Armenia's Timeless Wonders

Day 2: Art & Heritage

Yerevan city tour – History Museum of Armenia – National Art Gallery (~60 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a captivating journey through Yerevan, the heart of Armenia, where ancient history and vibrant modernity converge in a city teeming with charm. Begin your exploration in Republic Square, a grand expanse framed by stunning neo-classical architecture, where the dancing fountains come alive at twilight, casting a magical glow over the city. The grandeur of the Opera House stands as a testament to the city’s artistic spirit, while the surrounding gardens offer a tranquil escape with their lush greenery and inviting pathways. No visit to Yerevan would be complete without a stroll down the lively Northern Avenue, a vibrant thoroughfare bustling with energy and dotted with contemporary art installations. The cascading waterfalls of the Cascade Complex beckon, leading you to a stunning rooftop garden where the city unfolds beneath you like a vibrant tapestry. The History Museum of Armenia stands as a revered custodian of the nation’s rich and diverse past, nestled in the heart of Yerevan Republic Square. This grand institution, housed in an elegant neo-classical building, is a treasure trove of Armenia’s historical and cultural heritage, offering a compelling journey through time. The National Art Gallery of Armenia is a beacon of creativity and cultural heritage, beautifully situated in the vibrant Republic Square of Yerevan. As you enter this esteemed institution, you’re greeted by an atmosphere of refined elegance and artistic splendor that reflects the rich tapestry of Armenia’s artistic legacy.

Welcome dinner in Yerevan. 

Overnight at the hotel in Yerevan. (B/-/D)

Optional visit: Ararat Brandy Factory
The Ararat Brandy Factory, located in Yerevan, Armenia, is a historic and prestigious producer of Armenian brandy. Founded in 1887, it has a long legacy of crafting high-quality spirits that reflect the rich traditions of Armenian distilling. The factory is renowned for its commitment to using traditional methods and premium ingredients, which contribute to the distinctive taste and quality of its brandy.
15 USD per person

Day 3: From the Ancient Manuscripts to Timeless Ruins

Yerevan-Echmiadzin-Zvartnots-Matenadaran-Vernissage (~ 60 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Vagharshapat. Echmiadzin Cathedral, nestled in the serene city of Vagharshapat, is one of Armenia's most sacred and historically significant landmarks. Revered as the oldest cathedral in the world, it serves as the spiritual heart of the Armenian Apostolic Church and a profound symbol of Armenia’s deep-rooted Christian heritage. The
ruins of Zvartnots, an awe-inspiring archaeological site located near Echmiadzin, offer a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s medieval past. Once a grandiose cathedral, Zvartnots was
built in the 7th century and stood as a majestic testament to early Christian architecture and innovation. The Matenadaran, officially known as the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient
Manuscripts, considers as a venerable repository of Armenia’s literary and historical treasures. Renowned for its unparalleled collection of ancient manuscripts and documents, the Matenadaran is a beacon of Armenia’s intellectual and cultural heritage. In the evening, visit Vernissage, the vibrant open-air market in Yerevan, is a captivating celebration of Armenian art and craftsmanship. Located in the heart of the city, this bustling bazaar offers a rich tapestry of local culture, creativity, and tradition.
Dinner at the local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel in Yerevan. (B/-/D)

Day 4: Armenia's Sacred Landscapes

Yerevan – Khor Virap – Noravank – Goris (~265 m)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Ararat Province. Visit Khor Virap, perched on a dramatic hilltop in the Ararat Plain, a site of profound historical and spiritual significance, offering breathtaking views and a deep connection to Armenia’s ancient Christian heritage. The name "Khor Virap" translates to "deep dungeon" a reference to its historical use as a place of imprisonment and persecution. Drive to Noravank. Noravank is a breathtaking monastery complex renowned for its stunning natural setting and architectural splendor. This historic site, located about 122 kilometers from Yerevan, is celebrated for its striking red rock formations, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the ancient church structures and add to the site's ethereal beauty. Drive to Goris.
Overnight at the hotel in Goris. (B/-/-)

Optional visit: Noa Winery
Noa Winery, located in the Ararat Valley of Armenia, is a distinguished producer of Armenian wines known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Established with a vision to blend traditional winemaking techniques with modern practices, Noa Winery has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. The winery is situated in a region famed for its rich volcanic soil and favorable climate, which provide ideal conditions for growing a diverse range of grape varieties. Noa Winery focuses on producing a variety of wines, from robust reds and crisp whites to elegant rosés, each reflecting the characteristics of the Armenian landscape.

Package: Classic Wine Tour-2, 27 USD per person
Drink of the day: Noa Tozot Rosé, Noa White Cuvée, Noa Red Classic, Noa Natural Sweet

Day 5: Exploring Armenia's Majestic Horizon

Goris – Tatev Monastery via Wings of Tatev – Karahunj – Selim Pass – Sevan (~320 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Tatev Monastery is one of Armenia’s most historically significant religious sites. Founded in the 9th century, this medieval monastery complex is renowned not only for its spiritual heritage but also for its breathtaking natural setting and architectural grandeur. We will reach Tatev Monastery via Wings of Tatev, the longest cable car. Visit Karahunj, often referred to as Armenia’s Stonehenge, an ancient and enigmatic megalithic site located in the Syunik Province, near the village of Sisian. Drive to Sevan through Selim Pass.
Drive to Tsgahkunk Village.
Overnight at the hotel in Sevan. (B/-/-)

Day 6: In the hug of UNESCO Heritages

Sevan – Dilijan – Bogdan Cross-making studio – Haghpat & Sanahin – Dzoraget (~180 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Dilijan. Short city tour in Dilijan. Drive to Vanadzor. Here, we will have cross-making masterclass. Bogdan has made cross-stones for 30 years. He believes crafts should be taught at schools. His studio is open to anyone who seeks the space to create. Visit Haghpat & Sanahin Monasteries. Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as a testament to the rich architectural and intellectual heritage of medieval Armenia. Drive to Dzoraget.
Overnight at the hotel in Dzoraget. (B/-/-)

Day 7: Armenia's Historic Gems

Dzoraget – Saghmosavank – Amberd – Yerevan (~190 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Saghmosavank Monastery, perched elegantly on a dramatic cliff overlooking the picturesque Kasagh River Gorge, is a stunning example of medieval Armenian ecclesiastical architecture and a serene destination for those seeking both spiritual reflection and natural beauty. Located in the Aragatsotn Province, this historic site offers a remarkable blend of historical significance, architectural elegance, and breathtaking surroundings. Visit Amberd Fortress. It is a captivating historical site known for its striking location and impressive medieval architecture. Drive to Yerevan.
Overnight at the hotel in Yerevan. (B/-/-)

Day 8: Echoes of the Earth

Yerevan – Geghard – Garni – Symphony of Stones – Yerevan (~80 km)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Geghard. Geghard Monastery, a captivating and historically rich site, is within the dramatic cliffs of the Azat River Gorge in Armenia’s Kotayk Province. Often referred to as "Geghardavank" meaning "the monastery of the spear" this remarkable complex is renowned for its stunning rock-cut architecture and profound spiritual significance. Visit the Garni Temple, located in the village of Garni in Armenia, a remarkable ancient structure and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the country. Dating back to the 1st century AD, it was built during the reign of King Tiridates I, a notable ruler of the Artaxiad dynasty. Lunch in the local restaurant with “Lavash” baking presentation. The temple is dedicated to Mihr, the sun god, reflecting the influence of Hellenistic and Roman architectural styles on Armenian culture. Visit the "Symphony of Stones" referring to the striking geological formation found in the Basaltic Prisms of the Garni Gorge in Armenia. This natural wonder is characterized by its unique arrangement of basalt columns, which were formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago. The columns are remarkably well-organized, creating a pattern that resembles organ pipes or a symphony’s harmonic structure, hence the name.
Drive to Yerevan.
Overnight at the hotel in Yerevan. (B/L/-)

Day 9:Good Bye!

Departure

Transfer to the airport.Departure.