What to do when visiting the Georgian city of Kutaisi?

Kutaisi is the second-largest city in the Republic of Georgia, filled with history and vibrant culture. Located on the banks of the Rioni River, the city survived millennia of wars and occupations, so it’s no surprise that there are numerous exciting things to do in and around Kutaisi. Here’s an overview of some of them.

Visiting the Parks and Cultural Attractions of Kutaisi

Kutaisi is home to many impressive and beautiful parks and attractions. The Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery are two well-preserved ancient monuments set in hilly parks with centuries-old trees. The nearby Sataplia Nature Reserve is home to many dinosaur tracks, as well as beautiful trails, caves and lakes. The famous Rioni River links to Lake Paliastomi, which has an impressive 400-foot waterfall.

Exploring the Streets of Kutaisi

The Old Town of Kutaisi is a fascinating mix of Eastern European, Turkish, and Persian architectural styles. The cobblestone streets are lined with centuries-old buildings, small churches, and a colorful bazaar. Here visitors can find an impressive selection of souvenirs, local handicrafts, and delicious Georgian cuisine.

Experiencing Georgian Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is considered one of the finest in the world, and Kutaisi offers plenty of places to try it. There are small cafes that serve hearty traditional dishes such as Khachapuri (a cheese-filled pastry) and Khinkali (meat-filled dumplings). More upscale restaurants offer a chance to sample local delicacies like Georgian barbecue, khachapuri or khinkali pizza, and pkhali (vegetable pâtés). And for a unique culinary experience, visitors should visit one of the many Georgian family-owned eateries in the town center.

Taking a Tour in Kutaisi

To get the most out of your experience in Kutaisi, it’s best to take a guided tour. These tours are offered by several companies in the city. Most offer short introductory tours, as well as longer guided excursions that offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s history and culture. Additionally, local guides can help visitors explore the surrounding region and get the most out of their visit to downtown Kutaisi.

Having Fun with Local Activities in Kutaisi

Kutaisi also offers plenty of fun activities for visitors to enjoy. The nearby Imereti region is a great spot for outdoor activities like trekking in the mountains, river rafting or cycling along the paths that line the river valley or canyon. The city also hosts a number of lively festivals throughout the year, so visitors can experience unique Georgian culture firsthand. Additionally, hotels in Kutaisi often offer their own special activities such as cookery classes, wine tasting, or river boat trips.

Overall, Kutaisi is full of life and character and offers a wide range of activities, both modern and historic. It’s definitely an underrated destination in Georgia and an ideal spot to explore if you’re looking for an alternative to the more touristy places in the country. From its parks and cultural attractions to its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this city. To learn more about what to do when visiting Kutaisi and other places in Georgia, visitors can check out Georgiaabout, an online resource offering insights on exploring this beautiful country.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Kutaisi – Georgia’s Hidden Gem

Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Western Georgia, lies the picturesque city of Kutaisi. Packed with history, culture, delicious cuisine, and natural beauty, Kutaisi is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for tourists visiting Georgia. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for a memorable Kutaisi trip.

Attractions

Kutaisi is home to several breathtaking attractions that will leave you mesmerized. Be sure to add the following to your itinerary:

– Gelati Monastery: Originally built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history buffs. The stunning frescoes and mosaics inside the monastery will take your breath away.

– Bagrati Cathedral: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this 11th-century cathedral provides a breathtaking view of Kutaisi from the top. The intricate carvings and delicate stained glass work make it worth the climb.

– Sataplia Nature Reserve: Explore Georgia’s natural beauty at this reserve that boasts fascinating natural landscapes, stunning walking trails, and dinosaur footprints.

– Prometheus Cave: A 1.2 kilometer cave system that offers spectacular light displays, underground streams, waterfalls, and other geological wonders.

Dining Spots

Your trip to Kutaisi is incomplete without sampling its delicious Georgian cuisine at the following dining spots:

– Puris Sakhli: A must-visit for those who love freshly baked bread, this cozy bakery serves some of the best khachapuri and lobiani in the city.

– Chashnagiri: A favorite among locals, this restaurant serves traditional Georgian dishes with a modern twist. From khinkali to shashlik, everything on the menu is mouthwatering.

– Sashlik House: For meat lovers, head to Sashlik House, which offers a variety of flavorful and tender kebabs.

– Cafe Kala: A great place to relax, this garden cafe offers delicious sandwiches, coffee, and desserts.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Kutaisi’s rich history and cultural traditions through these experiences:

– Wine tasting: Georgia is known as the cradle of wine, so be sure to visit a local winery to taste some of Georgia’s finest wines. Vino Underground and Baia’s Wine are highly recommended.

– Sulphur baths: Relax and rejuvenate like the locals by visiting Tskaltubo Spa for a traditional sulphur bath experience.

– Chveni Ezo: A fascinating open-air museum that showcases traditional Georgian architecture and way of life.

Local History

The history of Kutaisi and the surrounding region dates back thousands of years. Learn about the city’s past by visiting:

– Kutaisi State Historical Museum: Offers a glimpse into ancient Georgian history and culture through its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.

– Colchis Fountain: According to Greek mythology, the fountain was created by Phasis, the son of the god of the sun. It’s said that the Golden Fleece was washed here.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience, check out these off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Okatse Canyon: A lesser-known canyon boasting an incredible 50-meter high hanging bridge and stunning waterfall.

– Martvili Canyon: Another hidden gem, this canyon offers a serene boat ride along emerald green waters, surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs.

– Batsara-Babaneuri Protected Area: Located just an hour from Kutaisi, this park offers incredible hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.

Kutaisi is a city that truly has it all. From history to culture, natural beauty to mouthwatering cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Make sure to add this hidden gem to your Georgia itinerary and enjoy a trip of a lifetime.