DAY 1: Yerevan
We start our trip in Yerevan, the capital and largest city of Armenia. Yerevan is a vibrant and modern city with a pink hue, due to the volcanic tuff stone used for most of its buildings. We will visit the Republic Square, the heart of the city, and see the Government House, the History Museum of Armenia, and the National Gallery. We will also explore the Cascade, a massive staircase with fountains, sculptures, and a museum of contemporary art. You can also check out the Matenadaran, a museum and library of ancient manuscripts and books. For dinner, we enjoy some of the delicious Armenian cuisine, such as lavash (flatbread), khorovats (barbecue), and gata (sweet pastry). We stay overnight in Yerevan and will stay in the same hotel all four nights.
DAY 2: Garni and Geghard
After breakfast, we take a day trip to Garni and Geghard, two of the most popular attractions in Armenia. Garni is a village that hosts the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia, dating back to the 1st century AD. The temple is dedicated to the sun god Mihr, and has a classical Greek style. You can also see the Garni Gorge, a natural wonder with basalt columns forming a symmetrical pattern. Geghard is a medieval monastery carved into the rock, named after the spear that pierced Christ’s side at the crucifixion. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has a stunning acoustics and atmosphere. You can also see the nearby caves and chapels, and enjoy the views of the Azat River Valley.
DAY 3: Lake Sevan and Dilijan
On the third day, we visit Lake Sevan and Dilijan, two of the most beautiful and scenic places in Armenia. Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and the Caucasus region, and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. The lake is famous for its turquoise water, sandy beaches, and historical monuments. We will visit the Sevanavank Monastery, a 9th-century complex on a peninsula, and the Hayravank Monastery, a 10th-century structure on the shore. You can also enjoy some of the local fish, such as ishkhan (trout) and sig (whitefish). Dilijan is a spa town and a national park, known as the “Little Switzerland of Armenia”. The town is surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and rivers, and has a charming architecture and culture. You can visit the Haghartsin Monastery, a 13th-century complex in the woods, and the Goshavank Monastery, a 12th-century structure with a khachkar (cross-stone) museum.
DAY 4: Khor Virap and Noravank
On the last day, we head to Khor Virap and Noravank, two of the most impressive and significant monasteries in Armenia. Khor Virap is a 17th-century monastery located at the foot of Mount Ararat, the national symbol of Armenia and the legendary resting place of Noah’s Ark. The monastery is also the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the patron saint of Armenia, was imprisoned for 13 years before converting the king and the nation to Christianity in 301 AD. You can see the dungeon where he was held, and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountain and the plain. Noravank is a 13th-century monastery located in a narrow gorge, surrounded by red cliffs. The monastery is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture, with intricate carvings and decorations. You can see the Surb Astvatsatsin Church, a two-story structure with a unique staircase, and the Surb Karapet Church, a domed hall with a large khachkar.
DAY 5: Yerevan
Depending on your flight time you will have the possibility to explore more of Yerevan, try the famous Ararat Brandy and do some shopping in the Gumi Market.
PRICE : ask for price
NOTES: We only arrange this trip from May to October as the winter months may be really cold and roads may be closed. Can be combined with our trip to Georgia.