Parking in Kutaisi: town, airport and attractions
After Tbilisi, parking in Kutaisi feels like a holiday: the city is small and calm, and almost everywhere you can leave the car for free. There are just a couple of things to know — mainly at the sights and the airport.
Parking in the city centre
Central Kutaisi is compact. Along the streets by the central square with the Colchis Fountain, on Rustaveli and around the White Bridge there are spaces, and parking is usually free. On weekdays and market days it gets busier — then just move a block or two away, where it's always quieter.
The old lanes can be narrow: don't block the road or courtyard entrances, and leave room for oncoming cars.
Kutaisi Airport (Kopitnari)
Kutaisi airport is the main gateway for low-cost flights, and many people start their Georgia trip here. By the terminal there's a short drop-off/pick-up zone and a paid lot for longer waits. If you're flying in and picking up a car, it's easiest to be met right at the exit — then you don't think about parking at all.
At the sights of Imereti
The main spots near Kutaisi have organised car parks:
- Bagrati Cathedral — parking by the climb up to the church.
- Gelati Monastery (UNESCO) — a lot at the entrance.
- Motsameta Monastery — a small area, tight at weekends.
- Prometheus Cave and Sataplia — proper car parks, sometimes a small fee.
- Martvili and Okatse canyons (a bit further) — parking by the ticket office.
At weekends and in high season, arrive early: by midday the lots at the popular monasteries and caves fill up.
Tips
- Free doesn't mean "anywhere": don't park on lawns, pavements or under signs.
- The market and centre are lively during the day — allow a couple of minutes to find a spot.
- On the mountain roads to the monasteries, park only on level ground, with the handbrake on and a gear engaged.
Kutaisi is an ideal base for exploring Imereti by car: parking is rarely a problem anywhere, and Gelati, the canyons and the caves are all easy to reach on your own.
We help with parking payment
When you rent a car with Cartome, we help you pay for parking: we'll show you how to pay for a paid zone and set up the app, help with the car's parking permit, and point out where you can park for free. You don't have to figure out the local system on your own — just ask us and we'll sort it out.