If you're planning a trip to Georgia, you'll likely fly into Kutaisi International Airport. Located in the western part of the country, Kutaisi Airport is about 230 km away from the capital city of Tbilisi. While it's not the main airport in Georgia, it's become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the low-cost airlines that operate there. In this guide, we'll take a look at the different transportation options available to help you get in and out of Kutaisi Airport.
Option 1: Taxi
One of the most convenient ways to get from Kutaisi Airport to your destination is by taxi. Taxis are readily available outside of the airport terminal, and the ride to the city center of Kutaisi takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The cost of the ride is around 20-25 GEL (roughly $6-8 USD), but it's always a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before getting in.
If you're heading to Tbilisi, the taxi ride will take around 3-4 hours and cost approximately 100-120 GEL (roughly $30-40 USD). While this is more expensive than taking a marshrutka (more on that later), it's a more comfortable and convenient option, especially if you're traveling with a lot of luggage.
One thing to keep in mind when taking a taxi in Georgia is that not all taxi drivers use meters. It's important to negotiate the price before getting in the taxi to avoid any surprises at the end of the ride. It's also a good idea to have small bills on hand, as some taxi drivers may not have change for larger bills.
Option 2: Marshrutka
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, taking a marshrutka is a good choice. Marshrutkas are shared minivans that operate throughout Georgia, and they're a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike. To get to the marshrutka station from the airport, you'll need to take a taxi or walk about 1.5 km.
From Kutaisi, marshrutkas depart for Tbilisi every 30 minutes or so, and the ride takes around 4-5 hours. The cost of the ride is approximately 20-25 GEL (roughly $6-8 USD), making it a much cheaper option than taking a taxi. However, keep in mind that marshrutkas can be cramped and uncomfortable, especially if you're traveling with a lot of luggage.
One thing to keep in mind when taking a marshrutka is that they can be unpredictable. They may not always leave on time, and they may make unexpected stops along the way. It's also important to note that marshrutkas may not have air conditioning, so it can get hot and stuffy inside.
Option 3: Bus
Another budget-friendly option is taking a bus from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi. The bus station is located about 2 km away from the airport, so you'll need to take a taxi or walk to get there. Buses depart for Tbilisi several times a day, and the ride takes around 4-5 hours. The cost of the ride is approximately 20-25 GEL (roughly $6-8 USD).
While taking a bus is a cheap option, it's not the most comfortable. Buses can be crowded and noisy, and the ride can be bumpy and uncomfortable. However, if you're on a tight budget and don't mind roughing it a bit, taking a bus is a good choice.
Option 4: Private Transfer
If you're looking for a more comfortable and convenient option, booking a private transfer is a good choice. Private transfers can be arranged in advance through your hotel or a travel agency, and the driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your destination.
Private transfers are more expensive than taking a taxi, marshrutka, or bus, but they offer a more comfortable and hassle-free experience. You'll have a dedicated driver who will take you directly to your destination, and you won't have to worry about navigating public transportation or haggling with taxi drivers.
Tips for Getting Around in Georgia
Once you've arrived at your destination, you'll need to figure out how to get around. Here are a few tips to help you navigate Georgia's transportation system:
- Use public transportation: Georgia has a good public transportation system, including buses, marshrutkas, and trains. Using public transportation is a cheap and convenient way to get around.
- Download a transportation app: There are several transportation apps available in Georgia, including Yandex.Taxi and Bolt. These apps allow you to easily hail a taxi or order a private transfer.
- Learn some basic Georgian: While many people in Georgia speak English, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Georgian. This can be especially helpful when taking a taxi or marshrutka, as the drivers may not speak English.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Like any country, Georgia has its share of scams and pickpockets. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Conclusion
Getting in and out of Kutaisi Airport is relatively easy, thanks to the various transportation options available. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a more comfortable and convenient one, there's a transportation option that will suit your needs. By considering the different options and planning ahead, you can ensure that your trip to Georgia gets off to a smooth start. And once you've arrived at your destination, using public transportation and transportation apps can help you get around with ease.