Shopping with Brandy

Explore Armenia’s Renowned Brandy and Vibrant Markets in Yerevan

The Shopping with Brandy tour offers a fascinating journey through Yerevan’s historic brandy factories and lively markets, all for $75 per group of up to six people. This 4 to 5-hour private experience combines educational visits to Armenia’s legendary brandy producers with local shopping at markets that have remained popular since the Soviet era. The tour is ideal for those interested in Armenian craftsmanship, history, and local flavors, offering sample tastings and insights from expert guides.

Starting from your Yerevan accommodation, the tour includes hassle-free pickup, WiFi-equipped transport, and visits to notable factories and markets. While the tour does not include sightseeing tickets, it compensates with informative stops and shopping opportunities. Booking in advance—usually about a week ahead—ensures a smooth experience, especially for groups craving an authentic Armenian adventure.

Key Points

• Private tour for groups of up to six, priced at $75.
• Duration of 4 to 5 hours, combining factory visits and market shopping.
• Visit to two historic brandy factories, Noy and Ararat, with tastings included.
• Stops at the Central Market and Vernissage Market for local foods and crafts.
• Pick-up from Yerevan accommodations, with WiFi and bottled water on board.
• No sightseeing tickets included, but the experience offers rich educational content and shopping opportunities.

Convenient Pickup and Comfortable Transport in Yerevan

This tour departs from your Yerevan accommodation at 12:00 pm, with pick-up included, making it easy to start without any hassle. The transportation is private, air-conditioned, and equipped with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day. The small group size—up to six people—keeps the experience intimate and personalized, allowing the guide to provide detailed explanations at each stop.

The vehicle is well-stocked with bottled water, and the tour includes amenities like a thermos for coffee or tea and chargers for Apple and Samsung devices. Such thoughtful features help maintain comfort while exploring Armenia’s cultural highlights.

Visiting the Noy Yerevan Ararat Brandy-Wine-Vodka Factory

The first stop is the Noy Cognac Factory, situated in front of the Ararat Factory and close to the City Hall and Victory Bridge. Founded in 1877 by Nerses Tairian, this plant is inside the Erivan fortress, built in the 16th century. Visitors find this site particularly charming because of its historic architecture and its location within a famous fortress.

Inside, you’ll explore the cellars, catacombs, and tasting rooms. An excursion is offered here, revealing the production process and the history of brandy in Armenia. The shop outside provides an opportunity to buy brandy, wine, and vodka, making it a convenient stop for souvenir shopping. Note that admission tickets are not included, but sample tastings are available.

Discovering the Legendary Ararat Brandy Factory and Museum

Next, the tour visits the Ararat Brandy Factory, a symbol of Armenian craftsmanship and national pride. Established in 1887 by Nerses Tairyan, the factory gained international fame after winning a gold medal in France in 1900 during a “Blind Tasting” competition, where it was awarded the right to use the word “cognac”.

The museum housed within the factory showcases historical artifacts and exhibits that narrate the story of Armenian brandy, including its prestigious awards and legendary status. The tasting room allows visitors to sample some of the famous cognacs, including those once favored by Winston Churchill. The shop offers bottles for purchase, perfect for gift-giving or personal collection.

Shopping at Yerevan’s Central Market and Vernissage

Following the factory visits, the tour takes a short 30-minute stop at Yerevan’s Central Market, known locally as GUM. Operating since Soviet times, this market remains a hub for fresh fruits, dried fruits, Armenian bread (lavash), meats, and fish. It provides a vivid snapshot of local life with vendors selling first-hand produce.

The Vernissage Market nearby is a famous open-air market that has been active since 1980. Originally, it was a space for Armenian artists selling paintings, but now it specializes in handicrafts, souvenirs, and gifts. It offers a wide range of artisan crafts perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. Both markets are free to visit, giving ample time for browsing and shopping.

Practical Details and Additional Features

The tour includes complimentary coffee and tea, along with bottled water, to keep guests refreshed during the day. The private transportation ensures flexibility and comfort, with fuel surcharge already included in the price.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. It’s designed to accommodate various physical abilities, although specific accessibility details are not provided. Travelers should be aware that lunch and sightseeing tickets are not included, so they may wish to plan accordingly if they want a full day of activity.

Expert Guides and Personalized Experience

The guide on this tour, Grigori, is highly praised for being courteous, knowledgeable, and pleasant to talk to. The personalized nature of the tour means that questions about Armenian brandy or local markets are warmly welcomed. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for customized explanations and frequent interaction.

Why Choose This Tour in Yerevan

The Shopping with Brandy tour offers an excellent blend of cultural education and shopping at a reasonable $75. It’s especially appealing for those interested in Armenia’s iconic brandy brands—Noy and Ararat—and enjoying local markets. The comprehensive stops provide a well-rounded insight into Armenian craftsmanship, history, and culinary delights.

With excellent reviews praising the high-quality guides and personalized service, this tour provides a relaxed yet informative way to experience Yerevan’s traditional industries and local life. It is most suitable for small groups seeking comfort, education, and authentic souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes pickup, private transportation, WiFi, bottled water, coffee/tea, and shopping stops. Sightseeing tickets are not included.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book about 7 days in advance to secure availability.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is suitable for most participants, but specific accessibility details are not provided.

Is there a guide for the factory visits?
Yes, the guide explains the history and production at each factory, making the experience informative and engaging.

Are tastings included?
Yes, sampling at the brandy factories is part of the experience.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Absolutely, both factories and markets have shops where you can purchase brandy, crafts, and local products.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a desire to learn and shop are recommended. The tour provides bottled water and amenities for your comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, the tour’s focus on brandy factory visits may be less engaging for young children.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Shopping with Brandy tour in Yerevan promises a well-rounded taste of Armenia’s renowned brandy industry combined with a taste of local market life. Its private, personalized approach makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Armenia’s traditions comfortably and authentically.