Batumi port

Since the Roman times, Batumi Port has been a key point in the maritime network. From 1878 to 1885, the status of “Porto-Franco” (freeport) played a significant role in the development of the city not only the port. The city and port expanded rapidly, primarily driven by the transport of oil from Baku, which spurred improvements in infrastructure. Prominent figures like the Nobel family, Rothschild, Samuel (founder of “Shell”), and Mantashev contributed to the port’s growth and modernization. Today, Batumi Port continues to serve as an important link in the Eurasian transport corridor, connecting Europe and Asia and supporting various cargo and passenger needs.

Statue of Ali and Nino;

The monument – Ali and Nino – dedicated to Caucasian “Romeo and Juliet” was inspired by the 1937 novel of the same name by Kurban Said, stands proudly on seashore of Batumi. This striking 8-meter-high sculpture, created by Georgian artist Tamar Kvesitadze, features two transparent steel figures that slowly move through each other every 10 minutes, symbolizing the eternal struggle and tragic love story between Azerbaijani Muslim – Ali and Georgian Christian – Nino. Their heart-wrenching story reflects a timeless message of love transcending nationality and belief.

Statue "Me, you and Batumi";

The sculpture “Me, You and Batumi” by Irakli Tsuladze celebrates deep-rooted coffee culture in Batumi. This enchanting monument features a man and a woman seated at a café table, frozen in the intimate ritual of sharing coffee. The artwork has quickly become a cherished landmark, captivating visitors with its elegant portrayal of Batumi’s vibrant social life and the timeless joy of a coffee shared.

The Alphabetic Tower;

The Alphabetic Tower, a striking creation by Spanish architects Alberto Domingo Cabo and Carlos Lázaro, was completed in 2010. Standing at an impressive 130 meters, this architectural marvel symbolizes the rich heritage of the Georgian alphabet and its people. Its design mirrors the double helix of DNA, with two ascending helix bands that showcase 33 Georgian letters, each measuring 4 meters in height. At the tower’s heart, an exposed elevator shaft ascends to its crowning monumental silver sphere that caps the structure offering panoramic view of the city. At the very pinnacle of the sphere, a stylish café awaits, offering caffeinated beverages. Whether it’s the invigorating drinks or the mesmerizing scenery, this high-altitude café-restaurant promises a truly memorable escape above the city.

Batumi Lighthouse;

The Batumi Lighthouse, with over 150 years of history, stands as a proud symbol of the city’s maritime legacy. First lit in the 1890s, its beam reaches 14 nautical miles, guiding ships to safety. Designed by French engineers in 1882, its striking stone structure once housed the Batumi Meteorological Station and emergency rowboats. Though the outbuildings are gone, the lighthouse remains a vital navigational tool and a testament to Batumi’s nautical past, making it a must-see for history and sea lovers alike.

Batumi Boulevard and Michael D’Alphonse;

Stretch along 7-kilometer of the seaside, Batumi Boulevard is a lively destination filled with beach bars, café-lounges, restaurants and vibrant dancing fountains. The boulevard is not just a leisure spot but a showcase of unique vegetation, fascinating sculptures, architectural monuments and amusement rides for children. With over a century of history, its development began in 1881, led by French gardener Mikheil d’Alphonse, affectionately called the “Kind Genie of Batumi Seaside.” Batumi Boulevard is where nature, art, and history come together in perfect harmony, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, whether you’re strolling through its lush landscapes, admiring the sculptures, or enjoying the lively atmosphere by the sea.

Batumi Drama theater;

Batumi Drama Theatre, designed by I. Teplitsky in 1952, stands as a cultural landmark in the center of old Batumi. Since 1959, it proudly bears the name of Ilia Chavchavadze, one of Georgia’s most revered literary figures. With seating for 480 spectators, the theatre invites guests to immerse themselves in captivating performances. Beyond the stage, the theatre houses a fascinating museum that showcases its rich history, including archival materials, rare photo-video-audio recordings and detailed rehearsal diaries. Batumi Drama Theatre a place where the spirit of Georgian art and the legacy of performance come to life.

Statue of Neptune;

The monumental Neptune Fountain stands in front of Batumi’s Drama Theatre, featuring a gilded statue of Neptune on a towering pedestal. With a commanding gesture Neptune is surrounded by four elegant mermaids. Inspired by the 16th-century fountain from Bologna (Italy), the statue of Neptune symbolizes the deep ties of Batumi to the Black Sea.

Square of Europe;

Europe Square in Batumi is a charming mix of history and modern life, known for its beautiful XIX-XX century architecture. The statue of Medea is the central monument of the square. Medea is holding the golden fleece, that symbolizes the glory and cultural significance of ancient Colchis, as the proto-Georgian state. One of the eye-catching landmarks of the square is Astronomical Clock, crafted in Germany in 2010. The clock displays not only the time but also the positions of the sun and moon, moon phases, and the time of sunrise and sunset. Europe Square is surrounded with hotels, restaurants, and cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy local and European cuisine. It is also a lively hub for events, hosting New Year celebrations, Christmas markets, concerts, and the Batumoba festival (the day of the city-Batumi), making it a vibrant part of the city’s culture.

Batumi Cathedral named after the Nativity of the Virgin Mary (on request only);

Batumi Cathedral, originally built as a Catholic church in 1903, stands as a testament to the city’s rich and diverse history. Commissioned by the prominent Zubalashvili brothers, Georgian Catholic businessmen, this religious center was designed by renowned Polish architect Aleksander Rogojski in the striking Gothic Revival style: Its towering spires and intricate details evoke a sense of grandeur and timeless beauty. During the Soviet era, the cathedral was closed and repurposed into a high-voltage laboratory, a stark contrast to its original intent. However, in 1989, this historic building found new life when it was transferred to the Georgian Orthodox Church, restoring its spiritual role and reconnecting it to Batumi’s religious and cultural heritage.

Batumi Mosque (on request only);

The Batumi Mosque, a cherished center for the city’s sizable Muslim community, stands as a living testament to Batumi’s rich historical tapestry. It was commissioned in 1866 by Aslan Beg Khimshiashvili, a Muslim Georgian nobleman. The mosque’s golden dome and white minaret stand out, contributing to Batumi’s multicultural urban environment. The entrance is adorned with carved doors featuring Georgian motifs, including vine patterns and yellow flowers. The building’s exterior is plastered and painted white, while the interior boasts colorful, detailed paintings by artists from Lazistan, reflecting the region’s artistic heritage. After being closed during the Soviet era, the Batumi Mosque underwent renovations in the 1990s, including the construction of a new minaret in 1995. Today, it continues to serve as a vital center for the Muslim spiritual and cultural activities in the city.

Batumi Catholic Church (on request only);

The Church of the Holy Spirit in Batumi is a remarkable Roman Catholic church that symbolizes both the revival of faith and the resilience of cultural heritage. Erected in the late 1990s by the Georgian architects – Oleg Pataridze and Giorgi Baghoshvili, it was consecrated in 2000, marking a significant moment in religious history of Batumi. The Church of the Holy Spirit stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Batumi’s Catholic community. Its modern design, crafted with both reverence and innovation, reclaims and revitalizes the city’s Roman Catholic presence. The church not only enriches Batumi’s architectural landscape but also serves as a powerful symbol of religious and cultural renewal of the post-Soviet era.

Batumi Synagogue (on request only);

Designed by architect Semion Vulkovich, Batumi Synagogue was completed in 1904. The architect drew inspiration from the elegant synagogues of Amsterdam and The Hague, resulting in a building that stood as a testament to architectural beauty and cultural significance. For over two decades, the synagogue was a vibrant center for the Ashkenazi Jewish community in Batumi. However, in 1929, the Soviet government repurposed it for use by various sports organizations, shifting its role from a place of worship to a venue for athletic activities. The history of the building took a positive turn in 1993 when it was returned to the Jewish community. After undergoing restoration, it reopened as a synagogue in 1998. In 2011, the synagogue was recognized as a cultural heritage site. Today, the synagogue continues to serve small but active Jewish community of Batumi. It also draws visitors from Israel and around the world.

Armenian Church (on request only);

In 1879 the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church, known as Surb Prkich, was established in Batumi through the efforts of Priest – Konstandin Ter-Stepanyan. The original wooden structure quickly proved insufficient, prompting the construction of a new building. But due to financial challenges, construction faced significant delays and extended over a quarter of a century. In 1899, designed by Austrian architect – Robert Marfeld the new church was completed. It was constructed from durable burnt brick in the cross-domed architectural style. During the Soviet era, the church was repurposed first, as a movie rental warehouse and later, as an astrophysical observatory. After the Soviet Union collapsed, the church underwent extensive reconstruction. It was reopened and restored to its original function as a center for Armenian religious life, continuing to serve as an important place of worship for Armenian community in Batumi.

Argo cable car;

Since its installation in 2013, the ARGO cable car has welcomed over two million passengers, quickly becoming one of famous attractions of Batumi. The route stretches over 2,586 meters, ending at the scenic heights of Anuria Mountain, 256 meters above sea level. With 20 gondolas, each offering eight seats, the 15-minute ride offers more than just transportation—it provides breathtaking views of Batumi’s skyline, its vibrant port, and the endless sweep of the Black Sea. But the experience doesn’t end at the summit. Upon arrival, visitors can explore ARGO’s cultural-entertainment complex, where panoramic view and the restaurant make ARGO a perfect destination for adventure and relaxation alike.

Batumi Dolphinarium (booking in advance and only on request);

The Batumi Dolphinarium, originally opened in 1975, made its grand return in 2011 after a 20-year pause and has since become a beloved highlight of the seaside town. As part of the Black Sea Flora and Fauna Scientific Research Center, the dolphinarium boasts a design by renowned American companies like – TJP Engineering and RCK. It meets the highest modern standards for marine mammal care, with water recirculated every two hours, purified by ozone, and closely monitored for temperature, salinity, and PH levels. The interactive shows offer an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages in the Batumi Dolphinarium. In response to growing demand, especially during the summer season, the dolphinarium hosts three daily shows. Its amphitheater, with a seating capacity of 887 across four sectors, provides excellent views of the performances. Accessibility is a priority, with lifts and wheelchair ramps ensuring all guests can enjoy the experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Batumi Dolphinarium offers a fun and memorable experience, making it a must-visit attraction of the city.

Saint Nicholas Church;

The Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas, over 150 years old, is one of captivating landmarks of Batumi. Built in 1865-1871 by local Greeks, this stunning domed church reflects the elements of Byzantine architecture. The interior of St. Nicholas Church features wall paintings from 2002, adding a modern touch to its rich past. On the western wall, a memorial stone with a Greek inscription marks its origin: “The Greek Church of St. Nicholas. Construction period is 1865-1871.” In the early 20th century, the church was gifted sacred icons by the Greeks from Khiros Island, including icons of St. Nicholas, St. George, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Now part of the Georgian Orthodox Church, St. Nicholas invites visitors to explore its timeless charm and peaceful atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into rich cultural and religious heritage of Batumi.

Batumi Piazza;

A vibrant gathering spot for both locals and visitors, Batumi Piazza was designed by the renowned Georgian architect Vazha Orbeladze and opened in 2009. This charming square is surrounded by a variety of hotels and restaurants, making it a lively hub in the heart of old Batumi. One of the striking features is its magnificent mosaic, created by the Georgian-Swiss designer – Natali De Pita-Amirejibi. Completed in 2010, this mosaic is one of the largest figurative marble mosaics in Europe, spanning over 106 square meters. Crafted in Abu Dhabi by Fantini Mosaic and transported to Batumi, the mosaic is made from over 88 million meticulously cut marble tiles. The mosaic beautifully captures the connection between the endless motion of the sea and ever-changing rhythm of daily life, making it a perfect symbol of vibrant seaside city – Batumi.

Coffee break at Batumi Piazza (on request);