The distance between Tbilisi and Kutaisi in Georgia is approximately 132-143 miles (213-230 kilomtres), with travel time ranging from 3 to 4.5 hours depending on your chosen transport method. The new Rikoti Highway with 49 tunnels and 88 bridges was officially completed in December 2025, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities.
Distance and travel time
The route between the two cities passes through scenic areas including Gori, Khashuri, and Zestafoni. Average travel time by private car is 3-4 hours, by train 3.5 hours, and by bus or marshrutka approximately 4 hours.
Kutaisi Airport is located further west from the city center, with the distance from the airport to Tbilisi being around 145 miles (234 kilometres).
Train from Tbilisi to Kutaisi
Rioni Station
Train is the most comfortable and safe way to travel between the cities. Three daily trains depart from Rioni Station to Tbilisi:
- a morning train around 9am
- a midday train
- an evening train around 7:30pm.
These trains originate in Poti, Ozurgeti, and Zugdidi respectively, stopping at Rioni on their way to the capital.
Key details:
- Travel time: 3.5 hours
- Cost: 14 GEL (second class), 26 GEL (first class)
- Amenities: Air conditioning, power outlets in first class, toilets
- Booking: Online via railway.ge or tkt.ge
Rioni Station is located about 6 miles (10 kilometres) from Kutaisi city centre, accessible by city bus #3 (60 tetri) or taxi (8-10 GEL). There is no dining car on board, so bring water and snacks.
Khachapuri vendors often sell food on the platform at Khashuri Station.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Safe and relatively comfortable with restroom facilities
- Clear schedule with ability to book tickets online
- First class offers extra legroom and power outlets
Cons:
- Long journey time
- Limited space between seats
- No designated space for large suitcases
- Weak internet connection and mobile signal
Kutaisi International Airport Station
Since May 2022, all east-west trains stop at Kutaisi International Airport Station in Kopitnari, about 14 miles (22 kilometres) from Kutaisi city center. There are 2-5 double-level Stadler “fast” trains daily from the Airport Station, taking around 3.5 hours to reach Tbilisi Central. These trains originate in Batumi and continue to the capital non-stop.
Key Details:
- Travel time: 3.5 hours
- Cost: 33 GEL (second class), 71 GEL (first class)
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, power outlets
However, these trains are significantly more expensive if starting from Kutaisi city, as you need to pay for a taxi to the airport station (30 GEL), bringing total costs to 60 GEL minimum and total travel time to 4.5-5 hours. The trains are often full and cluttered with luggage.
Arriving in Tbilisi
All trains terminate at Tbilisi Central Railway Station, located adjacent to Station Square Metro, approximately 3 miles (5 kilometres) north of Freedom Square. You can take the metro (1 GEL) or book a taxi (8-10 GEL to Freedom Square).
Clean bathrooms are available on the top level of the station (1 GEL, card payment accepted).
Marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi to Kutaisi
Marshrutka vans are a budget-friendly option for travelling between the cities. Vans operated by Imeritrans depart from Kutaisi every 30 minutes starting from 6am, with the last vans leaving at 9pm.
Key details:
- Travel time: 4-4.5 hours
- Cost: 20 GEL
- Departure point in Tbilisi: Didube Bus Terminal
- Departure point in Kutaisi: Central Bus Station near McDonald’s
Minibuses depart from Didube Station in Tbilisi every hour from 8am to 8pm. There is no fixed schedule, and if all seats are filled, the minibus may leave earlier.
You cannot book tickets or reserve seats in advance. Payment is made on-site in cash.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Frequent departures (20+ services daily)
Cons:
- Can be stuffy, especially in summer
- Safety concerns with aggressive driving styles
- No seatbelts available
- Noisy environment
- Limited luggage space
- Not recommended for travel after dark
Kutaisi Central Bus Station
The station is located on Chavchavadze Avenue near McDonald’s and Grand Mall shopping center, about 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometres) from the Colchis Fountain. City bus #1 from Colchis Fountain (60 tetri, card payment only) can take you there, or a taxi costs around 5 GEL.
The ticket desk is located on the corner near the coffee stand, and payment is by cash only.
Coach bus from Tbilisi to Kutaisi
Coach buses offer a good compromise between comfort and affordability. City Bus operates at least three coaches daily from Kutaisi city to Tbilisi, including:
- an early morning bus around 3am
- a day bus around 11am
- an evening bus around 6:30pm
Key details:
- Travel time: 4 hours
- Cost: 30 GEL
- Departure in Kutaisi: Chavchavadze Avenue in front of Youth Park
- Arrival in Tbilisi: Central Bus Station Ortachala
These are large 56-seater coaches with undercarriage luggage storage, comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and USB or two-prong charging sockets. The journey includes one or two 10-minute rest stops in Zestafoni/Terjola/Gori.
Airport coaches
Georgian Bus, Omnibus, and Metro Georgia operate coach buses from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi. These buses depart as flights land, and the driver will wait if the flight is delayed.
Tickets cost 25 GEL one-way. In Tbilisi, Georgian Bus terminates behind Central Railway Station, while Omnibus and Metro terminate at Ortachala Bus Station.
Private transfer
Private transfer is the fastest way to travel between Kutaisi and Tbilisi, with travel time as little as 2.5-3 hours. This is a door-to-door service available 24/7.
You can make unlimited rest and photo stops during the transfer, or build a multi-stop itinerary for sightseeing along the way.
Key details:
- Travel time: 3-3.5 hours
- Cost: From 230 GEL per car
- Service: Door-to-door, available 24/7
- Payment: Cash at the end of the trip
The price is fixed upon booking and won’t change, covering direct transfers or multi-stop itineraries. All cars have air conditioning, working seatbelts, and child car seats are available. Drivers are required to observe road safety practices.
Pros:
- Fastest option
- Flexible scheduling and punctuality
- Safe with vetted drivers
- Comfortable with ample luggage space
- Can make scenic stops along the way
Cons:
- More expensive than train or minibus
- Currently cash payment only
Carsharing with Getmancar
For those who prefer to drive themselves, carsharing is an excellent option. Getmancar operates in Georgia, providing convenient car rental services through a smartphone app.
This gives you complete flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops along the scenic route.
Key details:
- Travel time: 3+ hours depending on driving style
- Service: Available through mobile app
- Flexibility: Travel on your own schedule with unlimited stops
The drive to Kutaisi is scenic, offering opportunities to visit roadside restaurants and attractions. The journey passes through beautiful landscapes, with the new Rikoti Highway making the drive smoother than before.
Pros:
- Comfortable with vehicle choice
- Ample luggage space
- No strangers in the car
- Complete flexibility for stops and sightseeing
Cons:
- Requires adaptation to local driving style
- Can be exhausting on winding mountain roads
- Requires constant concentration
Best way to travel
The train from Rioni Station to Tbilisi Central is recommended as the best overall option. Travel time is comparable to road transport without worrying about traffic, tickets are affordable (same or less than marshrutka), and these older trains are more comfortable than the new airport trains.
Train travel is generally safer than road travel in Georgia. If you have something against trains, the City Bus coach is the next best alternative.
Transport Options Overview
| Transport Method | Travel Time | Cost | Frequency | Booking | Best For |
| Train (Rioni Station) | 3.5 hours | 14-26 GEL | 3 times daily | Online or at station | Budget travellers seeking comfort and safety |
| Train (Airport Station) | 3.5 hours | 33-71 GEL | 2-5 times daily | Online | Airport arrivals only |
| Marshrutka | 4-4.5 hours | 20 GEL | Every 30 min | At station (cash) | Budget travellers with flexible schedules |
| Coach Bus (City Bus) | 4 hours | 30 GEL | 3 times daily | Online or at station | Comfortable budget travel |
| Coach Bus (Airport) | 4 hours | 25 GEL | As flights land | Online or at airport | Airport transfers |
| Private Transfer | 3-3.5 hours | From 230 GEL/car | 24/7 on demand | Online | Groups, families, those valuing comfort |
| Carsharing (Getmancar) | 3+ hours | Varies | On demand | Mobile app | Independent travellers wanting flexibility |
