Kutaisi Itinerary 14 Days: A Journey Through Ancient Colchis (2026)

Welcome to Kutaisi! Upon your arrival at Kutaisi International Airport, take a pre-booked transfer or a shuttle bus to the city center. After settling into your accommodation, it's time to get your first taste of this charming city. Begin your exploration at the Colchis Fountain, a stunning tribute to the ancient kingdom that once thrived here. The fountain is adorned with intricate golden figures, each representing a piece of Georgia's rich history and mythology. From there, take a leisurely stroll through Kutaisi Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, where you can relax and observe the local life. As evening approaches, make your way to the White Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that offers picturesque views of the Rioni River. The bridge is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it's a great place to take some memorable photos. For dinner, indulge in some authentic Imeretian cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants in the area. Be sure to try the local specialty, Imeretian khachapuri, a delicious cheese-filled bread that is a staple of Georgian cuisine. End your day with a glass of local wine and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and cultural heart of Kutaisi. Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Bagrati Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands proudly on a hill overlooking the city. The cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kutaisi and the Rioni River. After exploring the cathedral, head to the bustling Green Bazaar, the city's main market. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, browse the stalls selling fresh produce, local cheeses, spices, and traditional Georgian sweets. Don't miss the opportunity to taste some of the local delicacies and interact with the friendly vendors. In the afternoon, venture out of the city to visit two more UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Gelati Monastery and the Motsameta Monastery. The Gelati Monastery, founded in the 12th century, was a major cultural and intellectual center in medieval Georgia. Admire its stunning frescoes and mosaics, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this sacred place. Just a short drive from Gelati, you'll find the Motsameta Monastery, perched on a cliff overlooking the Tskhaltsitela River. The monastery is a place of pilgrimage and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the evening, return to Kutaisi and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Prepare for a day of adventure as you explore the natural wonders surrounding Kutaisi. Your first stop is the Prometheus Cave, a spectacular underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Take a guided tour through the cave's illuminated chambers and marvel at the incredible rock formations. You can also take a boat ride on the underground river for a truly unique experience. After the cave, head to the Okatse Canyon, a natural monument with a breathtaking cantilevered walkway that extends over the edge of the canyon. The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and the river below. It's an exhilarating experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the Martvili Canyon, a place of stunning natural beauty. Take a boat trip through the canyon's turquoise waters, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. You can also walk along the canyon's paths and enjoy the picturesque scenery. The canyon is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, so you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters if you wish. After a day of exploring these natural wonders, return to Kutaisi in the evening and relax after your adventure-filled day.

Today, we delve into Georgia's Soviet past with a day trip to Chiatura and Tskaltubo. Chiatura, a mining town, is famous for its network of Soviet-era cable cars, which are still in use today. Take a ride on one of these 'metal coffins' for a unique and thrilling experience, and explore the town's gritty, industrial landscape. You'll also visit the Katskhi Pillar, a stunning monastery perched atop a 40-meter high limestone monolith. The pillar is a remarkable sight and a testament to the faith and determination of the monks who built it. In the afternoon, travel to Tskaltubo, a former Soviet spa town that is now a ghost town of abandoned sanatoriums. Explore the crumbling grandeur of these once-luxurious buildings and imagine the town in its heyday. The sanatoriums are a photographer's paradise, with their decaying beauty and eerie atmosphere. It's a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era and a stark reminder of the Soviet Union's collapse. After a day of exploring these unique and thought-provoking sites, return to Kutaisi in the evening.

Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and today you'll get to experience its rich winemaking traditions. Take a day trip to the Imereti wine region, known for its unique grape varietals and traditional winemaking methods. Visit a local family-owned winery, where you'll learn about the qvevri, large clay vessels used for fermenting and aging wine. You'll also get to taste a variety of local wines, accompanied by delicious homemade Georgian snacks. In addition to the winery visit, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the charming villages and beautiful landscapes of the Imereti region. Visit a local market to see the fresh produce and traditional crafts of the area. You can also visit a local family and learn how to make some traditional Georgian dishes, such as khachapuri and churchkhela. It's a day of cultural immersion and culinary delights, and a great way to experience the warm hospitality of the Georgian people.

After several days of exploring, it's time for a more relaxed day in Kutaisi. Start your morning with a visit to the Kutaisi Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden's shady paths and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Kutaisi State Historical Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from the region's history, from ancient Colchis to the present day. It's a great way to learn more about the city's fascinating past. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Kutaisi cable car for panoramic views of the city and the Rioni River. The cable car takes you up to a park with an amusement park, where you can enjoy some fun and games. In the evening, treat yourself to a traditional Georgian dinner at a restaurant with live music. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and the delicious food as you reflect on your journey through this beautiful country.

Embark on a long but rewarding day trip to the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, home to two of Georgia's most impressive historical sites. Your first stop is the Vardzia Cave Monastery, a sprawling complex of caves, tunnels, and churches carved into the side of a mountain. The monastery was built in the 12th century and was once a thriving cultural and spiritual center. Explore the caves and imagine what life was like for the monks who lived here. The scale and intricacy of the complex are truly awe-inspiring. In the afternoon, visit the Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe, a stunning example of Georgian, Ottoman, and Russian architectural styles. The fortress has been beautifully restored and now houses a museum, a mosque, a church, and a synagogue. Walk through the fortress's courtyards and gardens, and climb its towers for panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's a fascinating place to explore and a great way to learn about the region's diverse history. After a long day of sightseeing, return to Kutaisi in the evening.

Escape to the mountains for a day of adventure in the Racha region, one of Georgia's most beautiful and unspoiled areas. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks. Take a scenic drive through the region, stopping at picturesque villages and viewpoints along the way. You can also go for a hike in the mountains, or visit the Shaori Lake, a beautiful reservoir surrounded by forests. In the afternoon, visit the Nikortsminda Cathedral, a masterpiece of Georgian architecture with stunning frescoes and stone carvings. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most important cultural and historical monuments in the region. Afterward, visit a local winery to taste the famous Khvanchkara wine, a semi-sweet red wine that is produced only in this region. It's a day of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious wine, and a great way to experience the diversity of Georgia.

Take a day trip to the Black Sea coast and the vibrant city of Batumi, the capital of the Adjara region. Batumi is a city of contrasts, with its modern skyscrapers and old-world charm. Stroll along the Batumi Boulevard, a long promenade that runs along the beach, and admire the city's unique architecture. You can also visit the Batumi Botanical Garden, one of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the former Soviet Union. In the afternoon, explore the old town of Batumi, with its charming streets, cozy cafes, and lively squares. Visit the Piazza, a beautiful Italian-style square with a clock tower and a mosaic floor. You can also take a ride on the Argo Cable Car for panoramic views of the city and the Black Sea. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a seafood restaurant and watch the sunset over the sea. It's a day of sun, sea, and city exploration, and a great way to experience the coastal culture of Georgia.

Prepare for a breathtaking journey to the Svaneti region, a remote and mountainous area known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture. The journey from Kutaisi to Mestia, the main town in Svaneti, is an adventure in itself, with winding roads, picturesque villages, and panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. Upon arrival in Mestia, settle into your guesthouse and take some time to acclimatize to the high altitude. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Svan dinner and learn about the local culture and traditions from your hosts. Svaneti is a land of ancient traditions and a strong sense of community. The Svan people have their own language and customs, and they are known for their hospitality and resilience. The region is also famous for its defensive stone towers, which were built between the 9th and 12th centuries. These towers are a unique feature of the Svaneti landscape and are a testament to the region's turbulent history. As you explore Svaneti, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to a land of myths and legends.

Today is dedicated to exploring Mestia and its beautiful surroundings. Start your day with a visit to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from the region's history, including ancient manuscripts, icons, and traditional Svanetian household items. Afterward, take a hike to the Chalaadi Glacier, a stunning glacier that is easily accessible from Mestia. The hike takes you through a beautiful forest and along a river, and the views of the glacier are simply breathtaking. In the afternoon, explore the town of Mestia, with its iconic stone towers and charming streets. You can climb one of the towers for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the Margiani's House Museum, a traditional Svan house that has been preserved as a museum. It's a great way to learn about the traditional way of life in Svaneti. In the evening, enjoy another delicious Svan dinner and relax after a day of exploration.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Ushguli, a community of four villages that is one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. The journey to Ushguli is an adventure in itself, with a rough and bumpy road that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Upon arrival in Ushguli, you'll be greeted by a landscape of medieval towers, snow-capped peaks, and pristine nature. Explore the villages and admire the unique architecture of the Svan towers. You can also visit the Lamaria Church, a beautiful 12th-century church with stunning frescoes. In the afternoon, take a hike to the Shkhara Glacier, the highest peak in Georgia. The hike takes you through a beautiful valley and offers breathtaking views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. It's a challenging but rewarding hike that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Svan dinner and spend the night in a local guesthouse. It's a unique opportunity to experience the traditional way of life in this remote and beautiful corner of Georgia.

After a memorable journey through the Svaneti region, it's time to return to Kutaisi. The journey back will give you another opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes of the Georgian countryside. Upon arrival in Kutaisi, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and refresh. In the evening, it's time for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of your incredible journey through Georgia. Choose a restaurant that you particularly enjoyed during your stay, or try a new one that you've been wanting to visit. Indulge in your favorite Georgian dishes and raise a glass of wine to the memories you've made. As you enjoy your final evening in Kutaisi, take some time to reflect on your journey. From the ancient monasteries and vibrant markets of Kutaisi to the natural wonders of the canyons and caves, and the remote beauty of the Svaneti region, you've experienced the best of what Georgia has to offer. It's a country of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, and you'll be leaving with a deeper appreciation for its unique culture and traditions.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time for any last-minute souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to revisit a favorite spot or explore a new neighborhood. When it's time to leave, take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Kutaisi International Airport for your departure. As you fly home, you'll be filled with memories of your incredible journey through Georgia, a country that is sure to capture your heart and leave you wanting to return. We hope you've enjoyed this 14-day itinerary and that it has helped you to discover the best of Kutaisi and its surroundings. Georgia is a country of endless beauty and adventure, and we're sure that you'll be back to explore more of what it has to offer. Until then, safe travels and thank you for choosing to explore Georgia with us.