Best of Armenia - 8 days (AM-02)

We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your centrally located hotel in the Armenian capital Yerevan. Overnight in Yerevan. (Dinner)

Yerevan, the captivating capital of Armenia, offers a unique blend of Soviet-era architecture, rich history, and a vibrant café culture. Your city tour begins with visits to the iconic Singing Fountains of Republic Square, the bustling Vernissage market brimming with antiques and crafts, and the renowned Matenadaran, home to ancient manuscripts that tell the story of Armenia's past. You'll also head up the Yerevan Cascade for sweeping views of the city, and on a clear day, you'll spot the stunning silhouette of Mount Ararat. In the afternoon, you'll visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial, a poignant reminder of the tragic events of 1915 and an important part of the country’s history. The tour continues to Echmiadzin, the site of Armenia’s oldest cathedral and its spiritual center, followed by a visit to the magnificent 7th-century ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive architecture. The day wraps up with a return to Yerevan, where a delicious dinner in the city awaits. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 55 km / 34 ml.

Not far from Yerevan, you’ll encounter two remarkable sites: the Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery. The Temple of Garni, dating back to the 1st century, is an impressive Ionic pagan temple built in the Greco-Roman style. Although it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century, it was beautifully reconstructed three centuries later. Before visiting the monastery, we’ll take a scenic walk through the breathtaking Garni Gorge, renowned for its dramatic basalt columns, often referred to as the “Symphony of Stones.” Following this, we’ll head to Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site founded by Gregory the Illuminator. Here, you can peer through a hole in the floor to see the church below and visit the sacred spring that holds significant meaning for the Armenian people. Before returning to Yerevan, you’ll also enjoy a traditional lavash-baking experience, sampling fresh lavash with local cheese and herbs for a true taste of Armenia. After exploring these stunning sites, we’ll return to Yerevan, giving you the opportunity to further immerse yourself in the city. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 75 km / 47 ml.

In the morning, the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat rises prominently on the horizon, enhancing the allure of Khor Virap Monastery. Noravank Monastery boasts an even more stunning setting; as you navigate through a narrow canyon, this remarkable religious complex reveals itself, celebrated for its exquisite carvings of Jesus alongside Peter and Paul. Climbing the steep steps that ascend the outside of the church provides breathtaking views from the first floor for those adventurous enough to tackle the ascent. Our day will conclude with a visit to Areni, where we’ll explore the fascinating Birds' Cave, notable for its archaeological finds, followed by a delightful local wine tasting at a renowned winery. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 245 km / 153 ml.

We’ll take an excursion out of Yerevan to visit Armenia’s most beautiful lake. Sevanavank Monastery is located on a hilltop and from it there are breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. In the churchyard, take a look at the intricately carved stones, known as khatchkhars. From Sevan, we’ll drive to the nearby spa town of Dilijan, where we can visit the Geological Museum and Art Gallery which displays archaeological pieces and works of art. There are also plenty of craft workshops in town where you can pick up a souvenir or two. Overnight in Dilijan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 98 km / 61 ml.

The twin monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin face off across the Debed Canyon. Haghpat is a mediaeval complex largely completed in the 9th century. Grey stone is topped with terracotta roof tiles, but it’s the floor that’s most interesting - the holes in it were originally designed to keep wine cool. Sanahin is Haghpat’s twin; its name means “older than that one”. The floor of the cavernous interior is covered with tombstones, though it’s considered good luck to step on them as it’s thought doing so will free the dead of their sins. From there, we’ll head to the village of Lermontovo, named after the Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov, who’s often called "the poet of the Caucasus". Our final stop is at the 12th century monastery of Goshavank before we return to Dilijan for dinner. Overnight in Dilijan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 238 km / 149 ml.

Today, we’ll retrace our steps and return to Yerevan. The drive takes about two hours from Dilijan so there’ll be plenty of time today to fit in some independent sightseeing. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 96 km / 60 ml.

After what’s been a fascinating and enjoyable week, it’s time to return to the airport in good time to catch your flight home. (Breakfast)