Treasures of the Caucasus: Armenia and Georgia in 9 Days

Itinerario

Day 1 - Transfer from Zvartnots Airport to Yerevan

Total road distance for the day - 13KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes We carry out the transfer according to the scheduled arrival time. Road 13KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes

Day 2 - Yerevan - City Tour Yerevan - Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial - Victory Park - Garni - Geghard - Yerevan

Total road distance for the day - 81KM 1 Hour and 45 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 0KM 0 Hours and 0 Minutes

City Tour of Yerevan

A city tour of the centre of Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia, is the best way to discover its rich history and culture. Set in the Ararat Valley, this city blends Soviet architecture, modern boulevards, and ancient monuments such as the emblematic Republic Square and the impressive Cascade. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, open-air cafés, and views of Mount Ararat, Yerevan is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. During our visit we will stroll through its lively streets, explore historic landmarks, and enjoy genuine Armenian hospitality as we taste local delicacies and experience the unique essence of this fascinating city. Road 5KM 0 Hours and 10 Minutes

Armenian Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide Museum, located in the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex in Yerevan, is a solemn place dedicated to the remembrance and education about the Armenian Genocide of 1915. This museum presents documents, photographs, and testimonies that recount the tragic events and the resistance of the Armenian people. Its modern architectural design and hillside location overlooking the city enhance the atmosphere of reflection and respect. During our visit we will walk through the moving exhibitions, honour the memory of the victims, and deepen our understanding of this important chapter in history and its impact on Armenian identity. Road 9KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes

Tsitsernakaberd - Victory Park

Built on a hill overlooking Yerevan, the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial is a solemn monument to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. This memorial complex, inaugurated in 1967, consists of a 44-metre needle symbolising the rebirth of the Armenian people, and a circle of twelve inclined basalt slabs surrounding an eternal flame. The complex includes the Genocide Museum Institute, which holds important historical documents and testimonies. The surrounding park, known as Victory Park, complements the memorial with its avenue of memorial trees, where statesmen from around the world have planted trees as a sign of solidarity. During our visit we will walk through the memorial in quiet reverence, observe the eternal flame burning in memory of the victims, and reflect on history while enjoying the impressive view of Mount Ararat from the gardens. Road 31KM 0 Hours and 55 Minutes

Garni

Garni, located in the Kotayk region of Armenia, is an emblematic destination known for its 1st-century pagan temple, unique in the South Caucasus. Built in honour of the god Mihr, this Hellenistic temple is an extraordinary example of ancient Armenian architecture. Surrounded by impressive landscapes, including the gorge of the Azat River and the famous ""Symphony of Stones"", Garni combines history, culture, and nature in a spectacular setting. During our visit we will explore the temple, admire the unique acoustics of the site, and hike through the gorge to discover the rock formations that make Garni an unforgettable destination. Road 10KM 0 Hours and 15 Minutes

Geghard

Geghard, located in the Kotayk region of Armenia, is a medieval monastery declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 4th century and partly carved into the rock, this sacred site is distinguished by its impressive architecture that unites nature and art. Its name, meaning 'Monastery of the Lance', relates to the relic said to have pierced Christ's side. Surrounded by mountain landscapes and a mystical atmosphere, Geghard is a symbol of Armenian spirituality. During our visit we will walk through the chapels carved into the rock, admire the intricate engravings, and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings as we discover its deep history and significance. Road 26KM 0 Hours and 40 Minutes

Day 3 - Yerevan - Echmiadzin - Zvartnots - Oshakan - Amberd - Yerevan

Total road distance for the day - 92KM 2 Hours and 26 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 21KM 0 Hours and 45 Minutes

Echmiadzin

Echmiadzin, known as the Holy See of the Armenian Apostolic Church, is one of Armenia's holiest cities. Located in the Armavir region, it houses the Cathedral of Echmiadzin, considered the oldest Christian church in the world, built in the 4th century. This important spiritual and cultural centre is distinguished by its impressive architecture and rich heritage that reflects Armenia's deep Christian history. It is an unmissable destination for history and religion enthusiasts. During our visit we will explore the majestic cathedral, discover religious treasures, and immerse ourselves in the sacred atmosphere of this unique place. Road 10KM 0 Hours and 5 Minutes

Zvartnots Temple

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the majestic Temple of Zvartnots was built in the 7th century near Echmiadzin in Armenia and represents the pinnacle of medieval Armenian architecture. This unique monument, whose name means 'Temple of the Vigilant Angels', was distinguished by its innovative three-storey circular design that reached a height of 45 metres and set new architectural standards of its time. Although it now lies in ruins following its collapse in the 10th century due to an earthquake, its imposing remains, finely carved capitals, and pioneering use of arches and vaults attest to the sophistication of ancient Armenia. During our exploration we will walk among the massive columns that once supported this architectural wonder, admire the delicate vine and pomegranate reliefs, and transport ourselves to the splendour of the ancient Armenian kingdom as Mount Ararat appears on the horizon. Road 18KM 0 Hours and 28 Minutes

Oshakan

Oshakan, located in the Aragatsotn region of Armenia, is a place of great cultural and spiritual significance, known as the final resting place of Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet. Its main church, dedicated to Saint Mesrop Mashtots and built in the 5th century, is an important pilgrimage site. Surrounded by vineyards and peaceful landscapes, Oshakan is a destination that combines history, faith, and tradition in an enchanting setting. During our visit we will explore the historic church, learn about the invention of the Armenian alphabet, and enjoy the tranquillity of this place filled with cultural symbolism. Road 11KM 0 Hours and 18 Minutes

Amberd

Perched at 2,300 metres on the slopes of Mount Aragats in Armenia, Amberd Fortress is an extraordinary 7th-century military construction that dominates the surrounding landscape with its imposing basalt walls. This "castle in the clouds" (the literal meaning of its name) is a masterpiece of medieval Armenian military architecture, complemented by an 11th-century church and a sophisticated water supply system. During our visit we will climb to the fortress along ancient paths, explore its mysterious ruins as clouds drift around us, and marvel at the impressive views of Mount Ararat and the Ararat Valley below. Road 32KM 0 Hours and 50 Minutes

Day 4 - Yerevan - Saghmosavank - Haghpat - Sanahin - Sadakhlo - Tbilisi

Total road distance for the day - 301KM 5 Hours and 53 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 32KM 0 Hours and 45 Minutes

Saghmosavank

Perched high above the spectacular gorge of the Kasagh River in the Aragatsotn province of Armenia, Saghmosavank Monastery is an architectural jewel from the 13th century. This medieval monastic complex is distinguished by its exceptional manuscript library and its gavit adorned with intricate reliefs, and is considered one of the finest examples of Armenian cultural flourishing under the Zakarian dynasty. Its strategic location above the gorge and its distinctive red volcanic stone make it a unique testimony to Armenian religious architecture. During our visit we will admire the panoramic views over the gorge stretching to Mount Aragats, explore the ancient manuscript halls, and feel the spiritual energy that permeates every corner of this sacred precinct. Road 136KM 2 Hours and 25 Minutes

Monasteries of Sanahin

Sanahin Monastery, located in the Lori region of Armenia, is an extraordinary medieval monastic complex declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, Sanahin was an important centre for education and spirituality. Its architecture combines delicate stonework, khachkars (stone crosses), and majestic churches, surrounded by a mountain landscape that enhances its atmosphere of tranquillity. This site reflects Armenia's cultural and religious heritage. During our visit we will explore its historic churches, admire the intricate stonework, and enjoy the natural surroundings that make Sanahin a deeply spiritual and captivating place. Road 16KM 0 Hours and 30 Minutes

Haghpat Monastery

Haghpat Monastery, located in the Lori region of Armenia, is a jewel of medieval architecture declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 10th century, this monastery is distinguished by its harmonious design featuring churches, khachkars, and a library that reflect Armenia's cultural and spiritual renaissance in the Middle Ages. Set in a mountain landscape, Haghpat combines spirituality with a rich historical heritage that attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world. During our visit we will explore the detailed stonework, discover the historical treasures, and enjoy the panoramic views that make Haghpat an unforgettable place. Road 43KM 0 Hours and 55 Minutes

Sadakhlo

Border formalities Armenia-Georgia, change of transport and guide. Road 74KM 1 Hour and 18 Minutes

Day 5 - Tbilisi - Spanish-guided city tour

No road distance After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned:

Rustaveli Avenue

Rustaveli Avenue, the main artery of Tbilisi, stretches 1.5 kilometres from Freedom Square to Republic Square. This emblematic street, named after the medieval poet Shota Rustaveli, houses the city's most prestigious buildings, including the Parliament of Georgia, the Opera Theatre, and the National Museum, all built in the neoclassical and Art Nouveau styles of the 19th century. During our stroll we will enjoy the vibrant Georgian cultural life, stop at its elegant historic cafés, and admire the monumental architecture as we explore the numerous shops and art galleries.  

Metekhi Square

Metekhi Square, one of the most historically significant places in Tbilisi, rises on a cliff with a privileged view of the Mtkvari River. This landmark is dominated by the 13th-century church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of the city. The square was for centuries the seat of the royal palace and established itself as a strategic and cultural centre. Although the original church was built in the 5th century, the current structure is a 13th-century reconstruction. During our tour we will enjoy the impressive panoramic views of the old town and the famous bath district. We will also explore the Metekhi Church and delve into the fascinating history of the king who, with his vision, established Tbilisi as the capital of Georgia, forging one of the most representative sites of Georgian heritage.  

Narikala Fortress

Narikala Fortress, the iconic symbol of Tbilisi, has dominated the city's skyline since the 4th century. This ancient citadel, originally Persian and later expanded by Arabs and Georgians, rises on a steep hill overlooking the Mtkvari River and the old town. Its imposing walls and towers bore witness to the various civilisations that ruled Georgia, including the rebuilt St Nicholas Church from the 12th century. During our visit we will take the cable car up to the fortress, walk along its ancient defensive walls, and capture impressive panoramic views of Tbilisi as the sun sets over the city.  

Abanotubani

Abanotubani, the historic sulphur bath district in the heart of old Tbilisi, represents the original core where the Georgian capital was founded. Located on the right bank of the Mtkvari, this neighbourhood is known for its distinctive sulphur baths with brick domes that protrude from the ground, witnesses to over 1,500 years of history. The natural thermal waters that bubble up from the depths of the earth maintain a constant temperature of 37–40°C, and their healing properties have attracted illustrious visitors such as Alexander Pushkin and Alexandre Dumas. During our visit we will stroll through these streets with legendary thermal waters and lose ourselves in the picturesque medieval alleyways that wind between the baths, breathing in the most authentic spirit of old Tbilisi.  

Anchiskhati

The Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in Tbilisi, is a living testament to Georgia's Christian history since the 6th century. Located in the heart of the old town, this sandstone church dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary owes its name to the miraculous icon of Christ (Anchiskhati) that it housed for centuries. Its three-nave basilica architecture, typically Georgian, is complemented by medieval frescoes and a 17th-century bell tower. During our exploration we will partake in the mystical atmosphere of the temple, listen to the ancient Georgian polyphonic chants that still echo within its walls, and admire the craftsmanship of its traditional icons.  

Day 6 - Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe

Total road distance for the day - 245KM 3 Hours and 33 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 25KM 0 Hours and 36 Minutes

Jvari - Monastery of the Cross

Jvari Monastery, known as the "Monastery of the Cross", is an iconic religious monument near Mtskheta, Georgia, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on a hilltop in the 6th century, this monastery offers impressive panoramic views of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Considered a masterpiece of medieval Georgian architecture, it is regarded as a sacred site symbolising Georgia's adoption of Christianity. During our visit we will explore its unique architectural design, enjoy the spectacular views, and learn more about its deep historical and spiritual significance. Road 13KM 0 Hours and 18 Minutes

Svetitskhoveli

The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, located in the ancient capital of Mtskheta, is the spiritual heart of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. This majestic 11th-century cathedral, built on the site where Christ's robe is said to be buried, is an outstanding example of medieval Georgian architecture with its tall ornate stone facade, central dome, and historic frescoes. During our exploration we will discover the many legends surrounding this sacred site, admire the extraordinary ecclesiastical architecture, and experience the ancient religious traditions that are still alive in this spiritual centre. Road 61KM 1 Hour and 5 Minutes

Uplistsikhe

Located in the Kartli region of central Georgia, Uplistsikhe is an ancient rock-hewn cave city dating back to the first millennium BC. This extraordinary archaeological complex, considered one of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus, was an important religious and commercial centre on the historic Silk Road. Its architectural structures include pagan temples, Christian basilicas, and civic buildings that reflect the unique fusion of Christian and pagan styles. The city is distinguished by its street system, secret tunnels, and an exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre. During our visit we will explore the ancient wine cellars, walk through streets carved in stone, and marvel at the panoramic views of the Mtkvari River from the top of this natural acropolis, taking us through more than 3,000 years of Caucasian history. Road 14KM 0 Hours and 20 Minutes

Stalin Museum

The Stalin Museum in Gori, the birthplace of the controversial Soviet leader, is one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Josef Stalin. The complex includes the original birthplace, a building in the Soviet palace style, and Stalin's personal railway carriage. The exhibition houses an extensive collection of personal objects, photographs, historical documents, and the original death mask of the dictator. During our visit we will explore the halls documenting Stalin's life from his youth in Georgia to his Soviet leadership, examine his luxurious armoured railway carriage, and reflect on the complex historical legacy he left in the region. Road 84KM 1 Hour and 14 Minutes

Borjomi

Nestled in the picturesque Mtkvari Valley in central Georgia, Borjomi is a legendary spa destination, world-renowned for its healing mineral waters that spring naturally hot from the depths of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This elegant resort town, which reached its peak during the Russian Imperial era of the 19th century, preserves magnificent imperial-style villas and extensive historic parks. Its mineral water, bottled since 1890, is considered a Georgian national treasure and has been prized for centuries for its medicinal properties. During our stay we will stroll through the romantic mineral park, taste the thermal waters directly from the historic springs, and explore the pristine trails of the national park, one of the largest in Europe. Road 48KM 0 Hours and 55 Minutes

Day 7 - Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Bavra - Gyumri

Total road distance for the day - 193KM 4 Hours and 5 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 60KM 1 Hour and 20 Minutes

Vardzia

Carved into the vertical face of Mount Erusheli, Vardzia emerges as an impressive 12th-century rock monastery city, symbol of the cultural peak of medieval Georgia during the reign of Queen Tamar. This monastic complex extends over 500 metres and reaches up to 19 storeys in height, with over 600 rooms including churches, wine cellars, libraries, and a sophisticated system of tunnels and irrigation. The site is particularly distinguished by the Church of the Dormition, which preserves extraordinary 12th-century frescoes, including a famous portrait of Queen Tamar. During our exploration we will pass through the tunnels and secret staircases that connect the various chambers, discover ancient wine cellars, and stand in awe before the medieval frescoes that have survived earthquakes and centuries of history in this rock-hewn architectural jewel.  

Bavra

Border formalities Armenia-Georgia, change of transport and guide.

Day 8 - Gyumri - City Tour Gyumri - Dilijan Old Town - Sevan - Yerevan

Total road distance for the day - 195KM 3 Hours and 10 Minutes After breakfast at the hotel we begin our adventure. The following visits are planned: Road 0KM 0 Hours and 0 Minutes

City Tour of Gyumri

Gyumri, Armenia's second largest city, lies in the fertile Shirak plain and is a cultural and historical treasure that reflects the country's rich heritage. This ancient city, formerly known as Alexandropol and Leninakan, preserves an impressive collection of 19th-century architecture in its distinctive black tuff stone style, despite the devastating earthquakes that have marked its history. The historic centre, known as Kumayri, captivates with its cobbled streets, stately buildings, and the splendid Church of the Holy Apostles. During our stroll through its historic streets we will explore the lively local markets, sample the authentic Shirak cuisine in traditional restaurants, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant artistic atmosphere that has made Gyumri Armenia's cultural capital.

Dilijan

Known as the ""Little Switzerland of Armenia", Dilijan is a charming resort town in the Tavush province in northern Armenia. Surrounded by the dense forested mountains of Dilijan National Park, covering more than 24,000 hectares of lush nature, this historic town is distinguished by its traditional Armenian architecture with wooden and stone houses from the 19th century lining its winding streets. These carefully preserved buildings feature the characteristic carved balconies and ornate windows that reflect the rich craft tradition of the region. The town was for centuries an important cultural and health centre, famous for its healing mineral waters and pure mountain air, which attracted artists, composers, and writers in search of inspiration. Dilijan's unique microclimate, characterised by cool summers and mild winters, together with its well-known bicarbonate- and calcium-rich mineral springs, has made the town a preferred health tourism destination since Soviet times. During our stay we will stroll through the picturesque restored old town, where every corner tells a story of traditional Armenia, taste the famous local mineral waters at historic fountains, and venture along forest paths leading to centuries-old monasteries. The well-marked trails of the national park offer routes for all levels, from gentle walks to challenging mountain hikes, allowing us to experience the perfect fusion of nature and Armenian culture. We will also have the opportunity to visit local craft workshops, where master artisans continue to practise traditional techniques passed down through the generations.

Day 9 - Transfer from Yerevan to Zvartnots Airport

We carry out the transfer according to the scheduled departure time. Road 13KM 0 Hours and 25 Minutes