Private tour: The best of Armenia and Georgia in 2 days
Gyumri, Black Fortress, Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Vardzia (carved monastery and cave town)
1. Gyumri
90-110 min
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.
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. Black Fortress
20-30 min
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.
Local legends whisper of underground tunnels stretching from the Black Fortress to the Red Fortress and the "Mother Armenia" monument – a hidden network of stone arteries beneath the city. Its dark volcanic tuff gives the fortress a grim, impenetrable presence, especially striking when silhouetted against the crimson hues of sunset.
Within its heavy arches and sturdy bastions, the echoes of history linger – the clang of weapons, the steady steps of sentries. Today, the Black Fortress is recognized as an intangible monument of Gyumri's history and culture, remaining a proud emblem of resilience and military honor. Those who climb its walls can almost feel time itself weaving past and present into a single, unbroken story.
Local legends whisper of underground tunnels stretching from the Black Fortress to the Red Fortress and the "Mother Armenia" monument – a hidden network of stone arteries beneath the city. Its dark volcanic tuff gives the fortress a grim, impenetrable presence, especially striking when silhouetted against the crimson hues of sunset.
Within its heavy arches and sturdy bastions, the echoes of history linger – the clang of weapons, the steady steps of sentries. Today, the Black Fortress is recognized as an intangible monument of Gyumri's history and culture, remaining a proud emblem of resilience and military honor. Those who climb its walls can almost feel time itself weaving past and present into a single, unbroken story.
3. Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum
50-60 min
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.
In 1984, the house opened its doors in a new role – as the Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life – where every room became a living page in the city's chronicle. Here, old photographs awaken the past, the imagined footsteps of former owners echo in the halls and the scent of wood and aged fabrics carries visitors back to the 19th century. On the shelves stand dishes that once adorned festive tables, in the display cases – garments once worn by ladies strolling the main streets in lace-trimmed hats. Close your eyes and you can almost hear a violin playing in the parlor and smell fresh pastries from the garden.
Today, recognized as an intangible monument of Gyumri's history and culture, the museum preserves far more than objects – it keeps the city's very soul alive in every stone, every artifact and every story whispered within its walls.
In 1984, the house opened its doors in a new role – as the Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life – where every room became a living page in the city's chronicle. Here, old photographs awaken the past, the imagined footsteps of former owners echo in the halls and the scent of wood and aged fabrics carries visitors back to the 19th century. On the shelves stand dishes that once adorned festive tables, in the display cases – garments once worn by ladies strolling the main streets in lace-trimmed hats. Close your eyes and you can almost hear a violin playing in the parlor and smell fresh pastries from the garden.
Today, recognized as an intangible monument of Gyumri's history and culture, the museum preserves far more than objects – it keeps the city's very soul alive in every stone, every artifact and every story whispered within its walls.
4. Vardzia (carved monastery and cave town)
65-75 min
Founded in the 12th century, Vardzia cave town is one of the most important and impressive historic monuments of Georgia, located at an altitude of 1300 m above sea level, at the height of 100 m from the foothills of the Erusheti Mountain. The complex used to have as many as 13 floors connected to one another by a complex system of tunnels. There were living quarters, refectories, barns, wine storing facilities (marani) as well as libraries in Vardzia complex. The town had potable water supply and a sewerage system. Vardzia carved monastery is part of the Vardzia Historical Architectural Museum Reserve. It is an incredible site to explore for those interested in history and culture.
Overnight stay
Borjomi, Tbilisi, Yerevan
1. Borjomi
40-50 min
Borjomi, the famous resort town in south-central Georgia, has long been synonymous with healing mineral waters. Its history stretches back for centuries: archaeological excavations have revealed ancient stone baths, proving that people have relied on these natural springs since antiquity.
Even today, Borjomi's mineral waters, renowned for their unique therapeutic qualities, remain one of the country's greatest attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The best way to experience the town's spirit is to wander through the Borjomi Mineral Water Park, founded in the 1850s and still preserving the charm of a 19th-century spa. Strolling among its greenery, one can taste the water directly from the springs while enjoying peace and fresh mountain air.
For a breathtaking view from above, a cable car lifts visitors from the park to a hilltop overlooking the valley. From there, the panorama reveals Borjomi nestled among forests and mountains. Borjomi is more than just a resort – it is a harmony of nature, history and wellbeing, where every traveler can find a source of strength and inspiration.
Even today, Borjomi's mineral waters, renowned for their unique therapeutic qualities, remain one of the country's greatest attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The best way to experience the town's spirit is to wander through the Borjomi Mineral Water Park, founded in the 1850s and still preserving the charm of a 19th-century spa. Strolling among its greenery, one can taste the water directly from the springs while enjoying peace and fresh mountain air.
For a breathtaking view from above, a cable car lifts visitors from the park to a hilltop overlooking the valley. From there, the panorama reveals Borjomi nestled among forests and mountains. Borjomi is more than just a resort – it is a harmony of nature, history and wellbeing, where every traveler can find a source of strength and inspiration.
2. Tbilisi
150-180 min
280 kilometers north of Yerevan stretches Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia – a city where the past and the present beat in the same vibrant rhythm. At its heart runs the Kura River, an artery that unites centuries, mirroring in its waters church domes, bridges and the sparkling lights of the metropolis. In its narrow alleys whispers of history can still be heard, while the wide avenues breathe with the pulse of a modern city.
Tbilisi keeps treasures of time: old quarters, majestic cathedrals and half-ruined fortresses, where centuries seem to pause, standing beside shining business centers and bold contemporary architecture. The Narikala district, with its winding medieval streets leading to the ancient fortress overlooking the city, adds a special charm. Meanwhile, Rustaveli Avenue astonishes with its grandeur – a cultural stage lined with theaters, museums and palaces, embodying Georgia's artistic spirit.
The city is a living contrast: ornate balconies and courtyards of the past neighbor with Soviet-era monuments and glass-and-steel towers of today. From the cable car, Tbilisi unfolds like an open palm – a breathtaking panorama where history and modernity merge into one harmonious pattern.
Tbilisi is more than a capital; it is the soul of Georgia, a city where everyone discovers a reflection of their own story and carries away its living breath.
Tbilisi keeps treasures of time: old quarters, majestic cathedrals and half-ruined fortresses, where centuries seem to pause, standing beside shining business centers and bold contemporary architecture. The Narikala district, with its winding medieval streets leading to the ancient fortress overlooking the city, adds a special charm. Meanwhile, Rustaveli Avenue astonishes with its grandeur – a cultural stage lined with theaters, museums and palaces, embodying Georgia's artistic spirit.
The city is a living contrast: ornate balconies and courtyards of the past neighbor with Soviet-era monuments and glass-and-steel towers of today. From the cable car, Tbilisi unfolds like an open palm – a breathtaking panorama where history and modernity merge into one harmonious pattern.
Tbilisi is more than a capital; it is the soul of Georgia, a city where everyone discovers a reflection of their own story and carries away its living breath.
Inclusions
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Professional drivers
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Air-conditioned vehicles
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Bottled water
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Free pick-up & drop-off within Yerevan
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Vehicle & passengers insurance
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Extra stops on the route upon request
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Driver/Guide accommodation & meals
Exclusions
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Hotel accommodation
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Significant deviations from the route
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Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
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Audio guides
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Wi-Fi in the vehicles
What to expect
- Visit the capitals of two Transcaucasian countries within one trip
- Explore "the city of crafts and arts"
- Immerse yourself in the depths of Armenian local traditions
- Feel the incomparable Georgian flavor
- Observe the architectural details of the 12th century
- Discover the healing power of mineral springs
- See the most popular sites of the capital of Georgia
- Stroll along the cozy streets of the old town
*Uphill walking and great deal of uneven stairs to take in Vardzia
*Residents of some countries (please, check the details at the office) may need to apply for the visa in advance to enter Georgia or/and to obtain one more entry visa to come back to Armenia
*Entry visa to Georgia or/and entry visa to come back to Armenia is NOT included
*Kindly have your Valid Passport with you for crossing the border & hotel check-in
Booking conditions
Cancellation & modification
Meet our Guides
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
RU
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.
Mariam Dabaghyan
RU
FR
HY
Hello! I'm Mariam, and I've been working as a tour guide since 2019. If you enjoy tours that are rich in content yet easy-going and never boring, then we're on the same path!
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