 1. Gelati Monastery - Located just 11km outside of Kutaisi, the Gelati Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Georgian medieval architecture.
2. Bagrati Cathedral - A 1000-year-old cathedral located in the heart of Kutaisi. It offers stunning views of the city.
3. Prometheus Cave - Located 20 km away from Kutaisi, Prometheus Cave is a natural wonder featuring spectacular underground rivers, cascades and stalactites.
4. Sataplia Nature Reserve - Located 13km from Kutaisi, it is a natural reserve that offers visitors stunning views of a canyon, dinosaur footprints and a beautiful cave.
5. Martvili Canyon - it is also located 35 km from Kutaisi, a picturesque canyon with crystal clear blue water and beautiful waterfalls.
6. Motsameta Monastery - Located just 6km outside of Kutaisi, it is a small but beautiful monastery with a spectacular view from the cliff.
7. The Baia’s wine cellar - Located just 10km away from Kutaisi, where visitors can learn about the wine-making traditions of Georgia and sample some of the best wines of the region.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Georgia you can click here.

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