Welcome to the fascinating world of the regions of Georgia, a Caucasus country that captivates with its geographical diversity and extraordinary cultural richness. From the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus to the Black Sea beaches, through wine valleys, historic cities and remote villages, each region of this small country in the South Caucasus offers a world unto itself.
Georgia is administratively divided into 9 regions (mkhare), 1 capital city (Tbilisi) and 2 autonomous republics (Adjara and Abkhazia), which is often summarised as "the 11 regions of Georgia". In this article we guide you through each one so you can plan your trip and discover everything this corner of the world has to offer.
Tbilisi, the Capital of Georgia
Tbilisi is not a region as such, but an independent administrative entity, though it is an essential stop on any trip to Georgia. The country's capital, it is also its political, economic and cultural heart.
The old city, declared a protected historic area, preserves carved wooden balconies, sulphur baths, Orthodox churches, a synagogue and a mosque. Its highlights include Sameba Cathedral, the Bridge of Peace, Narikala Fortress and the Abanotubani neighbourhood.
Kakheti, the Land of Wine
Kakheti is Georgia's "land of wine". Located in the east of the country, it borders Russia to the north and Azerbaijan to the south-east. This is where the country's winemaking tradition was born, with over 8,000 years of history, and where varieties such as Saperavi, Rkatsiteli and Kisi are cultivated.
Its highlights include the fortified city of Sighnaghi, Alaverdi Monastery, the city of Telavi, the David Gareja rock complex and Vashlovani National Park. A must-visit for wine tourism lovers.
Kvemo Kartli
Located in the south-east of the country, between Tbilisi and the border with Azerbaijan, Kvemo Kartli is a multicultural region with a strong historical presence of Azerbaijani communities. Highlights include the industrial city of Rustavi, Dmanisi Monastery (one of the most important palaeoanthropological sites in Europe) and Birtvisi Fortress.
Shida Kartli
Shida Kartli lies in the centre of the country, to the north of Tbilisi. The main city is Gori, known as the birthplace of Joseph Stalin and home to the museum dedicated to his figure. Very close by is the impressive rock complex of Uplistsikhe, one of the oldest cave cities in the Caucasus.
Mtskheta-Mtianeti
This region combines history and mountains. In the south lies Mtskheta, the ancient spiritual capital of the country, with Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In the north, Mtskheta-Mtianeti stretches to the peaks of the Greater Caucasus, with Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) and the Gergeti Trinity Church as its great icons. It is the natural gateway to discover Mount Kazbek and the famous Georgian Military Highway.
Imereti
In the centre-west of Georgia, Imereti is home to Kutaisi, one of the country's oldest cities and its third most populous. Highlights include Gelati Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Prometheus Cave, the Sataplia reserve and the Martvili and Okatse canyons.
Adjara
Adjara is the autonomous republic in the south-west, with its capital in Batumi, the great coastal city on the Black Sea. Batumi combines modern architecture, seafront promenades, casinos, the Botanical Garden and a lively nightlife. Also notable are Gonio-Apsaros Fortress and the green landscapes of the interior.
This region is home to one of the most famous versions of khachapuri: the adjaruli khachapuri, boat-shaped and filled with melted cheese and egg.
Guria
A neighbour of Adjara, Guria also has a Black Sea coastline. Its highlights are the resort town of Ureki, famous for its black magnetic sand, and the regional capital, Ozurgeti. The region is known for its hospitality and its own gastronomic and musical traditions.
Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti
One of Georgia's least explored regions, and for that very reason one of the most authentic. Mountains, forests, lakes and traditional villages. Its capital is Ambrolauri and the region is also known for its semi-sweet wines such as Khvanchkara.
Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
In the north-west, this region combines Megrelian culture with the Svan world. In its upper part lies Svaneti, home to the town of Mestia and the village of Ushguli, one of the highest permanently inhabited places in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also worth visiting are Martvili Monastery, the Martvili and Okatse canyons, the city of Zugdidi and the Kolkheti nature reserve. A spectacular region for trekking and culture lovers.
Samtskhe-Javakheti
In the south of the country, bordering Turkey and Armenia, Samtskhe-Javakheti is a mountainous region of wide plains and numerous historic monuments. Here you will find Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe, the spa town of Borjomi (famous for its mineral waters), Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and, above all, the impressive cave city of Vardzia, carved out in the 12th century.
Abkhazia, an Occupied Region
Abkhazia is, under international law, part of Georgia's territory, though since the conflict of 1992–1993 it has functioned as a separatist territory under Russian control. The international community, with very few exceptions, does not recognise its independence. In practice, access for travellers is restricted and official guidance advises against travelling to the area [VERIFY with authorities before planning any visit].
Discover the Regions of Georgia with Iberogeorgia
Ready to explore the regions of Georgia with a specialist Spanish-speaking tour operator? At Iberogeorgia we design tailor-made trips across the whole country: from wine routes through Kakheti to trekking in Svaneti, Black Sea getaways or cultural visits to Mtskheta, Vardzia and the gems of Imereti.
Our local team will accompany you in Spanish, with handpicked accommodation, comfortable transport and the expertise of people who know every valley and every monastery in the country. Contact us and start planning your dream trip through the regions of Georgia.