Breakfast at the hotel. City tour - Yerevan sightseeing including City center, Republic square, State University, City panorama, Mother Armenia Monument, Parliament, President’s Palace, Opera, Sports & Concert Complex. Visit to the Genocide Memorial, dedicated to the Victims of 1915 and the Genocide Museum. Visit to Matenadaran (depository for ancient manuscripts, the collection of which is one of the biggest in the world). This outstanding collection includes manuscripts dating from 7th century and is widely appreciated by history and art amateurs and professionals. Visit to Cascade complex, which is considered the modern art center of Yerevan, with art pieces displayed throughout the whole area: the boulevard and up the stairs, from top of which you can enjoy the panoramic view on the city and Mountain Ararat. Cascade is home to Cafesjan modern art museum. This place becomes even more charming in the evenings, when it is full of people, both locals and tourists from all over the world, enjoying the magic and the warmth of the capital. You will enjoy spending time in one of the cosy open-air cafes surrounded by beautiful sculptures, redolent flowers shining brightly with magic colors. It is also a popular place for open air concerts at summer season. Visit the Cathedral of St. Gregory the Illuminator, which is currently the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Etchmiadzin City, which is used to be the ancient capital of Armenia. Since 4th century, it is the largest religious center, the residency of Catholicos of All Armenians. Etchmiadzin cathedral is one of the ancient churches in the Christian world, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2000), it is the center of Armenian Apostolic Church. It was founded in 301 A.D. by St. Gregory the Illuminator. Later, it was rebuilt and currently it stands as a complex including the Cathedral, Spiritual Academy, residency of the Catholicos of all Armenians, Synod of Armenian Church and a library. The museum of the Cathedral, located behind the Altar, has collection of religious artifacts about Holy Mass, subjects made of gold, silver, precious stones, decorations, colossal silver boiler for making the myrrh and legendary Holy spear. Visit the church of St. Gayane (VII cent. BC. E.), who died for the spread of Christianity in Armenia. It is located to the south from the Cathedral and was founded in 630 by Catholicos Ezr. Before entering in the town of Echmiadzin visit the majestic St. Hripsime Church. The legend of Hripsime dates from the early days of Christianity. Hripsime fled to Armenia to escape persecution by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. A beautiful but totally devoted follower of Christ, Hripsime refused to marry the pagan Armenian King Tirdat III when ordered, and chose the death of a martyr. A small chapel was erected over the spot where she was murdered. In the 7th century a wondrous church - a masterpiece of Armenian architecture - was built in its place by order of Catholicos Komitas. A trip to one of the architectural wonders of Armenia: Zvartnots temple (641-661 BC) the temple of "Vigil Forces", which got its name from the word "Zwart", which translated from Armenian means "joyful and beautiful." The remaining ruins give an idea of the rare beauty of this temple. The temple is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2000).

Overnight in Yerevan

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia devoted to the God of Sun – Myrth, in Garni, built in 77AD by King Trdat (Arshakid Dynasty). The temple is Greco-Roman style with characteristic pillars. It stands proudly on a rocky ridge with a deep canyon presenting a beautiful view. The temple was a summer residence for Arshakid dynasty. Visit to the ruins of Royal Palace and Royal bath-house nearby. Canyon of Garni -magnificent and outstanding scene which creates the image of falling crags. It obtained the name "Symphony of Stones" due to its view. The fantastic landscape of Garni canyon shakes the human imagination. Drive to the unique caved temple St. Geghard (12th -13thcc.), the name of which means “holy spear” in the honor of the long-preserved spear, the same spear that pierced the body of crucified Christ. It is now exhibited in the museum of Etchmiadzin Cathedral. Geghard Monastery is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list (2000). The monastery is hidden in the majestic rocks and this scene creates an impression that the rocks have been protecting the ancient monastery for ages. Optional: Possibility to organize family hosted lunch in village house with watching of “Lavash” (Armenian traditional flat bread baked in stonemake oven) making process.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Khor Virap - a place of pilgrimage for Armenians all over the world. According to history annals, Armenian pagan king Trdat imprisoned Saint Gregory the Illuminator in a cave which became known as Khor Virap (Deep Hole). Here you can also see the closest and most spectacular view of the gorgeous biblical mountain Ararat (where Noah's ark has landed according to Bible) shining with its two white peaks. From this area Ararat is so near that one feels he can touch those two peaks of the mountain. Continuing tour to Areni (the entrance of Areni depends on a day, special permission is needed) - the location where archaeologists found the earliest known wine press for stomping grapes, fermentation and storage vessels, drinking cups, etc. Later in 2008 here’s found a 5,500-year-old leather shoe, which is a one-piece leather-hide shoe that has been dated few hundred years older than the one found on Ötzi the Iceman, making it the oldest piece of leather footwear in the world. Next stop is Noravank monastery complex - a major religious and cultural center. The magnificent landscape of mountains, surrounding the monastery, displays a beautiful array of colors from the sun's reflection. The monastery is remarkable not only for its position among the red rocks but also for its extreme architectural value. The monastery is rich with the Armenian emblematic frets. Drive to the southern part of Armenia – Goris. On way visit Zoratys Karer. Zorats Karer or Karahunj is proved to be one of the oldest, 7500 years old observatories in the world. Currently it stands as precisely arranges stones in the field with the holes that were used for astrological observations. The petroglyphs found nearby Karahunj prove that the early inhabitants in Armenia were well aware of astrology. Karahunj has been named by tourists “the Armenian Stonehendge”.

Overnight in Goris

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Tatev Monastery, enjoying spectacular view of the scenery around, passing Devil’s bridge. View of recently constructed rope way – the longest in the world (5,7 km), recorded in Guinnes record book. Optional: ride on the longest ropeway in the world over the canyons to the Monastery of Tatev and back. Drive to Sevan Lake one of the greatest high mountainous freshwater lakes of Eurasia, via Selim pass. On a way visit Selim Pass Karavansaray, this was used for having a rest by Silk Road caravans. Visit to Noraduz, which is the cemetery, located near Sevan Lake, and looks like field full of well preserved khachkars or cross stones of medieval times. It represents the pearl of medieval Christian culture. Check-in hotel in Sevan.

Overnight in Sevan

Breakfast at the hotel. In Sevan, climb on Akhtamar peninsula from where the fascinating view on the Lake is open. Visit Sevanavank monastery, which stands in its greatness on the peninsula overlooking the lake for centuries. Drive to mountainous resort Dilijan, or so called “Armenian Switzerland”, which is well-known for its forests as well as for its mysterious flora and fauna. During the drive one can enjoy the unbelievable change of the surrounding environment and land shaft from the mountainous lake to the green and rich forest mountains. Small walking city tour in Dilijan: visit to handicrafts’ street, where one can watch the preparation of different national souvenirs from wood, stone and ceramics. Visit to Haghartsin Monastery complex which is located in the secluded place of the forest. Haghartsin dates back to 11-13th century and represent a magnificent piece of history, culture and architecture. The place is so unique and the scenery with the nature surrounding it is so breathtaking that most of visitors are in awe. Appearing unexpectedly, out of the dense forests, in front of the visitors, the Monastery creates a magical impression of a lost world. Complex includes Church St. Stepanos, St. Mary and St. Gregory’s Church, as well as famous refectory. Visit the monastery of Goshavank (XII-XIII centuries), located in the forest, it is a true architectural treasure.

Overnight in Dilijan

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the masterpieces of medieval Armenian architecture - Sanahin Monastery (centuries IX - XII) and Haghpat Monastery (centuries XI - XIII), which are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage (2000). They are located in the northern part of Armenia, in the region of Lori, near the town of Alaverdi. The monasteries were important religious centers as around 500 monks lived there. They were also schools and manuscript repositories. Sanahin Monastery is among the most famous monasteries of medieval Armenia. It is a complex of Churches included the Church of Holy Mother of God, the Church of San Amenaprkich, the Chapel of San Gregorio (X century), a building of the Academy (XI century), a depositary (XI century), a building of Gallery (X century), a hall (XII century) and bells (XIII century). All these buildings are around the ancient Church of Blessed Virgin St. The academy was historically known as Grigor Pahlavuni Academy, where great attention to the arts and humanities was paid. famous Armenian scientists taught at the academy. In the twelfth century, Sanahin had a medical school. There were many notable people who graduated from the school; one of them is the singer and musician national Sayat-Nova. Haghpat Monastery, located northwest of Sanahin was built with the appearance of the above. The clock tower was built in 1210 and is one of the most beautiful examples of this type of medieval times in Armenia. Bell tower of the monastery, built in 1245, is distinguished from all the main monuments, and has an architectural design worthy of mention. The complex was home to libraries, scriptoriums, schools and canteens. Here Arts and Humanities, theology and painting were taught. The most interesting feature of Haghpat is the refectory (XIII century). Drive to Akhtala monastery, which was built in 13th c. and is unique for having well preserved fresco paintings on inside walls. The village, where the monastery is located, is situated on the left bank of river Debed. There are numerous archaeological sites surrounding the village. Drive to the Armenian – Georgian Border. Meeting at the Georgian-Armenian border. Drive to Tbilisi. Transfer to the hotel.

Overnight in Tbilisi.

Breakfast at the hotel. City tour in Tbilisi (literally "Warm Spring"), the capital and the largest city of Georgia, lying on the banks of the Mt'k'vari River., founded in the 5th century by Vakhtang Gorgasali, the Georgian King of Iberia, and made into a capital in the 6th century. Tbilisi is a significant industrial, social and cultural centre. Located strategically at the crossroads between Europe and Asia and lying along the historic Silk Road routes, Tbilisi has often been a point of contention between various rival powers and empires. The history of the city can be seen by its architecture. Visit to Metechi church (13th century) and the statue of king Vakhtang Gorgasali (founder of Tbilisi - 5th century); Abanotubani – the ancient district of Tbilisi, known for its sulfuric baths; Narikala fortress; Sharden street, Synagogue, Sioni Cathedral (12th century), Anchiskhati Basilica – the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi (6th century), The Holy Trinity Cathedral, commonly known as Sameba - the main Georgian Orthodox Cathedral and it is listed among the largest Orthodox churches in the world, St.David church – Mamadaviti.

Overnight in Tbilisi

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mtskheta. Mtskheta is one of the oldest cities of the country of Georgia, was capital of the early Georgian kingdom of Iberia during the 3rd century BC - 5th century AD and it was the site of early Christian activity. Visit to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century). Svetitskhoveli, known as the burial site of Christ’s mantle, has long been the principal Georgian church and remains one of the most venerated places of worship to this day. Visit to Jvari Monastery (6th century) which stands on the rocky mountain top at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, overlooking the village of Mtskheta. Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery in Mtskheta are among the most significant monuments of Georgian architecture, and are historically significant in the development of medieval architecture throughout the Caucasus and are listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit to Samtavro Transfiguration Orthodox Church and Nunnery of St. Nino in Mtskheta, built in the 4th century by King Mirian III of Iberia. The church was reconstructed in the 11th century by King George I and Catholicos-Patriarch Melkisedek. The famous Georgian monk Gabriel is buried in the yard of Samtavro Church. Drive to Ateni Sioni Church - an early 7th-century Georgian Orthodox church in the village of Ateni. Drive to Kutaisi – second largest city of Georgia.

Overnight in Kutaisi

Breakfast in the hotel. Visit Gelati Academy and Monastery, which is a monastic complex near Kutaisi, the region of Imereti, western Georgia, was founded by King David IV the founder in XII century. During the 12 -13th centuries Gelati was one of the biggest religious, educational, scientific and philosophy centers of Georgia. The founding of Gelati is tied to the cultural renaissance of Georgia. Visit to Motsameta - the name of the church, Motsameta (“place of martyrs”), is tied to the nobles of Argveti, brothers David and Constantine who organized a revolt against the Arabs. Bagrati Cathedral proudly watches over Kutaisi and the Rioni River. It was built in the early years of the 11th century, during the reign of King Bagrat III due to which it was called "Bagrati" Cathedral.

Overnight in Tbilisi.

Breakfast in the hotel. Drive to eastern part of Georgia – Kakheti region. Visit David Gareja - is a rock-hewn Georgian Orthodox monastery complex (6th century). Located on the half-desert slopes of Mount Gareja, The complex was founded in the 6th century by David (St. David Garejeli), one of the thirteen Assyrian monks who arrived in the country at the same time. Despite the harsh environment, the monastery remained an important centre of religious and cultural activity for many centuries; at certain periods the monasteries owned extensive agricultural lands and many villages. Visit to Bodbe Monastery - a Georgian Orthodox monastic complex. Originally it was built in the 9th century. Visit to Sighnaghi – one of the beautiful towns of the Kakheti region. Sighnaghi and its environs are home to several historical and cultural monuments. The town is walled with the remnants of 18th century fortifications. At the elevation of about 790 m above sea level, the town overlooks the Alazani valley and faces the Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Overnight in Sighnaghi.

Breakfast in the hotel. Drive to Alaverdi Monastery, which is a Georgian Orthodox Monastery Parts of the monastery dating back to 6th century. The present day cathedral dates to the 11th century. At a height of over 55 meters, Alaverdi Cathedral is the second tallest religious building in Georgia, after the recently consecrated Tbilisi Sameba (Holy Trinity) Cathedral. Visit to Ikalto, a village about 10 km west of the town Telavi in the Kakheti region of Eastern Georgia. It is mostly known for its monastery complex and the Ikalto Academy (12th century). Visit to Shuamta – two of the most important and the most beautiful architectural monuments of Kakheti area the Dzveli (“old”) 6th century and Akhali (“new”) 16 th century Shuamta Monasteries. Both of them stand in a forest of deciduous trees which makes them look even more fascinating.

Drive to Tbilisi.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Ananuri. Visit Ananuri (17th century) is a castle complex on the Aragvi River. Drive to Gudauri. Tour along hiostorical Georgian Military Road. Gudauri - is a ski resort (2000 meters above the sea level) located on the southern slopes of The Greater Caucasus Mountain Range in Georgia. Drive to Kazbegi by crossing the “Jvari Pass” (2385 m. above the sea level). Here you can explore the area beautifully situated on the hill. Hire 4X4 vehicles to get to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, remarkable monument of Georgian architecture, near the village of Gergeti, situated at an elevation of 2170 meters, on the foothill of Mount Kazbegi (elevation 5033). Drive back to Tbilisi.

Overnight in Tbilisi.