Travel guide · Georgia

Batumi Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Batumi is Georgia’s main Black Sea resort city, set against green subtropical hills close to the Turkish border. It pairs a long seaside boulevard and eye-catching modern architecture with a charming old town, a celebrated botanical garden and some of the country’s best-loved food. Book flights to Batumi with RwandAir and partner airlines.

Top things to do in Batumi

Batumi is a relaxed city for walking, eating and enjoying the sea, with mountains and gardens close by.

  • Batumi Boulevard — A long seafront promenade with gardens, cycle paths, cafés and pebble beaches.
  • Ali and Nino statue — A moving sculpture of two figures that slowly pass through each other, best seen in the evening.
  • Alphabet Tower — A landmark tower decorated with the letters of the Georgian alphabet.
  • Old Town and Europe Square — Elegant streets with restored buildings, cafés and the Medea statue.
  • Batumi Botanical Garden — Extensive hillside gardens at Green Cape with plants from many climate zones and sea views.
  • Gonio Fortress — A Roman-era fortress south of the city with well-preserved walls.
  • Adjarian khachapuri — Try the boat-shaped cheese bread topped with egg and butter, the region’s signature dish.

Best time to visit Batumi

Batumi has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers, mild winters and high rainfall throughout the year. July and August are the peak beach season, with warm sea temperatures and a lively atmosphere, but also the busiest period.

Late spring (May to June) and September offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, ideal for gardens and day trips into the mountains of Adjara. Autumn and winter are often rainy, though mild, and suit travellers interested in food and city life.

Getting from the airport

Batumi International Airport is located on the southern edge of the city, only a short drive from the centre and the seafront hotels.

Taxis are available outside the terminal, and ride-hailing apps operate in Batumi. City buses also link the airport area with the centre. Many hotels can arrange transfers, and the short distance makes arrival quick and straightforward.

Where to stay

Most travellers stay close to the sea, choosing between historic charm and modern high-rises.

  • Old Batumi — Walkable streets near Europe Square and Piazza, ideal for first-time visitors.
  • New Boulevard — Modern towers and resort hotels along the seafront, suited to beach holidays and families.
  • Gonio and Kvariati — Quieter coastal villages to the south with clearer water, good for relaxing stays.
  • Makhinjauri and Green Cape — Leafy areas north of the centre near the Botanical Garden.

Travel tips

  • Money: Cards are widely accepted; carry some lari for markets, small cafés and taxis.
  • Getting around: The centre is walkable, and taxis, buses and ride-hailing apps are easy to use.
  • Weather: Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella at any time of year.
  • Etiquette: Cover shoulders and knees in Orthodox churches; women may be asked to cover their hair.
  • Language: Learn a few Georgian greetings; English is common among younger people and in tourist areas.

Frequently asked questions

Which airport serves Batumi?

Batumi International Airport (BUS), on the southern edge of the city.

How do I get from the airport to the city centre?

Taxis, ride-hailing apps and city buses connect the airport with the centre, which is a short drive away.

What currency is used in Batumi?

The Georgian lari (GEL).

Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?

Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.

When is the best time to visit Batumi?

May to June and September for pleasant weather, or July to August for the full beach season.

Can I swim in the sea in Batumi?

Yes. Batumi’s beaches are mostly pebbly, and the sea is warmest from July to September.

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