en
- Boutique
- 15-day trip
- From €3,965 per person
Georgia and Armenia trip | Combination trip unknown Georgia and Armenia
Georgia and Armenia are countries that remain relatively undiscovered, boasting a rich cultural heritage. During this 15-day tour of Georgia and Armenia, you’ll visit the countries’ highlights as well as a few hidden gems. A guide will accompany you on the trip. Begin your journey in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. Stroll through this beautiful city and take the cable car up to Mtatsminda Mountain. Admire the authentic sights such as the Gergeti Trinity Church and Ananuri Fort. During this trip, you’ll also discover Georgian cuisine through various masterclasses, for example in Stepantsminda with a local family. Travel through the Trusco Gorge and visit Georgia’s Easter Island. Go wine tasting in the Kakheti region, visit Gurjaani, historic Sighnaghi and Bodbe Monastery.
Cross the border into Armenia and stay in the village of Dilijian. The following day, visit Lake Sevan and the village of Tsaghkunk, where you’ll stay in a charming guesthouse. Travel on to Yerevan, where modernity blends with antiquity. Take a city tour and learn about the country’s history at the Genocide Memorial and the Museum of Armenian History. Marvel at the religious centre of Echmiadzin and visit the Machanents Creative Centre and the ruins of the Zvartnots Temple. Travel on for a tour of remarkable cave monasteries such as the Miracle Cave and Geghard, as well as stunning temples such as Garni. Immerse yourself in Armenian culture during a masterclass on making lavash. Finally, round off your trip with a visit to Armenia’s wine region to sample wine and take part in an Armenian cookery workshop. A journey brimming with history, culinary experiences, culture and stunning natural beauty!
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 – 2 Arrival in Tbilisi and city tour
- Day 3 Fl avour and tradition in the heart of the Kakheti wine region
- Day 4 From Telavi’s flavours to Stepantsminda’s peaks
- Day 5 Tour of Stepantsminda and the surrounding area
- Day 6 Trip to Kartli and back to Tbilisi
- Day 7 Crossing the border into Armenia
- Day 8 From Lake Sevan to authentic Goris
- Day 9 Caves, monasteries and cable cars: on the way to Yerevan
- Day 10 City tour of Yerevan and visit to Garni & Geghard
- Day 11 Echmiadzin and Zvartnots: Religious Heritage and UNESCO Treasures
- Day 12 Gyumri City Tour: Architecture and Culture
- Day 13 – 14 Return journey to Tbilisi
- Day 15 End of your trip
- Day 16 Arrival
Arrival in Tbilisi and city tour
You’ll arrive in beautiful Georgia at Tbilisi Airport. A private transfer will take you to your hotel here, where you’ll be staying for the next few nights.
During your stay, a private city tour of Tbilisi, Georgia’s charming capital, is on the itinerary. The Georgian National Museum is an ideal place to begin this tour and explore Georgian art. The museum currently houses a unique collection of natural and human history, including animal remains dating back 40 million years. You will then travel on to the historic Metekhi district to explore the Catholic church built in the 13th century. The next spiritual sight is the only mosque still in use in Tbilisi, the Jumah Mosque, where Sunni and Shia Muslims pray side by side. The tour continues to Sioni Cathedral, named after Mount Zion in Jerusalem. Inside the cathedral stands the Vine Cross of Saint Nino, the most important symbol of the Georgian Orthodox Church. Your next stop is Anchiskhati Church, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, built in the 6th century. The day concludes with a trip up Mtatsminda Mountain by cable car.
Inclusief:
- Meet & greet on arrival
- English-speaking guide
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Private city tour of Tbilisi and cable car ride to Mtatsminda Mountain
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Exclusief:
- International flight
Flavour and tradition in the heart of the Kakheti wine region
In the morning, you will be collected by your private driver and driven to the Kakheti region. This region is best known as a wine-growing area. First, you will visit the beautiful, small 18th-century town of Sighnaghi, which will impress you with its ancient walls and small houses with tiled roofs and ornate balconies. From here, you can enjoy the picturesque views of the Alazani Valley and the mountains of the Greater Caucasus. For lunch, you’ll drive to a local farmhouse where you’ll enjoy home-cooked dishes. Here, you’ll also take part in a cookery class where you’ll see how Georgian bread is baked and have a go at making Churchkhela, a traditional dessert made with grape juice and walnuts.
Finally, you’ll drive to the Gremi complex. Next, near Telavi, visit a typical Georgian wine cellar and taste unique Georgian organic wines produced according to the ancient tradition in kvevri – Georgian farmers have used this method of winemaking for centuries. This method of winemaking is listed as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Finally, you’ll drive to Telavi, where you’ll check in and have the rest of the evening free.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, with an English-speaking guide
- Lunch including a cookery class
- Wine tasting
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
From the flavours of Telavi to the peaks of Stepantsminda
To immerse yourself in the local culture, a visit to the Telavi market is a must. This lively market offers an insight into the daily life of the region’s inhabitants, where you can discover a colourful array of freshly picked fruit and vegetables, local sweets and herbs – perfect for preparing a variety of Georgian dishes.
You’ll continue your journey to visit the remarkable Alaverdi Cathedral (11th century) and sample Matsoni, a traditional Georgian yoghurt. You’ll then head north through the country, via Tianeti. You’ll take the famous ‘Military Highway’, allowing you to admire the landscapes with the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Along the way, you’ll visit the Ananuri architectural complex, dating from the 16th–17th centuries. After crossing the Cross Pass at an altitude of 2,395 metres, you will arrive in Stepantsminda.
Inclusief:
- Visit to Telavi Market
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, with an English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Tour of Stepantsminda and the surrounding area
A visit to Stepantsminda is not complete without seeing the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, one of Georgia’s most photographed spots. Situated at an altitude of 2,170 metres, against the backdrop of the imposing Greater Caucasus Mountains, this church symbolises the spiritual heart of the country. Surrounded by green slopes full of mountain flowers and steep peaks, this view leaves an unforgettable impression. In the morning, you’ll drive up to the church via picturesque valleys and densely wooded mountain roads. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the snow- and ice-covered summit of the mighty Mount Kazbegi, which, at 5,047 metres, is one of the highest peaks in the region.
After your visit to Gergeti, you’ll continue by 4WD to the remote Truso Valley. Here, the landscape changes dramatically. As you drive deeper into the valley, you’ll discover a raw and rugged part of the Caucasus: steep cliffs coloured by mineral water, quiet mountain villages and an almost mystical atmosphere. Mount Kazbegi looms into view once more, this time from a different, equally impressive perspective.
Later in the day, you’ll return to Stepantsminda. Here, you’ll gain an insight into local life: you’ll see how traditional Georgian felt is made and sample artisanal jams made from local ingredients.
Inclusief:
- Tour of Stepantsminda and the Truso Valley, including an English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Trip to Kartli and back to Tbilisi
In the morning, you’ll leave the majestic Caucasus Mountains and travel south to the Kartli region, the historical and cultural heart of Georgia. Your first stop is Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin. Here, you’ll make a short photo stop at the Stalin Museum and the house where he was born, an intriguing place that offers a tangible glimpse into the past.
You will then travel further back in time with a visit to Uplistsikhe, a remarkable cave city dating back to the 1st millennium BC. For centuries, this ancient trading settlement served as a major hub for caravans from all corners of the world. You’ll walk through impressive structures carved out of the rock, including ceremonial halls, an ancient theatre, a pharmacy and even a wine cellar – all traces of a flourishing civilisation.
At the end of the day, you’ll return to Tbilisi, where you’ll spend one more night.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, with an English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Across the border to Armenia
In the morning, you will be taken to the Georgian–Armenian border, where you will meet your Armenian guide and begin your Armenian adventure. This day is dedicated to exploring one of the most unique places in Armenia. In the heart of the Lori region lies a multifunctional complex called ANGAR. The grounds of the ANGAR complex are remarkable for their abundance of topographical and infrastructural features: a mountain river, orchards and an apiary. The creative, loft-style building combines various spaces: a tasting room, a relaxation area, a dining area and an art space.
After enjoying your lunch, the journey continues to Dilijan, a lush town renowned as a spa resort. A stroll through the historic quarter allows you to savour the atmosphere of the old town as it was in the 19th century. The imaginatively carved balconies, so characteristic of 19th-century Dilijan, showcase the region’s historic love of fine woodwork. Dilijan is known as the ‘Armenian Switzerland’ and, as you wander through this town, you’ll certainly understand why. You’ll be spending the night in this authentic town.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the border crossing
- Meet and greet with a local representative in Armenia
- Day trip to ANGAR including lunch
- Private transfer to your accommodation
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
From Lake Sevan to authentic Goris
On this day, you will visit the beautiful Lake Sevan, also known as the ‘blue pearl’ of Armenia and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres above sea level. Here, you will visit Sevanavank Monastery, founded in 874 by Princess Mariam. You will also visit the medieval Hayravank Monastery, dating from the 9th to the 12th centuries, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views.
After visiting these exceptional monasteries, you will be served lunch at a local restaurant nearby. Your next destination is the charming village of Goris. You will then be taken to your accommodation, where you will have dinner this evening.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, an English-speaking guide and lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast and dinner
Caves, monasteries and cable cars: on the way to Yerevan
After breakfast, you’ll set off on an impressive exploration of Goris, a charming town with around 20,000 inhabitants, picturesquely situated between high mountains and rolling green hills. The town is renowned for its unique architecture and mysterious charm, partly thanks to the numerous cave dwellings that were once inhabited by people. You will visit the cave village of Khndzoresk, a fascinating place full of traces of ancient civilisations. The cave structures, carved by human hands into the rock faces, bear witness to an intriguing way of life in times gone by.
You will then travel on to Tatev Monastery, a 10th-century architectural masterpiece that appears to balance spectacularly on a cliff. If you wish, you can reach the monastery via the ‘Wings of Tatev’, the world’s longest cable car, which was built in 2010 as part of the Tatev Revival Project. In the afternoon, you will continue your journey to Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia. This city, the cultural heart of the country, combines a modern energy with a deep-rooted history that can still be felt in its streets and monuments.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, with an English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast and dinner
Yerevan City Tour and Visit to Garni & Geghard
You’ll start the day with a city walk through Yerevan, Armenia’s bustling capital where tradition and modernity come together. You’ll visit Republic Square, the impressive Cascade Park with views over the city, and the ‘Mother Armenia’ monument. You’ll also see the Opera House, Freedom Square with its cosy terraces, and Swan Lake.
You will then head to the village of Garni, famous for its well-preserved 1st-century Hellenistic temple dedicated to the sun god Mithra. During lunch in a local home, you’ll learn how to bake traditional Armenian lavash bread in an underground oven, the ‘tonir’. Afterwards, you’ll visit the nearby Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a medieval complex partly carved out of the rock, famous for the relic of the Spear of Christ. You’ll then drive back to Yerevan.
Inclusief:
- Yerevan city tour including admission fees and lunch
- Tour to the Azar River and Geghard Cave Monastery
- Visit to the Garni Temple and a masterclass in making Armenian bread
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots: Religious Heritage and UNESCO Treasures
You will travel to Echmiadzin, the religious centre for Armenians worldwide. En route, you will visit St Hripsime’s Church, named after a Christian nun who fled to Armenia to escape the Roman emperor. In Echmiadzin, the first official Armenian Christian cathedral was founded in the first half of the 4th century and reconstructed in later centuries. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also stop at the Machanents Creative Centre. After lunch, you will see the ruins of the 7th-century Zvartnots Temple (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which was a marvel of its time. Unfortunately, like most other ancient Armenian temples, Zvartnots has survived only as ruins since it was completely destroyed by a powerful earthquake in the 10th century. But even the ruins of this temple give us a sense of its rare and majestic beauty.
You will be staying in Gyumri. Gyumri is Armenia’s second-largest city and is renowned for its rich history, unique architecture and vibrant cultural atmosphere. Explore the charming old town with its colourful houses and cosy squares. The city has a distinctive artistic atmosphere thanks to the many artists, galleries and craftspeople who live here.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your accommodation, including the stops mentioned, an English-speaking guide and lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Gyumri City Tour: Architecture and Culture
Discover the unique 18th- and 19th-century architecture and local cuisine of Gyumri during a fascinating walking tour. You’ll meet the hospitable locals and explore the historic atmosphere and way of life of the people of Gyumri, including the birthplace of George Ivanovich Gurdjieff. Visit important religious buildings and the home of a famous blacksmith with an impressive collection of traditional Gyumri ironwork. The programme also includes a visit to the Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life, where you can admire authentic furniture, works of art and handicrafts from the late 19th century. Finally, you’ll discover the Black Fortress, also known as ‘Sev Berd’, one of the city’s most striking historical landmarks.
Inclusief:
- City tour of Gyumri including an English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Hotel Khokhobi Old Tbilisi
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which…
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which have a balcony.
Your stay: 2 nights
Holiday Inn Telavi
Holiday Inn Telavi is ideally situated in the heart of Georgia’s leading wine region, just a 1.3-hour drive from Tbilisi. The comfortable rooms and suites feature cosy beds with top-quality cotton bed linen, air conditioning, satellite TV, complimentary hot drinks and Wi-Fi. The suites offer a stunning…
Holiday Inn Telavi is ideally situated in the heart of Georgia’s leading wine region, just a 1.3-hour drive from Tbilisi. The comfortable rooms and suites feature cosy beds with top-quality cotton bed linen, air conditioning, satellite TV, complimentary hot drinks and Wi-Fi. The suites offer stunning views over the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains, as well as a separate lounge area. The hotel offers guests free access to the gym and the rooftop swimming pool. Other facilities include a restaurant, a cocktail lounge, a champagne bar and a spa. Right next to the hotel stands the palace of King Erekle II and Batonis Tsikhe Castle, which served as the residence of the Kakhetian kings between the 17th and 18th centuries.
Your stay: 1 night
Alpine Lounge
Situated just outside the town of Kazbegi, this lovely hotel is perched on a hill in Stepandsminda with stunning views of Mount Kazbegi. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with a balcony and a comfortable bed. The hotel features a large, sunny terrace and a ground-floor restaurant serving an excellent breakfast featuring local…
Situated just outside the town of Kazbegi, this lovely hotel is perched on a hill in Stepandsminda with stunning views of Mount Kazbegi. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with a balcony and a comfortable bed. The hotel features a large, sunny terrace and a ground-floor restaurant serving an excellent breakfast featuring local produce; it’s also a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner.
Your stay: 2 nights
Hotel Khokhobi Old Tbilisi
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which…
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which have a balcony.
Your stay: 1 night
Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex
The Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex is situated in Dilijan, Armenia. Local attractions include the Haghartsin Monastery, Lake Parz and Dilijan National Park. The hotel comprises two classic suites and 12 guest rooms. The suites feature a separate lounge area and a balcony with a…
The Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex is located in Dilijan, Armenia. Local attractions include the Haghartsin Monastery, Parz Lake and Dilidjan National Park. The hotel consists of two classic suites and 12 guest rooms. The suites have a separate lounge area and a balcony with panoramic views of the old part of Dilidzjan and the forests of the Tavush region. Armenian dishes can be enjoyed at the hotel's chic restaurant. The hotel also features a mineral and silver shop, a ceramics shop, a woodwork shop, craft shops, souvenir shops, a museum and an art gallery.
Your stay: 1 night
Goris Hotel
Goris Hotel is situated in the town of Goris, Armenia, and boasts a prime location close to a variety of sights, attractions, restaurants and leisure areas. The hotel offers numerous rooms, all of which are equipped with comfortable facilities.
Furthermore, the hotel offers a variety of…
Goris Hotel is situated in the town of Goris, Armenia, and boasts a prime location close to a variety of sights, attractions, restaurants and leisure areas. The hotel offers numerous rooms, all of which are equipped with comfortable facilities.
The hotel also offers a variety of facilities and services, including on-site parking, Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and cosy communal areas. Guests can enjoy a selection of local dishes in a comfortable setting in the hotel restaurant or have a drink at “Al Pari”.
Your stay: 1 night
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel
The Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel is located in the centre of Yerevan, near the famous Vernisage, Yerevan's craft and souvenir market. Accommodation consists of 84 spacious rooms, each equipped with air conditioning. You can enjoy dinner at the on-site restaurant, unwind with a refreshing...
The Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel is located in the centre of Yerevan, near the famous Vernisage, Yerevan's craft and souvenir market. Accommodation consists of 84 spacious rooms, each equipped with air conditioning. You can enjoy dinner at the in-house restaurant, unwind with a refreshing drink at the bar or stay and take advantage of room service. Additional amenities include a 24-hour reception, a business centre, a café and an outdoor swimming pool. Massage services and car rental are also available.
Your stay: 2 nights
Gyumri Hotel
Located in the vibrant Gyumri district, Gyumri Hotel offers easy access to numerous attractions, restaurants and sights. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with comfortable beds, separate seating areas and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Your stay: 2 nights
Hotel Khokhobi Old Tbilisi
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which…
Hotel Khokhobi is situated in the heart of Tbilisi, right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. The hotel is surrounded by narrow streets lined with historic buildings, churches, mosques, a fortress and small houses with beautiful, colourful balconies. The hotel features a terrace and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, some of which have a balcony.
Your stay: 2 nights
Destinations
Tbilisi
Georgia's capital: Tbilisi, located in the central-eastern part of Georgia, is known for its diverse architecture, vibrant art and culture and delectable cuisine. The city's complicated Persian and Russian history expresses itself through its Eastern Orthodox churches, ornate Art Nouveau buildings and Soviet modernist structures. The city is also home to Narikala, a reconstructed 4th-century fortress, and Kartlis Deda, an iconic statue of the 'Mother of Georgia'. With everything from contemporary museums to funky bars and clubs, the city's art, culture and lifestyle will keep you entertained. The fantastic traditional and international cuisine attracts foodies from near and far. A city where you will enjoy culinary dishes!
Georgia
Georgia, situated at the crossroads of Europe and the East, is a small country of immense natural beauty. The majestic Caucasus Mountains stretch from the Caspian Sea to the Black Sea coast, encompassing fertile valleys, flower-strewn meadows and snow-capped peaks along the way. The capital, Tbilisi, boasts a picturesque old town and a diverse cultural heritage – here you’ll find mosques alongside Victorian villas, ancient churches and quaint terraced houses. To the north-west of the city lie the hilltop Jvari Monastery and the ancient capital, Mtskheta – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This ancient city is home to a medieval church where Christianity was officially adopted as the country’s religion in 337 AD.
Further north lies the country’s top attraction – the Caucasus Mountains – with their network of stunning hiking trails. Highlights include Kazbegi, with a peak reaching 5,000 metres, and the lush, remote regions of Tusheti and Svaneti. Georgia also boasts fascinating cultural and archaeological attractions, such as a museum dedicated to its most famous son – Stalin – and ancient cave cities where religious minority groups took refuge to escape persecution. And foodies are in for a treat here – Georgian cuisine and wine are fantastic!
Telavi
Telavi, ideally situated in the vineyard-dotted Alazani Valley, is a historic town at the foot of the Tsiv-Gombori Mountains in the famous Kakheti wine region of Georgia. Discerning travellers can explore the area’s many wineries and immerse themselves in the country’s rich heritage. Batonis Tsikhe Castle is a must-see, featuring two churches, the ruins of a royal bathhouse, and the former residence of the Kakhetian kings between the 17th and 18th centuries, the Giorgi Chubinashvili Telavi State History and Ethnography Museum, housed in the palace of King Erekle II. History enthusiasts can enjoy a visit to the ancient Orthodox church of Shuamta, the new church of Shuamta, the Ikalto monastery complex and Alaverdi Monastery, all of which date back to the Middle Ages.
Kakheti
Best known for its winemaking and a popular wine region in Georgia, the Kakheti region was formed in the 1990s and is also known for its picturesque landscapes with undulating mountainous terrain. Visitors can look forward to a range of wonderful activities, including exploring Telavi, the region's capital; taste the local variety of wines and explore the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the variety of delicious Georgian cuisine. Must-see places include the romantic town of Sighnaghi, a fortified town full of character; Gremi, a picturesque brick citadel; and Tsinandali, the estate of the Georgian noble house Chavchavadze.
Stepantsminda
The small town of Stepantsminda is situated in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region in north-eastern Georgia. Stunning mountains surround this charming town, which serves as an excellent base from which to explore the incredibly picturesque, snow-capped mountains of the Caucasus. Highlights include: hiking to the Gergeti Glacier, rafting on the Snotskali River, kayaking on the Tergi River, and visiting the waterfalls at Gveleti and Arsha-Pansheti. Visitors can also enjoy the incredibly beautiful views, visit the famous silhouette of the Tsminda Sameba Church on the hilltop and explore the towering snow-capped peak of Mount Kazbek. Don’t miss a visit to the enchanting Dariali Gorge and take a look at Dariali Monastery. Other popular activities include hiking, mountain biking and climbing.
Dilijan
The town of Dilijan is situated in northern Armenia and is renowned for its spas and traditional craft workshops. The town is often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Armenia’ as it is surrounded by the lush forests of Dilijan National Park, creating a picturesque setting. The town has served as a peaceful retreat for artists, composers, writers and filmmakers, and today it is a thriving tourist hub. Visitors can look forward to exploring a number of fascinating attractions, including the Geological Museum and the Art Gallery, which showcase a collection of archaeological treasures and international art. Another must-see is the Haghartsin Monastery in the north, with its stone churches, and the Goshavank Monastery in the east. Enjoy the spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and alpine-covered slopes, and admire the charming architecture of the stone and timber buildings.
Tsamakaberd
Set in the north-western corner of Lake Sevan National Park, in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, and situated just north-east of Sevan town centre, Tsamakaberd is known for its beautiful scenery, idyllic lakeside resorts and interesting heritage architecture. History enthusiasts will delight in the chance to explore sites such as the historic district of Mashtotsner and the Sevanavank monument, founded in 874 when Armenia was striving to free itself from Arab rule. Once a strict monastery for monks from Etchmiadzin who had sinned, this intriguing building is adorned with gorgeous, intricate wall paintings and stands atop a green hill overlooking the lake. The town is also home to churches and a botanical garden. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the wider Sevan National Park and the chance to spot numerous waterbirds, fish and mammals such as wolves and jackals.
Armenia
Armenia is an entirely landlocked country situated between Asia and Europe. Its capital, Yerevan, is dotted with green, leafy spaces and steeped in history dating back 2,800 years. You can tour the city or visit the Historical Museum of Armenia to learn more about the country's ancient past, while the Armenian Genocide Museum provides a sobering insight into the tragic events of the Armenian Genocide. Outside the metropolitan area are shimmering lakes and mountains covered with alpine forests, waterfalls and ancient hilltop churches. Don't forget to take the world's longest cable car through the striking landscapes of the Vorotan Gorge to the cliff-top Tatev Monastery. Another destination you should definitely visit is Dilijan, with its emerald green hills and forests that have earned it the nickname of the 'Switzerland of Armenia'. Armenians pride themselves on their unique cuisine and a winemaking tradition dating back 600 years, so visitors can look forward to excellent food and vino!
Goris
Resting in River Goris Valley in Syunik province, the town of Goris is an important and scenic connection between Yerevan and Stepanakert or as a stop on the way to Karabakh or Iran. The rural town is home to a number of fascinating historical sites, such as the medieval Goris Caves, an abandoned settlement built into a collection of colourful pyramid-like rocks, known as the Stone Pyramid Forest, accessible only via a hanging bridge. Another highlight of the town is the production of beautiful hand-crocheted toys.
Yerevan
Yerevan, the country's central capital, is located in the centre of Armenia. Here, history and modernity create strong contrasts and offer something for everyone. Heritage attractions include the Matenadaran, filled with ancient texts on philosophy, art and history; the mysterious 17th-century old quarter of Kond, with its Persian, Islamic and Ottoman architecture; and the incredible History Museum, with spectacular displays of ancient items such as four-wheeled wooden chariots, bronze sculptures, symbolic artworks and weapons. Yerevan's exciting cuisine is a big draw: try the traditional 'dolmas', 'fatayah' and 'lavash'.
Gyumri
Gyumri is Armenia’s second-largest city and is situated in the north-western region of the country, approximately 126 km from Yerevan. The city is home to a remarkable array of historical attractions. The vast Vartanants Square, the memorial to the Battle of Avarayr, is surrounded by the striking town hall, the 19th-century church and the October Cinema Hall. The imposing black hilltop fortress offers spectacular views over the city, and several fascinating historic churches from different eras and denominations are scattered throughout the city. Numerous museums offer further insight into the area’s past. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Architecture and the Aslamazyan Sisters’ Museum, which is filled with beautiful paintings and ceramics. Delicious fresh produce, excellent handmade goods and locally produced cognac can be purchased at the Shuka market.
Georgia and Armenia trip | Combination trip unknown Georgia and Armenia
We offer the described trip from €3,965 per person.
The price is an estimate and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive properties
• All meals as specified in the itinerary
• All necessary private transfers as specified
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’
• Entrance fees to national parks for planned excursions
• Meet and greet on arrival
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Booking fees (worth €50)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Seat reservations on flights
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Personal expenses/tips
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)