Kutaisi stands out as a city perfect for exploring on foot or with guided excursions. Its blend of ancient architecture, religious sites, and local flavor make it a favorite for travelers wanting an authentic glimpse of Georgia. We particularly like the full-day wine and monastery tour, which combines history, culture, and a taste of local life—all in one seamless experience. Plus, if you’re interested in unique experiences, the tour to Chiatura with Soviet nostalgia and scenic cable cars is sure to leave a mark. For those short on time but eager to see the highlights, the Kutaisi city tour offers a quick but rundown, all accessible with insider tips.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of tours to match different interests and time frames: from short city walks to full-day cultural explorations. Whether you want to learn about Kutaisi’s historical sites (see the city tour here), sip Georgian wine at a winery, or visit a Soviet-era town, each offers a unique way to experience the city. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. KUTAISI: City Tour, Historical Churches, Plus Tskaltubo
This 7-hour tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive look at Kutaisi’s highlights, plus a taste of nearby Tskaltubo’s natural springs. The tour kicks off with a pickup right in Kutaisi and covers notable sites like the Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery, both UNESCO-protected, along with a cave exploration revealing hidden natural wonders. The itinerary emphasizes both historical and natural highlights, offering a balanced view of the region’s diverse appeal. Guests praise the tour’s ability to “make an unforgettable journey through time and tradition,” and the inclusion of a cave adds a sense of adventure, blending nature with history.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local tradition and landscapes—you’ll not only walk through ancient churches but also experience Georgia’s stunning scenery. The small-group setting ensures personalized insights, and the 7-hour duration suits travelers with limited time but a desire for depth. The tour’s reviews emphasize its engaging guide and well-structured itinerary.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded introduction that mixes cultural monuments and natural sites, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day.
2. Kutaisi, Wine & Dine – group tour around the city
For those who enjoy combining history, local culture, and cuisine, this full-day tour hits the spot. Starting from a convenient pickup point, it visits renowned monasteries like Bagrati, Gelati, and Motsameta—each with its own story. The highlight is a wine tasting and Georgian lunch at Baia’s winery, where you get to see the wine-making process firsthand and sample some of Georgia’s best.
Guests have called this tour “a must visit,” appreciating the warm, knowledgeable guide Tornike, who’s passionate about his country. The breadth of experiences—from exploring monasteries to tasting local wines—delivers great value for an 8-hour day. The tour’s intimate group size creates a friendly vibe, making it easy to ask questions and learn about local traditions.
This tour is perfect for culture enthusiasts and food lovers. The wine tasting in particular provides a genuine taste of Georgia’s culinary culture, while the monastery visits give insight into Georgia’s religious heritage.
Bottom line: If you’re after an immersive day combining history, spirituality, and food, this tour offers richness and authentic flavor, rated very highly by past travelers.
3. Kutaisi city tour
This short 2-hour guided walk is an excellent choice if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Kutaisi’s highlights. Starting at the Colchis Fountain, the tour moves through key sites like the Kutaisi State Opera, Bely Bridge, and the Great Synagogue, covering the city’s architecture and stories in a compact format. The tour also includes a visit to the central market, giving a glimpse into daily local life.
With a small group and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll quickly get oriented and learn about the city’s development and diverse neighborhoods. Past reviews note that the guide offers engaging commentary, making this a fun and informative experience.
Bottom line: This is an ideal option for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic look at Kutaisi’s urban charm and cultural fabric.
4. Day Tour to Georgian Sky Venice, Soviet City Chiatura
This 6 to 7-hour trip takes you into the heart of Georgia’s Soviet past with a visit to Chiatura, famous for its scenic cable cars and old mining town. The tour starts with a flexible pickup in Kutaisi, then heads to the Katskhi Pillar, a striking limestone formation with an ancient monastery perched at the top—accessible only to men, but impressive to see from below. Next, you’ll explore the Chiatura town, where you’ll ride Communist-era cable cars and walk through streets that seem frozen in time.
Guests describe the experience as “a journey into history,” where the Soviet relics and remarkable landscapes combine. The highlight is the cable car ride, which offers panoramic views, and the Katskhi Pillar provides a sense of spiritual tranquility. The tour’s mix of nature, history, and nostalgia makes it compelling for travelers interested in Georgia’s diverse stories.
Bottom line: If you’re fascinated by Soviet history or curious about Georgia’s industrial past, this tour offers an engaging, scenic experience.
5. Kutaisi City Walking Tour + Free Wine Tasting
For a short, casual introduction to Kutaisi, this 3-hour walking tour covers key sights like the Colchis Fountain, Sisters Ishkhnelebi statue, and Mon Plaisir Arch. The walk leads you through the city’s royal, Catholic, and Jewish districts, giving a layered look at Kutaisi’s diverse history. The highlight? A free wine tasting, which provides a relaxing way to soak in local flavors after exploring.
Past participants enjoy the personalized approach of the guide and the opportunity to shop at the local bazaar for fresh produce and souvenirs. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting an easy, social experience without committing to a full-day tour.
Bottom line: If your time is limited but you want to feel the pulse of Kutaisi and taste some wine, this tour combines sightseeing with a friendly atmosphere.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Deciding which Kutaisi tour fits your style depends on your interest level, available time, and budget. If history and nature are your priorities, the KUTAISI: City Tour, Historical Churches, Plus Tskaltubo offers depth and scenery. For a full cultural and culinary immersion, the Wine & Dine tour provides a rich experience of monasteries and Georgian wine. Short on time? The City Walking Tour covers the essentials quickly. If you love history and scenic rides with a touch of the Soviet past, the Chiatura day trip is a memorable choice. For a relaxed sampling of Kutaisi’s urban vibe and local life, the Walking Tour + Wine Tasting is perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as popular tours fill up quickly. Consider your interests—whether you want history, food, scenery, or a mix—and pick the experience that best matches your travel style.
Kutaisi offers a diverse array of tours, from immersive cultural days to quick city walks. Whether you prefer exploring ancient monasteries, tasting authentic Georgian wine, or riding historic cable cars, there’s something here for every traveler. For a memorable trip, try mixing a longer tour like the Wine & Dine with a shorter city walk. No matter which you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these compelling experiences.