Top Things to Do in Batumi Georgia Coastal Gem
Welcome to Batumi, Georgia’s vibrant coastal city where the Black Sea meets modern architecture, lush botanical gardens, buzzing nightlife, and centuries-old traditions. Often called the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, Batumi offers a perfect mix of beach vibes, culture, art, and adventure. Whether you’re a beach lover, foodie, history buff, or nature enthusiast — Batumi has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, don’t skip this charming seaside city. Let’s explore the top things to do in Batumi for an unforgettable experience.
1. Stroll Along Batumi Boulevard
Start your journey with a relaxing walk along the iconic Batumi Boulevard. This 7-kilometer stretch by the sea is lined with palm trees, fountains, sculptures, and cozy beach cafes. Whether you’re biking, walking, or people-watching, the boulevard offers beautiful views of the Black Sea, especially at sunset.
Be sure to check out the Ali & Nino statue, a moving sculpture that tells the story of a tragic love affair. It’s one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
2. Relax at Batumi Beach
A visit to Batumi wouldn’t be complete without spending time on its beaches. Batumi Beach offers a pebbled shoreline, clean waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. You can rent a sunbed, swim in the Black Sea, or enjoy water activities like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
For a more tranquil experience, head to Green Cape, just a short drive from the city center.
3. Visit the Batumi Botanical Garden
One of the largest and most diverse botanical gardens in the world, the Batumi Botanical Garden stretches over 100 hectares and showcases plants from around the globe. Located on a hillside overlooking the Black Sea, the garden offers scenic walking trails, fresh air, and breathtaking views.
It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
4. Explore Old Batumi
Step into the past by wandering through Old Batumi, where cobbled streets and 19th-century architecture create a charming, timeless vibe. The area is full of beautifully restored buildings, cozy cafes, boutique shops, and historic squares like Piazza Square and Europe Square.
It’s a lovely place to explore on foot, especially in the early evening when the city lights begin to glow.
5. Take a Ride on the Argo Cable Car
For panoramic views of Batumi and the Black Sea, hop on the Argo Cable Car. The ride takes you from the city to the hills above Batumi, where you can enjoy a scenic lookout point and a café with a view.
This is one of the best spots in the city to catch a sunset or take wide-angle landscape photos.
6. Taste the Flavors of Adjara
Batumi is the capital of the Adjara region, which is known for its unique cuisine. One must-try dish is Adjarian Khachapuri — a boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, butter, and a freshly cracked egg.
Pair it with a glass of Georgian wine or a shot of chacha, the country’s traditional grape brandy, for a complete culinary experience. Batumi offers everything from street food stalls to elegant restaurants.
7. Discover Batumi’s Modern Architecture
Unlike Tbilisi’s old-world charm, Batumi is known for its futuristic and sometimes quirky architecture. Landmarks like the Alphabet Tower, which honors the Georgian script, and the Batumi Tower, with a Ferris wheel embedded in it, give the city a modern, artistic flair.
Wandering the city is like walking through an open-air museum of creative design.
8. Enjoy the Nightlife and Street Performances
When the sun goes down, Batumi lights up. The beachfront comes alive with street performers, live music, and food vendors. For those looking for a livelier experience, the city is full of beach bars, clubs, and lounges.
Don’t miss the dancing fountains near the lake — a light and water show set to music that’s fun for all ages.
9. Take a Day Trip to Mtirala National Park
Located just an hour from Batumi, Mtirala National Park is a lush, green paradise perfect for hiking, picnicking, and escaping the bustle of the city. Known for its high rainfall, the park offers dense forests, waterfalls, and scenic trails.
This is a great spot for birdwatchers, eco-tourists, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
10. Shop at Local Markets and Try Traditional Sweets
No trip is complete without bringing home a few souvenirs. Visit the Batumi Bazaar for local spices, handmade crafts, traditional sweets like churchkhela, cheeses, and Georgian wines.
It’s also a fantastic way to meet locals and learn more about Georgian culture through food and conversation.
Final Thoughts
Batumi may not be as well-known as Georgia’s capital, but it has a personality all its own — youthful, creative, coastal, and full of surprises. Whether you’re exploring botanical gardens, walking along the beach, tasting local dishes, or discovering ancient neighborhoods, Batumi offers something for every kind of traveler.
So if you’re heading to Georgia, make room in your itinerary for this coastal gem. You’ll leave with beautiful memories, full camera rolls, and maybe even plans to come back.