How to get to Kobuleti from Tbilisi in 2025

If you’ve longed to escape the throngs of tourists and immerse yourself in nature while listening to the soothing sounds of the sea, Kobuleti is the perfect destination. This charming resort town is located 350 km from Tbilisi and features just two long streets alongside a pebble beach.

Finding accommodation is a breeze, whether you stay on the first or second line from the beach. You can wake up to breathtaking views each morning, with the azure sea on one side and subtropical mountains on the other.

For those seeking variety, Kobuleti offers delightful dining options featuring national cuisine and exciting excursions. Popular attractions include the Botanical Garden in Batumi, the ancient Petra Fortress, and the lush banana groves in Tsikhisdziri. 

Alternatively, head in the opposite direction to explore Ureki’s unique black magnetic sand beaches or stroll through the unusual parks of Shekvetili.

Interested? Let’s explore how to get to Kobuleti and the costs in 2025.

To get to Kobuleti, you can take any train traveling from Tbilisi to Batumi. These routes are serviced by modern Stadler trains, which are high-speed, double-decker, and equipped with convenient amenities like toilets, air conditioning, and power outlets.

From personal experience, while the trains do provide Wi-Fi, the connection is often weak, and mobile reception can be spotty. For this reason, it’s better not to plan any work calls during your trip.

There are no weight restrictions for luggage, so you can bring as much as you need. However, keep in mind that there aren’t designated storage areas for large suitcases—they’re usually left near the carriage doors.

Taking the train is an affordable and comfortable way to reach Kobuleti. Tickets are available online or at the ticket offices at the Central Railway Station (near Metro Station Square).

Important Tips:

• Carry your passport in case it’s checked during boarding.
• You don’t need a printed ticket; just show the conductor a screenshot of your booking number on your phone.

Departure Times:

• 08:00
• 17:10 (additional trains are available during the summer season)

Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours

Ticket Prices:

• 2nd Class: 35 GEL (approximately $12.25)
• 1st Class: 75 GEL (approximately $26.25)

Helpful Advice: During summer, 2nd class tickets sell out quickly because they’re more affordable. The 1st class option is twice as expensive and mainly differs in seat comfort and spacing. It’s also common for only single seats to remain available, which means groups might have to sit apart. To avoid this, buy your tickets early at the station and double-check the schedule.

You can travel to Kobuleti via City Bus or Metro Georgia. Most of these buses are new and well-equipped, featuring free Wi-Fi, TV, luggage space, and a steward who ensures order and manages stops. This option is also a budget-friendly way to reach Kobuleti.

However, be prepared for a lengthy journey, as the bus ride takes approximately 6 hours, and the schedule may not always be convenient. At times, you might find yourself traveling for nearly an entire day or night.

Buses depart from Ortachala bus station (Gulia 1), and City Bus also picks up passengers from Mari Market near Digomi Park.

Tickets can be purchased online through the carrier’s website or at the ticket office (Gulia 1). Make sure to print your electronic tickets before your trip (or just save it on your phone).

Departure Times:

• 12:00
• 18:00
• 23:59

Travel Time: Approximately 6 hours

Cost: 40 GEL ($14)

Helpful Advice: The bus schedule can change periodically, so it’s best to check the departure times on the carriers’ websites for the most accurate information here and here.

There are no dedicated minibuses from Tbilisi directly to Kobuleti; instead, you can take any minibus heading to Batumi. When boarding, be sure to inform the driver that you need to stop in Kobuleti, as many of these minibuses travel along the bypass road and will only stop in the city if there are passengers wishing to disembark.

Minibuses leave from Didube bus station as they fill up, which means you can catch a ride approximately every hour. However, tickets cannot be purchased online; you’ll need to arrive at the station early, find a minibus, and pay the driver in cash for your ticket.

While this is one of the most budget-friendly options available, consider your comfort and safety. Georgian drivers tend to drive fast, which can be unsettling on mountain roads—especially if you’re traveling with children. Additionally, during summer months, the minibuses can become hot and noisy, with few stops along the route.

Departure Times:

• Starting from 07:00 AM, every hour

Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours

Cost: 30-35 GEL ($10-12)

Helpful Advice: Opt for a minibus if you need to reach Kobuleti and other transport options are fully booked.

For a convenient journey from Tbilisi to Kobuleti, consider using GoTrip. To arrange your transfer, simply visit the website, enter your departure and destination points, select your preferred date, and choose a suitable car and driver who speaks English.

The transfer price includes stops and waiting time, allowing you to turn your trip into a mini-excursion if desired. Along the way to Kobuleti, you can explore various picturesque sites such as the Greek fortress of Petra, the Chakvistavi waterfalls, and ancient bridges over the Kintrishi River—without any additional cost!

Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours (excluding stops)

Cost: Starting from 309 GEL, or $109 (from Tbilisi)

Book a transfer from Tbilisi to Kobuleti without deposit

This option offers flexibility and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who want a personalized travel experience.

In Georgia, you can easily book a taxi using apps like YandexGo, Maxim, or Bolt. The fare for a trip from Tbilisi to Kobuleti typically ranges from 230 to 290 GEL  ($80-103) , depending on factors such as weather, time of day, and demand.

Traveling by taxi offers a more comfortable and relatively faster experience compared to a minibus. However, the quality of your trip can vary significantly based on the driver. Unfortunately, the app does not allow you to select a specific driver, so it’s wise to check the condition of the car before starting your journey.

Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours (excluding stops)

Cost: 230-290 GEL ($80.99 to $107.81)

Helpful Advice: Avoid choosing economy class (the cheapest option) for your taxi ride. The condition of the interior in these vehicles may be subpar, and drivers might smoke, engage in unpleasant conversations, or drive aggressively. Given the length of the journey to Kobuleti, it’s worth paying a little extra for a more comfortable experience.

Renting a car in Tbilisi starts at an average of 140 GEL per day (approximately $49). For this price, you can rent a vehicle like a Ford Fusion and drive to Kobuleti. Additionally, expect to spend around 100-150 GEL ($35-$52) on gasoline for the trip.

Keep in mind that some rental companies may require a deposit ranging from 300 to 600 GEL (about $105 to $210), depending on the type of car you choose.

Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours (excluding stops)

Cost: Starting from 140 GEL ($49) per day + 100-150 GEL ($35-$52) for gasoline

Helpful Advice: Rental cars are in high demand, especially on weekends, so it’s best to book your vehicle in advance to ensure availability. Renting a car not only provides you with the freedom to explore at your own pace but also allows you to discover beautiful landscapes and attractions along the way, making it an excellent choice for your trip to Kobuleti.