An exciting journey in Armenia

Day 1 Transfer from "Zvartnots Airport" to Yerevan

1. 1

   Yerevan

   Free day in Yerevan.

Day 2 Yerevan - Charents Arch - Garni temple - Symphony of stones - Geghard Monastery

1. 1

   Charent's Arch

   20 min

   The Arch of Charents is the place where you can admire a the most beautiful view of Ararat. The monument is dedicated to the famous poet Yeghishe Charents.

2. 2

   Garni Temple

   40 min Admission ticket included

   Garni temple which towers over a triangular cape, is the unique survived example of heathen culture in Armenia. It is a blend of Greco-Roman and Armenian styles. King Trdat the First ordered building the temple in the first century A.D. and dedicated it to the God of Sun. After adopting Christianity in 301 the pagan temple lost its significance and the fortress of Garni became the summer residence of the kings. Nowadays the ruins of the royal palace and the bathroom with a stunning mosaic work can be found near the temple. After such a busy day, we will have an exciting lavash master class, where you will bake and taste delicious Armenian bread.

3. 3

   The Monastery of Geghard

   1 hour 30 min

   Geghard monastery is the unsurpassable masterpiece of the 13th century Armenian architecture. Some of the churches of the complex are masterfully hewn in a huge rock. From the outset the complex was called Ayrivank (cave monastery), later it was renamed Geghard (lance), as the lance used by the roman soldier to sting Jesus Christ's side, was kept in this monastery for many centuries. Due to its construction Geghardavank serves the best place for singing spiritual songs. The complex is rich in subtle sculptural embellishments and many striking khachkars (cross-stones).

Day 3 Yerevan - Sevanavank Monastery - Sevan Lake - Haghartsin - Goshavank - Old Dilijan

1. 1

   Monastery Sevanavank

   1 hour 30 min

   The fascination and the pearl of mountainous Armenia is Sevan Lake, which is one of the world's greatest high altitude fresh-water lakes. It is about 1900 m above sea level. The lake is of volcanic origin and is surrounded with mountains of 3000 m and higer. The beautiful landscape and the crystal water serve nice preconditions for excellent rest.The lake is also famous for its peninsula and medieval church complex built in 874.Near it is Sevanavank monastery whish was built on the peninsula in 874 by the order of king Ashot Bagratuni's daughter princess Mariam. The silhouette of the churches against the background of the turquoise lake and blue sky casts unexplainable impression on the visitors.

2. 2

   Haghartsin Monastery

   1 hour

   Haghartsin monastery situated in the woodlands of Tavush region represents an indescribable example of blend of nature with architecture. It was founded in the 10-11th centuries, though new buildings were added in the 12-13th centuries. Now it consists of St. Grigor, St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), St. Stepanos churches and some other buildings.The refectory due to its skillful architectural composition is of great interest. The huge oak tree, which is almost at the age of the monastery, completes the whole scene.

3. 3

   Goshavank Monastery

   40 min

   Goshavank was founded by the famous medieval scientist, fabulist Mkhitar Gosh. The complex consists of several religious and secular buildings. The unrivalled khachkar put in front of the one-naved basilica was created by the skillful master Poghos in 1291.Goshavank used to be one of the most famous religious and cultural centers in medieval Armenia.

4. 4

   Dilijan

   30 min

   Dilijan entices people with its unforgettable beauty and mild climate. The city stretches on the banks of Aghstev river, surrounded with mountains and forests. Dilijan has the fame of a health resort. The warm sun, fresh air and natural spas have great healing influence on people. Dilijan is also rich in interesting architectural monuments.

Day 4 Yerevan city tour - Ararat Cognac Factory

1. 1

   Yerevan

   4 hours

   Yerevan, is the oldest city of Armenia. It's even elder than eternal City of Rome for 29 years. The heart of the city is the Republic Square with singing fountains, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful squares in the whole world. Walking by Northern Avenue will get to the Opera and Ballet building, which is unique in its kind. Cascade, the place where everything new and old is gathered. Monuments, museums, cafes and restaurants are full of people whole day long. But the best thing about Cascade is the amazing view of the city. "Monument" or Victory Park, is a favorite place for both adults and children. There is a monument of Mother Armenia, a proud woman who lovingly watches over the residents of the city.

2. 2

   ARARAT Museum

   40 min Admission ticket included

   Get to know the art of creating the legendary ARARAT brandies by visiting the museum in Yerevan. During the tour, you will get acquainted with the history of creation of the brandies that made Armenia famous, and see the main stages of production. The tour ends in a tasting room, where you can taste several iconic brandies which are ARARAT "Three Stars" brandies and ten-year-old ARARAT "Akhtamar".

3. 3

   Matenadaran - The Museum of Ancient Manuscripts

   1 min Admission ticket included

   Matenadaran is a major center of Armenian written culture, which is not only a repository of ancient manuscripts, but also a center for research of manuscripts and documents. The manuscripts presented in the Matenadaran give a general idea of all fields of Armenian medieval science, the development of writing and art over the centuries. They represent the Armenian culture, beginning with the invention of Mashtots Armenian letters (405) to the XVIII century. Old Armenian translations, works concerning all spheres of science and culture of the Middle Ages, as well as samples of Armenian miniatures of the Middle Ages are presented.

4. 4

   Tsitsernakaberd

   1 hour Admission ticket included

   Yerevan’s Tsitsernakaberd Memorial complex is dedicated to the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished in the first genocide of the 20th century at the hands of the Turkish government. Completed in 1967, the Genocide Monument has since become an integral part of Yerevan’s architecture and a pilgrimage site. Set on a hill and dominating the landscape, it is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Its austere outlines convey the spirit of the nation that survived a ruthless campaign of extermination.

Day 5 Yerevan - Khor Virap - Noravank - Birds' Cave - Yerevan

1. 1

   Khor Virap

   1 hour

   Khor Virap is the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia, as it is directly connected with the adoption of Christianity. As a state religion Christianity in Armenia was adopted in 301 due to endeavors of Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who before converting king Trdat the 3rd to Christianity, was imprisoned in the dungeon over which a church of Khor Virap monastery was built in the 17th century. From the monastery one can admire the stunning view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.

2. 2

   Noravank Monastery

   1 hour

   Passing a narrow road surrounded by rocks of hundred caves one discovers a scene of harmony of architecture with nature. The monastery enshrined with fine architectural solutions and luxurious embellishments is one of the brightest examples of Armenian architecture of the 13th century. Noravank consists of St. Karapet, St. Grigory the Illuminator churches and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) two-storey church, which is notable for its ideal constructive and sculptural work.

3. 3

   Areni Wine Factory

   30 min Admission ticket included

   he village of Areni is in Vayots Dzor region. This sunny village is famous for its best wine assortments. Due to its specific flavor and delicate taste "Areni" wine has its respectful place among the best Armenian wines. The visit to the wine factory of the village will serve a good testimony to the above mentioned. The St. Astvatsatsin church built by skillful architect and sculpture Momik is in Areni village, too.

4. 4

   T'rchuneri (Bird) Cave

   40 min Admission ticket included

   The cave is situated 12 km from Yeghegnadzor, on the left bank of river Areni. The cave is consisted of 3 halls, has approximately 500 m² area, the large part of which still hasn’t been explored. As a result of studies, metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, dishes, clothing, dried grapes and plums, dated to 4200-3500 BC, were found in the cave. The oldest leather shoe of the world was found right here. It is more than 5500 years old. Also, in the same area, there were found world’s oldest women’s skirt (3900 BC), as well as the first winery in the whole world. Nowadays the mentioned winery is considered to be the ancient one and it is referred to 4th millennium BC. No one has lived inside the cave, at the meantime, wine consumption was of ritual meaning for them.

Day 6 Transfer to Zvartnoths International Airport

1. 1

   Yerevan

   2 hours

   Free morning in yerevan. You can spend your time at shopping centres to buy some dry fruits, Armenian souveriers and other national items.