Over the Likhi range the landscape softens into Imereti. Kutaisi is the base for Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Prometheus Cave and the canyons of Martvili and Okatse, with khachapuri imeruli to finish the day.
A day around Kutaisi
- Gelati Monastery: medieval frescoes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Motsameta Monastery: a short drive from town.
- Prometheus Cave: an easy visit; Rezo often leaves it as an optional afternoon.
- Martvili and Okatse canyons: the natural highlights, adapted to the group’s pace.
Lunch in Kutaisi is a good time for khachapuri imeruli, the round Imeretian version of the cheese bread.
Where it sits on the map
Kutaisi is about 230 km (3½ hours) from Tbilisi and the natural middle of any east-to-west trip. From here:
- North to the mountains: Svaneti, about 225 km and 4½ hours to Mestia via Zugdidi.
- West to the sea: Batumi and Adjara, about 2½ hours.
Tusheti to Kutaisi is a very long way, so an in-between night in Tbilisi keeps the drive easy. Kutaisi also has an international airport, which some travellers use for arrival or departure.
Part of longer routes
Kutaisi is on the route of the ten-day Mountains, wine and a little sea idea. Start your own with Design my trip.