Essence of Armenia

There will be private transfer directly to your hotel from the airport upon arrival at Zvartnots Airport. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and unwind after your journey, take advantage of your hotel's facilities and wander around the local area.

Armenian Flag

Yerevan

Yerevan

Yerevan Sunset

highlights

The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel

overnight

Our journey begins in Yerevan, the lively capital of Armenia, often called the "pink city" because of the unique hue of its stone buildings. Experience the charm of Yerevan with today's City Tour, guided by an expert who will share insights into Yerevan's rich history and culture. From the iconic Republic Square to the Cascade complex and its charming cafes, this tour offers a glimpse into the city's allure. Enjoy the blend of history, architecture, and modern city life in this dynamic and welcoming place. Next, we visit the Lusik Aguletsi Museum, honoring the esteemed Armenian cultural figure who dedicated her life to preserving over a thousand elements of Armenian heritage. Lusik Aguletsi was a painter, writer, and ethnology enthusiast, and her contributions to Armenian culture are significant. After the museum, we will participate in a hands-on master class at the Lusik Aguletsi Cultural Centre, where we'll learn to prepare the traditional Armenian sweet, known as "gata". Next, we'll explore the lively Gum fruit market, a hub of fresh produce and local flavors. We’ll conclude our day with a delightful dinner at the traditional restaurant "Tavern Yerevan," where you can enjoy folk music and savor authentic Armenian cuisine.

Government House

Republic Square

Yerevan Cathedral

Lusik Aguleci Museum

highlights

The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel

overnight

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to visit the Yezidi temple, Ziarat of Aknalich, the largest Yezidi temple in the world. The Yezidis, the largest minority in Armenia, have been engaged in cattle breeding on the Caucasian plateau for centuries and have preserved their religion for nearly three millennia. Unlike many faiths, the Yezidi community does not have a Holy Book; instead, their beliefs are based on the teachings of their priests, who gain the right to lead through extensive knowledge. The journey continues to Amberd Fortress, a medieval structure dating back to the 7th–13th centuries. Situated on the southern slope of Mount Aragats, which rises to 4,091 meters above sea level, Amberd is one of the best-preserved fortresses from Medieval Armenia. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to meet local Yezidis, gaining insight into their culture and traditions. Afterward, onward to Gyumri, where we'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, "Cherkezi Dzor," renowned for serving some of the best fish dishes around.

Aknalich Yezidi Temple

Amberd

Yezidi Camp

Gyumri

highlights

Hotel Plaza Viktoria

overnight

After breakfast you will head out to explore the city of Gyumri, which has undergone several name changes throughout its history. Originally known as Kumayri, it became Alexandropol, then Leninakan during the Soviet era, and finally Gyumri. As Armenia's second-largest city, it sits on the bank of the Akhurian River, about 120 km from Yerevan, and serves as the capital of Shirak Province. During the tour, we will visit the Dzitoghtsyan House-Museum, which offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and everyday life of Gyumri in the 19th century. Here, you’ll learn about the local customs and traditions. Next, we’ll head to Fioletovo, a village inhabited by Molokan Russians. You’ll be welcomed by a local family in their home, where you can explore the garden and participate in a traditional tea-drinking ceremony around the samovar, accompanied by freshly baked pastries or cookies. Our journey continues to Parz Lake in Dilijan National Park, a picturesque spot where you can enjoy a boat ride if you wish. Afterward, we’ll drive to Dilijan. Strolling along Sharamberyan Street, you’ll discover various museums, souvenir markets, and small shops. We’ll also see traditional wooden houses with tiled roofs and intricately carved balconies, which are characteristic of the region. We’ll conclude the day with dinner at a local family’s home in Dilijan, where you can savor the delicious creations prepared by the hostess.

Gyumri

Dzitoghtsyan House Museum

Fioletovo

Parz Lake

highlights

Ararat Resort

overnight

We will drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest lakes in the world, renowned for its sweet, strikingly blue waters. Here, you can take in the stunning scenery of this beautiful lake before visiting Sevanavank Monastery, located on the Sevan Peninsula. The site features two monasteries; while one is in ruins, the other remains intact. Both were built in the Middle Ages, around the 10th century. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a short boat trip on Lake Sevan. Next, we’ll visit Noratus, a village on the western shore of the lake in Gegharkunik Province. Noratus is particularly known for its historic cemetery, which houses one of the largest collections of Armenian khachkars (cross-stones) in the country. Here, you can participate in a master class on khachkar carving. Our journey continues to Mikaelyan Family Farm, where the Mikaelyan family has been producing unique Armenian cheeses for several years. This family-run operation specializes in wine-cheese, cognac-cheese, “horac,” and parmesan-style cheeses. We will then pass through the Selim Caravanserai, a historic stop along the Great Silk Road that served as a center for trade and rest. This site reflects the enduring legacy of world history. Finally, we’ll drive to Yeghegis, where dinner will be served at the hotel.

Dilijan

Lake Sevan

Selim Caravanserai

Mikaelyan Family Farm

highlights

Hotel Arevi

overnight

Today's tour begin at Noravank, a 12th-century monastery nestled among stunning sheer cliffs along the banks of a winding gorge. This site is notable for housing a unique sculpture of Father God. Next, we’ll continue to Areni Village and Areni Cave. The cave consists of three rooms, many of which remain unexplored. Excavations have uncovered metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, pottery, clothing, grapes, and dried plums dating back to 4200-3500 BC. Remarkably, the oldest leather shoe in the world, over 5,500 years old, was discovered here, along with what is considered the oldest known wine cellar, dating back over 6,000 years. After our cave visit, we will head to Momik Winery for a tasting of local wines, followed by lunch amidst the vineyards. Finally, we’ll drive back to Yerevan to your hotel.

Noravank Monastery

Mount Ararat - Khor Virap

Winery Visit

Yerevan Sunset

highlights

The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel

overnight

Today begins with a trip to Garni, where you can explore the Pagan Temple built in the 1st century AD. This is the only temple from the Pagan era that has survived in Armenia, dedicated to the god Mihr, associated with cleanliness. The temple was destroyed by an earthquake in 1679 but was restored in 1975. Next, we’ll drive to the Symphony of Stones, located near Garni. This stunning basalt rock formation has been shaped by nature over centuries. The rocks in the gorge have taken on various columnar shapes, resembling a natural orchestra of standing stones, which gives the area its name. Afterward, we’ll visit a local house to participate in the preparation of lavash, the traditional Armenian flatbread. Lavash is thin and usually made in large sheets, traditionally cooked in a ground oven known as a “tonir.” In 2015, lavash was inscribed on UNESCO's intangible heritage list. We’ll enjoy a simple yet delightful lunch of lavash and cheese. Following lunch, we will return to Yerevan and visit Vernissage, a lively open-air market in the heart of the city. Here, local artists, craftsmen, and vendors showcase a diverse range of handmade crafts, traditional Armenian art, souvenirs, jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and other unique items.

Garni Temple

Symphony of Stones

Geghard Monastery

Yerevan market

highlights

The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel

overnight

There will be private transfer directly to the airport from your hotel. Your guide will confirm pick up time. We trust you have enjoyed the beauty of Armenia. Enjoy your flight!

Armenia stone cross

Ejmiatsin Cathedral

Lake Sevan

Happy Travels!

highlights

The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel

overnight