Excursion Batumi highlights tour at Batumi

Explore the traditions, culture and landmarks of Georgia during this scenic highlights tour of Batumi.

Piazza Square and St. Nicolas's Church

Begin your tour with a drive to Piazza square and visit St. Nicola's Church to see so called "old Batumi". The St. Nicola's Church was built at the beginning of the XIX century and was the only church where religious services were conducted even during the Soviet times. You will be able to admire the exterior of the church, dominating Piazza Square, one of the charms of Batumi. It is one of the most beautiful places in the city, yet as its name suggests, it is distinctly Italian and so a little incongruous for Georgia, but in Batumi, when it comes to architecture, it seems anything goes! The Square covers about 5700 square meters and is surrounded by the Piazza complex, which includes a hotel, a couple of restaurants, a café and a pub. The architecture is distinguished by mosaics and stained glass art. The square usually hosts concerts of world famous musicians visiting Batumi. Piazza Square hosted concerts of Sting, Placido Domingo, Michel Legrand and many others.

European Square and Seaside Boulevard

Proceed with a short drive to European square. The statue of Medea is placed in the center of the square and symbolizes the connections of ancient Georgia with the European world. Continue with a short walk to Prymorsky (Seaside) Boulevard. Along the way stop at Neptune's square to admire the beautiful fountain surrounded by post-soviet residential buildings and neighboring ultra-modern sky-scrapers. Upon arrival at the boulevard, enjoy a short guided stroll to learn more about the modern development of the city and take some pictures with the gorgeous palms on the background.

Traditional Refreshments

Next drive to a local restaurant by the seafront for a traditional snack. You will savor khachapuri, a Georgian dish of cheese-stuffed bread. And of course, you will have a chance to taste a glass of local wine in addition to tea or coffee.

Gonio Fortress

Following the refreshment stop, drive approximately 30 minutes to Gonio Fortress. This fortification is an interesting historical and cultural attraction. According to Roman and Byzantine sources, Apsaros was formed as a settlement during the ancient times. A number of historians claim that Gonio fortress used to be the strategic, political, economic and cultural center of the Eastern Roman frontier. A theatre and hippodrome functioned here in I-III cc. AD. One of the twelve apostles of Christ St. Mathias is believed to be buried in Apsaros.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Old and New Batumi, Piazza Square, St NIchola's Church, European Square, Medea Statue, Seaside Boulevard, Neptune Square, Traditional Snack, Gonio Fortress.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 2 kilometres over flat terrain. Mobility challenged guests must be able to negotiate the steps to get on/off the coach. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter churches in Georgia; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Ladies should have covered heads and shoulders. The tour sequence may vary.