Cultural Tour in Armenia

Today our journey is all about religious discoveries. We leave early for Etchmiadzin, the holy centre of the Armenian religion. On the way there, we will visit the 7th-century Holy Hripsime Church and the impressive round cathedral of Zvartnots. Our next stop is the imposing Etchmiadzin Cathedral, which is one of the oldest churches in Christendom and fascinates with its magnificent Christian symbolism.

After this spiritual journey, we will continue to the village of Haykavan, where a cosy lunch awaits us in a beautiful setting and family atmosphere. Here we will have the opportunity to experience the preparation of Armenian shashlik and maybe even take part ourselves. Afterwards, we will return to Yerevan and reach our hotel, where we can still enjoy some rest.

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Accommodation: Yerevan / at the hotel

Today’s stage of our cultural tour of Armenia introduces us to the fascinating world of Armenian wine culture. We will visit the Vayots Dzor wine-growing region, which promises to be an enchanting backdrop with its unspoilt mountain landscape. The journey along the Armenian-Turkish border, which has been guarded by Russian peacekeepers since Soviet times, takes us to the Khor Virap monastery, which is located on a hill just a few steps from the border fence.

The monastery, shrouded in legend, is said to be the place where the first Catholicos Gregory the Illuminator spent 13 years in a deep hole. In the background, the biblical Mount Ararat rises majestically.

We continue to Doft Sisavan, where a hospitable family invites us for a coffee break with homemade Armenian cake. Afterwards, we continue to the Vayots Dzor region.

During the journey, the flat landscape gradually changes into a mountainous environment. Our next stop is the Bird Cave, a karst cave where we will experience a fascinating guided tour. Afterwards, we will discover the monastery of Noravank, which is surrounded by picturesque red and apricot rock formations.

Overwhelmed by the beauty of nature and cultural diversity, we finally reach the wine village of Areni, which should not be missing from any cultural tour of Armenia. Here we will be warmly welcomed by a winemaker and invited to a festive table.

We will toast our encounter and enjoy the delicious meal. On the way back to Yerevan, we will return to our hotel to get some rest and reflect on the day.

Meals: breakfast, dinner, wine tasting

Accommodation: Yerevan / at the hotel

Today, the northern province of Shirak is on the programme. Our journey takes us to the second largest city in Armenia, which, despite its tragic past, welcomes its visitors with a warm welcome and a smile. Affectionately called ‘Father City’ by the locals, it offers us a wealth of discoveries. On our city tour, we will immerse ourselves in the life and colourful atmosphere of a city that was once famous for its culture, humour and art.

We continue to the Marmashen Church on the Akurjan River, which forms the natural border between Armenia and Turkey. The breathtaking panorama will inspire us before we stop at a picturesque restaurant. Anyone visiting Gyumri should not miss the opportunity to try the delicious regional fish dishes. Here we even have the opportunity to fish ourselves and get the fresh catch on the table. Enjoy your meal!

On the way back to Yerevan, we will have a relaxing coffee break with a beekeeper family before continuing our journey back to the capital. Upon our arrival in Yerevan, we will have time to rest and reflect on the day’s experiences.

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Accommodation: Yerevan / at the hotel

Our wonderful cultural tour of Armenia ends with the transfer to the airport.