Private Tour to The Arch of Charents Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery in Yerevan: Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a trip to Yerevan and looking for a personalized way to explore some of Armenia’s most fascinating sites? If so, then this private tour to the Arch of Charents Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery is perfect for you! Skip the crowded group tours and hassle of public transportation and travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle with just your party and a guide. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your unforgettable tour.

Overview

This private tour from Yerevan takes you to explore some of Armenia’s most breathtaking sites in a comfortable vehicle with just your party and a guide. The tour includes visits to the medieval monastery of Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pagan Temple of Garni, and the Arch of Charents. Additionally, you will get to try your hand at baking lavash bread, a traditional Armenian bread. The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience for you and your party. Forget about the hassle of public transportation or crowded tour groups, and let yourself be swept away by the stunning landscapes and the beauty of Armenian history.

What’s Included

The tour includes air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup, and drop-off, professional guide service, lunch, and gratuities. You won’t have to worry about anything except enjoying the tour to its fullest.

Meeting and Pickup

Our driver and guide will pick you up and drop you off at your Yerevan hotel. The tour starts at 10:00 AM, so ensure you are ready to start your day trip to the Arch of Charents Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery.

Attractions

During this tour, you will visit three unique attractions:

1. Geghard Monastery

The Geghard Monastery is a medieval monastery that stands as an unsurpassed masterpiece of Armenian architecture. This monastery has been carved out of a mountain, reflecting the fusion of pagan and Christian beliefs during the time of its creation. Its unique setting and architecture have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery contains a number of churches, tombs, and exquisite stone carvings, making it a must-visit attraction in Armenia.

2. Pagan Temple of Garni

The Pagan Temple of Garni is a rare and beautifully preserved temple dedicated to the sun god Mithras. It is the only known Greco-Roman style temple in Armenia, making it a must-see attraction. The temple is surrounded by stunning views of the valley, giving visitors a chance to soak in its beauty while learning about its unique history.

3. Arch of Charents

The Arch of Charents is a tribute to one of Armenia’s greatest poets, Yeghishe Charents. The arch stands tall and majestic against the backdrop of the stunning Armenian landscape. It is a perfect place to stop and snap some photos, capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

What To Expect

During the tour, you can expect to be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide will take you to each attraction, where you will have time to explore and take in the beauty and history of each location. The tour includes a traditional Armenian lunch, allowing you to experience local cuisine while taking a break from the day’s activities.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to ensure that you have a delightful tour experience:

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as there will be a significant amount of walking involved.
2. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat to protect your skin from the sun.
3. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture memories of your tour.
4. Carry water and snacks to stay refreshed and energized throughout the day.

Book Your Tour

Ready to explore Armenia’s history and beauty on this private tour? Book here and experience a comfortable and personalized journey to the Arch of Charents Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery with an expert guide. You won’t regret it!

FAQ About Yerevan

1. What is Yerevan?

Yerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia, located in the southwestern region of the country, on the banks of the Hrazdan River. It has a population of approximately 1.1 million people and is the cultural, economic, and political center of Armenia.

2. What is the history of Yerevan?

Yerevan has a rich history that dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded as the fortress of Erebuni by King Argishti I of Urartu. Over the centuries, the city was ruled by various empires, including the Persians, Arabs, Mongols, Ottomans, and Russians. In 1918, it became the capital of the newly independent Republic of Armenia. After being occupied by Soviet troops in 1920, Yerevan became the capital of the Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic until gaining independence in 1991.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Yerevan?

Yerevan has a wide range of attractions for tourists to enjoy, including:

• The Matenadaran – a museum and research center with a collection of ancient Armenian manuscripts
• The Armenian Genocide Museum and Institute – commemorating the victims of the Armenian Genocide
• The Republic Square – Yerevan’s main central square surrounded by grand government buildings
• Garni Temple – a well-preserved Hellenistic temple dedicated to the Armenian sun god Mihr
• The Cascade Complex – an outdoor stairway featuring art exhibits, sculptures, and fountains

4. What is the transportation system like in Yerevan?

Yerevan has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trolleybuses, trams, and a metro system with two lines. However, due to the city’s compact size, many locals and tourists prefer to walk or use taxis to get around.

5. What is the food like in Yerevan?

Armenian cuisine is known for its flavorful meat and vegetable dishes, bread, and dairy products. In Yerevan, there are many restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Armenian dishes, as well as international cuisine. Some popular dishes to try in Yerevan include khorovats (Armenian barbecue), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lavash (thin flatbread).

6. What is the weather like in Yerevan?

Yerevan has a continental climate with very hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 30°C (86°F), while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is highest in the spring and autumn months.

7. Is Yerevan a safe city?

Yerevan is generally a safe city with low rates of violent crime. However, tourists should be aware of pickpockets and petty thieves in crowded areas and should take standard precautions to protect their valuables.

8. What is the currency used in Yerevan?

The currency used in Yerevan and throughout Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). ATMs are widely available in Yerevan, and most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards.

9. What languages are spoken in Yerevan?

The official language of Armenia is Armenian, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population. However, many people in Yerevan also speak Russian and English, especially in tourist areas.

10. What are the customs and traditions of Yerevan?

Armenians have a strong sense of national pride and hospitality, and visitors to Yerevan can expect to be warmly welcomed by locals. Traditional customs and holidays include:

• New Year’s Day – celebrated with fireworks, parties, and family gatherings
• Armenian Christmas – celebrated on January 6th with church services and family dinners
• Independence Day – celebrated on September 21st with parades and cultural events
• Easter – celebrated with church services, egg-dyeing, and feasting

11. What are some important cultural events in Yerevan?

There are several important cultural events that take place in Yerevan throughout the year, including:

• Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival – held annually in July and featuring films from around the world
• Yerevan Jazz Festival – held annually in October and featuring local and international jazz musicians
• Yerevan Wine Days – held annually in May and featuring local winemakers and wine tastings

12. What are some day trips from Yerevan?

Yerevan is surrounded by scenic countryside and historic sites that make for great day trips, such as:

• Garni and Geghard – historic sites located outside of Yerevan that are known for their ancient temples and monasteries
• Lake Sevan – a large freshwater lake located about 70 kilometers from Yerevan that is popular for swimming and boating
• Mount Ararat – the iconic snow-capped mountain that is visible from Yerevan and a symbol of Armenian national identity

Book Your Tour Now

Yerevan is a vibrant and historic city that offers a wealth of attractions and cultural experiences for visitors. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Yerevan is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Armenian culture and history.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Yerevan

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is a beautiful city located at the foot of the imposing Mount Ararat. It is a fascinating mix of history, culture, food, and architecture. The city boasts of numerous attractions that will keep you engaged and entertained for your entire visit. In this guide, we’ll give you a detailed run-down of how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Yerevan.

1. Explore the City Center

Start your trip in the heart of the city at Republic Square – the most famous landmark in Yerevan. The square is surrounded by grand buildings like the National Gallery, the History Museum, the Central Post Office, and the Marriott Hotel. Take a leisurely stroll through the square, take some photographs, and then move towards Abovyan Street – the main pedestrian street in the city that is always bustling with life. You will find many cafes, bars, and shops on both sides of the street. Here, you can soak up the local culture, do some shopping, and enjoy a coffee or a meal.

2. Visit the Vernissage Flea Market

Located close to the Republic Square, Vernissage is a large open-air market that sells everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to spices and dried fruits. If you’re looking to buy gifts for your friends and family back home, this is the perfect place to purchase unique Armenian souvenirs at reasonable prices. The market is open on weekends from morning until about 4 pm.

3. Tour the Museums

Yerevan is home to some of the best museums in Armenia. The History Museum of Armenia features exhibitions that display the country’s rich history, tradition, and culture. The National Gallery of Armenia holds the largest collection of Armenian art in the world – including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art by famous Armenian artists. Other must-visit museums include the Sergei Parajanov Museum, the Armenian Genocide Museum, the Cafesjian Museum of Art, and the Matenadaran Library-Museum.

4. Visit the Famous Churches

Armenia is known as the first Christian country, and Yerevan has some of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals in the world. The most famous one is the Holy Etchmiadzin – the headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Other notable churches worth visiting include the St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, the Blue Mosque, and the St. Sarkis Cathedral.

5. Take a Food Tour

Armenian cuisine is world-famous – and for good reason. It is a delightful mix of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques. Yerevan has an impressive food scene, and a food tour is an excellent way to experience it. You will get to try traditional Armenian dishes, learn about food culture, and interact with locals.

6. Go on a Wine Tour

Armenian wine is gaining international recognition for its unique taste and quality. The country has a long history of winemaking, and there are numerous vineyards located around Yerevan where you can taste the wine and learn about the production process.

7. Take a Day Trip

Yerevan is located close to many other tourist destinations in Armenia. Take a day trip to Garni to see the temple of the sun god Mihr, or visit Geghard Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved out of a mountain. You can also visit Lake Sevan – the largest lake in Armenia, and Tatev Monastery – home to the world’s longest cable car.

Book Your Tour Now

Yerevan has something for everyone. From museums to churches, flea markets, food tours, and day trips, there is an endless list of things to do and see. Follow this guide, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Yerevan.