22 DECEMBER - DAY 1: Arrival in Yerevan - tour of the city centre
Meeting at El. 1. Upon arrival at Yerevan airport, you will be welcomed by your local guide. During your transfer to the hotel you will have your first introduction to the magnificent Pink City. You will tour the centre of Yerevan, where you will see the Republic Square, considered the heart of the city, with imposing government buildings and the Museum of Armenian History. You will also pass by the State University and the Opera House, and experience the modern and cosmopolitan side of Yerevan. After completing the first tour, you will be transferred to the hotel and have free time to explore the city on your own. Yerevan is known for its beautiful cafes and friendly people. Overnight in Yerevan.
23 DECEMBER - DAY 2: Yerevan city tour.
Full breakfast at the hotel and start your day with a visit to the monastery of Khor Virap, located near the border with Turkey at the foot of the legendary Mount Ararat. The monastery is known for its historical significance, as St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned there for 13 years before turning Armenia into the first Christian nation. The view from Khor Virap towards Ararat is simply breathtaking, offering excellent photographic opportunities. After returning to Yerevan, an extensive tour of the city will follow. You will visit the Museum of Armenian History, which houses rich ancient collections, including the world's oldest shoes and wine, as well as artefacts from the Bronze Age. Next stop is Matenadaran, one of the oldest and largest manuscript museums in the world. Here you will see ancient Armenian and foreign manuscripts that are cultural treasures. Visit to "Gum" fruit market. Here you will find fresh fruits, nuts, spices and many traditional sweets. It is the perfect place to sample Armenian flavours and pick up some souvenirs and gifts. In the evening you will return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
24 DECEMBER - DAY 3: Free day - Dinner in a traditional restaurant
Breakfast at the hotel. Day free for leisurely strolls through the Christmas market or personal activities. Explore the city or enjoy a stroll through the cafes of Republic Square. Dinner at a traditional tavern with live traditional music, perfect for experiencing authentic Armenian hospitality. Overnight in Yerevan.
25 DECEMBER - DAY 4: Yerevan - Ziarat Temple - Ejmiatsin - Zvartnots - Yerevan
Breakfast at the hotel and your day begins with a visit to the Yezidi Ziarat Temple in Aknalich. This temple is the largest Yezidi worship centre in the world, dedicated to the Yezidi religious minority, with a unique architecture and strong religious symbolism. Next, you will visit the Ejmiatsin Cathedral, considered the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the first Christian cathedral in the world, built in 303 AD. The importance of Ejmiatsin is immense, not only for Armenia, but also for world Christianity, as it is the seat of the Catholic Church of all Armenians. Next stop is the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, one of the most impressive examples of 7th century Armenian architecture. The cathedral is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and although it has been destroyed by an earthquake, its ruins are impressive in their architectural elegance. After the tour, you will enjoy a lunch in a traditional Armenian country house, where you will have the opportunity to cook and taste traditional Armenian dishes in a welcoming environment. Return to Yerevan and walk to the open-air art and craft market "Vernissage" where you will find handmade jewelry, woodcarvings, paintings and other artistic works. This market is ideal for discovering Armenian art and crafts and getting unique souvenirs. Overnight in Yerevan.
DECEMBER 26 - DAY 5: Garni Temple - Symphony of Stones - Geghard Monastery - Sevan - dinner - transfer to the airport
Breakfast at the hotel and the first visit of the day is the Garni Temple, the only preserved pagan temple in Armenia, dating back to the 1st century AD. The temple is dedicated to the sun god, Mithra, and its architecture, which combines Greek and Roman elements, is impressive. Its location, on a natural plateau overlooking the Azat River gorge, offers stunning views and is one of the most popular photo spots. Nearby the temple is the "Symphony of Stones", a natural geological formation of basalt columns that resembles a church organ. This unique site was created by the cooling of lava and is one of Armenia's most impressive natural monuments. The next stop is the Geghard Monastery, a masterpiece of Armenian architecture that includes carved rocks and was built in the 4th century. The name Geghard means "Monastery of the Spear" and is associated with the spear used to pierce Christ on the cross. The unique architecture and mystical atmosphere of the monastery make it one of the most important religious centers in Armenia. Afterwards, you will participate in a traditional lesson of making lavash, the Armenian unleavened bread, a staple of Armenian cuisine and cultural heritage. You will enjoy a meal that includes freshly baked lavash along with local specialties. After lunch, you will head to Lake Sevan, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world and the "pearl" of Armenia. The lake is surrounded by mountains and its shores are home to the Sevanavank Monastery, built in the 9th century. The natural beauty of the lake combined with the historical significance of the monastery offer a unique experience. Farewell dinner in a traditional restaurant and transfer to the airport.
27 DECEMBER - DAY 6: Return flight - arrival in Athens.
Flight to Athens. Return home full of beautiful memories.
