How to Plan Your Discover Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple Half-Day Trip in Yerevan

If you’re planning to visit Yerevan, Armenia, then you should definitely include a half-day trip to the medieval Monastery of Geghard and the only pagan temple of Garni. These two architectural monuments have been inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites and have important historical and cultural significance. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Discover Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple half-day trip in Yerevan.

Experience

Admire the medieval Monastery of Geghard and enjoy the beauty of the only pagan temple of Garni. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and learn their importance and see their majesty.

Highlights

• Admire the medieval Monastery of Geghard
• Enjoy the beauty of the only pagan temple of Garni
• Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and learn their importance and see their majesty

Full description

This 4-5 hour amazing short tour presents two diverse architectural monuments of Pagan and Christian Armenia. It will start from Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. The first destination will be the Monastery of Geghard. It is a marvelous monastery complex surrounded by cliffs and mountains. Being partially in caves, it is in full harmonization with nature. After visiting the Monastery of Geghard, we’ll head to the only pagan temple of Garni. It is a unique Hellenistic temple and the only one surviving in the region. It is also located in beautiful surroundings with mountains and canyons.

Inclusions

• Transportation
• Professional guide or driver-guide service
• Entrance tickets for the temple
• Travel documentation
• Mineral water
• Meals

Booking

You can book the tour at this link.

Tour itinerary

Time	Activity
9:00 AM	Hotel pickup
10:00-11:30 AM	Visit to the Monastery of Geghard
12:00-1:00 PM	Travel to the Temple of Garni
1:00-2:00 PM	Visit to the Temple of Garni
3:00 PM	Return to Yerevan
4:00 PM	Hotel drop-off

Tips for the trip

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking involved.
2. Bring sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
3. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful surroundings.
4. Carry some Armenian currency for any purchases you may want to make.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, planning your Discover Geghard Monastery and Garni Temple half-day trip in Yerevan is easy and straightforward. With this tour, you’ll be able to visit two unique architectural monuments that have significant cultural and historical importance. So don’t hesitate and book your tour here to experience the beauty of Armenia.

FAQ About Yerevan

1. What is Yerevan?

Yerevan is the capital city of Armenia. It is located in the central part of the country, at the northeastern edge of the Ararat Plain. Yerevan is the largest city in Armenia, as well as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

2. How do I get to Yerevan?

Yerevan has an international airport, the Zvartnots International Airport, which operates flights to and from many major cities around the world. You can also reach Yerevan by train or bus from neighboring countries.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Yerevan?

Yerevan has many attractions to offer, including:

• The Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum
• The Matenadaran Library of Ancient Manuscripts
• The Cascade Complex of Contemporary Art
• The Opera and Ballet Theatre
• The Republic Square
• The Vernissage Market
• The Yerevan Brandy Factory

4. What is the best time to visit Yerevan?

The best time to visit Yerevan is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) months. The weather is mild during these periods, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery without the heat of the summer or the cold of the winter.

5. What is the currency used in Yerevan?

The currency used in Yerevan is the Armenian dram (AMD). You can exchange your currency to drams at many banks and exchange offices throughout the city.

6. Are there any cultural events and festivals in Yerevan?

Yes, Yerevan hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones are:

• The Yerevan Wine Days Festival (May)
• The Yerevan Jazz Festival (July)
• The Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival (July)
• The Yerevan Book Festival (October)

7. Is Yerevan a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Yerevan is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, like any other big city, you should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Avoid flashing your valuables, especially at night, and be cautious when using public transport.

8. What is the local cuisine in Yerevan?

The local cuisine in Yerevan is rich and diverse, featuring many traditional dishes and flavors. Some of the most popular dishes in Yerevan are:

• Khorovats (barbecue)
• Harissa (porridge with chicken or lamb)
• Khash (soup made from cow’s feet, head, and stomach)
• Lavash (traditional bread)
• Dolma (stuffed vegetables, usually grape leaves)

9. What languages are spoken in Yerevan?

The official language of Yerevan and Armenia is Armenian. However, many people in Yerevan also speak Russian and English, especially in tourist areas and hotels.

10. What are some good places to shop in Yerevan?

Yerevan has many shopping options, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop in Yerevan are:

• The Vernissage Market
• The Yerevan Mall
• The Dalma Garden Mall
• The GUM Market

Book Your Tour Now

Yerevan is a vibrant and historic city that has much to offer to tourists. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, you will find something to enjoy in Yerevan. Use this FAQ as a guide to plan your trip to this beautiful city, and don’t forget to explore all that Yerevan has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Yerevan

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is a city with a rich history and culture that dates back over three thousand years. As a tourist, you will find an array of activities and attractions that will keep you busy and entertained during your stay. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie or an art enthusiast, Yerevan has something to offer. In this article, we will explore some of the best activities and sites that you can explore while in Yerevan.

1. Visit the Cascade Complex

One of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Yerevan is the Cascade Complex, a large staircase which leads to a monument at the top. The Cascade Complex was built between 1971 and 1980 and is a modernist structure that seamlessly blends with the surrounding nature. The monument at the top of the Cascade is dedicated to the famous Armenian artist, Arshile Gorky, and features a small museum with a collection of his works.

2. Explore the Armenian Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide Museum is a heart-wrenching display that commemorates the massacre of over a million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire during World War I. The museum features halls with exhibits, photographs, documents, and multimedia installations that help visitors understand the atrocities and their aftermath. The museum is open seven days a week, and admission is free.

3. Discover the Vernissage Market

If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, the Vernissage Market is a must-visit. The market is located in the center of Yerevan and showcases the best of Armenian handicrafts, from traditional carpets, ceramics, and lacework to paintings and jewelry. The market is open on weekends and is bustling with vendors and locals.

4. Visit the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

The Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex is a solemn monument that commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The complex features an eternal flame, a commemorative wall with the names of the victims, and a museum that showcases the events leading up to the genocide. The complex is open every day, and admission is free.

5. Admire the Architecture of Republic Square

Republic Square is one of the most popular destinations in Yerevan, with its magnificent architecture and picturesque fountains. The square is surrounded by buildings that reflect Armenia’s Soviet past, and the centerpiece is a large dancing water fountain that puts on a stunning light show at night.

6. Taste the Local Cuisine

Armenian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique ingredients, such as pomegranate, eggplant, and bulgur. Yerevan is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, and you cannot leave without trying local favorites like khorovats (barbecue), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and basturma (air-dried beef). You can also visit local markets like the GUM Market or the Yerevan Food market to find fresh produce and spices to take home.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife in Yerevan

Yerevan has a bustling nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Some popular places to go for a night out include Mezzo Club, Calumet Ethnic Lounge, and Hemingway Pub.

8. Walk Through the Streets of the Old Town

Yerevan’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, each with its own charm and character. You can spend hours exploring the area and admiring the old buildings with their unique balconies and carvings. The Old Town is also home to many small cafes and street vendors selling traditional Armenian sweets and snacks.

Book Your Tour Now

Yerevan is a city with a rich culture and history that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From exploring museums and landmarks to tasting traditional Armenian food and enjoying the nightlife, there is something for everyone. These are just a few of the many activities and attractions that you can explore while in Yerevan. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most fascinating cities in the world.