armenia Tours Highlights of Georgia & Armenia

Itinerary:

Day 1  Yerevan, Armenia              
Arrive in Yerevan and transfer to your hotel where you’ll meet your fellow travellers.                  

Day 2  Yerevan        
After breakfast enjoy a full day of exploring Yerevan and the surrounding area. Visit the churches of Hripsime and the impressive 7th Century ruins of Zvarnots Cathedral.              

Day 3  Yerevan          
In the morning drive for an hour to Geghard Monastery a UNESCO World Heritage Site where on the hillside you can still see caves that housed monastic cells. Later, take a trip to the village of Garni and explore the only pagan temple left in Armenia. After lunch, return to the city with free time to sample the thriving café culture of Yerevan.              

Day 4  Yerevan to Goris          
A long and fascinating day lies ahead. First, visit the Matenadaran, Armenia’s ancient manuscripts library, an imposing building at the top of Yerevan’s grandest avenue. Leave the capital behind and continue onto the monastery of Khor Virap, one of the holiest sites in the country with stunning views of Mount Ararat. After, stop off at Areni village where the finest Armenian wine is produced, visit the vineyard for a tasting. Later, arrive into the small town of Goris where you will spend the night.              

Day 5  Goris to Lake Sevan              
Start today by taking one of the world’s longest cable cars to visit the Tatev Monastery, perched on the edge of the Vorotan Canyon. Later enjoy a scenic drive on part of the ancient Silk Road stopping for lunch en route to Selim Caravanserai. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend to the blue water of Lake Sevan.  

Day 6  Lake Sevan to Haghpat        
This morning visit Sevanavank, a famous monastery with commanding views of Lake Sevan. After, head north to Lori, the lush alpine region of northern Armenia. Stop off at Dilijan, a small town known for its arts and crafts before visiting the 12th Century Haghartsin Monastery, nestled in a forested valley.

Day 7  Haghpat to Tibilisi, Georgia              
Enjoy a final morning in Armenia with a visit to the impressive UNESCO sites of Haghpat and Sanahin.  After lunch in Alaverdi, continue on to cross the border with a short walk into Georgia. Head to your hotel in Tibilisi, just moments away from the wonderfully restored historical centre with its relaxing pavement cafes and bars.          

Day 8  Tibilisi          
Take a walking city tour of Tibilisi in the morning and explore the old town. The afternoon is free to spend at your own leisure.

Day 9  Tibilisi to Gudauri          
Enjoy a scenic drive through the great Caucasus Mountains and head to the town of Kazbegi for views of Mount Kazbek, after lunch take a walk through the village of Gergeti to the landmark Holy Trinity church. Continue onto the ski resort of Gudauri, your home for this evening.  

Day 10  Gudauri to Kutaisi
Leave Gudauri behind and head onto Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town and discover ancient temples and theatres, walk up sandstone steps for a winding view across the river and plains. Later take a short drive to the town of Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, after some time at Stalin Square continue to Kutaisi where you will spend the night.

Day 11  Kutaisi to Bakuriani
Today visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery. Later, head to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park and enjoy breathtaking views as you explore this lovely national park on a guided walk.                

Day 12  Bakuriani to Tibilisi      
Travel back to Tibilisi stopping at Mtskheta en route to visit Sveti-Tskhoveli Cathedral, the largest functioning cathedral in Georgia and see the Jvari church, perched on a hill overlooking the valley
Later arrive into Tibilisi where you will have some free time to explore and enjoy this historic city.          

Day 13  Tibilisi          
After breakfast, drive east to the wine region of Kakheti, enjoy some lunch with a local family who will prepare some specialities paired with wine. Visit the Tsinandali Family Estate and its wine cellar. Return back to Tibilisi for your final night in Georgia.      

Day 14  Tibilisi      
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.    

Departs: