Batumi is a beautiful beach city in Georgia, with green mountains and cool buildings like the DNA-shaped tower. It’s a great place to visit if you want something different from crowded tourist spots and don’t want to spend too much.
Overview of Batumi:
Surrounded by the Black Sea coast and lush green mountains, Batumi is Georgia’s beach destination. This city in the Adjara region is a combo of centuries-old beauty with ultra-modern architecture, it’s something different from the usual European hotspots. It’s home to some of the world’s most unusual modern architecture, including a 130-meter-tall Technological University tower shaped like a DNA helix and the famous Alphabet Tower – a 130-meter structure displaying the unique Georgian alphabet letters.
If you’re planning a visit to Georgia but want to avoid crowds and high prices, Batumi should be on your radar. With affordable Georgia tour packages becoming increasingly popular among Indian travelers, this coastal gem offers a refreshing alternative to more mainstream destinations. Batumi has a subtropical climate which means pleasant temperatures most of the year, so it is perfect for a summer vacation.
What are the Key Highlights of Batumi?
- Batumi Boulevard: A 7km seaside promenade perfect for morning walks or evening strolls.
- Old Town Charm: Explore through cobblestone streets lined with colorful 19th-century buildings.
- Batumi Botanical Garden: One of the largest botanical gardens in the world, spanning 111 hectares. The panoramic sea views alone make it worth the visit. And, it’s a great place to escape when you need a break from the summer heat.
- Gonio Fortress: Just outside the city, this ancient Roman fortress dates back to the 1st century. It’s rumored to be the burial place of one of Jesus’s apostles.
- Cable Car Adventure: Take the Argo Cable Car for spectacular views of the entire coastline. The ride is short but sweet.
- Batumi Piazza: A stunning Italian-style square surrounded by beautiful buildings and musical fountains.
- Europe Square: Look out for the statue of Medea holding the Golden Fleece – a nod to Georgia’s ancient mythology. It’s a great spot for photos
Travel Tips & Essential Information of Batumi:
- Best Time to Visit: May to October offers warm temperatures perfect for beach time. September is the sweet spot – still warm but fewer tourists and better hotel rates.
- How to Reach: Batumi is compact and walkable, especially along the boulevard area. Local buses are really affordable (about 0.5 GEL/₹15). Taxis are affordable too.
- Currency Matters: The Georgian Lari (GEL) is the local currency. ATMs are plentiful, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants. Keep some cash handy for small shops and street food.
- Visa Information: Good news for foreign travelers! Georgia offers e-visa which can be obtained online before travel. The application process is straightforward.
- Accommodation Tips: Stay near the Boulevard for convenience. Budget travelers can find hostels for around ₹800-1200 per night, while mid-range hotels cost about ₹3000-5000. Book ahead during summer months when places fill up faster.
- Packing tips: Don’t forget swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for evenings. The seaside breeze can be refreshing but chilly.
