12 Best Day Trips from Batumi in 2025 [With Local Tips & Maps]

Batumi, Georgia’s second-largest city, makes a perfect base for unforgettable day trips to UNESCO World Heritage sites and hidden gems along the Black Sea coast.

The city fascinates visitors as a major Black Sea hub, and the surrounding regions offer extraordinary experiences.  The newly designated Mtirala National Park stands proud as Georgia’s first Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site.  The big Kolkheti National Park stretches across 34,000 hectares of protected wetlands and hosts more than 200 bird species.  The region features unique attractions like the black magnetic sand beaches of Shekvetili and Ureki that are known for their healing properties.

Most destinations lie within a 30-kilometer radius of Batumi and remain surprisingly affordable.  Visitors can use public transport for just 30 tetri ($0.10), while private transfers start at 60 GEL ($20).  This piece covers the 12 best day trips that showcase the region’s natural beauty, historical sites and cultural heritage.

Mtsvane Kontskhi (Green Cape) & Batumi Botanical Garden

Mtsvane Kontskhi (Green Cape) sits 9 kilometers north of Batumi and ranks among Georgia’s most beautiful seaside resorts.  This coastal paradise rises 70-92 meters above sea level.  The area combines botanical wonders with seaside relaxation.

Green Cape Highlights and Scenic Views

Mountains meet sea to create a unique microclimate that makes Green Cape perfect for rejuvenation.  Visitors can see stunning views of the Black Sea and Batumi’s skyline from various spots.  Lush vegetation surrounds the area and creates a peaceful escape from city life.

Photography enthusiasts will find several marked lookouts.  One special spot lets you capture a passenger train as it emerges from a covered tunnel by the seashore.  The scene where forested hills meet blue waters creates picture-perfect moments.

Batumi Botanical Garden Trails and Flora

The Batumi Botanical Garden stands as the area’s crown jewel.  Russian botanist Andrei Krasnov founded this 111-year old garden in 1912.  The garden spans over 100 hectares and was one of the largest in the former Soviet Union.  Today it houses about 5,000 plants from 1,900 different species.

Nine geographic sections make up the garden.  Each showcases plants from East Asia, the Himalayas, Australia, New Zealand, North America, Mexico, South America, Europe, and the Transcaucasian region.  Visitors can choose from several marked trails:

• Route A: The favorite path features iconic views through Australian and New Zealand sections
• Trail K: Takes you to the garden’s peak with sweeping sea views
• Trail J: A steep climb through Subtropics and Exotic Plants zones

Garden treasures include a 125-year old flowering magnolia, 60 different eucalyptus species and a charming Japanese Garden with fountains, frog ponds and bonsai displays.

Green Cape Beach and Seafood Options

Mtsvane Kontskhi Beach lies below the cliffs.  The black-pebble shore provides a quiet spot to enjoy the Black Sea.  A scenic jetty stretches into the water and creates great photo opportunities.

Swimmers might prefer Makhinjauri Beach, which sits closer to Batumi.  Batumi Fish Market stands just a 10-minute drive from the beach.  Fresh catch arrives daily, and nearby restaurants will cook your selection.  Restaurant Bungalow Green Cape serves drinks and meals with ocean views – a perfect way to end your garden visit.

Mtirala National Park

Mtirala National Park sits just 25 kilometers east of Batumi.  This pristine mountain sanctuary stands as one of Georgia’s most remarkable natural treasures.  The park’s unique name—”Mtirala” means “to cry” in Georgian—comes from its distinction as Europe’s wettest location, with 4,500 mm of annual rainfall.

Mtirala National Park Hiking Trails

The park features two distinct hiking trails that suit different skill levels:

Tsablnari Trail (Trail №1) is a 7-kilometer circular route with a moderate climb from 260 to 445 meters.  This beginner-friendly trail starts at the Visitor Center and takes about 4 hours.  Your adventure begins with a ride across the Chakvistskali River in a manual cable car.  The path leads you through beautiful rhododendron shrubs that put on a spectacular show in spring.  Halfway along the trail, you can ride an exciting 220-meter zipline that soars above the forest canopy.

Tsivtskaro Trail (Trail №2) offers a more demanding two-day, 16-kilometer trek that climbs from 260 to 1,250 meters above sea level.  This medium-difficulty path weaves through ancient Colchic broad-leaved forests where you might spot brown bears, roe deer, martens and chamois.  Hikers can rest at a tourist shelter that fits eight people at the 9-kilometer point, complete with picnic spots and fire pits.

UNESCO Colchic Rainforest Significance

Mtirala National Park earned its UNESCO World Heritage status in 2021 as part of the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands site.  These ancient deciduous forests are relict ecosystems that survived ice age glacial cycles.

The park’s protected area is home to roughly 1,100 plant species and 500 vertebrate animal species.  This region has an incredibly high number of endemic species—plants and animals that exist nowhere else on Earth—making it similar to island ecosystems despite being on the mainland.  The park protects 44 globally threatened plant species and 50 endangered vertebrate species.

Mtirala is part of the Caucasus Global Biodiversity Hotspot and serves as one of two vital Arcto-Tertiary geoflora refuges in western Eurasia.  These forests are the foundations of plant development and provided sanctuary for species during prehistoric climate changes.

Mtirala National Park Transport Options

You can reach the park from Batumi in several ways:

• Shuttle Bus: Connects Batumi bus station to Chakvistavi (Visitor Center) on Mondays and Fridays at 8:00 am and 5:50 pm.  The 45-minute ride costs 3 GEL.
• Combined Transport: Catch a minibus from Batumi to Khala village (runs multiple times daily), then walk 7 kilometers to the Visitor Center.
• Taxi: The most convenient choice at 80-100 GEL for direct service from Batumi.
• Organized Tours: Half-day hiking tours leave Batumi at 2:00 pm and return by 6:00 pm.  These include transportation and guide services.

Good hiking boots are a must, especially on the waterfall trails.  Pack water and snacks for your trip, though you’ll find local cafes near the park that serve fresh river trout, shashlik and traditional Georgian dishes.

Machakhela National Park

Machakhela National Park, a former militarized zone during WWII, lies approximately 35km southeast of Batumi along the Georgia–Turkey border.  This hidden gem shields ancient Colchic rainforests that date back 10 million years and gives visitors an unmatched mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Machakhela Cultural Heritage and Museums

A modern exhibition hall stands at the park’s center and helps visitors discover the rich history of the Machakhela Gorge.  This remarkable space displays minerals, rare plant specimens, and vibrant installations that show how the region’s environmental and social landscape changed through centuries.  The historical-ethnographic museum in Zemo Chkhutuneti village will captivate history buffs with its collection of over 800 exhibits that showcase local culture, religion, and history.

Several architectural treasures make up the park’s distinct heritage.  The Middle Ages Tskhemlara Arch Bridge sits 27km from Batumi.  The 6th-7th century Gvara Fortress rests near where the Chorokhi and Machakhela rivers meet.  The 9th-13th century Chkhutuneti Fortress adds to these marvels.  Pillbox guns still stand as silent witnesses to the area’s military past.

Machakhela Hiking and Nature Experiences

Nature enthusiasts can choose from three marked trails in the park.  The Archangel Mountain trail (8km), Kokoleti trail and Twin Waterfall trail start from the National Park Administration Center in Acharisaghmarti village.  The warm, humid climate and Black Sea’s proximity have gifted Machakhela with rich biodiversity.  More than 190 bird species call this place home, along with deer, otters, and bears.

Late May/early June or September/October work best for first-time visitors since summer months can get too hot.  Private hiking tours provide professional trekking guides and rides from Batumi.

Machakhela Local Food and Guesthouses

Family guesthouses in Machakhela serve genuine local dishes.  Agro Guest House Tsiskari shines with its warm welcome and home-cooked meals.  Fati and Durali, the welcoming hosts, serve generous portions made with fresh vegetables from their garden.  Many guests say they found Georgia’s best food here.

The menu features authentic Adjarian dishes like Sinori – a special layered dough and cheese creation from this region.  Plant-based eaters will find many choices too.  Meals often come with homemade wine or chacha (Georgian brandy).

An overnight stay lets you see remote villages and bond with local families who welcome visitors to taste their honey, cheese and wine.

Gonio Fortress, Kvariati & Sarpi

Three amazing coastal destinations line the Turkish border south of Batumi.  These neighboring spots sit within 15 km of the city and create a perfect day trip.  Visitors can discover ancient ruins, relax on beaches, and enjoy scenic hikes.

Gonio Fortress Historical Significance

Gonio Fortress, also known as Apsaros, stands near the Chorokhi river mouth and dates back to the 1st century AD.  This Roman fortification spans 44,460 sq. meters with impressive walls stretching 228 meters long and 195 meters wide.  The fortress became a prominent Roman outpost in the 2nd century and housed five cohorts – about 3,000 soldiers.

The fortress walls showcase construction layers from Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras.  Recent archeological digs have revealed remarkable finds.  These include Roman barracks, 1st-century baths with mosaic floors and glass artifacts.  Local legend says that Matthias, one of Christ’s twelve apostles, lies buried inside the fortress.  The site has been protected as a museum-reserve since 2010 and gives visitors a unique window into Georgia’s ancient history.

Kvariati and Sarpi Beaches and Views

Kvariati Beach provides a clean swimming alternative to Batumi’s crowded shores.  The beach stretches 1 km long and 50 m wide, just 3 km from the Turkish border.  Families love its subtropical climate.  Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts flock here thanks to the large shingle surface and crystal-clear waters.

Sarpi Beach sits at Georgia’s southernmost point by the Turkish checkpoint.  Beautiful cliffs line the shore.  The clean conditions and surrounding green hills create a peaceful setting.  Bus #16 from Batumi serves both beaches, making them easy stops on a southern coast adventure.

Gonio Cross Hike and Sunset Tips

Gonio Cross towers above the fortress on a hilltop with amazing 360-degree views.  Built in 2014, this massive concrete cross lets you see the Black Sea, Chorokhi river delta and Batumi’s skyline in the distance.

The round-trip hike from Gonio to the cross covers 9.3 km with a 327-meter climb.  Most people complete it in 3 hours plus viewing time.  The easy-to-moderate trail looks best at sunrise or sunset.  Pack water, snacks, sun protection, bug spray and a light jumper since temperatures drop quickly after sunset.  Nature lovers often spot falcons and buzzards in the area.

Petra Fortress & Tsikhisdziri Hidden Beach

The ancient ruins of Petra Fortress stand between the resort town of Kobuleti and Tsikhisdziri village.  This site ranks among the most important historical landmarks on Georgia’s Black Sea coast.  Byzantine commander Ioane Strategos built this remarkable fortress-city in 535 AD and it became a vital strategic point connecting Georgia with Asia.

Petra Fortress Ruins and Sea Views

Petra Fortress sits majestically on a rocky hill 440 meters above sea level.  The name “Petra” means “rock” in Greek and the site lets visitors step back into Georgia’s ancient past.  The archeological site has a citadel, outer city and residential remains that stretch across two seaside hills.  Visitors can see ruins of a palace, ancient baths, storage areas, soldiers’ quarters and the base of a 6th-7th century basilica.  This basilica once served as Petra’s episcopal cathedral.

The fortress’s high location rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of the Black Sea coast and its surroundings.  These views become magical at sunset as the sky and sea light up in brilliant orange and red.  Ancient ruins against the sparkling sea create perfect photo opportunities.

Tsikhisdziri Beach and Swimming Spots

Tsikhisdziri Hidden Beach lies below the fortress.  This quiet coastal spot nestles among lush greenery.  The beach splits into north and south sections, each with its own character.  A rocky area with a small banana plantation and bamboo walkways makes up the hidden beach.  Only adventurous travelers can reach it on foot.

The beach’s beauty is undeniable, but swimming here isn’t ideal and there are no lifeguards.  The peaceful atmosphere makes it great for relaxation, snorkeling and fishing.  Swimmers might prefer Kobuleti’s beaches nearby.

Nearby Cafes and Local Tips

The area offers several dining options after a day of sightseeing.  Chateau Tsikhisdziri serves tasty Georgian dishes.  Shukura café sits right by the beach with hammocks and sun loungers.  Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy Kobuleti Sea Restaurant’s fresh Black Sea catches.

Tips to enhance your visit:

• Start your day early or come late afternoon to dodge crowds and get the best light for photos
• Pack your beach essentials since rentals are scarce
• Bring a camera to capture stunning fortress sunsets
• Look up the weather before you go

Petra Fortress and Tsikhisdziri make a perfect day trip from Batumi.  You’ll find a great mix of history and natural beauty just a short distance from the city.

Kobuleti & Kobuleti Nature Reserve

Kobuleti, a charming coastal town, sits 40 km from Batumi.  Travelers heading north from Petra Fortress will discover this unique blend of Soviet-era charm and natural beauty.

Kobuleti Town and Soviet Architecture

The town’s landscape tells stories of its Soviet past through its modernist architecture.  Several abandoned Brutalist-style hotels line the waterfront, drawing photographers and urban explorers.  Hotel Colheti and Kobuleti Leisure Complex stand as striking examples of Soviet Modernism.  These buildings show how Georgia’s coastal development took shape during the USSR period.

The central park’s highlight is the “Underwater World Fountain” by sculptor Ilia Pesvianidze.  This artwork brings to life three-dimensional fish, octopuses, and crabs that remind visitors of Batumi’s similar designs.  The main street still holds Soviet-era mosaics that give us a peek into the artistic spirit of those times.

Kobuleti Beach and Family Activities

A long stretch of gray, gravely beach with clean waters makes Kobuleti perfect for swimming.  The beach has reliable facilities including showers and changing rooms.  Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas at good prices – about 4-5 GEL for half a day.

The beach area makes a great spot for families.  Kids will love the many attractions and playground spaces.  The sea bottom drops off quickly, so parents should keep an eye on young swimmers.  Cafes and play areas line the beachfront, creating a relaxed family atmosphere.

Kobuleti Nature Reserve Boardwalks

The UNESCO-listed Kobuleti Nature Reserve lies just 2 kilometers from the beach.  This protected wetland is part of the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands World Heritage Site.  The reserve’s sphagnum peatlands create an unusual landscape that feels like walking on a giant mattress.

Three signposted wooden boardwalks let you explore the reserve: Ispani 2, White Moss and Bot Sundew.  An observation tower gives photographers amazing aerial shots of this unique ecosystem.

The reserve teems with life.  You’ll find carnivorous sundew plants that catch insects, yellow and white water lilies and rare creatures like Eurasian otters.  Summer and autumn bring the best chances to spot migratory birds.

Bus #1 from Kobuleti town center takes you close to the reserve entrance – it’s just a short walk from there.

Makhuntseti & Mirveti Waterfalls

The twin waterfalls of Makhuntseti and Mirveti create a thundering symphony that echoes through mountain valleys, making them a perfect day trip from Batumi.  These natural wonders sit peacefully in the foothills of Upper Adjara, just 30 kilometers from the city.  Nature’s beauty blends seamlessly with historical architecture to create an unforgettable escape.

Makhuntseti Waterfall and Stone Bridge

Makhuntseti Waterfall dominates the landscape as one of Adjara’s tallest waterfalls, reaching heights of 30-36 meters.  The impressive cascade creates a mesmerizing sight as it tumbles through lush greenery.  Visitors can cool off in the natural pools beneath the waterfall during summer months.

The remarkable Makhuntseti Bridge stands 500 meters away from the waterfall.  This 12th-century stone-arched masterpiece stretches 24 meters across the Adjaristskali River.  The bridge’s builders used volcanic stones during King Tamara’s reign, creating a structure that narrows to 2 meters at its center.  The Georgian government recognized its significance by declaring it a cultural monument of national importance in 2006.

Mirveti Waterfall and Arch Bridge

The enchanting Mirveti Waterfall lies 19 kilometers from Batumi, cascading 20 meters down the cliffs that embrace Mirveti Village.  Visitors walk through a magical forest of endangered Colchic boxwoods to reach this natural wonder.  Though smaller than its cousin Makhuntseti, Mirveti Waterfall captivates viewers with its unique relief.

A stunning 13th-century arched stone bridge watches over the waterfall nearby (some historians date it to the 11th-12th centuries).  This architectural marvel spans twelve meters and uses natural pillars as supports.  The bridge rises five meters above the river at its highest point.  Its width varies from 2 meters in the middle to 3.5-4.2 meters at the ends.

Best Time to Visit and Crowd Tips

Late spring through mid-autumn (May-October) provides the best conditions to visit both waterfalls.  Makhuntseti tends to get busy on summer weekends, so plan accordingly.

Minibusses run frequently from Batumi’s old bus station to Khulo, stopping at Makhuntseti (10 GEL).  A private car rental offers more flexibility at 70 GEL for a round trip.  Local tour companies host day trips that combine both waterfalls with lunch in the Machakhela Valley.

Adjarian Wine Route

The Adjarian Wine Route lies in the mountainous terrain northeast of Batumi.  Wine lovers can explore family-run cellars and stunning landscapes on this amazing wine trail.  This up-and-coming wine destination shows off Georgia’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition through its unique local grape varieties.

Top Wineries Near Batumi

Keda municipality stands as the historical heart of Adjarian winemaking and houses many family cellars that produce distinctively aromatic wines.  The Adjarian Wine House in Khelvachauri is a must-visit spot built on 18th-century ruins and renovated in 2010.  You’ll find vineyards, factories, a restaurant, and traditional qvevri (clay vessels) used to make authentic Georgian wine here.

Mirveti’s Winery gives you a cozy tasting experience in a wooden house near Mirveti Waterfall, just 35 minutes from Batumi.  Chateau Iveri in Varjanisi village sits about an hour from Batumi and treats visitors to spectacular mountain views during wine tastings.

Adjarian Wine Varieties: Tsolikauri & Chkhaveri

Two main grape varieties define this region—Tsolikauri and Chkhaveri.  Tsolikauri, a light yellow-skinned white grape, reaches peak ripeness by mid-October and makes up nearly 90% of western Georgia’s vineyards.  This adaptable grape produces excellent dry, semi-sweet and semi-dry white wines.

Chkhaveri stands out with its pinkish color and late harvest timing.  The grape creates delicate, exceptional dry rosé wines with distinctive aromas.  The Adjarian Wine House makes specialized Chkhaveri wines under their “Porto Franco” brand, with dry, semi-sweet and qvevri options available.

Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Experiences

The route’s wineries offer more than just tastings.  Visitors can walk through vineyards, discover traditional winemaking methods and some places even let you pick grapes and press wine.  The Shervashidze family cellar lets guests take part in the winemaking process.

Adjarian amber (orange) wines pair beautifully with spicy dishes.  These wines’ earthy notes complement roasted vegetables, lamb and local cheeses perfectly.  Getting to these wineries is easy—a Bolt taxi ride from Batumi to Adjarian Wine House costs about 25 GEL.

Keda & Merisi Villages

The enchanting villages of Keda and Merisi nestle deep in Adjara’s mountains, about 50 kilometers from Batumi.  These villages give visitors a genuine taste of rural Georgian life surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

Keda’s Painted Mosques and Wineries

Keda municipality stands as the heart of Adjarian winemaking with its dozens of grape varieties.  Tsolikauri and Chkhaveri grapes reign supreme here.  The Chkhaveri creates distinctive pink late harvest wines, while Tsolikauri produces excellent dry whites.  Wine lovers can head over to family wineries in Pirveli Maisi, Vayo, Dandalo, Gegelidzeebi and Koromkheti to taste authentic local wines.  The region’s landscape features uniquely painted mosques that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Merisi’s Eco House and Glamping

Merisi village sits at an altitude of 850 meters and has become known for its remarkable Eco House Merisi.  This boutique mountain retreat features glass-walled bedrooms that dramatically extend over mountain slopes.  Guests wake up to panoramic views right from their beds.  Each veranda comes equipped with private jacuzzis and hammocks that create perfect spots to unwind.  Thrill-seekers will love the 6-meter swing suspended over a precipice.  The village lies about 16 kilometers from Keda and serves as a perfect starting point to discover Upper Adjara’s cultural treasures.

Mountain Views and Local Cuisine

The mountain vistas from both villages create perfect backdrops for photos and relaxation.  Merisi’s position at 700 meters rewards visitors with stunning views across Adjara’s mountain valleys.  The Eco House restaurant features a glass bridge with mountain views and serves Georgian, Adjarian and European dishes.  Local favorites include Sinori – the region’s signature layered dough and cheese dish.  Budget-conscious travelers can stay at traditional guesthouses in both villages, which include three daily meals for about 50 GEL.

Travelers can reach these villages by minibus from Keda to Batumi (54 minutes, 5 USD), private vehicles, or through tours that showcase these villages as part of broader Adjarian adventures.

Shekvetili & Ureki Magnetic Beaches

The coastal towns of Shekvetili and Ureki, located between Kobuleti and Kolkheti, stand out among Georgia’s attractions.  These places feature remarkable black magnetic sand beaches rich in iron ore minerals.  Unlike the stone or pebble beaches near Batumi, this part of Guria region’s coast gives visitors a unique beach experience.

Healing Properties of Magnetic Sand

Scientists have studied Ureki’s black magnetic sand since the 19th century.  The Georgian Institute of Physiotherapy and Resort Research later validated its therapeutic benefits.  The sand creates a natural low-intensity magnetic field and contains rich minerals: magnetite (5%), titanomagnetite (4.5%), monazite (4.9%) and zircon (4.2%).

The sand helps treat several conditions:

• Cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and chronic ischemic heart disease
• Neurological conditions such as depression, neurosis, and nerve pain
• Musculoskeletal issues like chronic rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis

Visitors should spend about 15 days getting treatment to see the best results.  The sand holds heat well and spreads it through the body.  This process widens blood vessels and helps nourish tissues better.

Shekvetili Miniature Park and Dendrological Garden

Shekvetili’s attractions go beyond its therapeutic beach.  The Miniature Park serves as an open-air museum with small replicas of Georgia’s important churches and historical landmarks.

The impressive Shekvetili Dendrological Park covers 60 hectares with thousands of local and exotic plants.  The park opened in summer 2020 and features two main areas.  One section spans 18 hectares with 39 unique Georgian endemic tree species.  Another area covers 42 hectares and shows off exotic woody plants from five continents.  A beautiful pond sits at the park’s heart, home to flamingoes, pelicans and other exotic birds.

Best Beachside Restaurants

The area has excellent dining options after a day at the beach or parks.  Kishi Bar leads Shekvetili’s restaurant scene, with Jio Grill&Bar and Epilog Sky Bar close behind.  The Social Space in Musicians Park near Black Sea Arena provides an upscale dining experience.

Bermukha café stands out in Ureki.  Customers love its atmosphere and food quality.  Beach vendors also sell snacks and drinks at reasonable prices for budget-conscious visitors.

Kolkheti National Park & Poti

Kolkheti National Park sits about 68 kilometers north of Batumi.  This natural UNESCO World Heritage Site ranks as Georgia’s first and stands among Europe’s most extraordinary wetland ecosystems.  People call it the “Amazon of Georgia” because its ancient Colchic forests and wetlands are vital stopover points for birds migrating between Northern Eurasia and Africa.

Kolkheti Wetlands and Birdwatching

Nature enthusiasts love the park’s big Paliastomi Lake and its complex network of marshlands.  The area hosts almost 200 species of birds, with many red-listed varieties.  Visitors can watch White-tailed Eagles, Ospreys, and during winter, they might spot flocks of Dalmatian Pelicans.  The best time to see wildlife is during early spring or late autumn when thousands of migratory birds pass through these wetlands.

Kayaking and Boat Tours in the Park

The best way to experience Kolkheti is on the water, and several tour options make this possible:

• Motorboat tours: Starting at 120 GEL for two people or 250 GEL for a five-seater
• Pontoon boat excursions: 300 GEL for groups up to eight people
• Kayak adventures: Great for narrow channels and forest tunnels

The standard boat route takes you across Paliastomi Lake to the winding Pichori River.  You’ll travel through dense wetlands full of exotic plants and wildlife.  Tours usually stop at an observation tower and picnic areas with short walking trails.  You should book ahead by calling +995 591 96 87 85. Remember that boats can’t run in windy or rainy conditions.

Poti City Highlights and Museums

Nearby Poti city adds cultural richness to your trip.  The Poti Museum of Colchian Culture lives in a beautiful historic building that German architect Edmon Frick designed in 1908.  It houses over 7,000 artifacts from the 3rd millennium BC to the 16th century AD.  The museum’s collection shows Bronze Age farming tools, beautiful Colchian ceramics and gold coins from Alexander the Great’s time.  These items tell the story of Poti’s past as an important trade center once known as Phasis.

Poti’s other attractions include the Neo-Byzantine St. Virgin Mary Cathedral, the historic Old Clock Tower and the Black Sea basin’s tallest lighthouse.

Comparison Table

Enjoy Your Day Trips From Batumi

Batumi serves as a perfect base to learn about Georgia’s southwestern treasures.  These twelve day trips showcase the region’s rich diversity.  You’ll find everything from UNESCO World Heritage sites like Mtirala National Park and Kolkheti wetlands to ancient fortresses that date back to the 1st century AD.

The region’s unique attractions will engage nature lovers.  Europe’s wettest spot gets 4,500mm of rain each year.  The area boasts therapeutic magnetic sand beaches and pristine trails through ancient Colchic forests.  History enthusiasts can discover numerous archeological sites.  Food and wine lovers will enjoy authentic wine-tasting sessions and experience traditional Georgian hospitality.

These spots are easy to reach, and most lie within an hour’s drive from Batumi.  Travel costs remain affordable.  Public busses cost just a few cents while private transfers usually stay under 100 GEL ($30).

These destinations have something for everyone, without doubt.  Adventure seekers can go hiking and kayaking.  Others might prefer to unwind on therapeutic beaches or immerse themselves in village life.  These twelve trips show why Batumi stands out as one of Georgia’s most dynamic travel hubs.

FAQs

Q1. What are some popular day trips from Batumi?
Popular day trips from Batumi include visiting Mtirala National Park, exploring the Gonio Fortress, relaxing at Ureki’s magnetic sand beaches, touring the Adjarian Wine Route and experiencing the wetlands of Kolkheti National Park.

Q2. How long should I plan to stay in Batumi?
While two days are generally sufficient to explore Batumi’s main attractions, planning for 3-4 days allows you to enjoy the city and take a few day trips to nearby destinations, giving you a more comprehensive experience of the region.

Q3. What makes Batumi unique compared to other Georgian cities?
Batumi stands out for its blend of modern architecture, seaside charm and proximity to diverse attractions.  It offers a unique mix of Black Sea beaches, subtropical botanical gardens, ancient fortresses and easy access to both mountain and coastal day trip destinations.

Q4. What natural attractions can I visit near Batumi?
Near Batumi, you can explore the Colchic rainforests in Mtirala National Park, relax on the therapeutic magnetic sand beaches of Ureki, hike to Makhuntseti waterfall or go birdwatching in the wetlands of Kolkheti National Park.

Q5. Are there any unique cultural experiences near Batumi?
Yes, the Adjarian Wine Route offers a chance to taste unique local wines like Tsolikauri and Chkhaveri.  You can also visit painted mosques in Keda, explore ancient fortresses like Gonio and Petra, or experience traditional Georgian hospitality in mountain villages like Merisi.