Kutaisi: Gelati Monastery, Bagrati and Trips to Canyons and Caves
- Kutaisi is the big city in western Georgia and has its own airport (KUT).
- Wizz Air flies direct from several German airports to Kutaisi.
- Highlights: Gelati Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage) and Bagrati Cathedral with city views.
- Popular trips: Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon (entry approx. 20–40 GEL each, guide value).
- A good stop on the way to Svaneti or the Black Sea.
For many, Kutaisi is the gateway to Georgia: Wizz Air flies here direct from Germany. The city is relaxed, but the real treasures are around it – a UNESCO monastery, a huge stalactite cave and a canyon you explore by boat.
Kutaisi at a glance
| Location | western Georgia, approx. 3.5–4 hrs from Tbilisi (bus) |
| Airport | Kutaisi (KUT), direct flights with Wizz Air |
| Highlights | Gelati, Bagrati, Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon |
| Time needed | 2 nights |
Sights
- Bagrati Cathedral – on a hill with a great view over the city.
- Gelati Monastery – medieval monastery in the hills, UNESCO World Heritage, famous for mosaics and frescoes.
- Prometheus Cave – large stalactite cave with several halls, optional boat ride.
- Martvili Canyon – green gorge with waterfalls and boat rides.
Cave and canyon combine well in one day. Entry approx. 20–40 GEL each according to tour operators – please check on site.
Onwards: Svaneti travel guide · Batumi travel guide · Direct flights to Georgia
Frequently asked questions
Is Kutaisi worth visiting?
Yes, especially as a base: Gelati Monastery, Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon are nearby. If you fly Wizz Air, you start here anyway.
How much are Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon?
Figures in tour listings vary (Prometheus Cave approx. 23–41 GEL, Martvili Canyon approx. 20–33 GEL, boat ride extra). Please check current prices at the ticket desk or official websites.
How many days for Kutaisi?
Two nights are enough for the city, Gelati and a day trip to the cave and canyon.
Sources: UNESCO World Heritage: Gelati Monastery · Eurasia Travel: Kutaisi & Martvili Tour · georgia.travel: From Kutaisi to Tbilisi. All information without guarantee; rules can change at short notice.