How do you get from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, and how long does it take?
Train, minibus, coach or taxi for 230 kilometres.
Short answer
Tbilisi to Kutaisi is about 230 kilometres, around 3-4 hours by car or minibus. Minibuses leave from Didube station, trains run, and buses timed to flights serve Kutaisi Airport. A taxi or private transfer costs more but lets you stop on the way.
Why
- The new expressway over the Rikoti Pass is gradually cutting journey times.
- The Tbilisi-Batumi train stops at Kutaisi Airport, not in the city itself.
- You can stop at Gori and Uplistsikhe on the way.
Details
If flying from Kutaisi, allow plenty of time and book the airport bus in advance. Train tickets are sold on the Georgian Railway website.
Tip
Leave in the morning so you can see Kutaisi and its surroundings in daylight.
What may differ
Travel time depends on roadworks and traffic on the Rikoti Pass.
People also ask
- How to get from Tbilisi to Kutaisi?
Sources
- Georgian Railway: timetable and ticketsChecked at:
Timetables and prices change, so check with the carrier before you travel.
Tbilisi to Kutaisi: getting thereRelated questions
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Is there a ferry from Batumi to other countries?
A passenger ferry operated by Ukrferry runs from the port of Batumi to Varna in Bulgaria, and the carrier's site publishes fares for the vessel Kaunas from 1 June 2026.
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How do you get from Kutaisi to Mestia?
The road from Kutaisi to Mestia takes about 4 hours 20 minutes, and on Wednesdays there is a flight from Kutaisi Airport to Mestia.
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Are there domestic flights in Georgia, for example to Mestia and Ambrolauri?
Domestic flights do exist in Georgia: from Natakhtari Airport near Tbilisi they go to Mestia, Ambrolauri and Batumi, and from Kutaisi Airport to Mestia on Wednesdays.
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Does Tbilisi Airport have left luggage and a business lounge?
Tbilisi Airport has a left luggage office in the departures terminal that is open 24/7, and a paid Primeclass Lounge past passport control by Gate 101.