Discover the heart and history of Armenia with this immersive Yerevan & Beyond: A 3-Day Journey tour. Explore Yerevan’s vibrant streets and monumental landmarks, including the poignant Armenian Genocide Memorial and the iconic Cascade stairway offering panoramic views of the city and majestic Mount Ararat. Venture beyond the city to experience the ancient pagan Temple of Garni, marvel at the natural wonder of the Symphony of Stones, and visit the sacred Geghard Monastery, nestled in a dramatic canyon. Finally, uncover the spiritual heritage of Etchmiadzin, home to the world’s first Christian cathedral and the seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This thoughtfully designed itinerary perfectly blends culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable journey through Armenia’s timeless past and vibrant present.
Upon arrival at Zvartnots International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Yerevan. Check-in is available from 12:00 noon, giving you some time to relax after your journey.
In the afternoon, begin your exploration of Yerevan, one of the world’s most ancient continually inhabited cities, dating back to 782 BC. Known as the “Pink City” due to the widespread use of rosy volcanic tuff stone in its buildings, Yerevan exudes a unique charm, blending its Soviet past with modern vitality.
The city tour starts with a visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex on Tsitsernakaberd Hill, a solemn site that honors the memory of the victims of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Surrounded by a peaceful park, this place invites quiet reflection and offers stunning views over the city.
Next, continue to one of Yerevan’s most iconic modern landmarks, the Cascade Monument. This massive stairway of 572 steps connects the city center to the Monument neighborhood and houses several contemporary art installations and fountains. From the top, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Yerevan with the majestic Mount Ararat towering on the horizon.
The tour continues on foot through Yerevan’s vibrant streets: admire the Opera House, wander through the charming Abovyan Avenue, and take in the grandeur of Republic Square, the city’s central hub adorned with neoclassical architecture and musical fountains.
Transfer back to your hotel. The evening is yours to relax or enjoy dinner at one of Yerevan’s cozy local restaurants. Overnight in Yerevan.
After breakfast, depart Yerevan and head east toward Garni, home to Armenia’s only surviving pagan temple. Built in the 1st century AD and dedicated to Mihr, the god of the sun, Garni Temple is a remarkable example of Greco-Roman architecture, strikingly unusual among the predominantly Christian monuments of Armenia.
From there, descend into the Garni Gorge to witness one of nature’s geological wonders – the Symphony of Stones. This natural marvel consists of perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns resembling a pipe organ, and is an unforgettable sight for nature lovers and photographers.
Next, continue to the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among dramatic cliffs. Founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory the Illuminator, this cave monastery complex is partially carved into the mountainside and holds a sacred spring believed to possess healing powers. The name “Geghard” means “spear,” referencing the spear that wounded Christ and was once kept here.
In the afternoon, travel to Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of the Catholicos, the church’s supreme head. Scholars believe the Etchmiadzin Cathedral to be the world’s oldest Christian cathedral, built in the early 4th century after Armenia adopted Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD. You’ll also visit the museum of Christian relics, which houses significant items of religious heritage.
Return to Yerevan in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Yerevan. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for souvenir shopping, a relaxed stroll through the city’s parks, or a final cup of Armenian coffee at a local café.
Check-out from the hotel is until 12:00 noon, followed by your transfer to Yerevan International Airport for your departure. This concludes your enriching journey through Armenia’s ancient past and vibrant present.
End of the tour.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Single supplement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $720 | $430 | $380 | $330 | $70 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $780 | $470 | $420 | $370 | $80 |
* – based on 3-4* hotel accommodation / ** – based on 4+* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with a local guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Hotel accommodation (shared double/twin room)
Any Private Expenses Lunches, Dinners (Full board) Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
I had the most incredible experience during the 3-day Yerevan and Its Vicinities tour. As a history lover, I was amazed by how much Armenia has to offer—from the grandeur of the Cascade Monument and the heart-stirring Tsitsernakaberd Memorial, to the ancient whispers of Garni and the spiritual calm of Geghard Monastery. Seeing Etchmiadzin, the world’s first cathedral, was a deeply emotional moment. The whole tour was perfectly paced, rich with historical insight and cultural immersion. I would especially like to thank our passionate guide, who brought every site to life with stories and enthusiasm. Highly recommended!
This tour was an ideal way to explore Armenia in a short time. From the vibrant city life of Yerevan to the peaceful spiritual sites in the countryside, every moment was unforgettable. Garni and Geghard were especially fascinating!