Batumi – Winner of the World Travel Awards 2025: Best Tourist Destination in Europe

Photo: WorldTravelAwards.com

Batumi was
awarded the prestigious title Europe’s Leading All-Season Destination 2025 at the ceremony of the World Travel Awards, confirming its status as one of Europe’s most dynamically developing resorts. This title is given to destinations that can receive tourists year-round, offering full holiday potential beyond the traditional summer season.

The award is one of the most authoritative and prestigious in the global tourism industry, and Batumi has now won it for the seventh time. The 2025 ceremony took place in Italy, on Sardinia. Batumi competed for the all-season destination title with leading European cities — Budapest, Geneva, Munich, Oslo, Salzburg, Stockholm and Tallinn. Victory under such strong competition confirms Batumi’s high status among Europe’s tourism centers.

The Chairman of the Government of Adjara, Sulkhan Tamazashvili emphasised that this achievement was the result of coordinated efforts by the state, regional authorities, business and residents. “Tourism remains a priority for the government — not only as a driver of economic growth but also as a means of showcasing Georgia’s cultural identity,” he said. “Our history, traditions and values make the country unique, and by preserving them we reinforce the region’s potential, benefiting every family and strengthening the country’s international image.”

The best destination among European islands was recognised as Portugal’s Madeira. In Greece, Eastern Macedonia & Thrace were highlighted. Cannes was awarded as the best festival & event destination, Madrid as best for business meetings & conferences. In aviation, the leader was Lufthansa and Zurich Airport. Swiss International Air Lines received double recognition for Best Business & First Class, and the lounge THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines & Lexus was named the best airport lounge in Europe.

Founded by Graham Cooke, the World Travel Awards ceremony in Sardinia was described as “one of the most inspiring in recent years.” “Our winners are the benchmark for tourism excellence. Each helps raise the bar and develop the industry at the continental level.” The award, established in 1993, remains the main standard for travel industry quality.

Batumi’s victory means recognition of the city as a universal tourism destination with developed cultural, business and event infrastructure. The capital of Adjara combines a sea climate and mountain landscapes, modern hotels and diverse cuisine—making it attractive for both leisure and business travellers. The luxury segment is actively developing in the region.

In the resort zone of Gonio, international brands are increasingly present. There the major Wyndham Grand Batumi Gonio complex is under construction, comprising five properties — from hotels and residences to town-houses and villas. The hotel–residential complex is managed by Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA, a major operator. Also in that area the UAE developer Eagle Hills plans a large Gonio Yachts & Marina project occupying around 260 hectares on the coast and combining a yacht marina, premium residences, hotels and recreation zones. The concept emphasises luxury, technology and environmental care, preserving natural landscapes and bird migration corridors.

Record indicators for Georgia’s tourism visits and revenues support further industry development and strengthen the country’s status in Eastern Europe. Batumi’s international recognition acts as a key stimulus for investments and new infrastructure projects, bolstering the region’s attractiveness for travellers, investors and developers.