Khor Virap, Noravank, Jermuk, Areni
Day trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, Jermuk, and Areni with monasteries, mountain views, mineral waters, a ropeway ride, and winemaking heritage.
About this tour
Explore Armenia’s historic monasteries, mountain landscapes, and winemaking traditions on a day trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, Jermuk, and Areni.
Begin at Khor Virap Monastery, where you can enjoy views of Mount Ararat in clear weather. Continue to Noravank, set among striking red cliffs, to discover its distinctive medieval architecture.
In Jermuk, visit the picturesque waterfall and mineral water gallery, where you can sample the town’s famous mineral waters. Enjoy a scenic ropeway ride for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Complete your journey in Areni, a village known for its winemaking heritage.
Please note: The Jermuk ropeway does not operate on Tuesdays. During winter, access to Jermuk Waterfall may be restricted for safety reasons due to icy or slippery conditions.
Itinerary
1 08:45 Khor Virap Monastery
Khor Virap Monastery is one of Armenia’s most significant pilgrimage sites, offering spectacular views of Mount Ararat in clear weather. According to Armenian tradition, Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 13 years before helping establish Christianity as the country’s state religion in the early fourth century. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and descend into the underground chamber traditionally associated with his imprisonment.
2 10:50 Noravank Monastery
Noravank Monastery stands in a scenic gorge surrounded by towering red cliffs. This medieval complex is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings and distinctive Armenian architecture. Its most striking building is the two-storey Church of Surb Astvatsatsin, featuring narrow exterior steps leading to the upper entrance. Explore the monastery grounds and admire the harmonious blend of historic architecture and dramatic natural scenery.
3 12:56 Meal Stop
Enjoy a break for lunch with time to relax and try Armenian dishes before continuing the tour. The cost of lunch is not included in the tour price.
4 14:31 Jermuk Ropeway
The cable car is about 1 km long and rises to an altitude of 2000 meters, offering beautiful views of the city's nature, mountain landscapes and forests. The cable car is especially popular among tourists, both in winter for skiing enthusiasts and in summer to enjoy the fresh mountain air and views.
- Jermuk Ropeway fee (1,500 AMD)
5 15:21 Jermuk Waterfall and Arch of Dreams
Discover Jermuk Waterfall, where water flows down a rocky slope in delicate streams, earning it the nickname “Mermaid’s Hair.” Continue to the Arch of Dreams, a charming stop where you can make a wish and capture memorable photos amid Jermuk’s natural scenery.
Please note: During winter, access to Jermuk Waterfall may be restricted for safety reasons due to icy or slippery conditions.
6 16:11 Jermuk Town
Jermuk is a mountain spa town known for its mineral springs and peaceful surroundings. During your visit, stroll through the town and stop at the Mineral Water Gallery, where you can sample mineral water served at different temperatures. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic views as you discover one of Armenia’s best-known spa destinations.
7 19:01 Areni Wine Factory
Visit Areni Wine Factory to discover the winemaking traditions of one of Armenia’s best-known wine regions. Learn about local grape varieties, including the native Areni grape, and how they are transformed into wine. Enjoy a wine tasting and explore the distinctive flavours that reflect the region’s climate, soil, and winemaking heritage.
What’s included
- Guide service (if there are foreign participants, the tour may be conducted in two languages)
- Transport
- Wine Tasting
- Bottled water
- Meal
- Jermuk Ropeway - 2000 AMD
Pickup & Important information
FAQ
On which days does this tour run?
This tour runs every day. It is a one-day group tour.
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at 08:00 and ends at 20:00. It is a 1-day tour without an overnight stay.
How early should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time. Since seats are not pre-assigned, coming a bit earlier is a good idea.
If I’m late, will the group wait for me?
If you are late the company does not wait. If possible, you may catch up to the tour by your own means.
What kind of transport is used for the tour?
The tour runs on a comfortable minivan or bus depending on group size.
Is the transport heated in winter?
Yes, the transport is fully heated in winter.
Is there Wi-Fi in the vehicle?
There is usually no Wi-Fi in the transport, but mobile internet works on most of the route.
Can I reserve or choose my seat in advance?
Seats are not pre-assigned. We recommend arriving a bit early to choose a convenient spot.
What languages does the guide speak?
Tours are conducted in Armenian, Russian and English. If there are non-local guests in the group, the guide can speak two languages.
Are the guides local, and do they explain the history of the places?
Yes, our guides are local experts. They are familiar with the history, culture and the sites being visited.
How much does this tour cost for locals and for foreigners?
The price is 7000 AMD (Armenian dram) for one local adult and 11000 AMD (Armenian dram) for one foreign adult.
Is there a discount for children?
For day tours, children 0-3 years are free, ages 3-6 get a 50% discount, and ages 7+ pay full price.
Have questions?