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Gyumri, Black Fortress, Dzitoghtsyan Museum, Marmashen

Private tour: Gyumri, Black Fortress, Dzitoghtsyan Museum, Marmashen

Full-day

Historical & Heritage

Full-day

Duration: 9-10 hours

Mileage: 275 km

This private tour is dedicated to Gyumri – the second largest city in Armenia and one of the country's most distinctive cultural centers, known for its warm character, creative spirit and remarkable 19th-century architecture. In recent years, the only Catholic church in Armenia has also been built here, adding another special touch to the city's rich cultural and spiritual image. Walking through the streets, you will pass by many old buildings and feel the unique spirit of 19th-century urban architecture.

At the Gyumri Urban Life Museum (Dzitoghtsyan), you will get acquainted with the everyday life, traditions and history of the city, discovering details that beautifully reveal the atmosphere of old Gyumri. The route also includes a stop near the Black Fortress, one of the most famous monuments of the city. Built in 1834, it remains an important symbol of Gyumri's historical heritage. The final stop of the tour is Marmashen Monastery, whose elegant architecture, harmony and majestic appearance leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Deposit

To secure the booking, you can pay just 15% of the tour price.

Cancellation

In case of cancellation or no-show, 15% of the tour price is not refunded.

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Number of people

Please, include also children and infants

This tour can be realized for maximum 50 people in one group, if guide service is required.

Guide

Vehicle – Photos

Start date & time

Select

Admissions to attractions:

(Total: 11.18 USD)

Include

Pay myself on spot

(18.16 USD per person)

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Total price

pers.
Start date:
Admissions included
Lunch included

0 USD

136 USD

122.22 USD

(until 25th December)

pers.

To secure the booking you can pay just 15% deposit:

20.37 USD

Added to cart

Itinerary

Gyumri, Black Fortress, Gyumri Urban Life Museum (Dzitoghtsyan), Marmashen Monastery

1. Gyumri

90-110 min Details: Gyumri

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.

2. Black Fortress

20-30 min Details: Black Fortress

Rising above the city of Gyumri like a silent stone sentinel, the Black Fortress stands as a solemn and powerful reminder of the 19th century's military might. Built in 1834, it became an essential part of the city's defensive network when Gyumri was known as Alexandropol. The complex consists of the central Alexandropol Fortress with its three massive gates, a model of the Church of Saint Alexandra at its heart and the northern and southern fortresses, all united as a single shield of protection.

3. Gyumri Urban Life Museum (Dzitoghtsyan)

50-60 min Details: Gyumri Urban Life Museum (Dzitoghtsyan)

In the old quarters of Gyumri, among narrow streets and stone houses, stands a mansion of fiery red tuff – like a sunset frozen in stone. Built in 1872 by wealthy merchant Petros Dzitoghtsyan, it once embodied the city's pride, hosting lively receptions, family celebrations and quiet evenings in the glow of oil lamps. Its walls have witnessed the passing of eras, yet still hold the warmth and brilliance of the time when Gyumri thrived as a hub of merchant wealth and cultural splendor.

4. Marmashen Monastery

30-40 min Details: Marmashen Monastery

On the high bank of the Akhuryan River, where the plain stretches wide and silent, rises Marmashen – one of Armenia's most impressive monastic complexes. It was founded by Prince Vahram Pahlavuni, who envisioned a sanctuary that would unite the grandeur of faith with the elegance of stone art. Construction began in 986 and lasted more than four decades, until in 1029 the monastery appeared in its completed harmony.

Inclusions

Professional drivers
Air-conditioned vehicles
Bottled water
Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
Vehicle & passengers insurance
Extra stops on the route upon request

Exclusions

Significant deviations from the route
Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
Audio guides
Wi-Fi in the vehicles

What to expect

Feel Gyumri's warm soul through its old stone streets, humor and creative spirit
See the Black Fortress, one of the city's most recognizable historical landmarks
Step into local urban life at the Dzitoghtsyan Museum
End with Marmashen, a graceful monastery known for its harmony and quiet grandeur

Meet our Guides

Poghos Varzhapetyan

RU HY

My name is Poghos Varzhapetyan. I've been working in tourism since 2016. I love traveling. As a tour guide, my goal is always to make guests fall in love with Armenia so much that at the end of the tour they don't say goodbye, but instead say, "See you again, Armenia!".

Roza Hovhannisyan

RU EN

Hi! My name is Roza, and I've been working as a tour guide since 2019. Why did I choose this profession? It's very simple: I love Armenia, I love people, and I love introducing people to Armenia. But not just introducing them – I do my best to make them fall in love with my country, too.

Ani Mshecyan

Good afternoon, dear friends! I'm a Russian-speaking tour guide since 2023, offering tours around Armenia. My main priority is the interests and preferences of our guests. Each tour is customized individually and takes place in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. The excursions are as engaging, creative, and informative as possible. I'll be happy to meet you and share my knowledge about our beautiful country.

Alisa Grigoryan

HY EN

Welcome! I'm Alisa, an experienced guide with a deep passion for the cultures of Armenia and Georgia. I look forward to sharing the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality of our region with you.

Reviews

Tatiana

Russia

08.02.2024

Очень понравилась экскурсия в г.Гюмри и монастырь Мармашен. Посетили Черную крепость, прогулялись по центру города, сходили в очень интересный музей Народной архитектуры и городского быта, заехали посмотреть величественный Мармашен. Огромное спасибо компании за прекрасную организацию тура и отдельное спасибо гиду Давиду за интересные рассказы об истории Армении, обычаях и традициях!

Marie Marsoubian

Armenia

16.05.2023

Большое спасибо,
Ерванду (гид) и Спартаку (шофёр) за интересную и безопасную экскурсию.
Проведенный нами день был прекрасным и запоминающим.

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Private tour: Gyumri, Black Fortress, Dzitoghtsyan Museum, Marmashen

Itinerary