Echoes of Armenia: 8 Days Beneath the Ararat Sky

The day begins with a guided city tour of Yerevan, known as the “Pink City” due to the rose-colored tuff stone used in its buildings. Highlights include Republic Square, Mashtots Avenue, the Opera House, Cascade complex, and visits to the lively Gum Market and Vernissage craft bazaar. The day ends with a traditional Armenian dinner accompanied by folk music. Accommodating in Yerevan.

A journey east of Yerevan brings visitors to Garni Temple, a rare Hellenistic structure in the region. The tour continues through Garni Gorge to the “Symphony of Stones,” a striking natural basalt formation. Next is the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, partially carved into the cliffside. Lunch is hosted by a local family, including a hands-on Lavash bread-making experience. Return to Yerevan for the night. Accommodating in Yerevan.

This full-day trip explores Armenia’s southern landscapes. First is Khor Virap Monastery, offering iconic views of Mount Ararat and historical significance as the site of Saint Gregory’s imprisonment. The journey continues to Areni Cave, home to the world’s oldest known shoe and winery. A wine tasting at Momik Winery follows, along with a visit to the cliffside Noravank Monastery. Return to Yerevan in the evening. Accommodating in Yerevan.

Travel north to Lake Sevan, one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes, to admire its scenic beauty and visit medieval monasteries on the Sevan Peninsula. The journey continues to Noraduz Cemetery, renowned for its field of centuries-old khachkars (stone crosses). A stop at Mikayelyan family cheese farm offers a tasting of artisanal cheeses before heading to the lush spa town of Dilijan for a brief walking tour. Return to Yerevan for the night. Accommodating in Yerevan.

This day explores the spiritual heritage of Armenia. Begin with the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, a 7th-century architectural marvel, followed by visits to Saint Hripsime Church and the sacred Etchmiadzin Cathedral—spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The day ends with a rare cultural experience at the Yezidi Temple of Aknalich, the largest of its kind in the world. Overnight in Yerevan. Accommodating in Yerevan.

Travelers may spend the day at leisure in Yerevan or choose between two optional tours. One visits Gyumri, Alphabet Park, and the medieval Amberd Fortress; the other heads north to the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat, set in dramatic alpine landscapes. Both options return to Yerevan for the final night. Accommodating in Yerevan.

After breakfast, guests are transferred to Zvartnots International Airport for their departure, concluding an immersive journey through Armenia’s cultural and natural wonders.