Today, we explore the capital of Georgia – Tbilisi. We will visit its narrow streets, with wooden houses and balconies. Visit Sulfur Bath Area and the State Museum, where the Golden Fund of Georgia is preserved.

Tbilisi is city of diverse culture, we will see Orthodox Churches, Armenian Church, Mosque, Synagogue in the old town. Along with old architecture, we will see important examples of Modern Tbilisi architecture, such as Peace Bridge. After the tour have some free time to explore pretty cafes and bars of the city.

 Overnight in Tbilisi.

Today, we travel to Kakheti region – homeland of wine. First, we visit Sighnaghi – “City of love”. The wall of Sighnaghi is one of the most important historical monuments in the whole Georgia. There is a stunning view of Alazani valley and Caucasus mountains from Sighnaghi. Continue our way to Tsinandali, where we visit local duke’s palace and garden.

The palace used to be cultural and intellectual center of Georgia in 19th century. Later, visit Alaverdi cathedral (11th century), which is a spiritual center of Georgia for a centuries. For the end of our day visit wine-cellar and taste Georgian natural wines. The way of Georgian wine making in Qvevri (Clay pot) is intangible UNESCO world heritage site.

Overnight in Telavi.

Today, we drive via Gombori pass and arrive in ancient capital and religious center of Georgia – Mtskheta. Visit Jvari Monastery (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century), both UNESCO world heritage sites. Afterwards, we drive to Stepantsminda by Georgian Military highway.

On the way to Stepantsminda we will stop at Ananuri architectural complex (17th century). The nature around the complex is very exciting.

Overnight in Stepantsminda.

Stepantsminda and Gergeti Church (14th century) are the most popular tourist destination in Georgia. Gergeti church stands on the hill with the background of proudly overlooking “Mkinvartsveri” Mountain (5047 m.). After breakfast, we will start our walk to Gergeti church, walking up takes around 2 hours and returning back 1 hour.

Return back to Stepantsminda and visit local family. We enjoy lunch with homemade dishes and see how Georgian dish “Khinkali” is made. Later, visit local art studio, where we get familiar with traditional felt crafting methods. 

Overnight in Stepantsminda.

After breakfast, visit Kartli region. First, we see cave-town Uplistsikhe. Thouthands of years ago, great silk roud used to pass here. Uplistsikhe is the oldest cave-town in Georgia. Later, we drive to Gori. We will stop in Gori, hometown of Joseph Stalin. Here we see his birthplace, museum and a private train carriage. With this carriage he traveled to Theiran, Yalta and Postdam. In the evening, return to Tbilisi.

Overnight in Tbilisi.

After breakfast, we drive to Georgian-Armenian border. Change guide and transportation and continue tour to Armenia. We start exploring Armenia with Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries (10th-13th centuries). Both Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries are UNESCO world heritage sites, they look very similar and are located very close to each other.

Afterwards, we drive to Sevan lake – the biggest alpine lake in the world, located on 2000 m. above sea level. 

Overnight in Sevan.

Today, we visit Amberd Fortress, located on 2300 m. above sea level, this is why it’s often called “Fortress in the clouds”. Afterwards, drive to Sagmosavank monastery, located in Ashtarak canyon, its name translates as “Monastery of the Psalms”.

We will also visit the town of Ashtarak and the ancient church of Karmravor (7th century). This miniature church is the best preserved among this type of Armenian churches. Return to Yerevan in the afternoon.

Overnight in Yerevan.

NOTE: Seeing Amberd fortress is possible from Middle May till October.

Today, we have a tour of one of the oldest cities in the world – Yerevan. We will visit old city and Genocide memorial. Continue our tour to Khor-Virap monastery, which is one of the most famous Armenian monastery and is located in front of Biblical mountain – Ararat. Afterwards, visit Echmiadzin Monastery complex, which is the heart of Armenian apostolic church and the religious center of the country. Echmiadzin complex is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For lunch, we visit local house, where we taste traditional Armenian dishes. On the way back to Yerevan visit Zvartnots Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, return to Yerevan.

Overnight in Yerevan.

After breakfast, visit ancient manuscript museum – Matenadaran in Yerevan. Afterwards drive to Garni Temple. This is the only remaining pagan temple in the whole post-Soviet territory. Visit local family inn Garni village, where we see how Armenian Lavash is baked and how Armenian BBQ – Khorovats is made.

After lunch, visit Geghard Monastery, which is very original building and it’s half is hewn in a rock. Geghard Monastery is UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Yerevan for overnight.

Overnight in Yerevan.

Transfer to the airport and departure.