Stretching along the Black Sea at the base of the Caucasus Mountains, Gagra is a coastal holiday town in Abkhazia. It was originally established as an Ancient Greek colony before becoming part of the Roman Empire and later served as a major trade hub for Genoese and Venetian merchants.
Things to do in Gagra
Wander around the ruins of the Abaata fortress, which was constructed by the Anchabadze dynasty in the 4th or 5th century AD. One of the only structures still standing is a 6th-century three-nave basilica that was completely reconstructed in 1902 at Princess Eugenia Maximilanovna’s request. During the Soviet era, the church was used as a weaponry museum before returning to religious use.
Another architectural landmark not to miss is the Restaurant Gagripsh, which was famously purchased by the Prince of Oldenburg at the 1900 World Exhibition in Paris. Admire its Norwegian-built clock before stepping inside to marvel at the elaborate wooden interior and sparkling chandeliers while dining on authentic Georgian fare.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the Gagra Water Park, which is packed with swimming pools and slides to suit all ages. There are plenty of sun loungers where you can kick back while watching the little ones play in the pirate-themed water playground. Alternatively, you can spend a day on the pebbly beach of Gagra and go swimming in the refreshing waters of the Black Sea.
Getting around Gagra
Sochi International Airport in neighbouring Russia is the closest airport to Gagra while David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport is just over four hours away. Regular trains connecting Moscow and Sukhumi stop in Gagra and local buses travel to the surrounding towns and villages.