Discover Armenia: Tbilisi- Akhpat-Dilijan-Sevan-Yerevan-Tbilisi

Discover Armenia: Tbilisi- Akhpat-Dilijan-Sevan-Yerevan-Tbilisi

Priced at $112 per person, this full-day guided tour from Tbilisi offers an immersive experience of Armenia’s most notable sights. With a duration of approximately 17 hours, the tour is designed for those eager to see multiple UNESCO sites, scenic landscapes, and vibrant city life in just one day. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The tour departs early at 7:00 am from Alani1 Vakhtang Gorgasali St, Tbilisi, with seamless hotel transfers available upon request. The price includes Wi-Fi on the air-conditioned vehicle, guide service, and admission tickets to Sevanavank Monastery.

While the trip covers a long distance and involves several stops, the experience is praised for its organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to enjoy stunning landscapes and historic sites. It is ideal for travelers with limited time in the region who want a comprehensive glimpse of Armenia’s highlights.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour from Tbilisi at $112 per person.
• Visits to UNESCO-listed monasteries, Lake Sevan, and Yerevan landmarks.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
• Includes admission tickets to Sevanavank Monastery and other key sites.
• Group capped at 15 travelers for an intimate experience.
• Tour duration is around 17 hours, with some long travel times involved.

Starting Point and Transportation Comfort

The tour begins early at 7:00 am at Alani1 Vakhtang Gorgasali St, Tbilisi, with hotel pickups available. Travelers travel in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, which ensures comfort during the long drive. The transportation is praised for its reliable driver and smooth ride, with some reviews highlighting the driver’s storytelling and friendly attitude.

Visiting the Historic Haghpat Monastery

The tour first stops at Haghpat Monastery, founded in 976 by Queen Khosrovanush. This UNESCO-listed site features a complex of buildings, including a vestibule, sepulchral corridors, refectory, scriptorium, bell tower, and chapels. Visitors can explore the ancient tombs and Khachkar crosses, appreciating the architectural beauty and historical significance. The stop lasts about an hour, and admission is free.

Lake Sevan and the Lakeside Restaurant Experience

Next, the group visits Lake Sevan, one of Armenia’s most famous sights. The tour includes time at a large lakeside restaurant with spectacular views of the lake. Here, you’ll taste local products of Lake Sevan, which are renowned for their freshness and flavor. This lakeside stop lasts about an hour and is a perfect chance to appreciate the scenic beauty and local cuisine.

Exploring Sevanavank Monastery on the Peninsula

The Sevanavank Monastery is a highlight of the day. Built at the end of the 9th century, this monastery sits atop the Sevan Peninsula, offering panoramic views of Lake Sevan. The complex includes the church of St. Karapet and the Holy Read. Visitors admire the carved wooden door depicting the Descent of the Holy Spirit, one of the rare artifacts. The site features a unique khachkar with images of Jesus and gospel illustrations. The admission ticket is included, and the visit lasts about an hour.

The Victory Park and Mother Armenia Monument

Next, travelers head to Victory Park, where the Mother Armenia monument stands as a symbol of national pride. This observation deck offers spectacular views of Yerevan and the surrounding landscape. The Mother Armenia statue is a prominent feature, and the park provides a photo-worthy vantage point. The visit lasts around 30 minutes, and entry is free.

Discovering Yerevan’s Modern Art and City Center

The tour continues with a visit to the Modern Art Museum of Yerevan, known as Cascades. This architectural landmark overlooks the city and offers views of Mount Ararat from the top. The 40-minute visit includes free access to the Cascades complex, where visitors can enjoy contemporary sculptures and art installations.

Next, Republic Square becomes the focus. The group explores its beautiful fountain, surrounding historic buildings, and the lively shopping street. The one-hour stop offers a chance for photos and local observations. Admission to the square is included.

Return Journey and Practical Details

The tour concludes with a return to Tbilisi, approximately around 11:00 pm, with the group assembled at Ushba Travel’s office at Vakhtang Gorgasali 3. The driver’s storytelling and local insights are frequently praised during the long drive back, although some reviews mention the journey’s length as tiring.

The Guide and Group Experience

Guides such as Moris and Paata are highly praised for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly attitude. They handle border crossings and local logistics skillfully, helping guests navigate long travel times and border formalities. Many reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling, attention to detail, and willingness to assist with logistics.

Food and Dining Considerations

The included stops at lakeside restaurants and cafes offer local products and scenic dining, though some reviews mention the quality and pricing of restaurant food. Quick service or quick stops are typical, with quick food options filling the itinerary. It’s recommended to prepare for limited meal times and consider bringing snacks for the long day.

Practical Tips and Travel Pacing

The long travel hours—around 17 hours overall—are a common feature. Some reviews note the intense pace, with a lot of sightseeing in a single day. For those with more time, spreading visits over multiple days might be preferable. The early start and late return should be considered, especially for travelers concerned about long hours on the road.

Overall Value and Suitability

This tour offers excellent value for exploring Armenia’s most important sites in just one day. It is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing, particularly those short on time or visiting Tbilisi and wanting a comprehensive Armenia experience. The small group size enhances the experience, enabling personalized interaction and flexibility.

Final Thoughts on the Discover Armenia Tour

The full-day tour from Tbilisi combines scenic landscapes, UNESCO monuments, and city highlights into a single, well-organized package. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation help make the long day manageable and engaging. While the extensive travel means the day can be tiring, the rich variety of sites and local insights make it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a broad overview of Armenia’s cultural and natural treasures in a short amount of time. It offers a balance of history, scenery, and city exploration, making it a practical choice for curious travelers seeking depth in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves some walking at sites like Haghpat Monastery and Sevanavank, but overall, it is accessible for most travelers with moderate mobility.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, guide service, Wi-Fi, and admission tickets to Sevanavank Monastery. Meals and personal expenses are not included.

How long is the total driving time?
The entire experience lasts approximately 17 hours, with significant time spent traveling between stops and crossing borders.

Can hotel transfers be arranged?
Yes, hotel transfers are available on request, making the start and end of the trip more convenient.

What are the main highlights of the trip?
Key highlights include Haghpat Monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank Monastery, Mother Armenia monument, and the city sights of Yerevan like the Cascade and Republic Square.

Are there any recommended preparations?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and snacks for the long day. Be prepared for border crossings, which may involve some waiting.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier group management.

What is the main limitation of this tour?
The long duration and tight schedule mean less time at each site, especially in Yerevan, making it better suited for those who prefer comprehensive sightseeing over leisure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, most sites are suitable for older kids who can walk and tolerate long hours in a vehicle.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is simple, with most bookings made 36 days in advance. Confirmations are received within 48 hours after booking.