Budget-Friendly Batumi Travel Guide (No Expensive Tour Companies Needed)
Before I went to Batumi, I did some research and realized that tour companies charge high prices for trips to Georgia. Of course, this is optional, and those who prefer can choose to go on a tour. However, travelers who enjoy the freedom of solo or partner travel will have an amazing experience exploring the country on their own.
I’ll show you how to travel budget-friendly from the airport to the entrance and exit of Batumi, all while enjoying its delicious flavors.
Batumi Georgia Currency
Georgia’s official currency is the lari (GEL), and there are exchange offices at the airport. However, here’s a tip: I recommend only changing enough money at the airport for your bus fare into the city. Once you arrive in Batumi, you’ll find exchange offices on almost every street corner, offering better rates than the airport. Whether you’re coming to Batumi for the first time or returning, it’s always a good idea to change money in the city to get the best deal.
Transportation to the City Center from Batumi Airport
Getting from Batumi International Airport to the city center is both easy and affordable. If you’re on a budget, you can take bus number 10 right in front of the airport. It costs only $0.71 (about 2 GEL). For a faster option, taxis are available for around 25 GEL (about $9). Alternatively, you can use Bolt, a cheaper ride-hailing app similar to Uber, to get to your destination in Batumi quickly and easily.
If you need a local SIM card, they are available at the airport. However, I opted for a more budget-friendly option by downloading the Maps.me app, which gives you free access to offline maps without needing a local phone plan. This helped me navigate Batumi effortlessly throughout my stay. I also loaded up the Batumi map in advance to ensure I wouldn’t get lost in this beautiful city.
Georgia Weather - What to Do in Batumi When It Rains
Georgia has a Black Sea climate, which means it rains a lot. I highly recommend packing an umbrella in your bag before you travel. I forgot mine and ended up getting soaked, but it became part of my travel experience. In Georgia, especially in the cities, you’ll find street vendors selling umbrellas on every corner. But why spend $10 unnecessarily when you can be prepared and save money?
Georgia Weather
Cheap Accommodation in Batumi
One of the best things about Batumi Georgia hotels is that it is walkable. Everything is within easy reach, which means you can save both time and money on transportation. Accommodation prices start at around $20 – $25 per night for budget options, making Batumi a great choice for an affordable stay. Batumi beach hotels are particularly popular.
If you’re traveling on a budget, consider visiting Batumi between March and May, when hotel rates are typically the lowest. The highest prices are usually between June and August.
Things to do in Batumi
No need for expensive tour companies. In Batumi we’ll explore on our batumi attractions and make the most of our trip. Not only will we save money, but we’ll also have an authentic travel experience. Traveling independently in Batumi is a great way to enjoy the city and discover hidden gems while staying within your budget.
Batumi in the evening
Hit the Beach Early in the Morning!
As someone who always wakes up with the sun, I can tell you there’s something special about exploring a city before anyone else is up. The streets are quiet, the air is crisp, and the morning light is perfect for photography. In Batumi, Georgia, I went to the beach at dawn to watch the fishermen get ready for the day. It was a peaceful moment that allowed me to connect with the true spirit of Batumi.
Best beaches in Georgia
Enjoy the Beauty of the 6 May Park
Start your day early in Batumi, watching Georgian fishermen and breathing in the fresh sea breeze. Then take a relaxing walk to 6 May Park Batumi, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and relax in this peaceful place. It’s a priceless experience that money can’t buy.
6 May Park Batumi
Hire a Bike in Batumi and Explore the Coast!
One of the best things to do in Batumi is hire a bike and explore the city’s beaches. While walking around is great, biking lets you fully enjoy the refreshing scent of the Black Sea. I highly recommend doing this activity, especially along Batumi Boulevard.
Batumi Boulevard
Discover Batumi's Local Markets!
As you begin to explore the streets of Batumi, you will notice that local markets are becoming more common. Since Georgia has a Black Sea climate, there are many fish markets in Batumi. You can taste fresh seafood and chat with the locals. It is a great way to have a unique, authentic experience.
Batumi Fish Market
Experience the Essence of Georgian Culture
When traveling to a new country, it’s important to immerse yourself in the culture, and a great way to do that in Batumi is to visit the Ethnographic Museum “Borjgalo”, located just 2 km from the city center. The museum features life-size mannequins dressed in various professions, work environments and even weapons, providing a fascinating insight into Georgian culture and traditions. It’s open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, and tickets cost 2 GEL for students and 10 GEL (about $4) for adults. If you’re looking for an inexpensive activity in Batumi, the Ethnographic Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Ethnographic Museum Batumi
Collect Stones from Batumi's Beaches for Your Home!
I’m not sure what you think, but I absolutely love activities like this. I enjoy picking up souvenirs from the countries I visit and displaying them at home as part of my collection. Collecting stones from the beaches of Batumi, Georgia, with its Black Sea climate, was definitely something I couldn’t miss.
I collected stones from the beaches of Batumi for my home collection.
Watch Dancing Fountains
One of the best budget-friendly activities in Batumi is watching the dancing fountains that perform nightly from 9:00 pm to 2:00 am. Located on the Old Boulevard, Ardagani Lake and Europe Square, these fountains put on a spectacular show. In Batumi, along with traditional Georgian songs, you’ll hear iconic compositions by international stars such as Luciano Pavarotti, Barry White, Diana Ross, Sting and more. It’s the perfect romantic experience or fun outing for singles and families alike. If you’re visiting Batumi, don’t miss the magical atmosphere created by the fountains. It’s one of the highlights of any trip to Batumi.
Batumi fountain show
Gonio-Apsaros Fortress: Georgia's Defensive Heritage
One of the most budget-friendly activities in Batumi is a visit to the Gonio-Apsaros Fortress, just 12km from the city. Dating back to the 1st century AD, this well-preserved Roman fortress is a great opportunity to explore historical ruins on foot and enjoy some time at Gonio Beach. With an entrance fee of only 5 GEL, you can also have lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants nearby. You can even take a bike ride from the Batumi city centre,making it an affordable and fun experience.
Batumi’s Miracle Park truly lives up to its name – a place where everything comes together in perfect harmony. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Alphabet Tower, the Ali and Nino Statue, the Batumi Lighthouse and the Batumi Ferris Wheel, this place is like stepping into a picture postcard. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Miracle Park has a magnetic charm that’s hard to resist. As one of the top Batumi tourist places, it offers a unique blend of culture, art, and nature, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the beauty of Batumi.
The Stunning Alphabet Tower
The Alphabet Tower in Batumi represents the 33 letters of the Georgian alphabet, one of the oldest and most unique alphabets in the world. This structure is a symbol of the Georgian people’s deep respect for their cultural heritage.
Alphabet Tower Batumi
Ali and Nino: A Moving Love Story
The statue of Ali and Nino, located in Batumi, Georgia, is a captivating modern sculpture. The figures slowly move toward each other, symbolizing the lovers’ eventual union. As night falls, the lights illuminate the sculpture, creating a breathtaking visual. The story of these lovers is well worth reading.
Batumi Ali & Nino Statue
The Ferris Wheel: A Sky-High Experience
Getting a shot of the Ferris wheel in Batumi, Georgia was quite a challenge because it’s massive. No matter how far I stepped back, I couldn’t get a shot of it – it was so big! I finally managed to get a good shot. Since I was on a budget tour, I decided not to ride it, but if you’re interested, the ticket costs 10 Lari (about $3.60).
Batumi Ferris Wheel
Talk to the Statues!
Batumi feels like an open-air museum, with its boulevards lined with unique and thought-provoking statues. Walking among them is like entering a place where art and life merge effortlessly. I couldn’t help but “talk” to some of them. One statue looked so pensive that I found myself asking it, “What’s on your mind today?” (No answer, but I like to think it silently agreed with me).
Batumi Statues
Walk from Europe Square to Piazza Square!
Batumi is a city full of history, with stunning buildings and landmarks scattered throughout the streets. If you want to experience the charm of the city, I recommend a walk from Europe Square to Batumi Piazza Square. This route will introduce you to some of Batumi’s most famous historical sites, such as St. Nicholas Church and Batumi Theater.
Batumi clock tower
I said hello to 2025 in the city of Batumi, Georgia
Visit Saint Nicholas Church in Batumi!
St. Nicholas Church is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in Batumi. Located close to the city centre, it is one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Batumi and is remarkable for both its architecture and history.
Taste Georgian Flavors!
Georgian Food Khinkali
Before visiting Georgia, Batumi I did some research on the country’s iconic dishes. Among the many options, I was especially drawn to Adjarian khachapuri and Khinkali. The hot, cheesy khachapuri was absolutely delicious, and once I started, it was hard to stop. The rich cheese and perfect dough texture were incredible.
If you’re in the mood for something outside of local cuisine, you can find McDonald’s and KFC in Batumi’s Europe Square, and the prices are pretty budget-friendly.
Amazing Georgian Dishes for Food Lovers:
- Sinori
- Borano
- Achma
- Lakhni
- Chirbuli
- Malakhto
Adjarian Khachapuri
I also looked up the Best Batumi Restaurants, to try local dishes. Prices can vary, but these are definitely some of the top spots to get a taste of Georgia’s finest.
| Dining & Drinking Spots in Batumi | Description |
|---|---|
| Ajarian House | The restaurant is located in the coastal area of Batumi and has a large garden. You can enjoy delicious Georgian dishes at this restaurant, making for a memorable dining experience. |
| Chacha Time | Just a 3-minute walk from Europe Square in Batumi, there’s a small but charming shop where you can taste amazing flavors and enjoy a great experience |
| Laguna | At this place, one of Batumi’s best restaurant cafés, you can experience amazing flavors. |
| It’s one of the most important restaurants in Batumi, where you can taste some truly amazing flavors. | |
| Sazandari | Very authentic and good food. Very nice khinkali and good wine. The atmosphere is very nice. |
| In Batumi, Café “Privet iz Batuma” opened in August 2003, offering a French retro design and a menu of European and Georgian dishes, famous desserts, and drinks. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. |
Spend Plenty of Time on Batumi's Beaches!
Don’t listen to those who say Batumi’s beaches are too cliché. Batumi offers the perfect Black Sea climate and nature. If you visit this country, make sure to spend plenty of time on the beach. Sitting by the water in Batumi, listening to the sound of the waves, you’ll feel your body relax. It’s a great investment in your mental and psychological well-being
The beaches in Batumi are really amazing.
See the Different Streets of Batumi!
Georgian independence from the Soviet Union on April 9, 1991. This followed the political turmoil within the Soviet Union, which was facing a wave of nationalist movements and the eventual collapse of the Soviet system. Batumi is a city that has been influenced by many cultures and civilizations throughout its history. This rich heritage has left its mark on the city. In particular, the influence of the Soviet era is very evident in the architecture and overall atmosphere of the city. Walking through the batumi streets, you will come across several examples of architecture from the Soviet era.
Streets of Georgia
Visit Sarpi Village!
The village of Sarpi is the border crossing between Georgia and Turkey. From here you can reach the Batumi Sarpi minibus.(2 Lari) You can explore Sarpi, cross into Turkey and enjoy a day trip along the border.
Go Hiking in Georgia's Natural Beauty!
When you visit Georgia, the stunning mountains will immediately catch your eye. After exploring the city’s popular attractions, be sure to go hiking in Georgia’s magnificent mountain ranges. It will undoubtedly be one of the most rewarding and rejuvenating experiences of your life. The mountains around Batumi are great for your mental wellbeing. For detailed information on the best hiking trails, see my article “Hiking in the Georgian Mountains – Top Trails for 2025”.
Chat with Georgian Natives!
When I visit a new country, I like to talk to the locals to learn about their culture and lifestyle. In Georgia, I found that the peaceful Black Sea climate is really reflected in the positive and relaxed attitude of the people. The conversations I had with locals, especially while walking tour Batumi’s vibrant local markets, were incredibly welcoming and enlightening.
Georgian people are really nice.
Taste the Wines of Georgia!
Georgia is famous for its wines, and Batumi is the perfect place to explore them. The country’s wine culture is so rich that you discover a piece of history with every sip. When visiting Batumi, be sure to taste the local wines and experience the traditions behind them. Whether in the city or in the nearby vineyards, Batumi offers a unique wine experience.
Georgian Wine
Visit the Historic Theater Buildings!
While exploring Batumi and other Georgian cities, you’ll quickly notice the numerous statues of famous actors and artists scattered around the streets, often accompanied by nearby theatres. The building of the Batumi Summer Theatre in particular made a strong impression on me, and it was there that I took this stunning photograph.
Georgia Theater
| Theater Name | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Batum Drama Theater | The oldest theater in Batumi, and an important part of Georgian culture. | View on Google Maps |
| Batum State Musical Center | Famous for musical and opera performances, it is an important venue for cultural events. | View on Google Maps |
Paid Activities in Batumi
Now, if you’re ready to explore beyond the basics, let’s dive into some of the paid activities Batumi has to offer. As part of Georgia tourism’s growing appeal, Batumi offers a wide range of experiences that go beyond the usual sights. I’ve done some research and found a selection of popular activities that will give you a new perspective on the city.
| Attraction | Price (in USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Batumi Dolphinarium | $8 | Enjoy a variety of marine life shows, including dolphins, seals, at the Batumi Dolphinarium and more. |
| Argo Cable Car | $11 | Ride the cable car for panoramic views of Batumi and the Black Sea coast. |
| Botanical Garden Tour | $8 | Explore lush gardens featuring plants from all over the world. |
| Gonio Fortress Tour | $1 | Visit this ancient Roman fortress, rich in history and archaeological significance. |
Batumi: A Beautiful City and Amazing People
This beautiful city has really left a lasting impression on me and I have tried to share with you the best budget-friendly options and Batumi travel tips. I met so many wonderful people and the Georgian people are incredibly warm and welcoming. A big thank you to all of you!
If you have already explored this beautiful city and are heading back home, don’t forget to check out my guide to finding cheap flights.
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