Day tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

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1 Discover Georgia’s Hidden Secrets: Day Tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

2 A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Discover Georgia’s Hidden Secrets: Day Tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, architecture, and intriguing landscapes, this guided tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo offers a compelling escape from the city. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about experiencing the echoes of Georgia’s Soviet past intertwined with vibrant city life and eerie abandoned sanatoriums.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances cultural storytelling with visual surprises — from charming city streets to bizarre, almost post-apocalyptic sanatorium ruins. Plus, the guides are noted for their helpfulness and depth of knowledge, which makes the whole day more engaging.

One thing to consider is the long duration — about 14 hours — which might be tiring for some travelers, especially those not used to full-day excursions. Still, if you’re eager to see a mix of historic sites, local life, and haunting architecture, this tour is well worth the time.

This journey appeals most to travelers who love offbeat history, architectural quirks, and authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. It’s ideal for those curious about Georgia’s Soviet-era monuments and who enjoy walking tours that reveal the city’s stories and secrets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip: An immersive experience combining city walking, historical insights, and exploration of abandoned Soviet sanatoriums.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance your understanding and enjoyment of each stop.
Unique Architecture: Expect to see bizarre and atmospheric Soviet-era buildings, especially in Tskaltubo.
Authentic Local Experience: Walking through Kutaisi’s streets and markets offers a genuine taste of local life.
Long but Rewarding: A full 14-hour day, perfect for travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule.
Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay-later options make planning stress-free.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kutaisi.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Tbilisi

The adventure begins at 09:00 from the tour operator’s office in Tbilisi. The early start is typical for full-day excursions, but it’s a small price to pay for the treasures ahead. Once gathered, your guide—whose local knowledge and engaging style are frequently praised—leads you through a lively walking tour of Kutaisi’s downtown.

Exploring Kutaisi’s Vibrant Streets

Walking through Kutaisi gives you a taste of Georgia’s second-largest city with highlights such as the central fountain group, central park, and notable monuments like the statue of Sister Ishkhnelebi and the April 9 Memorial. The group also pauses at the Kutaisi City Hall and the Opera House, giving you a chance to appreciate the blend of historic and cultural architecture.

The tour takes you past the Mon Plasir arch and the White Bridge, before a stroll through the Park of Love and the striking Golden Marquee Palace. The central grocery market (Mtsvane Bazari) offers a lively glimpse into everyday local life and an opportunity to see the region’s vibrant produce and goods.

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Lunch Break and Local Flavors

After your morning walk, a well-timed lunch break allows you to sample local cuisine, fueling you for the afternoon adventures — a good reminder that even a busy day can include authentic, hearty Georgian food.

Here's some more things to do in Kutaisi

Journey to Tskaltubo’s Haunted Sanatoriums

Post-lunch, the bus takes you to Tskaltubo, a resort town famous for its Soviet-era sanatoriums. The first stop is Spring #6, where your guide shares stories about Georgia’s Soviet occupation and the history behind these vast thermal pools. You’ll see Spring #8, renowned for its unusual architecture—a building that looks almost like a relic from a science fiction film, eerie yet captivating.

Next, you visit Sanatorium Gelati, originally built for children, where old playground equipment and a stunning viewpoint over the sanatorium’s inner construction give a haunting yet beautiful perspective of the site. The eerie silence and abandoned structures evoke a sense of Georgia’s complex history and the once-glamorous health resort era.

Following this, you explore Sanatorium Medea and Druzhba, each with their own stories and atmospheric decay—perfect for those interested in Soviet architecture or seeking striking visuals. The final stop is the Tskaltubo train station, where the tour winds down, offering a last glimpse of this forgotten landscape.

Practical Details and Timing

The entire journey ends around 22:00 in Tbilisi, a long but rewarding day. The tour’s inclusiveness—guided transportation, expert commentary, and entry to key sites—provides excellent value, especially considering the unique sights and stories packed into this single day.

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer describing their guide as “very helpful, informative, and kind,” and another highlighting that the tour “made the day really fun” while providing loads of learning. The stunning, atmospheric ruins in Tskaltubo are a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Georgia’s history.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable transportation, which is essential given the long hours and multiple stops. Although group sizes are not specified, the reviews suggest a friendly, manageable group conducive to personalized attention.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t detailed here, the inclusive nature and the variety of sights suggest good value for travelers interested in history, architecture, and authentic local life. The flexibility of free cancellation and pay later options adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who thrive on offbeat history and visual stories. If you enjoy walking through city streets with a knowledgeable guide, marveling at bizarre architecture, or exploring abandoned buildings with a hint of mystery, this is a trip for you. It suits curious travelers eager to learn about Georgia’s Soviet past in a hands-on way, not just through museums but by seeing the actual sites.

It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate authentic local markets, city life, and scenic views that evoke the atmosphere of a different era. Keep in mind, the full-day length may be tiring but rewarding for those ready for a comprehensive Georgian adventure.

The Sum Up

This day tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, and local color. You’ll walk through vibrant city streets, learning about Georgia’s past from engaging guides, then step into the haunting remains of Soviet sanatoriums with a sense of discovery. The tour’s value lies not just in the sights but in the stories, visuals, and authentic experiences you’ll gather along the way.

It’s best for travelers who love a story behind every building, enjoy exploring offbeat locations, and aren’t afraid of a long day filled with surprises. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just curious about Georgia’s layered past, this tour provides a memorable window into a fascinating corner of the country.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 14 hours, starting at 09:00 and ending around 22:00 in Tbilisi.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the walking tour of Kutaisi’s city center, visits to abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo, and seeing Soviet-era architecture and historical sites.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable transportation from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo is part of the package.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, guides speak English and Georgian.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and bring your camera for the striking architecture and scenic views.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be a designated break for you to enjoy local cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but be prepared for a full day of walking and exploration.

How many people are typically in the group?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a manageable group that allows for personalized attention.

What makes this tour unique?
The mix of vibrant city life, haunting abandoned sanatoriums, and insightful storytelling creates an experience that’s both educational and atmospheric, providing a deep dive into Georgia’s Soviet history in a memorable way.