Group tour: Saghmosavank, Hovhannavank, Holiday sweet master class, Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, Zvartnots Temple
Signature Tour
Saghmosavank Monastery, Hovhannavank Monastery, Armenian Holiday sweet master class, Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral, Zvartnots Temple
1. Saghmosavank Monastery
30-40 min


















5 km far from Hovhanavank monastery, on the edge of Kasakh river canyon, in the 13th century Vachutian dukes built Saghmosavank monastery. The main church is adjacent to the scriptorium, where many manuscripts have been produced during centuries. Saghmosavank underwent the devastating influence of the earthquake in 1988. The reconstruction, completed in 2000, returned the church its beauty and glory.
2. Hovhannavank Monastery
30-40 min


















Hovhannavank monastery bears the name of John the Baptist. The oldest church here is the one-naved basilica, built in the 5th century. In the 13th century, under the patronage of Vachutian dukes, new buildings were added. The portal of the main church, which is embellished with evangelical motifs, is of great interest.
Armenian Holiday sweet master class & lunch
60-90 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
Option 1 (vegeterian) – 3900 AMD per person
Option 2 – 4500 AMD per person
Option 3 – 4900 AMD per person
3. Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral
50-60 min

























The center of Armenian Apostolic church – St. Echmiadzin is located 22 km far from Yerevan. The Cathedral of Echmiadzin was founded at the beginning of the fourth century and is one of the oldest churches in the world. According to the legend, the church was built in the place where apparition of Jesus Christ was seen to Gregory The Illuminator in the dream. The interior of the church is covered with frescoes, created by Hovnatanyan family. The residence of the Catholicos and the Theological Academy are situated near the Cathedral. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
4. Zvartnots Temple
30-40 min




























This marvelous temple is a result of skillfulness and brave creativity of Armenian architects of the 7th century. Having been built on several columns, it was able to survive only till the 10th century. When in the beginning of the 20th century this site was being excavated, many specialists could hardly accept its reconstruction model, designed by famous Armenian architect Toros Toramanyan, as it was difficult to believe, that such a huge and complicated construction could have been built those days, and amazingly at that time one of the bas-relieves of St. Chapelle church in Paris came to prove Toramanyan's version; the bas-relief depicts Zvartnots temple with Noah's Ark and it looks like the model, represented by the architect. The site is included in UNESCO Cultural World Heritage List.
Inclusions
- Professional guide: ENG + RUS consecutively
- Bottled water & pastries
- Admission tickets
- Wi-Fi in the vehicles
- Vehicle & passengers insurance
- Master class & tasting
Exclusions
- Lunch cost (10.37 USD – 13.02 USD)
- Hotel drop-off (final stop: our office)
Highlights
- Discover ancient monasteries set high above the scenic Kasakh Gorge, offering stunning views
- Reveal the culinary secrets of Armenian cuisine
- Explore the spiritual center of Armenia and one of the world's oldest Christian cathedrals
- Visit the historic remains of this 7th-century UNESCO World Heritage site
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from the Holiday sweet master class?
The Holiday sweet master class is a fun and flavorful gata-baking workshop. Guests will uncover the secrets of preparing this traditional Armenian pastry, filled with the rich khoriz mixture of flour, butter, and sugar. They'll try their hand at shaping it and, at the end, enjoy the warm taste of their freshly baked creation.
Will I have the chance to attend liturgy in the church of Echmiadzin?
Please, note that the liturgy is held only on Sundays. Therefore, if you book this tour for that day, you will have the opportunity to attend the service.
Can I visit "Treasures of Echmiadzin" museum during this tour?
You can, indeed, visit the "Treasures of Echmiadzin" museum during your time at the Mother Cathedral, but, please, note that the entry ticket is not included in the price of our tour and is to be purchased on the spot.
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?
We recommend wearing comfortable sports shoes and dressing in weather-appropriate clothing for the tour; taking a jacket or coat is always a wise choice. Weather conditions in the regions can be significantly cooler than in Yerevan. Modest clothing is requested of women during visits to churches and monasteries.
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification