Royal Journey through Armenia & Georgia

Meeting at Zvartnots International airport in Yerevan.  Transfer to the hotel, check in.

Overnight in Yerevan.

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 and  Swan Lake.

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.

A visit to Tsitsernakaberd—the Armenian Genocide Memorial—and the adjacent museum honors the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished during the first genocide of the 20th century, carried out in Western Armenia and across the Ottoman Empire.

A visit to one of the biggest and oldest mosques in Caucasus “Blue mosque”, which is situated in the heart of Yerevan city.

End your day at Republic Square—one of the most beautiful squares in the world—enjoying the mesmerizing performance of the singing fountains.

Optional: Take a fascinating one-hour tour of the Armenian Brandy Factory, where you’ll learn about the plant’s rich history, the brandy-making process, and explore its showrooms and aging cellars. The tour ends with a tasting of two signature brandies in the dedicated tasting hall. A factory shop is also available, offering the chance to purchase authentic Armenian brandy straight from the source.

O/n in Yerevan. (B/–/-)

After breakfast, 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.

Visits to churches St Hripsime and St Gayane, both included in UNESCO World Heritage List.

One of the most significant landmarks of the Armenian Apostolic Church, St. Hripsime Church was founded in 618 by Catholicos Komitas.  It is devoted to St Hripsime, who escape from persecution by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and sought refuge in Armenia. Despite being a beautiful and devoted follower of Christ, she bravely refused to marry the pagan King Tirdat III when commanded. Choosing martyrdom over compromise, she was killed, and a small chapel was erected over the site of her death.

Built in 630 AD by Catholicos Ezra I, St Gayane church dedicated to Saint Gayane, a Christian martyr who played a crucial role in Armenia’s conversion to Christianity. Saint Gayane’s story of faith and sacrifice adds profound historical and spiritual value to the site. For centuries, it has been a place of pilgrimage for Armenians and Christian visitors from around the world.

Continue one of the architectural wonders of Armenia – Zvartnots Temple (641-661), that got its name from the word “Zwart”.  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 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.

O/n in Yerevan. (B/-/-)

Breakfast in the hotel.

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

Visit to the ruins of Royal Palace and Royal bath-house next to Garni temple.

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).

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 “St 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.

O/n in Yerevan. (B/-/-)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive 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. Recent archaeological excavations in the Vayots Dzor region uncovered a 6,100-year-old winery and five wine cellars in a cave near Areni. Researchers found grape presses, fermentation vessels, storage containers, drinking cups, and remains of grapevines and seeds—evidence that this is the oldest known winery in the world. Scholars believe wine was used in funerary rituals and as offerings, as indicated by jars and drinking cups found in graves. According to both Armenian and American archaeologists, this discovery represents the world’s most complete and ancient wine production site to date.

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 to Jermuk, a renowned mineral spa resort. Visit the Mineral Spring Gallery to taste the healing waters straight from the source. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a mineral bath using natural Jermuk water, known for its therapeutic properties.

O/n in Jermuk. (B/-/-)

Breakfast at the hotel.

Start your day with a ride on the “Wings of Tatev” Ropeway—the world’s longest non-stop double track reversible aerial tramway, included in Guiness record book.  Spanning 5.7 km (3.5 miles), this extraordinary ride takes you soaring over the breathtaking Vorotan Gorge to Tatev Monastery, a historical site and former intellectual center from the IX-XIII centuries. Nestled in a dramatic gorge, Tatev was once a vital center of Armenian culture and learning,  where philosophers, musicians, painters, calligraphers and monks lived. Tatev used to be a religious and political center of Syunik princedom.

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. On a clear and sunny day, the water of Sevan Lake is often of a deep turquoise colour. Total surface of the lake is 940 km². Climb on peninsula to visit Sevanavank Monastery (IX c), from where a fascinating and breathtaking view opens over the lake and the surrounding beauty.

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. Check in DiliDream villa in Dilijan with fascinating view on surrounding forest mountains.

O/n in Dilijan

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

Drive to Haghartsin Monastery complex (XII-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.

Overnight in Dilijan.

Continue a captivating journey to northern Armenia, a magical region of lush forests, towering mountains, and deep canyons. This region is famous for some of the most stunning examples of medieval Armenian architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat.

Sanahin Monastery (IX – XII centuries) is one of Armenia’s most revered monastic complexes. Located near the town of Alaverdi in the picturesque Lori region, Sanahin was a major religious and educational center, home to a community of over 500 monks. As you explore its ancient structures, you’ll see the Church of the Holy Mother of God, the Church of San Amenaprkich, and the Chapel of San Gregorio, dating back to the 10th century. The Academy of Sanahin, established in the 11th century, played a crucial role in the preservation of Armenian culture, arts, and sciences. The monastery was renowned for its contributions to Armenian education, particularly in theology, medicine, and the arts.

Haghpat Monastery, located just to the north-east of Sanahin, is equally captivating and bears striking architectural similarities to its sister complex. Established between the X and XIII centuries, Haghpat flourished as both a religious center and a place of learning. It is home to one of the finest examples of medieval Armenian bell towers, built in 1245, and the refectory (XIII century) which remains a remarkable feature of the monastery complex. As at Sanahin, Haghpat also housed a renowned library, scriptorium, and medical school. The famous national poet and musician Sayat-Nova was among the monks of Haghpat.

Continue to Georgian – Armenian border. Passing boarder formalities. Transfer to Tbilisi. Check in hotel in Tbilisi.

Experience the charm of Tbilisi by night, as the city transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights and history. This evening city tour will take you through the most iconic landmarks, blending ancient heritage with modern elegance. Walk through cobbled streets, admire illuminated monuments, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Georgia’s fascinating capital.

Start at Metekhi Church, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. This is one of the oldest inhabited areas of Tbilisi, and from here, enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city’s shimmering skyline.

Stroll through the historic Abanotubani district, famous for its natural sulfur baths. These centuries-old domed bathhouses, glowing under soft evening lights, have welcomed visitors since the days of the Silk Road. Experience the steamy, mystical atmosphere, where history meets relaxation.

Take a cable car ride up to Narikala Fortress, one of the most ancient landmarks of Tbilisi, dating back to the 4th century. From this vantage point, watch Tbilisi light up below, offering unforgettable views of the cityscape and the twinkling riverbanks.

Cross the stunning Bridge of Peace, an ultra-modern, bow-shaped pedestrian bridge, designed by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi in 2010. The bridge glows with thousands of LED lights, offering a beautiful contrast between the old and new cityscapes.

Visit the Sioni Cathedral, one of Tbilisi’s most revered religious sites. This medieval Georgian Orthodox church is named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem and holds deep historical and spiritual significance.

End your evening with a relaxing walk through Sharden Street, a lively and stylish district lined with trendy cafes, wine bars, and restaurants. Here, you can enjoy a glass of famous Georgian wine, taste local delicacies, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Tbilisi by night.

O/n in Tbilisi. (B/–/-)

Breakfast at the hotel.
Explore Georgia’s Most Breathtaking Landscapes Along the Historic Georgian Military Road, a legendary route that winds through the heart of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Our first stop is the picturesque Jinvali Reservoir, a stunning тurquoise lake nestled among lush mountains. This man-made reservoir supplies water to Tbilisi and offers unforgettable panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Next, visit the 17th-century Ananuri Fortress, a historical castle complex that once served as the residence of the Dukes of Aragvi. Surrounded by defensive walls and watchtowers, the complex includes beautifully preserved churches adorned with intricate stone carvings.

Continuing our journey, we reach Gudauri, a renowned ski resort situated at 2,000 meters above sea level. Located on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, Gudauri is famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery and adventure sports. In summer, the green rolling hills and crisp alpine air provide an invigorating retreat from the city.

Driving further north, we cross the scenic Jvari Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,385 meters. The pass offers dramatic mountain views and is a key point along the ancient trade route connecting Georgia with Russia.

Arriving in Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), we find ourselves in one of the most stunning natural settings in Georgia. The small town is framed by the majestic Mount Kazbek (5,033 meters), one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus.

🚙 4X4 Jeep Adventure – To reach the Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, we take off-road 4X4 vehicles up a rugged mountain path. The breathtaking journey is an adventure in itself, leading us to one of the most famous and picturesque landmarks in Georgia.

Perched at an elevation of 2,170 meters, Gergeti Holy Trinity Church is an architectural masterpiece from the 14th century. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kazbek, this remote monastery offers unparalleled views and a spiritual atmosphere. The combination of medieval stone architecture and dramatic mountain scenery creates a truly breathtaking experience.

Return to Tbilisi

O/n in Tbilisi. (B/-/-)

Breakfast in the hotel

🍷 A Journey into Georgia’s Wine Country & The City of Love

Breakfast at the hotel.

The journey begins with a drive to the eastern region of Kakheti, the renowned wine region of Georgia, where ancient winemaking traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and charming historical towns await. Rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and majestic mountain backdrops create a picturesque setting, making this region one of the most beautiful in Georgia.

Arriving in Sighnaghi, we step into one of Georgia’s most charming and romantic towns. Nestled on a hilltop at 790 meters above sea level, Sighnaghi offers panoramic views of the stunning Alazani Valley, with the snow-capped Greater Caucasus Mountains as a backdrop. Sighnaghi is called the “City of Love” because it has a wedding house open 24/7, allowing couples to get married anytime, making it a popular destination for romance and celebrations.

Wander through the cobblestone streets, lined with pastel-colored wooden balconies and traditional Georgian houses.

Explore the 18th-century fortifications and walk along Sighnaghi’s ancient city walls, which resemble a “mini Great Wall of China”.

Enjoy the town’s cozy cafes, artisan shops, and lively atmosphere—a perfect place for a romantic stroll.

Just a short drive from Sighnaghi, we visit the Bodbe Monastery, a Sacred Pilgrimage Site,  one of Georgia’s holiest sites. Originally built in the 9th century, this Georgian Orthodox monastic complex holds great spiritual significance, as it is believed to be the burial place of St. Nino, the saint who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century.

Stroll through peaceful gardens with breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley.

Visit the beautifully restored monastery, which continues to function as a nunnery today.

🍷 Wine Tasting

Return to Tbilisi

Overnight in Tbilisi.

Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out. Transfer to Airport.