How to Plan Your Small Group Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi with Lunch

If you’re visiting Tbilisi and want to explore nearby Armenia, this small-group tour is an excellent option. On this tour, you’ll have the chance to see two UNESCO-listed monasteries, witness unique Soviet architecture amidst rocky mountains, and taste traditional Armenian dishes in an authentic restaurant. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of planning your tour to Armenia from Tbilisi.

Booking the Tour

To book the tour, you can head to this link: book the tour here. This tour is operated by a third party company, so you’ll need to confirm your spot and provide your details through their booking process.

Itinerary

The tour departs from Tbilisi and takes approximately 1 day. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:

Departure from Tbilisi

You’ll leave Tbilisi at 9:00 AM sharp, so make sure you’re at the meeting point on time. The exact location will be provided to you upon booking confirmation.

Fortified Monastery of Akhtala

Your first stop is the fortified monastery of Akhtala, which is a Georgian-Armenian creation. This monastery is known for its beautifully preserved frescoes, which date back to the 13th century. You’ll get to learn about the thrilling history of this location from your experienced guide.

Haghpat Monastery

Next, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Haghpat Monastery, which was built in the 10th century. This monastery is known for its unique architecture and stunning location amidst the rocky mountains.

Lunch in an Authentic Restaurant

You’ll then have the chance to taste traditional Armenian dishes in an authentic restaurant. This is an excellent opportunity to try some of the local cuisine and immerse yourself in Armenian culture.

Sanahin Monastery

Your final stop is the UNESCO-listed Sanahin Monastery, which was built in the 10th century. This monastery is known for its intricate carvings and stunning location on the edge of a gorge.

Return to Tbilisi

After your last stop, you’ll head back to Tbilisi. The tour is expected to return around 7:00 PM, but the exact time may depend on traffic and other factors.

What’s Included

Here’s what’s included in the tour:

• Transportation in a air-conditioned minivan
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Lunch in an authentic Armenian restaurant

What to Bring

Here are some items that you may want to bring with you on the tour:

• A hat and sunscreen for sun protection
• A camera to capture the stunning scenery
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A water bottle to stay hydrated
• A small bag or backpack to carry your belongings

Conclusion

Overall, the small-group tour to Armenia from Tbilisi is an excellent option for those looking to explore nearby attractions. With visits to two UNESCO-listed monasteries, a unique mix of apocalyptic Soviet architecture and rocky mountains, and traditional Armenian cuisine, this tour is sure to be a memorable experience. To book the tour, head to the link provided above and follow the booking process. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Insider’s Guide to Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, is known for its unique and diverse culture, rich history, delicious food, and beautiful architecture. It’s a city that offers something for everyone, from art lovers to foodies and adventure seekers. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at what the city has to offer and how to make the most of your small group tour to Armenia from Tbilisi, including lunch.

Local Attractions

Tbilisi is home to many unique and fascinating attractions that will delight and engage visitors of all ages. One of the most popular attractions is the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, traditional houses with balconies, and the stunning Narikala Fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the city.

Another must-see attraction is the Tbilisi Botanical Garden, which houses over 4,500 plant species, including rare and exotic plants from all over the world. You can also take a cable car to the Mtatsminda Park, a beautiful park on top of a hill with panoramic views of the city.

Dining Spots

Tbilisi’s food scene is as diverse and rich as its culture, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Some of the best traditional Georgian restaurants in the city include Pasanauri and Shemoikhede Genatsvale. These restaurants serve traditional Georgian dishes such as Khinkali (dumplings filled with meat or cheese), Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and Mtsvadi (grilled meat).

For a more modern and trendy dining experience, head to the Fabrika Tbilisi, a multi-functional space with restaurants, cafes, and bars. One of the most popular restaurants at Fabrika is Bina 37, which serves fusion cuisine inspired by Georgian and European flavors.

Cultural Experiences

Tbilisi is a city steeped in history and culture, with plenty of opportunities to learn about its past and present. One of the best places to start is the Georgian National Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the country’s history and culture.

Another excellent cultural experience is attending a performance at the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions in the country. The theater is known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Local History

Tbilisi’s history dates back thousands of years and has been shaped by various empires and cultures. One of the best places to learn about the city’s history is the Museum of Georgia, which houses exhibits on local history, archeology, and ethnography.

Another must-see historical attraction is the Sameba Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the country. The cathedral is an impressive example of Georgian architecture and is a significant symbol of the country’s Orthodox Christian heritage.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore Tbilisi’s lesser-known attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. One of the most unique off-the-beaten-path experiences is visiting the Abanotubani sulfur baths. These ancient baths date back to the 17th century and are heated by natural sulfur springs.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is hiking to the Turtle Lake located in the outskirts of the city. The lake offers breathtaking views of Tbilisi and its surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind.

In conclusion, Tbilisi is a city that has something for everyone and is the perfect starting point for a small group tour to Armenia. With its rich culture, delicious food, fascinating history, and beautiful attractions, Tbilisi is a city that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.