Public transport in Kutaisi: How to Get Around Easily (2025 Guide)

 

 

Public transport in Kutaisi: Kutaisi, Georgia’s second-largest city, is compact, walkable, and surprisingly well-connected by public transport. Whether you’re a traveler arriving at the international airport or a digital nomad settling in for a few months, understanding how to get around Kutaisi efficiently will make your stay smoother and more affordable. This 2025 guide covers all your transport options: buses, minibuses (marshrutkas), taxis, and more.

 

🚌 City Buses in Kutaisi

 

Kutaisi’s municipal buses are operated by the Kutaisi Transport Company. They’re affordable and reliable for moving around the city. Most routes pass through central landmarks like the Colchis Fountain, Kutaisi Park, and the university area.

• Fare: 1 GEL per ride
• Payment: Pay in cash directly to the driver
• Schedule: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies slightly by route)

Bus stops are marked in Georgian, but you can use Google Maps or the Kutaisi Transport website for updated routes and timetables.

 

🚐 Minibuses (Marshrutkas)

Marshrutkas are small minibuses that operate on fixed routes throughout the city and to nearby villages. They are more frequent than city buses and are commonly used by locals.

• Fare: 1–1.5 GEL within the city
• Payment: Cash only, paid to the driver
• Tips: Try to carry small bills or coins

Look for route numbers displayed on the windshield. Major marshrutka stops are near the central market and the Red Bridge area.

 

🚖 Taxis & Ride-Sharing

 

Taxis are widely available and inexpensive compared to Western standards. Use ride-hailing apps for convenience and transparency.

• Bolt: The most popular ride app in Kutaisi
• Yandex Go: Also available in some areas
• Average fares: 5–10 GEL for most trips within the city

If you take a street taxi, always agree on the price beforehand or ask them to turn on the meter.

 

✈️ Airport Transfers

 

Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) is located about 20 km from the city center. You can reach the city by:

• Minibus 116: Runs between the airport and downtown Kutaisi. Fare: 5 GEL
• Taxi/Bolt: Costs around 25–35 GEL

Plan ahead if arriving at night, as public transport may be limited after 10 PM.

You can also take advantage of the city bus service, and for just 15.00 GEL you’ll be in the center of Kutaisi in only 15 minutes. Look for the blue buses marked «citybus,» like the ones shown below:

 

💡 Tip for Travelers: 

A new shuttle bus service has recently been inaugurated. You can catch it right in front of the arrivals exit, and it will take you to the tourist office in downtown Kuatisi.

Payment options: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the bus station using any credit or debit card.

The schedule for this new service is as follows:

🚲 Cycling and Walking

 

Kutaisi is small and walkable, especially in the city center. Cycling is growing in popularity, but there are limited bike lanes. Some guesthouses offer free bikes for guests.

 

📲 Useful Apps & Resources

• Google maps
• Bolt App
• Moovit – to track buses and marshrutkas

 

Getting around Kutaisi is simple and affordable, but understanding how transport costs fit into your overall budget can make life even easier. To compare everyday expenses across different Georgian cities, take a look at the Cost of Living in Georgia’s Top Cities 2025, which includes Kutaisi, Tbilisi, and Batumi.

 

If you’re planning to move closer to the sea, our Cost of Living in Batumi 2025 guide will help you estimate rent and utilities there. For those curious about transport options in the coastal area, check the Public Transportation in Batumi guide for details on routes and fares. And if you’re working remotely or considering a flexible lifestyle in Georgia, the Digital Nomad in Tbilisi Ultimate Guide offers great insights on living and commuting in the capital.

 

Getting From Tbilisi to Kutaisi by Public Transport

 

If you’re starting your trip in Tbilisi and planning to visit Kutaisi, you’ll find several convenient public transport options. The journey typically takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the mode of travel and traffic conditions.

🚌 Marshrutka (Minibus)

The most common and budget-friendly option is the marshrutka.

• Departure: Didube Bus Station (Tbilisi)

• Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes

• Duration: ~3.5 hours

• Cost: Around 15–20 GEL

• Arrival: Kutaisi Central Bus Station

This is the fastest point-to-point option if you don’t mind a compact ride. It’s direct, but make sure to arrive a little early — buses leave once they’re full.

🚆 Train (Comfortable & Scenic)

Georgia Railway operates comfortable trains to Kutaisi.

• Departure: Tbilisi Central Station

• Duration: ~4–4.5 hours

• Cost: 10–25 GEL depending on class

• Arrival: Rioni Station (just outside Kutaisi)

From Rioni station, you’ll need a local taxi or bus to reach the city center (10–15 minutes, around 8–15 GEL).
Trains are a great option if you prefer a smoother ride or need to work during the journey.

🚗 Shared Taxi or Private Transfer

For convenience and door-to-door travel, you can also opt for a shared or private taxi.

• Duration: ~3 hours

• Cost:

  • Shared taxi: ~25–40 GEL per seat

  • Private car: 120–180 GEL depending on the driver

If you’re traveling in a group or with luggage, this can be a comfortable and cost-effective option.

✈️ Short Flight (Rarely Needed)

Technically, there are occasional flights between Tbilisi and Kutaisi, but they are not recommended due to extra travel time to airports and limited frequency. Overland options are faster and cheaper.

💡 Tip for Travelers

Trains and marshrutkas can fill up during weekends and holidays, so booking or arriving early is recommended. If comfort is your priority, choose the train or a private transfer; for speed and budget travel, the marshrutka is ideal.

🎥 Watch: Best Ways to Travel from Tbilisi to Kutaisi (Updated 2025)
A step-by-step visual guide covering transport options, prices and tips.

 

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