Kutaisi, Batumi, & Tbilisi 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Kutaisi

Arrive at Kutaisi International Airport (KUT).

Transfer to your pre-booked budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel in Kutaisi city center. Prioritize rest after your overnight journey.

Rest & Refresh

Take ample time to rest and recover from your early morning arrival.

Sleep in and relax at your accommodation.

Ensure your accommodation allows for early check-in or luggage storage.

Kutaisi City Stroll

Begin your exploration with a leisurely walk through Kutaisi city center.

Visit the iconic Colchis Fountain and explore the surrounding Rioni River embankment. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of your hometown.

This is a great free activity to get oriented. Look out for the White Bridge for great views.

Affordable Georgian Dinner

Enjoy your first authentic and budget-friendly Georgian dinner.

Seek out a local 'Sakhafle' (Khinkali house) or a small restaurant for delicious Khinkali and Lobiani.

Ask locals for their favorite budget-friendly spots. Khinkali (dumplings) are a must-try and very filling. Lobiani (bean-filled bread) is another affordable and delicious option. Expect shared platters for the group.

Bagrati Cathedral Visit

Walk to Bagrati Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views of Kutaisi.

It's an essential historical landmark in your hometown.

Admission is free. The walk up to the cathedral can be a bit steep but is rewarding. Wear comfortable shoes.

Explore Kutaisi Market

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Kutaisi Market, a true local experience.

Sample fresh produce, local cheeses, spices, and 'churchkhela' (Georgian candy).

Great for cheap snacks and observing local life. Don't be afraid to haggle gently, though prices are generally very fair. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g815359-d10338717-Reviews-Kutaisi_Market-Kutaisi_Imereti_Region.html?m=66827

Market Lunch

Grab a quick and affordable lunch around the market area.

Many small eateries offer traditional Georgian dishes at student-friendly prices.

Travel to Batumi

Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Kutaisi to Batumi.

This is the most common and cheapest way to travel between Georgian cities.

Check into Batumi Accommodation

Arrive in Batumi, find your pre-booked budget-friendly accommodation near the city center or boulevard, and check in.

Drop off luggage and freshen up.

Batumi Boulevard Stroll

Enjoy an evening stroll along the famous Batumi Boulevard, stretching along the Black Sea coast.

Take in the fresh sea air and the unique modern sculptures and architecture.

The boulevard is particularly lively in the evenings. It's a great free activity for people-watching.

Adjarian Cuisine Dinner

Savor traditional Adjarian cuisine for dinner.

Don't miss trying Adjarian Khachapuri (Acharuli Khachapuri) – a boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, butter, and an egg.

Adjarian Khachapuri is very filling and can often be shared among a few people. Look for small local eateries for the best value and authentic taste.

Ali & Nino Statue

Visit the mesmerizing moving statue of Ali and Nino, a symbol of eternal love and understanding between different cultures, located on Batumi Boulevard.

Best viewed as they move and pass through each other. Free attraction, great for photos.

Alphabet Tower & Views

Walk to the Alphabet Tower to admire its unique design featuring the Georgian alphabet.

You can choose to pay for an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views (optional, may not be 'unistudent budget').

Viewing the tower from outside is free. Consider if the elevator fee fits your budget.

Explore Batumi Old Town

Wander through the charming streets of Batumi's Old Town, characterized by its 19th-century architecture, colorful buildings, and charming squares like Piazza Square.

Piazza Square is a beautiful spot, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Many cafes offer outdoor seating.

Budget Lunch in Old Town

Find an affordable spot in or near the Old Town for lunch.

Look for local bakeries for fresh pastries (like 'ghvezeli') or small cafes for soup and salad.

Batumi Beach Relaxation

Enjoy some relaxing time on Batumi Beach.

Even in late February, it's pleasant for a brisk walk, collecting stones, or just enjoying the Black Sea views.

A free way to enjoy the coastal environment. Dress warmly as it can be windy in February.

Modern Art Sculptures Walk

Continue your walk along the boulevard to discover some of Batumi's quirky and modern sculptures, which are freely accessible and add character to the city.

Look for the Fountain of Neptune, the Chacha Tower (if you're lucky to catch a free tasting!), and other unique art installations.

Farewell Batumi Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Batumi.

Consider trying 'sinori' or other Adjarian specialties not yet sampled, or revisit a favorite for affordability.

Travel to Tbilisi

Depart from Batumi (or Kutaisi, depending on previous night's stay) by marshrutka (minibus) to Tbilisi. This is the most economical way to travel and offers a glimpse into local life. Enjoy the scenic journey.

Check-in & Lunch

Check into your budget-friendly accommodation near Old Town.

Afterwards, grab a quick, authentic and cheap lunch at a local 'puris sakhlis' (bread house) for some fresh shoti bread with cheese, or a casual 'khinkali' (dumpling) spot.

Many budget guesthouses and hostels are available in the Sololaki or Old Town areas. Look for places offering multi-bed rooms to keep costs down. A good khinkali can be found almost anywhere in Old Town.

Explore Old Town

Immerse yourselves in the charming, cobbled streets of Tbilisi's Old Town.

Discover hidden courtyards, historic churches, and vibrant architecture. This area is best explored on foot.

Wear comfortable shoes. Many free walking tours start from Freedom Square if you want a guided experience. This is a TripAdvisor attraction: Old Town Tbilisi, Rating: 4.6/5.

Narikala Fortress & Views

Take the scenic cable car up to Narikala Fortress for panoramic views of Tbilisi.

Explore the fortress ruins and enjoy the sunset over the city. Walk down through the botanical garden area if you're feeling adventurous.

Abanotubani & Dinner

Walk through the Abanotubani district, famous for its distinctive brick-domed sulfur baths.

While private baths can be pricey, viewing the architecture and enjoying the atmosphere is free. Afterwards, find an affordable restaurant in the area for a traditional Georgian dinner.

Many restaurants in this area offer outdoor seating. Look for 'chaqa' (traditional Georgian BBQ) or 'khinkali' spots for good value. Ask locals for recommendations for a student-friendly place.

Freedom Square & Rustaveli

Start the day at Freedom Square, a central landmark.

Then take a leisurely stroll down Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi's main thoroughfare, admiring the architecture of the Parliament of Georgia, Rustaveli Theatre, and various art galleries from the outside. Enjoy the morning buzz of the city.

This area is bustling and great for people-watching. Many cafes offer affordable coffee and pastries if you want a light breakfast.

Dry Bridge Market

Visit the famous Dry Bridge Market for unique souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts.

Even if not buying, it's a fascinating place for a browse and to soak in the local atmosphere. Practice your bargaining skills!

Open daily, but liveliest on weekends. A great place to find affordable gifts and unique items. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Last Tbilisi Lunch

Enjoy one final, delicious and budget-friendly Georgian lunch in Tbilisi.

Perhaps try a Lobiani (bean-filled bread) or another local specialty before heading back to Kutaisi.

Many small eateries around the market area offer quick and tasty local food at student-friendly prices.

Return to Kutaisi

Board a marshrutka from Tbilisi's Didube Bus Station back to Kutaisi.

This journey will take approximately 3-4 hours. Use the time to relax, chat about your trip, or catch up on some sleep.

Farewell Kutaisi Dinner

Arrive in Kutaisi and enjoy a final farewell dinner at one of your favorite local spots, or try a new one near the city center.

Celebrate your successful Georgian adventure with your friends.

Since Kutaisi is your hometown, you'll know the best spots for an authentic and affordable dinner. Perhaps revisit a place that holds good memories.

Departure from Kutaisi

Head to Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) for your night departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Georgian trip.

Allow ample time for transfer to the airport and check-in procedures.