Scintillating Armenia & Georgia

Day 01                     Arrival - Yerevan City Tour

Arrival at Zvartnots International Airport. Welcomed by our Travel Expert and transfer to the selected hotel and check-in the reception desk. Relax and revive, later in evening head for Yerevan City Tour history of which goes back to 8th century. The sightseeing tour includes visit to Republic Square, Northern Avenue, Opera House with Swam Lake, Cascade Monument which is considered to be the Center of art of the city as here you can find unique sculptures. As the night becomes young the city becomes more charming with all its lights and people from all over the world. Do not forget to visit Republic Square in the dark to enjoy the “Dancing Fountains” which gathers people around to show its choreographed water show synchronized with lights and music.  Overnight will be at your selected hotel.

After breakfast depart for a visit to Geghard Monastery (13th century) – a monastery which is hewn out from a cave. It had been originally named Ayrivank meaning "The Monastery of the Cave". The name commonly used for the monastery today, Geghard, or more fully Geghardavank meaning "The Monastery of the Spear". This Site is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Continue our journey to Garni Pagan Temple from 1st century. The temple was built by Armenia King Tiridates and was dedicated to the God of Sun Mithra. Garni is the only Hellenistic Temple existing nowadays in Armenia. The stairs of the temple are purposely constructed super-sized which meant that every human being climbing up the stairs is condescending to the God of Sun. Drive back to Yerevan to visit Vernissage Flea Market which offers many kinds of national souvenirs, ornaments and many traditional items. You can also visit Dalma Garden Mall for some shopping. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel head straight to Lake Sevan (70 kms from the capital) which is going to be one of the highlights of your trip. Climb the stairs up on the peninsula from where opens a fascinating view to the “blue-eyed” lake. Sightseeing tour on the peninsula. Lake Sevan is considered to be one of the largest sweet lakes in the world at an altitude of 1897 meters above sea level. Departure to the resort town of Dilijan which is considered to be the “Little Switzerland” of Armenia. Wander through Shahamberyan Street where you can look around the wooden traditional buildings and architecture from 19th century. Drive to Haghpat Monastery (966 AD) from where overlook the Debed River. Departure to Armenia – Georgia Sadakhlo border.  Meet at the Sadakhlo border in the afternoon and transfer to Tbilisi. Upon arrival complete the check-in formalities and later in the evening have a short excursion in Tbilisi city. The walk tour takes you to Rustaveli Avenue, where attractions such as the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, The Parliament, Rustaveli Theatre, Art Galleries and Cafes will draw your attention and provide a cosmopolitan atmosphere. After a momentous day of leisure return back to hotel for a good night's sleep in Tbilisi.

After breakfast drive to Mtskheta (UNESCO Heritage), an ancient capital of the Georgian Kingdom. Visit the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari church.  Afterwards return back to Tbilisi for a City tour. Visit the Old Tbilisi Sulfur Baths, Georgian Orthodox and Armenian Gregorian Churches, Jewish Synagogue besides Turkish Mosque side by side reflecting city’s acceptance and tolerance of different religions. Also visit the Metekhi Church, which is erected on the cliff overlooking the Mtkvari River. Later drive by the cable car to the Narikala Fortress, established in the fourth Century. Walk downtown and discover Shardeni Street with its fashionable cozy cafes and art galleries. You will come across the Anchiskhati church, the oldest church in Tbilisi keeping the miraculous icon of Jesus Christ.  Finally visit the Funicular and have time for leisure. Overnight stay in hotel.

According to the flight details, transfer to the airport and departure home.