Batumi: The Black Sea’s Las Vegas !

Picture a city that once had half of its land covered in swamps, where eucalyptus trees were strategically planted to reclaim the land and turn it into something livable. Yes, I’m talking about Batumi.

Batumi is a city built on a vast plain between lush green mountains and miles of coastline. The capital of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, one of Georgia’s three autonomous regions, the city combines mountains and sea with its wide boulevards lined with magnolia trees, parks adorned with statues, clean beaches, and magnificent nature. Coming here after Tbilisi gave me the feeling of being in a European city.

In the city center, massive hotels with casinos from major international chains are expanding, aiming to become the “Las Vegas” of the region in the near future. The city continues to grow and develop each year.

The sea is accessible from everywhere along the coast. Although the beach has a rather rocky structure, the fierce waves of the Black Sea have taken on a calmer tone in Batumi.

After checking into the hotel, I headed towards Batumi Boulevard. The boulevard, running parallel to the Black Sea coast, with its cafes and parks, is definitely a must-visit spot.

Batum Piazza Square is considered one of the central spots in the city. It resembles the squares of European cities and is one of the most beautiful places in Batumi. The square serves as a meeting point for the city and hosts small concerts. Its architectural features are reminiscent of a typical Italian square. The square also has a wonderful cafes where you can take a break and enjoy a coffee, and it stands out with its mosaic pavement.

This area is also considered a central location in the city. St. Nicholas Church, one of the most beautiful structures in Batumi, is right across from Piazza Square. The Armenian Apostolic Church, originally built from wood in 1873 and later rebuilt by Austrian architects in 1880, is very close to the square.

The Theater Square is one of the most beautiful squares in the city. In the center of the square stands an impressive fountain with a statue of Poseidon, the god of the sea and earthquakes, holding a trident. The square is bustling at all hours of the day. Also located in the same square is the Batumi Opera House, which has a 125-year history and boasts a grand architecture that contrasts with the surrounding communist-era residential buildings.

Europe Square is the main square of the city. The statue of Medea holding a golden fleece stands out in the square. The golden fleece symbolizes grandeur, wealth, and power in Greek mythology.

The astronomical clock is located in Europe Square. Like the ones in Prague’s Old Town Square and Vienna’s Jewish Quarter, this clock chimes every hour and displays the positions of the sun and moon.

In the early years after its construction, Chacha Tower used to flow with chacha, a traditional Georgian drink, for 10 minutes every day at 7:00 pm. Although chacha no longer flows from the tower, it is still known as Chacha Tower.

The Alphabet Tower, designed to resemble the structure of DNA, symbolizes the uniqueness of the Georgian alphabet. Standing 130 meters tall, the tower’s domed structure and modern design caught my attention.

The Ali and Nino Sculpture has become a symbol of the city. Created in 2010 by Tamara Kvesitadze and Paata Sanaiya, this moving sculpture of love is made of steel and stands 8 meters high. It depicts the love story between Georgian princess Nino and Azerbaijani socialite Ali. The figures move towards each other and merge every 10 minutes.

Batum, to me, is quite different from Tbilisi. Each city has its own unique ambiance. Legal gambling tourism is very popular here. The city is rapidly developing with new constructions featuring some of the most interesting examples of modern architecture. By day it’s calm, but by night it’s vibrant, and the city is aiming to become a second Vegas.

Batumi is a great choice for a weekend getaway. Its unique experiences and flavors offer an unforgettable discovery opportunity for everyone who visits the city. Finally, make sure to try Haçapuri, Hinkal, Elarci, Georgian wine, and Chacha before leaving Batumi :)