Overview
Get into the Essence of Armenia by doing the Essential Armenia tour. Visiting the most important and distinct sites in the country. If you have limited time in the country, this tour is just for you. It is a great way to explore Armenia, by not only, visiting its main sites but also meeting local people, eating in their house and getting to know rural life in Armenia. Our English-only guides will make your journey unforgettable Start your morning by admiring the magnificence of Azat gorge and the stunning rock formation known as the Symphony of Stones. Explore the amazing Geghard monastery carved within a mountain and the iconic Garni temple. Visit a local family and learn about life in the Fantan village over a home cooked lunch. Be amazed by the sheer number of “khachkar'' (stone etched headstones) at the Noratus cemetery and discover the history behind them. Appreciate the serenity of Lake Sevan from the picturesque Sevanavank perched on top of a hill overlooking the lake.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Ticket to Garni Temple
- Professional and safe driver
- Homemade lunch with a local family. Dietary requirements are taken into consideration
- Bottled water
- Ticket to Symphony of Stones
- Air-conditioned vehicle
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
Start your morning by admiring the magnificence of Azat gorge and the stunning rock formation known as the Symphony of Stones. Unique to Armenia the symmetric basalt columns of the Symphony of Stones are a great start to the tour. Enjoy the sounds of nature as the magnificent river Azat creates the symphony in the stones.
Stop 2
Built in 66 AD by King Tirdates I Garni temple is the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia. The temple is done in a typical Greco-Roman style similar to many temples in Greece and Italy. Learn about the history of this one and only temple, how it got to the modern times and how it survived the Christinazation of Armenia. In the temple grounds marvel at the unique roman style bathhouse and its original mosaics that are 2000 years old.
Stop 3
This UNESCO world heritage site is one of a kind. Geghard Monastery is partly carved into the mountain side and the caves that is surrounded by. Marvel at exquisite carvings of pomegranates, grapes and Saints. Learn about the mystical history of the spear that wounded Jesus during the crucifixion and how it got to Geghard Monastery. Enjoy classical Armenian snacks just before heading out for lunch.
Stop 4
Get to know the local rural life of Armenia and specifically the life in the village of Fantan over a home-made lunch. The Essence of Armenia cannot be understood without stepping into the house of typical family. All dietary requirements can be catered to. After lunch coffee/tea and deserts are provided.
Stop 5
Be amazed by the sheer number of “khachkar”‘s (stone etched headstones) at the Noratus cemetery and discover the history behind them. Learn about the customs of the locals and the legends they have by exploring this medieval cemetery.
Stop 6
Sitting on top of the hill of Sevan peninsula this Monastery has the best views of Lake Sevan. Built in 10th century Sevanvank has been an important cultural and spiritual century for Armenia.
Stop 7
Appreciate the serenity of Lake Sevan from Sevan peninsula. Lake Sevan is one of the largest and highest freshwater lakes in the world. In the summer time by the agreement of the whole group it is also possible to swim in the lake and cool yourself.
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness