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Ultimate Armenia to Georgia Culture Tour with Koutaissi
Overview
If you are looking for a unique holiday destination packed full of new experiences, then look no further! Our 15-day Armenia to Georgia culture tour explores two spectacular countries, ticking off a variety of scenic hotspots, quaint villages and ancient UNESCO sites along the way. If you are looking for the ultimate adventure across the Caucus region then this tour has everything you could wish for and beyond.
4×4 Experience around Mt Kazbegi
City tours of Tbilisi and Yerevan
Discovering the Zorats Karer ‘Armenian Stonehenge’
Exclusive wine tasting experience in Areni
Exploring the Garni Temple
Spectacular views of the Alazani Valley from the old-Georgian city of Signagi
Stopping in the beautiful mountainous region of Dilijan
Visiting the Ancient Cities of Mtskheta and Koutaïssi
Visiting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Zvartnots Temple, Gelati monastery and Echmiatsin Cathedral
Itinerary
Yerevan
The capital of Armenia and its largest city, Yerevan has been occupied since the 8th century BC and is one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in the world. Although the city is known for its Soviet architecture, it has a vibrant cultural identity which it expresses through classical artistry, musical fountains, unique museums and its founding landmark, Erebuni Fortress.
Arrival Transfer
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Day 2
City Tour of Yerevan
After a good night’s sleep breakfast will kick off your experience with a Yerevan city tour where you see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks including Republic Square, the Mother Armenia Monument, the President’s Palace and more.
Breakfast
City Tour
Mother Armenia Monument
Republic Square
Genocide Memorial and Museum
Cascade Complex of modern art
Scenic Surrounds
Armenian Central Market
Souvenir Shopping
Day 3
Visiting Ancient Temples in Garni
After having breakfast in your hotel, your driver will take you to Matenadaran, one of the largest depositories of ancient manuscripts in the world with scripts dating back as far as the 7th century.
Breakfast
Garni Temple
Scenic Surrounds
Geghard Monastery
Cultural Immersive Experience
Prominent Landscape
Optional Extras
Day 4
Trip to Zvartnots temple
After breakfast, you will start the day with a visit to two Armenian heritage sites. The first, a journey to Zvartnots, a temple built in the 7th century displaying a unique example of Armenian architecture for the early Christian period and the Echmiatsin Cathedral. The museum of the Cathedral has a huge collection of religious artefacts made from gold, silver and precious stones along with a legendary holy spear.
Breakfast
Zvartnots Temple
Prominent Landscape
Religious Buildings & Monuments
Echmiatsin Cathedral
Scenic Surrounds
Free Time
Day 5
Wine Tasting in Areni
You will start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out on a drive to the Ararat Valley to visit the Khor Virap Church where you will see the best views of the biblical Mt Ararat and delve into the dungeon beneath.
Breakfast
Travel to
Yeghegis
A quaint village nestled in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia, Yeghegis, has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many medieval buildings including Zorats Church, the Tsakhats Kar Monastery and a nearby Jewish cemetery. Yeghegis has endured a tumultuous past with neighbouring Azerbaijan, most notably the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict which saw the exodus of the Azerbaijani population of the village.
Day 6
Visiting the Zorats Karer Observatory
After breakfast, your driver will take you to a 13th century Jewish cemetery built by an old Jewish community who fled from Persia to Armenia between the 13th and 14th centuries. Here, you will explore the cemetery grounds and see over 60 tombstones written in both Jewish and Aramaic.
Breakfast
13th century Jewish cemetery
Guided History Tour
Zorats Karer Observatory
“Armenian Stonehenge” petroglyphs
Prominent Landscape
Optional Extras
Travel to
Sevan
A popular resort area in Armenia, Sevan is situated on the north-western shore of Lake Sevan, a natural beauty spot within the Sevan National Park. The city was founded as Yelenovka in the 19th century after Yelena Pavlovna the daughter of Tsar Paul I of Russia before being renamed in 1935 to Sevan after the nearby lake. It noted for the 9th century, Sevanavank Monastery, a unique example of medieval Armenian architecture.
Day 7
Experience Spectacular Views of Lake Sevan
After breakfast, you can start your morning with a ride on the ‘Tatever’, known for being the longest ropeway in the world, stretching over the canyons to the Monastery of Tatev. Your driver will then begin the journey to Sevan Lake via the spectacular Selim Pass. On the way, you will stop to visit the Selim Pass Karavansaray, which was used as a rest stop by Silk road caravans in times gone by.
Breakfast
Lake Sevan
Prominent Landscape
Tatever ropeway
Monastery of Tatev
Selim Pass Karavansaray
Scenic Surrounds
Free Time
Day 8
Walking Tour in Dilijan
After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the beautiful region of Dilijan, known as the ‘Armenian Switzerland’. Enjoy a short walking tour of the city including a visit to the handicrafts market where you get to see souvenirs created in wood, stone and ceramics.
Breakfast
Dilijan
Prominent Landscape
City Tour
Souvenir Shopping
Haghartsin Monastery
Scenic Surrounds
Transfer
Armenian-Georgian border at Sadakhlo
Travel to
Tbilisi
Located on the banks of the Kura River, Tbilisi, is the capital and largest city of Georgia. The city was a point of contention between many empires due to its prominent position on the Silk Road and has been under Persian and Russian rule which has contributed to its ecclectic architectural style. Tbilisi is best known for its Orthodox cathedrals, sulphur baths, and the Narikala Fortress, a reconstructed 4th-century fortress that overlooks the city.
Day 9
City Tour of Tbilisi
Today, you will embark on a sightseeing tour of Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi.
Breakfast
City Tour
Tbilisi Old City
Metekhi Church
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Narikala fortress
Scenic Surrounds
Rustaveli Avenue
Souvenir Shopping
Day 10
Visit to Signagi ‘City of Love’
After a hotel breakfast, you will drive to the Kakheti region in eastern Georgia, known exclusively its fantastic vineyards and wineries. You will first stop at the ancient city of Signagi (known as the city of Love) where you will see the splendour of Georgian architecture from stone paved streets to old-Georgian style balconies, while overlooking magnificent Alazani Valley. Your driver will continue the road to Kvareli where you will check into your hotel for the evening.
Breakfast
Kakheti region
Prominent Landscape
Signagi ‘City of Love’
Alazani Valley
Scenic Surrounds
Free Time
Optional Extras
Travel to
Kvareli
A town situated in the Alazani Valley in North-East Georgia, Kvareli, is the centre of the Kakheti wine-producing region. Aside from its idyllic vineyards, the town is also known for being the birthplace of Georgian author Ilia Chavchavadze; whose fortified house is preserved as a local museum.
Day 11
Exploring the house of famous poet Alexander Chavchavadze
After a light breakfast and checking out of your hotel, your driver will pick you up and take you to Gremi Village where you will see the Monastery of Gremi, one of the masterpieces of late medieval Kakhetian architecture. Next, you will set out on the road to Tsinandali where you will get to visit the museum- house of aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze. Here, you will get time to explore the memorial house, landscape garden, historical winery and wine cellar before continuing onto Telavi.
Breakfast
Monastery of Gremi
museum-house of Alexander Chavchavadze
Prominent Landscape
Tsikhe complex
Scenic Surrounds
Dakishvili Vineyard
Wine tasting
Food & Drink Experience
Travel to
Telavi
Situated in the foothills of the Gombori Range in the Eastern province of Kaheti, Georgia, the city of Telavi is the administrative centre of the region. The city has a rich history with archaeological records dating back as far as the 2nd century BC. During the 10th to 12th centuries, it was the capital of the Kingdom of Kakheti, later becoming one of the most important political and economic centres during the Georgian Golden Age.
Day 12
Visiting the Ancient City of Mtskheta
After breakfast, your driver will take you to Mtskheta, one of the oldest cities in Georgia and the former capital of the ancient Georgian kingdom from 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. While in Mtskheta, you will visit some more recent reminders of Georgian history in the form of the 11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and 6th century Jvari Monastery.
Breakfast
Mtskheta Old City
Prominent Landscape
11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
6th century Jvari Monastery
Ananuri castle complex
Scenic Surrounds
Expert Guide
Travel to
Gudauri
A popular ski resort area situated on the south-facing plateau of the Georgian Caucasus Mountain range, Gudauri is popular with tourists from across the world. The resort enjoys a long ski season spanning from December to April and Its slopes at an elevation of 7,200 ft, are considered some of the safest with scenic, clear views.
Day 13
4×4 Experience around Mt Kazbegi
After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, you will continue to drive on the route to Kazbegi by crossing the Jvari Pass. The next part of the journey will take you on a 4×4 experience to get to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church situated under Mt Kazbegi. The church is a remarkable monument of Georgian architecture, near to the village of Gergeti.
Breakfast
Mount Kazbegi
Prominent Landscape
Gergeti Holy Trinity Church
Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) town
Scenic Surrounds
Joseph Stalin Museum
Guided History Tour
Expert Guide
Travel to
Kutaisi
A historic city nestled deep in Western Georgia, Kutaisi, is on the doorstep of many of the country’s most famous landmarks. It is home to the Bagrati Cathedral and the medieval Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with elaborate frescoes. In addition to its rich historical significance, the city is located near to many natural landmarks including the Prometheus Cave with its awe-inspiring waterfalls and stunning panoramas.
Day 14
Panoramic Tour of the Ancient City of Kutaisi
After breakfast, you will set off on your final trip to Kutaisi. Here, you will take a full tour of the ancient city including the Lado Meskhishvili dramatic theatre, central square, the Okros Chardakhi (golden tent) and take a stroll around the central park.
Breakfast
City Tour
Lado Meskhishvili dramatic theatre
Okros Chardakhi – Golden tent Palace
Scenic Surrounds
Gelati monastery
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Free Time
Souvenir Shopping
Day 15
Breakfast
Free Time
Scenic Surrounds
Souvenir Shopping
Departure Transfer
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More information
What’s included
4×4 jeeps in Kazbegi- Accommodation as part of the tour
- Activities (as specified in the tour itinerary)
- All tours are COVID-19 secure and offer flexible booking options. Visit our Covid-19 information page to find out more
- English guide and local driver
- Food and drink (as mentioned in the tour itinerary)
- Tatev rope way entry tickets
- Transport as part of the tour including airport / railway station transfers
- Wine degustation
What’s not included
International train / plane tickets- Optional excursions and activities
- Personal costs (souvenirs, additional snacks etc)
- Professional photo & video shooting in museums
- Tips for drivers/guides/in restaurants
- Travel / medical insurance
- Visas
Travel Tips
All travellers are asked to check the vaccination requirements before travel. Visit our Vaccines and Health page to find out more- Any dietary or allergy requirements will need to be disclosed before the start of the tour
- Carrying a water bottle with you is recommended
- Medication should always be taken with you and kept on your person
- Please ensure that you keep any personal documents and valuables on your person at all times
- WIFI will be available at most of the hotels, although mobile coverage may vary in rural areas
- Your local guides will recommend stops where you can go souvenir shopping during your tour
Special notes
The itinerary, prices and departure dates for this tour will be confirmed on request.
Suggested reading
Enrich your travel experience with our list of top recommended books from specialist travel guides to compelling novels. Whether you are looking for something to pass the time on the train, or want to get to grips with the local history, reading is essential to turning your trip into a fully-fledged experience.
Armenian History: A Captivating Guide to the History of Armenia and the Armenian Genocide
A magnificent guide delving into one of the worlds lesser-known regions, this book will explore the rich heritage and often tumultuous history of Armenia. The country has endured many invasions, revolutions and rebellions dating over a millennia, yet, despite being under the reign of many empires from the Romans to the Ottomans, the country has carved a unique cultural identity that can still be found within its surviving monuments and, of course, its people.
Edge of Empires: A History of Georgia
Standing at the crossroads of Europe and the Muslim world, Georgia is a country of extremes and, historically, one of the most turbulent histories known in the Christian world. Yet, despite its political and cultural significance few histories have really got to grips with the country, offering a post-Soviet focus. Rayfield works to readdress the balance covering the history of Georgia from its traces in ancient Anatolia right up to the present day and the formation of a new Georgia after the collapse of the Soviet Union. This compelling text is a must for anyone looking to learn more about Georgian history.
Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan
The ultimate guidebook to the Caucasus that no tourist can go without! Lonely Planet’s Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan is packed full of almost everything you need when travelling to these three spectacular Caucasus countries including the best places to eat in its most popular cities, what you need to see while you are there, cultural highlights and more. In addition to its noteworthy insider tips about key attractions such as the Sheki Palace, Narikala Fortress and the monasteries of Armenia, this guide includes regional maps that are invaluable to even the most seasoned traveller.
The Art of Armenia: An Introduction
Featuring illustrations of the fascinating artist examples from across the breath of Armenia, this introduction to the art of Armenia is perfect for those wanting to learn more about not only art, but Armenian culture as a whole. Armenia’s visual culture dates as far back as the Palaeolithic era and is diverse as it is old with influences from Byzantium, the Islamic world, Yuan-dynasty China, and 17th century Europe and beyond, and this book presents a chronological timeline of art ranging from antiquity to the early 18th century.
Yes and No Stories: A Book of Georgian Folk Tales
An incredible collection of folk tales and long held traditions from Georgia. Papashvily brings together tales from all corners of Georgia with spectacular illustrations from a Russian émigré fine artist and theatrical designer. These children’s tales are firmly cemented in the traditions of Georgian culture told with a unique voice and filled with unexpected humorous twists. As the old storyteller says himself “a story is a letter that comes to us from yesterday. Each man who tells it adds his word to the message – and sends it on to tomorrow.”
Visa Information
No Visa Required
