What to Buy in Batumi?

Batumi is the kind of Black Sea city that slips easily into your memory: palm-lined boulevards, pastel old-town corners, and that salty breeze that makes even a short walk feel like a little holiday. It is also a place where shopping for gifts is not just an add-on, it is woven into daily life, especially in markets where locals chat, taste, bargain, and laugh. If you are wondering what to buy in Batumi, think beyond quick trinkets and focus on items that carry the region’s flavors and craftsmanship. Adjara, the region Batumi belongs to, has its own food traditions and a warm, proud culture of hosting, and that spirit shows up in what you can take home. The best Batumi souvenirs are the ones that feel useful, delicious, or personal, and they tend to come with a story attached. Below you will find Batumi souvenirs and local products that travelers love bringing back for family, friends, and, honestly, for themselves too.
Adjarian Wine
Adjara’s humid coastal climate and nearby mountain slopes create a distinctive wine culture, and Batumi is a surprisingly fun place to explore it. You will see both traditional Georgian styles and modern bottlings, often with rich aromas and a slightly rustic charm. Wine gifting is deeply rooted in Georgian hospitality, so bringing a bottle home can feel like carrying a piece of that generosity with you. If you want something that feels truly local, ask for wines connected to western Georgia and the coastal region, rather than only the most famous varieties from elsewhere. Many shops will let you taste before buying, which makes choosing less intimidating and more like a mini experience. For what to buy in Batumi that feels classic and celebratory, a well-chosen local wine is an easy win.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Batumi Central Bazaar wine stalls
- Old Town wine and specialty food shops
- Europe Square area specialty stores
- Tourist-friendly wine tasting corners near the boulevard
Churchkhela
Churchkhela is one of the most recognizable Georgian sweets, and it often hangs in rows like edible ornaments. It is made by dipping strings of nuts into thickened grape juice, then drying them until they become chewy and satisfying. Locals often keep it around as a snack for travel days, long workdays, or when guests drop by unexpectedly. The texture is part of the charm: firm on the outside, dense and nutty within, with a natural sweetness that does not feel overly sugary. It travels well, which makes it one of the most practical Batumi souvenirs for a suitcase or carry-on. If you want a gift that feels traditional, tasty, and easy to share, this is one of the smartest picks.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Batumi Central Bazaar sweet rows
- Old Town confectionery counters
- Street stalls near the main pedestrian areas
- Small grocery shops with local snack shelves
Citrus Jam and Tangerine Sweets
Adjara is famous in Georgia for citrus, especially mandarins and oranges, and Batumi often smells faintly of fruit in the cooler months. Citrus jam is a local favorite, and it makes a thoughtful gift because it feels both homemade and region-specific. Depending on the recipe, you might find peel-forward marmalades, softer spreads, or even candied citrus slices in syrup. Locals enjoy these with tea, on bread, or alongside simple desserts, and it fits nicely into a cozy morning routine back home. Pack it carefully, and look for sealed jars for easier travel. For Batumi souvenirs that taste like the region, citrus treats are hard to beat.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Farmers’ tables at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Homemade preserves stalls in Old Town lanes
- Specialty food corners near Europe Square
- Local grocery shops with regional product shelves
Georgian Tea from the Adjara Region
Tea has a long history along Georgia’s western coast, and the humid climate near Batumi supports lush tea-growing areas. Georgian tea is quietly making a comeback, and many travelers are pleasantly surprised by its gentle, aromatic character. Some blends lean grassy and light, while others feel deeper and more robust, especially when brewed strong the way locals like it. Tea is a gift that suits almost anyone, and it is easy to pack without stress. It also pairs beautifully with citrus jam or churchkhela, so you can build a small themed gift set. When people ask what to buy in Batumi, tea is an underrated answer that feels both local and elegant.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Specialty tea shelves at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Small gourmet shops in the Old Town
- Local product sections in larger supermarkets
- Souvenir shops that focus on edible gifts
Adjarian Honey
Mountain meadows not far from Batumi produce fragrant honey that locals respect and regularly buy. Depending on the season and flowers, you might find lighter, delicate honey or darker, more herbal varieties. Honey is deeply tied to home remedies in the region, often stirred into tea or used to soothe a sore throat. As a gift, it feels wholesome and practical, especially if you choose a tightly sealed jar. Many vendors will happily explain what their bees fed on and which honey is best for what, and those little conversations make the purchase feel personal. For Batumi souvenirs that reflect local daily life, honey is a sweet, sincere choice.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Beekeeper stalls at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Weekend-style farmers’ stands in town
- Local food shops in central neighborhoods
- Market tables near Old Town entrances
Svanetian Salt and Georgian Spice Mixes
Even if the spice blend comes from another region, it is widely loved in Batumi kitchens and commonly sold in the markets. Svanetian salt is a fragrant mix of salt, herbs, and spices that turns simple potatoes, eggs, or roasted vegetables into something special. You will also see spice blends for stews, grilled meats, and soups, and the colors alone are worth a stop. Locals use these seasonings daily, which is why they make such practical gifts, especially for friends who like cooking. Ask the vendor what each mix suits best, and you will often get a mini cooking lesson on the spot. If you want Batumi souvenirs that deliver flavor at home, spices are light to carry and big on impact.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Spice lanes at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Old Town dry goods shops
- Small neighborhood markets with bulk spices
- Specialty food stalls near main squares
Tkemali Sauce and Homemade Adjika
Tkemali, a tangy plum sauce, is a Georgian staple that wakes up grilled foods and roasted vegetables with one spoonful. Adjika is another favorite, usually a spicy, aromatic paste that can range from mildly warm to seriously fiery. In Batumi, you will see homemade versions sold in jars, often made by families who have perfected their recipe over years. These sauces are part of everyday tables, especially when friends gather and meals stretch long into conversation. They make fun gifts because they are not just “souvenir food,” they are the kind of thing locals actually use. If you are building a “what to buy in Batumi” food bag, adding one jar of tkemali and one of adjika makes it feel complete.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Homemade sauce stalls at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Pickle and preserve counters in local markets
- Small shops specializing in Georgian pantry items
- Food stalls in Old Town with jarred goods
Chacha and Fruit Infusions
Chacha is Georgia’s famous grape spirit, often compared to strong homemade liquors, and it has a real place in local celebrations. In Batumi, you may also find fruit infusions where chacha is flavored with herbs, berries, or citrus, giving it a softer aroma. This is the type of gift that feels traditional, but it also comes with a bit of storytelling, because every family seems to have an opinion on what “proper” chacha should taste like. If you buy it, look for sealed bottles for travel and consider smaller sizes for gifting. It is best chosen with care, especially if the recipient enjoys bold flavors and cultural food traditions. For Batumi souvenirs that feel festive and authentically Georgian, chacha is a memorable pick.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Licensed specialty alcohol shops in the center
- Market counters selling sealed regional spirits
- Old Town shops focused on Georgian delicacies
- Larger supermarkets with Georgian spirits sections
Suluguni Cheese in Travel-Friendly Packaging
Suluguni is a beloved Georgian cheese with a springy bite, often eaten fresh, melted, or tucked into warm bread. While fresh cheese is best enjoyed right away, many places sell vacuum-packed versions that travel more safely. Locals use suluguni in everyday cooking, from breakfast plates to hearty dinners, and it is one of those foods that tastes like “home” to many Georgians. As a gift, it works well for food lovers, especially if you pair it with spices or a jar of tkemali. Just be mindful of your travel time and storage needs, and choose packaging that looks properly sealed. If you want what to buy in Batumi that feels genuinely local and delicious, suluguni is a strong contender.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Dairy sections at Batumi Central Bazaar
- Local cheese counters in neighborhood markets
- Supermarkets with vacuum-packed regional cheeses
- Small food shops specializing in Georgian staples
Handmade Felt Slippers and Wool Crafts
When you want a non-food gift, felt slippers and wool crafts are both practical and charming. The craft tradition ties to rural life and mountain regions nearby, where wool is a familiar material and warmth is essential. Many slippers come with simple patterns, natural tones, or colorful folk-inspired designs, and they make an unexpectedly cozy souvenir. Locals appreciate items that are useful, and that mindset carries into gifting too, which is why these crafts feel culturally fitting. They are also easy to size in a flexible way, since felt has some give. For Batumi souvenirs that feel handmade and comforting, wool crafts are a lovely choice.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Artisan corners in the Old Town
- Souvenir rows near the main boulevard
- Market stalls with handmade textiles
- Craft tables around central squares during busy seasons
Enamel Jewelry and Traditional-Inspired Accessories
Georgian enamel work has a long artistic heritage, and modern makers often draw inspiration from older motifs and colors. In Batumi, you can find earrings, pendants, and small accessories that echo classic patterns without feeling too heavy or ceremonial. These pieces make great gifts because they feel personal and wearable, and they do not take up much space. If you are shopping for someone who loves meaningful details, look for designs that reference nature, vines, or traditional ornament shapes. Many sellers will explain the symbolism behind patterns, which adds a nice layer to the present. For Batumi souvenirs that feel refined and culturally rooted, enamel-style jewelry is a standout.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Old Town artisan boutiques
- Souvenir and craft shops near Europe Square
- Handicraft stalls along popular walking streets
- Small galleries featuring local makers
Hand-Carved Wooden Souvenirs
Wood carving is a classic craft in Georgia, and you can find small carved items in Batumi that feel warm and timeless. Popular choices include decorative boxes, small icons of local architecture, kitchen utensils, or simple ornaments with folk patterns. The best pieces have clean carving lines and a smooth finish, and they often smell faintly of wood, which makes them feel even more authentic. Locals appreciate sturdy, honest materials, and carved wood fits that sensibility perfectly. This is also a good category for gifts to older relatives or anyone who likes home decor with a story. If you are curating Batumi souvenirs that last, carved wood is a safe and tasteful pick.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Old Town craft stalls and small shops
- Souvenir stands near the promenade
- Market areas with handmade household goods
- Weekend craft tables in central pedestrian zones
Black Sea Inspired Soaps and Natural Cosmetics
Batumi’s coastal mood inspires many small cosmetic gifts, especially soaps and balms made with local botanicals and sea-themed ideas. You may find citrus scents, herbal blends, or gentle exfoliating soaps that feel like a small spa moment at home. These items are popular because they are easy to gift, easy to pack, and they suit a wide range of tastes. They also connect nicely to Batumi’s seaside identity, which is exactly what many travelers want from a souvenir. Look for well-sealed packaging and simple ingredient lists if you are shopping for sensitive skin. For what to buy in Batumi that feels light, fresh, and practical, natural cosmetics are a smart option.
Where to buy it in Batumi
- Souvenir and cosmetic stalls near the boulevard
- Old Town shops that focus on local crafts
- Market stands with handmade soaps
- Small gift shops around central squares
Batumi is a city where souvenirs do not have to be generic, because the local culture gives you plenty of meaningful options, from citrus preserves to handmade crafts. If you keep your shopping grounded in what people here actually eat, use, and gift to one another, you will end up with Batumi souvenirs that feel warm and real, not just decorative. When friends ask you later what to buy in Batumi, you will be able to answer with tastes, textures, and stories, not just item names. And if you want to plan the rest of your trip around the city’s best neighborhoods, walks, and local stops, you can pair this list with a “Batumi Travel Guide” and a “Places to Visit in Batumi” article as helpful internal links for your readers.
