Day tour from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo

Explore Georgia’s Hidden Soviet Treasures on a Day Trip from Tbilisi

This day tour from Tbilisi offers a compelling look at Georgia’s Soviet past through visits to abandoned sanatoriums in Tskaltubo and a lively walking tour of Kutaisi. Priced with a focus on flexibility, the tour lasts approximately 14 hours and is suitable for travelers eager to explore offbeat historical sites with a knowledgeable guide. The tour is organized by Budget Georgia Kutaisi and boasts a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, emphasizing informative guiding and fascinating architecture.

Starting at 09:00 from Tbilisi’s office, this tour combines city sightseeing, history lessons, and exploration of eerie Soviet-era sanatoriums. The tour’s pace is designed to give a comprehensive experience, though it is a long day with lots of walking and driving. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy architecture, history, and unique sights, though those with mobility concerns should consider the amount of walking involved.

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Key Points

• Full-day trip lasting approximately 14 hours, departing from Tbilisi at 09:00
• Visits Kutaisi’s city center landmarks plus the abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo
• Includes a guided walking tour of Kutaisi, highlighting soviet architecture and cultural sites
• Explores Spring #6 and Spring #8, showcasing unique Soviet-era spring complexes
• Tour is led by experienced guides who provide insights into Georgia’s history
• Tour ends in Tbilisi around 22:00, with flexible cancellation policies

Starting Point and Schedule in Tbilisi

The tour begins at 09:00 from the organizer’s office in Tbilisi. The day starts with a walking tour through Kutaisi’s downtown area, giving an overview of the city’s history and architecture. The group visits central spots such as the fountain group, central park with the statue of sister Ishkhnelebi, and the memorial of 9 April. The route continues past the Kutaisi city hall, the Opera house, and the Mon Plasir arch.

Following this, the tour passes by the first gymnasium, stops at the white bridge, and walks through the Park of Love. The Golden Marquee Palace is another notable highlight during this city exploration. Afterward, there is a lunch break before heading to Tskaltubo for the second part of the day.

Visiting Tskaltubo’s Abandoned Sanatoriums and Springs

The journey to Tskaltubo is a key feature, where the tour explores Soviet-era sanatoriums, known for their bizarre architecture and eerie atmosphere. The first stop is Spring #6, where the guide discusses Soviet occupation and its impact on Georgia. This spring is part of the extensive Tskaltubo spring complex, famous during the Soviet era for health tourism.

Next, the group visits Spring #8, which stands out for its most unusual architecture among the Tskaltubo springs. The sanatorium Gelati is a highlight, built specifically for children and featuring an old playground and a viewpoint overlooking the interior structures. The tour continues on foot to the Medea sanatorium, then the Druzhba sanatorium, each showcasing post-apocalyptic architecture that evokes a haunting sense of history.

Exploring the Tskaltubo Sanatoriums and Their Architecture

The abandoned sanatoriums in Tskaltubo are what truly set this tour apart. Their bizarre, almost surreal architecture provides a visual narrative of the Soviet health tourism era. The buildings look next-level bizarre—some have a post-apocalyptic vibe that makes for great photo opportunities. The Gelati sanatorium, built specifically for children, is especially notable, offering both historical context and visual intrigue.

The interior views from the sanatoriums reveal old construction and playgrounds, giving a sense of a once-bustling health resort now frozen in time. The viewpoint over the sanatoriums offers a panoramic perspective of the area’s decay and grandeur, which many find both eerily atmospheric and fascinating.

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The Kutaisi City Walking Tour Highlights

The city walk in Kutaisi is a lively segment, led by guides who share stories about Georgia’s history and local culture. Walking past city hall, the opera house, and Mon Plasir arch, visitors get a sense of Kutaisi’s architectural diversity and cultural significance. The central market, Mtsvane Bazari, offers a glimpse into local life, with stalls selling fresh produce and traditional goods.

The statue of sister Ishkhnelebi and the memorial of 9 April are key historical markers that help explain Georgia’s past struggles and resilience. The Golden Marquee Palace and the Park of Love provide contrasting sights—one showcasing modern architecture and the other a romantic green space.

Tskaltubo’s Spring #6 and Spring #8: The Soviet Legacy

The Soviet springs in Tskaltubo serve as a visual reminder of a once-bustling health resort during the Soviet era. The guide shares insights into how the complexes operated and the legacy of Soviet occupation. Spring #6 is a typical stop, where the soviet influence is palpable through the architecture and layout.

Spring #8 is particularly notable for its architecture, which many consider the most unusual in the area. The buildings’ design evokes an atmosphere of decay and history, making it a compelling location for photo enthusiasts. The gelati sanatorium adds a child-focused aspect to the exploration, with old playgrounds and views that evoke a sense of haunting nostalgia.

Practical Details and Logistics

This 14-hour tour includes guided transportation from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo, with live guides in English and Georgian. The meeting point is at the tour provider’s office in Tbilisi, and the return is scheduled around 22:00 in Tbilisi, making it a full-day commitment. The tour is flexible in booking, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled date and pay later options for added flexibility.

Expect a fair amount of walking, especially during the city tour and visits to the sanatoriums. The abandoned buildings are accessible but may require careful footing. The tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in Georgia’s Soviet past.

Why This Tour Offers a Unique Experience

What makes this day trip stand out is its combination of urban sightseeing and exploration of abandoned sanatoriums. The guides’ expertise ensures you gain insights into Georgia’s history and architecture, especially the Soviet influence on Tskaltubo’s health resorts. The visual appeal of the decaying sanatoriums offers both photographic opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time.

While it’s a long day, the pace is manageable, and the diverse stops keep the experience engaging. The reviews praise the warmth and knowledge of the guides, especially their ability to share stories that bring the architecture and history to life.

Final Thoughts on the Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo Tour

This full-day journey provides an immersive experience for those keen on Soviet history, architecture, and Georgia’s regional charm. The abandoned sanatoriums are genuinely eerie and fascinating, offering a rare glimpse into a forgotten era. The city tour complements this with local landmarks and cultural insights.

The long duration and walking involved mean that participants should be prepared for a full schedule. However, the guides’ engaging narration and the chance to see hidden Soviet relics make it worthwhile. If you’re interested in history with a visual twist, this tour is a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, guided transportation from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Tskaltubo is included in the tour.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting at 09:00 and returning around 22:00.

Are the sanatoriums accessible for all visitors?
The sanatoriums are abandoned buildings with uneven surfaces; visitors should be comfortable with walking on potentially uneven terrain.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and Georgian to accommodate different visitors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Is food included during this tour?
The tour includes a lunch break, but specifics about included meals are not detailed; it’s advised to prepare for some independent eating.

What makes the sanatorium architecture special?
They feature bizarre, post-apocalyptic designs, which are eerily atmospheric and unlike typical buildings, making them photo-worthy.

Would this tour suit someone interested in architecture?
Absolutely, the architecture of the sanatoriums offers unique photographic and historical interest.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the abandoned buildings may require caution, and the long day may be less ideal for young children or those with mobility concerns.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides provide informative commentary, share stories about Georgia’s history, and ensure the group is engaged throughout the day.

Does this tour include visits to other attractions in Kutaisi?
Yes, the tour covers city landmarks, central park, statues, city hall, and market, alongside the sanatorium visits.

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