Activities – City Tour
Republic Square
Activities – Republic Square, also known as “Hanrapetutyan Hraparak,” is the vibrant heart of Yerevan, Armenia’s capital city. Designed by renowned Armenian architect Alexander Tamanian, this iconic square embodies a harmonious blend of traditional Armenian architecture and modern functionality. Constructed in the early 20th century, Republic Square has become a symbol of national pride and a hub for cultural, social, and political events.
The square is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Government House, the National History Museum, the Marriott Hotel, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These structures, built with local pink and yellow tuff stone, create a stunning visual display, especially when illuminated at night.
A centerpiece of Republic Square is its iconic musical fountains, which present captivating light and water shows that attract locals and tourists alike. The square is a popular gathering place, hosting concerts, festivals, and celebrations, including Armenia’s Independence Day events.
Republic Square is more than a public space; it is a living testament to Armenia’s history, resilience, and culture. Whether you’re marveling at its architecture, enjoying the fountains, or attending a vibrant event, Republic Square offers a memorable experience at the crossroads of history and modernity.
The Cascade Complex
Activities – The Cascade Complex, often referred to as the “Cascad Skyline,” is one of Yerevan, Armenia’s most iconic landmarks. Nestled at the foot of the city’s vibrant Kentron district, this monumental stairway offers a stunning fusion of architectural brilliance, cultural significance, and breathtaking views. Constructed in the 1970s and continually evolving, the Cascade connects Yerevan’s downtown to the Victory Park atop a hill.
The complex features a series of grand staircases, fountains, and flowerbeds, with each level adorned by sculptures and artworks, many contributed by the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. This open-air museum showcases contemporary art against a backdrop of panoramic views of the city, including the majestic Mount Ararat on clear days.
Visitors can ascend the steps for an invigorating experience or take the escalators inside, exploring exhibitions as they go. At the top, Victory Park offers serene green spaces and additional attractions.
The Cascade Skyline is not just a destination but a cultural journey, blending Yerevan’s past and future. Whether you’re admiring art installations, enjoying the café-lined terraces, or soaking in the unparalleled views, the Cascade Skyline is a must-visit for anyone exploring Armenia’s capital.
Ancient History Tour
Khor Virap
Activities – Khor Virap is one of Armenia’s most treasured historical and spiritual sites, offering visitors a unique blend of religious significance, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes. Located near the Turkish border, it stands against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Ararat, creating an iconic and picturesque scene.
The monastery’s name, meaning “deep dungeon,” reflects its origin story. Khor Virap is where Holy person Gregory the Illuminator was detained for quite a long time in a profound underground pit for spreading Christianity. His eventual release and miraculous healing of King Tiridates III led to Armenia becoming the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD.
Visitors can explore the underground dungeon, accessible via a narrow ladder, and feel the profound history embedded in its walls. The site also features a charming chapel and a larger cathedral built in later centuries, embodying traditional Armenian architecture.
Beyond its historical and religious significance, Khor Virap offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Ararat, making it a favorite spot for photographers and pilgrims alike. Its serene atmosphere and rich legacy make Khor Virap not just a place of worship, but a powerful symbol of Armenia’s cultural and spiritual identity.
Noravank
Activities – Noravank, a stunning 13th-century monastery, is one of Armenia’s architectural and spiritual treasures. Nestled in a narrow gorge of the Amaghu River, near the town of Yeghegnadzor, it is renowned for its dramatic setting amidst red rock cliffs and its intricate medieval design. The name “Noravank” means “New Monastery,” and it has been a center of cultural and religious life for centuries.
The monastery complex consists of several structures, including the main church, Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), and Surb Karapet Church. Surb Astvatsatsin, built in 1339 by the famous architect and sculptor Momik, is especially admired for its unique two-story design and intricate carvings. The church’s facade is adorned with ornate reliefs depicting biblical themes, saints, and intricate patterns, showcasing the artistry of Armenian medieval architecture.
Noravank is also closely tied to the Orbelian princes, who patronized its construction, and it served as a significant religious and cultural center during their reign.
Today, Noravank is a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking history, spirituality, and natural beauty. The encompassing scene, with its dynamic precipices and peaceful feeling, adds to the mysterious appeal of this famous Armenian milestone.
Jungle Safari and Water Adventure
Dilijan National Park
Activities – Dilijan National Park, often called the “Armenian Switzerland,” is a breathtaking natural reserve located in the Tavush Province of Armenia. Spanning over 240 square kilometers, it is renowned for its lush forests, pristine rivers, and diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife lovers.
The park is home to dense oak, beech, and hornbeam forests, interspersed with alpine meadows and serene lakes such as Lake Parz. Its rich biodiversity includes rare plant species and a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and an array of bird species. The picturesque landscapes change dramatically with the seasons, offering vibrant greens in spring and summer, fiery hues in autumn, and snow-blanketed beauty in winter.
Dilijan National Park is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure. It houses several historical landmarks, including ancient monasteries such as Haghartsin and Goshavank, which blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Guests can investigate climbing trails, appreciate picnics by the waterways, or just drench themselves in the serene excellence of the recreation area. Whether for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Dilijan National Park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Armenia’s wilderness.
Lake Sevan
Activities – Lake Sevan, often called the “Pearl of Armenia,” is the largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus region and one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Situated at an altitude of nearly 1,900 meters above sea level, the lake covers approximately 1,240 square kilometers, making it a vital resource for Armenia’s ecosystem and economy.
Surrounded by picturesque mountains, Lake Sevan is a popular destination for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Its azure waters, sandy beaches, and refreshing air draw visitors throughout the year. During summer, the lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and other water sports, while its serene beauty in winter provides a tranquil retreat.
Lake Sevan is also home to historical treasures, such as the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a peninsula offering panoramic views of the lake. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with nearby ancient cemeteries and khachkars (Armenian cross-stones) adding to its historical significance.
In addition to its natural and cultural appeal, Lake Sevan supports Armenia’s fisheries and agriculture. Its unique charm, coupled with its importance to the nation’s history and economy, makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Armenia.
Museum Tour
Armenia’s National Gallery
Activities – Armenia’s National Gallery, located in the heart of Yerevan at Republic Square, is the country’s premier art museum and a cultural treasure trove. Established in 1921, the gallery boasts an impressive collection of over 40,000 artworks, spanning centuries and encompassing Armenian, Russian, and European masterpieces.
The gallery offers visitors a journey through Armenia’s rich artistic heritage, showcasing works from medieval manuscripts to contemporary art. Highlights include the vibrant paintings of Armenian artists such as Martiros Saryan and Minas Avetisyan, whose works capture the essence of Armenian culture, landscapes, and traditions. The gallery also features an extensive collection of Russian classics, including pieces by Ivan Aivazovsky, Ilya Repin, and Vasily Surikov.
International art enthusiasts will appreciate the European section, which includes works by renowned artists such as Jean-Baptiste Greuze and Théodore Rousseau. The collection reflects the gallery’s commitment to preserving and promoting global art history alongside Armenian achievements.
Housed in a grand neoclassical building, the National Gallery offers a serene and inspiring atmosphere for art lovers, researchers, and casual visitors. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into Armenia’s artistic legacy and its place in the broader context of world art.
Zvartnots Cathedral
Activities – Zvartnots Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Armenia’s most iconic architectural marvels, showcasing the brilliance of early medieval Armenian design. Located near Yerevan in the Armavir Province, this 7th-century cathedral was built under the patronage of Catholicos Nerses III, also known as “Nerses the Builder.” Its name, “Zvartnots,” translates to “celestial angels,” reflecting its ethereal design and spiritual significance.
The cathedral was renowned for its innovative circular design, a rarity in Armenian architecture. Its intricate carvings, grand columns, and soaring central dome made it an architectural masterpiece of its time. Though it was destroyed in the 10th century, likely due to an earthquake, the ruins still convey the grandeur and sophistication of the original structure.
Today, Zvartnots Cathedral is a popular tourist and pilgrimage site. Visitors can explore the remnants of its towering columns, beautifully carved capitals, and the surrounding archaeological site, which includes a palace and winepresses.
With Mount Ararat providing a majestic backdrop, the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral offer a poignant glimpse into Armenia’s rich history and enduring cultural legacy, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of ancient architecture.
Ropeway and Snow Adventures
Tsaghkadzor
Activities – Tsaghkadzor, signifying “Valley of Blossoms” in Armenian, is a pleasant town settled in the Kotayk Region of Armenia. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, it is a year-round destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Found roughly 50 kilometers north of Yerevan, Tsaghkadzor flaunts a rich history and shocking scenes, making it a most loved escape for local people and sightseers the same.
The town’s name reflects its natural beauty, with vibrant wildflowers blanketing the area during the spring and summer months. Tsaghkadzor is also home to the scenic slopes of Mount Teghenis, which provide breathtaking views and ample opportunities for hiking and exploration. In autumn, the landscape transforms into a mosaic of golden and crimson hues, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors.
Tsaghkadzor is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the 11th-century Kecharis Monastery Complex. This middle age site includes a few flawlessly protected temples, displaying conventional Armenian engineering and filling in as a demonstration of the town’s verifiable and social importance.
Whether you’re exploring the town’s serene trails, delving into its historical sites, or simply soaking in the fresh mountain air, Tsaghkadzor offers an enchanting escape into Armenia’s natural and cultural heritage.
Tatev Monastery
Activities – Tatev Monastery is one of Armenia’s most iconic landmarks, a stunning example of medieval architecture and a symbol of spiritual and cultural heritage. Located in the Syunik Province, atop a high plateau overlooking the Vorotan Gorge, this 9th-century monastery offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of history.
The complex includes the Church of St. Paul and St. Peter, the Church of St. Gregory, and a variety of auxiliary buildings that once served as an important educational and spiritual center. During its peak in the 14th and 15th centuries, Tatev housed a university that played a crucial role in advancing science, philosophy, and manuscript creation in Armenia.
Tatev Monastery is also known for its engineering marvel, the “Gavazan,” a pillar that tilts during seismic activity, warning of earthquakes and structural shifts. The monastery’s strategic location and architectural ingenuity reflect its resilience through centuries of invasions and natural challenges.
Today, Tatev is open by means of the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible trolley, offering guests an exhilarating excursion over the chasm. Beyond its historical significance, Tatev Monastery is a place of pilgrimage, tranquility, and awe-inspiring beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Armenia.
Winery Tour
Areni Winery
Activities – Areni Winery, located in the picturesque village of Areni in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia, is a celebrated destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This region is often referred to as the cradle of Armenian winemaking, boasting a viticulture tradition that dates back over 6,000 years.
The winery is famous for its production of high-quality wines made from indigenous grape varieties, particularly the Areni Noir grape. Known for its robust flavor and rich aroma, Areni wine reflects the unique terroir of the region, characterized by volcanic soil, high altitudes, and a dry climate that is ideal for grape cultivation.
Visitors to Areni Winery can enjoy guided tours that offer insight into the ancient and modern winemaking techniques employed here. The tours often include tastings of signature wines, allowing guests to savor the distinct flavors and learn about the deep cultural significance of winemaking in Armenia.
The area around the winery is also home to the Areni-1 Cave, where the world’s oldest known winery was discovered. Combining rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional wines, Areni Winery is a must-visit destination for those exploring Armenia’s vibrant winemaking heritage.
Areni grape fields
Activities – The Areni grape fields, settled in the picturesque Vayots Dzor Territory of Armenia, are a demonstration of the country’s old winemaking legacy. These sprawling vineyards are home to the renowned Areni Noir grape, a variety uniquely adapted to the region’s high-altitude climate, volcanic soil, and dry conditions. The grape is celebrated for producing wines with bold flavors, rich aromas, and a distinctive character that embodies the essence of Armenian terroir.
The fields are a vital part of Armenia’s winemaking tradition, which dates back over 6,000 years. Their significance is underscored by the discovery of the Areni-1 Cave, the site of the world’s oldest known winery, located nearby. This historical connection adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the modern cultivation of the Areni grape.
Walking through the Areni grape fields, visitors can witness the meticulous care and traditional techniques employed by local vintners to nurture the vines. The surrounding landscapes, with their rugged mountains and serene beauty, create a perfect backdrop for these ancient vineyards.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a lover of natural beauty, the Areni grape fields offer an unforgettable experience that connects the past, present, and future of Armenia’s winemaking legacy.