Kutaisi Itinerary 7 Days: A Journey Through Ancient Colchis (2026)

Your adventure begins in Kutaisi, one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. After settling into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll through the city center to soak in the local atmosphere. The heart of the city is the Colchis Fountain in the main square, an impressive monument adorned with enlarged replicas of ancient Georgian jewelry, paying homage to the legendary kingdom of Colchis. From there, wander through the charming streets, admiring the 19th-century architecture and the blend of old and new that defines Kutaisi. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Imeretian dinner at one of the local restaurants. Be sure to try the famous Imeretian Khachapuri, a delicious cheese-filled bread that originates from this region. A great place to start your culinary journey is at Palaty, a restaurant known for its authentic Georgian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. As you dine, you might be treated to the sounds of traditional Georgian music, a perfect introduction to the country's rich cultural heritage.

Today, we delve into the spiritual and cultural heart of Georgia with visits to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start your day with a trip to Gelati Monastery, a masterpiece of the Georgian Golden Age. Founded in the 12th century by King David the Builder, Gelati was a major cultural and intellectual center for centuries. Admire the stunning mosaics and frescoes that adorn the interior of the main cathedral, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the monastery complex. Next, we visit Motsameta Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Rioni River. This smaller, more intimate monastery is a place of pilgrimage and offers a tranquil atmosphere for reflection. In the afternoon, we return to Kutaisi and immerse ourselves in the vibrant chaos of the Green Bazaar. This bustling market is a sensory overload, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and spices to local cheeses and churchkhela (a traditional Georgian candy). It's a great place to experience local life and pick up some unique souvenirs. End your day with a ride on the old Soviet-era cable car for panoramic views of the city as the sun sets.

Prepare for a day of adventure as we explore the natural wonders surrounding Kutaisi. Our first stop is Okatse Canyon, known for its breathtaking treetop walkway that extends over the canyon. The walk offers stunning views of the river below and the surrounding forests. It's a thrilling experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Next, we head to Martvili Canyon, a place of serene beauty where you can take a boat ride through the emerald-green waters of the Abasha River. The canyon was once a private bathing place for the Dadiani royal family, and its lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls create a magical atmosphere. In the afternoon, we descend into the depths of Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia's largest and most impressive cave systems. A well-lit path takes you through vast halls adorned with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. The tour culminates in a boat ride on an underground lake, a truly unforgettable experience.

Today, we take a fascinating journey back in time to the Soviet era with a visit to Chiatura, a mining town famous for its network of Stalin-era cable cars. These 'metal coffins' were once the primary mode of transportation for the miners, and while many are no longer in use, they remain a powerful symbol of the town's industrial past. We'll explore the town, see the remaining cable car stations, and learn about the history of manganese mining in the region. Nearby, we'll visit the Katskhi Pillar, a natural limestone monolith topped by a small church. This extraordinary sight has been a place of worship for centuries and is a testament to the deep faith of the Georgian people. While visitors are not allowed to climb the pillar, the view from below is awe-inspiring. This day trip offers a unique glimpse into a different side of Georgia, away from the usual tourist trail.

No trip to Georgia is complete without experiencing its legendary wine culture. Today, we explore the Imereti wine region, known for its unique grape varietals and traditional winemaking techniques. We'll visit a local family-owned winery to learn about the ancient practice of qvevri winemaking, where wine is fermented and aged in large clay vessels buried in the ground. We'll sample a variety of local wines, including the crisp and refreshing Tsolikouri and the robust Otskhanuri Sapere. Our wine tasting will be accompanied by a traditional Georgian supra, or feast, featuring a delicious spread of homemade Imeretian dishes. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the warm hospitality for which Georgia is famous, and to learn about the local culture and traditions from our hosts. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Bagrati Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers stunning views of Kutaisi and the Rioni River.

Today, we indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation with a visit to Tskaltubo, a former Soviet spa town known for its healing mineral waters. While many of the grand sanatoriums from the Soviet era are now abandoned, they remain a fascinating and eerie sight to explore. We'll take a walking tour of the town to see these architectural relics and learn about Tskaltubo's heyday as a premier health resort. In the afternoon, we return to Kutaisi and visit the Kutaisi Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden is home to a diverse collection of plants from around the world, as well as a unique chapel built inside a 400-year-old oak tree. It's the perfect place to relax and reflect on your Georgian adventure. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Kutaisi's excellent restaurants, reminiscing about your favorite moments from the trip.

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 time to revisit one of your favorite spots in the city or explore a neighborhood you haven't yet seen. When it's time to depart, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked transfer to Kutaisi International Airport, filled with unforgettable memories of your journey through the heart of Georgia. As you leave, you'll carry with you the warmth of Georgian hospitality, the taste of its delicious cuisine, and the images of its stunning landscapes. Kutaisi is a city that captures the heart, and we hope this itinerary has helped you to discover its magic. We look forward to welcoming you back to Georgia soon!