CHRISTMAS IN ARMENIA 5D4N

Breakfast.

Tour starts at 10:00

Garni Temple 

Perched dramatically above the Azat River Gorge, Garni Temple is Armenia’s only surviving pagan monument from the pre‑Christian era. Built in the 1st century, its striking Greco‑Roman colonnades and mountain backdrop make it a rare jewel of classical architecture in the Caucasus.

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Discover the Temple of the Sun of Garni, one of the most ancient structures on Armenian territory (1st century AD), built in the year of 76 BCE by King Trdat I, and served as a summer residence of Armenian kings. Garni temple is the only monument preserved in the pagan and Hellenistic period in Armenia, dedicated to the sun god Mihr.

Enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage.

Geghard Monastery 

Carved partly into the cliffs of the Azat Valley, Geghard Monastery embodies Armenia’s spiritual depth. Founded in the 4th century by Gregory the Illuminator, it became renowned for housing the Holy Lance relic, believed to have pierced Christ’s side. Its rock‑hewn chapels and serene setting create a timeless atmosphere of faith and history.

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Continue to Geghard Monastery (7th – 12th Century monument) is one of the greatest medieval architectural structures in Armenia. Geghard is completely hollowed out in a cave, it is also called a “cave monastery”.  The name of the monastery complex Geghard (spear) comes from the Langin’n spear, which pierced the body of Jesus Christ on the cross.

The monastery complex Geghard is included in UNESCO World Heritage List.

Together, these sites offer a journey from Armenia’s ancient pagan past to its early Christian heritage — a seamless blend of culture, architecture, and spirituality.

Overnight at the hotel.

Saint Charbel Statue (en route to Sevan): A serene roadside landmark honoring Saint Charbel, offering travelers a moment of reflection and a scenic pause before reaching the highlands.

Tsakhkadzor: Known as Armenia’s premier ski resort town, Tsakhkadzor enchants visitors with alpine scenery. Ride the cable car up Mount Teghenis for sweeping views of forests and valleys, a highlight in every season.

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o   Tsakhkadzor, meaning Valley of Flowers, is Armenia’s premier mountain resort, nestled on the eastern slopes of Mt. Tsaghkuniats. Surrounded by virginal woods and alpine meadows, it offers year‑round beauty: lush greenery in summer and a snowy wonderland in winter. The town is famed for its cable car ride up Mount Teghenis, where sweeping views of forests and valleys unfold in every season.

o   Its ski resort features 27 km of slopes and 6 modern lifts, with elevations ranging from 1,966 to 2,819 meters.

o   Kecharis Monastery is a remarkable medieval complex founded in the 11th century. It comprises four (04) churches and the ruins of the mausoleum of Grigorius Pahlavuni, once a prominent noble. The monastery served as a spiritual and cultural center, and today its stone walls and domes stand as a testament to Armenia’s medieval architecture and faith.

Dilijan, the “Switzerland of Armenia” 

Nestled in lush forests, Dilijan is famed for its alpine climate and artistic soul. The Old Town features restored traditional houses, cobbled streets, and artisan workshops. It’s a place where culture and nature blend seamlessly.

Haghartsin Monastery 

Hidden deep in Dilijan’s wooded hills, Haghartsin Monastery dates back to the 10th–13th centuries. Its stone carvings, domed churches, and tranquil courtyards evoke centuries of devotion. Surrounded by greenery, it feels like a retreat into timeless spirituality.

After a day of mountain vistas, lakeside serenity, return to Yerevan. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning Departure to Echmiadzin (20 km from Yerevan).

Begin the day with a short drive to Armenia’s spiritual heart.

St. Hripsime Church (7th century): One of Armenia’s most revered landmarks and considered among the “Seven Wonders of Armenia.” Built over the tomb of the martyr Hripsime, its austere stone architecture and harmonious proportions embody early Christian design.

Mother Cathedral of Holy Echmiadzin: The spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, founded in the 4th century after Armenia adopted Christianity as a state religion.

The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains the seat of the Catholicos.

St. Gayane Church (7th century): Dedicated to another early Christian martyr, this church is admired for its elegant domes and serene atmosphere.

Museum of Treasures: Home to sacred relics, manuscripts, and liturgical artifacts, including the Holy Lance believed to have pierced Christ’s side.

Return Journey with Stop at Zvartnots Temple.

Zvartnots Cathedral (7th century): Known as the “Temple of the Vigilant Angels,” Zvartnots is a masterpiece of early medieval Armenian architecture. Though in ruins, its soaring columns and circular design reveal the grandeur of its past. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is often called the “pearl” of 7th‑century architecture.

Visit to Vernisage Market 

Back in Yerevan, explore Vernisage, the city’s vibrant open‑air market. Here, artisans display handmade crafts, jewelry, carpets, woodwork, and traditional souvenirs — the perfect place to find authentic keepsakes.

Conclude the day with rest in the capital after a journey through Armenia’s spiritual and cultural treasures.

Overnight at the hotel.