Georgia Travel Guide 2025: Batumi and Tbilisi
An Unforgettable Journey Through Georgia's Historical and Cultural Riches
One of the most captivating countries in the Caucasus, Georgia awaits visitors with its millennia-old history, unique culture, and hospitality. In this comprehensive Georgia travel guide, you'll discover the capital Tbilisi and the Black Sea pearl Batumi, explore historical sites, and access all the information you need for an unforgettable Georgia holiday.
Georgia History: From Ancient Civilization to Present
Georgia history extends back to the 4th millennium BC, and these lands have been a crossroads of many civilizations throughout history. With a rich past spanning from the ancient kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia to Roman, Byzantine, Persian, and Ottoman influences, Georgia bears traces from every era.
Georgia, which experienced its Golden Age in the Middle Ages, reached its political, economic, and cultural peak during the reign of Queen Tamar (1184-1213). The monasteries, churches, and fortresses built during this period are now listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tbilisi: Georgia's Beating Heart
The capital Tbilisi, situated on the banks of the Mtkvari River, is a city that perfectly blends history and modernity. Tbilisi history dates back to the 5th century, and the city takes its name from the word "tbili," meaning "warm," referring to the area's hot springs.
Must-See Places in Tbilisi
1. Narikala Fortress
One of the city's oldest structures, Narikala Fortress was built in the 4th century and has become a symbol of Tbilisi. You can reach the fortress by cable car and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the city.
2. Old Town Tbilisi
With its narrow streets, colorful balconies, and historic houses, Old Tbilisi reflects the soul of the city. Here you can dine at traditional Georgian restaurants and explore handmade souvenir shops.
3. Abanotubani (Sulfur Baths District)
One of the most important places in Tbilisi history, this district is directly connected to the city's founding story. Relaxing in traditional Georgian baths is an indispensable part of the Tbilisi experience.
4. Shardeni Street
This charming street filled with art galleries, boutique cafes, and restaurants has a particularly vibrant atmosphere in the evenings.
5. Sameba Cathedral
Georgia's largest Orthodox church, the Sameba (Holy Trinity) Cathedral is a magnificent example of traditional Georgian architecture, though built in modern times.
Tbilisi Hotels and Accommodation
Tbilisi accommodation options are quite diverse. You can find options suitable for every budget in the city:
Luxury Hotels
- Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi: 5-star luxury, modern facilities in city center
- Tbilisi Marriott Hotel: Central location on Rustaveli Avenue
- Rooms Hotel Tbilisi: Boutique design hotel, ideal for art and culture enthusiasts
- Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel: Panoramic city views and spacious rooms
Mid-Range Hotels
- Citrus Hotel Old City: Historic atmosphere in the old town
- Ambassadori Tbilisi Hotel: Comfortable accommodation on Rustaveli Avenue
- Old Town Boutique Hotel: Family-run, intimate atmosphere
Budget-Friendly Options
- Fabrika Hostel & Gallery: Artistic hostel in old Soviet factory
- Why Not Hostel: Social activities, central location
- Guest House Tbilisi: Traditional Georgian hospitality
From Tbilisi to Batumi: Plan Your Journey
There are several options for transportation from Tbilisi to Batumi:
1. Flight
Daily flights from Tbilisi to Batumi are available, with a flight time of approximately 50 minutes. Batumi flight prices vary by season but are generally affordable.
2. Train
The night train is one of the most popular options. It takes approximately 5-6 hours and you can travel in comfortable carriages. By sleeping on the night train, you save both time and hotel costs.
3. Minibus (Marshrutka)
The most economical option, taking approximately 6-7 hours. Frequent departures from Didube Bus Station.
4. Private Car Rental
An ideal option for those who want to enjoy the scenery along the way and stop for photos.
Batumi: The Modernizing Face of the Black Sea
Batumi is Georgia's most important port city on the Black Sea coast. Batumi history extends to ancient times, and the city has been an important trade center throughout history.
Batumi History and Cultural Significance
Part of the Kingdom of Colchis in ancient times, Batumi is the land where the legend of the Golden Fleece took place. An important port city during the Ottoman period, the city passed to Russia in 1878. This multicultural past is still felt in the city's architecture and atmosphere.
Historical and Cultural Sites in Batumi
1. Piazza Square
Designed inspired by Piazza San Marco in Venice, this square is surrounded by lively cafes and restaurants. You can watch live music performances in the evenings.
2. Batumi Archaeological Museum
An ideal place to discover the region's rich history. Artifacts from the Bronze Age to the present are exhibited.
3. Adjara Museum
A museum where you can discover the region's ethnographic heritage, traditional lifestyle, and handicrafts.
4. Medea Statue
This magnificent statue representing Medea, the heroine of the Golden Fleece legend, is one of Batumi's icons.
Batumi Accommodation: Best Options
Batumi accommodation offers a wide range. Various options are available from the seaside to the city center:
Premium Choices
- Mandarin Club House: Prestigious accommodation in city center, modern facilities and excellent service
- Sheraton Batumi Hotel: Sea-view rooms, extensive spa and fitness center
- Hilton Batumi: International standard service
Orby Tower and Surroundings
The Orby Tower area represents Batumi's modern face. In this area, you'll find quality accommodation facilities such as Mandarin hotel Batumi. Mandarin House offers guests not just accommodation, but a complete holiday experience with casino, spa, and restaurants.
Batumi Hotels - Other Recommendations
- Divan Suites Batumi: All-inclusive concept, family-friendly
- Batumi World Palace Hotel: Luxury seaside accommodation
- Intourist Palace: Historic building in old town
- Golden Tulip Batumi: Modern facilities, central location
How to Get to Georgia: Flight Tickets and Transportation
Transportation is one of the most important topics when planning a Georgia holiday.
Tbilisi Flight Tickets
Getting Tbilisi flight tickets from Turkey is quite easy. Direct flights are available from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir:
- Turkish Airlines: Daily direct flights, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Istanbul
- Pegasus: Affordable option, frequent flights
- Georgian Airways: Georgia's national airline
- AnadoluJet: Economic alternative
Batumi Flight Tickets
Similar options are available for Batumi flight tickets. However, since Batumi flights are generally less frequent than Tbilisi, flying to Tbilisi and then going to Batumi is often a more practical choice.
Road Transportation
For those who want to go by road from Turkey, the Sarp-Sarpi border gate is the most common choice. From here, Batumi is only 20 km away.
Batumi Travel Guide: Activities to Do
Activities you must add to your Batumi travel guide:
Nature and Outdoor Activities
- Batumi Boulevard: 7 km long seaside walk
- Mtirala National Park: Rainforests and waterfalls
- Batumi Botanical Garden: 110 hectares, thousands of plant species
- Gonio-Apsaros Fortress: Historic fortress from Roman period
Modern Entertainment
- Batumi Casino: Many modern casinos including Mandarin Casino
- Batumi Dolphinarium: Fun show with dolphins
- Batumi Tower: Ferris wheel and observation tower
- May 6 Park: Amusement park and entertainment areas
Georgian Cuisine: A Journey for Your Taste Buds
One of the most enjoyable aspects of a Georgia holiday is tasting the local cuisine:
Dishes You Must Try
- Khachapuri: Georgia's national dish, cheese-filled bread
- Khinkali: Georgian dumplings, meat or mushroom
- Mtsvadi: Georgian shish kebab
- Lobio: Bean stew
- Pkhali: Appetizers made from various vegetables
- Chakapuli: Lamb stew with tarragon
Georgian Wines
Georgia is one of the world's oldest wine-producing regions. In a country with an 8,000-year wine tradition, you must taste wines produced using the kvevri (clay vessel) method.
Practical Information and Tips
Visa
Turkish citizens can stay in Georgia visa-free for 1 year.
Currency
Georgian Lari (GEL) is used. 1 USD is approximately 2.7 GEL. Currency exchange offices are widespread and you can withdraw money from ATMs.
Language
The official language is Georgian, but English, Russian, and in some places Turkish are spoken in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
May-October is ideal for Batumi holidays. For Tbilisi, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are the most suitable periods.
Safety
Georgia is a very safe country for tourists. Taking general safety precautions is sufficient.
Internet and Communication
Getting a local SIM card is very easy. Magti, Beeline, and Geocell are the main operators. 4G internet connection is widespread.
Batumi Hotel Guide: Regional Choices
When choosing your accommodation, you can benefit from the Batumi hotel guide:
Seaside Hotels
The New Boulevard area is ideal for those who want to be close to the beach. Mandarin Club and similar hotels are located in this area.
Old Town Hotels
Boutique hotels in the Old Town area are great options for those who prefer a historic atmosphere.
Modern City Center
The Orby Tower area is perfect for those looking for modern hotels and entertainment centers.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Georgian Experience
Georgia is a unique destination with its history, nature, cuisine, and hospitable people. The historic streets of Tbilisi, Batumi's modern entertainment world, and the rich cultural experience both cities offer await you.
Whether you prefer luxury accommodation at Mandarin Club House or experience traditional Georgian hospitality at a local guesthouse, every moment you spend on these lands will be unforgettable. Book your Tbilisi flight tickets, plan your Batumi accommodation, and get ready for Georgia's magical atmosphere!
With this Georgia travel guide, the Batumi vacation and Tbilisi travel you plan will be one of the most beautiful memories of your life. Gamarjoba (hello) Georgia! 🇬🇪