Day 1 - Monday

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 - $40 per person.

09:00 Haghpat monastery, Zarni-Parni complex, Akhtala fortress, Sanahin monastery (13-14 hours)

Join us on a journey to northern Armenia, where we'll explore two stunning monasteries - Haghpat and Sanahin - both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Our first stop is at Haghpat Monastery, a complex situated on a plateau surrounded by breathtaking gorges. It was once partially used as a residence for the Catholicos of Armenians and was home to the famous poet Sayat-Nova for a period. The highlight of the visit is the magnificent three-tiered bell tower, built in 1245, with a seven-sided belfry rotunda.

Next, we'll visit the medieval cave complex Zarni-Parni, where guests can immerse themselves in the local culture and history through a restored complex of buildings, a vineyard, and a museum displaying exhibits of the local lifestyle.

Our journey continues to the majestic Akhtala Fortress, located on a high mountain plateau surrounded by deep gorges on three sides.

Finally, we'll end the tour at the Sanahin Monastery, a church complex dating back to the 10th-13th centuries. It was also a major center for scientific study, including a scriptorium where ancient spiritual and scientific books were copied.

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Day 2 - Tuesday

10:00 Sightseeing tour of Yerevan, Erebuni Fortress (3-4 hours)

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, was founded in 782 BC on the site of the ancient fortress. Known as the "pink city," Yerevan is a stunning destination filled with buildings constructed from pink tuff.

During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to experience the rich culture, history, and daily life of the city. You'll start with a visit to the Republic Square, where you'll see musical fountains and important landmarks like the Government building and the National Art Gallery.

Your journey continues along the historic Abovyan street, one of the oldest in the city, to the impressive Cascade architectural complex. Built in the USSR, the Cascade connects the lower and upper parts of the city and today, there is a museum of modern art in its adjacent park that features works by artists like Fernando Botero and Barry Flanagan. Climb the 572 steps of the stairs to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Erebuni Museum and the ruins of the fortress, which was constructed in 782 BC by Urartian King Argishti I. Excavations of the fortress began in the 19th century and continued in the 1950s, leading to the discovery of a cuneiform inscription by King Argishti about the founding of the fortress.

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Day 3 - Wednesday

10:00 Khor Virap, Azat Reservoir, Garni, Geghard, lavash baking (8-9 hours)

The tour will take you to several notable landmarks including Khor Virap Monastery, Azat Reservoir, Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, and culminate with a unique experience of participating in the traditional ceremony of baking Armenian lavash bread.

The first stop is the Khor Virap Monastery, a revered shrine in Armenia, known for its views of Mount Ararat and its historical significance as the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The underground prison where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned is also located here.

As you make your way from Khor Virap to Garni, you'll take in the stunning views of the colorful Azat reservoir. The next destination is the Geghard Monastery, founded in the 4th century and known for its cave churches and acoustics. The monastery has been listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Next, you'll visit the pagan temple of Garni, a well-preserved monument of paganism and Hellenism. The temple has an interesting history as it was later converted into the summer residence of Armenian kings and is surrounded by the remains of an ancient fortress, royal palace, and royal bath.

Lastly, immerse yourself in Armenian culture by taking part in the ceremony of baking lavash bread. This traditional bread-making technique has been included in the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List. Enjoy a taste of the freshly baked bread as well.

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Day 4 - 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 5 - Friday

09:00 Gyumri (Museum of Urban Life, Black Fortress, walk around the city), Harichavank Monastery (10-11 hours)

Join us on a journey to one of the most vibrant cities in Armenia, Gyumri, where ancient traditions are deeply ingrained in the local culture. Take a stroll through its historic streets and immerse yourself in the city's rich past. The sounds of the blacksmith's hammer and the strong voice of the phaeton and chaise makers are still palpable in the air. Marvel at the city's beautifully preserved residential buildings, a testament to its architectural prowess.

Our tour will start at the Museum of Urban Life and National Culture, where you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's history, culture, and way of life. Afterwards, we'll visit the Black Fortress, a complex of military and architectural structures that served as a defense against invaders. You'll see the Alexandropol Fortress, with its three gates, the model of the St. Alexandra Church, and the northern and southern fortresses.

Lastly, we'll make our way to Harichavank Monastery, believed to have been established in the 7th century. During the 19th century, the monastery served as the summer residence of the Armenian Catholicoses. This visit is sure to be a spiritual and cultural highlight of your trip.

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Day 6 - 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 7 - 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 8 - Monday

Free time in the city. Transfer to the airport.

 

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