Georgia: Batumi, the capital of Adjara, is a unique place on the country’s map. This autonomous region stands out with its flag and dialect influenced by Turkish and its rich cuisine full of flavours and traditions. Batumi enchants visitors with its black sandy beaches, lush green hills, and warm, humid climate, which make it distinct from the rest of Georgia.
Why visit Georgia: Batumi?
Batumi is one of Georgia’s top tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world. The city is famous for its unique atmosphere and diverse attractions – from modern hotels and casinos to beautiful botanical gardens and historical squares like Piazza Square, with its Italian-style architecture. It’s also a hub for cultural and musical events, hosting festivals like the Batumi Jazz Festival.
This city offers the perfect blend of relaxation and active leisure.
You’ll find not only beaches and promenades but also unique landmarks like the Alphabet Tower, the Ali and Nino statue – a symbol of love and tolerance – and scenic views from the Argo cable car.
Nature lovers will also enjoy beautiful parks, small gardens, green squares, and the Botanical Garden.
Whether you seek luxury relaxation or local flavours and experiences, Batumi has something for everyone. It’s a place where traditional Georgian hospitality meets the modern vibe of a seaside resort.
Georgia: Batumi for a Weekend. City Exploration Plan
Get ready for an exciting weekend filled with seaside walks, bay cruises, scenic views from the cable car, and unforgettable moments at the Dolphinarium. Check out what to see and how to make the most of your time in this Georgian gem!
Day 1 – Friday
The weekend starts on Friday afternoon.
Seaside Promenade
The Seaside Promenade is a unique spot that draws locals and tourists with its charming atmosphere and rich history. Its origins date back to when Batumi was a popular spa town, and the elegant promenade was the resort’s main attraction.
Along the way, you’ll encounter several remarkable sites:
- “Antique” columns from 1930
- A classical-style fountain from 1934
- The Summer Theater is one of the Boulevard’s most iconic landmarks. The wooden building is a replica of the original 1949 theatre, which burned down in the 1990s. In the summer, it hosts performances that attract culture enthusiasts.
- Cafe Fantasy, also known as Octopus, is a stunning example of well-preserved mosaic art. Built in 1981, the café recently underwent major renovations and is considered one of Batumi’s symbols.
For more details on the history of the boulevards, visit boulevard.ge.
Japanese Garden
It is located in the heart of Batumi, across from the State University, and you’ll find a charming Japanese garden. This small oasis is a haven of Eastern harmony, featuring a traditional red torii gate, stone toro lanterns, a picturesque bridge, and Japanese maples. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for relaxation amidst the city buzz!
Wedding House
The Wedding House in Batumi is an extraordinary building that has drawn attention with its unique architecture since 2009. Located at the entrance to Batumi’s famous promenade, its shape resembles a shark’s eye. It’s not just a place for marriage ceremonies but also an architectural icon of the city, attracting tourists and couples worldwide.
With its unusual form, the building symbolizes Batumi’s modernity and innovation. It fits seamlessly into a cityscape full of contrasts – where the past meets the future. Take a moment to stop here during your walk along the promenade to see how contemporary architecture harmonizes with the surrounding greenery and the sea.
Fun fact: This spot is especially popular among young couples who want to get married in a unique setting. It also provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos, offering a chance to feel the pulse of modern Batumi.
Dancing Fountains
The Dancing Fountains in Batumi are a magical attraction that captivates visitors with their charm. It was built in 1977 through the collaboration of Georgian architect Giorgi Erkomaishvili and Armenian engineers, the fountains were renovated in 2007. Music was added during the renovation, creating a mesmerizing sound and light show.
The square around the fountains is framed by columns adorned with figurines of boys playing flutes.
Nearby on the Boulevards, you’ll also find the charming Fairy Statue.
The fountains are one of the most popular spots on Batumi Boulevard, especially perfect for an evening stroll. They offer unforgettable experiences set to the rhythm of dancing water.
Miracle Park
Walking along the promenade, you’ll reach Miracle Park – a modern recreational space. It’s home to some of Batumi’s most iconic attractions, such as the Alphabet Tower, the Ali and Nino statues, and the Batumi Lighthouse. It’s the ideal place for relaxation, leisure, and discovering contemporary Batumi with historical touches.
- Alphabet Tower: This 130-meter lattice structure is wrapped in ribbons featuring the 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet. The tower is crowned by a glass sphere with an observation deck, accessible via a panoramic elevator.
- Ali and Nino statues: These famous moving sculptures represent love, tolerance, and Georgian-Azerbaijani friendship.
Their synchronized movements tell a story of eternal union, with the figures coming together and parting in a 10-minute sequence.
- Batumi Lighthouse: One of the last witnesses to the city’s historic past. The current structure, modelled after the lighthouse in Sukhumi, was built in 1882. On a clear day, you can see the coastline of Abkhazia from its surroundings!
Batumi Tower
Batumi Tower is the tallest building in Batumi, notable for its unique golden Ferris wheel built into its upper floors.
Originally intended to house the Technical University, these plans were never realized. New investors now aim to transform the tower into a hotel.
Old Town
The Old Town of Batumi is a charming area where you can feel the spirit of the city’s past. You will find narrow streets, beautiful 19th and 20th-century townhouses, and numerous cafés and restaurants here. During your stroll, look for intriguing architectural details, such as ornate balconies, colourful mosaics, and unique stained-glass windows.
Batumi Piazza
Inspired by Italian squares, the Piazza in Batumi impresses with its mosaic flooring – one of the largest in Europe. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, with walls adorned with mosaics and vibrant stained glass. Don’t miss the “Venetian” clock tower. The clock on the tower plays the Georgian anthem every three hours.
Europe Square
This is the heart of Batumi, full of unique buildings and historical significance. At its centre stands the statue of Medea (erected in 2007), the Colchian princess from Greek mythology and wife of Jason, symbolizing Georgia’s ancient connections with Europe.
Nearby are the Armenian Church of St. Gregory, the Orta Mosque, the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, and the Synagogue.
Day 2: Saturday
Boat Trip in the Bay
Enjoy a relaxing cruise and admire the city’s panorama from the sea. You can book a short 30-minute trip around the bay. Example offers on travel-batumi.com.
Ferris Wheel
Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, offering a unique city view from 55 meters high. Tickets cost 10 GEL (approx. 3,5$, as of 2024), and the ride lasts 10 minutes.
Argo Cable Car
The Argo cable car is one of Batumi’s top attractions, providing stunning views of the city, the Black Sea coast, and surrounding mountains. The cable car ascends to Anuria Hill, about 250 meters above sea level. It takes about 15 minutes to cover the 2.5-kilometre section. At the viewing platform at the top of the hill, you can admire Batumi in all its glory. The view is breathtaking both during the day and in the evening when the city lights up in vibrant colours.
At the top, there’s a café and restaurant where you can relax and enjoy the scenery over a cup of coffee or a glass of local wine. The Argo cable car is an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and anyone wanting to see Batumi from a unique perspective. The ticket costs around 30 GEL (approx. 11$, as of 2024).
More information can be found at Cable Car Argo Batumi.
Dolphinarium
For the late afternoon, I recommend a dolphin show, a delightful and relaxing way to end the day.
Tickets cost 25 GEL (approx. 9$, as of 2024). During the summer season, shows run up to three times daily and last about 40 minutes. It’s great fun and an emotional experience for visitors of all ages – not just for kids!
Check the Dolphinarium Batumi website for more information and show schedules.
Nuri Lake and 6 May Park
Nuri Lake, also known as Pioneer Lake, is a picturesque natural spot in the heart of Batumi, just a few steps from the Black Sea coast. Once a swampy area, it was transformed into a beautiful urban park in 1933. Today, it’s a popular recreational area where you can rent boats or paddle boats.
Surrounding the lake is 6 May Park, also known as Central Park Batumi, offering playgrounds for children, a mini zoo, and plenty of greenery. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Nuri Lake is surrounded by legends, adding to its charm and mystique. Its waters are fed primarily by groundwater, making it rich in various fish species. A walk around the lake, among the trees and paths of 6 May Park, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. For families with kids, it’s a perfect opportunity for fun and relaxation. Find more information at Nuri Lake in Batumi.
End your day at one of the local restaurants serving traditional Georgian dishes.
Day 3: Sunday
Visit to the Botanical Garden
The Batumi Botanical Garden is one of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in the region. It features thousands of plant species from around the world, divided into various climatic zones. Walking along its pathways offers breathtaking views of the coastline and an opportunity to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Plan to spend around 2–3 hours here to fully appreciate the plant diversity and the tranquillity of the surroundings. Tickets cost 20 GEL (approx. 7,2$, as of 2024). More information can be found on the Batumi Botanical Garden website.
Lunch and Relaxation at Batumi Piazza
If you’re staying in Batumi for lunch, head to Batumi Piazza. This vibrant square is home to restaurants serving local culinary delights and homemade wine. It’s a favourite spot for family gatherings and perfect for long, leisurely meals at well-stocked tables.
Batumi is not just about sights and attractions but also its unique flavours and aromas. Make sure to set aside time to savour the city’s culinary pleasures.
Evening Walk Along the New Boulevard
A stroll along Batumi’s seaside boulevard is the perfect way to unwind. Bustling with activity until late at night, the boulevard offers a lively atmosphere with music, food stalls, beer gardens, and wide pathways for walking.
You can also rent bikes, scooters, or rickshaws, with designated lanes ensuring that pedestrians and riders enjoy the space without conflicts.
Dancing Fountains at Ardagani Lake. Batumi by night
End your day by watching the dancing fountains at Ardagani Lake, located on New Boulevard. This stunning show combines water, light, music, and laser effects.
The evening performances are a spectacular sight, with water streams moving in sync with the music to create dynamic displays. The vibrant lights and lasers add to the magical ambience. If you want to see the show, it can be viewed from specially designed platforms around the lake.
For directions, visit visitajara.com, which features an interactive map of Batumi and the Ajara region.
Batumi at night, with its illuminated skyline and vibrant attractions, offers a perfect conclusion to your weekend exploration.
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