Kutaisi, the heart of the Imereti region, is one of the oldest cities in the world—around 3,500 years old. Once the capital of Georgia, it is now home to approximately 120,000 people. Beyond its architectural masterpieces from the Golden Age, Kutaisi boasts a historic center untouched by mass tourism, where authentic eateries, barbershops, and pharmacies have been operating the same way for decades.
Beyond exploring the old city quarters, visitors can take short trips (20–30 km) to evergreen canyons, caves, medieval monasteries, and ancient churches, many of which still preserve their original frescoed interiors. And, of course, no visit is complete without a winery tour—Imereti is renowned for its winemaking traditions. Just 15 km from Kutaisi, there is an international airport, making the city a key gateway for travelers visiting Georgia.
The New York Times has named Kutaisi one of its must-visit destinations for 2025.
Art historian and tour guide Galina Apryshkina shares with Paper Kartuli how to make the most of your time in Georgia’s most authentic city.
About the City
Historically, Kutaisi is the main and oldest of the existing cities in Western Georgia. It was the capital of the Principality of Imereti and, at times, the capital of the entire country. According to many ancient historians and writers, Kutaisi was once the capital of the Kingdom of Colchis, the land of the Colchians, an ancient Georgian people.
In 1810, Kutaisi was annexed by the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, the city became Georgia’s second-largest industrial center, home to automobile, tractor, lithopone, electromechanical, and other factories.
Kutaisi has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, humid winters. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 5.4°C (41.7°F), while July is the hottest, with an average temperature of 25–30°C (77–86°F).
The Rioni River divides Kutaisi into two parts. The right bank is home to the medieval Bagrati Cathedral, while the left bank features the historic center, including the Royal and Jewish quarters from the 19th century and the Mtsvane Kvavila (“Green Flower”) Monastery with a scenic viewpoint.
The central districts on both sides of the river are surrounded by low-rise residential areas with gardens and Soviet-era apartment blocks near former industrial sites. Many of these buildings have remained unrepaired since the factories shut down.
New construction in Kutaisi is limited, with a few exceptions, such as the university campus on the Baghdati road and the former parliament building, which is planned to be converted into an IT hub.
How to Get to Kutaisi from Tbilisi
By Bus
The most convenient way to travel is by Tbilisi–Batumi buses, which stop in Kutaisi. The two main operators are Metro and CityBus.
Duration: ~3.5–4 hours
Price: 35 GEL
Alternatively, direct buses depart from Didube Bus Station every hour from 6 AM to 7 PM.
Duration: ~4.5 hours
Price: 20 GEL
By Car
After the reconstruction of the Rikoti Pass highway, the journey takes only 3 hours, excluding potential traffic delays.
By Train
There are a few options:
Direct Tbilisi–Kutaisi train
Price: from 9 GEL
Duration: ~6 hours
Arrival: Kutaisi city railway station
Tbilisi–Zugdidi train (recommended option)
Get off at: Rioni Station
Price: from 14 GEL
Duration: ~4 hours
Taxi from Rioni to Kutaisi center: 10–15 GEL
Marshrutka (minibus) option: 1 GEL
For those traveling from Tbilisi to Batumi, there is an option to stop at Kutaisi International Airport Station and then take a marshrutka (2 GEL) or a taxi (15–20 GEL, ~15 km) to the city center.
Total duration: ~3 hours
Ticket price: from 31 GEL
In peak season, tickets should be booked in advance.
What to See in Kutaisi
A great starting point is Central Square and the Colchis Fountain. This multi-tiered structure features 30 gilded sculptures of deer, rams, lions, tigers, and horses—all enlarged replicas of Bronze Age figurines and jewelry discovered during archaeological excavations in Imereti and other Georgian regions.
Built from Haragauli stone, gold plating, and blue mosaic tiles, it is the most expensive fountain in Georgia.
Next, take a walk through the Royal Quarter. One of the oldest buildings here is Okros Chardakhi (“Golden Canopy”). It was once part of an entire complex that included the Great and Small Palaces, a church, and fortified walls. The exact date of construction is unknown, but the first mentions of the Golden Canopy appear in 15th-century records.
Today, only a small two-story building—the Small Palace—has survived. It was originally used to host guests and now functions as a museum complex.
Be sure to notice the sprawling plane tree in front of the palace. It is estimated to be around 600 years old. According to legend, Imeretian kings once delivered justice under its branches, and even death sentences were carried out in its shade.
Another symbol of the city is the White Bridge, featuring a statue of a boy with two hats—a reference to the 1968 Georgian film An Unusual Exhibition, directed by Eldar Shengelaia. directed by Eldar Shengelaia and based on a script by Rezo Gabriadze. The screenplay was written by Rezo Gabriadze, who later created the classics Mimino, Don’t Grieve, and Kin-dza-dza!. An Unusual Exhibition was shot in Kutaisi and Batumi. If you watch it, you’ll discover the meaning behind the boy’s two hats.
In the 20th century, jumping off the bridge into the Rioni River was a popular pastime among boys of Kutaisi. However, do not attempt this today—after the construction of a hydroelectric power station upstream, the water level has significantly dropped.
Built in 1980, the Glory to Labor Monument was one of the most ambitious Soviet-era projects in the region. The idea behind it was for sculptors and artists to exhibit their works within architectural structures. Although the complex is now in a state of decline, it still deserves attention.
Another relatively modern landmark that should not be missed in Kutaisi is the huge Kolkheti mosaic above the entrance to the Green Market. It depicts key moments in the history of Western Georgia, from antiquity to modern times. In addition to rulers and heroes, the mosaic features a Georgian family, Soviet workers, office clerks, and even portraits of real residents of Kutaisi from the 1980s.
By the way, the Green Market is the largest covered market in Georgia, and it is also worth a visit.
After a walk through the Royal Quarter, you can take the cable car to cross from the left bank to the right bank in a retro cabin from the 1970s. The ride costs 1 lari one way.
The upper station of the cable car is located in the Gabashvili Culture and Recreation Park. Here, you can relive childhood memories by riding the attractions, enjoying ice cream, admiring panoramic views of the city, and taking a walk to Kutaisi’s main landmark—the Bagrati Cathedral, built in 1003.
This cross-domed cathedral, built on Ukimerioni Hill, marked the beginning of Georgia’s Golden Age. Though destroyed in the 17th century, it remained a picturesque ruin until its controversial 21st-century restoration. The reconstruction sparked such debate that UNESCO removed Bagrati from its World Heritage List. Despite this, ornamental fragments have been preserved, the interior space of the cathedral is breathtaking, and the views from the hill over the city remain stunning.
From Bagrati Cathedral, you can take a 15-minute walk down to another bridge over the Rioni River—the Chain Bridge.
After crossing the bridge, you will find one of Kutaisi’s most famous murals—a woman preparing Imeretian khachapuri. Nearby, you can admire the beautiful Annunciation Church, which was originally built as a Catholic church but became Orthodox in the late 20th century.
From there, you can continue exploring the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter.
According to archaeological findings, Jews have lived in Georgia for approximately 2,500 years. That is why Jewish families in Georgia often have Georgian surnames and speak the Georgian language. There is also a unique dialect known as “Georgian Hebrew” or Kivruli, but it is rarely used today.
Unlike most Georgian cities, where Jewish communities exist without distinct districts, Kutaisi has a dedicated Jewish Quarter, where you can visit local synagogue—on weekdays from 8 to 10, both AM and PM, or on Saturday from 9 AM to noon. The interiors of the synagogue are vibrant and unique.
If you’re walking around at sunset, it’s worth passing through the Jewish Quarter and climbing the hill to Mtsvane Kvavila Monastery. You can also visit the Pantheon, where Kutaisi’s most respected residents are buried. The viewing platform near the monastery offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the Bagrati Cathedral.
Museums of Kutaisi
The State Historical Museum on Pushkin Street is housed in a pre-revolutionary bank building, which is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. It is one of the largest museums in Georgia, operating for over 100 years with a collection of 230,000 artifacts.
Opening hours: 10AM–6PM
Ticket price: 3 GEL for adults
David Kakabadze Art Gallery
This gallery has a small exhibition, but if you are interested in painting, it is definitely worth a visit.
Museum of Photo and Cinema Chronicles
One of the most charming museums in Kutaisi. It houses a collection of vintage cameras and photographs of old Kutaisi. Admission is free.
Historical Landmarks Near Kutaisi
Geguti Palace
Geguti is the largest and best-preserved palace from Georgia’s Golden Age. It was presumably built in the 9th century as a summer residence, later expanded in the 12th–13th centuries. Today, it remains off the beaten tourist path. Walking among the ruins, touching the thousand-year-old stone walls, and imagining the political intrigues, alliances, and celebrations that took place within these walls is a truly unique experience.
Gelati Monastery (Must-See!)
Gelati is the most important medieval monastery in Georgia. Founded by King David the Builder in 1106, it became his final resting place. The entire architectural complex has been remarkably well-preserved, including its stunning frescoes. Gelati is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Natural Attractions Near Kutaisi
Prometheus Cave (Kumistavi)
Prometheus Cave is a karst cave located 30 km from Kutaisi. It has a total length of 11 km, but only about 1.5 km is open to tourists. The artistic design of the cave and surrounding area was done by German designers. A breathtaking laser light show is created using LED lighting, making the cave feel truly magical.
A small underground river flows through the cave, leading to a lake where visitors can take a boat ride for an unforgettable experience.
Okatse Canyon
Okatse Canyon is a spectacular natural wonder, approximately 10 meters wide and up to 100 meters deep. A 780-meter-long suspended walkway is built along the overhanging cliffs, ending with a 20-meter observation platform that hovers over the canyon, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. This spot is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a fantastic place for birdwatching.
Martvili Canyon
Located 50 km west of Kutaisi, Martvili Canyon was formed by the Abasha River. It stretches for 2.4 km, with depths ranging from 50 to 70 meters. In the upper part of the canyon, visitors can take a boat ride, while the lower section features numerous waterfalls and a well-maintained walking trail with scenic viewpoints. Thanks to its lush evergreen vegetation, the canyon looks like summer all year round. The crystal-clear water exhibits vibrant emerald and blue hues. Bring warm clothes, as the canyon tends to be chilly.
Event Tourism
Kutaisi is often called “the city of May and roses”. For over 100 years, the city has celebrated Kutaisoba, or City Day, on May 2. It is a lively, authentic festival where tourists are in the minority, and locals genuinely and joyfully celebrate their city.
Imereti is a wine-producing region, and you can explore its wines and winemakers at festivals held in December, usually on the first weekend of the month.
Amerimeri Festival brings together up to 70 small wineries and members of the Natural Wine Association, offering guests wines from different regions of Georgia. In recent years, the festival has been hosted at the Tskaltubo resort, 10 km from Kutaisi.
The “Unusual Exhibition” Festival is held directly in Kutaisi, typically the day after Amerimeri. This event exclusively features winemakers from Western Georgia.
Where to Eat in Kutaisi
Georgian Cuisine
Palaty
A cozy café in the heart of the city with live music in the evenings. Try the veal chakapuli and cream-filled donuts.
Maisis Ezo
This restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion with a spacious summer veranda and garden, making it a great spot for both a delicious dinner and Instagram-worthy photos.
More Places to Eat in Kutais
Elegant Dining
Sisters
Another elegant spot with great cuisine and live music. Be sure to try Shkmeruli (chicken in garlic sauce).
Casual Eateries
Kebabs of Vikentiy
A legendary eatery operating since 1956. People still line up for their aromatic kebabs, best enjoyed with draft beer or lemonade. The kebab is served with a generous portion of bread, which you should dip in Satsabeli sauce—a true delight.
El Depo
A 24-hour spot where you can watch football while enjoying excellent khinkali.
Asian Cuisine
Kutaisi has many international students, which has led to the opening of authentic Asian restaurants:
Siam Thai Restaurant (Thai cuisine) or White Elephant (Indian cuisine).
Breakfast Spots
Kutaisi wakes up late, so finding an early breakfast can be tricky!
MiniArt Café
Opens at 8 AM and offers a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
Fleur
Opens at 9 AM and features a cozy outdoor terrace.
Where to Drink
Beer
Kaiser
The best place to experience the vibe of Kutaisi life. Tourists are rare here, but locals love it. Huge portions will surprise you.
Weihenstephan Beer
Located in the historic center, it offers a wide selection of beer and snacks.
Wine & Cocktails
Wine Vibes
One of the largest wine lists in Kutaisi.
Winetage
A wine bar and shop offering a carefully curated selection of red, amber, and pet-nat wines from local Imeretian winemakers and beyond.
Gallery Terrace
A fantastic cocktail bar with a scenic terrace.
Where to Stay in Kutaisi
Kutaisi offers a wide range of hotels and hostels:
Newport Kutaisi
One of the most comfortable hotels in the heart of the city, known for its excellent breakfasts (250 GEL/night).
Communal
A recently opened boutique hotel (200 GEL/night).
Magnolia
A charming hotel with an elegant terrace overlooking the river (180 GEL/night).
Solomon
A modern hotel with a minimalist interior (150 GEL/night).
Hotel 1870
A budget-friendly hotel in a historic mansion, featuring a shared fireplace lounge and a summer terrace (50 GEL/night).
For short-term apartment rentals, check Airbnb or ss.ge—the best areas to stay in include Pushkin Street, Kazbegi Street, or Queen Tamar Street.
The most comfortable stays can be found in small cottages or rare modern buildings. Soviet-era panel housing is often far from the center and may have utility issues.
Getting Around Kutaisi
Walking – the historic center is compact and best explored on foot.
Bikes and scooters – not ideal due to the lack of bike lanes, cobblestone streets, and Kutaisi’s hilly terrain.
Public Transport:
Buses – 30 tetri, payable by bank card.
Marshrutkas – 70 tetri, also payable by card.
