From Yerevan: Berd City Trip in the Footsteps of Manunia

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This full-day tour costs $165 per person and lasts approximately 12 hours.
• Starting Point and Group Size: The trip departs from Republic Square in Yerevan and is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a small-group experience.
• Main Highlights: You visit Berd, follow in Manunia’s footsteps, explore the Varagavank Monastery, and walk through Berd’s narrow streets.
• Cultural and Natural Sights: The tour includes stops at Tavush Fortress, Soranner Dendropark, and offers panoramic views of Berd’s greenery and history.
• Guidance and Inclusions: A guide leads the trip, with entrance fees covered, plus a coffee break. Lunch is not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Republic Square for a Scenic Drive through Armenia

The journey begins at Republic Square, where your guide awaits. From here, the trip covers a 12-hour span, including transportation, sightseeing, and walking. The tour provides a comfortable coach ride from Yerevan to the Gegharkunik Province region.

Travelers appreciate the small-group setting with limited to 14 participants, which allows for more personalized attention. The guide speaks Russian and Armenian, offering insight into each stop and the region’s history.

Lake Sevan Stop for Photos and Fresh Air

After departing from Yerevan, the tour makes a brief 10-minute stop at Lake Sevan. This iconic lake offers a beautiful backdrop for photos, with its vast blue surface and surrounding mountains. The quick stop allows travelers to stretch, take pictures, and enjoy the fresh air before heading further into the region.

The scenic views here set the tone for the day’s exploration, emphasizing Armenia’s natural beauty. The stop is brief but well-timed, offering a quick moment of tranquility before continuing the journey.

Exploring Dilijan’s Old Sharambeyan Street and Artisans

Next, the tour reaches Dilijan, famous for its wooden balconies and stone walls. A 30-minute visit to Old Sharambeyan Street reveals picturesque architecture blending carved wooden balconies with traditional stone facades. This area is lively with local artisans working in their workshops, demonstrating Armenian craft traditions.

Travelers often find this part of the trip charming, as it provides a glimpse into Armenia’s handicraft heritage. It’s a chance to see artisans at work and perhaps purchase handmade souvenirs. The visit lasts about 15 minutes, giving enough time to stroll and admire the craftsmanship.

Scenery and Monastery at Ijevan and Varagavank Monastery

The journey then continues through Ijevan, the capital of Tavush, known for its lush greenery. After a 105-minute drive, travelers arrive at the Varagavank Monastery, a medieval architectural jewel set against a verdant forest. The monastery’s medieval design and peaceful setting make it a favorite stop.

Visitors find the monastery’s location particularly striking, with its medieval stonework contrasting beautifully with the surrounding nature. It’s a peaceful spot for photos and reflection, offering insight into Armenia’s religious heritage and history.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch Break in Berd and City Exploration

Following the monastery, the tour stops in Berd, where around 1 hour is allocated for lunch. The schedule allows travelers to enjoy local cuisine, often at a restaurant with views over the city. Afterward, the exploration continues with a walk through Berd’s narrow streets.

Walking here feels like stepping back in time, as most of the city remains unchanged from its historic roots. The former music school now houses the St. John the Baptist Church, adding a unique twist to the town’s scenery.

Following in Manunia’s Footsteps in Berd

A highlight of the tour is walking through Berd’s streets, following the story of Manunia, a beloved character of Armenian literature. The walk allows travelers to connect with local culture and imagine the stories that shaped the city.

The streets are charming and quiet, giving an authentic feel of small-town Armenia. The stroll offers a peaceful pause amid the day’s sightseeing, enriching the experience with cultural stories.

Visiting Medieval Tavush Fortress and Soranner Dendropark

The tour includes visits to the medieval Tavush Fortress, which offers panoramic views over the region. The fortress’s history and architecture provide a tangible sense of Armenia’s defensive past.

Next, travelers explore Soranner Dendropark, a unique botanical garden where trees from around the world grow side by side. This park is a highlight for nature lovers, with a diverse collection of trees and beautiful pathways. It also provides a spectacular view of Berd from above, emphasizing the city’s greenery and history.

Scenic Drive to and from Berd with Multiple Stops

The return journey from Berd includes a 3-hour drive with additional scenic stops. This part of the trip offers plenty of opportunity to relax and absorb the Armenian landscape. The route is carefully planned to balance travel time and sightseeing.

Throughout the day, the guide provides commentary on Armenia’s history, culture, and landscapes, making the long drives informative and engaging.

Logistics and Practical Details for Travelers

The tour departs from Republic Square in Yerevan, with the guide ready to meet guests next to the 7 fountains. The transportation is included, making for a hassle-free day. The trip is designed for small groups, limiting participants to 14, which fosters a more intimate experience.

Entrance fees and a coffee break are included, but lunch is not covered, allowing flexibility for travelers to choose their preferred meal options. The tour operates with live guides speaking Russian and Armenian, ensuring clear explanations of the sites visited.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Armenia Day Trips

This trip emphasizes the region of Berd and Tavush, offering a mix of cultural sights, historic sites, and natural beauty. The focus on Manunia’s story adds a literary and cultural layer to the exploration of Berd.

The small-group size enhances the experience, allowing for more meaningful interaction with the guide and better access to less crowded spots. Plus, the inclusion of medieval monasteries, fortresses, and botanical parks makes this a comprehensive day trip for those interested in Armenia’s history and landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Berd City Trip in the Footsteps of Manunia

This 12-hour guided tour from Yerevan provides a balanced mix of nature, culture, and history. The scenic drives along Lake Sevan and through the Tavush region are complemented by stops at historic monasteries and the charming city of Berd.

While the lunch is not included, many travelers find the flexibility allows for personal choice, and local eateries often serve delicious Armenian cuisine. The small group size and expert guide ensure a comfortable, engaging experience.

This trip is ideal for those who want to discover Armenia’s greener side, explore medieval sites, and enjoy authentic small-town charm. It offers a well-rounded day that highlights Berd’s unique atmosphere and the natural beauty of the Tavush region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Yerevan?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours and includes transportation, sightseeing, and walking.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $165 per person, covering transportation, entrance fees, and a guide.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, providing flexibility to choose where to eat in Berd.

What language does the guide speak?
The guide speaks Russian and Armenian, offering explanations and insights in both languages.

What are the main highlights of the trip?
Highlights include Berd city, Varagavank Monastery, Tavush Fortress, Soranner Dendropark, and following Manunia’s story.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 14 participants for a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Republic Square in Yerevan, next to the 7 fountains.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees to all sites are covered in the ticket price.

How long is the stop at Lake Sevan?
The stop at Lake Sevan lasts about 10 minutes for photos and quick enjoyments.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby