Batumi

Batumi, Georgia's second-largest city, sits on the Black Sea coast in the country's southwest. This port city combines centuries-old buildings with modern high-rises. You can walk through historic streets, relax on pebble beaches, and eat Adjarian dishes. Some of Batumi's unique sights include the moving Ali and Nino statue, the Alphabetic Tower, and the extensive Botanical Gardens.

Getting to Batumi

You can reach Batumi by air, land, or sea. The city's international airport connects to several European and Middle Eastern cities. If you're already in Georgia, take a train from Tbilisi - the journey takes about 4 hours and passes through mountains and valleys. Ferries also link Batumi to ports in Ukraine and Turkey.

Exploring Old Batumi

Walk through Old Batumi's narrow streets to see 19th-century architecture. You'll find colorful wooden houses with detailed balconies next to grand European-style buildings. Visit the Piazza, a central square surrounded by buildings with mosaic facades and filled with cafes and restaurants. On Europa Square, watch the Astronomical Clock chime every hour, accompanied by moving figurines.

Contemporary Architecture

Batumi's skyline has changed significantly since 2007. The Alphabetic Tower, shaped like a DNA helix, displays all 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet in neon lights at night. For views of the city and sea, ride the Argo Cable Car to Anuria Mountain. The most eye-catching modern sculpture is Ali and Nino - two 7-meter-high figures that move through each other, representing love between different cultures.

Batumi Boulevard

This 7-kilometer promenade along the Black Sea is a central part of Batumi. Palm trees, cafes, and sculptures line the walkway. You'll see people enjoying the sea breeze, especially during sunset. The boulevard also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.

Batumi Botanical Gardens

Located 9 kilometers north of the city center, these gardens cover 108 hectares and contain plants from nine phyto-geographic areas. Walking trails lead you through bamboo groves, past tall sequoias, and to spots overlooking the Black Sea. In spring, you'll see blooming rhododendrons and magnolias.

Adjarian Cuisine

Try Adjarian khachapuri, a boat-shaped bread filled with cheese and topped with a raw egg and butter. For seafood, there's tskali kibo, a local crayfish dish. Visit the Batumi Fish Market to see the day's catch and have it cooked on the spot at nearby restaurants. Chacha, a strong grape brandy, is often served before and after meals in Georgia.

Nightlife and Casinos

Batumi comes alive after dark. People often call it the "Las Vegas of the Black Sea" because of its many casinos. Even if you don't gamble, you can enjoy the neon-lit buildings. For other nightlife options, try the bars and clubs along the boulevard or in the old town.

Day Trips from Batumi

Use Batumi as a base to explore the Adjara region. Visit the Gonio Fortress, an ancient Roman fortification just south of the city. Mtirala National Park has hiking trails through dense forests and past waterfalls. In winter, you can go skiing at the Goderdzi Resort, about two hours from Batumi.

Best Time to Visit

Batumi has a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Visit between May and October to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. However, July and August can be crowded and hot. For fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, consider visiting in spring or fall.

Where to Stay

Batumi has accommodations for every budget. For high-end options, try the Radisson Blu or Hilton. For mid-range prices, consider the Sky Tower Hotel with its rooftop bar. Budget travelers will find several hostels in the city center, like Hostel Everyday, which has both dorms and private rooms.