Luxury Armenia Tour - 8 days (AM-06)

Welcome to Armenia. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your centrally located hotel in Yerevan. Settle in and prepare for your adventure to begin at the aptly named Grand Hotel Yerevan. This well-appointed hotel is one of the finest in the country, a stellar five star property that’ falls under of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World umbrella. Dinner and overnight in Yerevan.

Yerevan boasts an array of intriguing architectural sights. You can enjoy the enchanting singing fountains at Republic Square, shop for handicrafts at the vibrant Vernissage market, and admire the ancient manuscripts housed in the Matenadaran. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial, a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the 1915 genocide and an essential part of the nation's history. Later our excursion takes us to Echmiadzin, Armenia’s fourth largest city, located about a half-hour drive west of Yerevan. This city is a treasure trove of UNESCO sites, with five monuments holding this prestigious designation. We will focus on the oldest cathedral in Armenia before moving on to Zvartnots. The Zvartnots Cathedral was abandoned in the 7th century and rediscovered after archaeological excavations in the early 20th century, with the reasons for its sudden decline remaining a mystery. Enjoy breakfast and dinner, with an overnight stay in Yerevan.

Driving distance: 55 km / 34 ml.

Today’s excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore two historic religious sites and the stunning natural beauty of Garni Gorge. We’ll begin at the Garni Temple, an extraordinary pagan temple distinguished by its unusual Greco-Roman architectural style, making it one of a kind in Armenia. After being reconstructed following earthquake damage, its grand colonnades create a breathtaking sight that every visitor should experience. Next, we’ll take a scenic detour to Garni Gorge, renowned for its striking basalt columns, often called the “Symphony of Stones.” The dramatic landscape provides a perfect backdrop for some memorable photographs. Following our time in the gorge, we’ll visit the nearby Geghard Monastery, founded by Gregory the Illuminator, the first leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This monastery is famous for its incredible acoustics, where a single voice can resonate as if sung by a choir. Don’t miss the unique peephole that allows you to glimpse the church from above, as well as the chance to visit its sacred spring. Before heading back to Yerevan, you’ll experience traditional lavash-baking, sampling fresh lavash with local cheese and herbs for an authentic taste of Armenia. After our day of exploration, we’ll return to Yerevan for dinner. Breakfast and dinner. Overnight in Yerevan.

Driving distance: 75 km / 47 ml.

Many of Armenia’s monasteries are situated in stunning locations, and today’s visits are no exception. We’ll start at Khor Virap, a site deeply connected to the story of Gregory the Illuminator, who was imprisoned here for a time. Perched on a small hill, the monastery provides magnificent views of the surrounding landscape, with Mount Ararat prominently visible across the border in Turkey. Next, we’ll head to Noravank, which is beautifully positioned along the steep Amaghu River gorge. The monastery's stone walls are richly decorated with carvings that illustrate Biblical stories, including depictions of Jesus with his apostles, Peter and Paul. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can ascend the stone staircase on the exterior of Noravank’s two-storey church for stunning panoramic views of the valley. We’ll also explore Birds' Cave in Areni, an important archaeological site known for its historical significance. To cap off the day, we’ll enjoy a tasting at a famous winery in Areni. Breakfast and dinner are included; overnight in Yerevan.

Driving distance: 245 km / 153 ml.

It’s time to move on from the capital so we’ll check out of the Grand Hotel Yerevan this morning, our sights set on Lake Sevan. On a hill overlooking the lake shore you’ll encounter Sevanavank. This remarkable monastery is one of Armenia’s prettiest, particularly on a sunny day when cloudless skies and the vivid blue of the lake set off the colour of its stonework to perfection. You’ll need to climb a long flight of steps to reach it, but with panoramic views out over the water and graveyard full of khachkars (carved stones) it’s well worth the effort. Next stop today is Dilijan. This is a popular spa town but it’s also home to a fascinating museum in which you’ll find a diverse array of objects covering topics like geology, history and art. The town is also known for its handicraft shops where you can browse for a suitable souvenir to bring home. Our base will be the delightful Best Western Plus Paradise Hotel Dilijan. This four star property is surrounded by forested slopes which you can see from the outdoor pool and terrace. Breakfast and dinner; overnight in Dilijan.

Driving distance: 98 km / 61 ml.

Today we’ll focus on a trio of monasteries. First up is a drive over to the Debed Canyon where we’ll tour Haghpat and Sanahin. These monasteries are a heritage double act thanks to their proximity to each other. Both date from the 10th century and have earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Haghpat in particular has a stunning location up on the hill, where its monks could benefit from solitude and privacy. After we’ve explored a little, we’ll move on to another monastery. Goshavank is thought to date from the 12th or 13th century and its cluster of churches is in good condition; all but one are connected to each other. Breakfast and dinner; overnight in Dilijan.

Driving distance: 238 km / 149 ml.

It’s around a two hour drive to get back to Yerevan, which means there’s plenty of time for you to see a bit more of the Armenian capital when we return. We recommend you visit the haunting but fascinating Genocide Memorial and Museum, where you can pay your respects beside the eternal flame. The old quarter of Kond, often overlooked by visitors, has a dilapidated charm; you’ll often see wool drying on the ground outside its historic houses. The Cascades, in contrast, teems with visitors who climb its staircases to take in the views over the city. However you choose to spend this additional time, we’re sure you’ll relish getting to know Yerevan a little better. Breakfast and dinner; overnight in Yerevan.

Driving distance: 96 km / 60 ml.

All that remains is for us to accompany you to the airport for your flight home and wish you a pleasant and safe journey. We trust you have enjoyed your tour and hope to see you in Armenia again very soon. (Breakfast)