Capital of Adjara, Batumi is Georgia’s second most-visited city, counting more than 2 million visitors last year. It has a history stretching back to when the Greeks and Romans made their home here, as well as a vibrant mix of European and Asian architecture, elegant boulevards and squares that hark back to the 19th century and its prosperity as a free port.

Having left the Soviet Union in 1991, and reinvigorated by recent investment, Batumi’s cultural vibrancy is now a match for its mesmerizing scenery. Charm runs through its vibrant, characterful streets and lovingly restored buildings. Contrast adds to the intrigue. Batumi is a veritable feast, with an abundance of artefacts and masterpieces of modern art.

While first time in town, head to the seafront where the fresh air blows along the 7km-long Boulevard. This is the perfect place to stroll with an ice cream and really sink into holiday mode amid the palm trees, cafés, benches, dancing fountains and sculptures. See attractions like the Dolphinarium, with its regular shows, the ferris wheel for old-fashioned fun and landmarks like the lighthouse and modern sculptures in the Miracle Park.

Crowds gather on this stretch at 7pm daily as the Ali and Nino Monument springs into life. Two figures move towards an embrace then pass through each other, depicting the story of eternal love between an Azerbaijani boy and Georgian girl. Right hereabout enrich your day with incredible views from the 130m-high Alphabet Tower, a seafront landmark shaped like a strand of DNA and adorned with 33 letters from the nation’s unique alphabet, enlisted by UNESCO.

If high up places are your thing, then catch the cable car 250m up to Anuria Mountain and enjoy a beautiful sunset. On the way back down, your surroundings will change with the glowing lights of the city skyline.