Home
Tours
Group Tours
Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank

Group tour: Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank

Full-day

Duration: 10-11 hours

Start time: 09:00

Tour language: English, Russian

Start & end point: 96, Nalbandyan str.

267 reviews

98% recommended

On this tour you will visit Gyumri, the second largest city in Armenia, one of the main cultural centers of the republic. The only Catholic church in Armenia has recently been built in Gyumri. Visiting the Urban Life museum you will discover everyday life, culture and history of Gyumri. There will be a stop at Black Fortress, which is one of the famous monuments of Gyumri. Built in 1834, it is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of the city. Walking through the streets of the town you will see lots of old buildings and feel the spirit of 19th century architecture. The monastery complex of Harichavank, the last stop, is situated on the western slope of Mount Aragats, on a rocky cape.

Deposit

To secure the booking, full payment is required.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation at least 24 hours before the start time, the paid amount is refunded. In case of later cancellation or no-show, no amount is refunded.

Share this page:

Date

Select

Number of people

Adult (age 8+)
Child (age 3-8) 50% discount
Infant (age 0-3) free of charge

Preferred language:

Price per person

0 USD

34.84 USD

Total price

34.84 USD

group_tours.inner.number_of_seats.warning

See available dates on calendar

Added to cart –

Same tour privately

Gyumri, Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Black Fortress, Lunch stop, Harichavank Monastery

1. Gyumri

90-110 min

Attraction page

In the heart of the Shirak Valley, where cold winds carry the fragrance of the steppe, lies Gyumri – a city where the past and present breathe in unison. Its old streets are like the pages of an ancient book, each door, stone, and balcony preserving stories passed down through generations.

Wander here, and you might almost hear the ring of a blacksmith's hammer or catch sight of a horse-drawn carriage turning a corner, the driver playfully inviting you to ride through this city of craftsmen and poets.

Gyumri's houses, built from colorful tuff and adorned with carved balconies, have endured earthquakes and storms yet retain their proud appearance and the warmth of the hands that shaped them. Among the scent of freshly baked bread and the melodies of street violins, there lingers a special spirit – a blend of traditional crafts, heartfelt hospitality, and the gentle humor that defines its people.

Long a cultural heartbeat of Armenia, Gyumri is where Armen Tigranyan's opera "Anoush" first graced the stage, forever engraving the city's name in the annals of art. Visitors often leave with the feeling they've found a second home here. Perhaps the secret lies in this: Gyumri is not just a place on the map, but a living storyteller, whispering its legends to all willing to listen.

2. Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum

50-60 min

Attraction page

It is the museum of urban life and national culture of Gyumri, where the everyday life, culture and history of Gyumri are presented. This remarkable mansion was built by wealthy merchant Petros Dzitoghtsyan in 1872 from the famous red tuff of Shirak. The museum was founded in 1984 in this very building. It is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of Gyumri.

3. Black Fortress

20-30 min

Attraction page

Built in 1834, the Black Fortress is one of the famous monuments of Gyumri. The fortress is a complex of military and architectural buildings. In the central part there stands the Alexandropol Fortress with 3 gates, in the center – the layout of St. Alexandra church together with the southern and northern fortresses, serving as the General Protection Complex of Alexandropol. Underground roads were built for the Black Fortress and there were roads leading from the fortress to the present Mother Armenia Monument and the Red Fortress. Black Fortress is included in the list of intangible monuments of history and culture of Gyumri.

Lunch stop

50-60 min

Optional lunch in the local traditional restaurant on own expense. One may choose between 3 different options:
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person

4. Harichavank Monastery

20-30 min

Attraction page

The monastery complex of Harichavank is situated on the western slope of Mount Aragats, on a rocky cape. According to the architects' studies, the complex was founded in the 7th century. In the 13th century the main church was built. In the 19th century the complex became the summer residence of Catholicoses. Not far from the main buildings there is a small chapel which is of great interest. It is built on a piece of rock, which, as a result of an earthquake, split from the cape and the chapel is now towering over the canyon.

Inclusions

Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
Air-conditioned vehicles
Bottled water & pastries
Admission tickets
Wi-Fi in the vehicles
Vehicle & passengers insurance

Exclusions

Lunch cost (10.53 USD – 13.23 USD)
Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)

Highlights

Explore "the city of crafts and arts"
Immerse yourself in the depths of local traditions
Take a walk in the old streets of Gyumri, where the famous Armenian films were shot

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there much distance to be carried on foot in Gyumri?

Yes, prepare for a walk of 1-2 hours to fully experience the beauty and history of the city.

Can I pay for the lunch in the restaurant by card?

It's advisable to bring cash in Armenian Drams, since paying for lunch with a card is not always possible.

What is the group size for this tour?

The group size varies, but typically ranges up to 48 participants.

Are there any clothing requirements or recommendations for this tour?

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather of the tour date conditions: bringing a coat or jacket is always a good idea, as regional temperatures tend to be lower than in Yerevan. Women should dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries, avoiding revealing clothing as a sign of respect.

Meet our Guides

Hayk Harutyunyan

RU HY EN AR

Dear friends! We work for 11 months in order to have 22 days vacation, and you've decided to choose Armenia to turn your vacation into a holiday! Our team has prepared everything to provide the best service, and with me, you'll unzip Armenia's picturesque beauty, architectural and natural monuments, as well learn a lot about the history and geography, economics and social issues, culture, and nature of our Homeland.

Tigran Balyan

RU HY EN

Hello, I am Tigran a guide in my wonderful and lovely Armenia ❤️ I am guiding in my country and with this passion I can share kindness, joy and smiles to my tourists. My experience is already 7 plus years and I enjoy architecture, wine and mountains in amazing Armenia.

Samvel Mkrtumyan

RU HY EN

Hi, I'm Samvel. With degrees in international relations and history, and years of connecting people from all walks of life, I've turned my passion for stories into guiding. I love revealing Armenia's hidden gems, sharing its quirky legends, and showcasing its breathtaking sights. It's fun, pal. Let's enjoy it together!

Manya Gevorgyan

RU HY EN

I have been a tour guide since 2015. To this day, every excursion is a great source of positive energy for me. During the tours, you will not only get acquainted with the sights, the country's history, and its architectural features, but also feel the full charm of the Armenian emotional mindset and lifestyle.

You might also like...

Share this page:

map

Group tour: Gyumri (Urban life museum, Black Fortress, walking through the old streets), Harichavank