Kutaisi

Kutaisi is a beautiful and historic city nestled in western Georgia. One of the country’s most ancient cultural centers, it was already thriving thousands of years ago—this is the legendary destination the Argonauts sought on their quest for the Golden Fleece.

Today, Kutaisi stands as the capital of the Imereti region and ranks as the third-largest city in Georgia. It stretches gracefully along the banks of the fast-flowing Rioni River, its energy both timeless and ever-renewing.

And yet, Kutaisi may well be the most underrated city in all of Georgia. While travelers often gravitate toward the cosmopolitan pulse of Tbilisi, the seaside charm of Batumi, the majestic peaks of Svaneti, or the sun-drenched vineyards of Kakheti, Kutaisi remains a quieter treasure—waiting to be truly discovered.

This city, the emerald capital of Imereti, is more than deserving of your attention. Both Kutaisi itself and its surrounding region offer an array of attractions to suit every taste. It’s a city that delights the laid-back wanderer and the thrill-seeking explorer alike, a haven for food lovers and photographers, for those drawn to peaceful strolls as well as those yearning for mountain hikes. Here, you’ll find sacred places steeped in centuries of reverence, winding alleys that hum with the echoes of history, and the warm, ever-genuine hospitality of the Georgian people.

Among the must-see sights within the city, you’ll find the iconic Bagrati Cathedral, with its sky-blue dome rising majestically above the rooftops. Be sure to visit the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO-listed medieval spiritual center, and lose yourself in the charm of the Old Town, where cobblestone streets lead to hidden corners and inviting facades.

Don’t miss the dazzling Colchis Fountain on the main square, a glorious fusion of mythology and modern design, or the pedestrian-friendly White Bridge, perfect for a sunset walk. And of course, you must explore the Green Bazaar, one of the most colorful and lively markets in Georgia, overflowing with flavor, fragrance, and local character.

This kaleidoscope of ancient history, warmhearted hospitality, rich gastronomy, and lush subtropical nature makes Kutaisi a truly unique travel experience.

With a history stretching back nearly 3,000 years, Kutaisi is a city rooted deep in time. It was mentioned by Greek historians and travelers, and in antiquity served as the capital of the legendary Kingdom of Colchis. During the Middle Ages, it was a seat of power in the unified Georgian Kingdom and later, the Imeretian Principality.

Today, in modern Georgia, Kutaisi is once again asserting its place—poised to be the nation’s second capital and a major cultural, entertainment, and tourism hub.

• Bagrati Cathedral, perched high on a hill, is the spiritual symbol and historic soul of Kutaisi. Visit both in daylight and at sunset to admire its ancient stone walls and panoramic views of the city below.

• Take a photo in front of the Colchis Fountain, Georgia’s most ornate. With its shimmering sculptures, dancing jets of water, and enchanting nighttime lights, it leaves a lasting impression.

• Get lost in the Old Town, a labyrinth of charm with cobbled lanes, 19th-century mansions, cozy cafés, guesthouses, and graceful viewpoints. Many travelers compare it to the enchanting old quarters of European cities.

• Explore nearby monasteries—the serene Motsameta or the majestic Gelati. These medieval sanctuaries are not only sacred places but also stunning examples of Georgian architecture and spiritual legacy.

• Be amazed by the natural wonders surrounding the city. Glide through the magical waters of Martvili Canyon, marvel at the vast underground halls of Prometheus Cave, and feel your heart race as you cross the Okatse Canyon’s hanging bridge.

Kutaisi is where myth meets memory, and every corner reveals a story worth discovering.