Where to Stay in Kutaisi: A Local’s Guide to the Best Areas & Hotels

Looking for a place to stay in Kutaisi, Georgia? This guide covers the city’s central neighbourhoods, their pros and cons, and my pick of the best hotels, guesthouses and apartments for every budget.

If you’ve already started browsing for hotels in Kutaisi, you might have noticed the accommodation scene is much more low-key compared to Tbilisi or Batumi.

The big international hotel chains haven’t really moved in yet (with a few exceptions) – instead, Kutaisi is all about independent boutique hotels, design-focused properties, and old-fashioned family guesthouses.

The city centre is compact and easy to navigate, with most of the best accommodations concentrated in and around the main square and Colchis Fountain. There are a few things to consider before deciding where to base your stay – namely the hilly terrain and proximity to restaurants and bars – but for the most part, you can’t go too wrong.

I have lived in Kutaisi since 2021. In this guide, I share what I’ve learned about the different neighbourhoods along with 20 handpicked accommodations for every travel style.

The best hotels in Kutaisi: Quick picks

Here are my top picks for the best overall places to stay in Kutaisi:

• Best boutique hotel in Kutaisi: Communal Hotel (⭐ 9.2)
• Best design hotel in Kutaisi: Rotel Kutaisi (⭐ 9.3)
• Best central hotel in Kutaisi: Newport Hotel (⭐ 9.1)
• Best hotel in Kutaisi with a view: Hotel Green Town (⭐ 9.2)
• Best guesthouse in Kutaisi: Giorgi’s Homestay (⭐ 9.6)
• Best hostel in Kutaisi: Ruby Hostel (⭐ 9.9)
• Best rural stay: Agro Guesthouse Korena (⭐ 9.5)
• Best special interest hotel near Kutaisi: Legends Tskaltubo Spa Resort (⭐ 7.8)

Kutaisi neighbourhoods & map

Kutaisi is Georgia’s third-largest city – and with a population of only around 150,000 people, it is pretty small and compact. The centre is easy to explore on foot, and there are city buses and Bolt taxis for travelling further afield.

The Rioni River divides Kutaisi in two. The main tourist centre is on the eastern bank, around the Colchis Fountain and Old Town, and this where you’ll find most of the city’s historic architecture, restaurants and bars.

Across the river, there are some interesting areas including Bzholebi, with its lively riverside strip, and Ukimerioni (Gora), the historic hillside neighbourhood crowned by Bagrati Cathedral. Zastava and Balalkhvani are residential districts that also have some nice offerings, while the suburbs further west around the bus station are generally less convenient for visitors.

Old Town & central Kutaisi

Kutaisi doesn’t have a clearly defined ‘Old Town’ as some European cities do. Here, I’m referring to the historic centre around the Colchis Fountain and Central Park. Within this area, the so-called Royal District takes its name from Okros Chardakhi, the former riverside residence of the kings of Imereti. Along the river, there is a historic Jewish Quarter and a ‘French Quarter’ that was traditionally home to the Catholic community.

When I first visited Kutaisi in 2017, I thought this was the entire city – I don’t think I even crossed the river! For visitors, it’s a very convenient base, with the Green Bazaar, museums, and many of Kutaisi’s best restaurants and bars within walking distance.

Bzholebi

Bzholebi is located on the opposite side of the river. Easy to reach on foot via the Red Bridge or White Bridge, it’s so close to the Colchis Fountain that it might as well be part of the Old Town.

This district takes its name from bzhola, the Imeretian word for mulberry tree, which evidently used to grow abundantly here (there are still a few along Tabidze Street). The neighbourhood developed rapidly starting from the 1860s, when traditional wooden houses began giving way to two-storey stone buildings as Kutaisi expanded and modernised.

Today, this is one of Kutaisi’s best areas for dining and nightlife, with a concentration of restaurants and bars along Tabidze Street. Two of my favourites, Mary’s Irish Pub and WILD, are located here, along with Tuta Cafe, Bzholebi restaurant, and my favourite Kutaisi restaurant, Doli. The downside is noise – Tabidze can get a bit loud on weekends, and ongoing construction in parts of the neighbourhood can be an annoyance, too.

Balakhvani

Balakhvani is a small, prestigious district on the Rioni riverside in front of Kutaisi I Railway Station, south of the Old Town and roughly a 10-20 minute walk from the Colchis Fountain. I lived in Balakhvani for a year when I first moved to Kutaisi, so I definitely have a soft spot for this district!

The name comes from the Georgian word balakhovani, meaning ‘grassy place’. The neighbourhood expanded rapidly after the railway arrived in 1877, and Kutaisi’s first multi-storey apartment building was constructed here in 1937. Close to the State University, Balakhvani was developed to house professors and academics – it’s basically the equivalent of Tbilisi’s Vake neighbourhood. The leafy streets are dominated by pastel-coloured Stalinist apartment blocks, and there is also a former Wedding Palace here.

For the purposes of this guide, Balakhvani also includes Tsereteli Street, which runs parallel to the river from behind the State Historical Museum in the centre. This street is an up-and-comer, with several nice riverside restaurants (Story, Dolce) and my favourite cafe, Cinnelle.

Bagrati / Ukimerioni (Gora)

Gora (meaning ‘hill’ in Georgian) is the historic neighbourhood that stretches across the hillside from the turquoise-roofed Bagrati Cathedral all the way to the amusement park. Houses cascade down the steep slopes, offering some of the best city views in Kutaisi, while the narrow, cobbled streets are noticeably quieter and more peaceful compared to Old Town.

Staying here involves a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of Kutaisi and the Lesser Caucasus mountains beyond are definitely worth it. There are multiple staircases you can use as a shortcut – including one at the end of the Chain Bridge – or for accommodations near the amusement park, you can travel by cable car during operating hours. City minibuses come up this way, departing from outside the bazaar.

Long before it became a residential neighbourhood, Ukimerioni was part of Kutaisi’s fortified royal centre. Bagrati Cathedral, completed in 1003, stood alongside a medieval fortress and royal palace, traces of which can still be seen today. It’s very special to hear the cathedral bells ring out on Sunday morning (don’t worry, they don’t start too early!).

Sapichkhia

Sapichkhia is another historic residential neighbourhood, located south-east of the centre. It is quite spread out with some very steep streets, so I’d recommend sticking to the area around Tbilisi Street (one of my favourites for its beautiful architecture) or Kharazov Park. From there, it’s roughly a 20-minute walk to the Colchis Fountain, with city buses running up and down the hill.

The name comes from pichkhi, a word for kindling or brushwood, and before the neighbourhood developed in the 19th century, villagers used to collect firewood from the forests on this hillside to sell in town. Sapichkhia is still very green, with parks, local bakeries and a lovely little Orthodox church. You can also access walking trails from the back streets, including the old railway route towards Gelati and Motsameta monasteries.

Sapichkhia is predominantly residential, with plenty of supermarkets and everyday amenities. If you prefer somewhere quiet and homely, especially for a longer stay, this is a good alternative to the city centre.

Zastava

Zastava is a residential neighbourhood on the western side of Kutaisi, beyond Bzholebi. It centres on Javakhishvili and Tskhinvali Streets, with a mix of traditional houses, newer apartment buildings, and local businesses. It is noticeably less touristy than the Old Town, but there are plenty of amenities.

The name comes from the Russian word for ‘guard post’. Historically, Zastava stretched from the White Bridge towards the old customs checkpoint on the road to Khoni, where duties were collected on goods entering the city. If you’re using Kutaisi as a base for day trips, staying in Zastava puts you a little bit closer to the road that leads to Tskaltubo, Martvili, and the canyons and caves out west.

There are some interesting new businesses here, including Ecolo, a second-hand clothing shop and creative space. From that part of the district, you need around 25–30 minutes to walk to the Colchis Fountain. City buses run along Javakhishvili Street.

Boutique hotels & design hotels in Kutaisi

Communal Kutaisi

Communal Kutaisi is the Bzholebi offering from one of my favourite hotel brands in Georgia (they also have a property in Telavi and two boutique hotels in Tbilisi). Set inside a historic house on Tabidze Street, all 10 rooms are cosy and immaculately designed with Old Kutaisi flourishes. The onsite restaurant, Doli, is second to none, and the hotel breakfast is excellent. The property has an outdoor terrace and a pool as well.

See my full hotel write-up and photos here.

Staff are a little hands-off, with self check-in available after hours. The location is ideal for exploring, just a five-minute walk from White Bridge, with some of Kutaisi’s best restaurants and bars literally on your doorstep. Bear in mind that Tabidze’s 24-hour venues can get lively on weekends, though.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Rotel Kutaisi

Located on the ground floor of a Balakhvani apartment building (the very same building I lived in when I first moved to Kutaisi!), Rotel is a microhotel with a handful of stylish rooms and an intimate natural wine bar, Natural Wine Lovers.

The Fabrika-esque design is something new for Kutaisi, and I must say – even though it’s a departure from the usual ‘Kutaisi style’, it works incredibly well. Rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed, with low lighting and built-in furniture. There are twins and kings, plus a larger family room with bunk beds that sleeps four.

The team behind Rotel also operate Kutaisi’s coolest nightclub, Reflector. Just a five-minute walk from the club, this is a convenient place to stay if you’re in town to party. But equally, the location is great for general sightseeing, with the city centre a short walk or bus ride away.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Hotel Memoire

A tribute to ‘old Kutaisi’, Memoire is a 17-room boutique hotel on Newport Street, footsteps from the Colchis Fountain. Rooms are dark and sultry, decorated with vintage wallpapers, antique furnishings, and other nostalgic touches. Doubles, twins and larger family rooms that sleep up to four people are available, each one themed around a figure from Georgian history or culture.

An English-style breakfast is served in the underground dining room, which doubles as a wine bar.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Proza Hotel & Restaurant

Opened in 2026, Proza is a contemporary 18-room hotel on the western side of the river, walking distance from Bzholebi. Stylish shared spaces are matched with comfortably furnished rooms, some with a balcony. Everything is brand-new and immaculately clean, making this a great choice if you prefer sleek, contemporary accommodation over a more traditional boutique hotel.

The rooftop terrace is a definite highlight, with views over Kutaisi and a restaurant serving Georgian dishes and wood-fired pizza. The location on a busy part of Grishashvili Street is less pedestrian-friendly compared to the prettier historic neighbourhoods. Parking can be tricky, but you’re only around 5-7 minutes on foot from the White Bridge and 10-15 minutes from the Colchis Fountain.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Mid-range hotels in Kutaisi

Newport Hotel

Located inside one of the most beautiful buildings in Kutaisi – the former courthouse dating to 1914 – the baby-blue Newport Hotel is a dependable choice for a central, boutique-style style. Its location right behind the Colchis Fountain, at the cusp of the old Jewish and French quarters, couldn’t be better.

The four-star hotel has 34 rooms and suites, all with nicely appointed Art Deco-style interiors, bright bathrooms, and thoughtful modern comforts. Standard rooms are quite compact at 18–20 square metres, while the larger suites have separate seating areas and bathtubs. Some rooms also have private balconies with city views.

A buffet breakfast is served downstairs at Cafe Newport. There is a lift, and a 24-hour reception. I stayed here for a little treat on my birthday a few years ago and was quite impressed by the service – if you need a late check-in or help with trip logistics, this is a solid choice.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Grand Opera Hotel

With a prime location directly behind the historic Opera Theatre, this four-star hotel occupies a restored 19th-century building. The interiors have a more classic, elegant feel, with plenty of natural light. Junior suites and larger family rooms that sleep up to four are available.

Gallery Terrace, the hotel’s spectacular rooftop restaurant-bar with views over the Opera Theatre and central Kutaisi, is a must-visit. Being right on the main avenue, traffic and occasional rooftop bar noise are worth considering if you’re a light sleeper. Otherwise, this is an excellent option for a comfortable, central stay, with the Green Bazaar and plenty of food options nearby.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Hotel Green Town

Perched atop the hill a few doors down from Bagrati Cathedral, Green Town is a small, 10-room hotel whose biggest asset is the commanding city views from its breakfast terrace. On a clear day, you can see right across the rooftops of Kutaisi towards the mountains.

Rooms are snug but comfortable, with modern bathrooms. A tasty breakfast is served daily, and there’s a garden, a shared lounge, and onsite off-street private parking. I once stayed here when the water was shut off at my apartment for two days (!). Everything was spotlessly clean, and the young staff were very friendly and helpful.

The location is ideal if you want to stay somewhere peaceful, close to the cathedral, but still within walking distance of the centre. Just bear in mind that the return walk is quite steep.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Hotel History

Also in Gora on a side street near Bagrati Cathedral, this is a six-room, family-run property with a more traditional Georgian feel. The owners (my neighbours!) are lovely people, and the warm, personal hospitality is a big part of the appeal.

For travellers who prefer a small, welcoming guesthouse-style experience over a more formal hotel, this is one of my favourite options on the Hill.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Boutique Hotel Tuta

Located on Tabidze Street in the heart of lively Bzholebi, Tuta is a newer 10-room boutique hotel with a popular cafe on the ground floor. The location is excellent for dining and nightlife, and the White Bridge and city centre are a short walk away. Rooms have a contemporary, slightly quirky design, with colourful accents.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Autograph Kutaisi

Autograph is a small, contemporary hotel on Gelati Street in the residential Sapichkhia neighbourhood. Set above the centre of Kutaisi, it offers a quieter alternative to the Old Town. Rooms are bright, spacious and modern, with great bathrooms. There’s also a garden, a breakfast terrace with panoramic views, and free private parking.

The location on Gelati Street is a little further from the main sightseeing area, and the surrounding streets are quite hilly. But the view is worth it.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Guesthouses in Kutaisi

Hotel 1870

Located on quiet Varlamishvili Street – just a four-minute walk from the Colchis Fountain in the centre of the city – Hotel 1870 is a family-run hotel with only four rooms. It has a lovely guesthouse feel, with co-owners Saba and Zurab (who happen to be good friends of ours!) often on-site to welcome guests. If you’re planning a day trip or hiking excursion, Saba also works as a guide.

Set inside a historic one-storey building, the hotel has simple, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. There are doubles and twins, plus a family room with a double bed and bunk beds that sleeps four. Guests get access to a small courtyard garden and a shared kitchen.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Giorgi’s Homestay

This popular guesthouse sits on the hill, just a few minutes’ walk from Bagrati Cathedral. Every second person who comes to visit me in Kutaisi seems to be staying here! I’ve been up to the house a few times myself. The eight rooms are private and fairly simple, with doubles, twins, triples and family options. Some have ensuite bathrooms, while others have shared or private external facilities.

The property has a lovely garden, a large shared balcony, and outdoor seating. There’s also a shared kitchen, free private parking, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Homemade breakfasts are a highlight, as are the opportunities to chat with Giorgi over a glass of homemade wine. For budget-conscious travellers who want a genuine homestay experience rather than a conventional hotel or hostel, this is an excellent choice.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Hostels in Kutaisi

Ruby Hostel

This new hostel’s design-focused aesthetic makes it feel more like a boutique hotel than a traditional backpackers. Choose from six-bed dormitories and private double rooms, some with ensuite bathrooms and private terraces. There’s also a spacious shared kitchen, a communal dining area, outdoor seating, and free private parking.

Owner Begi also runs Ecolo, a second-hand clothing shop and creative space, and Sapovnela, one of my favourite cafe-bars in Kutaisi. They share a second space just a few doors up from the hostel, making it easy to pop out for breakfast or evening drinks in the garden. The residential Zastava neighbourhood is around 30 minutes on foot from the Colchis Fountain or a short bus ride away. There is no doubt in my mind that Ruby is one of the best hotels in Georgia!

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Hostel Rioni

Opening in spring 2026, this hostel is run by Hamish, a Scot who has created a relaxed, community-focused space with regular group activities and plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers. The location on Khandzteli Street is a short walk from the bars and restaurants of Bzholebi.

Accommodation includes an eight-bed mixed dormitory with privacy curtains, individual lights, power sockets and lockers, plus private double rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The hostel is well-equipped, with a spacious communal kitchen, comfortable lounge, coworking area, and a small garden.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Bao Hostel

Vintage furniture and cosy communal spaces give this long-running hostel a homely atmosphere. Accommodation includes private double and twin rooms, plus an eight-bed mixed dormitory. The private rooms have ensuite bathrooms, while dorm beds have privacy curtains, reading lights and lockers. The shared lounge, well-equipped kitchen and covered balcony are beautifully decorated, with plenty of space to relax and socialise.

The hostel is on Tsereteli Street, just five minutes’ walk from the Colchis Fountain. The Kutaisi Historical Museum is around the corner.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Kutaisi apartments & Airbnbs

Studio Apartment in the Heart of Kutaisi – Cosy one-bedroom apartment in the centre of the city, managed by our friend Ana.

Modern Apartment with City Views – Designer one-bedroom apartment in Sapichkhia with panoramic city views.

Cozy White House near White Bridge – Spacious one-bedroom apartment in Bzolebi.

Kutaisi Glow – Minimalist two-bedroom apartment with a balcony in Balakhvani.

Art Residence Ukimerion – Chic one-bedroom apartment on the hill near the amusement park.

Handmade Apartment with Private Garden – Beautiful one-bedroom apartment in Zastava, with a private garden, terrace and parking.

Where to stay near Kutaisi Airport

Kutaisi International Airport is located around 30 minutes’ drive west of the city, near the village of Kopitnari. Unlike Tbilisi Airport which has an Ibis, there isn’t an airport hotel near the terminal.

I recommend staying in central Kutaisi rather than near the airport. There are a handful of guesthouses on the main road closer to Kopitnari – but given the short drive to the city centre, there is really no reason to stay close to the airport.

It is very easy to travel between the airport and the city either by Bolt taxi (approx. 25 GEL) or by using the 5 GEL shuttle bus. Full details here in my Kutaisi Airport guide.

If you’re arriving on a late-night flight, choose a hotel with 24-hour reception or an apartment with self check-in. For early-morning departures, you can schedule a Bolt through the app or arrange a private transfer with GoTrip.

Where to stay outside Kutaisi

If you have your own car, here are a couple of my favourite accommodations outside Kutaisi.

Agro Guesthouse Korena (15 mins from Kutaisi)

Located in the village of Gelati, a short walk from the famous monastery, Agro Guesthouse Korena offers a taste of traditional Imeretian hospitality. Hosted by Maia, grandma Dali and their family, the property has cosy rooms with private bathrooms and mountain views, plus a beautiful 200-year-old wooden oda house filled with antiques and traditional objects.

The real highlight here is the food. Guests can enjoy generous homemade Imeretian meals, taste wines from the family cellar, and join cooking masterclasses to learn how to prepare khachapuri, lobio and other regional specialities. The peaceful countryside setting makes this an excellent option for families or anyone who prefers to be outside the city centre.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Legends Tskaltubo Spa Resort (20 mins from Kutaisi)

One of my favourite hotels in Georgia, this atmospheric, blast-from-the-past hotel literally allows you to step back in time to Tskaltubo’s heyday.

This is the only sanatorium that has been partially restored. Rooms are basic but comfortable and the breakfast is underwhelming – but it’s all about the location and the experience. Be sure to take a tour of the property to check out the old ballroom and ‘Stalin’s private quarters’.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

Porto Gumati (15 mins from Kutaisi)

Just 15 minutes from the centre, this new complex of cabins and bungalows has a picturesque setting on the Rioni River. There is a swimming pool and a sauna, and you can utilise the lake. The property has barbeque facilities, and breakfast comes included.

→ Check prices & availability on Booking.com

More Kutaisi travel resources

• The best things to do in Kutaisi in 1-3 days, a suggested itinerary
• Alternative things to do in Kutaisi, offbeat attractions & hidden gems
• Kutaisi day trips, the best excursions from the city for culture & adventure
• The best Kutaisi restaurants, where to eat in Kutaisi
• The best Kutaisi cafes, where to find good coffee
• The best Kutaisi bars, for wine & live music
• How to get from Kutaisi Airport to the city centre, detailed guide
• Visiting Kutaisi in winter, cold-weather activities & Christmas festivities
• Visiting the caves & canyons around Kutaisi, a popular day excursion
• The best wineries near Kutaisi, where to do a wine tasting
• Guide to visiting Tskaltubo from Kutaisi, abandoned sanatoriums
• Guide to visiting Chiatura from Kutaisi, Soviet-era cable cars