Highlights of Armenia - 5 days (AM-01)
This short introductory tour packs a lot into five days. You’ll enjoy Armenia in microcosm, visiting several of its UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the breathtaking Khor Virap and Noravank monasteries, and the unusual Temple of Garni. You’ll get to know the capital city Yerevan, with its Soviet-era architecture, bustling market and views from the Cascade of Mount Ararat. Round off your Armenia education with a visit to Areni Winery.Yerevan
Garni
Geghard
Khor Virap
Areni
Noravank
Echmiatsin
Zvarnots
Highlights
Day 1. Yerevani
Today you’ll arrive in the Armenian capital Yerevan. Transfer to your hotel is included. Overnight Yerevan. (D)
Day 2. Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Yerevan
This morning you’ll enjoy a city tour of Yerevan. Begin in Republic Square, where you’ll admire the imposing architecture and watching the Singing Fountains. From there, take a stroll along the Vernissage, the largest open air market in the city and a great place to shop for antiques and collectibles. Next, we’ll take you to the Matenadaran, a repository of ancient manuscripts. Later, we’ll take the escalator to the top of the Yerevan Cascade. From the top enjoy panoramic views across the city and to Mount Ararat in the distance. This afternoon, we’ll take an excursion out of the city to Echmiadzin to visit Armenia’s oldest cathedral and to Zvartnots, where you’ll find ruins of a 7th century, UNESCO-listed cathedral. Return to Yerevan for dinner. Overnight in Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 3. Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan
Today our sightseeing programme combines two incredible historical sights. The Temple of Garni is unusual for Armenia in that it is an Ionic pagan temple with Greco-Roman colonnades. It was built in the 1st century AD; though it collapsed during a 17th century earthquake, it was painstakingly restored in the early 1970s. Nearby, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery. Gregory the Illuminator founded it in the 4th century, where there was a sacred spring in a cave. The present structure dates from 1315 and you can pay a visit to the spring to this day. Return to Yerevan after your tour and the rest of the day is free to enjoy at leisure. Overnight Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 4. Yerevan - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni- Yerevan
We’ll begin today’s itinerary at the monastery of Khor Virap. Morning’s the best time to be able to catch a glimpse of distant Mount Ararat over the border. The views from this spectacular monastery are first rate but head inside and descend the steps to see its well too. Next up is Noravank. Hidden away up a canyon, this monastery occupies a setting even more dramatic. Climb to the second floor of the church for incredible views back along the valley. Finally, we’ll take you to Areni. There, we’ll enjoy a wine-tasting at one of Armenia’s premier wineries where there’ll be a chance to pick up a bottle or two to take home with you. Overnight in Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 5. Yerevan
Today is departure day. We hope you’ve enjoyed this brief introduction to Armenia and its capital and have made many happy memories. (B)
Quick Facts
- Season: Winter
- Starts: Yerevan
- Ends: Yerevan
- Departs: Thursday
- Duration: 5 days
- Group Size: 2-10
- Tour Grade:
Tour Inclusions
-
Accommodation
-
Guided tours & cultural programme
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Half-board meals
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Ground transportation
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Airport transfers
Not included
Download tour dossier in PDF Compare tours

Archaeological excavations at Areni-1 in 2007 uncovered several interesting finds, notably three pots containing human skulls. Inside one was what’s thought to be the oldest ... Read more

Renamed Vagharshapat a couple of decades ago, this is Armenia’s fourth largest city. The base of the Armenian Catholicos, it’s packed full of churches and has not one b... Read more

One of Armenia’s must-see sights, the archaeological site of Garni features the remains of the temple and Roman-style baths built in 76 AD on the foundation of stone walls co... Read more

North east of Garni, higher up the Azat Gorge, sits the Geghard Monastery. Its cathedral was constructed in 1215 though the monastery had been around for hundreds of years before t... Read more

Khor Virap has immense significance to Armenian history. It was there that Grigor Lusavorich, or St Gregory the Illuminator as he later became, was imprisoned. Whilst behind bars, ... Read more

With its backdrop of the terracotta cliffs of the Amaghu River gorge, this monastery must have one of the most picturesque settings in all of Armenia. The monastery features the tw... Read more

Nicknamed the “pink city” on account of the widespread use of rose-coloured tuff rock in its architecture, the Armenian capital was founded way back in 782 BC. Modern Y... Read more

The collapse of this ruined 7th century cathedral located just a few kilometres from Yerevan’s international airport remains a mystery. It was built at the place where King T... Read more
Included in the Tour Price
Accommodation
All accommodation at your destination is included in the holiday price. Hotel category - according to the package type selected.
All accommodation at your destination is included in the holiday price. Hotel category - according to the package type selected.
Guided tours & cultural programme
All tours with entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included in the holiday price. There will be an English-speaking guide on all tours. Please note, we can arrange guides speaking other languages upon request. Please let us know your preferences.
All tours with entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included in the holiday price. There will be an English-speaking guide on all tours. Please note, we can arrange guides speaking other languages upon request. Please let us know your preferences.
Half-board meals
Half-board (breakfast and dinner) each day. Service begins with dinner on the day of arrival and ends with breakfast on the day of departure. Please advise us if you have any special dietary requirements. You will be able to get quick lunch at your expense during excursions stopping at local cafes or restaurants.
Half-board (breakfast and dinner) each day. Service begins with dinner on the day of arrival and ends with breakfast on the day of departure. Please advise us if you have any special dietary requirements. You will be able to get quick lunch at your expense during excursions stopping at local cafes or restaurants.
Ground transportation
All domestic transportation at your destination is included as per the itinerary. In the countryside we use chauffeur driven 4WD jeeps and in the city areas – minivans or coaches. All vehicles have air-conditioning system.
All domestic transportation at your destination is included as per the itinerary. In the countryside we use chauffeur driven 4WD jeeps and in the city areas – minivans or coaches. All vehicles have air-conditioning system.
Airport transfers
All airport transfers as per itinerary are included in the tour price. We will also provide airport transfers if you arrange your own arrival / departure flights regardless of the time of the flight, you will need to let us know your flight details. We operate all transfers 24 hours a day.
All airport transfers as per itinerary are included in the tour price. We will also provide airport transfers if you arrange your own arrival / departure flights regardless of the time of the flight, you will need to let us know your flight details. We operate all transfers 24 hours a day.
Not included
Personal travel insurance
Personal travel insurance is not included in the holiday price. It is advisable to take out your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip as cover will commence for pre-departure cancellation from the policy issue date. You can arrange your personal travel insurance on our website.
Personal travel insurance is not included in the holiday price. It is advisable to take out your travel insurance at the time of booking your trip as cover will commence for pre-departure cancellation from the policy issue date. You can arrange your personal travel insurance on our website.
Optional excursions and services
Optional excursions and services not listed in the itinerary. Please let us know if you wish to book any additional excursions.
Optional excursions and services not listed in the itinerary. Please let us know if you wish to book any additional excursions.
Day 1. Yerevani
Today you’ll arrive in the Armenian capital Yerevan. Transfer to your hotel is included. Overnight Yerevan. (D)
Day 2. Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Yerevan
This morning you’ll enjoy a city tour of Yerevan. Begin in Republic Square, where you’ll admire the imposing architecture and watching the Singing Fountains. From there, take a stroll along the Vernissage, the largest open air market in the city and a great place to shop for antiques and collectibles. Next, we’ll take you to the Matenadaran, a repository of ancient manuscripts. Later, we’ll take the escalator to the top of the Yerevan Cascade. From the top enjoy panoramic views across the city and to Mount Ararat in the distance. This afternoon, we’ll take an excursion out of the city to Echmiadzin to visit Armenia’s oldest cathedral and to Zvartnots, where you’ll find ruins of a 7th century, UNESCO-listed cathedral. Return to Yerevan for dinner. Overnight in Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 3. Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan
Today our sightseeing programme combines two incredible historical sights. The Temple of Garni is unusual for Armenia in that it is an Ionic pagan temple with Greco-Roman colonnades. It was built in the 1st century AD; though it collapsed during a 17th century earthquake, it was painstakingly restored in the early 1970s. Nearby, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery. Gregory the Illuminator founded it in the 4th century, where there was a sacred spring in a cave. The present structure dates from 1315 and you can pay a visit to the spring to this day. Return to Yerevan after your tour and the rest of the day is free to enjoy at leisure. Overnight Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 4. Yerevan - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni- Yerevan
We’ll begin today’s itinerary at the monastery of Khor Virap. Morning’s the best time to be able to catch a glimpse of distant Mount Ararat over the border. The views from this spectacular monastery are first rate but head inside and descend the steps to see its well too. Next up is Noravank. Hidden away up a canyon, this monastery occupies a setting even more dramatic. Climb to the second floor of the church for incredible views back along the valley. Finally, we’ll take you to Areni. There, we’ll enjoy a wine-tasting at one of Armenia’s premier wineries where there’ll be a chance to pick up a bottle or two to take home with you. Overnight in Yerevan. (B, D)
Day 5. Yerevan
Today is departure day. We hope you’ve enjoyed this brief introduction to Armenia and its capital and have made many happy memories. (B)
Want to travel on different dates?
Please see below for our group tour dates, if you would like to travel on a different day, please let us know and we will come back to you with an offer. There might be additional surcharges for a private tour but all depends on the number of people in your party and your travel preferences.
Note on pricing
Prices depend on the hotel category and are listed below. Please read notes at the bottom of the table to learn more about the meaning of each pricing section.
Please see below for our group tour dates, if you would like to travel on a different day, please let us know and we will come back to you with an offer. There might be additional surcharges for a private tour but all depends on the number of people in your party and your travel preferences.
Note on pricing
Prices depend on the hotel category and are listed below. Please read notes at the bottom of the table to learn more about the meaning of each pricing section.
COMFORT - 3* PACKAGE
Dates | Excluding flights | Single supplement | Solo supplement | Book |
03.18.2021 - 03.22.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
03.25.2021 - 03.29.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
04.01.2021 - 04.05.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
04.08.2021 - 04.12.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
04.15.2021 - 04.19.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
04.22.2021 - 04.26.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
04.29.2021 - 05.03.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
05.06.2021 - 05.10.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
05.13.2021 - 05.17.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
05.20.2021 - 05.24.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
05.27.2021 - 05.31.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
06.03.2021 - 06.07.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
06.10.2021 - 06.14.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
06.17.2021 - 06.21.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
06.24.2021 - 06.28.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
07.01.2021 - 07.05.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
07.08.2021 - 07.12.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
07.15.2021 - 07.19.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
07.22.2021 - 07.26.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
07.29.2021 - 08.02.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
08.05.2021 - 08.09.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
08.12.2021 - 08.16.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
08.19.2021 - 08.23.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
08.26.2021 - 08.30.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
09.02.2021 - 09.06.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
09.09.2021 - 09.13.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
09.16.2021 - 09.20.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
09.23.2021 - 09.27.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
09.30.2021 - 10.04.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
10.07.2021 - 10.11.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
10.14.2021 - 10.18.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
10.21.2021 - 10.25.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
10.28.2021 - 11.01.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
11.04.2021 - 11.08.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
11.11.2021 - 11.15.2021 | $995 | $125 | $315 | book now |
PREMIUM - 4* PACKAGE
Dates | Excluding flights | Single supplement | Solo supplement | Book |
03.18.2021 - 03.22.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
03.25.2021 - 03.29.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
04.01.2021 - 04.05.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
04.08.2021 - 04.12.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
04.15.2021 - 04.19.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
04.22.2021 - 04.26.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
04.29.2021 - 05.03.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
05.06.2021 - 05.10.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
05.13.2021 - 05.17.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
05.20.2021 - 05.24.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
05.27.2021 - 05.31.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
06.03.2021 - 06.07.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
06.10.2021 - 06.14.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
06.17.2021 - 06.21.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
06.24.2021 - 06.28.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
07.01.2021 - 07.05.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
07.08.2021 - 07.12.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
07.15.2021 - 07.19.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
07.22.2021 - 07.26.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
07.29.2021 - 08.02.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
08.05.2021 - 08.09.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
08.12.2021 - 08.16.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
08.19.2021 - 08.23.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
08.26.2021 - 08.30.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
09.02.2021 - 09.06.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
09.09.2021 - 09.13.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
09.16.2021 - 09.20.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
09.23.2021 - 09.27.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
09.30.2021 - 10.04.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
10.07.2021 - 10.11.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
10.14.2021 - 10.18.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
10.21.2021 - 10.25.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
10.28.2021 - 11.01.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
11.04.2021 - 11.08.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
11.11.2021 - 11.15.2021 | $1,045 | $145 | $315 | book now |
Note on pricing:
- All prices are per person, in British Pounds. All included services are listed in the tour overview section.
- Price “Including flight” is subject to airfare availability and will be reconfirmed upon your booking. We advise not to delay with booking your tour as airfares may go up.
- Price “Excluding flight” does not cover airfare, you are free to book your own flights.
- Single supplement goes towards single room accommodation.
- Solo supplement is payable in the unlikely event when you are the only person on the tour. It will be refunded if other people join the same tour.
Hotel Cascade
Yerevan 3* Historic Yerevan
Hotel 4*
DESCRIPTION
Since opening in January 2013, the Cascade Hotel in Yerevan has been pleasing customers with its quality of accommodation and family atmosphere. Located an easy stroll from the Cascade Complex and also the Cafesjian Centre of Arts, many of the Armenian capital’s attractions are just a stone’s throw from the hotel.
The 25 well-equipped rooms at the Cascade Hotel are classically furnished and are en-suite. They feature air conditioning, flat screen TV, phone and in room refrigerator. In addition there is free WiFi across the hotel.
The hotel’s restaurant serves both Armenian and international cuisine and there’s also a lounge bar where you’ll be able to sip a cocktail or relax with a glass of wine. In addition a range of services are provided including free parking to the front of the hotel, 24 hour currency exchange and an ATM.
FACILITIES
PHOTOGALLERY
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DESCRIPTION
Opened in 2012, Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel is the most recent of the Tufenkian Heritage hotels to open in Armenia. Conveniently located at the junction of Hanrapetutyan and Buzand Streets, the hotel is situated near Republic Square right at the heart of the action. This elegant boutique hotel sets style at the centre of its agenda yet doesn’t forget the importance of backing up aesthetics with good service.
The 85 rooms are equipped with designer fittings, satellite TV, minibar and furnishings chosen with comfort in mind. It offers free WiFi and a seasonal outdoor pool. The hotel’s Kharpert Restaurant specialises in Armenian and Italian dishes; there’s also a bar lounge and a conference centre.
FACILITIES
PHOTOGALLERY
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Yerevan 3* Historic Yerevan
Hotel 4*
Hotel Cascade Yerevan 3*
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Address: 10/10 Zarubyan street, Yerevan, Armenia Telephone: +374 60 400 440 |
DESCRIPTION
Since opening in January 2013, the Cascade Hotel in Yerevan has been pleasing customers with its quality of accommodation and family atmosphere. Located an easy stroll from the Cascade Complex and also the Cafesjian Centre of Arts, many of the Armenian capital’s attractions are just a stone’s throw from the hotel.
The 25 well-equipped rooms at the Cascade Hotel are classically furnished and are en-suite. They feature air conditioning, flat screen TV, phone and in room refrigerator. In addition there is free WiFi across the hotel.
The hotel’s restaurant serves both Armenian and international cuisine and there’s also a lounge bar where you’ll be able to sip a cocktail or relax with a glass of wine. In addition a range of services are provided including free parking to the front of the hotel, 24 hour currency exchange and an ATM.
FACILITIES
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Historic Yerevan Hotel 4*
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Address: 48 Hanrapetutyan St, Yerevan, Armenia Telephone: +374 93 94 78 88 |
DESCRIPTION
Opened in 2012, Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel is the most recent of the Tufenkian Heritage hotels to open in Armenia. Conveniently located at the junction of Hanrapetutyan and Buzand Streets, the hotel is situated near Republic Square right at the heart of the action. This elegant boutique hotel sets style at the centre of its agenda yet doesn’t forget the importance of backing up aesthetics with good service.
The 85 rooms are equipped with designer fittings, satellite TV, minibar and furnishings chosen with comfort in mind. It offers free WiFi and a seasonal outdoor pool. The hotel’s Kharpert Restaurant specialises in Armenian and Italian dishes; there’s also a bar lounge and a conference centre.
FACILITIES
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Alternatives

Best of Armenia - 8 days (AM-02)
This eight day tour will provide the opportunity to visit some of the country's most fascinating sights at a leisurely pace. You’ll have time to explore the capital city of Yerevan as well as visit ancient monasteries, and of course appreciate mountainous Armenia’s most breathtaking scenery.
Included: Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Garni - Geghard - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank
Included: Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Garni - Geghard - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank

Great Armenian Discovery - 10 days (AM-03)
This ten day tour will provide the opportunity to have an in-depth visit to the country’s most fascinating and culturally important sights. At a leisurely pace, you’ll explore the major landmarks of Armenia and also visit a local family to learn about the way of life in these parts.
Included: Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Garni - Geghard - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank - Noratus - Selim Pass - Jermuk - Tatev - Goris - Khndzoresk Caves - Gladzor
Included: Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvarnots - Garni - Geghard - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank - Noratus - Selim Pass - Jermuk - Tatev - Goris - Khndzoresk Caves - Gladzor

Highlights of Iran and Armenia - 15 days (CT-04)
This two week tour marries exotic Iran with the world’s oldest Christian nation, Armenia. A packed programme celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the two neighbours, featuring ancient mosques and palaces as well as monasteries precariously perched alongside river gorges and on hill tops. The tour will delight history fans and architecture buffs, interesting anyone with a desire to travel a little off the beaten track and reap the rewards of a warm welcome.
Included: Shiraz - Persepolis - Pasargadae - Isfahan - Abyaneh - Kashan - Tehran - Tabriz - Jolfa - Khndzoresk caves - Goris - Tatev - Noravank - Khor Virap - Yerevan - Echmiadzin - Zvartnots - Garni - Geghard - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank
Included: Shiraz - Persepolis - Pasargadae - Isfahan - Abyaneh - Kashan - Tehran - Tabriz - Jolfa - Khndzoresk caves - Goris - Tatev - Noravank - Khor Virap - Yerevan - Echmiadzin - Zvartnots - Garni - Geghard - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat - Sanahin - Goshavank

Short break in Istanbul with a visit to Cappadocia - 6 days (TR-02)
This six day holiday combines the ancient city of Istanbul with the natural beauty of Cappadocia. Beginning in Istanbul at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, you’ll visit bucket list worthy sites such as the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. In Cappadocia, discover a world of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, ancient churches hewn from the rock and underground cities.

Yerevan
Nicknamed the “pink city” on account of the widespread use of rose-coloured tuff rock in its architecture, the Armenian capital was founded way back in 782 BC. Modern Yerevan occupies a commanding position in the Ararat Valley straddling the banks of the River Razdan. The view of the city from the Akhtanak Bridge which crosses the river gorge is sure to be a highlight of any stay in Armenia.

Garni
One of Armenia’s must-see sights, the archaeological site of Garni features the remains of the temple and Roman-style baths built in 76 AD on the foundation of stone walls constructed several thousand years earlier. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of the sun, Mythra, and its design follows the theories of geometry laid out by Greeks Plato and Pythagoras. But there’s more. Hike the canyons of the Goghi or Azat River that meet at Garni and watch the sun light up the stone of the temple, one of the most beautiful sights in the country.

Geghard
North east of Garni, higher up the Azat Gorge, sits the Geghard Monastery. Its cathedral was constructed in 1215 though the monastery had been around for hundreds of years before that. Geghard is also known for its excellent acoustics. Climb the stone steps to the left of the church and enter a chamber. The sounds reverberate such that a single voice can sound like a choir. Geghard is predated by Airivank, translating as “cave monastery” and there are plenty of caves to explore in the vicinity though sadly nothing remains of the original monastery.

Khor Virap
North east of Garni, higher up the Azat Gorge, sits the Geghard Monastery. Its cathedral was constructed in 1215 though the monastery had been around for hundreds of years before that. Geghard is also known for its excellent acoustics. Climb the stone steps to the left of the church and enter a chamber. The sounds reverberate such that a single voice can sound like a choir. Geghard is predated by Airivank, translating as “cave monastery” and there are plenty of caves to explore in the vicinity though sadly nothing remains of the original monastery.

Areni
Archaeological excavations at Areni-1 in 2007 uncovered several interesting finds, notably three pots containing human skulls. Inside one was what’s thought to be the oldest known brain tissue on the planet. Other discoveries included the world’s oldest leather shoe and also the earliest known winery, over six thousand years old. Today, the village of Areni is still known for its wine production, though technically the bulk of the wine is from nearby Getap. Close by is the church of St Astvatsatsin, built in 1321 on a plateau overlooking Areni and the Arpa River.

Noravank
With its backdrop of the terracotta cliffs of the Amaghu River gorge, this monastery must have one of the most picturesque settings in all of Armenia. The monastery features the two-storey Holy Mother of God church, Surb Astvatsatsin as well as St Gregory’s chapel with its vaulted hall. In the 13th and 14th centuries this was the home of Syunik’s bishops and therefore an important religious centre.

Echmiatsin
Renamed Vagharshapat a couple of decades ago, this is Armenia’s fourth largest city. The base of the Armenian Catholicos, it’s packed full of churches and has not one but five monuments listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: the Cathedral of Echmiatsin, St Hripsime Cathedral, St Gayane Church, Shoghakat Church and Zvartnots Cathedral. If that’s not enough, there are also several interesting museums including the Khrimian Art Museum and the Alex and Marie Manoogian Treasury House.

Zvarnots
The collapse of this ruined 7th century cathedral located just a few kilometres from Yerevan’s international airport remains a mystery. It was built at the place where King Trdat and St Gregory the Illuminator were supposed to have met. Built by Catholicos Nerses III, or Catholicos the Builder, and consecrated in 652, its remains were uncovered at the start of the 20th century. Excavations revealed a winery and palace as well as the cathedral. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral was depicted on the first 100 AMD banknotes.