5 Ways to Travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi

The distance between Tbilisi and Kutaisi is approximately 230 km, with a travel time of around 4 hours. There are several ways to make the journey, including minibus or bus, train, taxi, rental car, or private transfer GoTrip. Each option varies in price, comfort level, and travel duration.

Let’s compare five ways to travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi, considering different modes of transportation, the costs involved, and the pros and cons of each method.

Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Cost: $12 (about 30 Lari)
Departure Point: Didube

Minibuses from Tbilisi to Kutaisi depart from Didube Station every hour from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. There is no fixed schedule, so it is best to arrive at the station in advance. If all the seats are filled, the minibus may leave earlier, and you might have to wait for the next one.

You cannot book tickets or reserve seats in advance; payment is made on-site in cash. Typically, the driver collects the fare.

The journey between the cities is picturesque, passing through Gori, Khashuri, and Zestafoni. However, you won’t have a chance to enjoy the beautiful views or visit roadside restaurants, as the minibus stops only once during the trip.

Pros:

• Affordable (though you should factor in taxi costs to and from the station)

Cons:

• It can be stuffy in minibuses (especially in summer)
• Can be unsafe (minibus drivers often prefer aggressive driving styles, frequently overtaking and making sudden accelerations and stops; if you or your children have a weak vestibular system, consider taking motion sickness medication beforehand)
• Seatbelts are not available
• Noisy (you may have to listen to music that matches the driver’s preferences)
• No fixed schedule
• Limited space for luggage

Travel Time: 5 hours
Cost: From 9 to 71 Lari + taxi from the airport
Distance: 217 km

Trains depart daily from Tbilisi Central Railway Station at 8:00 AM, 8:20 AM, 8:45 AM, and 5:05 PM (please check the schedule because it often changes). If the train is not direct, you will need to get off at the Kutaisi International Airport stop. 

These are comfortable trains with seating, air conditioning, and power outlets for charging devices. However, the journey takes longer than by minibus, and you won’t have the opportunity to see scenic views or dine in colorful restaurants along the way, as there is no dining car on the train.

Tickets can be purchased at the station or online through railway.ge or tkt.ge. To book online, you must register in advance and provide your passport details. There’s no need to print your ticket; an electronic version on your phone along with your passport is sufficient.

From Personal Experience:

If you are traveling with someone, it’s better to buy tickets at the station. When booking online, you cannot choose your seats; the system automatically assigns them, and often they are located at opposite ends of the carriage. This can be inconvenient, as passengers may ask each other to swap seats to sit together. Another downside is the very weak internet signal. You won’t be able to work or watch movies online during the trip, so it’s best to download a movie in advance. Don’t forget your headphones (and if you want to sleep during the journey, bring earplugs), as passengers often watch videos at full volume.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Safe
• Relatively comfortable with restroom facilities
• Clear schedule
• Ability to order tickets online and pay by card

Cons:

• You miss out on beautiful scenery and interesting stops along the way
• The journey takes a long time
• It can be cramped (the space between seats is limited)
• You cannot choose your seats (to guarantee sitting together, it’s better to buy tickets in advance at the station)
• Additional taxi fare is needed to get to the station with luggage
• No designated space for large suitcases (there are overhead compartments for carry-on luggage; if you have a large suitcase, it’s best to arrive early to place it in the train cabin)
• Weak internet connection and mobile signal drops

Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Cost: $70–90 (200–270 Lari)

Taking a taxi is a quicker but pricier option for getting from Tbilisi to Kutaisi. Depending on the rate, time, and demand, you can expect to pay between $70 and $90 (averaging around 200–250 Lari) or more. You can easily order a taxi to Kutaisi using various apps, just like you would for local rides. The fare will be calculated at the time of booking.

While this option is generally more comfortable than taking a minibus, be prepared for potentially aggressive driving styles that might take you by uncomfortable.

From Personal Experience:

It’s advisable to book your taxi in advance, especially during peak travel times. Occasionally, drivers may accept your request but fail to show up, which means you’ll need to cancel and request another ride. I recommend avoiding vehicles listed under the “economy” fare; they often lack air conditioning, may be in poor condition, and drivers might smoke while driving (you can ask them not to do it).

Pros:

• Faster than both the train and minibus
• Available at any time (though you might have to wait during busy periods)
• Plenty of space for luggage
• Payment can be made by card

Cons:

• More expensive than the train or minibus
• Safety concerns (you can’t predict the driver’s style or the condition of the vehicle)
• The ride may be uncomfortable due to aggressive driving
• You cannot choose your car or driver
• Less reliable than the train (if your taxi breaks down during the trip, app support may not be very helpful. You’ll need to call another taxi, which can be tricky if it happens on a winding road)

Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Cost: From $50–70 (140–190 Lari and up) per day for the car + about $40 (100 Lari) for fuel one way

Another option is to rent a car without a driver and make the journey yourself. A standard sedan, like a Toyota Prius, typically starts at around $50 per day. However, budget cars are often in short supply at rental agencies, especially on weekends, so rental costs may be higher. Keep in mind that you will also need to pay for fuel. It’s advisable to fill up before hitting the mountain roads, as gas stations are scarce in those areas.

From Personal Experience:

The drive to Kutaisi is scenic, but if you’re not experienced with driving in Georgia, you’ll need to adapt to the local driving style. Be especially cautious of aggressive overtaking, where drivers expect you to slow down (and don’t always follow the laws of physics). It’s best to slow down if you see an oncoming vehicle. Plan to leave early to account for potential traffic.

Pros:

• Comfortable (you can choose your vehicle)
• Ample space for luggage
• No strangers in the car
• Relatively fast (depending on your driving style)

Cons:

• Expensive (consider both rental costs and fuel)
• Could be exhausting (the winding mountain roads require constant concentration)
• You’ll need to return the car or pay extra for the rental company to do it
• Unsafe (if you’re unfamiliar with the roads and not used to local driving habits)

Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Cost: from $85 (approximately 230 Lari)

The final option is the private transfer service GoTrip. For the price of a taxi, you can enjoy a comprehensive tour with a verified local driver who will recommend (if you wish, of course) the best places to stop for delicious khinkali and capture stunning photographs.

Unlike the previous options, you can book a specific date and time for your trip in advance. The driver will arrive at your chosen location in the city at the scheduled time. The quoted price is final, and you pay in cash at the end of the journey. All stops and waiting times along the way are complimentary.

Book a Transfer from Tbilisi to Kutaisi with Free Cancellation

GoTrip only employs experienced drivers with a minimum of five years in the field, all of whom have undergone customer service training. They are locals who know the roads well and can navigate more efficient or comfortable routes. The vehicles are always clean and undergo regular maintenance checks. Additionally, you can choose your music for the duration of the ride.

Pros:

• Flexible scheduling and punctuality (the driver will arrive early at your specified address)
• Memorable experiences (you’ll see beautiful sights and enjoy the journey)
• Safety (the company only hires vetted drivers who have completed training programs)
• Comfort (ample space for luggage, and the driver will speak your language). You can select your vehicle and view photos of it inside and out on the website.
• Free cancellation available

Cons:

• More expensive than taking a train or minibus (however, if you split the cost among passengers, it becomes more economical)
• Currently, payment by card is not available (this feature will be introduced in a few months)

Choose your vehicle and book your transfer on the website.