Do you know about this hidden gem on the coast of the Black Sea? Are you about to plan a trip but wondering what to do in Batumi when you get there? Well, you’ve just come to the right place! In this full Batumi guide, we will review virtually anything a tourist needs to know about this city.
Scenic beaches, lively nightlife, and many exciting activities are the highlights of things to do Batumi. We’ll also review some details on how to get there, the best places to stay, and other practical tips for visitors. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Where Is Batumi? Things You Need to Know About Batumi
In this section of our Batumi guide, we’ll review some general information about Batumi, such as its location and background. This is your starting point if you don’t know anything about Batumi other than its name.
Where Is Batumi Georgia on Map?
First things first, where is Batumi? Batumi is the second largest city in Georgia, right after Tbilisi. It is located on the Southwestern side of Georgia, on the coast of the Black Sea.
Batumi Guide: Historical Background
We’re not the first people who are passionate about Batumi. For millennials, Batumi has been a favorite spot for empires. And it’s because of the city’s unique and strategic location. Therefore, this popular port has a rich and diverse history. A history that goes all the way back to ancient Greece.
- Batumi during the Ancient Greece era
The first ever records of Batumi belong to the 4th Century BC. Back then, Batumi was a part of a Greek colony named Colchis. If you’re a bit of a mythology fan or have heard stories of Greek mythology, then you must be familiar with the tale of Jason and the Argonauts. Colchis is the region Jason explored in search of the Golden Fleece.
The name Batumi also comes from the Greek word “Batus” meaning deep. It probably refers to the natural setting of Batumi.
- Roman and Byzantine Batumi
From the 2nd century AD to the 16th century AD, Batumi was ruled by Romans and then the Byzantine Empire. During this period, Batumi flourished as a vital port in the region.
- Batumi during the Ottoman Empire
From the 16th Century to the late 19th Century, Ottoman Turks took over the city. They continued expanding Batumi as an important trading hub on the Eastern coast of the Black Sea. Besides, during the Ottoman era, Islam became the prominent religion in Batumi. This long-lasting influence is still visible in Batumi. Today, over one-third of Batumi’s population are Muslims.
- Batumi during Russia and the Soviet Union
In the second half of the 19th century, the Russian Empire conquered Batumi. Russia invested heavily in Batumi and made it a free port. These changes attracted many new traders to Batumi and contributed to the city’s prosperity. Later on, during the Soviet era, Batumi saw rapid industrialization. Besides, the oil refining industry continued to grow. What did these developments mean for Batumi? Well, money!
- Modern-day Batumi
After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Georgia became an independent country. And right after that, Batumi kind of became part of Georgia. I said kind of because of almost 13 years of political instability. However, fast forward to 2004, Batumi reintegrated with Georgia and focused on some “21st century” developments.
And Batumi slowly turned into the city we know today. Construction of new skyscrapers, luxury hotels, casinos, and other attractions have made Batumi a high-class tourist destination worldwide. Now, there are a lot of things to do in Batumi for any visitors.
What Is Batumi’s Weather Like?
Do you want the short answer? Rainy! In fact, it’s the wettest city in Georgia. So, don’t forget to pack your umbrellas on your way to Batumi. And check what to do in Batumi when it rains.
As you probably guessed, Batumi has humid weather. This subtropical climate blesses Batumi with mild winters and not-so-hot summers. The average temperature during summer is between 22°C and 30°C and cools down to a range of 5°C to 12°C in winter.
What Is Batumi Currency? And Other Batumi Guide Useful Information
Batumi’s currency is Georgian Lari (GEL). Each USD equals 2.72 Georgian Lari, but that rate can change over time.
Now, let’s review some other details. Here is a list of all the essential information you need to know about Batumi:
- Language: The official language of Batumi is Georgian. However, Russian, English, and Turkish are widely spoken in Batumi.
- Population: Near 170,000 people. Metro area population: 300,000
- Location: Southeast of Georgia, on the coast of the Black Sea, Near the Turkey border.
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
- Religion: Orthodox Christianity and Islam
- Transportation: Batumi has an international airport. Besides, it has train rails accessible from Tbilisi and other Georgian cities. Buses, taxis, and car rentals are the main means of transportation inside the city.
- Top Attractions: Batumi Boulevard, Ali and Nino Statue, Batumi Botanical Garden, Gonio Fortress, Piazza Square, Batumi Cable Car
Batumi Guide: How to Get to the City
Now that we know all the necessary information about Batumi, let’s see how we can get there. Have you made up your mind about visiting Batumi? There are several ways you can get to Batumi.
How to Get to Batumi by Plane?
The most convenient way to reach Batumi is by plane. The Batumi International Airport is only 2 km south of the city center. You can get there via direct flights from cities like:
- Istanbul
- Ankara
- Tel Aviv
- Dubai and other Persian Gulf cities
- Moscow
- Saint Petersburg and other Russian cities
- Some European cities like Warsaw, Katowice, and Vienna
If direct flights aren’t available from your hometown to Batumi, you can book indirect flights to other Georgia airports, including Tbilisi International Airport and the Kutaisi International Airport. Then, you can book a domestic flight from these airports to Batumi or get a taxi, bus, or train ride. Kutaisi airport is closer to Batumi than Tbilisi airport. If you’re planning on a car ride or a plane ride, it takes around 2-3 hours to get to Batumi from Kutaisi and 5-6 hours from Tbilisi.
Lastly, check for seasonal flights that are only available at certain times of the year.
How to Get to Batumi by Train?
The only two international train routes that come to Georgia are from its Southern neighbors, Azerbaijan and Armenia’s capitals. And they reach Tbilisi. However, you can get a direct train ride from Tbilisi. And the route is majestic. It moves from the heart of the Caucasus mountain range and offers scenic views. It can be a good starting point for your trip to Batumi.
How to Get to Batumi by Car?
You can get to Georgia via international roads from neighboring countries, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Russia. Turkey, specifically, can be a good starting point. Batumi is only 20 km away from Turkey’s border.
If you want to drive through the land with your car, don’t forget to bring these requirements: a valid driver’s license, a valid foreign passport, a document confirming vehicle ownership, and an auto-civil liability policy.
Where to Stay in Batumi?
Through recent years, Batumi has developed into a popular tourist destination. So, the city knows those tourists need a place to stay. Batumi offers a vast range of different hotel options, ranging from high-end rooms to more affordable options. If you’re wondering where to stay in Batumi, think no more! Here is a table of the best Batumi hotels to stay at. Besides, we arranged them from the most expensive to the cheapest place. So you can decide where to stay in Batumi easier.
| Hotel’s name | Price range |
|---|---|
| Le Méridien Batumi | $177-$230 / 480-625 GEL |
| Hilton Batumi | $173-$620 / 470-1700 GEL |
| Sheraton Batumi | $173-$270 / 470-740 GEL |
| Radisson Blu Hotel, Batumi | $135-$265 / 370-726 GEL |
| Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Batumi | $97-$160 / 264-435 GEL |
| Wyndham Batumi | $88-$160 / 240-435 GEL |
| The Grand Gloria Hotel | $87-$105 / 235-285 GEL |
| JRW Welmond Hotel & Casino | $80-$101 / 217-274 GEL |
| Best Western Premier Batumi | $70-$100 / 190-272 GEL |
| Courtyard Batumi | $60-$150 / 163-408 GEL |
| Colosseum Marina Hotel | $54-$78 / 147-212 GEL |
| Hotel Old Town | From $54 / From 147 GEL |
| Boutique Hotel 32 | $48-$60 / 130-163 GEL |
| Alliance Palace Batumi | $45-$58 / 122-158 GEL |
| Hotel Del Mar | $44-$55 / 120-149 GEL |
| Euphoria Hotel Batumi | $40-$100 / 110-272 GEL |
| Hotel N16 | $37-$49 / 100-133 GEL |
| Hotel Aristocrat Batumi | $32-$60 / 87-163 GEL |
| Orbi City Batumi | $32-$53 / 87-144 GEL |
| Karvi Hostel & Suites | $29-$61 / 79-166 GEL |
What to Do in Batumi? Top Tourist Attractions in Batumi
Moving on with our Batumi guide, we already know how to get to Batumi and where to stay. Now that you’ve booked your tickets and hotel room, let’s see what are the top things to do Batumi. First, let’s start with the top tourist attractions in Batumi.
Batumi Botanical Garden, Best for Batumi’s Outdoor Activities
Location: Mtsvane Kontskhi, Batumi
Wondering what to do in Batumi? It’s good to start your trip by visiting one of the most popular destinations in Batumi. Botanica Garden in Batumi can be everyone’s favorite place. The breathtaking nature of this garden can capture almost anyone’s heart. Therefore, if you’re looking for outdoor activities in Batumi, we highly recommend it.
Located only 9 km North of Batumi, it is easily accessible from the city center. If you’re relying on Batumi’s public transportation, two city bus lines and taxis can take you there.
Batumi Botanical Garden has expanded almost 108 hectares. It offers the richest botanical collection in the world. You’ll get a vast collection of exotic plants and flowers from nine different regions, including East Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Himalayas.
The best time to visit Batumi Botanical Garden is during spring and summer when its plants are in full bloom. Wear a comfortable pair of shoes and bring a camera. This garden is full of hiking trails with stunning views. You can dedicate a full day to exploring or picnic in this place with your family. It’s also a top destination among other things to do Batumi with kids. They’ll love this place!
Lastly, the entrance fee for Batumi Botanical Garden is 20 GEL per person.
Batumi Boulevard, Explore Things to Do Batumi Here
Location: Ninoshvili Street, Batumi (extends along the seafront)
Any tourist in Batumi will eventually visit this place. As you probably guessed by the name, this boulevard is the main street in Batumi. Parallel to the coast of the Black Sea, it extends over 7 km through the city. It hosts a range of different indoor and outdoor activities.
If you’re lucky to catch a sunny day in Batumi, we highly suggest walking on this boulevard during the sunset. Besides the views, this place is filled with parks, cafes, and restaurants. Each one can be an exciting answer for what to do in Batumi.
Top things you can do in Batumi Boulevard include strolling, biking, visiting Batumi beaches, and going to other nearby Batumi landmarks. Besides, this boulevard reveals a new look after sunset.
The place is a hub for Batumi nightlife. The boulevard alone will be filled with music performances, occasional evening events, and street art. Besides, watching Batumi’s skyline during the night makes it much more admiring. All in all, Batumi Boulevard is a top choice for anyone looking for things to do Batumi at night.
Piazza Square
Location: 25 Giorgi Mazniashvili Street, Batumi
Let us introduce a tiny piece of Rome in Batumi. If you’re planning on exploring Batumi Boulevard, this spot is a must-see sight. Piazze Square is built following traditional European architecture. With mosaic floors and colorful facades, this part of our Batumi guide feels like an Italian travel guide.
Piazza Square is just gorgeous. To add even more to its lively atmosphere, Piazza hosts various events like live music and performances. It also makes it a perfect spot for Batumi’s nightlife.
Maybe the best thing you can do in Piazza Square is to book a restaurant table there. This way, you can enjoy Georgian cuisine surrounded by picturesque buildings. Besides, you can enjoy an evening music performance and shop for souvenirs.
Ali and Nino Statue, What to Do in Batumi for Couples
Location: Seaside Boulevard, Near Batumi Lighthouse and Ferris Wheel, Batumi
Coming from a heart-wrenching love story, the Ali and Nino Statue is the most recognizable landmark in Batumi. Also known as the Statue of Love, this sculpture honors the main characters of a 1937 romantic novel. Ali is an Azerbaijani Muslim boy who falls in love with Nino, a Christian Georgian princess.
The statue moves every 10 minutes. The two figures of Ali and Nino move toward each other and merge briefly then separate again.
When strolling down Batumi Boulevard, keep an eye out for Ali and Nino. Its unique design makes it an unforgettable sight in Batumi. Besides, Ali and Nino can represent any couple’s love and unity. Taking a picture with this statue must be on every list of things to do in Batumi for couples.
Batumi Dolphinarium, Things to do in Batumi with Kids
Location: 51 Rustaveli Avenue, Batumi
No Batumi guide is complete without mentioning the city’s Dolphinarium. The Batumi Dolphinarium is an exciting option for every tourist. No matter if you’re looking for family-friendly, romantic, or adventurous places in Batumi, this place has it all.
Batumi Dolphinarium is located at the city’s central park. Like most of Batumi’s landmarks, it is near Batumi Boulevard, making it easily accessible. Besides, the general admission prices aren’t expensive, starting at 20 GEL.
Along with dolphin shows, Batumi Dolphinarium offers other engaging activities like swimming with dolphins, taking pictures with them, and educational programs about marine life.
Are you interested in these adorable animals?! Well, make sure you won’t miss one of the Dolphinarium shows. Check their schedules beforehand and book your tickets.
Batumi Cable Car (Argo)
Location: 1 Gogebashvili Street, Batumi
One of the unique features of Batumi is its geographical location. From the coast of the Black Sea to the Adjara mountains, this city has many astounding views. Enjoying the views is the simplest answer to what to do in Batumi. But how? Take a ride at the Batumi Cable Car.
Your ride starts at the lower station in Batumi. Then, it reaches the peaks of Anuria mountain near the town. Your ride lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and covers over 2 km. Meanwhile, you’ll be gazing at the panoramic views of Batumi’s sea and mountains.
Apart from the cable car ride, there’s a viewing platform at the top station. You can stay and continue watching Batumi. Besides, there are shopping centers and dining options to add to your experience.
Batumi Cable Car ride is priced at 30 GEL per person. However, there are discounts for kids.
Europe Square
Location: Zviad Gamsakhurdia Street, Batumi
There’s another square in Batumi reminiscent of a European city. And it’s literally called Europe Square! Moving on with our Batumi guide, let’s discover the Europe Square Batumi.
This place highlights the connection that Batumi has with European culture. Besides, it has a recognizable structure. The Medea statue marks Butami’s historical connection to ancient Greece. Besides, it emphasizes the importance of this region in Greek mythology.
Europe Square is located in the middle of the city. The place is surrounded by historical buildings. Along with sightseeing, you can enjoy a delicious Georgian dish in one of the cafes or restaurants here. You can visit this place after a long day of adventure for a relaxing evening. And if you’re lucky enough, you’ll run into some music performances.
Other Batumi Attractions Worth Mentioning
Do you think you can still manage to do more things while staying at Batumi? We’ve got your back. Here is an “extra” list of things to do in Batumi.
- Batumi Miracle Park: a lively park located at the beachfront, perfect for outdoor activities in Batumi. (Near Ali and Nino Statue, Seaside Boulevard, Batumi)
- Ethnographic Museum (Borjgalo): only 2 km away from the city center, this museum showcases traditional Georgian lifestyle and craftsmanship. (32 Makhinjauri Highway, Batumi)
- Batumi lighthouse: built in the 19th century, this lighthouse has historical importance and unique location. (Near the Batumi Sea Port, Seaside Boulevard, Batumi)
- Batumi Sea Port: visit this place if you like to get a boat ride. It’s a thrilling activity. (2 Gogebashvili Street, Batumi)
- Batumi Archeological Museum: it has a vast range of artifacts from the region that date back to ancient times. (77 Chavchavadze Street, Batumi)
- Dancing fountains: a captivating attraction, especially during the night when the water fountains sync with light displays and music. (Ardagani Lake, Near Rustaveli Avenue, Batumi)
- Metro City Mall: Batumi’s main shopping center, perfect for those who are looking to pick up some souvenirs. (111a Zurab Gorgiladze Street, Batumi)
What to Do in Batumi When It Rains?
As we mentioned before, Batumi is Georgia’s wettest city. You’ll most likely see some rain on your trip to Batumi. So you must be prepared. Apart from reminding you to pack suitable clothes, we’ve dedicated this part of our Batumi guide to indoor activities.
- Visit Batumi’s museums: You can spend time indoors by visiting Batumi’s museums. For instance, our top picks are the Batumi Archaeological Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Art Museum of Batumi. This way you’ll stay out of the rain and dedicate some time to dig deeper into the city’s culture and history.
- Batumi Dolphinarium: We’ve already covered this place in detail in the “What to do in Batumi section”. However, we mentioned it again here because the Batumi Dolphinarium is located inside an indoor arena. Therefore, It’s among the most exciting indoor activities in Batumi.
- Shopping: You can still visit Batumi’s malls and shop during rain. It can also be a fun indoor activity in Batumi. You can visit places like the Metro City Mall.
- Cafes and Restaurants: I want you to picture having a relaxing evening meal in a cozy Batumi restaurant. Wouldn’t that be more cozy if it rained outside? Besides, dining in a luxury restaurant while it rains must be on every couple’s list of things to do in Batumi.
- Walking in Batumi: Our last suggestion isn’t an indoor activity. However, if you don’t mind getting wet, strolling in city landmarks such as the European Square is a unique experience. The city becomes admirable during rain. Besides, walking in the streets of Batumi with an umbrella is among the top things to do in Batumi for couples.
What to Do Batumi at Night? Be a Part of Batumi Nightlife
Batumi is famous for its vibrant nightlife. So, exploring Batumi’s nightlife activities is an essential part of your trip to this city. Now, let’s see what to do in Batumi during nighttime.
- Visit Batumi’s bars and nightclubs
Batumi has many bars and nightclubs. They are the lively centers of Batumi’s nightlife. And all of them come alive at night. They are affordable and have distinctive features like having a beachside atmosphere. Besides, they cover a diverse range of musical tastes.
- Explore Batumi’s casinos
Batumi has a reputation for being the “Las Vegas” of the Black Sea. And it’s because of the many casinos you can find in the city. Casinos have become a prominent part of Batumi’s nightlife. If you’re interested, you can check out places like Casino International Batumi and Eclipse Casino.
- Take a nighttime Ferris wheel ride
If you’re looking for more family-friendly nighttime activities, you can take a Ferris wheel ride. The city’s Ferris wheel is near Batumi Boulevard. It’ll provide scenic views from Batumi’s night skyline. Besides, it’s a must among the top things to do in Batumi with kids.
- Visit the Alphabetic Tower
This is a 130-meter-tall tower dedicated to the Georgian alphabet. You can reach its top floor at night to get stunning views of the city.
We tried to come up with a list of different activities dedicated only to Batumi’s nightlife. However, you can still check busy spots like the European Square or the Piazza Square at night. They are also a major part of Batumi nightlife.
Batumi Best Beaches
Things to do in Batumi wouldn’t be complete without one or two beach activities. It’s impossible to go to Batumi without visiting the Black Sea Coast. Surely, beach activities will be a big part of your trip to Batumi. Therefore, you should know a bit about the city’s best beaches. Here is a list of some of the best beaches in Batumi you can visit:
- Gonio Beach
One of the largest Batumi beaches is Gonio Beach. So you don’t need to worry about visiting this beach during peak hours. This 2 km long beach has plenty of space for everyone. Besides, it is easily accessible from Batumi. It’s only 10 km away from the city center. However, reaching there with a car of your own makes the road a lot more enjoyable. That’s why we suggest renting a car before exploring Batumi beaches.
Gonio is an exciting choice because of its surrounding wild landscapes and its lively nightlife. It has many bars and restaurants that are fantastic for a relaxing evening at the beach.
- Kvariati Beach
Near the Turkey border, Kvariati is a bit further from Batumi. However, the lush hills right behind this beach make up for it. The scenic views mixed with a serene atmosphere have made Kvariati a top choice in our Batumi guide. Besides, it’s a family-friendly place. This place can give you the ultimate beach day to spend with your family.
- Sarpi Beach
Let’s go further South. Located right on the Georgian-Turkish border, there is a spotless place. Sarpi Beach is a heaven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Just like the Kvariati Beach, Sarpi is surrounded by green hills. They make up a perfect background for your beach day pictures.
Aside from the stunning landscapes, Sarpi offers other beach attractions like restaurants, bars, and water activities.
- Batumi Beach
Now, let’s get back to the town. If you’re looking for a beach inside of Batumi, you can check out the city’s main park. It’s the ultimate seaside city experience. You’ll have exciting activities on this bustling beach at any time of the day.
You’ll have a diverse experience in Batumi Beach. There are a range of activities for any preference. Whether you’re looking for Batumi’s bustling nightlife or a relaxing beach day, this place has it all.
- Aquapark Beach
For our last pick on our Batumi guide beaches, we’ve picked the Aquapark. It is essential to know about this place for anyone looking for what to do in Batumi. This beach is the blend of seaside calmness with thrilling fun.
Aquapark is a perfect spot for families or adventure seekers. Other than regular seaside getaways, you can enjoy other water activities like slides.
Transportation in Batumi: How to Get Around the City
The three main ways you can get around Batumi are by public transportation, taxis, and renting a car. Each item can be helpful. However, they have some downsides as well. Let’s continue with our Batumi guide to break down each one of them in more detail.
Public Transportation and Taxis in Batumi
Buses are the most affordable option to get around in Batumi. A bus ride in Batumi would cost you somewhere between 0.3 and 0.5 GEL. Besides, they cover most parts of Batumi and have stops at the city’s major landmarks. You can also get a Batumi card to get discounts.
The second option is a taxi. Batumi offers both traditional and online taxis. The traditional taxis are widely accessible in Batumi. You can hail one if you see it on the streets. But keep in mind to avoid unofficial taxis. They’re unreliable and might overcharge tourists.
Although traditional taxis are available, online taxis are more convenient. They are a lot easier to hire any time of the day and offer fixed rates. Besides, you can set the app’s settings in English to avoid the language barrier. The best online taxi apps in Batumi are Bolt, Maxim, and SmartTaxi-2 Batumi.
Renting a Car in Batumi
If you want seamless exploring in and outside of Batumi, we highly suggest renting a car. Aside from more convenience, renting a car in Batumi is more affordable than hiring a taxi. You can also pick a car that best matches your interest. For instance, rent a 4×4 offroader if you want to discover Batumi’s nature and wild landscapes.
All in all, car rental helps you discover more things to do in Batumi. Besides, Batumi road trips are something you shouldn’t miss when visiting Georgia. That’s why car rental should be a part of your trip plan and our Batumi guide. Before relying on these options, make sure you meet these requirements:
- Valid driver’s license
- Valid passport or national identity card
- Credit card in the name of the main driver
- Age between 21 and 79
- At least one year of driving experience
Last Word
Batumi has seen rapid growth in the past two decades. These developments have made Batumi the number-one tourist destination in the region. Furthermore, the things to do in Batumi have a vast range. Anything from beach activities, historical sites, or night bars can be your answer to what to do in Batumi.
We hope our Batumi guide has given you a general image of Batumi. Take your time to review each attraction, hotel, and transportation options. Then, plan your travel schedule accordingly.
FAQ
How many days are enough for Batumi?
Give Batumi at least two days. This amount is enough to visit Batumi’s main attractions. Discover Batumi’s parks, beaches, and museums. And don’t forget to try some Georgian cuisine.
Is Batumi expensive to visit?
Batumi is more affordable than most European cities. Although Batumi isn’t expensive, your trip’s expenses can vary based on your personal preferences.
