Armenia Highlights Tour Package (8 Nights / 9 Days)

Early in the morning you arrive in the Armenian capital and can immediately move into your hotel room. After a rest and a late breakfast, you will explore the bustling and multifaceted metropolis. In the heart of the city you will find Republic Square in the style of Armenian neoclassicism. Also discover modern Yerevan with the architectural achievements of the 20th century and stroll along Abovjan Street together with the locals. A real treasure trove is the famous Matenadaran Museum, which houses the largest collection of ancient Armenian manuscripts. Afterwards, be enchanted by the hustle and bustle and the smells of Armenian delicacies at the central food market and admire the Blue Mosque, the only one still preserved in Armenia. You may also visit the artisan and flea market "Vernissage" before climbing the stairs at the Cascade and ending the day with a magnificent view of the city. 2 nights in Yerevan.

In the morning you will explore Echmiadzin, the religious center of Armenians and the seat of the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Visit Hripsime Church and Echmiadzin Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - masterpieces of early medieval Armenian architecture. If you wish, you can take part in the Sunday service and, with a little luck, experience the entrance of the Catholicos, the spiritual leader. On the way back to Yerevan, stop in Zvartnots and visit the first Armenian round church (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the impressive Genocide Memorial on Zizernakabert hill to commemorate the victims of the 1915 tragedy. If you are in the mood for culture in the evening, ask your guide about attending a concert at the State Opera Theater (subject to availability, approx. €10-15 p.p., bookable locally). (F)

Today drive to Lake Sevan, picturesquely located in the high mountains at an altitude of 1,900 meters. Admire the unique beauty of the largest lake in Armenia with its turquoise, clear shimmering water. Visit the Sevanavank Monastery (9th century), which is elevated on a peninsula. Your drive will then take you to the famous resort town of Dilijan, which is also called the "Switzerland of Armenia" by the locals. Visit the old quarter, stroll along the artists' street Sharambeyan and be a guest of Armenian artists. Before visiting the grandiose monastery complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), stop en route for lunch in Alaverdi. 1 night in the picturesque Debet Gorge in Dzoraget.

On your way admire the picturesque village of Dsegh, where there are many photo opportunities in the impressive nature. After the sightseeing you will drive to Gyumri and get acquainted with the most important sights of the second largest city in Armenia during a city tour. Look forward to typical delicacies in a fish restaurant. Afterwards, travel back to Yerevan on the legendary Silk Road and be transported back in time by the ruins of St. Gregory's Cathedral (7th c.), the remarkable remains of the Royal Palace (7th c.) and the old caravanserai (13th c.). 4 nights in Yerevan. (B/M)

Through the Ararat Valley, today's journey takes us to the beautifully situated monastery of Chor Virap (17th century). Here Gregory the Illuminator spent 13 years in captivity before becoming a missionary and the first Catholicos of Armenia. If the weather is fine, you will have a wonderful view of the imposing Mount Ararat (5,165 m) - the holy mountain of the Armenians! Look forward to visiting the Noravank Monastery (13th/14th century), which is idyllically nestled at the end of a ruggedly picturesque gorge and is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Armenia. On the way back to Yerevan, visit a local family for lunch of homemade dishes. Taste the homemade red wine for which the region around the village of Areni is famous beyond the borders of Armenia. (B/M)

An excursion today will take you to the medieval Amberd Fortress from the 7th century (excursion only possible from May). The castle is enthroned on an impregnable plateau below Mount Aragats (4,096 m), the highest peak in Armenia. Enjoy the fabulous view over the landscape at an altitude of about 2,300 meters! Also worth seeing is the 11th century church belonging to the fortress complex. Depending on the weather, you will have a picnic lunch with typical local delicacies or stop for a meal. On the way back to Yerevan you will visit a cognac distillery and taste the world famous and legendary Armenian brandy. (B/M)

35 kilometers east of Yerevan, in a gorge, lies the Geghard Cave Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 13th century), one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Armenia. It was carved out of the rock face and is decorated with unique carvings and stone carvings. Afterwards you will visit the pagan sun temple of Garni built in the 1st century in Hellenistic style. At noon you will have the opportunity to participate in the production of the traditional flat bread Lavash, baked in the typical earth oven "Tonir". In 2014, UNESCO put lavash bread on the list of intangible cultural heritage of Armenia. Enjoy it with cheese and fresh herbs! Back in Yerevan, you will have plenty of time to stroll around the city on your own or browse for souvenirs. During dinner in a traditional restaurant you can review your experiences. (B/A)

"Ztesutjun!" - "Goodbye!" At night transfer to the airport and flight back to your home country.