Batumi: Sea, Mountains and Road Trips Around Adjara
The capital of Adjara is all about contrast: historic quarters next to modern architecture, palm trees next to mountain peaks, quiet streets next to a lively seafront. And because distances are short, Batumi is a perfect base for road trips around the region.
What to see in Batumi
- Batumi Boulevard and the seafront — walks by the sea, palms, cafés and great views.
- Old Batumi — historic buildings, cosy streets, squares and courtyards.
- The "Ali and Nino" sculpture — one of the city's symbols on the shore.
- The Argo cable car — panoramic views of Batumi, the sea and the mountains.
- Piazza — Italian-style architecture, restaurants and cafés.
- Europe Square — the heart of the historic centre.
- The dolphinarium and aquarium — good for families.
- The Ferris wheel — next to the boulevard and "Ali and Nino".
- Adjarian food — try Adjarian khachapuri, fish dishes and local wines.
- Modern architecture — skyscrapers and unusual hotels along the coast that contrast sharply with the old town.
Day trips from Batumi by car
The main advantage of a car is that you are not limited to the city. There are many places around Batumi for a day out.
Makhuntseti waterfall and Queen Tamar's bridge
One of the most popular drives. A scenic waterfall and an old stone arch bridge traditionally linked to the era of Queen Tamar. The road winds through green mountain gorges, so the drive itself is part of the trip.
Keda
On the way into the mountains, look at Keda and the villages around it. The resort atmosphere of Batumi is gone: the road climbs, with forests, rivers and small settlements all around.
Batumi Botanical Garden
Close to the city, so it is an easy drive even if you only have a little free time.
Mtirala National Park
For nature and hiking trails, head towards Mtirala National Park.
Sarpi and the Turkish border
In the opposite direction, drive along the coast to Sarpi, a small seaside village by the Turkish border.
One-day itineraries
Mountains: Batumi → Makhuntseti → Queen Tamar's bridge → Keda → mountain villages → Batumi. Leave in the morning, spend a few hours in the mountains, have lunch on the way and be back by evening.
Coast: Batumi → Botanical Garden → Chakvi → Kobuleti → Batumi. A calmer day combining the sea, nature and small coastal towns.
Why explore Batumi by car
You can see Batumi on foot, but a car opens up a different side of the region: in a few days you can combine the city, the sea, the Botanical Garden and the mountains. Do not over-pack the plan — in Adjara the road itself is part of the journey: mountain serpentines, small villages, rivers and unexpected viewpoints are often as interesting as the planned sights. Morning by the sea, afternoon in the mountains, evening on the boulevard — that mix is what makes Batumi special.