Gyumri, Black Fortress, Urban Life Museum, Vardzia (cave town), Borjomi (overnight), Tbilisi, Yerevan
5% discount till May 1
Gyumri, Black Fortress, Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum, Vardzia (carved monastery and cave town)
1. Gyumri
Attraction page
Gyumri is located in the north-western part of Armenia, in the middle of Shirak valley, 126 km far from Yerevan. From the ethnical point of view, it is the most colorful city in Armenia. The local traditions are deeply rooted here, national spirit is reflected in everything. Walking along the streets of old Gyumri one still seems to hear the voice of the smiths' hammers, it seems that a cart will appear from the street corner and the carter will call to show around the city. The old houses, a part of which, fortunately, resisted the devastating earthquake in 1988, speak of the high architectural achievements of the city. These buildings are notable with their architectural solutions, combination of colorful stone and masterfully elaborated bas-reliefs. Gyumri has always been in the center of cultural events.
2. Black Fortress
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.
3. Gyumri Urban Life (Dzitoghtsyan) Museum
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.
4. Vardzia (carved monastery and cave town)
Attraction page
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
Attraction page
Borjomi is a resort town in South-Central Georgia famous for its mineral water production. During archaeological excavations it was revealed that there, across the area, had existed stone baths, thus proving that people have used to utilize those mineral waters for centuries. Borjomi mineral springs, having restorative and healing powers, are one of the most frequently visited places of Georgia. The best way to experience the striking nature of the town is visiting mineral water park of Borjomi, which dates back to the 1850-s. Taking the cable car, that leaves from the park and heads up to the hill, will serve as a great opportunity to admire the charming views of this resort town.
2. Tbilisi
Attraction page
The capital of Georgia – Tbilisi, is located at the distance of 290 km north from Yerevan. The abundant vein of the layout of this city is Kura river, which, together with its flow, perfectly merges with the rhythm of the city. Tbilisi is always filled with vivid colors and happy mood. The city is rich with numerous historical-cultural monuments.
The tour starts with narrow streets, preserved from the early medieval region of Narikala, and ends with spacious Rustaveli Avenue. The modern shape of Tbilisi is a bright mixture of majestic cathedrals and ancient ruined castles, old neighborhoods and picturesque courtyards with openwork balconies, soviet buildings and ultramodern business centers, the contrast of which can be better seen from bird's-eye view by taking a cable car.
The tour starts with narrow streets, preserved from the early medieval region of Narikala, and ends with spacious Rustaveli Avenue. The modern shape of Tbilisi is a bright mixture of majestic cathedrals and ancient ruined castles, old neighborhoods and picturesque courtyards with openwork balconies, soviet buildings and ultramodern business centers, the contrast of which can be better seen from bird's-eye view by taking a cable car.
3. Yerevan
Attraction page
Yerevan is the capital city of Armenia, a city, which is 29 years older than Rome! It dates back to 782 BC, when the fortress of Erebuni was built by king Argishti The First. Yerevan is often referred to as "The Pink City" for many buildings are made of pink tuff stone. The capital city is a major tourist destination thanks to its numerous landmarks, extensive nightlife, great museums and lovely parks.
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
- Driver/Guide accommodation & meals
Exclusions
- Hotel accommodation
- Significant deviations from the route
- Alcoholic beverages if lunch option selected
- Audio guides
- WiFi 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
