Things to Do in Kutaisi & Surroundings (Within 20–30 Minutes)
1. Visit Bagrati Cathedral
Bagrati Cathedral is the symbol of Kutaisi. Built in the 11th century by King Bagrati III, it represents the unification of Georgia. The cathedral stands on a hill overlooking the city and offers beautiful panoramic views of the Rioni River and surrounding mountains.
2. Explore Gelati Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
King David the Builder founded Gelati Monastery in the 12th century. Gelati Monastery was once a major educational and spiritual center. Known as the “Second Jerusalem,” it contains impressive frescoes and the tomb of King David IV.
Located just a short drive from Kutaisi, Gelati is one of the most important historical landmarks in Georgia.
3. Discover Motsameta Monastery
Motsameta Monastery is dramatically positioned on a cliff above a deep river gorge. Smaller and quieter than Gelati, it offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The monastery is connected to the legend of two Georgian princes and is one of the most picturesque spots near Kutaisi.
4. Visit Sataplia Nature Reserve
Sataplia Nature Reserve is famous for preserved dinosaur footprints and a scenic glass viewing platform overlooking the forest. The reserve also includes a small cave with limestone formations.
It is an easy and family-friendly attraction close to Kutaisi.
5. Explore Prometheus Cave
Located about 20 minutes from the city, Prometheus Cave is one of Georgia’s most impressive underground cave systems. Visitors walk through large illuminated halls filled with stalactites and stalagmites. In good weather, an optional underground boat ride is available.
6. Walk Through Tskaltubo’s Soviet Sanatoriums
Tskaltubo was once a famous Soviet spa resort. Thousands of people visited the City each year. Today, many of its grand sanatorium buildings stand abandoned, creating a fascinating and slightly mysterious atmosphere.
The town is only 15 minutes from Kutaisi and can easily be combined with other nearby attractions.
Best Day Trips from Kutaisi (Around 1 Hour Away)
Several spectacular natural and cultural destinations are located about one hour from Kutaisi. These are ideal for full-day excursions.
7. Martvili Canyon
Martvili Canyon is known for its turquoise water and boat rides through a narrow gorge surrounded by lush greenery. Short walking trails offer scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. As a result It became one of the most photogenic natural attractions in western Georgia.
8. Okatse Canyon & Okatse Waterfall
Okatse Canyon features a hanging walkway suspended above a dramatic gorge, offering panoramic views of forests and cliffs. Nearby Okatse Waterfall is accessible via a scenic forest trail and provides another impressive viewpoint.
These locations are often visited together on a canyon day tour from Kutaisi.
9. Visit Chiatura & Its Historic Cable Cars
Chiatura is a former mining town famous for its historic Soviet-era cable cars. The unique industrial landscape feels like stepping back in time. Nearby attractions include Katskhi Pillar and Mgvimevi Monastery.
Chiatura is usually explored as a full-day trip from Kutaisi.
Experience Georgian Wine & Cuisine
Kutaisi is also a great place to discover Georgian food and wine culture. The Imereti region is known for natural wines made using traditional qvevri methods.
Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting at a family winery or join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. These experiences provide insight into Georgian hospitality and culinary traditions.
How Many Days Do You Need in Kutaisi?
• 1 day – Explore Kutaisi city highlights and Prometheus Cave
• 2 days – Add Sataplia, Gelati, and Tskaltubo
• 3 days – Include Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, or Chiatura
Kutaisi is an excellent base for discovering western Georgia at a relaxed pace.
About the Author
This guide was written by the Kutaisi Tours team, a local tour operator based in Kutaisi, Georgia. We regularly organize day trips to Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, Prometheus Cave, Tskaltubo, and Chiatura, providing guests with up-to-date and practical travel information.
