Private tour: Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin Monastery, main sights of Tbilisi

Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin Monastery, main sights of Tbilisi

1. Haghpat Monastery

50-60 min
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To the northeast of Sanahin, cradled by the lofty peaks of Lori, stretches the monastery of Haghpat – a masterpiece of Armenian medieval art, where stone speaks the language of centuries. Founded in the 10th century under King Ashot III of the Bagratuni dynasty, it rose at a time when Armenia blossomed in culture and spirit. The weathered walls of Haghpat still carry the resonance of that golden age, bearing silent witness to the passage of time.

Within its sacred grounds stand the Church of the Holy Mother of God, erected in 1025, the Church of Surb Nshan, the library and many other edifices that together shape the monastery into a miniature city of faith. In the late 18th century, the great troubadour Sayat-Nova lived and created here, weaving verses and songs that captured the soul of the Caucasus. Even now, one feels his echo within these walls, as if the strings of his instrument still tremble in the air.

But Haghpat was never just a monastery. It was a haven of thought and learning: manuscripts were penned, books safeguarded and ideas exchanged that nourished both faith and intellect. Today, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Haghpat continues to remind the world of Armenia's golden spiritual era.

Standing at the foot of its ancient walls, one senses how time folds upon itself – the silence of the monastery filled with an eternal chant, where prayer and song weave into a single, timeless harmony.

2. Sanahin Monastery

40-50 min
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Not far from Haghpat, in the heart of the Lori region, rises Sanahin Monastery – a true marvel of Armenia's medieval architecture. Its construction began in the second half of the 10th century, during the reign of King Ashot III and from the very beginning the complex was conceived as both a spiritual and educational center.

The first structures built here were the Church of the Holy Mother of God and the Church of Amenaprkich (All-Savior), around which other chapels and utility buildings gradually appeared. Between the two churches, architects originally left a narrow passage, but soon realized the risk: in the event of an earthquake, both might collapse. The solution turned out to be not only practical but ingeniously creative – the passage was filled with a new building, the Academy, which not only strengthened the seismic stability of the complex but also transformed Sanahin into a flourishing hub of science and enlightenment.

Here, prominent scholars worked, manuscripts were copied and created and traditions of Armenian intellectual thought were shaped. The stone vaults and austere architectural lines still impress with their harmony and grandeur, preserving the breath of centuries.

Today, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Sanahin stands not only as a monument of architecture but also as a living symbol of the power of knowledge, faith and art that defined medieval Armenia.

3. Tbilisi

140-150 min
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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.

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

Booking conditions

Cancellation & modification

Meet our Guides

Anush Malyans

Anush Malyans

FR FA

I am Anush Malyants, and since 2008 I have been working at "Hyur Service" company as a tour guide in French and Persian. I will be happy to welcome you to Armenia and help you discover this wonderful country. I will also tell you why I have been living here with my family since 2001.

Hilda Mansourian

Hilda Mansourian

HY AR

My name is Hilda Mansourian. I was born in Aleppo. Since 2000, I have been volunteering at AGBU (Armenian Relief Society). I work in Armenian embroidery and as a tour guide. Why choose me? I want my group to return impressed by the beauty of my homeland's history and, above all, by the hospitality reflected in my smile.

Raffi Halajian

Raffi Halajian

HY EN AR

I'm Raffi, and I'm happy to meet you and be your friend during your tour in Armenia. Being born Armenian and having lived in Syria, my work as a tour guide holds special meaning for my guests. I share the experiences of Armenians living abroad and how they have managed to preserve their heritage there.

Anush Gevorgyan

Anush Gevorgyan

HY EN ES

With a deep love for my country and a true passion for storytelling, I bring every tour to life through enthusiasm and local insights. Whether it's uncovering hidden gems or sharing fascinating history, I make every experience unforgettable. Join me on a journey filled with culture, adventure, and authentic moments – you'll leave with amazing memories and a new appreciation for this beautiful destination!

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