How to get from Tbilisi (or Borjomi) to Kutaisi: marshrutka, shared taxi, or train?

Note on the train: it doesn't arrive at central Kutaisi but stops at Kutaisi International Airport station or Rioni station — from either you still need to get into the city.

There's a comfortable bus option (not a marshrutka) — passengers were given a drink and snack during the ride, like on a plane; preferred over the minibus.

The train from Tbilisi to Kutaisi is a comfortable option with kids — more space than a minibus. It departs from Tbilisi Central Station, takes about 4-5 hours, with tickets starting around 10-15 GEL depending on class.

Shared taxis to Kutaisi are found at the Ortachala bus station in Tbilisi — drivers fill up the car and leave once enough passengers show up. Cost is around 15-20 GEL per person, and the trip takes 3-4 hours.

Marshrutkas (minibuses) to Kutaisi also depart from Didube bus station in Tbilisi, cost around 10 GEL, travel time 3-4 hours.

There's also a direct marshrutka from Borjomi to Kutaisi — it departs from the Borjomi bus station, costs around 10-15 GEL, and takes about 2.5 hours.