What to See in Batumi: Top 20 Must-See Attractions in the City and Its Surrounding Areas

Batumi is unlike any other city in Georgia. It feels like another world, with a unique atmosphere, distinct architecture, and a pleasant climate. There’s plenty to explore in Batumi throughout the year, not just during the peak season. This article will highlight the most interesting attractions to see in Batumi.

The main and most popular local attraction is the Seaside Park, also known as Batumi Boulevard. Construction began in 1881, with German landscapers working on its design. Today, the boulevard stretches over 7 kilometers and is divided into “new” and “old” sections. The park is continuously being improved, with new trees and flowers being planted and cafes opening up. During peak season, the boulevard comes alive with restaurants, bars, clubs, and amusement parks that you can enjoy while taking a stroll.

From personal experience: You can rent a bike near the Ferris wheel and ride along the waterfront for an hour to see the entire city. This gives you a great sense of how the city has changed over time.

The stunning Neptune Fountain is located in the center of Theater Square. The gilded statue of Neptune is surrounded by four mermaids, and he gestures as if to demonstrate his control over the sea. This sculpture is inspired by the original Fountain of Neptune in Bologna, Italy. 

Just behind the fountain, you’ll find the beautiful building with columns that houses the Batumi Drama Theater, which officially opened in 1952. Today, performances are held there in Georgian. 

The Astronomical Clock was installed near Europe Square in 2011. Its operation is explained on an information panel opposite the building. The clock displays:

• The position and phases of the Moon
• The current zodiac sign of the Sun
• Information about meridians
• Sunrise and sunset times

In the heart of the city, right by the Astronomical Clock, lies a beautiful square that is easy to recognize thanks to the towering sculpture of Medea holding the Golden Fleece (which is indeed gilded). This sculpture symbolizes Georgia’s prosperity and its connection to the European world. The square also features a fountain where children usually play during hot weather.

This small park by Lake Nurigeli is a popular spot for leisurely walks. Established in 1881, the park’s landscaping was designed by French gardener d’Alfonso. During the season, amusement rides operate here, and there’s a nearby zoo. At the park’s entrance from the seaside, you’ll find a fountain with a stone that appears to float 10 meters above the water.

Batumi is home to two singing fountains: one located on Batumi Boulevard near the Registry Office, which resembles a dolphin in shape (it’s also on the list of must-see places). This fountain features 25 jets that shoot water up to 15 meters high, dancing in sync with music (jazz, Georgian tunes, or contemporary tracks).

The second singing fountain, a big one, complete with a light show, is situated in Seaside Park by Lake Ardagan. Installed in 2009, this fountain hosts performances every evening during the high season after sunset (at 9:00 PM), where it “dances” to classical music.

The famous painter Ivan Aivazovsky visited Batumi in 1890. To commemorate his trip, he planted a magnolia tree in the courtyard of the Armenian church. Today, this tall tree boasts a lush canopy. You will see it from afar.

In the Turkish Quarter, you can experience the vibe of Istanbul. This area is filled with Turkish cafes serving tea, baklava, and traditional dishes. On Kutaisi Street, you can also visit the Orta Jame Mosque.

Tourists often flock to see another modern attraction—the upside-down restaurant, Himshiashvili. Located near Lake Ardagani and close to the Singing Fountain, this building is visually constructed upside down. However, the interior resembles a typical restaurant, although some elements are also inverted.

No list of things to see in Batumi would be complete without mentioning this iconic cafe on Batumi Boulevard. Situated near the Hilton Hotel and close to the singing fountains, this colorful mosaic building had been abandoned since 2000. Recently, it has been fully restored by Hilton.

This cathedral is built in Gothic style which is pretty rare for Georgia. Constructed between 1898 and 1903 as a Roman Catholic church funded by parishioners, it now serves as an Orthodox church. The building is adorned with sculptures of apostles and vibrant stained glass windows.

Batumi Port has been operational since 1878 and remains the largest transportation and logistics hub in Georgia, as well as the country’s deepest port. If you take a stroll along the port, you’ll see large ships and loading operations in action.

Piazza is a charming, small square designed in a Venetian style. At its center lies the largest mosaic in Europe, crafted from marble sourced from 15 different countries. Here, you can enjoy a cup of coffee, dine at one of the nearby restaurants, and admire the picturesque architectural style. It’s no wonder this piazza is affectionately referred to as the “little sister” of St. Mark’s Square in Venice.

The lower station of the Argo cable car is located between the port and Wonder Park. A ticket for the ride costs 30 lari, allowing you to travel approximately 2,500 meters above the city to an observation deck with breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. The cable car operates from 10 AM to 10 PM.

Wonder Park is a symbol of modern Batumi. This spacious promenade by the port is a major tourist destination filled with famous attractions:

• The Georgian Alphabet Tower (you can take an elevator to the top for 20 lari, where there’s an observation deck and a bar)
• The dynamic statue of Ali and Nino represents love that transcends boundaries and prejudices
• A Ferris wheel (a ticket for one ride costs 10 lari)

Georgia’s largest botanical garden is located just a few kilometers from the city on a hillside overlooking the sea. The garden is home to a rich variety of rare plants and trees, divided into themed zones that can be explored on foot or via an electric bus for an additional fee. Notable features include viewing platforms offering stunning views of the sea and coastline. Admission is 20 lari.

You can order a GoTrip transfer from Batumi to the Botanical Garden. A driver will wait for you and then bring you back.

Located about 30 kilometers from Batumi, Makhuntseti Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Adjara at 30 meters high. It’s a great spot for swimming during warm weather. Visitors to Makhuntseti Waterfall can also check out the historic Queen Tamar Arch Bridge over the mountain river nearby.

Book a transfer from Batumi to Makhuntseti Waterfall

Another picturesque waterfall is located just 19 kilometers from Batumi, standing at 20 meters tall. As water cascades down the cliff, it splits into shimmering streams, creating a stunning visual effect. Surrounding the waterfall is a lush subtropical forest of boxwood that makes for lovely walking trails.

This pristine subtropical forest, often referred to as Adjara’s jungle, is just 25 kilometers from Batumi. Visitors can choose from two trekking options and several active recreation activities (zip-lining, horseback riding, rope parks, etc.). These activities come at an additional cost.

Another large national park located 30 kilometers from Batumi features ancient trees and offers two trekking routes—8 km and 6 km long. Inside the park, you’ll find a historical museum, castle ruins, and waterfalls, along with beautiful views from various observation points.

All these natural attractions can be explored through organized tours with transfers provided by GoTrip. Check out our travel options!

The distance from Tbilisi to Batumi is approximately 400 kilometers. This route is quite popular, and you have several transportation options to choose from.

By Plane

For 125 lari, you can fly to Batumi from Natakhtari Airport, which is 23 kilometers from Tbilisi. Flights operate daily, although the schedule can vary. Tickets are available on the carrier’s website, vanillasky.ge. You can take a free shuttle from downtown Tbilisi to Natakhtari Airport, but you will need to take a transfer from Batumi Airport to your final destination. It’s possible to book a GoTrip transfer from the airport in advance. A driver will meet you with a name sign and bring to your hotel.

By Train

Trains depart three times a day from Tbilisi Central Station at 8:00 AM, 10:25 AM, and 5:05 PM. The journey takes about five hours. You can purchase tickets for economy class (35 lari) or first class (75 lari) either at the station or on the railway website, railway.ge.

By Taxi

Taking a taxi to Batumi will cost between 300 and 400 lari. Note that any stops or waiting time along the way will incur additional charges. Taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and demand. You cannot choose your driver through an app; the first available driver will be dispatched to you.

By Bus

Metro Georgia operates buses that leave three times a day at 12:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 11:59 PM from the central bus station in Tbilisi. A ticket costs 40 lari, and the trip takes about six and a half hours. Tickets can be purchased online.

By Minibus

Minibuses depart hourly from Didube Station in Tbilisi between 7:00 AM and midnight. Tickets cost 35 lari and are paid in cash directly to the driver.

By Car Rental

Renting a car starts at around 140 lari per day for a basic model, plus approximately 100 lari for fuel. Additional costs may include a child seat or a fee for returning the car on the same day. Rental companies may also require a deposit of $100 to $200.

By GoTrip Transfer

You can book a GoTrip transfer through the website. The service offers a fixed price for the trip (including waiting time and stops along the way, as well as child seats and water). You can choose your experienced and friendly driver based on reviews and the description of the vehicle. Payment is made in cash at the end of the ride without needing a deposit when booking. 

Book a transfer from Tbilisi to Batumi with free cancellation 

Regardless of which option you choose, traveling from Tbilisi to Batumi offers various experiences tailored to different budgets and preferences.