Highlights of Armenia - 5 days (AM-01)

Today you’ll arrive in the Armenian capital Yerevan. Transfer to your hotel is included. Overnight in Yerevan. (Dinner)

This morning, your city tour of Yerevan begins at Republic Square, where you'll admire the grand architecture and the captivating Singing Fountains. Afterward, ascend the Yerevan Cascade for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the distant Mount Ararat. Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Vernissage, the city's largest open-air market, where you can browse for antiques and unique collectibles. Next, we'll visit the Matenadaran, a remarkable repository of ancient manuscripts. Following this, we'll head to the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, a poignant site where you can honor the victims of the 1915 genocide and learn about this significant chapter in Armenian history. In the afternoon, we'll venture outside the city to Echmiadzin to visit Armenia's oldest cathedral, and then explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of the 7th-century Zvartnots Cathedral. Return to Yerevan for dinner. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner) Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 55 km / 34 ml.

Today’s sightseeing programme combines two remarkable historical sites with the natural beauty of Garni Gorge. We’ll begin at the Temple of Garni, a rare Ionic pagan temple with Greco-Roman colonnades, unique in Armenia. Originally built in the 1st century AD, it was destroyed by a 17th-century earthquake but was carefully restored in the early 1970s. After exploring the temple, we’ll head to the stunning Garni Gorge, renowned for its unique basalt formations, often called the "Symphony of Stones," providing a breathtaking backdrop for photos. Nearby is the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, founded by Gregory the Illuminator in the 4th century and home to a sacred spring within a cave. The current structure dates back to 1315, and you’ll have the chance to visit the spring, which holds special significance. Before returning to Yerevan, we’ll enjoy a traditional lavash-baking experience, sampling fresh lavash with local cheese and herbs for an authentic taste of Armenia. After the tour, we’ll head back to Yerevan, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 75 km / 47 ml.

We’ll begin today’s itinerary at the monastery of Khor Virap. Morning’s the best time to catch a glimpse of distant Mount Ararat over the border. The views from this spectacular monastery are first rate, but head inside and descend the steps to see its well too. Next up is Noravank. Hidden away up a canyon, this monastery occupies an even more dramatic setting. Climb to the second floor of the church for incredible views back along the valley. After visiting Noravank, we’ll explore Birds' Cave, an important archaeological site where ancient artifacts have been discovered. Finally, we’ll take you to Areni, where we’ll enjoy a wine-tasting at one of Armenia’s premier wineries, giving you a chance to pick up a bottle or two to take home. Overnight in Yerevan. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 245 km / 153 ml.

Today is departure day. We hope you’ve enjoyed this brief introduction to Armenia and its capital and have made many happy memories. (Breakfast)