Batumi: Georgia’s Glamorous Black Sea Gem

Batumi is Georgia’s playful, subtropical seaside city, where neon-lit skyscrapers, palm-lined boulevards, and Ottoman-era old town alleys collide. It’s a mix of Las Vegas glitz, Mediterranean charm, and Soviet nostalgia—all wrapped in a humid coastal breeze.

Key Facts

Location: Adjara region, on the Black Sea coast near Turkey.

Population: ~200,000 (Georgia’s 2nd-largest city).

Climate: Humid subtropical (hot summers, mild winters).

Vibe: Resort chic by day, party hub by night.

Top Attractions

1. Batumi Boulevard & Seaside

6-mile seaside promenade with palm trees, bike lanes, and quirky sculptures.

Ali & Nino Statue – Moving steel lovers that merge and part.

Batumi Beach – Pebbly but lively (best at 6 km Beach for fewer crowds).

2. Batumi Old Town

Piazza Square – Italian-style plaza with cafes and live music.

Mosque & Bazaar – Leftover Ottoman-era charm.

Chacha Clock Tower – Pours free brandy at certain hours.

3. Futuristic Architecture

Batumi Tower (Alphabet Tower) – Honors Georgian script with LED lights.

Batumi Technological Tower – A twisted, UFO-like skyscraper.

Argo Cable Car – Panoramic views to Anuria Mountain.

4. Cultural & Quirky Spots

Batumi Botanical Garden – 1,000+ plant species on a cliff over the sea.

Dolphinarium – Soviet-era dolphin shows (controversial but popular).

Batumi Casino District – Glitzy but mostly for tourists.

5. Day Trips from Batumi

Gonio Fortress – Roman-era ruins near the Turkish border.

Mtirala National Park – "Weeping Mountain" with rainforest hikes.

Sarpi Border Village – Turquoise waters and Turkish markets.

Batumi’s Food & Drink Scene

Must-Try Dishes:

Adjarian Khachapuri (Boat-shaped cheese bread with egg).

Borano (Melted cheese with butter).

Fresh Black Sea Anchovies (Fried or marinated).

Drinks:

Local Wine – Try Tsolikouri (white) or Chkhaveri (pink).

Lagidze Water – Soviet-era fizzy syrups mixed with mineral water.

Best Cafes:

Litera Café (Bookish vibe near the boulevard).

Café Adjara (Traditional Georgian breakfasts).

Nightlife & Entertainment

Clubbing:

Bassiani Batumi – Offshore techno club on a pier.

Cafe Gallery – Live music and cocktails.

Casinos:

Sheraton Casino – High-roller spot.

Hilton Batumi – More relaxed gaming.

Getting Around

Taxis: Bolt/Yandex (cheap, but negotiate prices late at night).

Walking: Best for the boulevard and old town.

Biking: Rentals along the boulevard.

Best Time to Visit

June-September: Beach weather (but crowded).

May or October: Warm but quieter.

Winter: Mild, festive lights, and no tourists.

Insider Tips

Avoid "Beach Clubs" – Overpriced and touristy.

Haggle at Bazaars – Especially near the Turkish border.

Try a "Supra" in a Village – Better than touristy restaurants.

Batumi is Georgia’s playful alter ego—where you can sunbathe, rave in a pier club, or sip wine under palm trees. It’s not "authentic Georgia," but it’s a damn fun escape.