Group tour from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

If you’re craving a day that combines history, architecture, and a dash of the mysterious, this group tour from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo might just hit the spot. It’s a well-paced journey that offers a taste of Georgia’s diverse appeal— from lively city streets to eerily beautiful abandoned sanatoriums, all packed into about 12 hours.

What we particularly like about this experience is how accessible it makes exploring these lesser-known sites, especially the abandoned Soviet sanatoriums in Tskaltubo, which are often missed on typical itineraries. Plus, the walking tour of Kutaisi really brings the city’s character and history to life. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour is quite full on, with a packed schedule that might be too hurried for some who prefer a more leisurely pace. But if you’re eager to see a lot and enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path sights, this tour is a fine choice. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and unique landscapes, especially those comfortable with a full day of activity.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Visit both the lively city of Kutaisi and the hauntingly beautiful abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines city walking with explorations of deserted buildings, offering a mix of urban and eerie rural landscapes.
• Local insights: Guide’s commentary provides context about Georgia’s Soviet occupation, adding depth to the sightseeing.
• Stunning views: From city landmarks to viewpoints over abandoned sanatoriums, the scenery is memorable.
• Flexible booking: Full refund if canceled 24 hours ahead, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Group size: Small-group feel enhances the experience, with live English-speaking guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in the Life of the Tour: What to Expect

Starting at 09:00 from the offices in Batumi, the day kicks off with a walking tour in the heart of Kutaisi, Georgia’s ancient city. This part of the journey is where we really get a sense of local history and architecture. The guide’s storytelling brings landmarks like the fountain group to life, and you’ll find yourself snapping photos of the pretty architecture and lively street scenes.

Walking through Kutaisi’s central park, you’ll see statues like that of Sister Ishkhnelebi and the memorial of 9 April, commemorating important moments in Georgia’s history. The city hall and the Opera House give a sense of the city’s cultural pride, while the Mon Plasir arch provides a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Next, the tour takes you past the first gymnasium, the White Bridge, and through the Park of Love—a charming spot for those romantic or nostalgic moments. The visit to the Golden Marquee Palace and the bustling Mtsvane Bazari (local market) allows a peek into daily life and Georgia’s vibrant market culture, perfect for picking up some souvenirs or imagining how locals shop.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Tskaltubo, famous for its medicinal springs and abandoned sanatoriums. The stop at Spring #6 is especially informative, where the guide shares insights about Georgia’s Soviet past and the role these sanatoriums played in health tourism during the USSR era.

Walking to Spring #8, you’ll encounter what many describe as the most unusual architecture among Tskaltubo’s springs. The buildings here, with their bizarre shapes and faded grandeur, evoke a sense of nostalgia and mystery—ideal for photography or simply pondering Georgia’s Soviet history.

The visit to Sanatorium Gelati is particularly interesting, as it was built specifically for children, featuring an old playground and stunning views over the internal structures. Walking to the Medea and Druzhba sanatoriums, you’ll see sprawling, abandoned complexes that seem frozen in time, providing a haunting contrast to the lively city.

Finally, the tour wraps up at the Tskaltubo train station, a nostalgic nod to the Soviet-era infrastructure, before returning to Batumi around 21:00. This day-long adventure offers a mix of lively urban sights and quiet, eerie relics that reveal a different side of Georgia.

Value and Practicalities

At a glance, the tour’s cost includes transportation, the walking tour in Kutaisi, and visits to the abandoned sanatoriums, making it a good value when you consider the breadth of experiences packed into 12 hours. The tour is conducted in English with a live guide, ensuring clarity and cultural insights throughout.

Transportation is straightforward, with a comfortable vehicle taking you from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo, saving you the hassle of self-driving or public transport. The group is kept small enough to allow for a personal experience, with enough flexibility for questions and interaction.

While the schedule is tight, it’s designed for those who want a rundown without the need for multiple days. The tour’s emphasis on storytelling and authentic exploration brings these sites to life far more than just sightseeing from a bus window.

Authentic Sights and Surprising Discoveries

Many travelers commented on the stunning views—from the cityscape of Kutaisi to the haunting beauty of the sanatoriums. One reviewer noted, “The abandoned sanatoriums are mesmerizing—like stepping into a ghost story, but with breathtaking architecture and views.”

The walking tour in Kutaisi was praised for its balance of history and local color. Travelers appreciated the guide’s stories, which added depth and understanding to each location, turning simple landmarks into meaningful memories. The visits to Spring #6 and Spring #8 are especially popular, with many describing the architecture as “unusual” and “hauntingly beautiful.”

A recurring theme in reviews is the contrast between the vibrant city life and the eeriness of the sanatoriums. Many found the latter to be the highlight, as they evoke curiosity about Georgia’s past and leave strong visual impressions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in history, architecture, and offbeat sights. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full day that combines city exploration with a touch of the mysterious. It suits those who enjoy walking and don’t mind a packed schedule, especially if you’re a fan of photography or storytelling about Soviet-era structures.

However, it might not be suitable for those seeking a relaxed pace or with mobility concerns, given the walking involved and the full-day itinerary. Those primarily interested in natural landscapes or outdoor adventures might find this tour less appealing, as it focuses on urban and abandoned sites.

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The Sum Up

This Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo tour offers a compelling mix of urban charm and haunting relics, making it a worthwhile choice for history buffs and curious travelers. The stunning views from various locations, combined with authentic stories about Georgia’s past, enrich the experience far beyond typical sightseeing.

The tour’s value lies in its ability to unlock hidden layers of Georgian history, especially through visiting the abandoned sanatoriums—a rare glimpse into the Soviet era that you won’t find on every trip. The inclusion of a lively city walk in Kutaisi ensures you get a sense of local life, making the day well-rounded.

If you’re eager to see a different side of Georgia—from bustling markets to ghostly sanatoriums—this tour is a memorable, affordable way to do so. Perfect for those who want an active, insightful, and visually striking day out.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 12 hours, starting at 09:00 and returning around 21:00, with a packed schedule designed to cover many highlights.

What does the tour include?
It includes transportation from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo, a walking tour of Kutaisi, visits to abandoned sanatoriums, and guided commentary in English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a lunch break?
Yes, after the walking tour, there’s a lunch break. The itinerary suggests this is a good chance to enjoy local cuisine, though specifics depend on timing and preferences.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be exploring on foot, including walking through parks and abandoned buildings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking through abandoned sanatoriums that might be best suited for older children or teenagers interested in history and architecture.

What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English with a live guide, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are the abandoned sanatoriums safe to visit?
Guided visits are organized, but as with any abandoned sites, caution should be exercised, and visitors should follow the guide’s instructions for safety.

You can check availability for your dates here: