Discover Armenia

Discover Armenia

9 days from £1925 per person

This tour embraces much of the variety of this fascinating country, the first state to embrace Christianity in 310 AD. Little visited by tourists, Armenia has a long history, distinct culture and spectacular natural scenery. Most of the country's heritage of medieval churches and monasteries survived the years of communist rule and today they are not only well cared for but are also extremely well preserved with many situated in stunningly scenic locations.

Route: Yerevan – Goris – Lake Sevan – Yerevan

Itinerary Highlights

Yerevan is an intriguing city that has a fascinating deep-rooted history, grand Soviet-era architecture and is charmed by its modern touches and European influences.

9th century Tatev Monastery is located on a plateau in south eastern Armenia. In the 14th century the university here contributed to the advancement of science, religion and philosophy.

Lake Sevan is the largest body of water in Armenia. It has significant economic, cultural and recreational value. A medieval monastery is located on the lake’s only island.

Itinerary: Discover Armenia

Day 1 London to Yerevan

Fly with Air France to Yerevan via Paris. (N)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Yerevan

Today leave your hotel and visit the State History Museum, National Art Gallery which is home to many fine European works, the Matenadaran manuscript collection and the Vernissage crafts market. (B)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 Yerevan

Today attend a sung service at Echmiadzin – centre of the Armenian Church – which is set against marvellous views of Mount Ararat and Mount Aragats. (B)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 Yerevan to Goris via Ararat – 238kms

Today drive through the plains below Ararat to visit Khor Virap Monastery, then proceed deeper into the mountains visiting an intricately carved monastery of Noravank. Continue on to explore Tatev Monastery, a UNESCO site, and one which provides a spectacular view of mountain ranges. Drive down through the valley to see the Devil’s Bridge before continuing onto Goris. (B/D)

Accommodation in Goris: Mina Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Goris to Lake Sevan – 254kms

This morning visit Karahunj which, much like Stonehenge, is considered to be some form of prehistoric observatory. Continue onto the 14th century Selim caravanserai that sits astride the Silk Road before driving onto Lake Sevan. (B/D)

Accommodation in Lake Sevan: Blue Sevan Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Lake Sevan to Yerevan via Alaverdi – 294kms

This morning drive around the lake taking in two medieval churches before entering the wooded valleys of the lower Caucasus for a visit to the idyllically situated town of Dilijan. Here stroll through the pretty streets, one of which still preserves 19th Century buildings complete with craftsmen’s studios. Afterwards continue onto Alaverdi and into the mountains visiting the dramatically situated Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries – both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Return to Yerevan. (B)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 Yerevan

Today explore the unspoilt mountains of the North West, visiting both Amberd Fortress which sits at 2,300 metres and is stunning in the spring when the area is covered in wild flowers. Later visit the cliff-top Saghmosavank medieval Monastery before returning to Yerevan. (B)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 Yerevan – Visit Garni and Geghard

Drive out to Garni with a restored temple from the 1st Century AD and to Geghard Monastery which is part-built and also part-carved from the rock. (B/L)

Accommodation in Yerevan: Aviatrans Hotel (or similar)

Day 9 Yerevan to London

Depart Yerevan on the Air France flight to London Heathrow via Paris. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Private car and driver
Sightseeing with an accompanying English speaking guide
Hotel accommodation and taxes

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

9 days from £1925 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Discover Armenia

What To Do Next?

What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price