Kutaisi by Car: What to See in the City and on Day Trips Around It
If you are in Kutaisi for two or three days, a car opens up a lot: walk the old town in the morning and be among the canyons and forests of western Georgia an hour later.
What to see in Kutaisi
Start in the centre with the Colchis Fountain, one of the symbols of modern Kutaisi; its figures are based on golden archaeological finds from ancient Colchis. From the main square, walk the old streets to the Rioni river, see the White Bridge and stroll along the embankment — several historic bridges give great views of the Rioni and the white stones on its bed.
One of the city's main sights is Bagrati Cathedral on the hill above Kutaisi. From there, drive on to Motsameta Monastery and then to Gelati Monastery.
Prometheus Cave
One of the most popular drives from Kutaisi — the cave near the village of Kumistavi, about 40 km from the city.
Sataplia reserve
Travelling with children? Sataplia is only about 7 km from Kutaisi: real fossilised dinosaur footprints, a walk through the Colchic forest, a cave and a viewing platform over the Kutaisi area.
Tskaltubo
On the way to Prometheus Cave, stop in Tskaltubo — once one of the most famous resorts of the Soviet Union, today an unusual mix of working sanatoriums, a large green park and monumental 20th-century resort architecture. It is very close, so combine it with the cave rather than giving it a separate day.
Martvili Canyon
For nature, water and great photos, head to Martvili Canyon — about 55 minutes from Kutaisi. The Abasha river runs through it with its typical turquoise water; a 700-metre trail with bridges and viewpoints crosses the canyon, and short boat rides are available.
Okatse and Kinchkha waterfall
With a full free day, continue to Okatse Canyon, famous for its long hanging walkway along the canyon wall. Kinchkha waterfall is nearby, so the two are easy to see together.
2-day itinerary
Day 1: central Kutaisi → Bagrati Cathedral → Motsameta → Gelati → evening in the centre.
Day 2: Tskaltubo → Prometheus Cave → Martvili Canyon → back to Kutaisi.