Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin Monastery, Tbilisi (overnight), main sights of old and new Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, Yerevan

5% discount till May 1

Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin Monastery

1. Haghpat Monastery
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Haghpat Monastery
Situated not far from Sanahin, Haghpat monastery has its significant place in the historical and cultural life of Armenia. It was built during the reign of king Ashot Bagratuni. Numerous valuable manuscripts and miniature paintings have been produced in the scriptorium of Haghpat for many centuries. In the 18th century the famous Armenian bard Sayat-Nova u sed to live and create in this monastery. The belfry with its unique architectural composition is of stunning interest. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
2. Sanahin Monastery
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Sanahin Monastery
The monastery of Sanahin is on the right bank of Debed river. This architectural complex consists of several churches, seminary, book depository. The building of the seminary, which connects St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) and Allsaviour churches, was from the outset built to make the edifices more earthquake-resistant. The site is included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Jvari Monastery, Yerevan

1. Tbilisi
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Tbilisi
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.
2. Mtskheta
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Mtskheta
Mtskheta, the first capital of Christian Georgia, is located at the mix-point of Kura and Aragvi rivers. Historical Monuments of Mtskheta are included in UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. According to the legend, the city was founded by Mtskhetos – the son of Kartlos, who was the eponymous ancestor of the Georgians. One of the Hripsimean nuns – Nune (Nino), who got miraculously released in times of the massacre, fled to Mtskheta to preach Christianity there. First she cured King Mirian's sick son, then Queen Nana. In the 4th century, following the advise of Nune, King Mirian built the first wooden church, in the place of which Vakhtang I Gorgasali built a basilica in the 5th century. At the beginning of the 11th century in the place of the damaged basilica the temple of Svetitskhoveli (translated as a living pillar) was built. Another church – Samtavro monastic complex, was also built by King Mirian, however, it gained its modern look during the reign of Georgi I (11th century).
3. Jvari Monastery
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Jvari Monastery
As a part of Mtskheta city, Jvari (Holy Cross) monastery is as well included in the List of UNESCO's monuments. It was built in the first half of the 7th century in the very same place, where the preacher of Christianity Saint Virgin Nune (Nino) erected a cross. The scenery is described in Lermontov's poem "Mtsyri". The monastery is located on a steep cliff of 150 m high above the surrounding area. A wonderful view opens from here to Mtskheta city – to the mix-point of Kura and Aragvi rivers. Jvari monastery is a building with a square-formed cross plan, its edges are decorated with semicircular absids. The monastery ends up with a drum, having 8 round altars. The building was restored in 2007.
4. Yerevan
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Yerevan
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
  • Explore incredible UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites
  • Experience the art of 10th century Armenian architecture
  • See the most popular sites of the capital of Georgia
  • Stroll along the cozy streets of the old town
  • Feel the incomparable Georgian flavor
  • Marvel at the 7th & 11th centuries' Georgian architecture

*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