Classic tour in Armenia

Arrival to Yerevan, meeting at Zvartnots International airport. Transfer to the hotel, leisure time. In the evening a panoramic tour of the capital of Armenia, which is one of the oldest cities in the world. We will see the Republic Square, the National Opera and Ballet Theater, cultural – architectural complex Cascade, the monument “Mother Armenia”. It is possible to arrange dinner at the traditional restaurant, where each can taste delicious national dishes (upon request).

After breakfast a trip to the cave Monastery Geghard (13^th century), which consists of three churches and a huge mausoleum carved into the mountain. Continuation of the tour will bring us to the pagan temple of Garni (1^st century) – the only Hellenistic temple extant in the region. Inspection of “Temple of the Sun” and the ancient royal baths, situated on the edge of the picturesque valley. Lunch in a private house where we’ll see the baking process of Armenian traditional flatbread, lavash (upon request). By the same time, we will participate in the process of baking. Return to Yerevan. Visit to “Ararat” Brandy Factory with excursion and brandy tasting.

Breakfast. The road from Yerevan leads through the plains of Ararat, where all of a sudden an attractive picture of Khor-Virap Monastery appears. The monastery is located 200 meters away from the Turkish border. It is the nearest spot to Ararat Mountain from Armenia. Later we will visit Noravank Monastery, which is built in an inaccessible location among an amazing nature. The monastery is overhanging the gorge of the river Arpa. Lunch in a local restaurant. On the way back we will stop at Areni wine factory in Areni village. Return to Yerevan.

Breakfast. A trip to Lake Sevan which is situated at an altitude above 1900m. Its crystal-clear transparent water changes color several times during the day leaving unforgettable expressions. Inspection of Sevan Monastery, located on the peninsula that offers magnificent panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Lunch time. The tour will be continued to the forested resort town of Dilijan, which is also called “Armenian Little Switzerland” for its nature. We will drive through a plush forest to reach the Haghartsin Monastery, an 11-13^th cc. church situated deep in the woods. Dinner and overnight in Dilijan.

Breakfast. Walk along one of the most beautiful and oldest streets of the Old Dilijan – Sharambeyan where we will find small art schools and souvenir shops. After we start to the Northern region of Armenia. Inspection of the medieval Sanahin bridge over the river Debed. Excursion to the Monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat (10 -13^th cc.), which are among the outstanding works of medieval Armenian architecture. In their artistic merits they transcend the limits of national culture and they are now listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Property. Lunch in a local restaurant. Return to Yerevan.

After breakfast we will visit Matenadaran – Institute of ancient manuscripts. Here are kept more than 17,000 manuscripts and the collection is constantly updated with new discoveries, acquisitions and gifts. A trip to Echmiadzin, the spiritual and administrative center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Inspection of the pearls of Armenian architecture of the Church of St. Hripsime (7^th century), and the world’s first Christian Cathedral (4^th century). We will visit the unique museum of Echmiadzin Cathedral. Visit the Church of St. Gayane (7 century). On the way back stop at the ruins of one of the most famous temples in Armenia – Zvartnots Cathedral (7^th century). Return to Yerevan. Lunch in a national restaurant.

Breakfast. Transfer to the airport and departure.