One of Georgia’s oldest cities, Batumi's setting on the Black Sea has made it both an important port and a popular resort destination. Its Old Town is clustered with 19th-century buildings and charismatic Orthodox churches, with a sweeping waterfront promenade and beach to cool off at during the hot summer months.

Things to do

Batumi’s most famous landmark is the Gonio-Apsarosi Fortress, whose ruins boast spectacular views of the Black Sea. Pottery, bronze artefacts and coins dating back to the Hellenistic period have been found here, many of which are on display in the Batumi Archaeological Museum.

Admire the works of some of Georgia’s most celebrated artists at the Adjara State Art Museum, set within a monumental building designed by Kakha Javakhishvili. Pieces by Niko Pirosmani, Lado Gudiashvili and Elene Akhvlediani are among its impressive collection that includes a post-1950 contemporary art section.

Georgia’s distinct woodcarving tradition is on display at the Kemal Turmanidze Art Salon, owned and operated by a prominent local master. Not only are his internationally-exhibited works on display, but you can see first-hand the techniques used by Georgian craftsmen for centuries.

Take the time to wander along the waterfront promenade and admire the Georgian script on the 130 metre-high Alphabetic Tower, then get your thrills on the beachside amusement rides of Batumi’s Lunapark. A perfect day trip, take the train north along the Black Sea Coast to the aptly-named “Green Cape” where the spectacular Batumi Botanical Gardens are found.

Getting around

Batumi International Airport is located just 10 minutes’ drive south of the city centre, with flights connecting across Georgia and to Istanbul. Batumi is a pleasant destination to explore on foot, and there is a network of red painted bike paths along the beach and port.