Group tour from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

A Day of Contrasts: Georgia’s Historic and Eerie Sanatoriums from Batumi

Traveling from the lively coast of Batumi into the heart of Georgia’s western region, this guided tour offers a fascinating mix of history, architecture, and local flavor. The 12-hour journey, operated by Budget Georgia Kutaisi, takes you through the charming streets of Kutaisi, a city filled with landmarks and stories, before venturing into the hauntingly beautiful abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo.

What I appreciate most about this experience is how it balances walking tours with historic insights and offbeat exploration. The guide I read about, Goga, is praised for his engaging narration—he brings the history of Georgia and Kutaisi alive with stories and local anecdotes. Plus, the visit to the abandoned Soviet sanatoriums is captivating, offering a glimpse into the eerie, yet visually stunning architecture of the past.

A potential consideration is that the day is quite packed, starting early at 09:00 and ending around 21:00—so it suits travelers who enjoy full schedules and don’t mind a long day on the road. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might feel a bit hurried.

Key points / Takeaways

• Historical walking tour in Kutaisi provides a deep dive into the city’s sights and stories.
• Abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo offer an unusual, atmospheric experience of Soviet-era architecture.
• Authentic local flavor at Kutaisi’s central market, Mtsvane Bazari, where fresh produce and local goods abound.
• Beautiful views and architecture, such as the Mon Plasir arch, the White Bridge, and the Palace of the Golden Marquee, showcase Kutaisi’s charm.
• Expert guides, like Goga, enhance the experience with engaging storytelling and practical tips.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make it easy to plan your adventure.

Exploring the Historic Heart of Kutaisi

Starting at 09:00 from Batumi, the tour kicks off with a walking tour of Kutaisi’s downtown, a city that’s been Georgia’s legislative capital and a hub of culture for centuries. The guide’s commentary provides context about Georgia’s complex history, making the sights not just pretty pictures but stories that stick.

You’ll stroll past the fountain group—a lively spot perfect for snapping photos—then continue to the central park. Here, statues of Sister Ishkhnelebi and the memorial of 9 April memorialize pivotal moments in Georgian history. Passing by the Kutaisi City Hall, the Opera House, and the Mon Plasir arch, you get a sense of the city’s elegant architecture and social life.

One unexpected highlight was the Park of Love, with its romantic sculptures and quiet pathways, and the Golden Marquee Palace, which adds a splash of regal flair. The bustling Mtsvane Bazari market offers a sensory overload of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local specialties—perfect for a quick snack or souvenir shopping.

The walking tour is informative without being overwhelming, and the guide’s insights make each landmark meaningful. As one reviewer mentions, “Goga’s stories really brought Kutaisi alive; it felt like walking with a friend who knew everything about the city.”

Lunch and the Drive to Tskaltubo

After a hearty lunch (included in most packages), the group heads towards Tskaltubo. The drive itself, while lengthy, offers glimpses of Georgia’s countryside, with rolling hills and small villages.

Tskaltubo’s allure lies in its abandoned sanatoriums—once grand spa resorts that now stand silent, cloaked in moss and mystery. The guide explains that these buildings are relics of Soviet occupation, built to serve health travelers from across the USSR.

Visiting Spring #6 and Spring #8

Your first stop is Spring #6, where you can see the classic Soviet-era mineral springs. The guide shares stories of how these springs were thought to have healing powers—though today, the empty pools and dilapidated structures evoke a haunting beauty.

Next, you’ll visit Spring #8, renowned for its extraordinary architecture—an eye-catching, unusual structure that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale more than a sanatorium. This building’s weirdly charming decay is a highlight, and many reviews mention how striking the photographs are here.

Exploring the Sanatoriums of Gelati, Medea, and Druzhba

Moving on, you visit the Gelati Sanatorium, designed for children, with a playground that looks frozen in time and a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the complex’s inner workings. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling health resorts of yesteryear but offers a powerful sense of history.

From there, the tour walks through the Medea Sanatorium and the Druzhba Sanatorium, each with their unique architectural features and eerie atmospheres. Visiting these abandoned sites feels like stepping into a forgotten world, with crumbling facades and overgrown corridors—an experience that’s both unsettling and atmospheric.

End of the Day at the Tskaltubo Train Station

The tour wraps up at the Tskaltubo train station, a nostalgic nod to the Soviet transport hub days. The entire experience, from start to finish, offers a layered view of Georgia’s past—inviting curiosity, reflection, and awe at the scale of these decaying structures.

Transportation, Logistics and Value

The transportation in this tour is comfortable and well-coordinated, with a dedicated bus that handles the 12-hour schedule smoothly. The group size is usually moderate, allowing for a friendly atmosphere and easy conversations.

The price, considering it includes both the walking tour in Kutaisi and visits to the abandoned sanatoriums, offers good value—especially when you factor in the insights from a knowledgeable guide like Goga. The included lunch is a nice perk, giving you a chance to relax and refuel before heading into the more offbeat parts of the day.

Booking options are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of urban exploration and offbeat history. If you’re curious about Georgia’s Soviet past and love atmospheric photography, the sanatoriums alone are worth the trip. It’s also perfect if you want a structured day that covers a lot—without the hassle of planning—it’s a great way to see a lot in one go.

However, if you prefer a slow pace or have mobility concerns, be aware that the day is quite packed, and some sites involve walking over uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Batumi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo offers a compelling blend of cultural sights and haunting architecture. The walking tour in Kutaisi provides a solid introduction to the city’s history and charm, while the visit to abandoned sanatoriums takes you into Georgia’s Soviet-era past—highlighted by striking structures and stories of healing and decay.

The value is notable when you consider the variety of sites, the guide’s knowledge, and the included lunch. It’s a full day, but for those interested in history, architecture, or just unusual landscapes, it’s a memorable experience.

In short, if you’re after an authentic look at Georgia’s layered history and enjoy exploring both lively streets and eerie ruins, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, starting at 09:00 and finishing around 21:00, giving you a full day of sightseeing and exploration.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation from Batumi to Kutaisi, a walking tour in Kutaisi, visits to abandoned sanatoriums in Tskaltubo, and an included lunch.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. However, since it involves a fair amount of walking and exploring uneven, abandoned buildings, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day schedule and some physical activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
This tour is offered in English, with live guides who keep the commentary engaging and informative.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a camera to capture the striking ruins. Also, consider bringing some water and a snack, especially if you want to avoid relying solely on the included lunch.

Is it easy to book and pay?
Yes, with options to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellation, booking is straightforward and flexible.

This full-day excursion offers a genuine taste of Georgia’s diverse appeal—its lively city streets, historic sites, and the surreal beauty of abandoned sanatoriums. It’s a tour that appeals to the curious, the history lover, and those who enjoy a bit of adventure.