Armenia – the historic Silk road country

Breakfast at the hotel.
Discover Yerevan with a guided city tour, including City center, Republic Square, Northern Avenue, the Mother Armenia Monument, Parliament, President’s Palace, Opera House, Swan Lake and Genocide Memorial, dedicated to the Victims of 1915 and the Genocide Museum.

Visit Matenadaran, home to one of the world’s largest collections of 17,000 ancient manuscripts.

Explore Cascade Complex, the hub of contemporary art in Yerevan with art pieces displayed throughout the whole area: the boulevard and up the stairs. From top of Cascade the marvelous panoramic view on the city and Mountain Ararat is open. Cascade is home to Cafesjian modern art museum. This place becomes even more charming in the evenings, when it is full of people, both locals and tourists from all over the world, enjoying the magic and the warmth of the capital. It is also a popular place for open air concerts at summer season.

Optional: Very interesting one hour tour around Armenian brandy factory offers tourists familiarization with the history of the plant, process of brandy preparation, showrooms and halls of storages. Visitors will also have degustation of 2 types of brandy in degustation hall. Brandy shop at
the factory territory will be available for purchasing of these famous Armenian brandy directly from the factory.

After breakfast, head to Garni Temple, the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia, devoted to the God of Sun – Myrth, in Garni, built in 77 AD by King Trdat (Arshakid Dynasty). Visit to the ruins of Royal Palace and Royal bath-house next to Garni temple.

On the way enjoy a photo stop at the Charentc Arc with a nice view on Ararat Mountain.

Optional: take 4×4 wheels tracks to visit the impressive Garni Canyon – magnificent and outstanding scene, which creates the image of falling crags. It obtained the name “Symphony of Stones” due to its view. The fantastic landscape of Garni canyon shakes the human imagination.

Optional: Small performance of Armenian national musical instrument ,,Duduk’’ (Tsiranapogh- means Tsiran- abricot, pogh- trumpet). After the local musician will describe the origin, nature, symbolism of Duduk and fully experience its rich and versatile music. One of the most famous performances of the duduk was featured in the movie “Gladiator”, where its soulful tones perfectly captured the film’s emotional depth and timeless appeal. Duduk and its music were inscribed in 2008 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (originally proclaimed in 2005).

Optional: Experience a traditional flat bread – lavash baking demonstration and enjoy a family-hosted lunch. Lavash, the preparation, meaning and appearance of traditional bread as an expression of culture in Armenia was inscribed in 2014 on the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Journey to the extraordinary Geghard Monastery, a stunning XII-XIII century temple partially carved into the rock. Named “Geghard” or “Holy Spear,” it honors the sacred relic believed to have pierced the body of Christ during the crucifixion, that was preserved here and now housed in the museum of Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, this architectural gem showcases Armenia’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

Optional: Enhance your visit with a mesmerizing concert of liturgical songs. Experience the monastery’s remarkable acoustics, where the crystal-clear harmonies resonate beautifully within the ancient stone walls.
Drive back to Yerevan.

Discover the vibrant heart of Armenian craftsmanship at Vernisaj, Yerevan’s famous open-air market, located in the city center. This lively bazaar offers a colorful array of traditional Armenian goods, including handwoven carpets, intricate woodwork, unique pottery, silver jewelry, and beautiful textiles. It’s a perfect spot to explore local art and handicrafts, where you can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

After breakfast, start from visit to one of the architectural wonders of Armenia – Zvartnots Temple (641- 661), that got its name from the word “Zwart”, meaning “joyful and beautiful”. The remaining ruins give an idea of the rare beauty of this temple. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2000).

Drive to Etchmiadzin town, the ancient capital of Armenia and the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Visit the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, founded in 301 A.D by St. Gregory the Illuminator and thus being one of the ancient churches in the Christian world. Later it was rebuilt and currently it stands as a complex including the Cathedral, Spiritual Academy, residency of the Catholicos of all Armenians, Synod of Armenian Church and a library. The museum of the Cathedral has collection of religious artifacts about Holy Mass, subjects made of gold, silver, precious stones, decorations, colossal silver boiler for making the myrrh and legendary Holy spear.

Continue journey to Ararat valley. Marvel the gorgeous biblical Mount Ararat shining with its two majestic white peaks.

Next, visit Khor Virap Church, an important Christian pilgrimage site located atop a small dungeon where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. St. Gregory’s release in 301 AD marked a pivotal moment in history, as Armenia became the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion. Explore the dungeon where he endured captivity, and experience one of Armenia’s holiest and most significant Christian landmarks.

The hills adjoining Khor Virap were once the site of the ancient capital of Armenia, Artashat, established around 180 B.C. by King Artashes I, the founder of the Artashesid dynasty. Notably, Artashat is one of the few ancient towns designed by the special project by the renowned Carthaginian general Hannibal, who sought refuge in Armenia after his defeat in a war against Rome.

Next, stop at the Areni Winery for a wine tasting experience in one of Armenia’s historic wine regions, known for the discovery of the world’s oldest winery.

After enjoy a scenic drive through stunning red rocks canyons to Noravank Monastery (XIII century), one of Armenia’s most treasured religious and cultural landmarks, known for its historical importance and architectural beauty. Noravank was also closely linked to the renowned medieval Gladzor University. Many visitors find the view so mesmerizing that they opt to walk the final stretch to the monastery, capturing the beauty of the canyon and its unique rock formations. Wander this historic monastery, surrounded by dramatic red rock cliffs. The interplay of sunlight on these rocks creates a vivid natural spectacle.

Continue through Selim Pass, visiting the historic Selim Caravanserai (XIV c), once served as a resting point for Silk Road travelers, towards Lake Sevan. The caravanserai is a reminder of Armenia’s significant role in facilitating trade between the East and West during ancient times.

Afterward, continue your scenic drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world, where you’ll visit Sevanavank Monastery (IX c) on the peninsula, offering sweeping views over the lake and the surrounding beauty.

Check in hotel.

Optional: After breakfast, enhance your visit to Lake Sevan with a relaxing and picturesque boat cruise in the morning on its crystal-clear waters. Marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. Feel the refreshing breeze as you glide across the serene lake, and enjoy the tranquility of this natural wonder. This unforgettable experience offers a perfect opportunity to take in the beauty of Lake Sevan from a unique perspective, creating memories to treasure.

Continue to the charming town of Dilijan, often referred to as “Armenian Switzerland” for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. During the drive one can enjoy the unbelievable change of the surrounding environment and landshaft from the mountainous lake to the green and rich forest mountains.

Stroll through Dilijan’s artisanal quarter, visiting local artisans crafting traditional souvenirs, made from wood, stone and ceramics.

Drive to Haghartsin Monastery complex (XI-XIII centuries), nestled in a secluded forest. Appearing unexpectedly, out of the dense forests, in front of the visitors, the Monastery creates a magical impression of a lost world. Haghartsin represents a magnificent piece of history, culture and architecture.

Continue your journey with a visit to Lori Berd, a historic fortress that dates back to the 10th century. Perched on a hilltop, this medieval stronghold offers breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon and lush green valley. Explore the ruins of the fortress and learn about its strategic importance in ancient times.

Head to Stepanavan, a charming town nestled in the beautiful mountains of the Lori region. Visit the nearby Dendropark, a unique botanical garden that features a wide variety of tree species from around the world, creating a peaceful oasis of nature. Wander through the park’s winding paths, surrounded by centuries-old trees, and take in the natural beauty of the area.

Continue your journey to Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, known for its rich history, unique architecture, and cultural traditions. Explore the historic Kumayri district, where you’ll find beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, and visit local museums to learn about the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. Gyumri’s lively atmosphere and welcoming locals make it a memorable stay on your tour.

Check in hotel.

Overnight in Gyumri

After breakfast visit, explore the historic Black Fortress, a 19th-century military stronghold built during the Russian Empire. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the fortress, constructed from volcanic black tuff, offers stunning panoramic views of Gyumri and the surrounding landscapes.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Amberd Fortress, an impressive 11th13th century citadel perched high on the slopes of Mount Aragats, at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. This fortress was once the residence of the noble Pahlavuni family and served as a strategic military site. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscapes are simply breathtaking.

Next, travel through the picturesque town of Ashtarak to the village of Oshakan, a site of great importance to Armenian heritage. During the springtime, as you travel along the route, you’ll have the chance to observe storks nesting gracefully on poles by the roadside. These majestic birds are a common sight in the region, often associated with good luck and the arrival of spring. Upon arrival in Oshakan, visit the Church of St. Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet. Pay respects at his gravestone and learn about his remarkable contribution to preserving Armenian culture and language. His invention of the alphabet in the early 5th century (405 AD) allowed the Armenian people to write their own language, ensuring the survival of their rich literary and religious traditions.

Next, head to the nearby Alphabet Park, an enchanting outdoor museum where the entire 39 letters Armenian alphabet are proudly displayed. The park features large, human-sized letters carved from tuff stone, scattered amidst a dramatic backdrop of volcanic rock formations. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the power of language and the deep-rooted history of Armenia.

Continue to Yerevan.