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Discovery of Caucasus Holiday Planner Cross-border tours Highlights of Iran and Armenia - 15 days (CT-04)

Highlights of Iran and Armenia - 15 days (CT-04)

Group size
2-10 people
Season
All year
Duration
15 days
Departs
Tuesday
Starts
Shiraz
Ends
Yerevan
Countries
Armenia, Iran
Cities
Areni, Dilijan, Garni, Geghard, Goris, Goshavank, Haghpat, Isfahan, Jolfa, Kashan, Khor Virap, Noravank, Nordooz, Sanahin, Sevan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Tatev, Tehran, Yerevan
Goris - 1 night
Haghpat - 1 night
Isfahan - 2 nights
Jolfa - 1 night
Kashan - 1 night
Shiraz - 2 nights
Tabriz - 1 night
Tehran - 1 night
Yerevan - 4 nights
Price
from $2,795
Reservation
View dates and prices
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.
 

Shiraz
Day 1
Transfer from the airport to the hotel
Our driver will be waiting at the airport for your arrival. You’ll transfer to your hotel and there’ll be time for you to rest and settle in before our tour programme begins tomorrow. Overnight in Shiraz. (Dinner)
Day 2
Visit to Nasir Al Mulk mosque
Visit Vakil Complex
The name of Shiraz will be a familiar one to wine lovers; the grape originated here though these days, Shiraz wine comes mainly from France and Australia rather than Iran. The vineyards may be no more, but there are plenty of sights to explore. Your included city tour today takes you first to Nasir Al Mulk mosque; known as the Pink Mosque, it was completed in 1888. From there, you’ll visit Vakil Complex, comprising a mosque, traditional baths and a thriving bazaar. You’ll round off the day’s sightseeing with the imposing Karimkhan Citadel, the beautiful Eram Garden and Hafez Tomb. Overnight in Shiraz. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Persepolis - Naghsh-e Rostam - Pasargadae - Isfahan
Day 3
Transfer by car / minibus: Shiraz - Isfahan
Stop at Pasargadae
Trip to Naghsh-e Rostam
Sightseeing in Persepolis
This morning you’ll set off for the fabled city of Isfahan. We’ll break our journey at Persepolis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in 518BC as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Constructed on an immense terrace, the breathtaking palace complex was one of the most impressive sights in Persia, and now even in its ruined state it is a wonderful place. From Persepolis, you’ll move on to Naghsh-e Rostam, an ancient necropolis famous for its reliefs cut into the rock. Our final stop will be at Pasargadae, another UNSECO World Heritage Site. Cyrus the Great built it as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire and it’s also where you’ll encounter his tomb. Overnight in Isfahan. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 4
Visit to the Qeysarieh Bazaar
Visit to the Naghshe Jahan Square Complex
Isfahan was abandoned as a capital in the 18th century when the seat of government shifted to Tehran. This meant that much of the historic buildings were left intact and today, the city is a delight for its Persian architecture. Your included sightseeing tour takes you to the Naghshe Jahan Square Complex, where you’ll find the Imam Mosque, Ali Qapu and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. There’ll be time to rummage in the Qeysarieh Bazaar, renowned for carpets and kilims. Round off the day with visits to Chelel Sotun Palace and the Si-o Se pol and Khajou bridges before returning to the hotel to relax. Overnight in Isfahan. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Abyaneh - Kashan
Day 5
Transfer by car / minibus: Isfahan - Kashan
Stop at the 16th century Fin Garden
Visit to the 19th century Boroujerdi House
Trip to Abyaneh
Today we set off for Kashan, stopping off en route at Abyaneh. This place is nicknamed the “red village” on account of its rich red soil and homes of a similar colour. Its narrow alleyways straggle up the lower flanks of Karkas Mountain. From a distance, it’s a pictureseque sight and close up you’ll enjoy learning about its clay architecture and living traditions. In Kashan, you’ll pay a visit to the 19th century Boroujerdi House. It was built by an architect for his bride, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, and is now a museum. Finally, you’ll stop at the 16th century Fin Garden, the oldest surviving garden in Iran. It’s notorious as the site of the murder of Amir Kabir, the Qajarid chancellor, taken out by an assassin sent by King Nasereddin Shah in 1852. Overnight in Kashan. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Tehran
Day 6
Transfer by car / minibus: Kashan - Tehran
City tour around Tehran
Our tour continues today to the Iranian capital Tehran. Occupying a spectacular location on the lower slopes of the Alborz Mountains, this backdrop of snow-capped peaks frames many a panoramic view in the city. You’ll enjoy a visit to Niaravan Palace, a historical complex which is also home to the Sahebqraniyeh Palace, and the Tajrish Bazaar and Square, in this, Iran’s most liberal and secular city. Overnight in Tehran. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Tabriz
Day 7
Visit to Golestan Palace
Visit to the archaeological section of the National Museum
Domestic flight: Tehran - Tabriz
You’ll tackle more of Tehran’s major sights today, beginning with Golestan Palace. This walled palace complex dates from the Qajar period and forms one of the oldest groups of buildings in the country. It was once, in the 18th century, the seat of government, but now it’s more famous as the source of inspiration for countless Iranian artists and architects who come to marvel at its lavish interiors and stylish exteriors. Also on the itinerary today is the archaeological section of the National Museum and also a visit to the Crown Jewels Museum. You’ll round off the day with a flight to Tabriz, in the north west of the country. Overnight in Tabriz. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Jolfa
Day 8
Tabriz city tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Tabriz - Jolfa
Trip to the Armenian St Stephen's monastery
This morning your sightseeing programme includes some of the highlights of Tabriz, located on the ancient Silk Road. You’ll pay a visit to the Azerbaijan Museum to learn a little of the city’s archaeology and history before making your way to the Blue Mosque. Dating from the 15th century but largely rebuilt, the turquoise mosaics on its entrance archway are original. El-Goli Park completes the itinerary in Tabriz, and then we transfer to Jolfa. We’ll squeeze in a trip to the Armenian St Stephen’s monastery, dramatically sited in a deep canyon, before checking into our hotel. Overnight in Jolfa. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Armenia border - Goris
Day 9
Transfer by car / minibus: Jolfa - Nordooz
Transfer by car / minibus: Nordooz - Goris
This morning we set off by car for the Armenian border, crossing at Nordooz. Your driver will assist with any customs and immigration formalities and you’ll cross over to Meghry on the Armenian side of the border to meet your new guide. Setting out for Goris, you’ll make your way along a beautiful valley alongside a stream to the cave village of Khndzoresk. Explore the caves and rock formations before continuing on to Goris where you’ll spend the night. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Tatev - Noravank - Khor Virap - Yerevan
Day 10
Transfer by car / minibus: Goris - Tatev
Tatev Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Tatev - Noravank
Noravank Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Noravank - Areni
Wine Tasting
Transfer by car / minibus: Areni - Khor Virap
Khor Virap Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Khor Virap - Yerevan
Armenia is the world’s oldest Christian nation and today you’ll witness some of its most spectacular monasteries. Begin with Tatev, reached by one of the world’s longest cable cars, the Wings of Tatev, affording breathtaking views stretching for miles across the valley. Afterwards, it’s on to the 12th century Noravank Monastery. Accessed along a steep-sided canyon, it’s worth climbing the vertiginous steps across the front of the chapel for the incredible views back along the valley as seen from its upper storey. A stop has been arranged at Areni winery; the wines and fruit-based spirits make excellent souvenirs. Our final stop is at Khor Virap monastery, from which you can see Mount Ararat across the border in Turkey. You’ll spend the night in Yerevan, the Armenian capital. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 11
Visit to Matenadaran Library
Yerevan City Tour
Today’s included sightseeing comprises a city tour of the Armenian capital. Imposing Republic Square is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks. You’ll also pay a visit to the manuscript museum known as the Matenadaran. Just outside the city centre you’ll find the poignant and moving Genocide Museum, which graphically explains the events of more than a century ago. Another key part of the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex is the obelisk and eternal flame, its simplicity creating a serene environment for contemplation. Later, you’ll visit the Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, the spiritual and administrative heart of the Armenian Church. The tour will continue to the ruins of the glorious 7th century Zvartnots Cathedral before returning to the city for another overnight stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Garni - Geghard - Yerevan
Day 12
Visit to Yerevan's History Museum
Transfer by car / minibus: Yerevan - Garni
Pagan Temple of Garni Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Garni - Geghard
Geghard Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Geghard - Yerevan
After a visit to Yerevan’s History Museum, you’ll make your way out of town to the Pagan Temple of Garni. Dating from the 1st century, it’s a contrast to the many Christian monasteries scattered across the countryside. Nearby is the UNESCO-listed Geghard monastery, set right into the towering cliffs of the Azat River gorge. Overnight in Yerevan this evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Sevan - Dilijan - Haghpat
Day 13
Transfer by car / minibus: Yerevan - Sevan
Sevanavank Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Sevan - Dilijan
Dilijan City Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Dilijan - Haghpat
Haghpat Monastery Guided Tour
Today we’ll leave Yerevan bound for Lake Sevan, the pearl of Armenia. On a hilltop overlooking the lake you’ll encounter the delightful Sevanavank Monastery, occupying one of the most captivating locations of all Armenia’s monasteries. The church is impressive, its graveyard littered with engraved standing stones known as khachkars. Moving on, you’ll travel to Dilijan, a resort and spa town. Last of all, you’ll visit Haghpat Monastery, one of the largest religious and cultural centres of mediaeval Armenia. The holes you’ll see in its floors were used to store wine. Tonight your accommodation is in Haghpat. (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Sanahin - Goshavank - Yerevan
Day 14
Transfer by car / minibus: Haghpat - Sanahin
Sanahin Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Sanahin - Goshavank
Goshavank Monastery Guided Tour
Transfer by car / minibus: Goshavank - Yerevan
Your itinerary makes a loop back towards Yerevan today. From Haghpat, you’ll head to Sanahin Monastery. Twinned with Haghpat, Sanahin’s name translates as “older than that one”. The cavernous interior features plenty of tombstones on the floor. Step on them: it’s commonly held that if you do, you’re freeing the dead of their sins. Look to see the curtain across the main body of the church, which marks that it still functions as a place of worship. Your tour will conclude with a visit to Goshavank monastery before returning to spend the final night in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 15
Transfer from the hotel to the airport
Today marks the end of your tour. We trust that Iran and Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and long history have made for an interesting and memorable visit. (Breakfast)
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Dates and prices
Please read notes at the bottom of the table to learn more about the meaning of each pricing section
Travel package
Year of travel
2024
Travel dates Excluding flights Single / Solo supplement Book
03/26/2024 - 04/09/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
04/02/2024 - 04/16/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
04/09/2024 - 04/23/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
04/16/2024 - 04/30/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
04/23/2024 - 05/07/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
04/30/2024 - 05/14/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
05/07/2024 - 05/21/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
05/14/2024 - 05/28/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
05/21/2024 - 06/04/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
05/28/2024 - 06/11/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
06/04/2024 - 06/18/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
06/11/2024 - 06/25/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
06/18/2024 - 07/02/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
06/25/2024 - 07/09/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
07/02/2024 - 07/16/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
07/09/2024 - 07/23/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
07/16/2024 - 07/30/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
07/23/2024 - 08/06/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
07/30/2024 - 08/13/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
08/06/2024 - 08/20/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
08/13/2024 - 08/27/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
08/20/2024 - 09/03/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
08/27/2024 - 09/10/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
09/03/2024 - 09/17/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
09/10/2024 - 09/24/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
09/17/2024 - 10/01/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
09/24/2024 - 10/08/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
10/01/2024 - 10/15/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
10/08/2024 - 10/22/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
10/15/2024 - 10/29/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
10/22/2024 - 11/05/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
10/29/2024 - 11/12/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
11/05/2024 - 11/19/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
11/12/2024 - 11/26/2024 $2,795 $325 / $1,395 book now
Travel dates Excluding flights Single / Solo supplement Book
03/26/2024 - 04/09/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
04/02/2024 - 04/16/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
04/09/2024 - 04/23/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
04/16/2024 - 04/30/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
04/23/2024 - 05/07/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
04/30/2024 - 05/14/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
05/07/2024 - 05/21/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
05/14/2024 - 05/28/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
05/21/2024 - 06/04/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
05/28/2024 - 06/11/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
06/04/2024 - 06/18/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
06/11/2024 - 06/25/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
06/18/2024 - 07/02/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
06/25/2024 - 07/09/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
07/02/2024 - 07/16/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
07/09/2024 - 07/23/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
07/16/2024 - 07/30/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
07/23/2024 - 08/06/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
07/30/2024 - 08/13/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
08/06/2024 - 08/20/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
08/13/2024 - 08/27/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
08/20/2024 - 09/03/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
08/27/2024 - 09/10/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
09/03/2024 - 09/17/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
09/10/2024 - 09/24/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
09/17/2024 - 10/01/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
09/24/2024 - 10/08/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
10/01/2024 - 10/15/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
10/08/2024 - 10/22/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
10/15/2024 - 10/29/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
10/22/2024 - 11/05/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
10/29/2024 - 11/12/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
11/05/2024 - 11/19/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now
11/12/2024 - 11/26/2024 $3,295 $495 / $1,395 book now

Note on pricing:

  1. All prices are per person, in US dollars. All included services are listed in the tour dossier and the section "Included" in the tour description.
  2. Price "Excluding flight" does not cover airfare, you are free to book your own flights. Alternatively we can quote for flights from any international airport.
  3. Single supplement goes towards single room accommodation.
  4. 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.
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We are very happy to have served thousands of happy customers who travelled with us.
The tour guides were very knowledgeable and friendly! Keep up the good work! We had a very pleasant experience. Thank you!
The whole experience was good, the programme was interesting and the guides were good or very good. We were met at each point as per the programme. Booking, visa support, assistance from your office were all excellent.
It was a fantastic trip. Your representatives were helpful knowledge and very nice from start to finish.
Important to get the two standard trips as offered, back to back plus bespoke extras of travel, transfers and hotel plus flights.
We've just returned from my trip and would like to say thank you for a marvellous experience. From the visa application through to the final airport transfer the tour was very well organised. Thank you again for a great trip.
Especially good- reliability, guides, flawless organisation, promptness of all staff
The transfers were excellent, the accommodation was superb, we had a wonderful time, thank you.
Fantastic knowledge of the guides, made the trip much more enjoyable.

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