Kutaisi
Kutaisi is one of the biggest cities in whole Sakartvelo serving as a cultural and educational center of the region. It was founded around 4 millenniums ago and it is believed to be cradle of ancient civilizations. Nowadays, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sakartvelo. Tree lined streets with distinctive 19th century architecture stretching down to the banks of the Rioni River. Kutaisi is an elegant and beautiful place to stroll around and take in the many sights like magnificent churches of Bagrati and Gelati – both UNESCO world heritages sites. Also, Motsameta Monastery from which the views to nearby canyon is just breath taking.
On top of Gelati and Motsameta Monasteries not so far from Kutaisi you will find more amazing and unique places including Prometheus Cave, Okatse & Martvili Canyons and Setaplia Nature Reserve.
Starting with Prometheus Cave which is huge and unique cave complex located in 21 km from Kutaisi, near Tskaltubo town. It is one of the most popular destinations in the region which has many types of stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls, curtains, underground rivers and lakes.
Okatse Canyon is situated near the village of Gordi around 52 km from Kutaisi. Here you can enjoy a hike in a picturesque nature near fabulous and insanely huge canyon. Witness waterfalls and walk on suspension bridge which was built over the gorge.
Martvili Canyons is located around 50 km from Kutaisi near Martvili town. Once it used to be a bath place for Dadiani family. However, today people come here to visit and enjoy the scenery. Most of the tourists take a boat trip to see the waterfalls and the river with deep green color. Some knows the way around..
Finishing with the closest one – Setaplia Nature Reserve. Situated on a hill only 10 km North-West from Kutaisi where you can find a real, preserved dinosaur footprint and also a beautiful cave complex yet smaller than Prometheus. Inside the reserve there is a museum, forest and a glass walkway overlooking breathtaking natural scenery.
Exploring Kutaisi | Prometheus Cave | Martvili & Okatse Canyon | Sataplia and more!
Helpful tips
Restaurants. El Depo – a simple but cozy place with great khinkali. This is the reason why locals love this place. Local cheese dishes are also superb, you can enjoy your meal with a glass of beer. Here you will find nothing too fancy, yet this place is super affordable and authentic. It is a great and cheap dinner option.
Markets. In Kutaisi as in every other location on the world enjoyed by tourists you will have plenty of shops who can sell you overpriced souvenirs. Prices in grocery shops are the same as through whole Sakartvelo, however, take into consideration that bigger shops usually hold better price.
Tap water in Kutaisi and in whole Sakartvelo is amazing. They have huge underground water reserves, mountain springs and water there is clear and tasty in most of the places. Thus, we recommend trying it and do not bother buying it from shops. Neither of our hosts advised against using water from tap for drinking.
Transportation. To get to Kutaisi you can use plane, train, bus or car. As it is one of the largest cities in Sakartvelo, it has great accessibility and you can use any other transport you feel like using.
In the city it is common to use public transportation such as buses or taxies which are the fastest way to get around the city. We preferred walking as it helps to get to know the city and see not only the touristic places and we recommend you do the same if you have the chance.
Best of luck planning your holidays in Kutaisi!
Is there anything else you would like to visit while in Sakartvelo?
If you have anything in mind, please let us know and let’s discuss it.
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