Kutaisi is one of the oldest and second largest city in Georgia, which is the base point for exploring Georgia. However, people miss out on the things to do in Kutaisi in a hurry to wander to the major attractions in Georgia. Well, here’s a reality check, Kutaisi houses some of the most magnificently gorgeous landmarks and architecture. The locations here pride themselves on expressing the history of the city and keeping alive the traditional ways of life. You’ll come across plenty of natural beauty as you take a tour of this town through the various activities it offers. You can go for boat tours, hike up the trails to breathtaking viewpoints, and visit culturally and historically significant tourist attractions. So, let’s indulge more in these aspects of this city.
Top Things to do in Kutaisi: A Travel Guide to Georgia’s Quaint City
This time when you land in Kutaisi, make sure that you get involved in some of the best things to do in Kutaisi. From architectural marvels to natural elements, you’d be in awe of the brilliance of this place. The mystical and enchanting vibes exuding from the monasteries and caves allure you to explore them. The city is also known as the City of Eternal Spring because of the rustic charm and ever green surroundings full of exotic flowers. The moment you step into this city, you’d be transported to a bygone era, which contrasts with the dizzying pace of Georgia. So here are the things to do in Kutaisi Georgia, which would show you the exquisite side of this city.
- Visit the Bagrati Cathedral
- Explore the Prometheus Cave
- Learn about Gelati Monastery’s History
- Hike over the Okatse Canyon
- Kutaisi City Center
- Shop at Green Bazaar
- Fall into a Trance at the Kinchkha Waterfall
- Have Fun at the Amusement Park
1. Visit the Bagrati Cathedral: A Symbol of the Republic of Georgia
This cathedral was built by King Bagrat III, after whom it’s named. This historical location displays grandeur and a regal aura, which is why it has been maintained for decades and renovated from time to time. It was last renovated in 2012, when old stones, along with a mix of new stones and steel was used to preserve the structure. However, this led to the monument losing its position as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. This location still holds significant value for the tourists though, and even locals who plan grand weddings here. The view from this place is an awe-inspiring one. So, do add this location to your things to do in Kutaisi list.
Best time to visit:
- Monday - Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 A.M to 5 P.M
Things to do: Explore the church from the inside, plan a picnic, take in the view from the top, and attend an event
How to reach: Walk from the Red Bridge in Kutaisi Center or drive up there
2. Explore the Prometheus Cave – One of the Largest Caves in Europe
The Prometheus Cave is an excellent example of top things to do in Kutaisi because of the glorious and magnificent view of the cave as you enter. There are 22 halls in there, but only 6 of them are accessible to the public. The lush greenery and vegetation surrounding this location adds an extra layer of mystery to it. Unfortunately, this cave doesn’t have any connection to the Greek mythology, but it’s still a legendary attraction in this city. You’ll also come across stalagmites and stalactites inside the cave. The lakes, waterfalls, canals, and pearls adorning the cave enhance its beauty and make it one of the best places to visit in Kutaisi.
Best time to visit: 10 A.M to 7 P.M
Things to do: Walk around the cave and marvel at the natural beauty inside and take a boat trip to the underground river
How to reach: Drive from Kutaisi’s city center to the caves or catch a bus from the Red Bridge to Tskaltubo, and then board another bus to the cave.
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3. Learn About Gelati Monastery’s History: The Burial Site of the Georgian Kings
This is one of the attractions in Georgia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by King David IV and was the center of arts and science during Georgia’s Golden Era. King David IV along with other Georgian Kings were buried here. This monastery is also where the first queen of Georgia, Queen Tamar’s coronation was held. The primary motive of this place was to preach Christian learnings and culture as well. You won’t find this tourist attraction heavily crowded, so it’s the perfect place to explore the monastery while appreciating the peaceful and quiet atmosphere. You’d even find a huge flock of birds sitting under the dome of the monastery as soon as you enter. I hope these reasons are enough to add this location to the things to do in Kutaisi itinerary of yours.
Best time to visit: 9 A.M to 7 P.M
Things to do: Revel in the tranquility of the place and admire the beautiful architecture
How to reach: You can either drive to the monastery or hire a taxi from Kutaisi Center. The Marshrutkas also leave from the State Theatre every day.
4. Hike Over the Okatse Canyon: Walk Amidst Nature’s Marvels
If you’re planning a honeymoon in Georgia, then you must visit this place in Kutaisi. The highlight of visiting Okatse Canyon is the journey to it, which involves hiking through the Dadiani historical forest. Once there, you’d have to go through a walkway, which ends in a stunning viewpoint. It takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach this location, but it’s absolutely worth it. It’s quite adventurous to walk at a great height, you’d be able to feel the adrenaline rushing through you. It’s an immensely exhilarating Kutaisi Georgia things to do plan because once you reach the destination because the view from there is breathtaking.
Best time to visit: Winters
Things to do: Hike through the Dadiani Forest, walk at a great height to reach the viewpoint, soak in the marvelous view, and click pictures against picturesque backdrops
How to reach: Take a Marshrutka from the Kutaisi Central Station to Khoni and then take a Marshrutka from Khoni to Gordi. You can also drive there
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5. Go to Kutaisi City Center: The Hub of Architectural Buildings
Visiting Kutaisi City Center is considered one of the things to do around Kutaisi because of the newly renovated buildings here that boast of architectural excellence. You can wander the streets marveling at the buildings. You can also visit the Opera House, where warrior statues and a lion statue with a raised paw stand tall for all the tourists to see and click pictures with it. This place is greatly connected with the nearby tourist attractions, which is another reason why this location is a must visit place in Kutaisi.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
Things to do: Wander in the streets admiring the architecture, visit the Opera House, and click pictures
How to reach: You can either take a bus, a taxi or a private car from the Kutaisi Airport
6. Shop at Green Bazaar: Step into the Lively Agricultural Bazaar
When you’re making your list of things to do in Kutaisi, don’t miss out on this incredible bazaar, which is the oldest one in the region. You’ll find everything related to agriculture, such as herbs and spices, seasonal fruits, dry fruits, and so on. It’s quite a famous tourist attraction in Kutaisi, where people from all over the world visit. There’s also a book market at the edge of the park, available at affordable prices. It's the perfect place to buy souvenirs to remember this place by. So, add this location to your itinerary and indulge in some retail therapy.
Best time to visit: All year round
Things to do: Buy local agriculture items, shop for second-hand books, explore the market
7. Fall into a Trance at the Kinchkha Waterfall: Listen to the Soothing Sounds of Water
If you’re visiting the Okatse Canyon, which you should, then it’s wise to visit this waterfall as well because it's among the things to do near Kutaisi. The Kinchkha waterfall is a powerful natural element at the height of 1000 m and watching the free-falling water is a surreal experience. The dense vegetation surrounding it enhances the gorgeous view, where you can click insta-worthy pictures. Lumina lake is also near this waterfall, where you can swim and have a relaxing time. Camping at this location is the highlight of the trip; however, this is one of the things to do in Kutaisi in summer to get the best view.
Best time to visit: Summers
Things to do: Listen to the soothing sounds of the waterfall, camp in the forest, swim in Lumina Lake, and click pictures
How to reach: Take a car from from Okatse Canyon to the waterfall
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8. Have Fun at the Amusement Park: Reach the Entertainment Center of Kutaisi
In addition to the historical and cultural tourist spots in the city, Kutaisi is also home to a fun amusement park, Besik Gabashvili, where you can reach through a rustic cable car. Now, don’t be afraid because the cable car is in good condition and offers some incredible views on the way. The amusement park includes a Ferris wheel and other thrilling rides to entertain you; after all, the adventure in Georgia has just begun. You can also eat scrumptious Georgian delicacies at Dzirdzveli restaurant. It’s the perfect way to spend a day at Kutaisi with family.
Best time to visit: 12 P.M to 8 P.M
Things to do: Enjoy the various rides at the amusement park, relish authentic dishes, such as Khachapuri
How to reach: Take a cab or drive there on your own
The things to do in Kutaisi are aplenty, but it’s important to focus on the ones that would set your soul on fire and would make your vacation worthwhile. From romantic walks along the Okatse Canyon to adventurous activities at the amusement park, you’ll never get bored of spending time in this wonderful city. It’s the perfect place to plan a holiday with your family, friends or partner, so what are you waiting for? Book our Georgia vacation packages and finds the joys of exploring a new city.
FAQs of Kutaisi
Kutaisi is famous for its gorgeous landscapes and vistas of greenery and cultural attractions that would make anyone’s heart swoon. Some of its major attractions are Gelati Monastery, Bagrati Cathedral, Kutaisi Market, Okatse Canyon, and so on.
August to September are the best months to visit Kutaisi as the weather’s pelasant with low chances of precipitation. Late May to Early June is also ideal to visit this place.
Tourists can hike to the Okatse Canyon, camp near the Kinchkha waterfall, or visit the amusement park for some fun and thrilling rides. Kutaisi offers you an ultimate chance to make a lifetime worth of memories through these activities.
The Central Market or the Green Bazaar is the best shopping place in this city. You’d find all agricultural products ranging from herbs and spices, dry fruits, seasonal fruits, and also a book market to buy second-hand books.
Kutaisi is an excellent place to visit with family because of the magnificent architecture, the gorgeous scenery, and a calm environment. It’s perfect to spend quality time with your family here.
Kutaisi is full of historical monuments that boast of its glorious history. You can visit the Bagrati Cathedral, explore the Gelati Monastery, venture to the Prometheus Cave, and many more such historically significant places.
Yes, Kutaisi is worth visiting because of the monumental structures and architecture that are located here. In addition, the vistas of lush greenery and the lively marketplaces make it all the more excellent.
Two to three days are enough to soak in the beauty of this quaint city and to visit all the historical landmarks and to do all the things that this city has to offer.
