From Matenadaran to Garni: Tracing Culture and History

Day 1

Transfer from the Airport

Welcome to Armenia! Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your accommodation.

Day 2

Khor Virap Monastery, Birds-Cave (Areni-1), Hin Areni Wine Factory, Noravank Monastery
Start time: 10:00

Discover some of Armenia’s most iconic sites. Begin with Khor Virap Monastery, a legendary pilgrimage site offering breathtaking views of Mount Ararat. Continue to Noravank Monastery, famous for its unique two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church nestled in a red rock canyon.

Next, enjoy a wine tasting at Hin Areni Wine Factory, located in one of the oldest winemaking regions of Armenia. Conclude the day at Areni-1 Cave (also known as Birds-Cave), a significant archaeological site where the world’s oldest known winery was discovered.

Duration: 4–5 hours

Day 3

Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Dilijan (short stop), Goshavank Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery
Start time: 10:00

Start the day at Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in Eurasia. Visit the stunning Sevanavank Monastery on the peninsula for panoramic lake views.

Continue to the spa town of Dilijan, known as the "Armenian Switzerland" for its lush forests. Then explore two of the region’s treasured monastic complexes: Goshavank, surrounded by greenery, and Haghartsin, a beautifully renovated 10th-century monastery.

Duration: 9–10 hours

Day 4

Echmiadzin (Mother Cathedral, St. Hripsime, St. Gayane), Zvartnots
Start time: 10:00

Embark on a spiritual and historical journey. Visit St. Hripsime and St. Gayane, two early Christian churches dedicated to Roman martyrs. Continue to Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, the world’s first Christian cathedral and the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

End the tour at the Zvartnots Cathedral ruins, a 7th-century architectural marvel and UNESCO site, once one of the tallest buildings of its time.

Duration: 4–5 hours

Day 5

Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, Geghard Monastery, Lavash Baking Master Class
Start time: 10:00

This day offers a unique blend of history and tradition. Start with Garni Pagan Temple, the only Greco-Roman colonnaded building in the post-Soviet area. Walk down to the Garni Gorge to see the natural wonder known as the Symphony of Stones.

Continue to Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO site partially carved into the mountain. Conclude the day with a traditional lavash baking master class, an immersive experience into Armenian culinary culture.

Duration: 5–6 hours

Day 6

Gyumri (Urban Life Museum, Black Fortress, Old Town Walk), Harichavank Monastery
Start time: 09:00

Travel to Gyumri, Armenia’s cultural capital and second-largest city. Explore the Urban Life Museum, offering a deep dive into local traditions and daily life. Visit the historic Black Fortress, built in 1834 and listed among intangible cultural heritage monuments.

Stroll through Gyumri’s old streets, lined with 19th-century architecture, and feel the charm of its artistic spirit. End the day at Harichavank Monastery, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop of Mount Aragats.

Duration: 10–11 hours

Day 7

Transfer to the Airport

Your journey comes to an end. Enjoy your transfer to the airport and take with you unforgettable memories of Armenia!