REISEBazaar - Visit Armenia, It's Beautiful

Dagsprogram

Departure from Oslo to Athens

Fly direct to Athens on Aegean Airlines. Upon arrival at Athens transfer to the Athens 1890 Hotel & Spa.

Pick-up time: 1. Apr 2026, 16:50Eleftherios Venizelos IntlFlight #: A3767

• Our driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall with a sign with the lead passenger name. Gate A - next to the "Vodafone Shop". Gate B - next to "Everest".
  EMERGENCY CONTACT: Whatsapp (text only) +34 911 880 435
• Transfer provider: MYTRANSFERS (2280333)
• Vehicle models: VW Passat, Skoda Octavia or similar
• Maximum 4 passengers
• Maximum 3 medium suitcases
• Maximum waiting time: 60 minutes
• Journey time: 38 minutes
• Telephone Assistance:
  Operations center: +34 911 880 435 / +18449561190

Rest of the evning free

Dagsprogram

Travel from Athens to Yerevan, Armenia

Breakast

Join the tour "Highlights and Hidden Gems in Athens Walking Tour"

So you want to see the highlights of Athens, but not like everybody else? You should - Acropolis Hill is stunning! And now you can discover all the must-sees along a road that only locals know, through hidden alleys and ancient roads in the most awesome walking tour Walk along the city in the steps of philosophers, conquerors, rebels and ordinary people, through the modern and ancient city routes.  Wandering through streets that enclose a rich history you will able to reconstruct the past into the present due to your interactive tour. Be prepared to wide your knowledge and let your thought travel through the stories that lies beyond the present of this historic city.The Hidden Athens experience will allow you to walk along the city through the eyes of Urban Athens Collective, a group of locals, who love their city.

Transfer to the airport
Pick-up time: Pending to be confirmedEleftherios Venizelos IntlFlight #: A3898

• FINDING YOUR DRIVER Please be waiting at the hotel reception 10/15 minutes before your pick up time

Dagsprogram

Arrival Yerevan

Breakfast

Yerevan City Tour
We will begin our tour with the capital of Armenia: Yerevan. For centuries, this city has been known as the “pink city” due to the color of the volcanic tuff stone used in its construction. Yerevan is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, founded in 782 BC, and its streets are filled with history, culture, and vibrant energy.

During our tour, we will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: 

• Republic Square – The heart of Yerevan, surrounded by government buildings and the History Museum. At night, the square comes alive with its famous dancing fountains.
• Mashtots Avenue – Named after Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, this central avenue is lined with shops, cafes, and cultural institutions.
• Aram Khachaturian Opera and Ballet Theatre – This grand structure, named after the famous Armenian composer, is a cultural hub for opera, ballet, and concerts in Yerevan.
• Cascade Complex – A massive staircase that connects the downtown area with the Monument neighborhood, offering stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. The Cascade is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, featuring modern sculptures and art exhibitions.
• Mother Armenia – A towering statue that symbolizes peace and strength, offering a panoramic view of Yerevan. Located in Victory Park, the statue serves as a reminder of Armenia's resilience.
• Visit fruit market "Gum"  - One of the most vivid places in Yerevan is Gum Market near the Tashir trading center, which opened during former the Soviet Union years. It operates every day from morning until late evening. Here you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, spices, many types of dried fruits, cheeses, traditional Armenian bread (lavash), pickles, and more.
• Manuscript Museum of Armenia - which is called Matenadaran; here all ancient Armenian and World Manuscripts are kept.

Throughout the tour, we will also have the chance to explore local markets, parks, and enjoy the city's lively cafe culture.
Yerevan blends the old and the new, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Armenia’s rich past and vibrant present.
Matenadaran museum

Overnight in Yerevan

Dagsprogram

Yerevan - Ejmiatsin - Zvartnots - Yerevan

Breakfast

Ejmiatsin Cathedral & Zvartnots Cathedral
We will start our excursion to the centuries-old monuments of Ejmiatsin and Zvartnots, both of which are listed as
UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Cathedral of Ejmiatsin: Founded in 303 AD, the Cathedral of Ejmiatsin is the official residence of the Catholicos of Armenia and holds great significance as the spiritual heart of the Armenian Apostolic Church. This ancient cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Armenian identity and faith. Its rich history and architectural beauty attract pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
• Zvartnots Temple: After our visit to Ejmiatsin, we will continue our trip to Zvartnots Temple, constructed in the 7th century by Nerses the Builder. Although only ruins remain today, the site is steeped in history and still holds an air of mystery and grandeur. Once a magnificent architectural marvel, Zvartnots was known for its unique design, featuring a circular structure with an impressive dome. As we explore the ruins, we will delve into the temple's historical significance and the reasons for its eventual abandonment.

Both sites provide a deep insight into the rich religious heritage of Armenia and reflect the architectural brilliance of their time. As we visit these sacred places, we will appreciate their lasting impact on Armenian culture and spirituality.

Lunch at Tasty House
Drive to Parakar village and at a local house we will have lunch and will enjoy the cooking master class of Armenian dessert “Sudzukh” and homemade pasta “Arishta”. The show will be run by a famous Armenian TV star. The active participants will get gifts by the host and will be treated by homemade liquor.

Return to Yerevan

Memorial of the victims of the Genocide
Then we should visit Genocide Memorial known as Tsitsernakaberd.

Vernissage
Visit Vernissage; a vibrant open-air market and cultural phenomenon located in the heart of Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. Vernissage gathers local artists, craftsmen, and vendors who display and sell a diverse array of handmade crafts, traditional Armenian art, souvenirs, jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and other unique items. 

Overnight in Yerevan

Dagsprogram

Yerevan - Khor Virap - Noravank - Areni - Karahunj - Goris

Breakfast

Check out from Imperial Palace Hotel'

Khor Virap
Take trip to Khor Virap Monastery (4-18th cc.). This monastery is very prominent because of its history; Gregory the Illuminator, who introduced Christianity to Armenia, has been imprisoned there about 13 years as at that time there was a prison in the place of the monastery. Here we can enjoy the spectacular view of the sacred Ararat Mountain - an immortal symbol of Armenia.

Areni Cave
Continue the tour to Areni Village and Areni Cave. The cave consists of 3 rooms, most of which are not yet explored. During the studies of the cave, metal knives, fruit seeds, grain residues, rope, pottery, clothing, grapes and dried plums attributed to the years 4200-3500 BC were found. The oldest leather shoe in the world (which is more than 5500 years old) was found here. Here has been found the cellar which is considered to be the oldest cellar in the world (dating back over 6000 years ago).

Areni
On our way back we will visit village Areni which is considered to be an important center of wine production industry. You are welcome to taste local wines.

Noravank
We will continue our tour to Noravank - a monastery of XII century situated among amazing sheer rocks on the bench of a twisty gorge. This is the only monastery where we may find a unique sculpture of Father God. 

Karahunj observatory
We will explore the ancient observatory of Karahunj, often compared to Stonehenge in England. The standing stones, arranged like soldiers on a hill, number 204 and are located near the town of Sisian. These ancient stones have long been associated with mystical, fertility, and cosmic powers. However, it is their astronomical significance that has caused a particular sensation in scientific circles. Karahunj is believed to have been used for stargazing and astronomical observations, making it one of the oldest known observatories in the world.

Drive to Goris

Overnight in Goris.
Check in at Red Roof Guesthouse

Dagsprogram

Yerevan - Khndzoresk - Tatev - Selim - Sevan - Dilijan

Breakfast

Check out at Red Roof Guesthouse

Khndzoresk
Khndzoresk is one of the most impressive and mysterious places in Armenia because by visiting this village, you can clearly see how our ancestors lived and what progress led us to today’s level. Even before 1950, the people of this area lived in caves for 1000 years, and now you can walk through the abandoned city and feel the spirit of those times when there was no Internet, no phones, no connection. Because of its inaccessible location, the city remained inaccessible for both enemies and developing urban infrastructure.

Tatev Monastery at 10:15-11:30
Drive to Tatev Monastery, it is not only a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture but also a famous center of learning from the 9th to 13th centuries. This complex once housed one of the most important universities in Armenia, where scholars taught subjects like theology, philosophy, and science. The breathtaking location of the monastery, perched on the edge of a deep gorge, adds to its spiritual and historical allure. 

To reach Tatev, you’ll experience an unforgettable ride on the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest non-stop double-track cable car. This Guinness World Record-holding cable car spans 5.7 kilometers, offering stunning aerial views of the lush Vorotan Gorge. The ride is an adventure in itself, with panoramic vistas of the natural surroundings that leave a lasting impression.

Upon arrival at the monastery, explore its historical halls, chapels, and courtyards. The serene atmosphere, along with the dramatic views of the surrounding valleys, makes Tatev a highlight of any trip to southern Armenia. 

Selim Caravanserai
Today, we will traverse the ancient pathways once used by travelers on the Great Silk Road. Our journey will take us through the Selim Caravanserai, a key stop for merchants and traders during the height of the Silk Road. This caravanserai served as an important center for exchange, trade, and overnight lodging. Here, we can witness the timeless traces of world history, with the enduring stones of Selim standing as silent witnesses to centuries of commerce and cultural exchange.

Mikaelyan's cheese farm 17:00
Our next stop is Mikaelyan Family Farm, where the unique Armenian cheese has been producing for several years by Mikaelyan's family. This family-run company is specialized in the production of wine-cheese, cognac-cheese, “horac” and parmesan-type cheeses.

Sevan
We will drive to Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, often referred to as the "Pearl of Armenia." The lake stands out with its sweet and astonishingly blue water, reflecting the surrounding mountain landscapes. Situated at an altitude of about 1,900 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level, it is a vital ecological and cultural landmark for Armenia. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Next, we will visit Sevanavank Monastery, a historic complex located on the Sevan Peninsula. Originally, the peninsula was an island, but due to a decrease in the water level of the lake, it has transformed into a peninsula.

Dilijan
Then we will drive to Dilijan. Walking along the Sharamberyan Street we will come across with many museums, souvenirs’ markets, small shops and so on. We will also observe two traditional houses built of wood, with tiled roofs and balconies with meticulously carved being typical examples of Dilijan.

Overnight in Dilijan.
Check in at Best Western Paradise Hotel Dilijan

Dagsprogram

Dilijan - Garni - Geghard - Symphony of Stones - Yerevan

Breakfast

Check out from Best Western Paradise Hotel Dilijan

Garni Temple
Take a trip to Garni, home to the only standing Pagan temple in Armenia, built in the 1st century AD. This unique structure was dedicated to Mihr, the god of light and purity, showcasing Armenia’s ancient pre-Christian beliefs. While the temple
was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1679, it was meticulously restored in 1975, bringing back its classical Greco-Roman architectural style. Set atop a rocky hill with stunning views of the Azat River gorge, the Temple of Garni provides a
fascinating insight into Armenia's pagan history and its preservation efforts.

Symphony of Stones
Drive to the Symphony of Stones, located near the village of Garni, not far from the ancient Garni Temple. It is a stunning basalt rock formation that has been shaped by nature over centuries. The rocks in the gorge have taken on various
columnar shapes, resembling a natural orchestra of standing stones, which has led to the name "Symphony of Stones". 

Lunch and "Lavash" Baking master class at a local house

Afterwards we will visit a local house where you will have the chance to see and participate in the preparation of Armenian national bread: lavash. It is usually cooked in a ground oven: “tonir''. In 2015 it has been inscribed in UNESCO intangible
heritage list.

Geghard Monastery
We’ll continue to the Monastery of Geghard, named after the legendary lance that pierced Christ’s body and was kept here for centuries. Although the exact founding date of the monastery remains unknown, the current complex dates back to the
mid-13th century. Built partially into the cliffs of a spectacular gorge, Geghard Monastery is a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing both faith and artistry.

Return to Yerevan

Check in at Imperial Palace Hotel

Dagsprogram

Departure from Yerevan

Early check out from Imperial Palace Hotel

Transfer to the airport & Say goodbye to Armenia!

Depart from Zvartnots International Airport at 4:25 AM on Aegean Airlines back to Oslo via Athens.

Arrive Oslo