Discover Armenia

The Discover Armenia tour is a 5 night exploration of Armenia, one of the Caucasus most captivating countries.

Discover Armenia Tour

Discover Armenia Tour

This tour will take you on a journey through the heart of this ancient and fascinating country. You'll visit the bustling capital city of Yerevan, the serene shores of Lake Sevan, the awe-inspiring Echmiadzin Cathedral, and the breathtaking Khor Virap and Geghard monasteries.

Armenia's modern and vibrant capital, Yerevan is a city of contrasts. Old meets new in its bustling streets, where ancient ruins and modern skyscrapers stand side by side. You'll start your tour with a visit to the Republic Square, the heart of the city and home to some of its most iconic landmarks. Next, you'll head to the idyllic Lake Sevan, Armenia's largest lake and one of the highest lakes in the world. Here, you'll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Sevanavank Monastery, a 9th-century monastery perched on a peninsula overlooking the lake.

Echmiadzin Cathedral is the spiritual centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church and one of the oldest Christian cathedrals in the world. Built in the 4th century, the cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any visitor to Armenia. During your visit, you'll have the chance to explore the cathedral's impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.

Any tour to Armenia must visit the Khor Virap Monastery. Located on the Ararat Plain it has stunning views of Mount Ararat, the sacred mountain of the Armenian people. The monastery is also home to the Khor Virap dungeon, where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive cave monasteries in the world. Carved into the hillside, the monastery is home to several beautiful churches and chapels.

Throughout this short tour of Armenia, you'll have the opportunity to learn about Armenia's rich history and culture, from its ancient past to its vibrant present. You'll also have the chance to sample delicious Armenian cuisine, meet friendly locals, and create unforgettable memories.

Day 1 – Arrival in Armenia
On arrival at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, you will be met by our representative and then transfer to the hotel for your first night in Armenia.
Overnight at Ani Plaza Hotel or similar

Day 2 – Yerevan
We will start our tour of Yerevan in Republic Square, a masterpiece of architecture by Alexander Tamanian. Then, we will go to Cascade Complex, an open-air museum of modern art. The complex connects the downtown area with the residential area with massive stairways leading up to the Victory Park, providing a fantastic view of the entire downtown from above. The monument to Mother Armenia is standing tall in the park, carefully guarding the city from above. Our next stop is the Opera House, a remarkable example of urban architecture and a lively hub of the city. Freedom Square is just behind it, surrounded by parks and outdoor cafes, which are a favourite spot to spend breezy summer evenings. We will have lunch at a local restaurant.
After a short break, we will visit the Matenadaran, a library that is home to books, manuscripts, and other relics from long-bygone eras of Europe and Asia. There, we can also feast our eyes upon the first copy of the Armenian Bible and the Gospels, which are furnished with stunningly beautiful illustrations. Finally, we will stop by the famous Yerevan Brandy Factory, founded in 1887. The factory museum and part of the factory floor are open to visitors year-round. Also, the factory is outfitted with a dedicated bar and a tasting room where visitors can try out some of the most exquisite cognacs in the world.
Overnight at Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 3 – Sevan, Dilijan & Haghartsin
This morning, after breakfast we will set off to Lake Sevan, Armenia's emerald and the second largest alpine lake in the world. There is plenty of time to admire the picturesque views of one of the highest bodies of water on Earth. We continue to drive north to the spectacular forested region of Dilijan, a resort town known as "Armenian Switzerland." Home to numerous Armenian artists, composers, and filmmakers, Dilijan's quaint streets are lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings filled with museums, small stores, and cafes. We will have lunch at a local restaurant, before a visit to Haghartsin Monastery, located high in the wooded mountains, with eagles soaring overhead. The oldest building on the complex, St. Gregory the Illuminator's Church, was built between the 9th and 10th centuries and was also the site of the first musical university of Armenia. Drive back to Yerevan.
Overnight at Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 4 – Echmiadzin & Zvartnots
Visit Echmiadzin Cathedral, one of the oldest standing churches in Christendom and the Mother Church of all Armenia. It was built in 303 AD and is considered the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia. Then visit the UNESCO Heritage listed remains of Zvartnots Cathedral, a perfect example of 7th century Armenian architecture. We then drive to Tasty House, where you will have a delicious lunch and learn how to make dolma. Our tour continues as we visit Alluria Winery, a small family-owned winery that produces unique wines using traditional methods. You will have the opportunity to tour the winery, learn about the family's winemaking traditions, and sample some of their wines. The wine theme continues as we visit Armenia Wine Factory, a modern winery that balances ancient traditions with the newest technology. You will tour the factory, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of their wines and cognac. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Nazani Restaurant.
Overnight at Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 5 – Khor Viap, Garni & Geghard
Take a trip to Khor Virap Monastery, a charming architectural marvel with a rich religious and cultural history. It is located in the Ararat Valley, against the backdrop of biblical Mount Ararat, where Noah's Ark is said to have landed. The monastery's significance stems from its association with Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who introduced Christianity to Armenia, making it the world's first Christian nation.
We proceed to the village of Garni, home to the Hellenistic citadel and pagan temple of Garni, an impressive example of ancient Armenian architecture. It was built in the first century AD by King Tiridates of Armenia and dedicated to a pagan god, possibly Mithra, the sun god. Enjoy lunch at a local house in Garni, where you can watch the Armenian national bread, lavash, being baked in a traditional underground oven called a tonir.
After lunch, visit Geghard Monastery, another incredible ancient Armenian monastery, partly carved out of a mountain. Its name, meaning "the Monastery of the Spear," comes from the spear that wounded Jesus during his crucifixion, which is said to have been brought to Armenia by the Apostle Thaddeus and stored among many other relics. In Geghard, you will have the opportunity to witness a duduk performance. The duduk is a traditional Armenian instrument with a haunting, melancholic sound.
Our tour will then head back to Yerevan, where you will enjoy a farewell dinner at Keghar Restaurant. Here, you can experience the warmth of Armenian hospitality and savour a delicious traditional meal, accompanied by fine wines. After dinner, take a walk around Vernissage, a seemingly endless market of handcrafted goods and trinkets. Who knows, maybe you'll find the perfect memento of your Armenian adventure?
Overnight at Ani Plaza Hotel or similar (BLD)

Day 6 - Departure from Armenia
The day is free to relax or explore until, at a suitable time you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight from Yerevan.

Get in touch with Our Local Tour to book the Discover Armenia Tour

Departure Dates
This is a private tour and can be arranged for any departure date. The itinerary maybe changed due to weather conditions. This itinerary can be tailor-made to your exact requirements.

Price
from £1395 per person based on two people travelling and sharing a room and £175 single supplement

Included in the Discover Armenia Tour

  • 5 nights accommodation as described throughout the tour
  • Professional English Speaking Guide
  • Transportation (vehicle type will depend on the group size)
  • Wine tasting and entrance fees (museums are closed on Mondays and on public holidays).
  • Meals as described in the itinerary B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner
  • 1 bottle of water per person per day.

Not Included in the Discover Armenia Tour

  • International travel to the start and end point - contact us for information and flight options.
  • Any airport taxes
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any visa requirements
  • Drinks at meals not mentioned
  • Any Photography and Video fees;
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips for drivers and guides

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice. Please refer to the COVID-19 entry requirements page for any country-specific conditions of entry.

Armenia - https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/armenia

Visa and Passport Information
Passport validity
If you are visiting Armenia, your passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you arrive.
Visas
British Citizen passport holders can stay in Armenia without a visa up to 180 days per year.

Local Laws and Custom
It is advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport as identification at all times.

The use of illegal drugs carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms. The penalty for smuggling drugs carries a prison term of between 4 to 10 years. The use, possession and trade of marijuana, cannabidiol (CBD), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products is illegal in Armenia. Individuals found in possession of marijuana, CBD, or THC products may face prosecution, fines or imprisonment even when these substances are used or prescribed for medical purposes.

Homosexuality was decriminalised in 2003 but is still viewed with disapproval by many Armenians. LGBT people in Armenia tend to be discreet about their sexuality. Local LGBT groups occasionally suffer from verbal and physical harassment. Physical contact between members of the same sex, such as holding hands and kissing, are common signs of friendship in Armenian culture, and not necessarily an indicator of sexual orientation.

Don’t photograph sites such as military bases, equipment and installations. These are considered sensitive areas and visitors have been detained and questioned while attempting to photograph them.

Health
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines.

The reciprocal healthcare agreement between the UK and Armenia terminated on 1 January 2016.
Medical facilities are generally poor, particularly outside Yerevan, and treatment is not recommended for anything other than minor or straightforward ailments. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 103 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

What to bring on the Discover Armenia Tour

Clothing
Lightweight, casual, non-synthetic clothing (cotton and natural fibers are best) which appropriately cover the body, when in the company of the local communities. Please understand local customs and religious requirements relating to dress codes. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it needs to be respectful.

Footwear
The ideal footwear would be walking shoes or boots and sandals.

Luggage while on your tour
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suit case.

Equipment
We recommend a sunhat, suncream, a torch, insect repellent and a reusable waterbottle. A power adapter for phones, laptops, etc. Earplugs, particularly if you are a light sleeper!

Currency
The Armenian currency is known as the "dram", and the currency code often used in exchange rate terminology is AMD. Cash can be changed at banks and in exchange bureaux. British pounds may be less readily accepted outside Yerevan than US dollars or Euros. Most major credit cards and UK debit cards are accepted at stores and restaurants in Yerevan but far less so outside the capital. Prices for goods and services are sometimes quoted in US dollars, but by law payment must be made in Armenian Dram. There are many ATMs in Yerevan. They accept major credit cards and debit cards with the Maestro/Cirrus or Visa sign displayed on the card.

Weather in the Caucuses
The best time to visit the Caucasus is generally spring or autumn. Georgia’s Greater Caucasus Mountain range is closed to visitors (except skiers) from November to April. July and August are the hottest months in the cities, so the ideal time to go would be spring, when the valleys are filled with a blanket of wildflowers, or autumn, where the weather is slightly more reliable in terms of dryness.

Electric Supply & Plugs
Electrical supply is 220V/50 Hz and plugs have two round pins.

Ready to book or need more information?

Then get in touch with our expert travel consultants now. We can help you with tailormade options, best times to travel and much more...

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