A city that knows how to live
Batumi, capital of the Adjara region, sits on the Black Sea coast in southwest Georgia. On one side — a modern resort city with skyscrapers, casinos and hotels over the boulevard. On the other — old quarters in Ottoman and European-modernist style, with their own history. The sea, the nightlife and the Adjaran cuisine make it a destination that feels different from the rest of Georgia.
What to see in Batumi
1. The Batumi boulevard
What it is: a long strip of promenade by the sea — walking and cycling paths, modern sculptures, gardens, bars and cafés. Most of the city’s attractions are concentrated here.
Don’t miss: walking at night along the sea, when the boulevard fills with people and the mood comes alive. In summer it’s busy until late.
Tip: start at the harbor and head north — that way you see all the attractions in natural order.
2. The “Ali and Nino” statue
What it is: two 8 m metal statues — a man and a woman — that move slowly, approach and merge every 10 minutes. A symbol of an impossible love, based on a Georgian novel.
Tip: it’s best to go at sunset, when the statue is lit and the sea is behind.
3. The Alphabet Tower
What it is: a 130 m spiral structure with the 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet. At the top — a viewpoint and, sometimes, a revolving restaurant. An immense view of the city and the sea.
Getting there: on the boulevard, among the main attractions. Paid entry.
4. The Piazza
What it is: a small Italian-style square with cafés, restaurants and a clock tower in Georgian-European style. At its center — Europe’s largest figurative mosaic: 88 million tesserae of one square centimeter each, by a Georgian-Swiss artist.
Tip: at night there’s live music and a romantic atmosphere — an excellent spot for a coffee or a dinner.
5. The Batumi Botanical Garden
What it is: about 9–10 km north of the city, on wooded hills by the coast. Over 5,000 plant species from different climate zones, shaded trails, little bridges and sea viewpoints.
How long: at least two hours. Better to set aside half a day.
Getting there: by taxi from the center — about 15 minutes.
6. The Ferris wheel
What it is: a 55 m Ferris wheel, 240 passengers, a 10-minute turn. A panoramic view of the city and the sea.
Tip: loveliest at sunset — shorter queues on weekdays.
What to eat
Adjaruli khachapuri: the famous Georgian “boat” — boat-shaped dough filled with cheese, egg and butter stirred together. It originates in Adjara, and here it’s the best.
Fish and seafood: along the coast there are plenty of restaurants with fresh Black Sea fish.
Adjaran tradition: borano — a local fondue. Sinori — a pastry. Kaymagi — rich cream. Achma — a cheese lasagna.
Coffee on sand: a preserved Ottoman tradition — coffee brewed in a pot over hot sand, served with baklava.
Local tip: don’t look only on the boulevard — the best restaurants hide in the old quarters, a little away from the sea. Hotels in Batumi
Getting around
On foot: the center and the boulevard are ideal for walking. Most of the main attractions are within a few kilometers.
Taxis: Bolt only. Street taxis — inflated prices. Bolt shows the price upfront.
Getting there from Tbilisi: by train — about 5 hours. By private driver or minibus — about 4–5 hours, with beautiful scenery along the way.
For a family holiday
The beach water park — loungers and slides. The botanical garden, the dolphinarium and the Ferris wheel — all family-friendly.
For those keeping kosher: Batumi is one of the cities with kosher restaurants in Georgia. There’s an active Chabad house in the city.