How to Plan Your Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch from Tbilisi

Are you planning to visit Tbilisi and looking for a unique day trip to explore the beauty of Armenia? Look no further than the “Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch” offered by GetYourGuide. This tour takes you to one of Armenia’s most picturesque destinations, Alaverdi. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plan your day trip to Armenia.

Step 1: Booking the Tour

Booking the tour is the first step to planning your day trip to Armenia. The GetYourGuide website makes it easy to book your spot in the tour by providing a link to the tour’s booking page. Click on this link book the tour here and select your preferred date and time to join the tour.

Step 2: Preparing for the Tour

Before setting out on your day trip to Armenia, it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Start by packing comfortable clothing and shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning sites you’ll visit on this tour.

Step 3: Getting to Alaverdi

The starting point of the tour is at the Akhtala Monastery in Alaverdi. Depending on your location in Tbilisi, there are several ways to get to Alaverdi. You can hire a taxi, take public transportation or use the tour’s transport service for an additional fee.

Step 4: Tour Itinerary

The tour starts at the Akhtala Monastery, a 12th-century church surrounded by copper smelting caves and factory. After exploring Akhtala Monastery, the tour takes you to Haghpat Monastery located in Haghpat village, listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Here, you’ll wander through beautiful medieval structures of Haghpat Monastery.

After the exploration, enjoy the traditional Armenian lunch that features mouth-watering local dishes. The tour then proceeds to Sanahin Monastery, another beautiful UNESCO heritage site, and makes three more stops along the way to Sanahin Monastery. See an MiG 21 aircraft and take in the views over Debed Canyon before reaching Sanahin Monastery, where you will discover ancient expressions of Armenian art and mystique.

The Inclusions

GetYourGuide offers entry tickets and visits to all the listed places, including Haghpat Monastery, Sanahin Monastery, and Akhtala Monastery. The tour provides a live tour guide proficient in English, and transportation is by bus, coach van car. Lunch, including Diabetic options, is included.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting day trip from Tbilisi, this “Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch” is undoubtedly worth considering. With numerous stops to various UNESCO heritage sites, local food, and superb sceneries, this tour has a lot to offer. Plan your tour using the above steps and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

Insider’s Guide to Yerevan, Armenia: A Perfect Day Trip from Tbilisi

If you are planning to visit Tbilisi, Georgia and wondering how to spend a day or two outside the city, you should definitely consider visiting Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. Yerevan is only about a 3-hour drive away from Tbilisi, and it offers a rich cultural and historical experience coupled with delicious food and stunning vistas.

Local Attractions

When in Yerevan, do not miss visiting the Republic Square, one of the central and most popular squares in the city. It was built in the 1920s, and it features some beautiful buildings and landmarks such as the Opera House, the National Gallery of Armenia, and the History Museum of Armenia.

Another great place to visit is the Cascade Complex, a massive limestone staircase adorned with sculptures and fountains. It stands opposite the Opera House, and it is a beautiful spot to take in some fresh air and enjoy the view of the city.

For history buffs, the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial is a must-visit. The museum tells the story of the genocide that happened in 1915, and it pays tribute to the victims of the crime.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food, Yerevan has some amazing dining spots and cafes that you should not miss. Here are some of the top picks:

– Lavash is a cozy cafe located near the Opera House which serves traditional Armenian breakfast and lunch dishes such as cheese and greens omelet, tolma (stuffed grape leaves), and hummus. They also have a great selection of tea and coffee.

– The Green Bean Cafe is a trendy spot with an open-air terrace and a welcoming atmosphere. They offer fresh salads, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as some warm dishes such as khinkali (Georgian dumplings).

– Dolmama is a bit more upscale, but it is worth a visit if you are looking for a fine dining experience. As the name suggests, it specializes in dolma, but they also serve other traditional Armenian dishes such as khorovats (barbecue) and khashlama (stewed lamb).

Cultural Experiences

Armenia has a rich culture that is visible in its architecture, music, and dance. When in Yerevan, you should visit some of the cultural centers and museums to get a better sense of the Armenian culture.

– The Matenadaran Museum is located in the heart of Yerevan and it hosts thousands of ancient manuscripts, documents, and books. The museum also offers guided tours in various languages.

– The Ararat Brandy Factory is another cultural spot, especially for those who appreciate good spirits. It is the oldest brandy factory in Armenia, and it produces some of the finest brandy in the world. They offer tours and tastings, so it is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of brandy making in Armenia.

Local History

Armenia has a unique history, with a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Bronze Age. Yerevan is steeped in history, and there are many landmarks and monuments that tell the story of the country’s past.

– The Erebuni Fortress is a must-visit for history lovers. It is the birthplace of Yerevan and dates back to 782 BC. The fortress has been excavated and restored, and you can now walk around the ruins and learn about the ancient history of Armenia.

– The Blue Mosque is another historical landmark that is worth a visit. It is the only active mosque in Yerevan and has a fascinating history. The mosque was built in the 18th century and has undergone many changes over the years. Today, it serves as a symbol of the country’s religious tolerance and diversity.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you have some extra time in Yerevan, you might want to explore some lesser-known spots that are not on the typical tourist radar. Here are some ideas:

– The Yerevan Vernissage is an open-air market that sells traditional Armenian handicrafts. You can find everything from handmade ceramics and jewelry to traditional textiles and carpets. It is open every weekend, and you can easily spend a few hours there browsing the stalls.

– The Cafesjian Center for the Arts is a modern museum located in the Cascade Complex. It mainly showcases contemporary art, but it also features some artworks by Armenian artists.

– The Hrazdan Gorge is a natural reserve that is only a short drive away from the city center. It offers some breathtaking views and hiking trails, so it is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Yerevan is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or just want to get a sense of the Armenian way of life, Yerevan is definitely worth a visit. It is an excellent day trip option from Tbilisi, and it will leave you with plenty of beautiful memories and experiences.