Khor Virap Monastery is located about an hour’s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armenia’s defining symbol – the majestic Ararat. Khor Virap translates as deep dungeon, and it was built on the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. The Monastery is also one of the most sacred spots for Armenians around the world. This tour will also take you to the Areni Cave (Bird’s Cave). In 2008, archeologists discovered several of the world’s oldest artifacts, including a leather shoe and a winery here. The site, overlooking Arpa River near the town of Areni, is claimed to date back to the Early Bronze Age. It contains evidence of elaborate burial rituals and agricultural practices. Another place that can’t be missed is Noravank. It is one of the gems of medieval Armenian architecture, nestled high among the stunning brick-red cliffs at the end of the Gnishik Canyon. Afterwards, you will be given the chance to taste and even purchase Armenia’s renowned Areni wine, made from the oldest grape variety in the whole world. The wine is available in several wineries in the town of Areni itself.

Explore the history and culture of Armenia on this day trip from Yerevan. Visit some of the most important landmarks in Armenia, including Mount Ararat, Khor Virap, and the Geghard Monastery complex. Make your first stop at the Khor Virap monastery and see firsthand from where Christianity in Armenia originates. Next on the route is the only pagan temple in Armenia – Garni, dating back to the 1st century. Then visit the 13th-century Geghard monastic complex, partially carved in the rock and included in the Unesco World Cultural Heritage List. Finally, see the lavash (Armenian thin bread) baking process and try some fresh out of the oven.

Start the tour at 10 AM with pick up from the local operator's office in Yerevan. Then, set off for Khor Virap, the most famous pilgrimage site in Armenia. When you arrive, visit the monastery and learn about how it was built in the 17th century. Admire the picturesque views of the Biblical Mount Ararat. Next, head over to Birds Cave situated on the left bank of the Areni River. Explore the three halls, a large part of which still are yet to been explored. Learn about the archaeological findings which have been recovered from the cave including dried grapes, rope, dishes, clothing, and the oldest leather shoe in the world. Find out more about the ancient winery, which is believed to have existed since 4000 BC.   After this, stop for a lunch break at a cozy restaurant in a spectacular natural setting. Choose between 3 different meal options before arrival and pay on the spot - please note the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price. Then, learn a bit more about Hin Areni wine with a visit to the village winery. Enjoy a tour and tasting before admiring the architecture of the St Astvatsatsin Church. Then, drive along a narrow road flanked by impressive rock formations and numerous caves. Arrive at Noravank Monastery, which is one of the brightest examples of 13th-century Armenian architecture. Visit the churches of St Karapet, St Gregory the Illuminator, and St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) a two-storey church, admiring the incredible architecture and sculptural work. Finally, return back to the meeting point in Yerevan where your tour concludes.

Khor Virap monastery is located about an hour’s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armenia’s defining symbol: the majestic Ararat. “Khor Virap” translates as “deep dungeon”, and was built on the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. It was this very prison in which they detained Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for an entire 13 years. Your fantastic tour will introduce you to the exotic Pagan history of Armenia, before later introducing you to the development and spread of Christianity in the country. Your first stop will be Garni Temple (77 A.D.), which is the only standing heathen temple in the whole post-Soviet area. The temple is home to the Roman bath house with its mysterious mosaic which is made out of 30,000 pieces of natural stones, as well as the ruins of the royal palace which date back to the 3rd century A.D. The monastic complex of Geghard is another historical site included in this tour. Translated to “Monastery of the Holy Lance”, it refers to the lance with which Longinus pierced Jesus as he was still hanging on the cross. The complex is a representation of 13th-century Armenia, which is considered to be the golden age of the country’s architecture. The most astonishing part however is the virtue of the architect, who cut the church right into the solid rock whilst also considering all the rules of Armenian architecture. On your way to the temple, there will be another short stop at the Charents Arch where you will be given the chance to enjoy one of the best moments of your trip to Armenia: a picturesque view of the Biblical Mount Ararat.

Visit Armenia’s oldest and most well-known historical landmark, Mount Ararat. This private half-day tour takes you to the closest spot possible at Khor Virap Monastery for spectacular views of the snow-capped volcano. Located about an hour’s drive away from Yerevan, the monastery offers an amazing view of the majestic Mount Ararat. Explore Khor Virap and learn about the region’s history as a royal prison. This was the very prison where Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholic, was held for 13 years. It’s no surprise that the monastery serves as one of the most sacred spots in Armenia.   Discover more of Armenia’s sacred spots with a stop at Saint Hripsime Church, built on the sepulcher of the nun Hripsime and one of the oldest churches in the world. A short 5 minute drive away is the 7th-century church of Saint Gayane. From here visit the world’s first Christian Cathedral, the Holy Etchmiadzin. Built in 301-304, legend says that Jesus Christ descended here, where Gregory the Illuminator ordered to build the church. On the way back to Yerevan, the tour will conclude with a final stop at another beautiful 7th-century temple.

Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Epic Scenery with Wine Tasting in Armenia. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the tour to Khor Virap and wine tasting in the fields overlooking Mount Ararat is a must-visit. Don't miss out on this chance to taste, explore, and create unforgettable memories in Armenia! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that blends history, culture, and epic scenery with a touch of wine and good taste! The tour to Khor Virap and wine tasting in the fields overlooking Mount Ararat promises to be an extraordinary experience for anyone looking to explore the best of Armenia. Itinerary: Step into the historic Armenian monastery of Khor Virap, and be transported back in time. This stunning site offers breathtaking views of the legendary Mount Ararat, a sacred mountain that holds a special place in Armenian culture. Here, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich history of the monastery, learn about its significance, and take in the stunning panoramic views from its terrace. But the adventure doesn't stop there! After exploring Khor Virap, it's time to raise a glass and savor the best of Armenian wines in the fields overlooking Mount Ararat. This region is renowned for its vineyards and its stunning natural beauty, and you'll get to taste some of the finest wines the country has to offer. As you savor each sip, let your eyes wander across the rolling hills and lush vineyards, with Mount Ararat rising in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop to the wine tasting experience.

The tour will start at 09:30 AM with a pick-up point from your hotel. The day’s itinerary includes visits to Khor Virap Monastery, Areni Winery and Noravank Monastery situated deep in the Noravank Canyon. Once you get to Khor Virap, you will stop to admire and take photos of the spectacular view of Mount Ararat, the national symbol of Armenia. You will then continue to the winery in the village of the Areni, where you can try delicious Armenian wine and take a few bottles with you. Due to its charming medieval architecture and magnificent landscape, the Noravank Complex is a must see when in Armenia.  

The word “Echmiadzin” means a place where “the only begotten son of the God descended”. According to a legend, Jesus Christ descended from heaven and indicated the spot for a church to be built. Echmiadzin is the residence of the Supreme Catholicos of all Armenians and the center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. From here we will continue to the magnificent Zvartnots Temple constructed in the 7th century. All these churches and the temple are listed on the UNESCO World’s Cultural Heritage Sites. Our next stop will be the pagan temple Garni, built in the 1st century AD by the armenian king Trdat. The temple Garni is the only monument connected with the era of paganism and Hellenism, dedicated to the sun god Mithra. Not far from the temple is situated the Monastery Geghard, which was built in the 4th century by The First Armenian Catholicos - Gregory the Illuminator. The name of the monastery originates from the spear of the Roman soldier who pierced the body of Jesus Christ. Now the spear is presented in the museum of Echmiadzin. Our last destination is Khor Virap monastery, from where a spectacular view opens on the mountain Ararat. In fact, the name Khor Virap means “deep pit”, named after the prison where st. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. You can still climb down the pit using a narrow ladder in order to experience its atmosphere.

Tour to khor virap monastery with a stunning view of biblical mt ararat. Then continue driving to Areni village try one of the best wines in the country after visit noravank monastery ( XI-XIII c.) then visit tatev monastery, hear you should take a cable car and fly over the mountains about 5,5 km. This tour is one of the highlights of the country and one of the most beautiful.

It's hard to imagine a more rewarding trip than exploring the rich history and natural beauty of southern Armenia. This region offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, all easily accessible from Yerevan. Day 1: Yerevan to Khor Virap, Areni, and Jermuk Leave Yerevan early in the morning and drive to Khor Virap Monastery, one of the most sacred sites in Armenia with a spectacular view of Mount Ararat. Next, head to the village of Areni, known for its world-renowned wines. Visit a local winery and indulge in wine-tasting sessions, and learn about the wine-making process. Continue the journey to the spa town of Jermuk, located in the heart of the Armenian highlands. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and explore the picturesque town, famous for its hot mineral springs and stunning natural scenery. Drive to the nearby town of Sisian and spend the night at a guesthouse. Day 2: Tatev Monastery and Khndzoresk Cave Village After breakfast, head to Tatev Monastery, one of Armenia's most impressive medieval sites. Take the scenic Tatev Aerial Tramway, also known as the "Wings of Tatev," which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape as you soar over the Vorotan River Gorge. Explore the 9th-century Tatev Monastery, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the gorge. The monastery includes a number of beautifully preserved churches, as well as a bell tower and a refectory. Enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, drive to Khndzoresk Cave Village, a historic settlement that was carved into the rock cliffs of the surrounding mountains. Explore the cave dwellings and churches, which date back to the 4th century. Take a short hike to the Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Return to Yerevan in the evening. Khndzoresk Cave Village is another remarkable destination, carved into the rock cliffs of the surrounding mountains. Exploring the ancient cave dwellings and churches dating back to the 4th century is a journey through time that cannot be missed. And don't forget to take a short hike to the Khndzoresk Swinging Bridge, which offers a bird's-eye view of the beautiful landscape. The Karahunj Observatory, also known as the "Armenian Stonehenge," is another fascinating site in the region, with standing stones arranged in circles believed to have been used for astronomical observations and rituals. The surrounding natural beauty makes this an awe-inspiring place to contemplate the mysteries of the universe. Overall, southern Armenia offers a perfect balance of cultural and natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for an authentic Armenian experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover the wonders of this remarkable region.