Day 1 - Wednesday

Arrival in Armenia, meeting at the airport, transfer to the city (in case of booking additional nights, a free transfer is provided for arrival / departure).

Free time in the city.

 

For an additional fee: Price - $35 per person.

10:00 Etchmiadzin, Museum “Treasures of Etchmiadzin” Zvartnots (4-5 hours)

This journey will take you to the heart of Armenian spirituality, the Saint Ejmiatsin, where you will visit the Church of St. Hripsime, built on the site where St. Hripsime was martyred for spreading Christianity and refusing to marry King Trdat III. The church is a beautiful example of cruciform central-domed structures.

Next, we'll admire the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian buildings in the world, founded in the 4th century after Christianity was adopted in Armenia. The cathedral serves as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of the Catholicos of All Armenians. However, the cathedral is currently closed for restoration, so we'll take a look from the outside.

Our tour will also include a visit to the "Treasures of Etchmiadzin" museum, which showcases unique holy relics, including St. Geghard and the relics of Noah's Ark, both housed in intricate reliquaries.

Before returning, we'll stop at the Temple of Zvartnots, a 7th century temple that was once the largest temple of early medieval Armenian architecture. Although it collapsed in an earthquake in the 10th century, its ruins were discovered in the early 20th century and are now a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

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Day 2 - Thursday

10:00 Lake Sevan, Sevanavank, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin monasteries (9-10 hours)

Your first stop will be Lake Sevan, the largest mountain freshwater lake in the region, known as the "blue pearl" of Armenia. You'll then visit the historic Sevanavank Monastery, located on a peninsula in the northwestern part of the lake.

Next, head to the resort town of Dilijan, famously known for its mild climate and unique natural beauty. Here you'll have the opportunity to visit the architectural wonders of the Haghartsin and Goshavank Monasteries, both masterpieces of Armenian architecture. The Haghartsin Monastery was founded in the 11th-13th centuries and is comprised of three churches and a refectory. The Goshavank Monastery, named after the political figure and scientist Mkhitar Gosh, is home to several churches and a book depository, as well as famous khachkars.

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Day 3 - Friday

10:00 Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni village, winery (9-10 hours)

Embark on a journey through the heart of Armenia's fertility and winemaking culture in the Ararat Valley. Our first stop will be the revered Khor Virap Monastery, which offers stunning views of Mount Ararat and holds a rich history as the former spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. In the past, this site served as the location of St. Gregory the Illuminator's underground prison.

Next, we'll head to the Noravank Monastery, nestled within a narrow, winding gorge and surrounded by towering red cliffs. This unique two-story church of the Holy Mother of God is adorned with traditional Armenian ornaments, including a bas-relief of Father God blessing the Crucifixion and holding Adam's head. The grounds also feature khachkars created by the renowned artist Momik.

During the tour, we will also visit the Cave of Birds, where the world's oldest leather shoes, a skirt, and winery have been discovered.

Afterwards, it's time to indulge in the delicious flavors of Armenian wine. We will visit the village of Areni, known for its abundant wineries and its prized Areni grapes. You'll have the opportunity to take a guided tour and taste various wines at one of the local wineries.

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Day 4 - Saturday

08:30 Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Jvari monastery (all day, overnight)

Release of rooms in Yerevan, departure to Georgia (IMPORTANT!!!!! To cross the Georgian border, you need a passport!!!). Travel time - 5 hours, with stops.

After arriving in Tbilisi, we'll enjoy a delicious traditional Georgian lunch at a local restaurant (included in the tour price). Then, we'll check in to a centrally located 4-star hotel (the hotel name will be confirmed closer to the tour's start date).

Discover Mtskheta, the first capital of Christian Georgia and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, located where the Kura and Aragvi rivers converge. Visit the historic Svetitskhoveli cathedral and the Samtavro monastery, both of which have played a significant role in Georgia's religious history.

Explore Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a revered holy site for Christians, built in the 7th century where Saint Nino erected a cross. Admire the panoramic views of Mtskheta from this historic location.

We'll also spend some time in Tbilisi, strolling through the city center and taking in the beautiful views of the Kura River. Experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. From the narrow streets of the Narikala district to the spacious avenues of Rustaveli, Tbilisi is a unique blend of ancient and modern, offering something for everyone.

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Day 5 - Sunday

Kakheti, Sighnaghi, Bobde monastery, return to Yerevan

Discover the beauty of Kakheti on this tour with our travel agency! We start with a visit to the Bobde monastery, home to the relics of St. Nino, a 4th-century enlightener of Georgia. Although the original temple has not survived, a three-aisled cathedral dedicated to St. George now stands in its place. Next, we'll head to the charming town of Sighnaghi in eastern Georgia. This town was founded in the 17th century and boasts well-preserved fortress walls. Legend has it that the famous artist Niko Pirosmani once covered the town square with flowers for his beloved French actress Marguerite de Sèvres. Sighnaghi is often referred to as the "City of Lovers" due to its 24-hour wedding palace. The tour ends with a return trip to Yerevan.

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Day 6 - Monday

Free time in the city. Transfer to the airport.

 

Additional nights can be added (trasfer will be moved).