Embark on a picturesque weekend escape to the enchanting city of Kutaisi, nestled approximately 220 kilometers west of Tbilisi (a 3.5-hour drive). Serving as the capital of the historic Imereti region and boasting a legacy as one of Europe's oldest settlements, Kutaisi exudes an "old world" village-like ambiance complemented by chic boutique hotels and a burgeoning culinary and cultural scene. Spend your days exploring lively food markets, marveling at the Soviet-era relics, and delving into quirky museums. During the early 19th century, Kutaisi flourished as the epicenter of Georgian creativity, nurturing renowned playwrights, authors, and poets. Today, sculptures and bas-reliefs honoring local musicians, artists, and literary luminaries embellish its streets, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. Nestled alongside the Rioni River amidst sprawling tea fields and hilly farmland, the city also serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the surrounding countryside. And don't miss the chance for an urban exploration adventure in Tskaltubo, where you'll experience a surreal, post-apocalyptic wasteland of abandoned sanatoriums.
Day 1 - A roadtrip, vineyard pitstop and introduction to Kutaisi
Head out from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, following the main highway through the Georgian countryside for most of the journey. If time allows, consider stopping at Baia's Winery, about 40 minutes outside Kutaisi. This female-owned winery provides a chance to explore bio winemaking techniques, indulge in wine tasting, savor home-cooked meals, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Best to reserve in advance.
Run by Baia Abuladze and her siblings, the winery focuses on bio winemaking techniques and actively promotes Imereti wines. Amidst a scenic backdrop of vineyards, visitors can indulge in wine tasting, savor home-cooked meals, and learn about the traditional winemaking processes passed down through generations.
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Another vineyard option in the region around Kutaisi is Makaridze Winery
At the Communal Hotel in Kutaisi, guests are welcomed by a design ethos that seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with authentic Georgian touches, resulting in a truly distinctive ambiance. The centerpiece of the hotel is its communal spaces, where travelers gather to savor meals, share stories, and bask in the sense of community that has become the trademark of these boutique hotels.
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Then, cross the bridge to experience the bustling heart of Kutaisi and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Hike up to Bagrati Cathedral at sunset for amazing views of the city.
The 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral, crowned with a turquoise dome, is a prominent Kutaisi landmark visible citywide, known for its stunning frescoes and adjacent Ukimerioni Fortress ruins. Once a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's where King David the Builder was crowned and is famed for its panoramic views, especially the breathtaking dusk skies. The gates stay open daily until late.
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Dinner at the best restaurant in town - Doli (part of the Communal Hotel Group). Delicious Phkali plate and pear, walnut salad.
Doli restaurant, nestled within Communal Kutaisi, offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with warm, dimly lit surroundings, wine bottle-lined walls, and the tastiest of home-cooked Georgian dishes.
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Day 2 - Explore Kutaisi, monasteries and Tskaltubo.
Morning exploring Kutaisi
After breakfast at Doli, head over to the city's bustling Green Bazaar market. Check out the Soviet-era facade (Kokhida), and the many different vendors selling Georgian produce.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kutaisi's oldest and largest agricultural market, the bustling Green Bazaar. Open every day from morning until early evening, it is always chock full of activity. Stroll through mounds of herbs, seasonal fruits, pickled vegetables, and a photogenic spice shop. Be sure to pause and marvel at the Soviet-era bas-relief 'Kolkhida' adorning the market facade, showcasing scenes from the Kingdom of Colchis and snapshots of local Kutaisi life.
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Marvel at the beautiful Soviet-era bas-relief made by Bernard Neberidze.
Wander through the alleyways near the Green Bazaar and admire the ancient houses with balconies that line the banks of the Rioni River.
Check out Kutaisi's best known street art of an old woman making Khachapuri by Ukrainian artist Sasha Koran.
Situated in Kutaisi's main square, sits the iconic Colchis Fountain adorned with replicas of ancient ritual figurines found in Imereti, including deer, Tamada toastmasters, and the twin horses inspired by Colchian gold earrings.
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Duck into a quirky little tea house for a snack and coffee (or tea).
Near the Opera Theatre, Tea House Foe-Foe, is a cute little cafe offering loose-leaf tea, coffee, and snacks in an artsy setting.
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Walk down Kantselebi Street in Kutaisi's Royal District to see landmarks like the city's first public school and the former Radium Theatre, then explore the vibrant "Wall of Love" alleyway with street art and eateries, before reaching the Deco Mon Plaisir Arch (note: Kutaisi's French connection).
Walk down Kantselebi Street in Kutaisi's Royal District to see landmarks like the city's first public school and the former Radium Theatre, then explore the vibrant "Wall of Love" alleyway with street art and eateries, before reaching the Deco Mon Plaisir Arch, hinting at Kutaisi's French connection.
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Abutting the park, there are numerous parks celebrating famous Georgian artists, poets, athletes, and intellectuals.
Be sure to check out three of Kutaisi's quirky hole-in-the-wall museums: Photo-cinema chronicle museum, Museum of Georgian Sport, and David Kakabadze Art Museum.
This museum is tiny in size, but big on passion. It houses a vast collection of archival photos, newspaper clippings, vintage cameras, and reels depicting old Kutaisi from the Russian Empire era. Donations are encouraged.
The Museum of Georgian Sports, founded in 1970 on the park's other side, is the country's sole institution celebrating Kutaisi's sports legacy, showcasing medals, memorabilia, and archival photos of renowned athletes in popular Georgian sports such as football, judo, and wrestling.
David Kakabadze Art Gallery in the former Hotel de France, founded in 1974, displays paintings by renowned Georgian artists like Niko Pirosmani, alongside David Kakabadze's Cubist landscapes, and a courtyard showcasing damaged Soviet-era sculptures.
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Marvel at the cafes, and nearby parks along the river before heading out of town.
Marvel at the White Bridge (Tetri Khidi), offering views of the rushing Rioni River below, adorned with poetry snippets, and snap a photo with the statue of Picasso’s Boy.
Continuing towards the Rioni river, make your way past the a tiny green park honoring Kutaisi-born actress Veriko Anjaparidze and head to the Golden Marquee, once home to the Imeretian royal family dating back to the 17th century. Sadly, the museum is often closed.
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Afternoon drive to monasteries and Tskaltubo
Drive out to Agrohouse Korena for lunch before heading out to Tskaltubo.
A perfect spot to savor a homemade Imeretian meal in a rustic farmhouse ambiance, with cooking lessons available upon request; advance booking is recommended.
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If you have time driving out to Tskaltubo, pop in to see the impressive monasteries of Gelati and Motsameta.
Located about 2 km downhill towards Kutaisi, Motsameta Monastery, while smaller than Gelati, boasts stunning views from its cliff-top position and includes an old school building and an observatory on its premises.
Founded in 1106 by King David the Builder and located just 20 minutes from Kutaisi, Gelati Monastery is a UNESCO Site featuring a distinctive emerald-tiled roof and fresco-adorned chapel. Historically a major educational hub, it houses important texts and King David’s crypt, although some areas are currently under restoration.
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Head out to Tskaltubo, an abandoned spa town and uberexer's paradise renowned for its therapeutic mineral springs and grand Soviet-era sanatoriums. There are around 25+ sanitoriums and old bath houses throughout the town. Below are our top 5.
Otia's Ezo in Tskaltubo is a popular restaurant known for its authentic Georgian cuisine and rustic, welcoming atmosphere in a beautiful garden setting.
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For dinner, we recommend one of the following restaurants:
Sisters Restaurant frequented by locals and tourists offers a cozy dining experience with a menu of basic traditional Georgian dishes served in an artsy boho-chic setting. Live music played in the evenings.
Visiting Renegade Tea Plantation offers a unique opportunity to explore the lush green tea fields, learn about organic tea production, and enjoy fresh tea tastings through engaging and informative tours. Check to see if tours are offered. Last we heard, Renegade was offering tours on Tuesday and Fridays only.
The newly built Vani Archaeological Museum showcases the rich history of the Colchis region through its extensive collection of artifacts dating from the 8th to 1st centuries BC, including impressive gold jewelry and ancient bronze sculptures.
My name is Saskia, and I'm the Founder of Offbeat Goat, a travel platform for conscious and discerning travelers. We showcase a tightly edited collection of storied places that are aesthetically beautiful, transformative, and have narratives connected to sustainability.
Having spent over two decades traveling and working in economic development and humanitarian efforts, I’ve shifted my focus to sustainable travel. Through Offbeat Goat, I act as curator and storyteller, spotlighting destinations that blend aesthetic appeal with positive impact. I know what I like when I see it and feel it—boutique design-led hotels, local artisans, farm-to-table restaurants, creative design spaces, and those behind-the-scenes experiences that make travel come to life. Our sweet spot, however, is finding places that are beautiful inside and out, dedicated to enriching their communities and preserving the environment.
When I am not on the road, you'll find me crafting stories, filming, and writing from my current home base in Tbilisi, Georgia.
We are excited to share our CityKITs - curated city guides of favourite places to eat, stay and play. Happy trailblazing!
