How to Get to Poti: By Plane, Train, Bus, or Car

Let’s explore how to get to Poti – often called Georgia’s sea gate. Even today, you can spot rows of merchant ships lined up at the port. The city itself has only a few tourist attractions, largely due to its industrial setting.

Still, many travelers appreciate Poti’s unique atmosphere: the slow rhythm of daily life is occasionally interrupted by the creak of port cranes, and the salty sea air mixes with the scent of coffee from cozy cafés. In addition to strolling through the streets, you can head just outside the city to relax on nearby beaches or visit the beautiful Lake Paliastomi.

If you’re wondering how to reach Poti from abroad, flying is the most convenient option.

The best route is to book a flight to Batumi (there are currently direct flights from various cities), and then travel to Poti by taxi or transfer. The seaside town is about 68 km away, which takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

A cheaper alternative is to take a minibus after your flight, but that means heading to the station while tired and adjusting to the public transport schedule.

Minibuses from Batumi to Poti depart from the bus station as they fill up – usually about once an hour. A ticket costs just 5 GEL.

• Travel time: around 3 hours 40 minutes (flight) + 1 hour 30 minutes (taxi/transfer) or 1 hour 35 minutes (minibus)
• Cost: from 480 GEL (flight with luggage) + from 47 GEL (taxi/transfer) or 5 GEL (minibus)
  

A train from Tbilisi to Poti departs every day at 17:25. The journey takes about 5.5 hours, but during that time, you’ll get to enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes in Georgia right outside your window. It’s also one of the most affordable ways to get to Poti.

You can buy tickets at the ticket office at the Central Railway Station (2, Station Square Metro) or online. There’s no need to print your ticket – just take a screenshot and show the booking number to the conductor on your phone. Still, it’s a good idea to carry your passport with you, just in case.

• Departure time: 17:25 daily
• Travel time: 5 hours 34 minutes
• Cost: from 14 GEL (2nd class), 31 GEL (1st class), 45 GEL (business class)

Before your trip, it’s best to double-check the schedule and ticket prices either at the station or on the official website.

Another budget-friendly way to get to Poti is by bus. But keep in mind that you’ll need to make one transfer along the way.

First, travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi. Buses on this route are operated by City Bus, departing from the Ortachala Bus Station (1 Gulia Street, Isani Metro Station). Some buses also pick up passengers at Mari Market near Digomi Park.

These are modern, comfortable buses with free Wi-Fi, TVs, and an onboard attendant. However, there are only two departures per day, so it’s important to check the schedule in advance. You can do that here. A ticket costs 30 GEL.

Once in Kutaisi, you’ll need to transfer to a bus to Poti. These depart from the main bus station (67 Chavchavadze Street) every hour from 07:15 to 19:00. A ticket costs 7 GEL.

• Departure time:
  01:00 and 16:00 (Tbilisi to Kutaisi, from Ortachala Bus Station)
  every hour from 07:15 to 19:00 (Kutaisi to Poti)
• Travel time: 3 hours 30 minutes (Tbilisi to Kutaisi) + 2 hours (Kutaisi to Poti)
• Cost: 30 GEL (to Kutaisi) + 7 GEL (to Poti)

Poti is about 414 km from Tbilisi. The trip takes approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes if you drive without any stops.

But let’s be honest – most travelers don’t go non-stop. Along the way, you might pause for a bite of khachapuri or stop to snap some photos near scenic spots like Uplistsikhe.

The fastest route is via the ს1 and E60 highways. You can rent a car in Tbilisi from 140 GEL per day, and gasoline will cost approximately 115–165 GEL.

• Travel time: about 4 hours 20 minutes (without stops)
• Cost: from 140 GEL/day + 115–165 GEL for fuel (some rental companies also require a deposit)
  

  If your budget allows, opt for a comfort or business-class taxi. This increases the chances of getting a clean car and a polite, professional driver.

For many travelers, comfort and safety are key. If that sounds like you, a transfer is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to get to Poti.

Booking is simple: just choose your starting point, destination, travel date, and any stops you’d like to make along the way. These could include sights, restaurants, or shops (no need to add them if they’re already along the route).

Book a transfer from Tbilisi to Poti

Once you enter your details, the system will show all available drivers. Each profile includes the driver’s name, photo, reviews, and a detailed description of the car, including passenger capacity, luggage space, and features.

The price is fixed and won’t change based on waiting time or the number of stops.

After booking, your driver will get in touch to confirm the trip and pick you up at the agreed location. If needed, they can provide a child seat (free of charge) and help with luggage.

Travel time: About 4 hours 35 minutes (excluding stops)
Cost: From 305 GEL

We wish you a warm welcome to Poti!