Culture & Cuisine of Armenia

Depart the UK for an overnight flight to Yerevan.

Arrive in Yerevan early, where you'll be transferred to your hotel to rest. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour with lunch, visiting the Armenian Opera Theatre, The Cascade, and Mother Armenia statue. Ride the Metro to Republic Square and explore the Post Office before returning to your hotel.

Alternatively, join an optional four-hour gastronomic tour, sampling Armenian dishes like Spas (yogurt soup), Jengyalov Hats (herb-filled flatbread), Dolma, Gavari Kufta (meatballs), and Gata (sweet cake), offering a deeper insight into Armenia’s culinary heritage. (B,L)

Depart Yerevan for the mountain spa town of Jermuk. En route, visit Khor Virap Monastery for panoramic views of Mount Ararat. Continue to Noravank Monastery, known for its dramatic setting in a red-cliffed gorge. Afterward, enjoy a wine-tasting at a local winery, such as Krya Wines or Momik Wines. Arrive in Jermuk for an overnight stay. (B,L)

Start at Karahunj, an ancient megalithic site over 7,500 years old, often compared to Stonehenge, with stones believed to be used for astronomical observations. Then, visit Tatev Monastery, accessed via the world’s longest cable car, spanning 3.5 miles over Vorotan Gorge. Perched high above, Tatev offers medieval architecture and panoramic mountain views. Continue to Goris, known for its rock formations, and visit Khndzoresk, an ancient village with cave dwellings carved into volcanic rock, before returning to Jermuk. (B,L)

Begin with a guided Ranger’s tour of Arpa National Preserved Landscape, where you’ll enjoy views of rugged terrains and spot bezoar goats, a rare endangered species. At the viewpoint, take in stunning mountain and valley scenery. After the tour, enjoy a traditional lunch in nature. On the way back to Yerevan, visit Art Cheese in Yelpin Village for a local cheese tasting. Finish the day with a delicious dinner at an old house-winery in Yerevan, savouring wines from Norqi Keghar. (B,L,D)

In the morning, embark on a scenic drive from Yerevan to visit the incredible Geghard Cave Monastery, built in the 13th century, followed by Garni Temple. The temple, constructed in the first century AD, has been fully restored and stands as the last remnant of a once-thriving complex of palaces and temples. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a private home before continuing your journey to Dilijan. Along the way, experience a Lavash-making masterclass, where you'll also have the chance to participate in either a Gata-making or Jengyalov hats-making session. Make a stop at the stunning Lake Sevan to admire its beauty before continuing to Dilijan. Overnight in Dilijan. (B,L)

Depart for Lake Parz, a serene location nestled in northern Armenia’s forests. En route, visit Red Deer National Park to observe wildlife. Drive through Molokan villages, where the Russian-speaking community preserves unique traditions. Enjoy tea and pancakes at a local home. Continue to Alaverdy to visit a honey farm, learn about honey production, and taste various local varieties. Optional visit to Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before continuing to Dzoraget for the night. (B,L)

After breakfast, head to Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, known for its historical significance, especially during the Soviet era. Enjoy a guided tour, starting with the Aslamazyan Sisters' Museum and the Museum of Urban Life. If possible, visit the oldest Soviet-era textile fabrics. For lunch, sample traditional regional food, then visit the St. Holy Church of Mother of God and Zanan Taraz for a traditional costume-making experience. Optional ceramic-making masterclass at Villa Kars Hotel (£20 extra). (B,L)

Return to Yerevan, stopping at Talin to explore the well-preserved Dashtadem Fortress, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Armenia's rural past. Continue to Byurakan and visit the Sunny Snail Farm for a guided tour of snail farming, followed by a tasting. Optional stop at Saghmosavank Monastery, offering breathtaking views over Kasakh Canyon. End the day with lunch at Chir’s House, where you’ll take part in a masterclass on Armenian sweets and dried fruits before returning to Yerevan. (B,L)

Travel to Echmiadzin, home to the UNESCO-listed Main Cathedral, one of the world’s oldest. It’s the spiritual centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Next, visit the Megeryan Carpet Factory for lunch and a tour, learning about traditional carpet-making and trying weaving. Optional: Explore the historic Kond Quarter in Yerevan. Later, visit Kara Silver Salon to watch artisans craft Armenian silver jewellery, and conclude with a brandy tasting at the Brandy Factory. (B,L)

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK (B).