Holiday in Batumi

What makes Batumi special as a destination?

Batumi, the capital of the autonomous republic of Adjara on the Georgian Black Sea coast, is one of the most fascinating cities in the Caucasus — a place where post-Soviet architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers, subtropical gardens meet pebble beaches, and oriental bazaars meet European nightlife. The transformation of Batumi in the last two decades is remarkable. Once a sleepy port city, it has turned into the "Las Vegas of the Black Sea," with a glittering skyline that lights up in all colors at night. The Alphabetic Tower, a 130-meter high tower in the shape of a DNA helix featuring the 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet, has become the symbol of the new Batumi. The Radisson Blu and the Ali-and-Nino sculpture, two embracing metal figures that rotate in a circle daily, shape the coastline. Yet behind the modern facade lies a city with depth. The old town, with its colorful wooden balconies, the Venetian-style Piazza Square, and the narrow streets filled with cafes and wine bars, preserves the charm of old Batumi. The Botanical Garden, one of the largest and oldest on the Black Sea, stretches over 113 hectares on the cliffs above the city and hosts over 5,000 plant species from five continents. Batumi's subtropical climate — unique for the Caucasus — allows for the cultivation of tea, citrus fruits, and even bamboo. The surroundings offer spectacular excursions: the Gonio Fortress, one of the oldest fortresses on the Black Sea, the Makhuntseti waterfalls, and the hot springs in the hinterland. Georgian cuisine, already one of the most exciting in the world, has developed its own expression in Adjara. The Adjarian Khachapuri, a boat-shaped cheese bread with egg and butter, is the most iconic dish of the region and famous throughout Georgia. In the coastal restaurants, it is paired with freshly caught Black Sea fish. Batumi is also known as a party city. The beachfront promenade (Bulvar), which stretches seven kilometers along the coast, becomes a vibrant runway in the evening, and the city's clubs and bars attract an international crowd. At the same time, Batumi, with its affordable prices, welcoming culture, and relaxed atmosphere, is a hidden gem for long-term travelers and digital nomads.