Where to exchange currency in Batumi and is it worth doing at the airport?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 3 days ago
TL;DR
Exchange rates at Batumi airport are poor, but exchanging a small amount just to cover the taxi is fine — 24-hour currency exchange offices in the city center offer much better rates. If you need a local SIM card, buy it in the morning at an office for a cheaper price, or set up an eSIM in advance.
What the community said
One traveler simply exchanged dollars for lari right at the airport, noting that even though the rate is worse there, local taxis are so cheap it doesn't really matter.
3 days ago Airport exchange (USD → GEL)
There are plenty of exchange offices in Batumi, some open 24/7. Since the airport rate is bad, exchange only a small amount there — just enough for the taxi into town — and change the rest at a city exchange office.
3 days ago 24-hour exchange offices downtown
A local SIM card (e.g. Cellfie) is cheaper if bought in the morning directly at the operator's office rather than at the airport.
3 days ago Cellfie operator office
One tip for check-in: ask to postpone the accommodation payment to the next day and offer a small deposit (around 5,000 RUB equivalent) instead — this way you can exchange currency at a good rate calmly, rather than rushing on arrival night.
3 days ago ~5,000 RUB deposit instead of paying in full on day one
Yandex Go works well for taxis in Batumi, with cash payment accepted — check the fare estimate in the app beforehand to know what to expect.
3 days ago Yandex Go app, cash payment