Kutaisi is the traditional rival of Tbilisi for capital status, and has since the days of the Golden Fleece been considered the capital of Western Georgia (then Ancient Colchis). It remains Georgia’s second largest city, but to the irritation of the proud locals, does not come even close to Tbilisi’s present day size and wealth. Since the Georgian government decided to move their parliament to Kutaisi, there has been a lot of work on restoring streets, buildings, parks and monuments and the city has become much safer. But a visit here is nonetheless near mandatory to see the magnificent Bagrati Cathedral, and Gelati Monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, and have commanding views from the mountain slopes over the city and the Rioni river. Otherwise, Kutaisi is a relatively pleasant city, although not as attractive for tourists as Tbilisi and cities on the nearby Black Sea coast.
Batumi is the second-largest city in Georgia. Located on the coast of the Black Sea, it is lined with palm trees and surrounded by mountains. Batumi is the region’s tourist and gambling capital. It presents an eclectic mix of architecture, ranging from charming 19th century classical edifices to ultra-modern skyscrapers housing hotels and casinos. A regional party hub, Batumi has a vibrant night life, hosting increasingly big name international DJs and pop concerts. The Black Sea city welcomes visitors from across different regions – as of 2015, most tourists fly in from locations as diverse as Russia, Israel, Poland, Turkey, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Lithuania and others.
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Route
Berli (SXF) – Kutaisi (KUT) – Berli (SXF)
Travel dates
120 Eur
120 Eur
110 Eur
Hotels
Best budget deals in Batumi
Booking.com review 8.5
from 4 Eur ppn
Booking.com review 9.5
from 3 Eur ppn
Booking.com review 8.9
from 6 Eur ppn
Top 3 ★★★ hotels
Booking.com review 9.7
from 19 Eur ppn
Booking.com review 9.6
from 19 Eur ppn
Booking.com review 9.5
from 14 Eur ppn
Transportation
Rent a car here
Airport transfer you can find here
Bus transfer from Kutaisi airport to Batumi information
Places of interest
Monument Ali and Nino
Europe Square
Argo Cable Car
Alphabetic Tower
Seafood Market
eat and relax
Cafes
Restaurants
Diner
Local cuisine
Bars
Night life