Kutaisi Itinerary 10 Days: A Journey Through Ancient Colchis (2026)

Arrive at Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) and transfer to your accommodation in the city center. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll to get acquainted with the city. Your first stop is the Colchis Fountain in the central square, a tribute to the ancient kingdom of Colchis and its rich history. The fountain features enlarged replicas of ancient Georgian jewelry, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the time. From there, wander through the charming streets of the Royal District, admiring the 19th-century architecture and the blend of European and Georgian styles. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Imeretian dinner at one of the local restaurants. We recommend Palaty, known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Try the local specialty, Imeretian khachapuri, a delicious cheese-filled bread. After dinner, take a walk along the Rioni River and cross the White Bridge, a pedestrian bridge offering beautiful views of the city and the river. The bridge is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and a great place to soak in the evening ambiance of Kutaisi.

Today, you'll delve into the spiritual and cultural heart of Georgia with visits to two of its most important monasteries. Start your day with a trip to Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site founded by King David the Builder in the 12th century. This monastic complex was a major cultural and intellectual center for centuries and is renowned for its stunning mosaics and frescoes. Take your time to explore the main cathedral, the academy, and the bell tower, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Next, visit Motsameta Monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking the Tskaltsitela River. This smaller, more intimate monastery is dedicated to the two brother saints, David and Constantine, who were martyred in the 8th century. The monastery's picturesque location and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for reflection. In the afternoon, return to Kutaisi and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Green Bazaar. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's a great place to experience local life and sample some of the region's culinary delights.

This morning, visit Bagrati Cathedral, another of Kutaisi's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture. Although partially reconstructed, it remains an impressive symbol of the unified Georgian kingdom. Enjoy the panoramic views of Kutaisi and the Rioni River from the cathedral grounds. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Kutaisi's Old Town. Wander through the Jewish Quarter, with its historic synagogue, and discover hidden courtyards and traditional houses. Visit the Kutaisi State Historical Museum to learn more about the region's rich history, from ancient Colchis to the present day. The museum houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, manuscripts, and ethnographic materials. In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Meskhishvili Theatre or the Kutaisi Opera Theatre, both of which showcase the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Today is all about exploring the natural wonders surrounding Kutaisi. Take a day trip to Okatse Canyon, known for its breathtaking walkway that hangs over a deep gorge. The 780-meter-long walkway offers stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding forests. It's an exhilarating experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Next, visit Martvili Canyon, a beautiful gorge with turquoise waters. Take a boat trip through the canyon to admire the waterfalls and the lush vegetation. You can also walk along the canyon's edge and enjoy the scenic views. In the afternoon, explore Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia's largest and most impressive caves. Take a guided tour through its vast halls, admiring the stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. The cave is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

Today, you'll explore two fascinating towns that offer a glimpse into Georgia's Soviet past. Start with a visit to Tskaltubo, a former Soviet spa resort. The town is filled with abandoned sanatoriums, bathhouses, and other grand buildings that have fallen into disrepair. It's a hauntingly beautiful place for urban exploration and photography. In the afternoon, travel to Chiatura, a mining town famous for its network of Soviet-era cable cars. While many of the old cable cars are no longer in operation, you can still see the impressive infrastructure and ride some of the newer lines. The town's industrial landscape and concrete apartment blocks offer a stark contrast to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. It's a unique and thought-provoking experience.

Today is dedicated to the flavors of Imereti, Georgia's second-largest wine region. Visit a local winery to learn about the traditional qvevri winemaking method, where wine is fermented in large clay vessels buried underground. Enjoy a wine tasting session and sample some of the region's unique grape varietals, such as Tsolikouri and Tsitska. After the wine tasting, indulge in a traditional Georgian supra (feast) at the winery. Enjoy a variety of Imeretian dishes, accompanied by more wine and traditional music. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience Georgian hospitality and culture firsthand. In the afternoon, you can visit another winery or return to Kutaisi for a relaxing evening.

Today, you'll visit two more remarkable religious sites near Chiatura. Start with a trip to Katskhi Pillar, a natural limestone monolith topped by a small church. The pillar stands 40 meters high and is a truly awe-inspiring sight. While the church is not open to the public, you can admire the pillar from below and visit the small monastery at its base. Next, visit Mgvimevi Convent, a complex of caves and a church built into a cliff face. The convent dates back to the 13th century and is a remarkable example of Georgian rock-cut architecture. Explore the caves and the church, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this unique site. In the afternoon, return to Kutaisi and relax.

Today, you'll visit Sataplia Nature Reserve, a protected area known for its beautiful forests, caves, and dinosaur footprints. Take a guided tour through the reserve, which includes a visit to a cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and a glass platform overlooking the forest canopy. The highlight of the reserve is the collection of fossilized dinosaur footprints, which are over 120 million years old. After exploring the nature reserve, you can have a picnic in the park or visit the on-site museum to learn more about the area's geology and paleontology. It's a fun and educational day trip for all ages. In the evening, return to Kutaisi and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city's fine restaurants.

Today, take a day trip to Sairme, a mountain resort known for its mineral waters and beautiful scenery. The resort is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by forests. You can relax and rejuvenate in the spa, drink the mineral water from the springs, or go for a hike in the surrounding mountains. Sairme is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The resort has a variety of hotels and restaurants, so you can spend the whole day there. In the evening, return to Kutaisi.

Enjoy a final Georgian breakfast and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to revisit one of your favorite spots in the city. Afterward, transfer to Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) for your departure, filled with unforgettable memories of your journey through ancient Colchis.