Air Travel to: Batumi

Airport Information

Major Airports & Routes

Batumi International Airport (BUS) is the main airport for the city, a modern, compact facility located a few kilometers southwest of the city center. It Batumi directly to several international cities, especially during the peak summer season.

Airlines and Connectivity

Domestic Flights: Georgian Airways seasonal flights connecting Batumi to Tbilisi, Georgia's capital. This a quick link if you arrive in Tbilisi first.
International Flights: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines frequent connections via Istanbul. Israir to Tel Aviv. Wizz Air seasonal direct flights from various European cities (e.g., Berlin, Vienna). FlyDubai direct flights to Dubai. Belavia to Minsk.
Direct flights from major global hubs (London, New York) generally not available. Most travelers connect through Istanbul, Warsaw, Vienna, or Tbilisi.

Seasonal & Pricing Notes

Flight availability peaks during the summer high season (June-August). During this period, more direct routes open, and flight frequencies grow significantly. This heightened demand often higher prices for air tickets.

Price Fluctuations and Booking Advice

Prices are generally lower during the shoulder seasons (May, September, early October) and the low season (November-April), when fewer direct options.
Book flights well in advance, notably for summer travel. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are good resources.
Batumi International Airport a modern and user-friendly facility. It various services: Duty-free shops, cafes, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks, free Wi-Fi.

Taxi Transfers

The easiest and most popular option from Batumi Airport. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. A ride to the city center typically costs 15-25 GEL and takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Always agree on the price with the driver beforehand.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Bolt and Yandex.Taxi ride-sharing apps a good alternative with fixed, transparent fares. You can pre-book or hail a ride directly from the app upon arrival. This option often a slightly lower price than street taxis.

Public Bus

Bus #10 a regular route between the airport and the city center, including the Batumi Boulevard area. It is the cheapest option, costing 0.30 GEL with a Batumi Card or 0.80 GEL cash. The journey 20-30 minutes, a budget-friendly way to reach your accommodation.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Turkey: The main land border crossing between Georgia and Turkey is Sarpi-Sarp, just south of Batumi (approx. 20 km away). It a busy crossing, open 24/7.
This border is frequently used by both locals and tourists. You can reach Sarpi by local marshrutka or taxi from Batumi.
Armenia/Azerbaijan: These borders are not directly accessible from Batumi without first traveling through other regions of Georgia (e.g., from Tbilisi).
Train Services: Batumi's main train station is Makhinjauri, a few kilometers north of the city. High-speed, modern trains daily connections between Batumi (Makhinjauri) and Tbilisi, a comfortable journey of 5-6 hours with scenic views and often Wi-Fi.

Train and Bus Bookings

Tickets can be purchased online via the official Georgian Railways website or through the platform Tkt.ge/railway.
It is highly recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially during the summer high season, as popular routes sell out quickly.
Long-Distance Bus/Marshrutka: Marshrutkas (minibuses) are the most common and versatile intercity transport in Georgia. They connect Batumi to virtually every major town and city, departing frequently from Batumi Central Bus Station (Avtogalagari) and various informal pick-up points. Fast and economical.
Regular buses operate on some popular routes, offering more space than marshrutkas. Check at the bus station for schedules.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requirements & Rentals

To rent and drive a car, you need a valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). A credit card in the driver's name is for the security deposit. International car rental companies (DiscoverCars.com, Hertz, Avis) and local providers operate in Batumi and at the airport. Book in advance for better selection and rates. Full coverage insurance highly recommended.

Road Conditions

Main roads connecting major cities are generally well-maintained. However, roads in mountainous areas can be challenging: narrow, winding, and vary in surface quality. Some rural roads be unpaved.

Driving Laws & Safety

Georgians drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits generally 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110 km/h on motorways. Drunk driving laws are strict (zero-tolerance). Driving in Georgia calls for caution. Some local drivers can be aggressive. Be alert for pedestrians, livestock, and unexpected obstacles. Comprehensive insurance highly recommended.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services and Cruise Ports

Batumi, a major Black Sea port, sea-based travel options, mainly for ferries and cruise ships. River transportation is not a significant feature for tourist travel within Batumi.

Sea Travel Options

Ferry: Seasonal ferry services historically connected Batumi with Black Sea ports, notably Chornomorsk (Ukraine). Check current operational status and schedules directly with ferry operators, as political situations can strongly influence availability.
Cruise Port: Batumi a popular port of call for various international cruise lines exploring the Black Sea. Cruise ships typically dock directly in the city.
This direct docking passengers with easy and convenient access to Batumi's central attractions, which are often within walking distance or a short taxi ride.

River Transportation and Immigration

There are no significant river transportation options within Batumi that serve as tourist transport or connect the city's various points.

Immigration at Seaports and Land Connections

The Chorokhi River flows into the sea near Batumi, but it is not used for passenger transport within the city.
Immigration Procedures at Seaports: For arrivals by ferry or cruise ship, standard passport control and customs procedures apply, similar to airports. Passengers present valid passports and any visa documentation to Georgian immigration officials upon disembarkation.
Connections to Land Transportation: The cruise and ferry port in Batumi is centrally located, making connections to land transportation simple. Taxis are readily available directly outside the port area. Public buses also operate nearby.

Departure Timing: Airport

Plan to arrive at Batumi International Airport (BUS) at least 2 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure. For domestic flights (e.g., to Tbilisi), 1.5 hours usually sufficient. This ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.

Departure Timing: Train

For train travel from Makhinjauri train station, arrive approximately 30 minutes before your train's scheduled departure. This ample time to find your platform and board.

Departure Timing: Bus/Marshrutka

For long-distance bus or marshrutka travel from Batumi Central Bus Station (Avtogalagari), arrive 15-30 minutes before departure. Marshrutkas often depart once full, so arriving earlier a good way to get a seat.

Departure Information

Exit Fees and Procedures

There are no specific exit fees or taxes levied on departing travelers from Georgia. Your airfare or ticket price usually any applicable fees.

Departure Reminders

Confirm your flight, train, or bus departure times the day before you leave. This account for any last-minute schedule changes.
Prepare for your departure calmly, ample time for all procedures. This a relaxing end to your Batumi journey.
Batumi International Airport departure lounge several facilities including cafes and duty-free shops. Wi-Fi is available.

Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

Makhinjauri Train Station basic waiting areas and small kiosks for refreshments. Batumi Central Bus Station basic waiting areas, small shops, and food stalls.

A Smooth Departure

The immigration procedures are generally efficient but can experience occasional queues during peak times.
For train travel, arrive 30 minutes before departure for finding your platform and boarding.
Both train and bus stations basic services for your comfort before departure.

Summary of Transportation

Air Travel

Batumi International Airport (BUS) the main gateway. Direct flights from Istanbul, Tel Aviv, Dubai, and seasonal European cities. Mostly requires connections.

Land Travel

Train connections from Tbilisi to Makhinjauri station. Marshrutkas connect Batumi widely across Georgia. Self-driving possible with IDP and local caution.

Sea Travel

Batumi a Black Sea cruise port and has seasonal ferry services (check current status). No regular river transportation for tourists.

Travel Planning Note

Efficient travel around Batumi diverse experiences. From local buses to scenic cable car rides, each mode a different perspective on the city's charm. Planning your transport ahead for smooth journeys.

Air Travel to Batumi