How to Plan Your Group Tour to Khor Virap, Holy Echmiadzin & Zvartnots Cathedral in Yerevan

Are you planning a trip to Armenia and wondering how to make the most out of your visit? A group tour to Khor Virap, Holy Echmiadzin & Zvartnots Cathedral is a must-do activity that will leave you with lasting memories of the country’s rich cultural heritage.In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your group tour to Khor Virap, Holy Echmiadzin & Zvartnots Cathedral, provide you with essential information about the tour, and tell you what to expect during the trip.

Overview

This full-day tour starts at 9:00 AM and lasts approximately 7 hours. You will visit five iconic sites near Yerevan, including Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Monastery, Zvartnots Cathedral, Saint Hripsime Church, and Saint Gayane Church.

What’s Included

The following are included in the tour package:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Free Wi-Fi
• Private transportation
• Lunch

Meeting and Pickup

The tour operator provides pickup services from various locations in Yerevan. You can select your preferred pickup point during the booking process. The pickup starts at 9:00 AM sharp, so make sure to arrive at the meeting point on time.

Pickup Points

• Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan
• Republic Square (next to the fountain)
• The Swan Lake
• Congress Hotel Yerevan
• Grand Hotel Yerevan

Start Time

The tour starts at 9:00 AM and finishes at approximately 4:00 PM.

What to Expect

Here’s what you can expect during your day trip:

1. Khor Virap

The tour starts with a visit to Khor Virap, which is a 17th-century monastery located at the foot of Mount Ararat. Khor Virap is a significant historical site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before he cured King Trdat III of a severe illness.

2. Echmiadzin Monastery

After Khor Virap, the tour takes you to Echmiadzin Monastery, which is the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the residence of the Catholicos. The monastery was built in the 4th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Zvartnots Cathedral

The tour continues to Zvartnots Cathedral, which is a 7th-century masterpiece of Armenian architecture. The cathedral was destroyed in the 10th century, but its ruins remain to this day and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Saint Hripsime Church

Next on the itinerary is Saint Hripsime Church, which is a 7th-century Armenian Apostolic church named after Saint Hripsime, who was martyred in the 3rd century.

5. Saint Gayane Church

The final stop of the tour is Saint Gayane Church, which is another 7th-century Armenian Apostolic church named after Saint Gayane, who was martyred alongside Saint Hripsime.

Additional Info

Here are some important details you need to know before booking your tour:

Confirmation

You will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details after booking your tour. Please make sure to bring a copy of the email or a printed voucher with you on the day of the tour.

Accessibility

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour. Most travelers can participate in the tour.

Operator

The tour is operated by Positive Day Tour, a reputable tour operator in Armenia.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience’s start time. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be accepted.

Book Your Tour Now

Ready to book your group tour to Khor Virap, Holy Echmiadzin & Zvartnots Cathedral in Yerevan? Click here to book your tour now!

Frequently Asked Questions About Yerevan

If you are planning to visit Yerevan, Armenia’s capital city, it’s natural to have some questions in mind. Here, we have compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions with detailed answers, to help you plan your trip to Yerevan with ease.

1. What is the best time to visit Yerevan?

The best time to visit Yerevan is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Summers in Yerevan can be quite hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C, while winters can be chilly with an average temperature of -10°C. However, if you are a winter-sports enthusiast, then you should plan your visit during the winter months.

2. How to get to Yerevan?

Yerevan is well-connected to the rest of the world by air. Zvartnots International Airport is the main airport of Yerevan with direct and connecting flights to major destinations worldwide. Besides air travel, you can also reach Yerevan by train or bus from neighboring countries such as Georgia or Iran.

3. How to get around Yerevan?

Yerevan is a relatively small city, and most of its tourist attractions are easily accessible by foot. However, if you prefer public transportation, Yerevan has a well-organized bus system with affordable fares. You can also use the Yerevan Metro, which has two lines and covers most of the city’s central areas. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but they can be quite expensive.

4. What are the must-visit places in Yerevan?

Yerevan is a city with a rich history and culture. Some of the must-visit places in Yerevan are:- Republic Square: The central square of Yerevan and the heart of the city’s social and cultural activities.

– The Cascade: A giant stairway with several levels of outdoor terraces, fountains, and sculptures.

– Matenadaran: A repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

– Tsitsernakaberd: A memorial complex dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide.

– Vernissage: A popular open-air market to buy souvenirs, local handicrafts, and art.

5. What is traditional Armenian cuisine?

Armenian cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European flavors. Some of the traditional Armenian dishes that you must try in Yerevan are:- Khorovats: Grilled meat skewers, usually made with lamb or pork.

– Dolma: Stuffed vegetables, usually vine leaves, stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, and herbs.

– Lavash: A thin, flatbread that accompanies almost every meal in Armenia.

– Harissa: A porridge dish made with chicken and wheat berries.

– Armenian barbecue: a platter of a variety of grilled meats.

6. What is the most famous landmark of Yerevan?

The most famous landmark of Yerevan is the Cascade, a giant stairway that leads up to the Monument Neighborhood, overlooking the city. The Cascade is adorned with several sculptures and has outdoor terraces that offer stunning views of Mount Ararat.

7. What souvenirs can I buy in Yerevan?

Yerevan is an excellent place for souvenir shopping, and you can find a wide range of items to take back with you. Some of the most popular souvenirs of Yerevan are:- Armenian brandy and wine.

– Handmade dolls, pottery, and other handicrafts.

– Traditional Armenian musical instruments like the Duduk.

– Local dried fruits and nuts.

– Armenian carpets and rugs.

8. Is Yerevan safe for tourists?

Yerevan is a relatively safe city, and tourists can move around freely without any significant security concerns. However, like any other tourist destination, it’s essential to take necessary precautions such as not leaving personal belongings unattended and avoiding unknown areas after dark.

9. What is the dress code in Yerevan?

Yerevan is a modern city, and there are no strict dress codes. However, it’s a good idea to dress modestly while visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees. During winters, it can get quite cold, so it’s advisable to carry appropriate warm clothing.In conclusion, Yerevan is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. We hope that this post has helped answer some of your questions and has provided you with valuable information to plan your trip to Yerevan. Enjoy your visit!

How To Spend Your Time As A Tourist in Yerevan

Yerevan is a beautiful city that you would not want to miss when you are visiting Armenia. The city is historically rich and offers a lot of things to do for tourists. However, with so many attractions in the city, it can be challenging to choose what to do during your limited stay. In this blog post, we have put together some of the best things to do in Yerevan that will make your stay in the city memorable.

1. Visit the Republic Square

The Republic Square is the central and most famous square in Yerevan. It is located at the heart of the city and has significant historical significance as the location where Armenian’s independence was declared in 1991. The square is an excellent spot for taking pictures with friends and loved ones. The square is surrounded by the National Art Gallery, Government Buildings, and the History Museum. There are various cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite while enjoying the view.

2. Explore Cascade Complex

Cascade complex is an architectural masterpiece built in the heart of Yerevan. It is a giant stairway made up of limestone that links the city center with the Victory Park district. There is an art museum called the Cafesjian Museum of Art inside the complex that exhibits contemporary artworks. It is an excellent space to take photos with loved ones and get a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat.

3. Visit The Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex

The Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex is a must-visit place in Yerevan, especially for genocide survivors and their families. The complex has several buildings and an excellent museum that commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The main structure of the museum is a massive stone structure that holds thousands of etched names of Armenians that lost their lives in the early 20th century. It is a place of deep historical significance and worth visiting.

4. Visit The Matenadaran

If you love books and history, Matenadaran is a place you should not miss. It is home to ancient manuscripts of a variety of subjects, including religion, literature, and philosophy. The collection dates back to several centuries and is a real treasure for the Armenian nation. The building itself is an architectural wonder.

5. Go On A Wine Tour

Armenia has a rich history in winemaking, and taking a wine tour to one of the wineries in the surrounding areas of Yerevan is a fantastic way to spend your day. The wineries offer visitors a chance to sample different varieties of wine, learn the winemaking process, and indulge in the local cuisine. Some of the best-known wine regions around Yerevan include Ararat, Armavir, and Vayots Dzor.

6.Visit Garni Temple

Garni is an ancient pagan temple located on a hill that overlooks the Azat river valley. The temple’s style and design, which features Greco-Roman and Armenian elements, make it a unique place to visit. Besides the temple, the Garni village has several other historical landmarks like castles and monasteries that you can check out.

7. Excursion To Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap Monastery is just an hour’s drive away from the city center, and it sits at the foot of the majestic Mount Ararat. The monastery is an essential religious site in Armenia, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for fourteen years before he converted King Tiridates III to Christianity. The monastery compound also houses other buildings built over the centuries, making it a fantastic place to explore Armenian history.

Conclusion

Yerevan is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the world, offering an ideal mix of historic and cultural landmarks. It has several places to visit and things to do, as listed above. When making your travel plans, be sure to include as many of these attractions as possible for a well-rounded experience. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your visit to Yerevan. Safe travels!