Breakfast, then a city tour in Yerevan. During this time of the year, Yerevan is like a fairy-tale city. Immerse yourself into the magical atmosphere of the capital and start exploring from the Opera House. Continue the route through the oldest street in Yerevan- Abovyan street, which will lead you to the major attraction site – the Republic Square, with the giant Christmas tree and magical lights and decorations. Then follow your way to Cascade and visit Cafesjian Museum of Arts. Continue to the Victory Park and Mother Armenia Statue, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the biblical Mount Ararat. Dinner and overnight stay in Yerevan.
Days 2 - 3: Excursion to Tsaghkadzor
Breakfast. Visit to Tsaghkadzor- “Valley of flowers”, a beautiful ski resort located in the Province of Kotayk in Armenia. Visit to the Monastery of Kecharis in Tsaghkadzor- one of the most important religious complexes in Eastern Armenia, founded in 11th century. From the Monastery, transfer to the ropeway and passing the time in the ski resort area near the ropeway (optional). Dinner and overnight stay in Tsaghkadzor. 2nd day in Tsaghkadzor: Breakfast. Excursion in Tsaghkadzor. Dinner and overnight stay in Tsaghkadzor.
Day 4: Visit to Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery
Breakfast. Impressive tour to Garni Pagan Temple and Geghard Monastery. Garni is a 1st century Temple similar to the Greek Pantheon, located in a wonderful natural setting surrounded by the beautiful mountain slopes and deep canyon of the Azat river. Due to its mountainous setting, Garni is especially attractive in winter, when the surrounding mountain slopes are covered with snow. The structures of Garni combine elements of Hellenistic and national culture. Continue to the 13th century Monastery of Geghard, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Monastery of Geghard is a unique architectural construction, being partially carved out of the adjacent mountain, surrounded by cliffs. Return to Yerevan, dinner and overnight stay in Yerevan.
Day 5: Zvartnots (If open)- Echmiadzin
Breakfast. Visit the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral- the masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture was destroyed by an earthquake in 939. Visit to Echmiadzin, were you will find one of the first Christian churches in the world, founded by Gregory the Illuminator in 303. The cathedral is the centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of Armenian Catholics. Visit the churches of St. Gayane (the 630) and St. Hripsime (618), Christian virgins killed for their faith. Lunch in Echmiadzin. Benediction on New Year’s Eve in Echmiadzin. Return to Yerevan. Dinner and New Year celebration in Yerevan. Overnight stay in a Hotel in Yerevan
Day 6: Oshakan- Mughni- Yerevan
Breakfast. Free time until 12.00. Visit to Oshakan, a village where the inventor of Armenian alphabet – Mesrop Mashtoc was buried. Lunch in Oshakan. Afterwards, we continue to Mughni with a visit to the 14th century Saint Gevorg Monastery, which was formerly a popular pilgrimage site and the seat of an archbishop. Return to Yerevan, dinner and overnight stay in Yerevan.
Day 7: Free time and excursion in Yerevan
During your free time after breakfast, you may walk down the streets of Yerevan and enjoy the beauty of the decorated ancient city. Visit the Food Market and Vernissage- the arts & crafts market. After the free time, there will be an excursion to Yerevan Brandy Factory (if open), where you will have the chance to taste Armenian Cognac. In the evening, there is a possibility to attend one of the numerous events offered in various concert halls and theatres of Yerevan city (one of the options may be the Cafesjian Centre of Arts, offering exceptional musical events. To be confirmed later). Overnight stay in Yerevan.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to Zvartnots Airport for departure. Wishing you a safe trip!
