Western Georgia
Kutaisi
Kutaisi is Georgia's third city and its ancient capital, but its real value is what surrounds it: vast lit caves, narrow canyons with hanging walkways, and waterfalls — all within an hour, and halfway between Tbilisi and Batumi.
6.5
hrs from TBS airport
0.5
hrs from BUS airport
1 day to 2 nightsSuggested stay
Why visit Kutaisi?
✓The natural stop between Tbilisi and Batumi
✓The most natural variety in a small area
✓Lit caves that work well for children
✓Cheaper than the main tourist cities
What to see
1
Prometheus CaveA vast colour-lit cave with paved walkways and a boat ride at the end.
2
Okatse CanyonA steel walkway suspended on the edge of a 140 m deep gorge.
3
Kinchkha waterfallA tall waterfall into a blue pool — close to Okatse.
4
Martvili CanyonA blue-boat ride inside a narrow rock gorge.
5
Bagrati and Gelati monasteriesUNESCO sites on a hill above the city.
Best time to visit
April–October. The caves stay cold all year (14°C) so bring a light jacket.
How to get to Kutaisi
There is no train and no comfortable public transport between Georgian cities. The practical option for a family is a car with a driver who meets you at the airport, stays with you throughout, and knows the mountain roads.
Cars serving Kutaisi
All ←Sedan with driver
$110 / day
Book now
Sedan with driver
$105 / day
Book now
Sedan with driver
$170 / day
Book now
Common questions about Kutaisi
Should I visit it on the way to Batumi?
Yes, that is the best routing: Tbilisi → Kutaisi (overnight) → Batumi. It splits the drive and adds a full day of sights.
Are the caves suitable for children and older visitors?
Yes, the paths are paved, lit and stepped. The tour takes about an hour.