Things To Do
in Poti
Poti is a small port city on the Black Sea coast in western Georgia. It blends maritime heritage with a growing tourist scene and a relaxed coastal vibe. Its waterfront promenade, historic streets, and nearby wetlands offer easy day trips.
Poti serves as a gateway to Kolkhida landscapes and the broader western Georgia coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked bread and Georgian cheese. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets, stopping to admire the beautiful architecture that reflects the city's rich history. Be sure to visit the Poti Lighthouse, a symbol of the city, and take in the stunning views of the Black Sea.
In the afternoon, explore the Poti Museum of Archaeology, where you can learn about the ancient Colchis civilization and see fascinating artifacts. Following your visit, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and watching the boats come and go. Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant that serves delicious local seafood, savoring the flavors of the region.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant, sampling khachapuri and other local specialties. After your meal, take a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. End your evening with a visit to a local bar, where you can unwind with a glass of Georgian wine and enjoy live music.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Poti's beautiful beaches, known for their golden sands and clear waters. Spend the morning swimming in the Black Sea or simply lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun. For those seeking adventure, try your hand at paddleboarding or jet skiing, with equipment readily available for rent.
After a morning of fun in the sun, have lunch at a beachside café, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the water. In the afternoon, join a guided boat tour that explores the coastline, allowing you to see Poti from a different perspective and possibly spot some local wildlife. The tour may include stops at secluded beaches and picturesque coves, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
As evening falls, retreat back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a beachfront restaurant for your evening meal, where you can savor grilled fish paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, enjoy a beach bonfire or a quiet walk along the shore, taking in the stars shining brightly over the Black Sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍽️Restaurant meal for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨1 night at a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and relaxed pace
- Gateway to Kolkhida wetlands and western Georgia coast
- Smaller nightlife compared to Batumi
- Language barrier for non-Georgian speakers
- "Gamarjoba" - Hello
- "Madloba" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Poti
Visit one of these nice places.
A long waterfront walkway ideal for golden-hour photography of boats and the harbor.
Iconic beacon with dramatic sea backdrops and nautical foregrounds.
Narrow lanes, pastel facades, and courtyards offering authentic street photography moments.
Expansive wetlands with reflected skies and rich birdlife for landscape photos.
Food in Poti
Poti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic Georgian bread stuffed with cheese; available in many bakeries and eateries.
Must-Try!
Chicken in walnut sauce, a regional favorite in Samegrelo.
Fried eggplant slices topped with walnut paste and coriander.
Green herb and walnut pastes rolled into small bites.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, and seafood; try grilled fish by the stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Georgians are warm and hospitable; accepting tea or food is common.
Casual clothing is fine in most places; modest attire is appreciated for religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Poti
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a 5–10% tip is customary in restaurants and cafés.
Cash in Georgian Lari (GEL) is widely accepted; cards are common in hotels and larger venues; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid along the coast with sea breezes; bring sun protection and light clothing.
Milder temperatures and colorful light; ideal for outdoor walks and birdwatching.
Relatively mild for the region but damp and windy; expect rain and cool nights.
Refreshingly mild; landscapes bloom and hiking trails reopen.
Poti at Night
Hiking in Poti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland and forest trails offering birdwatching and scenic marsh views.
Airports
How to reach Poti by plane.
Closest major airport, about 40–60 minutes by car; seasonal flights to several European cities.
A larger hub about 2–3 hours by road; serves a broad range of international destinations.
Georgia's main international gateway; longer transfer to Poti but frequent flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Georgians with warm hospitality.
Communities tied to port activities and seafood trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and matches are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Georgian dishes can be vegetarian by substituting meat with beans, greens, or mushroom options; look for pkhali, lobio, and grilled vegetables.