Kutaisi is Georgia's second-largest city, the former capital of the Imeretian Kingdom. It sits on the Rioni River, 230 km west of Tbilisi. The climate is humid subtropical: summers reach 38–40°C, winters bring occasional frost and snow. The city itself isn't a major tourist draw – the architecture is mostly Soviet-era, and the compact centre can be walked in a couple of hours. The real value lies in its proximity to Gelati Monastery, Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon, and the abandoned Soviet spa towns of Tskaltubo and Chiatura.
Kutaisi is the country's main low-cost hub: David the Builder Airport (KUT) handles Wizz Air and Ryanair flights from 27+ European cities. From the airport to the centre it's 14 km – Georgian Bus costs 5 GEL, a taxi 20–30 GEL. Marshrutkas to Tbilisi run for 20 GEL (4 hours); the train is 14 GEL (5–6 hours). Half a day is enough for the city itself; budget 2–3 days to cover canyons, caves, and Motsameta Monastery. For day trips beyond the city, it's easier to rent a car – public transport to natural sites is infrequent.
