Authentic Armenia - Historical and Natural Treasures in 5 Days
Discover authentic Armenia beyond conventional routes. From the Ararat Valley to Lake Sevan, explore Khor Virap with views of Mount Ararat, Areni Cave with the world's oldest winery, Noravank among red cliffs, Garni, Geghard, Dilijan and the monasteries of Goshavank and Haghartsin.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival in Yerevan
Transfer from Zvartnots airport to hotel in Yerevan. Reception with guide assistance throughout the journey.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
13 km | 25 min by car
DAY 2: Yerevan - Garni - Geghard
City tour of Yerevan, one of the world's oldest cities where past and present coexist in harmony. Walk through elegant avenues admiring the fusion of Soviet and neoclassical architecture: Republic Square and the Cascade art complex with panoramic views. In the afternoon, visit to Garni Temple, a unique archaeological gem in the South Caucasus, a 1st-century Hellenistic monument with the impressive basalt formations "Symphony of Stones". Ending at Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site partially carved into living rock with stunning acoustics.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
62 km | 1h 33 min by car
DAY 3: Khor Virap - Areni Cave - Noravank
Visit to Khor Virap Monastery, a fundamental pilgrimage site connected to St. Gregory the Illuminator, with the most iconic view of Mount Ararat. Exploration of Areni Cave, a world-renowned archaeological site where the oldest known winery and the world's oldest shoe were discovered. Ending at Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century two-story architectural gem nestled among imposing red rock cliffs.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
239 km | 4h 23 min by car
DAY 4: Lake Sevan - Dilijan - Goshavank - Haghartsin
Visit to Lake Sevan, the "Pearl of Armenia", and ascent to Sevanavank Monastery with unparalleled panoramas of the turquoise waters. Continue to Dilijan, the "Switzerland of Armenia" with green mountains and dense forests. Visit to Goshavank Monastery, an ancient cultural center with extraordinary carved stones. Culmination at Haghartsin Monastery, a 10th-century complex hidden in a forested valley where ancient spirituality merges with lush nature.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
185 km | 3h 05 min by car
DAY 5: Departure
Transfer from hotel to Zvartnots airport according to flight time.
13 km | 25 min by car
Discover "Authentic Armenia" in a complete week of exploration that will take you beyond conventional tourist routes. This 5-day itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the country, spanning from the lowlands of the Ararat Valley to the snowy peaks of Mount Aragats, and from pagan antiquity to medieval Christian architecture.
Geographic and Spiritual Contrasts
We begin in the capital, Yerevan, but soon venture into the deep south. We will visit the iconic Khor Virap monastery, the closest point to biblical Mount Ararat, where the story of St. Gregory the Illuminator comes alive. We continue to the Vayots Dzor region, famous for its millennial wines, to explore Areni Cave (where the world's oldest shoe was found) and the spectacular Noravank monastery, a two-story architectural gem surrounded by red cliffs.
Mountains and Fortresses
The journey also takes us to the heights. The visit to the green north is essential: Lake Sevan and the forests of Dilijan, visiting the monastic complexes of Goshavank and Haghartsin.
Of course, essentials like Garni, Geghard and Echmiadzin are included, completing a perfect circle. This trip allows for a leisurely pace, ideal for enjoying rich Armenian cuisine, its wines and the legendary hospitality of its people. It is the ultimate experience to capture the spirit of Armenia.
Included
- Accommodation: 4 nights in selected hotels
- Meals: Bed and breakfast
- Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
- Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver)
- Water: 1 bottle per person/day
- Taxes: Local taxes
- Entrance fees: Monuments according to itinerary
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners (unless indicated)
- Alcoholic beverages and tips
- Personal expenses