Hey, I’m Temuka, a proud local and a big fan of Kutaisi! In this short blog, I’ll try to fit in all the things to see in Kutaisi, from must-visit museums to my favorite natural wonders that make this city truly special.
Kutaisi is one of the oldest cities in Georgia and ranks among the five oldest in Europe. Its history stretches back to the 15th-13th centuries BC, with archaeological evidence of the ancient Colchian civilization. The city’s documented history begins in the 3rd century BC, though classical authors considered it the capital of the Kingdom of Colchis as early as the 8th century BC. With such a rich past, visiting its museums is an absolute must for those eager to explore its heritage.
Here are some of the most fascinating cultural stops and places to visit in Kutaisi that showcase its deep history and artistic legacy:
Kutaisi State Historical Museum
Named after Niko Berdzenishvili, Kutaisi State Historical Museum houses over 150,000 artifacts that bring the region’s history to life. The archaeological collection features rare pieces from Bronze Age and Antique periods, including Colchian gold jewelry, bronze buckles decorated with stylized animal figures, and remarkable sculptures such as a 7th-6th century BC bronze statue of a man and a bronze female figure. These discoveries offer a glimpse into the ancient craftsmanship and daily life of Georgia’s past.
Ticket Price: 3 Gel
Kutaisi Fine Arts Gallery
Named after David Kakabadze, this gallery holds around 3,000 works covering painting, graphics, sculpture, and applied arts. The collection features masterpieces by Georgian artists like Niko Pirosmani, Gigo Gabashvili, Elene Akhvlediani, and Lado Gudiashvili. Many of these painters studied and worked in Paris, collaborating with legends like Pablo Picasso and Amedeo Modigliani. While each artist has a unique style, their works capture the soul of Georgia’s artistic heritage.
...and as for Niko Pirosmani, well… his paintings are not something to read about—they must be seen!
(temporarily closed)
Beyond the City: Natural Wonders
Kutaisi is compact, and most museums are within walking distance. But just outside the city, nature unveils its own museums - perfect for those looking to go beyond traditional Kutaisi sightseeing.
Sataplia & Prometheus Caves (Tskaltubo Municipality)
A mystical underground world filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and even real dinosaur footprints!
Sataplia Prices:
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Okatse Canyon (Khoni Municipality)
A breathtaking natural wonder where visitors can walk on a suspended bridge overlooking the dramatic canyon. From the visitor center, you can rent a taxi or take a scenic 2 km walk to reach the entrance of Canyon.
Prices:
Tickets - 20 Gel
Ticket (6 to 18 years) - 5.50 Gel
Ticket (under 6) - Free
Home to a treasure trove of ancient gold artifacts, Vani reveals secrets of an advanced civilization that thrived here in the 1st century BC.
Prices:
Tickets - 30 Gel
Student - 15 Gel
Guide service - 80 Gel
If you've already explored Kutaisi’s top attractions and want to discover a more unexplored side of the city, check out my friend Mariam’s blog about her favorite Shaumiani Street - a neighborhood full of history, culture, and hidden gems!
Whether you’re exploring centuries-old relics, stepping into Georgia’s prehistoric past, or wandering through the unexplored streets, Kutaisi is a city where history breathes in every corner. Enjoy your journey!
*The prices mentioned in this blog are based on my personal visits and information from official websites. If any discrepancies arise, please note that we are not responsible for changes in pricing.
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