How to Plan Your Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Day-Trip in Yerevan

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is a beautiful and historic city with plenty of attractions worth visiting. However, if you want to explore more of the country, a day trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev monasteries is a must. Here’s how to plan your tour.

Experience

This full-day tour takes you to three of the most important religious sites in Armenia: Khor Virap Monastery, Noravank Monastery, and Tatev Monastery. Along the way, you’ll travel through stunning landscapes and enjoy a cable car ride over the mountains.

Highlights

Some of the tour’s highlights include:

• A visit to Khor Virap Monastery with stunning views of Mt. Ararat
• Exploring Noravank Monastery, one of the best-preserved medieval sites in Armenia
• A scenic cable car ride to Tatev Monastery, 55km above the mountains
• Hotel pickup and drop-off, and tea/coffee for refreshment

Tour Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect on this day-trip:

• At 9:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Yerevan by a professional driver and experienced guide.
• You’ll then drive to the village of Lusarat, where you can buy souvenirs and admire the beautiful local scenery.
• Next, you’ll visit Khor Virap Monastery, situated at the foot of Mt. Ararat. This site is especially significant to Christians, as it’s where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 12 years before King Tiridates III freed him.
• After Khor Virap, you’ll head to Areni village to sample one of the best wines in Armenia. You’ll have the opportunity to taste and buy local wine varieties before setting off for Noravank Monastery.
• Noravank Monastery, founded in the 13th century, is one of the most beautiful and significant monasteries in Armenia. Here, you can explore the architectural wonders of the site and learn about its religious and historical significance.
• Finally, you’ll visit Tatev Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, via the world’s longest reversible cable car. The cable car offers stunning views of Armenia’s natural landscapes, including the Vorotan River Gorge and the Shambavank Mountains. You’ll spend approximately 2 hours at Tatev Monastery before departing for your hotel in Yerevan, arriving around 7:00 PM.

Inclusions

The tour includes the following:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional drivers and experienced guide
• Headsets to hear the tour guide clearly
• Cable car ticket to Tatev Monastery
• Food and drinks (tea coffee)

Restrictions

Please note the following restrictions:

• The tour may not be suitable for people over 331 lbs (150kg).
• People over 70 years may find this tour challenging due to the amount of walking involved.

Book Your Tour

If you’re interested in booking this tour, you can do so by following this link.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting Khor Virap, Noravank, and Tatev Monasteries is an unforgettable experience and a must-visit for any traveller interested in Armenian history and culture. By following the above itinerary and booking your trip ahead of time, you can ensure an unforgettable day trip from the bustling metropolis of Yerevan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yerevan

Yerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia. It is a vibrant city with a rich history and a unique blend of old and new cultures. As a popular destination for tourists, Yerevan offers many attractions and experiences to explore. If you’re planning a trip to Yerevan, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you plan your visit.

1. What is the best time to visit Yerevan?

The best time to visit Yerevan is from late spring to early autumn, between May and October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 25°C (77°F) in the summer months. However, if you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds, you can visit Yerevan in late autumn or winter. The winter season offers a snowy landscape and is great for winter sports.

2. How do I get to Yerevan?

Yerevan is serviced by Zvartnots International Airport, which is located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) west of the city center. Many airlines operate flights to Yerevan, including Air Armenia, Aeroflot, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines. You can also reach Yerevan by train or bus from other parts of Armenia and neighboring countries.

3. What are the top attractions in Yerevan?

Yerevan offers many attractions for visitors, including:

• The Erebuni Fortress, which dates back to 782 BC
• The Matenadaran Museum, which houses a collection of ancient manuscripts and books
• The Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, which is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide
• The Cascade Complex, which is a series of outdoor steps and terraces that offer panoramic views of the city
• The Republic Square, which is the most central and busiest square in Yerevan and features many shops, cafes, and restaurants
• The Yerevan Brandy Factory, which offers tours and tastings of Armenian brandy

4. What are the best places to eat in Yerevan?

Yerevan is known for its delicious food and many restaurants offer traditional Armenian cuisine. Some of the best places to eat in Yerevan include:

• Tospia Restaurant, which offers traditional Armenian food
• Vordan Karmir, which offers slow-cooked Armenian cuisine
• Lavash Restaurant, which offers Armenian and Caucasian cuisine
• Dolmama Restaurant, which offers Armenian and Mediterranean cuisine
• Malkhas Jazz Club, which features live music and Armenian cuisine

5. What is the local currency in Yerevan?

The local currency in Yerevan is the Armenian Dram (AMD). It is recommended to exchange your currency at a bank or exchange office as opposed to exchanging money on the street. Major credit cards are also accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops.

6. What is the language spoken in Yerevan?

The official language of Yerevan is Armenian, however, many people speak Russian and English as well.

7. What should I wear in Yerevan?

Yerevan has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, it is recommended to wear light clothing and comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved when exploring the city. During the winter months, warm clothing is a must as temperatures can drop below freezing. It is also recommended to bring waterproof clothing in case of snow or rain.

8. What are the customs and traditions in Yerevan?

Armenians are known for their hospitality and generosity. It is customary to shake hands when meeting someone, and when invited into someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift like flowers or sweets. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.

9. What are the transportation options in Yerevan?

Yerevan has a well-developed public transportation system consisting of buses, trolleybuses, and minibusses. Taxis are also a popular way to get around the city. It is recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in the taxi.

10. Is Yerevan a safe city for tourists?

Yerevan is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is recommended to take the usual precautions, such as not carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive jewelry. It is also recommended to stay vigilant in crowded areas and watch out for pickpockets.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Yerevan: A Comprehensive Guide

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is a city that has a rich history and culture. As a tourist, you will undoubtedly find a lot of things to do and see in this amazing city. This guide will show you some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Yerevan.

1. Visit the Republic Square

The Republic Square is the centerpiece of Yerevan, and it’s hard to miss. This majestic square is surrounded by pink tufa buildings, including the National History Museum, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Marriott Hotel. It’s a great place to walk around, relax, and people watch. The square is also home to the famous singing fountains, which offer a spectacular show in the evenings.

2. Explore the Cascade Complex

The Cascade Complex is a giant staircase that connects the center of Yerevan to the hills above it. It’s quite an impressive sight, and it’s worth exploring not just for the views but for the art installations as well. The complex is adorned with sculptures and modern installations, which are often changed, so there is always something new to see.

3. Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial

The Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial is a somber and emotional place that commemorates the genocide that occurred in the early 20th century. The museum contains documents, photographs, and personal belongings of the victims. The memorial is a towering structure that offers a stunning view of the nearby mountain ranges.

4. Check Out the Markets

Yerevan has several markets, and they are worth checking out for their unique atmosphere and bustling activities. The most popular ones are the GUM Market and the Vernissage Market. The GUM Market is where you can find delicious fresh fruits, vegetables, and Armenian treats. The Vernissage Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, arts, and crafts.

5. Visit the Matenadaran

The Matenadaran is one of the most important repositories of ancient manuscripts in the world. It houses over 17,000 Armenian manuscripts, including some of the oldest in existence. If you are interested in history and literature, this place is a must-see.

6. Take a Walk in the Northern Avenue

The Northern Avenue is a modern pedestrian boulevard that has become a popular meeting point in Yerevan. It’s lined with stylish cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to hang out and people watch. If you are interested in shopping, this is the place for you.

7. Visit the Erebuni Fortress

The Erebuni Fortress is an ancient Armenian citadel that dates back to 782 BC. It’s one of the oldest surviving fortresses in the world, and it’s a great place to get a glimpse of Armenian history. The fortress is located on a hill overlooking Yerevan, and the views are breathtaking.

8. Explore the Cafesjian Center for the Arts

The Cafesjian Center for the Arts is a modern art museum that is housed in the Cascade Complex. It features an impressive collection of contemporary art, as well as exhibitions from local and international artists. If you are interested in art, this is a great place to visit.

Book Your Tour Now

Yerevan is a city full of character and culture. From stunning architecture, amazing food, and art to historical landmarks and monuments, there is always something new to explore. Use this guide to plan your trip to Yerevan and make the most of your time in this amazing city.