In the Footsteps of Armenia's UNESCO World Heritage

Itinerary

1. 

   1Welcome to Yerevan

   F/M

   Welcome at Zvartnots International Airport and transfer to the hotel. After breakfast you visit the Matenadaran, one of the world's most important centres for preserving and studying ancient manuscripts. Afterwards a city walk through the centre: Republic Square, Northern Avenue, the National Opera and Ballet Theatre, Swan Lake, Saryan Park with its painting exhibitions and the famous Cascade complex with the monument of architect Alexander Tamanian. The day ends with a visit to the legendary ARARAT brandy distillery, the only producer of the world-famous ARARAT brandies.

2. 

   2Garni and Geghard

   F/M

   The day begins with a visit to the History Museum of Armenia on Republic Square. Afterwards you travel to the country's most important monuments: the Temple of Garni, the former summer residence of the Armenian kings with the only surviving pagan sun temple in Armenia, and the UNESCO World Heritage monastery of Geghard from the 12th and 13th centuries. The name Geghard means Monastery of the Holy Lance. The surrounding rocks and the gorge of the Azat River also belong to the World Heritage Site. On site you can sample the traditional sweet gata as well as dried fruit and nut specialities.

3. 

   3Lori: Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries

   F/M

   Today the journey takes you to northern Armenia, to Lori Province. In the picturesque Debed gorge lie two masterpieces of medieval Armenian church architecture: the monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin from the 10th to 13th centuries, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The elaborately carved khachkars (cross-stones) of Haghpat are particularly remarkable. Sanahin was famous for its important library and houses some of the most beautiful Armenian cross-stones. You will also visit the historic bridge of Alaverdi and enjoy lunch in a cosy restaurant on the banks of the Debed River. Optionally you can visit the house museum of the Mikoyan brothers.

4. 

   4Khor Virap, Noravank and Areni

   F/M

   After breakfast you drive to the famous Khor Virap Monastery, one of Armenia's most important pilgrimage sites. From the monastery walls you enjoy a breathtaking view of majestic Mount Ararat. The journey continues to the region of red rocks and the impressive Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of Armenian architecture from the 12th century that developed into an important religious and cultural centre in the 14th century. On the way back, a wine tasting awaits you in the well-known wine village of Areni.

5. 

   5Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan and Dilijan

   F/M

   Today you discover some of Armenia's most beautiful landscapes: the spa town of Tsaghkadzor, Lake Sevan, the blue pearl of Armenia, and Dilijan, often called the Armenian Switzerland because of its magnificent nature. In Tsaghkadzor you visit the Kecharis Monastery. Optionally you can take the cable car up Mount Teghenis and enjoy a magnificent panoramic view. At Lake Sevan you visit Sevanavank Monastery on the peninsula with its unique view over the lake. Afterwards you continue to Dilijan, where you explore the historic old town and Goshavank Monastery.

6. 

   6Etchmiadzin, Sardarapat and Zvartnots

   F/M

   After breakfast you visit Etchmiadzin, the religious centre of Armenia and seat of the Catholicos of all Armenians. Etchmiadzin Cathedral, whose origins date back to the 4th century, is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also visit the churches of St. Hripsime (618), St. Gayane (630) and St. Shoghakat (1694), which also belong to the World Heritage Site. Afterwards you visit the Sardarapat Memorial and the State Museum of Ethnography. On the way back you will see the impressive ruins of the Zvartnots Temple, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. 

   7Gyumri and Harichavank

   F/M

   After breakfast you travel to Shirak Province and get to know Gyumri, Armenia's second largest city. During a city walk you discover the history, culture and special flair of the city. Afterwards you visit the medieval Harichavank Monastery. Return drive to Yerevan.

8. 8Farewell to Armenia

   F

   Transfer to the airport and return flight to Dortmund.

F = breakfast, M = lunch, A = dinner

Programme changes are reserved. Due to local conditions, weather or unforeseeable events the order of the programme items may change. Of course, all services listed in the travel programme will be provided. The programme applies to a group of 15 people, outbound and return flights with Wizz Air from Dortmund.

Impressions