Yerevan, Echmiadzin and Zvartnots Full-day Tour

During this full-day tour, you will see Armenia's most influential spiritual places. You will have a fascinating walking tour of Yerevan and visit Armenia's spiritual center, Echmiadzin. On your excursion, you will see St. Hripsime church, St. Echmiadzin, and Zvartnots shrine — Armenia's most important sacred sites!

Highlights: 

• Visit Armenia's most influential spiritual place, Echmiadzin 

• Witness the most important sacred sites and relics

• Stop at the Museum "Treasures of Echmiadzin" and see the Holy Lance (Geghard), which pierced the Christ

Includes: 

• a guide

• air-conditioned vehicle transportation  

• admission tickets

• bottled water and pastries

• insurance

Not included: 

• pick-up and drop-off

You will begin your day with a walking tour of Yerevan to learn more about the country's culture, history, and food. Republic Square with musical fountains is one of the most beautiful sights: from early May until mid-autumn, there is a fantastic singing-dancing fountains performance, complemented by some great music of many genres. Cascade Complex, which offers magnificent views of the city from the summit, is another must-see. It is most enjoyable at night when Yerevan lights up.

Following the walking tour, you will go to Armenia's spiritual center, Echmiadzin, and see St. Hripsime Church, one of the most prominent ecclesiastical structures. The architectural simplicity and loftiness of the church stand out. The tomb of the Christian martyr Virgin Hripsime is located in the church's sacristy. The site has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Later, you will visit St. Gayane, a sister church established in the 7th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Your next destination will be St. Echmiadzin, Armenia's principal church and the world's first Christian church, established in the 4th century. The Catholicos' house and the Theological Academy are located near the Cathedral. From the end of 2018 to the present, renovation work has been carried out. Therefore, visits to Mother Cathedral are currently planned exclusively from the outside. The site has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.

You will also visit the "Treasures of Echmiadzin" Museum in the cathedral's southeast part. The museum currently houses unique holy relics and religious art. Among the many treasures are:

• The Holy Lance (Geghard), which pierced the Christ

• Noah's Ark relics in a shrine made in 1698.

• Other valuable pieces of art.

You will stop at Zvartnots shrine on your way back to Yerevan. This magnificent structure is the outcome of the 7th-century Armenian architects' talent and bravery. It lasted until the 10th century since it was built on numerous columns. The site is on the UNESCO list of Cultural World Heritage Sites.