The city that was forgotten, and what you find on returning
Kutaisi sits on the western side of Georgia, on the banks of the Rioni River — less famous than Tbilisi, and more authentic for it. It was the capital of the kingdom of Colchis, of the mythical golden fleece, and later the capital of the kingdom of Abkhazia. Around it spread world heritage sites, enormous caves and green canyons — a rare combination of deep history and dramatic nature.
For those seeking the less touristy Georgia, with the feel of a real city and not just a postcard — Kutaisi is the answer.
What to see in Kutaisi
1. The Gelati Monastery
What it is: a 12th-century monastery built by King David the Builder in 1106 — a burial place of kings and a center of learning that housed the Georgian academy for centuries. A UNESCO site, with Byzantine frescoes and mosaics — saints and heroes painted in gold on a blue background.
Getting there: about 11 km from the center — by taxi, private driver or minibus. Free entry, though a small donation is appreciated.
Tip: arrive in the morning, before the groups. The inner courtyard and the main chapel are quieter early on.
2. Bagrati Cathedral
What it is: a cathedral built in the year 1003 on a hill above the city — a symbol of Georgia’s unification under King Bagrat III. Also a UNESCO site. The dome and façade were recently restored, but the original structure is still impressive, and the view of the surroundings — the city, the river and the mountains — is worth the climb.
Getting there: 15 minutes on foot from the center, or a short taxi.
Tip: combine it with Gelati the same day — both sites are close and together they form a complete picture of medieval Georgia.
3. The Prometheus Cave
What it is: one of Georgia’s largest stalactite caves — an underground river, lakes and colored formations you don’t see elsewhere. Part of the tour is by boat inside the cave.
Getting there: about 20 km from Kutaisi, near the village of Tskaltubo. By bus, taxi or organized tour.
Tip: bring a light jacket — it’s cool inside the cave even in summer. The boat inside the cave is worth the extra — don’t skip it.
4. The Okatse Canyon
What it is: a walkway clinging to the cliff wall, tens of meters above a deep green canyon. Spectacular, thrilling and less crowded than the Prometheus Cave.
Getting there: about 50 km from Kutaisi, near the village of Okatse. A private driver or minibus — the most comfortable.
Tip: the full visit takes about two or three hours. Closed shoes with good grip — essential. In rain the walkway may close.
5. The Martvili Canyon
What it is: a boat ride between green cliffs and waterfalls, over a clear river — one of the most photogenic spots in Georgia. Less famous than Okatse, and quieter for it.
Getting there: about 50 km from Kutaisi, toward Martvili. A private driver is recommended — it can be combined with Okatse the same day.
Tip: come with clothes you don’t mind getting wet — the boat passes under the waterfalls. A waterproof camera doesn’t hurt.
Kutaisi as a travel base
What it is: Kutaisi is ideal as a hub for overnight stays — from here you head out to the canyons, the caves and the heritage sites, and return to a quiet city with prices lower than Tbilisi.
Recommended plan:
- Day one — Gelati and Bagrati
- Day two — the Okatse and Martvili canyons
- Day three — the Prometheus Cave and back to Tbilisi
Tip: you can go and come back in a day from Tbilisi, but at least one night is worth it — the morning in the city is very different from the bustle of the capital.
How to get there
From Tbilisi: about a 3-hour trip — minibus from the central station, private driver or a domestic flight to Kutaisi airport.
Within the city: a small, walkable center. For the out-of-town sites — taxi, local driver or organized tour.
Tip: combining the canyons and the caves in one day with a driver who knows the area — saves time and lets you stop according to the weather. Hotels in Kutaisi