Arrival

Yerevan - Arrive at Zvartnots International Airport and transfer to the hotel.

Yerevan - Maran Winery - Zvartnots - Ejmiatsin - Yerevan

Armenia - Maran Winery
Visit Maran Winery, whose origins trace back to 1828-30 when Sargis, son of Eynat, the Prince of Khoy, and his wife Maran returned from Persia to Vayots Dzor in Armenia. In 1860, Sargis’s son Harutyun expanded the vineyard and named it Marani in honor of his mother. He later built a semi-industrial wine press nearby. “Maran Winery” was established in 1992, producing its first wine from the Areni grape variety, named Noravank. This wine quickly gained recognition in the market of newly independent Armenia due to its unique design and high quality. In 1996, a collaboration with French colleagues began, leading to international wine exports. Over the years, the blend of Armenian tradition and modern technology has resulted in wines that continually improve and succeed.

Zvartnots Temple - After visiting Ejmiatsin, continue to Zvartnots Temple, built in the 7th century by Nerses the Builder. Although now in ruins, the site is rich in history and retains an aura of mystery and grandeur. Once a stunning architectural wonder, Zvartnots was renowned for its unique circular design and impressive dome. Exploring the ruins offers insight into the temple’s historical importance and the reasons for its abandonment. Both sites offer a profound understanding of Armenia’s rich religious heritage and showcase the architectural brilliance of their era. Visiting these sacred places allows appreciation of their enduring impact on Armenian culture and spirituality.

Yerevan City Tour

Yerevan - Begin the tour in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, known as the “pink city” due to the volcanic tuff stone used in its construction. Explore iconic landmarks such as Republic Square, the heart of Yerevan, surrounded by government buildings and the History Museum, and famous for its dancing fountains at night. Visit the Aram Khachaturian Opera and Ballet Theatre, a cultural hub for opera, ballet, and concerts. The Cascade Complex, a massive staircase connecting downtown with the Monument neighborhood, offers stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. Mother Armenia, a towering statue symbolizing peace and strength, provides a panoramic view of Yerevan.

ARARAT Museum - Ararat Brandy Factory - 12 euros per person
Visit the Ararat Brandy Factory, also known as the Yerevan Brandy Company, a historic and renowned Armenian brandy distillery in Yerevan. Founded in 1887, the distillery has a rich history of producing high-quality brandy, often referred to as Armenian cognac. The factory, with its historic buildings and cellars, is a destination for brandy enthusiasts and a place to learn about the rich tradition of Armenian brandy production.

Matenadaran - The Museum of Ancient Manuscripts - Matenadaran Museum - 5 euros per person
Visit the Manuscript Museum of Armenia, known as Matenadaran, where ancient Armenian and world manuscripts are preserved.

Yerevan - Sevan - Dilijan - Haghartsin - Lake Parz - Yerevan

Sevan - Drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest lakes in the world, known for its sweet and astonishingly blue water. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the beautiful lake and visit Sevanavank Monastery on Sevan Peninsula. There are two monasteries; one is destroyed, but the other remains. They were built in the Middle Ages, around the 10th century.

Dilijan - Continue to Dilijan. Walk along Sharamberyan Street to discover museums, souvenir markets, small shops, and more. Observe two traditional wooden houses with tiled roofs and balconies, typical examples of Dilijan architecture.

Haghartsin Monastery - Visit Haghartsin Monastery, a prominent example of Medieval Armenian architecture.

Lake Parz - Visit Parz Lake in Dilijan National Park, known for its serene beauty and lush natural surroundings. This picturesque lake, nestled within dense forests, offers an idyllic setting where the clear water reflects the greenery and sky, providing an atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation. The lake’s name, meaning “clear” in Armenian, perfectly describes its crystal-clear water. Visitors can enjoy walking along scenic paths, breathing in the fresh forest air, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. This stop is ideal for nature lovers seeking to experience the unspoiled charm of Armenia’s landscapes.

Yerevan - Khor Virap - Tushpa Winery - Noravank - Areni - Yerevan

Khor Virap - Visit Khor Virap Monastery (4th-18th centuries). This monastery is significant due to its history; Gregory the Illuminator, who introduced Christianity to Armenia, was imprisoned here for about 13 years when it was a prison. Enjoy the spectacular view of the sacred Ararat Mountain, an immortal symbol of Armenia.

Tushpa Wine Cellar - Tushpa Winery
Located 35km from Yerevan, Tushpa Winery is nestled below the Biblical Mt. Ararat in Taperakan village. The winery’s 6 hectares of vines are planted nearly 800 meters above sea level in clay-based soil with sedimentary rocks. For the winemakers, enhancing the terroir’s influence in the final product is fundamental. Sharing these unique qualities ensures the wines are protected and justified.

Noravank Monastery - Continue to Noravank, a 12th-century monastery situated among stunning sheer rocks on the edge of a twisty gorge. It is the only monastery featuring a unique sculpture of Father God.

Areni - On the return journey, visit Areni village, an important center of the wine production industry. Enjoy tasting local wines.

Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Gevorkian Winery - Yerevan

Garni - Visit Garni, home to the only standing Pagan temple in Armenia, built in the 1st century AD. This unique structure was dedicated to Mihr, the god of light and purity, showcasing Armenia’s ancient pre-Christian beliefs. Although largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1679, it was meticulously restored in 1975, reviving its classical Greco-Roman architectural style. Set atop a rocky hill with stunning views of the Azat River gorge, the Temple of Garni offers fascinating insights into Armenia’s pagan history and preservation efforts.

The Monastery of Geghard - Continue to Geghard Monastery, named after the legendary lance that pierced Christ’s body and was kept here for centuries. Although the exact founding date is unknown, the current complex dates back to the mid-13th century. Built partially into the cliffs of a spectacular gorge, Geghard Monastery is a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing both faith and artistry.

Departure

Yerevan - Enjoy breakfast and transfer to the airport.

• Breakfast
• Entrance fees as per program
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Professional driver service
• Daily bottled water (1 per person)
• Hotel accommodation
• Transportation in good condition

• Visa Fees
• Flight tickets
• Alcoholic beverages
• Extra personal fees
• Meals not indicated in the program

It’s a pleasure to welcome to Silk Road Armenia Travel Agency.

Welcome to dreamland Armenia. Experience a beautiful and light holiday in the most hospitable country accompanied by the kindest people of the world. The miracles of nature and culture are waiting for you to explore them. Be treated with the best of the best; you deserve it!

This unique tour will give you the opportunity to discover the natural, cultural and the delicious wonders of Armenia. You will visit the most wonderful holy places and will explore the secrets of Armenian cuisine and life.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.