Discover Rustavi

Rustavi offers several starting points for planning a trip: archaeological and architectural heritage, museum collections, parkland, crafts, a folk festival and motorsport. If you are looking for a hotel in Rustavi, your main reason for travelling can help determine which topics you explore in more depth. The following points of reference help distinguish cultural interests from time-specific activities.

History spanning early cultural layers and medieval traces

Rustavi’s archaeological and architectural heritage includes the remains of a medieval town, as well as a fortress and a citadel. It also includes cultural layers from the Bronze Age, the Early Iron Age and the Hellenistic period. Its historical span therefore extends from early cultural layers to medieval traces of urban life. The ruins of Rustavi Fortress are still visible today. Those interested in the city’s history can thus explore archaeological periods as well as a visible connection to the fortress complex.

Getting oriented along the Mtkvari

The Mtkvari divides Rustavi into areas on its left and right banks. The river is therefore an easy geographical reference point when finding your way around the city.

Collections and special exhibits

The collections of the Rustavi History Museum include ceramics, glassware, tools, jewellery, stamps, numismatic and ethnographic materials, and modern art. The broad range goes beyond any single type of object, bringing together different materials and subject areas. On the second floor, the museum also displays paintings made using spiderwebs instead of paint and pencil. Since collections can change through new acquisitions and exhibition changes, check before your trip whether this special display will be on view during your visit.

Riparian woodland, a lake and leisure in the city park

Rustavi’s riparian woodland is part of Rustavi Culture and Recreation Park, which also contains an artificial lake. Facilities for exercise include cycling routes and basketball, football and volleyball courts. The park also has an open-air amphitheatre. The woodland and lake shape its natural character, while the cycling routes and courts provide opportunities for sport. As facilities may change due to maintenance, it is advisable to check their current condition before visiting.

Crafts and festival dates

Exhibitions and sales of contemporary works by local craftspeople are held in Rustavi. The range includes feltwork and weaving, ceramics and tapestries, as well as carpets, runners and cloisonné enamel. Since these activities may be seasonal or tied to specific events, check the dates against your travel period if you are particularly interested.

Rustavkalakoba is held in Rustavi in mid-September as a folk festival celebrating the city’s history. The exact dates and programme may vary. If the festival is the reason for your trip, check the dates for your planned travel period in advance.

Motorcycling on the main track

The Rustavi International Motorpark offers the use of its main track for motorcycles. This is separate from the leisure facilities at Rustavi Culture and Recreation Park. Before your trip, check whether motorcycle use will be available on your chosen date.

Discover more destinations: Manglisi, Bolnisi.

Return to the regional travel overview: Kvemo Kartli.