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This list outlines the things to do in Kutaisi, presenting a remarkable opportunity to step into a city steeped in history and ancient legend. Once the capital of the Republic of Georgia, this timeless city boasts magnificent cathedrals, fascinating caves, and centuries‐old markets. You can explore Bagrati Cathedral, Gelati Monastery, and Prometheus Cave. Savour local cuisine and experience genuine hospitality. Every corner reveals a new story, inviting travellers to enjoy a journey where the past meets the present in unforgettable ways.
10 Things To Do In Kutaisi, Georgia
Things to do in Kutaisi on your next trip to the ancient city of Georgia. Discover ancient monuments, intriguing caves, and local markets.
1. Ascend To Timeless Grandeur At Bagrati Cathedral
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the best things to do in Kutaisi at Bagrati Cathedral. Perched on Ukimerioni Hill, this 11th‑century monument symbolises mediaeval unification under King Bagrat III. Constructed in golden stone, its dome collapsed in 1692, is partially reconstructed with original fresco fragments and modern repairs. The cathedral served as a coronation venue for Georgian monarchs and provided views of the Rioni River valley. Its strategic location on ancient trade routes highlights its importance.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 9 AM – 5PM
Entry Fee: 1 GEL / ₹30
2. Walk Through Academia’s Halls At Gelati Monastery
Photo: DDohler / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the famous things to see in Kutaisi by visiting Gelati Monastery. Founded in 1106 by King David IV, this UNESCO‑listed complex functioned as an academic centre until the 13th century. Its academy taught theology, astronomy, and philosophy, preserving Georgian culture during invasions. Admire the 12th‑century mosaics in the Virgin Mary Church. The scriptorium produced illuminated manuscripts, including the ‘Gelati Four Gospels,’ which safeguarded Georgia’s literary heritage during Mongol and Ottoman rule for posterity truly.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 5 GEL / ₹150
3. Honour Martyrs At Motsameta Monastery’s Sacred Cliffs
Photo: Jaba1977 / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the top things to do in Kutaisi by visiting Motsameta Monastery. This 11th‑century cliffside sanctuary preserves relics of princes David and Constantine, martyrs who defended Christianity. Their bones lie in a gilded reliquary beneath the main altar, with visitors encouraged to circle it three times. Rebuilt in the 19th century after Persian attacks, the monastery’s setting above Tskhaltsitela Gorge offered refuge. Its name means “Place of Martyrs,” honouring an 8th‑century sacrifice.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 1 GEL / ₹30
4. Decode Ancient Symbols At Colchis Fountain
Photo: Gill M L / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the most significant things to do in Kutaisi by visiting the Colchis Fountain. Installed in 2011, this central landmark displays 30 enlarged replicas of Vani artefacts, including a 7th‑century BCE bronze Tamada statue. The golden figures symbolise Colchis’ wealth as portrayed in Argonaut legends, with water flowing over a crown and ceremonial cup. Designed by sculptor Davit Khmaladze, this modern tribute to ancient heritage serves as a popular meeting point along historic boulevards.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Boating At Martvili Canyon’s Emerald Channels
Photo: Karelj / Wikimedia Commons
Among the things to do in Kutaisi, gliding through Martvili Canyon’s emerald channels is a must-try. This 12‑kilometre limestone gorge, formed seventy million years ago, displays rare marine fossils in its cliffs. Soviet engineers flooded the canyon in the 1940s for hydroelectric projects, creating blue‑green pools. Visitors row past mediaeval monasteries along trails that lead to the 9th‑century Martvili Monastery. The “Dadiani Path” honours the noble family that governed Samegrelo during its Golden Age.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 10 GEL / ₹300
6. Unearth Treasures At Kutaisi State Historical Museum
Photo: Herbert Frank / Wikimedia Commons
Unearthing treasures at Kutaisi State Historical Museum is one of the best things to do in Kutaisi. Housed in a 19th‑century neoclassical bank, the museum preserves artefacts including the 16th‑century Paliastomi Icon of the Virgin Mary, crafted with gold leaf. Its archaeology wing exhibits Colchian weaponry and a 4th‑century BCE silver rhyton from Vani. Soviet‑era displays feature Cold War espionage devices from Kutaisi’s industrial past. The building retains pastel frescoes despite surviving earthquakes.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 5 GEL / ₹150
7. Time‑travel Via Soviet Cable Car To Gabashvili Park
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
One of the unique things to do in Kutaisi is time-travel through a Soviet cable car to Gabashvili Park. This 1970s‑era cable car ascends 200 metres, offering views of Kutaisi’s red‑roofed skyline and nearby merchant houses. The cabins, maintained with original parts, travel past historic structures and transport visitors to a retro amusement park. The park features a Ferris wheel, a relic of Soviet engineering, delivering views of the Caucasus foothills and landscape.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: 8 GEL / ₹ 240
8. Cross Centuries On The White Bridge
Photo: Kober / Wikimedia Commons
Cross centuries by crossing the White Bridge, a must-try thing to do in Kutaisi. Spanning the Rioni River since 1850, this pedestrian bridge features cast‑iron arches that replaced ancient stone foundations. Local lore states that newlyweds must cross for lasting unions. The structure, rebuilt in 1922, survived World War II bombings. Evening gatherings here inspired poems by Akaki Tsereteli. The bridge links the old Jewish Quarter with modern districts, truly symbolising the city’s cultural heritage.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
9. Uncover Royal Secrets At Geguti Palace Ruins
Photo: Aleksey Muhranoff / Wikimedia Commons
Uncover royal secrets at Geguti Palace Ruins and complete your list of top things to do in Kutaisi. This 12th‑century complex witnessed Queen Tamar’s coronation in 1184 and features Europe’s earliest known flush toilet system with ceramic pipes drawing water from the Rioni River. The hexagonal throne room influenced Georgian Orthodox church design. Abandoned after Timur’s 14th‑century invasion, its underground tunnels once concealed Imeretian crown jewels during Ottoman raids, offering a link to royal history.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 8 AM – 18
Entry Fee: 10 GEL / ₹ 300
10. Witness Theatrical History At Kutaisi Drama Theatre
Photo: Giorgi Abdaladze / Wikimedia Commons
Explore the Drama Theatre and watch history unfold as you tick off the last of the things to do in Kutaisi. Opened in 1861 as the Caucasus’ first public theatre, this neoclassical marvel staged underground anti-Tsarist plays. Its 1950 renovation maintained original velvet draperies, and a chandelier made from 2,314 Bohemian crystals. The theatre survived Stalin’s purges through coded nationalist allegories and remains a symbol of cultural resistance. Its historical performances continue to inspire contemporary audiences profoundly with Georgian artistic heritage.
Nearest Airport: Kutaisi International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutaisi Railway Station
Timings: 10 AM -7 PM
Entry Fee: 7 GEL / ₹ 210
This list of things to do in Kutaisi continues to amaze visitors with its blend of history and adventure. Whether you wander through time‑worn streets or embark on day trips to nearby canyons and caves, every experience is memorable. Plan your journey with TripXL’s travel packages to ensure a seamless holiday that caters to your interests and budget. Embrace the spirit of Georgia and create memories in Kutaisi.
