Batumi was an Ancient Greek colony, a Roman port and was fought over several times in battles between the Georgian Kings and invading Ottoman forces. In 1878 Batumi came under the rule of the Russian Empire and the city soon experienced rapid expansion. Today it is Georgia’s main port and seaside holiday destination. 
Batumi is blossoming. It is Georgia’s summer playground and has seen much development over recent years, much of it with new building, but some with a sympathetic understanding of the city’s history. Batumi had a previous period of prosperity in the 19th century and a lot of recent renovations of the old town have been carried out with that in mind, using archive documents to preserve authenticity. The result is a charming series of low-level buildings with delicate railings and balconies, moulded facades and quiet cobblestone streets, where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh coffee, the fragrance of citrus plants, and of course the sea breeze. 
Despite the developments the ongoing construction does have its critics, with some arguing that it is damaging the city’s character. Yet there is no arguing that Batumi has an energetic and growing tourist infrastructure that makes it an easy and enjoyable place to stay.
In this guide we also provide you with tourism information on the Ajara region, one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in Georgia. 
Have a happy stay and enjoy the city, the sea and the sun. Gamarjoba!