Batumi is one of Georgia's most beautiful cities on the Black Sea. And it is also a Georgian city full of different contrasts. The city is known for its beaches with deep blue water, but also for its rich cultural heritage that is waiting to be discovered. Anyone visiting Batumi in Georgia will find themselves surrounded by exotic landscapes with palm trees on the so-called Batumi Boulevard. And you will experience a mixture of different types of architecture and leisure activities. In this article, we want to introduce you to beautiful Batumi and why it is an absolute must-see when travelling to Georgia. Discover with us what experiences and sights a visit to Batumi has to offer. And why the Georgian city is worth a visit.
The history of Batumi and it's cultural influences
Batumi is a harbour city on the coast of the Black Sea in Georgia. It was originally founded as a colony of Genoa called “Lo Vati“ but was later conquered by the Ottoman Turks and then by the Russians. Batumi is located in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, which is located on the southern coast of Georgia.
In 1578, Batumi became part of the Ottoman Empire and was given the name "Batoum" by the Turks. In 1878, Russia regained the city after a war with Turkey. The city became an important naval base for Russia's Black Sea fleet. After being conquered by Soviet Russia in 1921, Batumi was returned to Georgia and became part of what would later become the Soviet Union. The city continued to be an important harbour on the Black Sea.
Batumi Boulevard: many sights, bars and resuarants
Batumi is located in the west of Georgia on the Black Sea and is the second largest city in the country after the capital of Georgia (Tbilisi) with a population of around 170,000. The city has undergone a rapid transformation in recent years and has become a popular tourist destination. Batumi Boulevard, which stretches for several kilometres along the Black Sea coast and is lined with many great bars, restaurants and attractions, is particularly well-known.
Architecture in Batumi – a mixture of different eras
The architecture of Batumi's old town has been characterised by different eras, including Ottoman, Soviet and modern architecture. There are many well-preserved historic Ottoman-style buildings in the old town of Batumi, such as the Centre for Art and Music in Batumi. Soviet architecture is of course also visible in Batumi, which gives rise to a very interesting comparison between the styles.
A historic promenade along the harbour called "Old Boulevard" is also worth a visit. It is a must for all visitors interested in history. There you can admire many beautiful examples of impressive architecture.
But of course there are also many modern buildings in the city, which have been built in recent years by international architects and strongly characterise the cityscape.
The Alphabet Tower – on of Batumi's landmarks
The Alphabet Tower is an architectural masterpiece and an important landmark of Batumi. The 130-metre-high tower was opened in 2012 and is one of the tallest skyscrapers in Georgia.
The tower in Batumi is so named because it represents the Georgian alphabet - each floor of the tower symbolises a letter of the alphabet. It has special lighting that transforms it into a beautifully illuminated landmark of Batumi at night. It is an impressive example of the modern architecture in Georgia and an absolute must-see when travelling to Batumi.
THE Batumi Dolphinarium and the Batumi Aquarium – experience sea creatures up close
The Batumi Dolphinarium is also a popular attraction for tourists who want to see dolphins, sea lions and other sea creatures up close while travelling. The Batumi Aquarium also offers many marine animals.
THE art installation Ali and Nino
There is a wonderful art installation in Batumi called "Ali and Nino". Locals also refer to the sculpture as a "love statue". It is located on Batumi Boulevard near the Chacha Tower and the Alphabet Tower (and of course also near our flat).
Ali and Nino were designed by Georgian artist Tamara Kvesitadze. The statue shows two people - a male and a female figure, who physically move towards each other and seem to merge at a certain point. A truly heart-wrenching and impressive monument near the centre of Batumi.
.png?width=2000&height=1125&name=Meta-Bild%20Website%20(3).png)
Ali and Nino in Batumi: a Symbol of reconciliation and love
Ali and Nino represent the love between a Muslim Azerbaijani and a Christian Georgian woman, portrayed in a well-known novel by the Azerbaijani author Kurban Said. It is, so to speak, the counterpart to Romeo and Juliet in Batumi.
But the art installation in Batumi is more than just an impressive technical achievement, it is also a symbol of reconciliation and love between different cultures and religions. It has also become a landmark of Batumi and attracts thousands of visitors every year who are fascinated by the history and beauty of the sculpture.
Botanical garden in Batumi – a spectacular excursion into nature
The Botanical Garden in the coastal city of Batumi is a must for all nature lovers. With its exotic plants, some from the tropics and some from the temperate zone, it is a truly unique place in Georgia.
The views of the sea and the surrounding mountains make the visit even more spectacular. The park is also home to many species of animals and birds, including over 100 bird species. The giant trees, such as the 125-year-old sequoia, are particularly impressive.
The Botanical Garden of Batumi is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world and is home to more than 5,000 plant species from all over the world. Among other things, a very special tree grows there. This tree fell to the ground more than 30 years ago, but it refuses to stop growing. Instead, 15 new trees are now growing from it. An incredible sight.
ALSO Well worth a visit: Gonio fortress
Gonio Fortress is also located near Batumi and is one of the oldest historical sites in Georgia. It has an eventful history dating back to a time when Batumi was still part of the Roman Empire. Many legends and stories surround the fortress, including the one that it was the place where St Matthias, one of the apostles of Jesus, was buried.
The Batumi ART museum and it's important collection
Anyone interested in art and culture should also visit the Batumi Archaeological Museum or the Adjara Museum of Art. There you can see important collections of archaeological artefacts and works of art by Georgian artists.
Batumi offers an extremely wide range of beautiful views. For example, there is Anuria Mountain, which can be reached by cable car. It offers a truly breathtaking view over the city of Batumi.
The nightlife of Batumi
Batumi is also known for its nightlife. There are many bars, clubs and restaurants playing pop, hip-hop, R&B, techno, and traditional Georgian music. Depending on the venue, the style of music can vary more and more.
Las Vegas on the Black Sea: the best casinos in Batumi
If you are travelling to Batumi, you can look forward to a variety of casinos awaiting you. The city on the Black Sea has become a real magnet for gambling fans - and not without reason. In recent years, numerous international casino operators have opened their doors in Batumi and offer a wide range of games and entertainment.
One of the best-known casinos in Batumi is the Peace Casino, which is housed in the Sheraton Hotel. A huge selection of slot machines, table games and poker tournaments await you here. The Leogrand Hotel & Casino and the Empire Casino in the Le Meridien Hotel also offer an impressive selection of games and luxurious facilities.
A visit to the Casino International is also worthwhile. There you will also find a variety of games, cocktails and snacks.
All in all, Batumi offers the right casino experience for every taste. Whether you are an experienced player or simply looking for a fun evening full of excitement and entertainment, you are guaranteed to find what you are looking for here.
Activities - What else is there to do in Batumi?
A holiday in Batumi Georgia with its beaches and New Boulevard offers plenty of activities for travellers of all ages. A walking tour through the city centre even has a Ferris wheel.
There are plenty of activities for travellers of all ages in Batumi. The beach on the Black Sea is an absolute highlight, where you can sunbathe, swim and enjoy water sports such as kite surfing or jet skiing.
Location of our apartment? A very charming neighbourhood of Batumi
The district around Luka Asatiani Street is a charming neighbourhood in the centre of Batumi and a popular place for tourists who want to explore the city. It is a historic area that is home to many old buildings, streets and squares.
In the area surrounding the apartment you will find many shops, cafés and restaurants offering not only Georgian specialities but also international cuisine. It is the perfect place to get to know the local culture and way of life in Batumi and immerse yourself in the unique flair of this absolutely vibrant region in Georgia.
Luka Asatiani Street itself is a major thoroughfare in the district and provides an excellent starting point to reach other attractions in Batumi within walking distance. Anyone travelling to Batumi should go for a walk and explore Luka Asatiani Street. A truly fascinating area of this charming city.
Our beautiful apartment in Batumi Georgia
There are of course many places to stay in the Batumi region. But we're going to go out on a limb and say that no accommodation in Batumi compares to our apartment. Like each of our Sisters of Paradise apartments, the one in Batumi is unquestionably a blend of glamour, modernity and comfort. And because each flat is looked after by wonderful hosts, we don't need a reception desk like a 5-star hotel.
Apartment in Batumi centre
Our design apartment in Batumi offers travellers a truly incomparable experience. With its size of 100 square metres and its cosy veranda, it offers plenty of space for travellers who want to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or simply relax. On the balcony you can enjoy a cosy breakfast and relax wonderfully. Or you can end the evening with a glass of Bagrationi from the fridge and our delicious pasta party kit.
The apartment has a king-size bed and high-quality bed linen made from Egyptian cotton, as well as velvety-soft towels from Möve. The living and dining area is furnished with an extra-large table and sofa, and the fully equipped kitchen has a coffee machine with sustainable coffee capsules for a nice breakfast.
In the bathroom and guest toilet, the hair and body wash from I Want You Naked is of course available, as in all our Sisters of Paradise accommodations. Guests can use the comfy library with reading chair, turn on the Bluetooth music box from Bose and relax on the handmade designer furniture and design elements of the accommodation.
Large apartment in Batumi with WiFi
The apartment offers WiFi, a Smart TV, a hairdryer in the bathroom and a shopping service on request. Are you looking for an apartment in Batumi on the Black Sea coast? An accommodation with a great location, WiFi, luxury and comfort away from the crowds? Then you should definitely take a look at our accommodation in Batumi.
