Things To Do
in Poti

Poti is a vibrant port city located on the Black Sea coast of Georgia, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It serves as a major hub for shipping and trade, contributing to its diverse and bustling atmosphere. The city features a blend of modern development and historical architecture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Georgian coastal life.

Additionally, Poti is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for both urban exploration and outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Poti
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Poti Cathedral, an important religious site with stunning architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Georgian pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the Poti Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the city's ancient history and artifacts. Stroll through the vibrant Poti Central Market to experience the local culture and try some street food.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Black Sea. After dinner, take a walk along the waterfront promenade to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start with a visit to the nearby Kolkheti National Park, where you can explore its unique wetlands and rich biodiversity. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art galleries and shops in Poti that showcase the work of local artists and craftsmen. Take some time to relax at a local café or park.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at one of Poti's popular bars or clubs, where you can enjoy live music and dance with locals. Wrap up your night with a late-night snack from a street vendor.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🥖Loaf of bread$0.50
🍺Local beer$2
🚕Taxi fare within the city$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English speakers in some areas.
  • Public transportation may be less reliable.
  • Fewer luxury accommodations compared to larger cities.
  • "გამარჯობა" - Hello
  • "მადლობა" - Thank you
  • "ბოდიშით" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "კარგი" - Good
  • "გთხოვთ" - Please

Places to Visit in Poti

Visit one of these nice places.

Poti Lighthouse

An iconic structure providing a stunning backdrop for sunset photography.

Kolkheti National Park

A picturesque area with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature photography.

Poti Cathedral

The grand architecture of this cathedral makes it a must-capture site.

Culinary Guide

Food in Poti

Poti offers a delightful culinary experience with a rich variety of local dishes that reflect Georgian cuisine's unique flavors.

Poti Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khachapuri

A traditional Georgian cheese-filled bread, often served hot and gooey.

Must-Try!

Khinkali

Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat and herbs, perfect for a hearty meal.

Adjika

A spicy garlic and chili paste, commonly used as a condiment with various dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Poti Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food.

Street Vendors

Offering a range of snacks, including grilled meats and pastries, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Poti experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 5 to 10°C (41 to 50°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being late spring and early autumn. The proximity to the Black Sea moderates temperatures, making Poti an attractive year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, offering your seat or greeting them first.

Hospitality

Georgians are known for their hospitality; it's polite to accept offers of food or drink.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and formal occasions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Poti is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, common precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's also advisable to have travel insurance and familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Poti

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, although rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the beaches, but be prepared for higher prices and crowds.

Autumn

A lovely season with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, ideal for hiking and exploration.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall; a quiet time to enjoy the local culture without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Poti at Night

Poti's nightlife is lively, with several bars and clubs offering a mix of traditional and modern music. Many venues feature live performances, and the atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming. The waterfront area has numerous spots where locals gather, making it an excellent place to socialize and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Poti

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lagodekhi National Park

Located a few hours' drive from Poti, offers stunning trails through forests and mountainous terrain.

Kolkheti National Park Trails

Various trails within the park provide opportunities for hiking amidst unique wetlands and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Poti by plane.

Batumi International Airport

Approximately 70 km from Poti, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Poti is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance. The waterfront area is ideal for leisurely strolls, and pedestrian-friendly pathways make it easy to navigate without a car. However, some outskirts may require transportation to explore fully.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Georgians

The majority ethnic group, proud of their cultural heritage and traditions.

Ethnic Minorities

Includes Armenians and Russians, contributing to the city's diverse cultural fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Poti, with local clubs and a strong fan base.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling has a rich history in Georgia, and Poti hosts various local competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Poti is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and marshrutkas (minibuses), which connect various parts of the city. However, during peak hours, some congestion may occur, particularly near the port area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Poti.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask about specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; it’s best to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Poti are basic but functional, with a few clinics and hospitals available. For serious medical issues, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Batumi or Tbilisi. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Georgia

Read more in our Georgia 2025 Travel Guide.

Georgia Travel Guide