Sights of Kutaisi, the most interesting things in the city. Neighborhoods of Kutaisi

15.02.202327.05.2017

Imereti- a region of western Georgia with its capital in Kutaisi. It is very convenient to fly here from Europe thanks to the international airport, there are direct flights from Russia. Today I’ll tell you what to see in the vicinity of Kutaisi, and what the Imereti region is like.

First of all, I would like to note that Imereti is very picturesque: mountains covered with dense green forests, deep rivers roaring down the gorges, deep canyons, waterfalls and caves - all this can be found here.

The region is inhabited by Imeretians, who speak a special dialect of the Georgian language, which, however, differs from it quite a bit. Many regional centers are towns that arose in Soviet times around metallurgical plants. These include Chiatura, Zestafoni, Tkibuli, and if you are a fan of industrial landscapes, this is the place for you! I haven’t had time to visit these towns yet, so I’ll leave it for next time ;-)

Recently, the Georgian authorities have begun to develop tourism in the country, and many places have undergone restoration and cultivation. Whether this is good or bad is up to you to decide;-) Let's now move on to purely tourist places, which I strongly recommend going to. There is also useful practical information about costs, opening times and how to get there.

What to see in the vicinity of Kutaisi? Sights of Imereti

To inspect everyone interesting places It is most convenient to have your own car or hire a taxi. On public transport can also be reached, but it goes to remote places irregularly or inconveniently. Hitchhiking is good, but there is not a lot of traffic everywhere.

For the latest information, contact tourist office in the center of Kutaisi opposite the park. They will give you free maps and nice girls will tell you everything.

Bagrati Temple in Kutaisi

A landmark cathedral from the early 11th century not only for Imereti, but for all of Georgia, recently restored. It's just huge and towers over the city on a mountain, so it's cool to come here at sunset and look at the surroundings in the light of the setting sun. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Weather in Kutaisi

Kutaisi and its surroundings have a subtropical humid climate. The weather throughout Imereti and in Kutaisi in particular is characterized by strong gusty winds in the spring and autumn. During heavy rains, the water level in the river rises, and city streets are often under water. In winter, the average temperature ranges from 0 to +4 °C, and in summer - +25...+27 °C. The winter absolute maximum is +17 °C, the summer maximum is +44 °C.

Nature

The city of Kutaisi is located in the territory Colchis lowland, much of which was formerly covered with magnificent forests. Today, most of it is used for growing agricultural crops such as citrus fruits, tea, grapes, etc.

A rushing river flows through the city Rioni, which originates in the mountains rising above the plain.

The streets, squares, parks and public gardens of the city are surrounded by greenery. One of the districts of Kutaisi is called Mtsvanekvavila, which literally translates to “green flower garden.”

Caves in Kutaisi

A unique natural formation is the famous karst Sataplia caves- one of the main tourist sites in western Georgia near Kutaisi. There are five caves in Sataplia, where amazing representatives of the flora and fauna can be found. Only one of them is presented to visitors. Well-preserved dinosaur tracks have been found in the caves. The vaults of underground palaces are decorated with huge stalactites and stalagmites of the most bizarre shapes. Underwater rivers seethe here, continually making more and more passages for themselves. And from Mount Sataplia itself, in which these amazing caves are located, a picturesque view of Kutaisi and its surroundings opens.

Attractions in Kutaisi

Temple of Bagrat

As a legacy from its majestic past, modern Kutaisi received a number of architectural monuments which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. One of these monuments is Bagrati Temple, standing on the very ancient place in the city - on Ukemerion Hill. For a long time, the Bagrati Temple was a symbol of a united Georgia, because it was here that King David IV was crowned, who created a unified Georgian kingdom. The temple was partially destroyed during the Turkish attack in the 17th century. and did not recover after that. Since 2001, services have been held here under open air.

Gelati

Of great historical interest is the historical architectural Gelati complex, located 11 km from Kutaisi. The complex includes:

Gelati Monastery of the Virgin Mary,
Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
academy,
three-tier bell tower.

Thanks to the academy, where the best taught and did science scientists of the country, Gelati became the center of scientific life in medieval Georgia. Gelati was also the tomb of the Imereti kings.

Motsameta Monastery

While sightseeing in Kutaisi, you should pay attention to the small picturesque monastery with pointed round turrets, which is called Motsameta. The monastery stands above the river itself, surrounded by coastal greenery. According to legend, it was built on the site of the execution of the Georgian princes Constantine and David Mkheidze, who refused to convert to Islam. The relics of these great martyrs are kept inside the monastery. The building was rebuilt in the 10th and 19th centuries.

A walk through the streets of the old part of the city, where low stone and brick houses are located on steep mountain slopes, as if hanging over each other, will leave a unique impression.

Nutrition

The most vibrant and refined gastronomy of Georgia is Imeretian cuisine. It is based on the active use of all kinds of herbs and vegetables. This is due to the fact that for centuries the inhabitants of Imereti, a rocky and low-yielding region, had to show rich imagination to invent culinary masterpieces. For example, beet and radish tops, nettles, spinach, cabbage and young shoots of bushes are used to prepare delicious “mkhali”. All ingredients are boiled, nut dressing, garlic and spices are added to them. The dish amazes the imagination of the most fastidious gourmets.

The main meat product of Imereti is chicken, cooked with all kinds of sauces: isrim-makvali (from blackberries and unripe grapes), garlic sauce, tkamali (from tkemali fruits), tomato-walnut sauce with herbs, etc.

Particularly popular are Imeretian khachapuri, richly filled with Imeretian (lightly salted) cheese, cooked in special clay pans - ketsah.

The most popular type of bread in Imereti is corn cakes.

Restaurants and cafes in Kutaisi will delight their guests with traditional Imeretian dishes. The menu in most establishments is compiled only in Georgian, so you should use the services of a waiter to make a choice that can best suit your taste.

Accommodation and housing prices

Various hotels, hostels and guest houses. Hotels that provide a wide range of services to their clients are Imeri Park Hotel(cost of stay from $50 per person), Hotel Kolkha(from 70 $), Hotel Rcheuli Palace and etc.

The cost of living in hostels and guest houses, depending on the time of year, varies from $15 to $20 per person per day.

Detailed information about places to stay in Kutaisi can be obtained from the tourist information center, which recently opened in Kutaisi.

Entertainment and relaxation

A number of museums in Kutaisi offer their exhibitions to the attention of residents and guests of the city. Kutaisi has a unique historical Museum, which stores amazing specimens dating back to the Bronze Age (cult and ritual objects, animal figurines, jewelry made of clay, stone, precious metals, etc.). The museum displays a rich collection of firearms and bladed weapons.

Vladimir Mayakovsky spent his childhood in Kutaisi, so today he works in the city memory museum poet.

Fans of theatrical art can visit the renovated Opera and Ballet Theatre, and Kutaisi Drama Theater.

Purchases

The markets of Kutaisi sell the best spices in the country. The collection of Imeretian spices will be an original, useful and unforgettable gift for anyone who loves to cook deliciously. Experts know that real “ tklapi"(sun-dried tkemali plum puree, which is an indispensable ingredient for making kharcho) can only be bought there.

Transport

The main public mode of transport is the bus. Minibuses are also widespread, plying to all sorts of destinations. There are many taxis in the city. During non-working hours, this is the only type of transport that can be used to get, for example, from the airport to the hotel. By the way, in Kutaisi, as in all cities of Georgia, to find housing, you just need to ask a taxi driver. The cost of the trip should be agreed upon in advance.

Kutaisi deserves special attention cable car. It leads to one of the city's recreational parks. From a bird's eye view you can admire the panorama of the city.

Connection

In Georgia today, Internet communications are rapidly developing everywhere. In Kutaisi, there are several Internet cafes in the central part of the city. The cost of the service is relatively low - about $0.5 per hour of being online.

Tourists traveling with a laptop can use the Internet via Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge in almost all hotels, guest houses, and hostels. You can also purchase a wireless Internet card from mobile operators ( Geocell, Magti, Beeline). The cost of the Internet will be about $15 per 1 GB of traffic.

You can call abroad either from a mobile phone or using the services of call centers located in central post offices.

Safety

For a long time, the city of Kutaisi was considered the thieves' capital of Georgia, but after police reform, the situation changed dramatically. During the reform, all employees were completely dismissed from the police and new personnel were recruited, salaries of police officers were significantly increased, strict penalties for bribes were introduced (imprisonment for up to 10 years), police units were equipped with modern technology and equipment.

The city was divided into small squares, in which certain employees are responsible for order, who, if necessary, can get to the crime scene within 5 minutes. As a result of all these transformations, crime in the city (and country) has today been almost completely eliminated.

Business climate

During the implementation of liberal reforms in Georgia, economic activity in the country is increasing. The result of the radical tax reform that was carried out in Georgia was a sharp reduction in the share of the shadow economy and the attraction of significant foreign investment.

Kutaisi's business climate has intensified significantly in recent years. The location of the city not far from the Black Sea and in the picturesque mountains, concealing many ancient unique structures, contributes to the transformation of Kutaisi into one of the main tourist centers Georgia. The reconstruction of the airport had a positive impact on the revival of tourism in the region. Kopitnari" Beauty and uniqueness ancient city is emphasized by a modern street lighting system, which, in addition to aesthetics, has an environmental function, while reducing energy consumption by several times.

There is a free industrial zone in Kutaisi - a specially equipped area for the operation of industrial enterprises.

Real estate prices

As a result of the transfer of parliament from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, the city experienced a significant increase in real estate prices. First of all, this affected real estate on Irakli Abashidze Avenue in the immediate vicinity of the parliament building. Today, the average price for rented housing is about $250, while in many areas of the city there is no hot and often cold water.

After a long period of stagnation, the development of Kutaisi has recently begun; in this regard, tourists should remember that credit card they will be able to pay only in a few places (large restaurants, hotels, shops). The standard of living of the population is still quite low, so it is better to exchange cash with a large denomination for bills of a lower denomination.

When going on a trip to Imereti, you should be prepared for the fact that many houses and even hostels may not have both hot water and heating.

You should also be careful about prohibitions in public places, for example, the ban on smoking - the fine will be about $6.

You should refrain from conversations touching on national topics and jokes about Georgians. A respectful attitude towards the hosts of the city will provide guests with the most cordial welcome.

Kutaisi is the largest locality western Georgia. A turbulent history has left numerous traces on his appearance and turned him into one of the most original and beautiful Georgian cities. There are many architectural monuments, interesting museums, ancient temples and monasteries.

Kutaisi is located 220 km away. Nearby, 22 km, has its own airport. Flights here are operated, for example, by the popular low-cost airline - the Hungarian Wizair and other airlines.

The city is located on the banks of the picturesque mountain river Rioni. The first settlements on this site were founded before our era. According to legend, Kutaisi was the capital of the legendary Colchis, where the Argonauts went in search of the Golden Fleece.

The city was part of the Abkhazian kingdom for several centuries, then was captured by the Turks. Russian troops liberated Kutaisi in 1770 and it became part of the Russian Empire. After the collapse of the USSR it became one of the largest and most important Georgian cities. Since 2012, it has been considered the parliamentary capital of Georgia.

The climate of Kutaisi is humid subtropical. January is considered the coldest month, August the hottest. The average annual temperature is 14-15 degrees. Population is about 200 thousand people. To travel around Kutaisi you can use minibuses and a city bus. Tbilisi and other cities in the country are also easily accessible by bus or car.

Attractions within the city

In the city and its surroundings there are many different attractions that attract travelers here. We have collected in this article the most important places with their descriptions and photos, so that when visiting Kutaisi there will be no question of what you must see.

One of the main attractions of Kutaisi. The cathedral, built in the 11th century, was for a long time the main temple of the Georgian kingdom. Played a huge role in cultural life countries.

The temple was badly damaged during the war with the Turks and was in a dilapidated state for a long time. In 2012, it was reopened after reconstruction and some restructuring, the project of which was not approved by UNESCO. After this, the site was removed from the World Heritage List. The cathedral was built on Mount Ukimeroni, from the foot of which a stone staircase leads to the top.

Located on David the Builder Square, decorated with enlarged copies historical finds from gold discovered during excavations near the city. There are figures of deer, horses, aurochs, and the fountain is crowned with statues of the horses of King Eetus. The fountain has several levels; colorful lighting turns on in the evening.

Kutaisi Botanical Garden is located near the city center. This is a great place for a walk on a hot day.

Here you can find flora typical of tropical and subtropical climates. The most interesting object is a chapel built inside the trunk of a huge centuries-old oak tree. Up to three people can go inside at a time.

A visit to the botanical garden costs 1 GEL, opening hours are from 10-22 hours.

Parliament

The building of the Georgian Parliament was erected in 2012. This example modern architecture Art Nouveau style. According to the plan of the Spanish architect Domingo Cabo, a structure was built that resembled half of a large drop of water.

The building has the shape of a huge irregular glass hemisphere with a white transverse belt made of modern structural materials. The building looks very original and unusual. Located on the city outskirts near the bus station. To get inside, you need to register through the website and sign up for one of the tours that take place around the Parliament building.

Initially, before Soviet power, this building was catholic church. After the revolution, the cathedral was closed. In 1989, the building was transferred to the Orthodox Church. The interior decoration still retains the features inherent in the Roman church– a statue of the Virgin Mary, angels, a ceiling painted in Catholic style.

Considered the most beautiful bridge in Kutaisi. Built in 1870 from metal elements painted white. It is a 3-bay structure made of forged metal, which is installed on stone supports.

The bridge is also known by statue of a boy holding two hats. It personifies the hero of Shengelaya’s painting “An Extraordinary Exhibition.” The bridge offers picturesque views of the river itself and its surrounding white cliffs.

Okros Chardakhi is the former residence of the kings of Imereti. This attraction is located on the banks of the Rioni. The first mention of this place dates back to the 15th century. Then, according to the recollections of travelers, on its territory there was a large and small house, as well as a complex of other buildings and a church.

The residence was protected on one side by the river, on the other side it was surrounded by stone walls. Gradually, after several attacks, the complex received significant damage, eventually Only the Small House has survived. Later it was turned into an ordinary residential building with apartments. Now there is a museum exhibition here.

The cable car in Kutaisi is a separate city attraction. The funicular connects two parts of the city located on different banks of the river. The lower station is located near the former residence of the Imeretian kings Okros Chardakhi, the upper one is in the Park of Culture. The route passes over the Rioni, offering memorable views of the river and surrounding area.

A one-way ride on the cable car costs 0.5 GEL.

The historical museum of the city of Kutaisi is one of the largest and most famous in Georgia. The total number of exhibits exceeds 150 thousand. The basis for its creation was ethnographic collections and collections made at the beginning of the 20th century.

Many objects date back to the Early Paleolithic. They were discovered during archaeological expeditions near Kutaisi and in other regions of Georgia, southern Russia and Turkey.

The entrance ticket costs 3 GEL, opening hours are from 10-18, closed on Sundays.

Theater named after Lado Meskhishvili is located next to the Colchis Fountain. This is one of the oldest and most honored theaters in the country. The round building is decorated with a colonnade at the entrance, large arched windows, bas-reliefs and stucco decorations.

The lower temple of St. George is interesting because it previously belonged to the Armenian Church. The construction dates back to the 18th century. Located next to the Jewish Quarter, near the Rioni River.

Market

The Green Market is a great place to get acquainted with local traditions and flavor. Traditional Georgian products for sale– local cheeses, nuts, churchkhela and other delicacies.

This is part of the urban area where the Jewish community previously lived. Three synagogues and many ancient houses have been preserved here. The synagogues were built in the 19th century. The quarter is located on the left bank of the Rioni, opposite Bagrata Hill. It is bounded by Gelani Street and the river bank.

Mtsvane Kvavila – which means “Green Flower”, a complex that consists of a defensive tower, three churches, a pantheon where they are buried famous people cities . The tower has two floors and is quadrangular in cross-section. One of the churches was almost completely destroyed, leaving only ruins. On the territory of the complex there is an ancient chapel, around which are the tombs of the pantheon.

Attractions in the surrounding area

Gelati Monastery is the most famous attraction located in the Kutaisi region. The date of its foundation is considered to be the 12th century, and its creator is the legendary King David the Builder. The Gelati monastery was built on a hill that rises above the valley of Tskal-Tsitela, a stormy mountain river. The complex includes the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, and the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. This is where the tomb of King David is located.

The ticket costs 3 lari, you can get there from the city by minibus.

The Sataplia Nature Reserve is located 8 km from the city. The easiest way to get there is by minibus No. 45. The reserve is located on Mount Sataplia. The territory is covered with forests, there is practically no grass, since the dense crown of trees allows very little light to pass through.

An interesting place is the unique karst caves of Sataplia. You can also see fossilized dinosaur footprints. The limestone slab where they were discovered is now protected and kept in a special room. A park with sculptures depicting these animals was built nearby.

A ticket to visit the park costs 6 GEL.

Motsameta Monastery is located near the Gelati Monastery, on the other side of the canyon. It is a little closer to Kutaisi. It's easy to get there on foot across the dam on the river. On the territory of the monastery there is the Cathedral of the Martyrs David and Constantine, the remains of a stone wall, and a bell tower. The relics of saints are kept in the temple.

The church is dedicated to two brothers - princes Constantine and David, killed by Arabs after refusing to accept someone else's faith. Near the monastery there is a picturesque canyon with excellent views of the surrounding area.

Prometheus Cave, formerly known as Kumistavi, is located in the vicinity of Tskhaltubo. Its size is huge. Although only a small part is accessible to visit, the tour lasts almost an hour.

According to legend, it was here that the Olympian gods chained Prometheus. There are many stalactites and stalagmites here, equipped with colorful lighting. The cave has an underground river along which you can take a boat ride. You cannot move here alone, only as part of a group.

A ticket to the cave itself costs 7 GEL. A boat ride costs 7 GEL separately.

To get to the place on your own, you first need to get to Tskhaltubo. This can be done on the 30th minibus. It is taken to the Tskhaltubo market, not far from it there is a bus station from where minibuses go to the cave. You can get there by taxi or walk.

The ruins of Geguti Palace are approximately 7 km from the city center. Former royal palace preserved rather poorly. The approximate date of construction is the 11th century. For some time the kings of Georgia lived here. There is a possibility that Shota Rustaveli was here.

The size of the remains of the structure is impressive. Fragments of walls, part of a stone staircase, and remains of a stone vault have been preserved. Unfortunately, no restoration work has yet been carried out and the place is in disrepair. You can get there by taxi or minibus going to Geguti.

Watch the video about this wonderful city:

The cave has quite impressive dimensions, which helped to apply the ancient legend to modern circumstances. Thus, it received the name Prometheus Cave. This is what appears in all guidebooks.

Today you can see the cave near Kutaisi on video. It’s better to visit there to admire not only its huge arches, but also its superbly designed dynamic lighting. Researchers say that it stretches for 11 km, but tourists will be guided along the route for only 1.5 km. Stalagmites and stalactites illuminated by multi-colored lamps, underground halls over 21 meters high and mysterious cave rivers will become a real adventure for any tourist.

Motsameta Monastery

If you dream of bringing photos from Kutaisi that will impress all your friends, you should definitely visit the Motsameta Monastery, which is located between the green Imeretian hills. The general appearance of the monastery inspires delight among tourists - its turrets are so comfortably hidden in the greenery. It is also known as the Church of Saints David and Constantine.

There is a legend that when the Arabs came to the lands of Georgia, they burned the Christian church that once stood here, and began to impose it on the local population. Then the princes came to the defense of the shrines - brothers Constantine and David. They gathered a militia and set off on a campaign against the Arab troops. However, the battle was lost, and the Arabs themselves offered the princes to convert to Islam voluntarily. The brothers refused and were drowned in Rioni.

Local residents took the bodies of the princes who died for their faith from the river and carried them to the mountains. By sunset, the procession found itself in the territory of the destroyed Motsameta church. The princes were buried here, and later, in the 12th century, a new church, which was named after David and Constantine. Later a monastery was built here.

Tourists who come on vacation to Kutaisi can see in the temple a shrine with the relics of Christian martyred princes. There is an opinion that if you crawl under this crayfish three times, your wish will definitely come true.

For this purpose, a small passage was even made under the tomb. You can also go up to the observation deck of the monastery, from which you will have a stunning view of the canyon. And on October 15, Motsametoba is held here annually in honor of the princes.

Pillar of Katskhi

Another incredible attraction in the vicinity of Kutaisi is the Katskhi Pillar, which is otherwise called the Church in the Sky or the Fortress of Solitude. This is a large monolith, the height of which is 40 meters. On the flat top in the pre-Christian era, sacrifices were made to the god of fertility, and then a church was built - historians cannot determine the exact date, calling the interval in the 6th-8th centuries.

When the Turks invaded Imereti, they managed to destroy this church on the pillar of Katskhi, after which religious pilgrimages here ceased. And only in 1944 climbers managed to climb the monolith, followed by historians and, finally, pilgrims.

In the 2000s, the church was rebuilt on top of the pillar, and the builders used building stone left over from ancient temple. Today this church bears the name of St. Maximus the Confessor. Some time ago, the remains of a man in monastic robes were discovered at the foot of the pillar.

Tourists can climb the Katskhi pillar along a small iron ladder. At the top you can see not only the temple itself, but also the wine cellar, crypt and fortress wall. Once on this cliff, many feel that they are becoming closer to God.

Tourist places of the ancient city

Of course, while relaxing in Kutaisi, you can’t help but take a walk along its streets. Of particular interest to tourists is Old city, or rather, its historical part. Until now, visitors strive to get to the banks of the Rioni, where houses hang directly above the water.

It is also worth seeing the Colchis fountain, a local Botanical Garden, stroll along Queen Tamara Street and visit the Jewish Quarter. Kutaisi offers its guests an unforgettable vacation, filled with the flavor of Imereti, indescribable and most vivid impressions.

Kutaisi is the main resort city in Western Georgia. It is the capital of the Imereti region, located on both banks of the Rioni River. Distance from Kutaisi to major cities:

Zugdidi - 100 km;
Tbilisi - 220 km;
Batumi - 150 km;
Poti - 100 km.

The history of Kutaisi is quite rich. In ancient times, the city was the capital of the Colchis kingdom, that is, the Colchians - the ancient Georgians. Then, from VIII to XIII, the city was the capital of the Abkhazian kingdom. In the 60s of the 17th century, Kutaisi was captured by the Turks, but in 1770 it was liberated by Russian troops.

Since 1810, the city was part of the Russian Empire. Since 1811 it became the center of the Imereti region, and since 1846 - the center of the Kutaisi Empire. During Soviet times, Kutaisi was the second most important Georgian city. There were many factories and important technical centers here.

In 1991 Georgia became independent state, and Kutaisi is cozy resort town. Now it is a calm place where tourists like to come for a secluded holiday.

All the sights of Kutaisi can hardly be seen in one or two. Within the city there are several objects that are definitely worth the attention of tourists.

White Bridge

Address: Old Town center (near the lower cable car station)

The White Bridge is one of the completely pedestrian bridges crossing the Rioni River. It was built in 1852, but a few years later it collapsed. Then in 1872, the bridge acquired its current appearance. It was when the details of the structure were repainted white that the bridge also began to be called White.

On the territory of the bridge there is a sculpture of a boy with two hats, who is a character in the film “An Extraordinary Story”. According to the plot, one of the characters in the film says that Picasso painted such boys and they are the ideal of art. The boy then rips the hats off the two gentlemen and jumps with them straight into Rioni. It is this frame that is captured in the sculpture.

Georgians love this bridge very much and consider it the embodiment of romance. It is in this place in different times loved to make dates. There is a belief that if you propose marriage on the White Bridge, the lovers will never part.

There are two restaurants on the west side, more expensive and cheaper. There you can order coffee (in an expensive coffee shop the average bill is 5 GEL) and admire the white rocks and the rapid flow of the Rioni River.

Cable car

Address: The cable car station is located at the White Bridge
Working hours: every day from 11:00 to 20:00
Price: 2 GEL for one way fare

The cable car is a must see in Kutaisi. It’s worth a ride, even if you’re just in town for a couple of hours.

From its height, in good weather, you can see almost the entire Kutaisi, enjoy its panorama and take great photos. In addition, the cable car is an excellent transport to get to the central park (the upper station is located there).

During the trip, my favorite moment was when we passed over the Rioni River.

The Kutaisi cable car runs not small 2-seater carriages, but medium-sized funiculars. They are rarely crowded, so chances are that you will be able to enjoy the trip only in the company of your family.

Central Park

The park itself is pretty standard, but... a good place for a walk. There is a Ferris wheel and several attractions.

There is almost always music playing in the park, and coffee is brewed in coffee shops. This is a cozy place without crowds of people, where you can relax peacefully.

Kutaisi Market

It’s not for nothing that they say: if you want to immerse yourself in the local flavor, go to the market. Kutaisi Bazaar is no exception. You can always buy profitably at the market. They sell here:

vegetables and fruits;
coffee;
pita breads;
traditional sweets;
spices;
meat.

If you are fully stocked at the market, do not hesitate to bargain! This is normal among Georgians and they often make discounts.

There are many beautiful bas-reliefs on the market building, which are an example of the careful work of Georgian sculptors.

Georgian Kutaisi Theater named after Lado Meskhishvili, Colchis Fountain

Address: located at the very beginning of Gelati Street

One of most beautiful places in Kutaisi. Thanks to the bas-reliefs on the facade, arched windows and high columns, the theater looks impressive. By the way, productions are still going on there.

Near drama theater(David Agmashenebeli Square) there is the famous Colchis fountain, it was built in 2011. It is a cascading structure illustrating the myths about ancient Colchis.

The fountain's facing is made of polished Kharagul stone, the pedestals are decorated with bright blue mosaics. Along the perimeter it is decorated with bronze figures, each of which has its own meaning. At the top of the fountain there are 2 horses, which, according to legend, belonged to King Aeetes, who reigned over Colchis and kept the Golden Fleece.

Jewish Quarter

The quarter is located opposite the Bagrati Temple on the left bank of the Rioni. A special Jewish flavor reigns here and several synagogues have been built.

There are no special attractions in the Jewish Quarter. You can explore it completely in a maximum of half an hour; just walk along Boris Gaponov Street.

Botanical Garden

Address: St. Leselidze
Schedule: around the clock
Price: for free

The Botanical Garden is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. Here you can take a break from the noise of the city (although Kutaisi can hardly be called noisy) and enjoy nature. But don’t forget to take water and food with you, there are no shops near the garden.

The botanical garden occupies a huge territory and has existed for more than 20 years. Which locations in the garden are worth visiting:

heart sculpture;

a chapel in the trunk of a 400-year-old oak tree (an analogue of such a chapel exists only in France);

amphitheater.

Temple of Bagrat

How to get there:

along the stairs from the Rioni River (the stairs are quite steep, so this is not an option for walking with children)
first take the cable car to the park, then go through it and go down to the temple along Kazbegi Street

Bagrati Temple, also known as Bagrati, Bagrati Cathedral or the Temple of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is one of the largest temples throughout Georgia. It was built back in 1003, then was destroyed and remained so for 300 years. In 2012, on the initiative of Saakashvili, the temple was restored.

On the territory of the cathedral there is an observation deck from where you can see the whole of Kutaisi and Rioni and the Rachinsky ridge.

The Bagrati Temple is the only temple in Georgia built on a mountain. It's very big, which is impressive. There is no abundance of icons or frescoes, which makes it seem like the epitome of the Middle Ages.

Neighborhood

There are no fewer interesting places in the vicinity of Kutaisi than in the city itself.

A little advice for travelers: in order not to be tied to public transport and to move more conveniently from one place to another, you can rent a car during your vacation.

Prometheus Cave (Kumistavi)

Schedule: November-April: 10:00-17:00, May-August: 10:00-18:00, September-October: 10:00-17:30. Open on all days except Monday.
Price: 20 GEL per adult ticket (children under 5 years old are not allowed into the cave).
How to get there:

By minibus: first from Kutaisi to Tskhaltubo (minibuses run every hour, fare costs 1 GEL), then from Tskhaltubo to the cave (run 4 times a day: at 07.00, 11.00, 14.00 and 15.30, fare costs 1.5 GEL). The journey by public transport takes at least an hour.
By taxi. If you come from Kutaisi, a taxi will cost about 25 GEL, if from Tskhaltubo - 5 GEL.
By your car. GPS coordinates 42.376997, 42.600796.

This location will appeal to tourists who have never been to caves before or simply love such places. The Prometheus Cave itself is the largest karst cave throughout the territory of Georgia. There is a backlight inside, so the spectacle is very interesting.

In the cave you can see underground lakes and touch stalactites and stalagmites. Scientists claim that Prometheus Cave has healing air, so visiting there will be useful for people with lung diseases.

During high season there are a lot of tourists here.

Sataplia Nature Reserve

Schedule: May-August: from 10 to 18, September-October: from 10 to 17:30, November-April: from 10 to 17. Closed on Monday.
Price: children under 6 years old free, children over 6 years old - up to 4 GEL, adults - 7 GEL.
How to get there: from central market in Kutaisi by minibus No. 45.

The Sataplia Nature Reserve was founded 75 years ago and has recently been renovated. What's here:

Karst caves. They are not as impressive as Prometheus Cave. Only one cave is open for visiting (although there are actually 5 of them), but it is not crowded a large number of of people.
Dinosaur pavilion. There you can see preserved dinosaur tracks. Dinosaur sculptures are displayed outdoors.

Glass observation deck-balcony. This place offers a stunning view of the Georgian mountains.

Crater extinct volcano and many hiking trails.

It will take no more than a couple of hours to get around the reserve.

Tskhaltubo Park

You can get to this place on the way back from Prometheus Cave. Previously, members of the Soviet elite often went here on vacation.

Now there is a lot of greenery, silence and tranquility in Tskaltubo. By the way, there are famous low-radon springs here, the water from which is considered healing.

Okatse Canyon

Schedule: in winter until 17, in other seasons from 10 to 18. Closed on Monday.
Price: adult ticket - 15 GEL (you may have to pay 0.5 GEL for parking).

This location will appeal to fans of extreme walking. There is an 800-meter-long trail along the mountain, suspended at the height of a 70-story building. And below is an abyss. There are several viewing platforms along the trail.

Kinchkha Waterfall

Price: 1 GEL for parking
How to get there: by taxi from Otsake Canyon (if you bargain, you can get away for less than 25 GEL) or on foot.

You can look at the waterfall if you go to Okatse Canyon. Here you can not only admire the views, but also swim in the cool water.

In spring and autumn, 3 waterfalls are visible, while in summer only one is clearly visible.

Borjomi

How to get there: by public transport from the Kutaisi bus station (Chavchavadze Avenue) by minibus to Akhaltsikhe (with a stop in Borjomi).
Ticket price: approximately 10 lari.

If you have the desire and opportunity to travel a little, then be sure to set aside time to visit the city of Borjomi. The road to Borjomi, if you leave from Kutaisi, takes about two hours.

Borjomi is a low-mountain town, surrounded on all sides by mountains and forests. Despite the fact that the village itself is quite small, the list of Borjomi attractions includes over 200 interesting objects. This place is also the birthplace of world-famous medicinal mineral water.

Borjomi does not have a highly developed infrastructure, but it has clean air, a mild (compared to many other locations) climate, pure nature and many sanatoriums. If you want to arrange a quiet, cozy and healthy holiday for yourself, this is definitely the place for you.

What interesting things can you see in Borjomi? If you have a couple of days at your disposal, you should definitely visit:

Central Park. Admission before 9 or after 19 is free; at other times, visitors over 8 years old will have to pay 8 GEL ( admission ticket valid all day). In the central park there are mineral springs, from which you can drink for free. You can also get a 3 liter bottle of water (costs 3 GEL), but keep in mind that beneficial features water is stored only for 1 day.

Romanov Palace. A huge villa that was built for Prince Nikolai Mikhailovich. Now the palace is a working museum.

Fortresses of Gogia and Petre.

Cable car. The price for one way travel is 4 GEL. By the way, if you take the cable car up and then walk down, you can get to the central park for free.

Green Monastery.

House of Firuz. This is a very beautiful building that the Persian consul built for his beloved.

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.

Street 9 April. There is a mini-market here where you can buy delicious souvenirs (including pine cone jam).

If a tourist in Borjomi has only a couple of hours of free time, then the most important thing is the cable car, the central park and just the streets of Borjomi (if you are really short on time, you can drive around the city by car).

Motsameta

Schedule: from 10:00 to 18:00
How to get there:

by direct bus from Kutaisi to Motsameta;
on foot: from Gelati Street (from the fountain) go down and across the Rioni Dam for 2.5 km.

The Monastery of Saints Constantine and David is one of the sacred places in Georgia. The monastery itself is quite small and cozy.

In the 8th century, there was a small church on the territory of the monastery, which was burned out by the Arabs in 735. Constantine and David, who ruled the entire region of the Likhsky ridge, opposed the enemy, but were defeated and captured. The enemies tortured them for 9 days and then drowned them in the Rioni River.
The people who found the bodies of Constantine and David heard the voice of God, who ordered them to carry the bodies of the brothers until the dawn overtook them. As a result, the procession came to the site of the burned church. David and Constantine were buried there. Later, in the same place, Baghart the Third erected a temple, which he named Motsameta (translated from Georgian as “martyrs”).

In 1844, the temple was restored and a dome was installed there. And in 1923, the Soviet authorities closed the temple, and the bodies of the martyrs were pulled out of their graves, tied to horses and dragged along the roads all the way to Kutaisi, after which they were thrown into the river. The locals managed to pick up some of the remains of the relics and preserved them. Now the relics are kept in the main temple on a hill next to the entrance (on the right).

Note! You cannot enter the monastery territory in skirts or shorts. At the entrance, visitors are given a black cloth to wrap themselves in before entering Motsameta.

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What to see in the vicinity of Kutaisi? Sights of Imereti

Weather in Kutaisi

Nature

Caves in Kutaisi

Attractions in Kutaisi

Temple of Bagrat

Gelati

Motsameta Monastery

Nutrition

Accommodation and housing prices

Entertainment and relaxation

Purchases

Transport

Connection

Safety

Business climate

Real estate prices

Attractions within the city

Parliament

Market

Attractions in the surrounding area

Motsameta Monastery

Pillar of Katskhi

Tourist places of the ancient city

White Bridge

Cable car

Central Park

Kutaisi Market

Georgian Kutaisi Theater named after Lado Meskhishvili, Colchis Fountain

Jewish Quarter

Botanical Garden

Temple of Bagrat

Neighborhood

Prometheus Cave (Kumistavi)

Sataplia Nature Reserve

Tskhaltubo Park

Okatse Canyon

Kinchkha Waterfall

Borjomi

Motsameta

To whom and what does “Tourist assistance” owe

Cruise company "Vodohod TF Vodokhod"

Darina Gromova - the main passenger of the tragic flight