Kutaisi is one of Georgia’s most fascinating cities, offering a surprisingly diverse range of tours and experiences. Unlike many tourist hubs, Kutaisi’s charm lies in its mix of ancient sites, stunning nature, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re a history lover, an outdoors enthusiast, or a wine connoisseur, this city has something for you. We especially love the Full day trip to Chiatura for its Soviet-era industrial charm and Kutaisi’s cultural walking tour for a quick, authentic taste of the city’s history and local life. Exploring Kutaisi’s attractions with a guide helps you uncover stories you’d never find on your own—like the fascinating tales behind Bagrati Cathedral or the lush scenery of Martvili Canyon. To help you decide, here’s a detailed look at the best tours available.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of guided day trips to stunning natural sites like Martvili & Okatse Canyons and Prometheus Cave, as well as cultural and historical walks around Kutaisi itself. For those wanting a longer adventure, we recommend the Svaneti Mountain Villages 2-Day Safari, which takes you into Georgia’s highest peaks. Foodies will appreciate the Wine Tour by Winemaker, exploring how Georgia’s famous wine is made using traditional techniques. For a fun mix of outdoor activity and history, the Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour combines scenic rides with cultural landmarks. Each experience offers something unique—so check the details below to find your perfect match.
1. Full day trip to Chiatura from Kutaisi
At number 1, this full-day trip to Chiatura shines for its unusual combination of Soviet-era industrial sites and natural beauty. The tour includes visiting the Katskhi Pillar, a 40-meter-high limestone monolith topped with a small church, which is a favorite for its striking silhouette. You’ll also ride the iconic cable cars above Chiatura—an unforgettable experience that captures the city’s mining past. The tour also visits a cave monastery, providing a glimpse into Georgia’s spiritual side. Rated 4.9/5 from nearly 300 reviews, guests praise the guide Demo’s enthusiasm and local knowledge. Reviewers love how this trip feels both surreal and personal, with some saying it’s “an immersion into a bygone Soviet era.” It’s perfect for history buffs and those interested in unique Georgian landscapes. Expect a full, 7.5-hour day, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to tell later.
Bottom Line: If you want a vivid mix of Soviet history, stunning scenery, and an active day, this trip offers incredible value and memorable sights.
2. From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Cave Guided Tour
Number 2 on our list is a nature lover’s dream, combining canyon hikes, boat rides, and a visit to Prometheus Cave. This 10-hour guided tour is packed with highlights like the turquoise waters of Martvili Canyon, where you can enjoy a scenic boat trip, and the Okatse Canyon, which features a suspended bridge over a 200-meter deep gorge. The highlight for many is exploring the 60-million-year-old Prometheus Cave, with its stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes. Many reviewers, like Teona, mention the cheerful and knowledgeable guides who make the day flow effortlessly. The tour begins at Megobari Tours Meeting Point and includes several stops for photos and short walks. It’s an ideal choice if you want to experience Georgia’s natural beauty in one day, with an emphasis on stunning landscapes and outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers eager to see spectacular canyons, caves, and enjoy a boat cruise—all in a single day.
3. From Kutaisi: Guided Tour of Okatse, Martvili, & Prometheus
Number 3 features a comprehensive day trip for those wanting a well-rounded nature tour. This 10-hour guided excursion includes hiking at Okatse Canyon, a boat ride in Martvili Canyon, and exploring Prometheus Cave. The tour emphasizes walking on high bridges and marveling at the 80-meter-deep cave, which is rated highly for its impressive stalactite formations. Visitors love the guides’ detailed explanations and the scenic stops along the route. The trip is ideal for nature enthusiasts who enjoy moderate physical activity and want a full picture of Georgia’s underground and canyon landscapes. Plus, there’s a satisfying local restaurant stop for a traditional Georgian lunch. Many reviews mention how smoothly the tour is managed and how friendly the guides are.
Bottom Line: A great pick for those wanting a mix of hiking, boat rides, and cave exploration with knowledgeable guides.
4. From Kutaisi: Canyons and caves tour with transfer to Tbilisi
Number 4 is a longer, 12-hour journey that takes you through the famous Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave, then continues on to Tbilisi. This tour is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with a transfer, saving you travel planning. It includes marveling at waterfalls, exploring the legendary cave formations, and discovering the story of Amirani, Georgia’s mythic hero. The tour ends with a comfortable transfer to Tbilisi’s Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel. Guests find it offers great value for the day’s length and appreciate the guided commentary on local legends. Some reviews suggest the trip could have had more time at each site, but overall, it’s a seamless way to see key sights en route to Georgia’s capital.
Bottom Line: If you want an efficient way to visit major natural sights and transfer to Tbilisi without hassle, this tour delivers.
5. Kutaisi Walking Tour
Number 5 offers a compact, 1.5 to 2-hour guided walk through Kutaisi’s top sights. This small-group tour covers Bagrati Cathedral, Colchis Fountain, and the Kutaisi Opera House, ending with a stroll across the chain bridge to the local market. Rated a perfect 5/5 from 53 reviews, travelers love how this tour makes Kutaisi’s history come alive through stories and local insights. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time who want a quick, enriching overview. The guide takes care of logistics and even includes snacks, making it a stress-free experience. This tour is a fantastic way to get introduced to the city’s atmosphere and main landmarks without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a brief, informative introduction to Kutaisi’s culture and history.
6. From Kutaisi: Svaneti Mountain Villages 2-Day 4×4 Safari
Number 6 is Georgia’s ultimate outdoor adventure, taking two days to explore Ushguli and Mestia. Traveling on mountain roads in a 4×4, you’ll see the highest peaks of the Caucasus and visit traditional Svanetian towers. This tour appeals to those craving spectacular mountain scenery, local Svanetian cuisine, and a chance to see glaciers and ancient villages. Rated 4.9/5 from 69 reviews, travelers describe it as “an unforgettable memory” and praise guide Teona for her passion and local knowledge. It’s a physically active trip that requires a bit of stamina but offers an authentic glimpse into Georgia’s mountain culture. The flexible itinerary means you can customize your stops along the way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure-seekers ready for a multi-day mountain trip with stunning views and cultural insights.
7. Kutaisi and Surrounding in 1 day
Number 7 provides a comprehensive one-day itinerary covering Kutaisi’s key attractions. This includes Bagrati Cathedral, Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon, and a local wine tasting. It’s a busy day but packed with variety. Guest reviews highlight the smooth organization and delicious local wines. It’s perfect if you want to see as much as possible without multiple trips or if you have limited time. Expect a full day of sightseeing, walking, and tasting. The tour gives you a taste of Kutaisi’s cultural, natural, and culinary highlights, all with a friendly guide taking care of the details.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking for a full, varied day tour that hits all the main sights.
8. From Kutaisi: Svaneti Mountain Villages 2-Day 4×4 Safari
Repeat of tour 6; see above for details.
9. Kutaisi and Surroundings in 1 day – Prometheus Cave & Martvili Canyon Guided Tours
Number 9 offers a half-day tour focusing on Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon—perfect for those with limited time. Rated 4.7/5, travelers enjoy the impressive stalactites and stalagmites and the easy transportation in business-class minivans. It’s ideal for nature lovers who want a quick taste of Georgia’s underground wonders. The tour’s shorter length means less walking and more focus on the cave and canyon scenery—great for families or travelers on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Quick but rewarding, this tour is a good choice if you want natural wonders without a long day.
10. Kutaisi: Cultural Walking Tour
Number 10 highlights Kutaisi’s local charm and history in a 2-hour guided walk. Rated 5/5, visitors love learning about the Colchis kingdom and the Golden Fleece while exploring the Royal District and Green Bazaar. The guide’s storytelling makes history come alive, and the relaxed pace makes it perfect for anyone wanting to soak in the local atmosphere. You’ll visit the Bagrati Cathedral, Colchis Fountain, and get a glimpse of Kutaisi’s lively streets. This tour suits those who want an authentic, low-key introduction to the city.
Bottom Line: Great for history and culture enthusiasts who want a relaxed, engaging walk.
11. Wine Tour by Winemaker
Number 11 is a delight for wine lovers eager to taste Georgia’s famous raw wine. Visiting a family-owned winery, you’ll learn about traditional Georgian winemaking techniques and sample a variety of aromatic natural wines. Many guests comment on the warm hospitality and the story behind each glass. The tour lasts about 2 hours but leaves a lasting impression with its personal touch and high-quality wines. It’s perfect for those interested in Georgia’s wine culture, especially since the process is so distinct from typical wine-making.
Bottom Line: A must for oenophiles wanting an authentic experience and to taste some of Georgia’s best natural wines.
12. Kutaisi: Chiatura Cable Cars & Katskhi Pillar Guided Tour
Number 12 offers a 7-hour exploration of Chiatura’s cable cars, Katskhi Pillar, and the Mghvimevi rock monastery. This tour combines spectacular aerial views with visits to impressive religious sites carved into cliffs. Rated 4.9/5, travelers praise Sandra for her knowledge and friendliness. Highlights include soaring over dramatic cliffs in the cable cars and visiting the serene rock monastery. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy scenic rides, cultural landmarks, and a manageable day trip from Kutaisi.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure-seekers and history buffs who want a scenic, culturally rich experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Kutaisi Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, time available, and fitness level. For natural wonders like Martvili & Okatse Canyons, Tours #2 and #3 are excellent choices. If you want an authentic cultural experience with a quick overview, the Kutaisi Walking Tour is perfect. For multi-day mountain adventures, the Svaneti Safari offers unmatched scenery and local culture. Food and wine lovers should not miss the Wine Tour by Winemaker, which provides an intimate look at Georgia’s wine traditions.
Booking early is advisable for popular tours, especially in peak season. Check availability and consider your physical readiness—some tours involve walking or hiking, while others are more relaxed. Whether you’re after history, nature, or local flavors, Kutaisi’s tours promise memorable experiences.
Final Thoughts
From exploring dramatic canyons and caves to walking through Kutaisi’s historic streets or sampling traditional wines, this city offers a wide array of activities. If you’re limited on time, a quick guided cultural walk or half-day cave tour will give you a taste of Kutaisi’s highlights. For a more immersive experience, consider the 2-day Svaneti safari or the full-day Chiatura trip. Whatever your interests, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences. Happy exploring!