Ancient Wonders of Armenia

Upon your arrival at Yerevan’s international airport, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel in the city center. After check-in at noon and some time to settle in and rest, your discovery of Armenia begins with a guided city tour of Yerevan—one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back to 782 BC. Known as the “Pink City” due to the unique color of the volcanic tuff used in many of its buildings, Yerevan blends Soviet grandeur with ancient history and modern vibrancy.

The first stop is the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex on Tsitsernakaberd Hill, a deeply moving site dedicated to the memory of the victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. From here, continue to the Cascade Monument, a colossal stairway of 572 steps adorned with contemporary art installations and fountains, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat in the distance.

The tour continues with a pleasant walk along the city’s most iconic locations, including the Yerevan Opera House, Republic Square, and Abovyan Avenue, one of the city’s oldest and most atmospheric streets. In the evening, enjoy a festive welcome dinner at a traditional Armenian restaurant, sampling local cuisine and hospitality. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart Yerevan and head south to the legendary Khor Virap Monastery, a sacred site in Armenian history. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Ararat, the monastery is famed as the place where St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years. His eventual release led to Armenia becoming the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD.

The journey continues through picturesque valleys to the Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval architecture nestled in a narrow gorge framed by steep, red cliffs. The simple yet elegant silhouette of the church beautifully contrasts with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a scene of rare harmony.

Next, explore the Areni-1 Cave, an archaeological site where the world’s oldest leather shoe—over 5,500 years old—was discovered. Then stop at the Hin Areni Winery to taste some of Armenia’s finest local wines, produced using traditional methods passed down through generations.

On the way to Goris, stop at Karahunj (also known as Zorats Karer)—a mysterious prehistoric site often dubbed the “Armenian Stonehenge.” The area contains more than 200 massive stone monoliths, many with perfectly carved circular holes. Scholars believe it may have been an ancient observatory or ceremonial site.

Arrive in the charming town of Goris in the evening, check in at your hotel, and rest overnight.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to one of Armenia’s most iconic religious and architectural treasures—the Tatev Monastery. Situated dramatically atop a cliff overlooking the deep Vorotan Gorge, this 9th-century complex once served as a vital center of spiritual life and education in medieval Armenia.

To reach Tatev, take a thrilling ride on the “Wings of Tatev” aerial tramway, the longest reversible cable car in the world, stretching 5.7 kilometers and offering unforgettable views of canyons and lush forests below. This remarkable feat of engineering is listed in the Guinness World Records.

After visiting the monastery and exploring its serene surroundings, begin the return journey to Yerevan. Enjoy scenic views along the way, arriving back in the capital in the early evening. Overnight at the hotel.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Yerevan. After breakfast and check-out from your hotel (by noon), you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure, do some last-minute shopping, or relax at a local café.

At the designated time, your driver will transfer you to Zvartnots International Airport for your departure flight. End of the 4-Day Armenia Tour, taking with you lasting impressions of Armenia’s timeless beauty, heritage, and warm hospitality.