How to Get from Kutaisi to Batumi: 5 Options for Every Budget

The distance between Kutaisi and Batumi is about 157 kilometers (along highways E60 and E70). This route is one of the most popular among tourists in Georgia. You have several options for getting from Kutaisi to Batumi, including marshrutkas (minibuses), trains, taxis, rental cars, or private transfers.

Depending on your choice of transport and traffic conditions, the journey can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each travel option available in 2022!

Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Cost: 2 lari (around $1)
Departure Location: Kutaisi Railway Station (coordinates: 42.31668727518054, 42.735834540298264)

Since spring 2022, a modern Stadler electric train has been running between Kutaisi and Batumi. Trains depart daily from the railway station, with the morning train leaving at 5:40 AM and arriving in Batumi at 10:02 AM. The evening train departs at 4:30 PM and reaches Batumi Central Station at 8:42 PM.

From Personal Experience:

I attempted to book tickets through the official state railways website, but it didn’t work out. When I contacted customer service, they informed me that tickets can only be purchased on-site—either at the ticket counters before departure or directly on the train. A staff member confirmed that the fare is 2 lari.

Pros:

• Affordable: Just keep in mind that you’ll need to get to the railway station first and then find your way to your final destination in Batumi. It’s best to use a ride-hailing app for a taxi, as drivers offering their services at the station typically charge 2-4 times more.
• Safe
• Relatively Comfortable: The electric train features only seating and is air-conditioned.

Cons:

• Inconvenient Schedule: You’ll either have to wake up very early or arrive in Batumi after sunset, which means you might miss out on rest or spend your entire day traveling.
• No Online Ticket Purchase or Seat Selection: You’ll need to go to the station or find available seats (there are usually seats available on the morning train since few people travel at that hour).
• Long Travel Time: The train travels relatively slowly, making the journey nearly twice as long as by car or minibus.
• Limited Sightseeing Opportunities: You can’t stop along the way to check out interesting places or grab a meal at a restaurant.
• Can Be Noisy

Overall, while taking the train can be a budget-friendly option, it comes with some trade-offs in terms of convenience and comfort.

Travel Time: About 3 hours
Cost: around 25-30 lari
Departure Location: Central Bus Station (coordinates: 42.2575897144937, 42.670733690587255)

Minibuses to Batumi leave from the Central Bus Station in Kutaisi every hour from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Look for the McDonald’s nearby; the minibuses are parked there.

There’s no set departure time, so it’s best to arrive at the station a bit early and ask the drivers where to find your minibus. They’ll direct you to the right spot. Minibuses depart as soon as they fill up with passengers, and you can only pay cash directly to the driver when you board.

From Personal Experience:

It can be tricky to predict when a minibus will fill up. Usually, there are several minibuses waiting at the station, but sometimes one might leave just before you get on, forcing you to wait another 40 minutes for the next one. The route passes through various towns where more passengers hop on, and even if all the seats are taken, the driver will still stop to pick up new passengers. Sometimes it got quite cramped with too many people and their bags.

Pros:

• Relatively Cheap: Although it’s about ten times more expensive than taking the train.
• More Flexible Schedule: Compared to trains.
• Faster than the Train

Cons:

• No Set Schedule: You can’t reserve a ticket or predict when the minibus will leave.
• Limited Space for Luggage: The driver usually puts bags in the back, but space can be tight, especially for larger suitcases.
• Safety Concerns: Most local drivers have an aggressive driving style.
• Frequent Stops for Passengers: This can be tiring.
• Crowded Conditions: Especially during tourist season.
• Hot and Stuffy in Warmer Weather: The driver might smoke while driving.
• Noisy Atmosphere: Passengers often chat or talk on their phones, and drivers usually play music.
• Missed Scenery Opportunities: You can’t stop to enjoy sights along the way.
• Cash Only for Payment.

So, while taking a minibus can be an affordable option, it comes with its own set of challenges regarding comfort and convenience.

Travel Time: About 2.5 hours
Cost: Approximately 200 lari (around $70) 

Taking a taxi can be a quicker and more comfortable option, but your experience will largely depend on the driver. In Kutaisi, you can use ride-hailing apps to request a taxi, which lets you see the estimated fare upfront. However, you won’t have the option to choose your car or driver. If you can, ask locals for recommendations on reliable drivers, as some people in the city work part-time as private taxi operators.

From Personal Experience:

Calling a taxi in Georgia can feel a bit like playing the lottery. You might get a friendly driver with great taste in music (I once enjoyed a smooth ride listening to Pink Floyd), or you could end up with someone who drives aggressively, making for a less enjoyable trip. Always check the fare and compare prices; sometimes, a driver recommended by a friend may not be cheaper than one you find through an app. Taxi drivers at the airport often charge higher rates, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.

Pros:

• Flexible Timing: You can choose whatever time works best for you.
• Faster than Train or Minibus
• More Comfortable: This really depends on the driver and the condition of the car.
• Room for Luggage: Just make sure to check trunk space beforehand, as cars with gas tanks may have limited room.

Cons:

• More Expensive than Train or Minibus
• No Choice of Car or Driver
• Safety Concerns: Some drivers may have aggressive driving styles.
• Driver Behavior: The driver might smoke or play loud music, and they may ask you lots of questions (if you want to avoid smoking, just mention that you’re allergic to smoke).
• Extra Charges for Stops Along the Way

Taking a taxi can be convenient and fast, however, it’s good to keep in mind some potential downsides regarding safety and cost.

Travel Time: About 3 hours
Cost: Starting at 100 lari (around $40) + return fees + fuel (approximately $10)

Anyone over the age of 23 with at least 3 years of driving experience can rent a car in Georgia. You’ll need just two documents: your driver’s license and an ID (passport).

In addition to the rental fee, most car rental companies require a deposit when you sign the rental agreement (usually between $100 and $200, but for more expensive models, it can go up to $1,000). The deposit is refunded if there are no new damages to the car.

From Personal Experience:

The drive along this route is straightforward, but you’ll pass through many towns. Be prepared to navigate around trucks and cows, which sometimes just lie on the road. Around the 120-kilometer mark, the road transitions to highway E70, where the speed limit is higher. There are many speed cameras along the way: the speed limit in towns is 50 km/h.

Pros:

• Faster than Train or Minibus
• Comfortable: You can choose a car that suits your needs and arrange for it to be delivered to the airport.
• Insurance Included
• Flexibility to Stop: You can take breaks and visit interesting places along the way.

Cons:

• Costly: When you factor in fuel, the deposit, and return fees, this option can become quite expensive. If you plan to use the car in Batumi, remember to include parking costs: 10 Lari per day, 20 Lari per week, or 30 Lari per month. You can pay for parking at an info kiosk in banks or through the local banking apps.
• Safety Concerns: Driving on your own can be risky, especially if you’re not familiar with driving in Georgia. Local drivers may not always use turn signals, often pull out from side roads abruptly, and pedestrians frequently cross streets in unsafe places.

Renting a car offers convenience and flexibility but requires careful consideration of costs and safety.

Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Cost: Starting at 203 Lari ($74)

With GoTrip, you can book a private transfer with a driver in advance for your desired date and time (including airport pickups). The cost is calculated automatically and remains the same regardless of how many stops you make along the way.

If you’re planning a day trip to Batumi without an overnight stay, this option is particularly convenient—just be sure to specify your return city on the website. If it’s Kutaisi, the price won’t change (if your driver is planning to come back too).

Your driver will arrive at your specified location, recommend places to see along the way, and suggest cafes where you can enjoy delicious homemade Georgian dishes.

From Personal Experience:

As you get closer to the sea, the scenery becomes more beautiful. The mountainous region of Adjara is stunning, featuring bamboo groves, palm trees, and lush green mountains. Along the way to Batumi, you can visit coastal resorts like Ureki and Shekvetili, known for their healing black magnetic sands, as well as Kobuleti with its pebble beaches. This route also takes you past the Black Sea Arena concert venue and Musicians’ Park, where you can stroll for free in the shade of eucalyptus trees, and admire musical sculptures of famous artists.

Pros:

• Flexible Schedule: You choose the date and time, allowing you to plan your trip around your schedule or flight.
• Fixed Price: The cost includes both the outbound and return trip on the same day (just make sure to specify the Kutaisi-Batumi-Kutaisi route on the website) and covers fuel.
• Choice of Driver and Vehicle: You can select a driver and car based on preferences like language, vehicle type, reviews, and price.
• No Need for Additional Transport: This is especially convenient if you’re coming from the airport.
• Safety: Drivers have undergone safety training and are responsible for their vehicle’s condition.
• Free Cancellation
• Comfort: Drivers choose the best routes and provide recommendations for stops along the way while sharing information about local attractions and restaurants.

Cons:

• Cash Payment Only: Currently, payments are made in cash at the end of the trip (card payments may be available in a few months).
• Higher Cost than Minibus or Train.

Create a route plan on the website and compare offers from different drivers. Each driver has a personal profile with photos and reviews.

Here you can book a transfer from Kutaisi to Batumi

Have a safe and exciting journey!