Route:Tbilisi city-tour-Mtskheta-Jvari, Signaghi-Bodbe-Tsinandali, Ananuri-Gudauri-Gergeti, Uplistsikhe-Borjomi, Sevan(Sevanavank)-Dilijan(Hagharstin), Yerevan city-tour, Garni-Geghard(Vernisage-Gum market), Khor-Virap-Noravank-Jermuk, Saghmosavank-Armenian Alphabet monument, Rustaveli Avenue-Dry bridge-Shavnabada.
Duration: 11 nights/12 days
DAY |
DESTINATION |
Day 1 |
Meeting at the airport Tbilisi. Transfer to the hotel. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 2 |
Tbilisi city-tour-Mtskheta-Jvari. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 3 |
Signaghi-Bodbe-Tsinandali. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 4 |
Ananuri-Gudauri-Gergeti. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 5 |
Uplistsikhe-Borjomi. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 6 |
Sevan(Sevanavank)-Dilijan(Hagharstin). Night in Yerevan |
Day 7 |
Yerevan city-tour. Night in Yerevan |
Day 8 |
Garni-Geghard(Vernisage-Gum market). Night in Yerevan |
Day 9 |
Khor-Virap-Noravank-Jermuk. Night in Yerevan |
Day 10 |
Saghmosavank-Armenian Alphabet monument. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 11 |
Rustaveli Avenue-Dry bridge-Shavnabada. Night in Tbilisi |
Day 12 |
Transfer to the airport Tbilisi |
1 Day: Meeting at the airport. Transfer to the hotel.
Meeting at the airport.
Transfer to the hotel.
Free time.
Night in Tbilisi.
2 Day: Tbilisi city-tour-Mtskheta-Jvari
Breakfast
Sightseeing tour of Tbilisi, during which we will get acquainted with both the history and architecture of the old part of Tbilisi. The appearance of old Tbilisi is unlike any other city in the world. The combination of original architecture and natural beauty gives it a unique charm and color. During our walk, we will visit the bridge of Peace, walk along the street of Chardin, visit the area of natural sulfur baths-Abanotubani. We will also go up by cable car to the defensive fortress of Narikala, which the locals call the soul and the heart of Tbilisi. Today, the appearance of the city harmoniously combines ancient and modern features: near the temples of the VI-VII centuries, modern high-rise buildings have grown, wide streets, parks, gardens have appeared, and majestic bridges have spanned the rapid and full-flowing Kura.
Mtskheta is the most sacred city for pilgrimage in Georgia, and is declared a UNESCO world heritage site. The ancient history of Mtskheta is fascinating and well-known. The city was founded in the V century BC by the indigenous meshkin tribes, who are believed to have originally emigrated from Anatolia (Turkey). Legend has it that the city was named after the legendary ruler Mtsekhotos, the son of the first king of Kartli.
Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is a famous monument of Christian culture in Georgia. It was built on the site of the destroyed Church of the Twelve Apostles (IV century).A religious tradition connected with the adoption of Christianity by Georgia is connected with the emergence of this Church. The legend tells about a resident of Mtskheta, Elioz, who, while in Jerusalem, obtained the Chiton of Jesus Christ.
On a hill overlooking Mtskheta, there is a revered monastery temple of Jvari, whose name translates as”cross”. According to legend, Jvari is the place where Saint Nino erected the Holy cross to symbolize Georgia’s adoption of Christianity in the IV century ad
Night in Tbilisi
3 Day: Signaghi-Bodbe-Tsinandali
Breakfast
Sighnaghi is a small cozy town in Eastern Georgia, located on a mountain slope in the historical region of Kakheti. The city was founded in the XVII century under king Heraclius II and, according to local residents, it is the only city in Georgia that has completely preserved the fortress walls. The fortress wall is lined with watchtowers, which you can climb to view the magnificent views of the Alazani valley.
The monastery and Episcopal complex of Saint George, located in Bodbe, Kakheti, is a national Georgian Shrine. Here in the Cathedral of St. George lie the remains of equal-to-the-apostles Nino of Cappadocia – the great Baptist of Georgia-the harbinger of the Christian era.
Alexander Chavchavadze, the founder of Georgian romanticism, inherited the Tsinandali estate from his father, which he turned into the cultural and intellectual center of Georgia. This status of the estate did not lose in the XXI century. Tsinandali still plays a significant role in the cultural life of Georgia, where exhibitions, concerts, literary events and master classes are held.
Night in Tbilisi
4 Day: Аnanuri-Gudauri-Gergeti
Breakfast
Ananuri fortress is one of the hundreds of medieval fortresses in Georgia, which is almost impossible to miss. In the XVI-early XIX centuries. Ananuri was the main stronghold on the way from the Daryal gorge to Dusheti and from Russia to Georgia. It played a significant role in numerous wars between local feudal princes – eristavs and in its history has never been taken by storm.
Gudauri – young and rapid developing winter sports resort located at Kazbegi region of Georgia. The main attraction of Gudauri is the free ride – descent through virgin fields. The deep snow cover, lack of rocks, and avalanche danger make Gudari a freeride Mecca. There are also a huge number of off-piste descents for backcountry and Heli-skiing around the resort. The Church of the Holy Trinity in the village of Gergeti is one of the most picturesque in Georgia. Such it is due to its location on a hill among the mountains. Some visitors who go up to the Church may be lucky enough to see Kazbek, which in clear weather offers a fascinating view.
Night in Tbilisi
5 Day: Uplistsikhe-Borjomi
Breakfast
The cave city of Uplistsikhe is one of the attractions of Shida Kartli province .Rock city is a complex of natural and artificial caves on the high rocky Bank of the Kura river. The name Uplistsikhe translates as” Fortress of the Lord “or”Fortress of God”. The city appeared in the late II-early I Millennium BC, went through several UPS and downs, was finally abandoned in the XIX century and is thus a multi-layered archaeological site, one of the most important monuments of Georgian culture.
Borjomi is a resort town in South-Central Georgia. The city is known for its Mineral Water industry and the world conservation Fund-Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park.
Night in Tbilisi
6 Day: Sevan-Sevanavank-Dilijan-Haghartsin
Breakfast
The ancient relic lake Sevan – “Pearl of Armenia” or “Gegham sea” – is one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. This natural wonder is located in the very center of the Armenian highlands, in a huge mountain bowl, framed by picturesque mountain ranges at an altitude of 1,900 m. The area of its water mirror is 940 square meters. km, maximum depth – 95 m.
On the North-Western part of the lake, on a narrow rocky Peninsula, there is a prominent monument of Armenian early medieval architecture – the Sevanavank monastery. In those early days, the Peninsula was a lonely island. It was separated from the shore by about 3 km of clear water, where there were a lot of fish, which was the trade of the monastic monastery. The monks settled here at the end of the VIII century, built a chapel and several cells.
Dilijan is a large city in Armenia, which has the status of a mountain climate and balneological resort. It is located in Tavush Marz in the valley of the river Aghstev, at a height of at 1,258-1,510 m amidst coniferous forests. The center of Dilijan is located on the right Bank of the Agstev river, where its residential quarters and shops are concentrated. There is also a restored quarter of “Old Dilijan” – a historical building with architectural elements typical of Dilijan-dormers, wooden balconies with carved railings, window and door borders. This block is also being recreated
The Haghartsin complex is located high in the wooded mountains where eagles are found, and the name of the monastery is translated from Armenian as “game of eagles”. The image of an eagle-a proud strong bird-is often found in the walls of Agartsin. Thus, the sculptural group of the Eastern facade of the Church of Surb Astvatsin (Holy mother of God) depicts two men in monastic attire and an eagle sitting on the dome of the Church.
Night in Yerevan
7 Day: Yerevan city-tour
Breakfast
Yerevan is the oldest city, which is 29 years older than Rome, but at the same time it is always young. It is rich in culture and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Going on a walking tour of the capital of Armenia, we will plunge into the incredible atmosphere of the city.
Night in Yerevan
8 Day: Garni-Geghard-Shooping(Vernisage-Gum market)
Breakfast
The temple of Garni is the only standing Greek-Roman building with a colonnade in Armenia and the former Soviet Union. Built in the ionic order in the village of Garni, Armenia, it is the most famous structure and symbol of pre-Christian Armenia. This structure was probably built by king Tiridates I in the first century ad, as a temple to the sun God Mihr.
Geghard is a medieval monastery in the Kotayk province of Armenia, partially carved out of a nearby mountain and surrounded by rocks. It is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.
In the very center of Yerevan, not far from Republic Square, there is a colorful fair “Vernissage” — a favorite place of tourists and guests of the capital. Artists, craftsmen, jewelers, seamstresses and potters bring their amazing works here, and every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am, you can buy any Souvenirs and works of art you like. If you want to buy something to remember Armenia by, feel free to send it to the “Vernissage”, as you are unlikely to leave here empty-handed. They sell paintings, jewelry, wood products, magnets, musical instruments, national Souvenirs, carpets, national costumes, semi-precious stones, rarities, and much more much more.
“GUM” is a colorful market filled with aromas, smiles, strange delicious goods and real excitement of trade. It has its own charm, which is difficult to describe in words, it must be tasted. It has its own chip, walking through the market, sellers and try to treat and pita bread, and wine, and cheese, and fruit. Apricots, peaches, grapes, apples, cherries, plums, watermelons, melons, pomegranates — you will be surprised by the variety of local fruits and affordability. No Armenian feast is complete without basturma and sujukh. They will be a great addition to a fine red wine. There is a wide selection of meat products that can be purchased directly from the manufacturer. At the same place you can find fresh greens, a huge selection of Armenian cheeses, spices and pita bread, of which will have a real Armenian brtech. Sujukh is not only dry, sharp and salty, but also sweet, because it is also prepared from nuts and grape juice. Sweet lovers will be particularly pleased with “Armenian Snickers”. Along with sweet sujuho, your eyes and sense of smell will be pleased with the abundance of dried fruits, iridescent with all the colors of the rainbow. Don’t forget to buy Alani — dried peaches stuffed with crushed walnuts with sugar and spices, and treat yourself to nut mixes mixed with raisins.
Night in Yerevan
9 Day: Khor-Virap-Noravank-Jermuk
Brekfast
Armenia is a < < rich > > country. It is known for its churches, monastic complexes, natural and historical attractions, but in this list it is impossible not to highlight one unique place – the monastery of Khor Virap. The monastery is located near the Turkish border, at the foot of the biblical mount Ararat, where, according to legend, Noah appeared on the ark after the flood. This tour will give You the opportunity to enjoy the amazing view of Ararat-the sacred mountain of all Armenians.The name Khor Virap translates as < < deep dungeon>>, where the first Catholicos of all Armenians, Gregory the Illuminator, spent 14 years.And this is where the baptism of Armenia began, and it is known that it was the first to adopt Christianity, even before Rome.
The two-story Noravank monastery is famous for its incredible beauty, which you will also be able to get acquainted with during our tour. The monastery is located in the deepest part of the city a stunning scenic rocky gorge surrounded by steep red rocks. This place has been considered sacred since the early middle ages and still attracts a huge number of tourists from all over the world.
The healing mineral waters of Jermuk will help you return to a healthy life. The mild climate, rich vegetation, moderate humidity and other conditions will help you relax and take your mind off everyday worries. This is why this place is a first-class resort area for everyone.
Night in Yerevan
10 Day: Saghmosavank-Armenian Alphabet Monument
Breakfast
The tour starts with a visit to the Sagmosavank monastery, which is surrounded by mount Aragats, mount Ara and the deep Kasakh gorge. In Armenian, “Samos” means “Psalm”, “wank” “the monastery”. The monastery complex of sagmosavank is one of the most important spiritual and cultural centers of the middle ages. According to legend, this magnificent monastery was founded by Gregory the Illuminator, after he left the post of Catholicos, on a projecting terrace at an altitude of 1620 m. The name of the monastery was given because of the collection of Psalms written in the monastery. Sagmosavank is located above a high gorge near the Kasakh river and the panorama from this height is simply breathtaking
On the road to Amberd there is a Monument to the Armenian alphabet-a complex consisting of 39 letters of the Armenian alphabet, which was invented in 405 and was used to create ancient, medieval and modern Armenian manuscripts. All the letters and statues are made of Armenian tuff. Armenian letters are considered an integral factor of national pride and identity; they are often not only a decorative element, but also a sacred symbol of the nation along with the flag and coat of arms.
Night in Tbilisi
11 Day: Shavnabada-Rustaveli avenue-Dry bridge
Breakfast
Shavnabad monastery-a medieval Georgian Original monastery was built in the 12th century, and renovated in the 17th century. In the past, monasteries and churches of this kind were built on strategically important sites. During various invasions, these churches and monasteries may have lit a fire to signal an attack.
Rustaveli Avenue is the main and most ceremonial street in Tbilisi. It is named after the medieval Georgian poet Shota Rustaveli. The total length of the Avenue, which stretches from Freedom square to Rustaveli square, is about 1.5 km. Plane trees are planted on both sides of the Avenue. The Avenue is adjacent to the April 9 Park.
“Dry bridge” is a real flea market in the center of the Georgian capital, which can literally drag a lover of antiquities and Antiques for a long time. A huge and diverse assortment of Antiques, antique jewelry, books of Soviet times and Georgian literature, various maps, badges, posters, Cutlery and much more.
Night in Tbilisi
12 Day: Transfer to the airport
Transfer to the airport Tbilisi
Rates includes:
- 7 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Tbilisi hotel 3*: City Inn, Shine Palace / or hotel 4* Tbilisi Inn , Just inn
*Other hotels by the request - 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Yerevan hotel 3*: Bomo Nairi 3* / or hotel 4*: Imperial Palace
*Other hotels by the request - High-quality guide service
- Transport services during the tour
- Transfer: aiport Tbilisi-hotel Tbilisi-airport Tbilisi
- Excursion: Tbilisi city-tour-Mtskheta-Jvari
- Excursion: Ananuri-Gudauri-Gergeti church
- Excursion: Signaghi-Bodbe-Tsinandali
- Excursion: Uplistsikhe-Borjomi
- Excursion: Yerevan city-tour
- Excursion: Garni-Geghard-Shopping
- Excursion: Khor-Virap-Noravank-Djermuk
- Excursion: Saghmosavank-Alphabet monument-Sadakhlo
- Excursion: Rustaveli avenue-Dry bridge-Shavnabada
- Entrance tickets: Narikhala cable car, Uplistikhe, Borjomi national park, Tsinandali estate, Garni temple
- Wine tasting at Tsinandali estate
- Rise on jeep to Gergeti church
- Bottle of drinking water for every day
Rate doesn’t include:
- Extra meals and drinks
- Extra tours
- Souvenirs