Highlights of Iran and Armenia - 15 days (CT-04)

Our driver will be waiting at the airport for your arrival. You’ll transfer to your hotel and there’ll be time for you to rest and settle in before our tour programme begins tomorrow. Overnight in Shiraz. (Dinner)

The name of Shiraz will be a familiar one to wine lovers; the grape originated here though these days, Shiraz wine comes mainly from France and Australia rather than Iran. The vineyards may be no more, but there are plenty of sights to explore. Your included city tour today takes you first to Nasir Al Mulk mosque; known as the Pink Mosque, it was completed in 1888. From there, you’ll visit Vakil Complex, comprising a mosque, traditional baths and a thriving bazaar. You’ll round off the day’s sightseeing with the imposing Karimkhan Citadel, the beautiful Eram Garden and Hafez Tomb. Overnight in Shiraz. (Breakfast, Dinner)

This morning you’ll set off for the fabled city of Isfahan. We’ll break our journey at Persepolis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in 518BC as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Constructed on an immense terrace, the breathtaking palace complex was one of the most impressive sights in Persia, and now even in its ruined state it is a wonderful place. From Persepolis, you’ll move on to Naghsh-e Rostam, an ancient necropolis famous for its reliefs cut into the rock. Our final stop will be at Pasargadae, another UNSECO World Heritage Site. Cyrus the Great built it as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire and it’s also where you’ll encounter his tomb. Overnight in Isfahan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Isfahan was abandoned as a capital in the 18th century when the seat of government shifted to Tehran. This meant that much of the historic buildings were left intact and today, the city is a delight for its Persian architecture. Your included sightseeing tour takes you to the Naghshe Jahan Square Complex, where you’ll find the Imam Mosque, Ali Qapu and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. There’ll be time to rummage in the Qeysarieh Bazaar, renowned for carpets and kilims. Round off the day with visits to Chelel Sotun Palace and the Si-o Se pol and Khajou bridges before returning to the hotel to relax. Overnight in Isfahan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today we set off for Kashan, stopping off en route at Abyaneh. This place is nicknamed the “red village” on account of its rich red soil and homes of a similar colour. Its narrow alleyways straggle up the lower flanks of Karkas Mountain. From a distance, it’s a pictureseque sight and close up you’ll enjoy learning about its clay architecture and living traditions. In Kashan, you’ll pay a visit to the 19th century Boroujerdi House. It was built by an architect for his bride, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, and is now a museum. Finally, you’ll stop at the 16th century Fin Garden, the oldest surviving garden in Iran. It’s notorious as the site of the murder of Amir Kabir, the Qajarid chancellor, taken out by an assassin sent by King Nasereddin Shah in 1852. Overnight in Kashan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Our tour continues today to the Iranian capital Tehran. Occupying a spectacular location on the lower slopes of the Alborz Mountains, this backdrop of snow-capped peaks frames many a panoramic view in the city. You’ll enjoy a visit to Niaravan Palace, a historical complex which is also home to the Sahebqraniyeh Palace, and the Tajrish Bazaar and Square, in this, Iran’s most liberal and secular city. Overnight in Tehran. (Breakfast, Dinner)

You’ll tackle more of Tehran’s major sights today, beginning with Golestan Palace. This walled palace complex dates from the Qajar period and forms one of the oldest groups of buildings in the country. It was once, in the 18th century, the seat of government, but now it’s more famous as the source of inspiration for countless Iranian artists and architects who come to marvel at its lavish interiors and stylish exteriors. Also on the itinerary today is the archaeological section of the National Museum and also a visit to the Crown Jewels Museum. You’ll round off the day with a flight to Tabriz, in the north west of the country. Overnight in Tabriz. (Breakfast, Dinner)

This morning your sightseeing programme includes some of the highlights of Tabriz, located on the ancient Silk Road. You’ll pay a visit to the Azerbaijan Museum to learn a little of the city’s archaeology and history before making your way to the Blue Mosque. Dating from the 15th century but largely rebuilt, the turquoise mosaics on its entrance archway are original. El-Goli Park completes the itinerary in Tabriz, and then we transfer to Jolfa. We’ll squeeze in a trip to the Armenian St Stephen’s monastery, dramatically sited in a deep canyon, before checking into our hotel. Overnight in Jolfa. (Breakfast, Dinner)

This morning we set off by car for the Armenian border, crossing at Nordooz. Your driver will assist with any customs and immigration formalities and you’ll cross over to Meghry on the Armenian side of the border to meet your new guide. Setting out for Goris, you’ll make your way along a beautiful valley alongside a stream to the cave village of Khndzoresk. Explore the caves and rock formations before continuing on to Goris where you’ll spend the night. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Armenia is the world’s oldest Christian nation and today you’ll witness some of its most spectacular monasteries. Begin with Tatev, reached by one of the world’s longest cable cars, the Wings of Tatev, affording breathtaking views stretching for miles across the valley. Afterwards, it’s on to the 12th century Noravank Monastery. Accessed along a steep-sided canyon, it’s worth climbing the vertiginous steps across the front of the chapel for the incredible views back along the valley as seen from its upper storey. A stop has been arranged at Areni winery; the wines and fruit-based spirits make excellent souvenirs. Our final stop is at Khor Virap monastery, from which you can see Mount Ararat across the border in Turkey. You’ll spend the night in Yerevan, the Armenian capital. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today’s included sightseeing comprises a city tour of the Armenian capital. Imposing Republic Square is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. You’ll also pay a visit to the manuscript museum known as the Matenadaran. Just outside the city centre you’ll find the poignant and moving Genocide Museum, which graphically explains the events of more than a century ago. Another key part of the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex is the obelisk and eternal flame, its simplicity creating a serene environment for contemplation. Later, you’ll visit the Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, the spiritual and administrative heart of the Armenian Church. The tour will continue to the ruins of the glorious 7th century Zvartnots Cathedral before returning to the city for another overnight stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)

You’ll begin your journey by heading out of Yerevan to the ancient Pagan Temple of Garni, a remarkable structure dating back to the 1st century that contrasts sharply with Armenia's many Christian monasteries. After exploring Garni, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking Garni Gorge, renowned for its stunning geological formations known as the "Symphony of Stones," where towering basalt columns create a unique landscape. Next, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, nestled within the cliffs of the Azat River gorge, showcasing its extraordinary architecture. On the return trip to Yerevan, we’ll make a stop at a local home to learn how to make traditional Armenian lavash, encouraging hands-on participation in the process. You’ll then head back to Yerevan for the evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today we’ll leave Yerevan bound for Lake Sevan, the pearl of Armenia. On a hilltop overlooking the lake you’ll encounter the delightful Sevanavank Monastery, occupying one of the most captivating locations of all Armenia’s monasteries. The church is impressive, its graveyard littered with engraved standing stones known as khachkars. Moving on, you’ll travel to Dilijan, a resort and spa town. Last of all, you’ll visit Haghpat Monastery, one of the largest religious and cultural centres of mediaeval Armenia. The holes you’ll see in its floors were used to store wine. Tonight your accommodation is in Haghpat. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Your itinerary makes a loop back towards Yerevan today. From Haghpat, you’ll head to Sanahin Monastery. Twinned with Haghpat, Sanahin’s name translates as “older than that one”. The cavernous interior features plenty of tombstones on the floor. Step on them: it’s commonly held that if you do, you’re freeing the dead of their sins. Look to see the curtain across the main body of the church, which marks that it still functions as a place of worship. Your tour will conclude with a visit to Goshavank monastery before returning to spend the final night in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Today marks the end of your tour. We trust that Iran and Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and long history have made for an interesting and memorable visit. (Breakfast)