Best of Armenia - 8 days (AM-02)

We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your centrally located hotel in the Armenian capital Yerevan. Overnight in Yerevan. (Dinner)

Yerevan, Armenia’s charming capital, seamlessly blends Soviet-era architecture with deep historical roots and a lively café culture. Your morning city tour will introduce you to the highlights, including the vibrant Singing Fountains of Republic Square, the bustling Vernissage market filled with antiques and crafts, and the revered Matenadaran, home to ancient manuscripts that chronicle Armenia's rich history. You'll also ascend the iconic Yerevan Cascade, where stunning panoramic views await. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Ararat in the distance. In the afternoon, visit the solemn Armenian Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to the victims of the 1915 genocide and an essential piece of Armenia’s heritage. The journey continues with a trip to Echmiadzin, home to the country’s oldest cathedral and the spiritual center of Armenia. Afterward, marvel at the ruins of the 7th-century Zvartnots Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking architecture. Return to Yerevan in the evening, where a delightful dinner in the heart of the city awaits. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 55 km / 34 ml.

Close to Yerevan, you’ll find two distinct yet equally captivating sights: the Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery. The 1st-century Garni Temple, an Ionic pagan temple, was built in the Greco-Roman style. Though it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century, it was reconstructed three centuries later. Before visiting the monastery, we’ll explore the stunning Garni Gorge, famed for its impressive basalt columns, often called the “Symphony of Stones.” Nearby is Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded by Gregory the Illuminator. Inside, you’ll see a unique architectural feature - a hole in the floor that opens to the church below - and there’s a sacred spring that holds special significance for Armenians. Before returning to Yerevan, we’ll enjoy a traditional lavash-baking experience. Try your freshly baked lavash with local cheese and herbs for a truly authentic taste of Armenia. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 75 km / 47 ml.

In the morning, the snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat across the border in Turkey looms large on the horizon, making a visit to Khor Virap Monastery particularly rewarding. Noravank Monastery is situated in an even more breathtaking location; as you approach along a narrow canyon, this stunning religious complex comes into view, renowned for its intricate carvings of Jesus with Peter and Paul. Steep steps lead up the outside of the church above its entrance, offering incredible views from the first floor for those willing to make the ascent. Our final stop today will be at Areni, where we’ll explore the famous Birds' Cave, known for its archaeological significance, before enjoying a local wine tasting at a popular winery. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 245 km / 153 ml.

We’ll take an excursion out of Yerevan to visit Armenia’s most beautiful lake. Sevanavank Monastery is located on a hilltop and from it there are breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. In the churchyard, take a look at the intricately carved stones, known as khatchkhars. From Sevan, we’ll drive to the nearby spa town of Dilijan, where we can visit the Geological Museum and Art Gallery which displays archaeological pieces and works of art. There are also plenty of craft workshops in town where you can pick up a souvenir or two. Overnight in Dilijan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 98 km / 61 ml.

The twin monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin face off across the Debed Canyon. Haghpat is a mediaeval complex largely completed in the 9th century. Grey stone is topped with terracotta roof tiles, but it’s the floor that’s most interesting - the holes in it were originally designed to keep wine cool. Sanahin is Haghpat’s twin; its name means “older than that one”. The floor of the cavernous interior is covered with tombstones, though it’s considered good luck to step on them as it’s thought doing so will free the dead of their sins. From there, we’ll head to the village of Lermontovo, named after the Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov, who’s often called "the poet of the Caucasus". Our final stop is at the 12th century monastery of Goshavank before we return to Dilijan for dinner. Overnight in Dilijan.(Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 238 km / 149 ml.

Today, we’ll retrace our steps and return to Yerevan. The drive takes about two hours from Dilijan so there’ll be plenty of time today to fit in some independent sightseeing. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 96 km / 60 ml.

After what’s been a fascinating and enjoyable week, it’s time to return to the airport in good time to catch your flight home. (Breakfast)