Yerevan

Arriving in Yerevan, a private driver will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to our hotel in the city center. The remainder of the day will be yours to rest and recover from jet lag and meet your fellow travelers before meeting for our welcome dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants.

Included Meals: Dinner

Yerevan

We begin our day with a morning walk through this beautiful, relaxed city. We'll visit many of the highlights while we roam the neighborhoods, including Republic Square and the Cascade Complex (with its views over the city). We'll walk to the wonderful Vernissage market where local goods and crafts of all kinds are sold in this large, centrally-located park. After lunch, we'll venture to the outskirts of town and visit the impressive 7th-century ruins of the Zvartnots cathedral, a UNESCO heritage site. We'll then visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial, an intense but necessary stop.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Yerevan / Goris

Today's drive will take us through the Armenian countryside, passing numerous historic villages. We'll reach the Areni wine region where we'll partake in some wine tasting at one of the most well-known Armenian wineries.

We'll stop at Khor Virap, an ancient monastery with sweeping views of magnificent Mount Ararat, before visiting the fascinating Areni cave where the earliest known shoe, skirt, winery and human brain have been found by archeologists, dating back 3900 years!

We'll also see the 13th century Noravank Monastery set among the cliffs and mountains near the town of Yeghegnadzor. From there, we'll continue to the town of Goris where we'll settle into our cozy guesthouse.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Goris

In the morning, we'll take a cable car up to visit the stunning 9th-century Tatev Monastery spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our day will continue with a visit to the nearby Devil's Bridge and mineral springs where you may take a quick dip in the warm mineral pools.

In the afternoon, we'll walk through Goris, visiting the age-old walls and the Zorats Karer time-honored observatory at sunset.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Goris / Dilijan

Departing Goris, our destination will be the spa town of Dilijan, known as the Switzerland of Armenia due to its truly picturesque surroundings and quaint feel. Along the way we'll stop for a picnic lunch at Orbelian's Caravanserai, dating back to the 1300s and sitting at an altitude of 2400 meters. After lunch in this unique setting, we'll visit Khachkar cemetery and Sevanavank monastery. We'll then arrive in Dilijan in the afternoon and check into our local homestay.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dilijan

This will be a relaxed day to enjoy this gorgeous, historic town, known for its spas and local crafts. Options for the day include a full spa experience, a hike through the forests of the nearby national park, visiting the Geological Museum or Goshavank Monastery outside of town. In the evening, we'll join our homestay hosts for a wonderful family dining experience!

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Dilijan / Tbilisi

Today we cross from Armenia to Georgia! The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours, including immigration, a lunch break and stopping along the way to admire the various villages and scenic spots that we'll pass through. Arriving in Georgia's capital city by the middle of the afternoon, we'll check into our hotel and go for a nice walk along the main boulevard to stretch our legs. Our first dinner in Georgia will consist of the country's most famous dishes...and of course its famous wine!

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tbilisi

We'll start our day with a tour of Tbilisi, Georgia's vibrant capital. We'll stroll through the old city, exploring its rich history and culture, taking in the sights of the ancient, underground bathhouses, wandering through charming neighborhoods, and admiring the scenic river area. After our tour, we'll settle down for a delicious lunch in one of the best local restaurants in town. After lunch, you'll have free time to explore Tbilisi at your own pace, checking out some local craft shops or just relaxing in one of the city’s cozy cafes. As the evening sets in, we’ll have the option to experience Tbilisi’s lively nightlife, whether it's enjoying a live music performance, exploring local bars, or simply taking a leisurely walk through the city's illuminated streets.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tbilisi / Sighnaghi / Telavi

After breakfast in Tbilisi, we'll make our way to Kakheti, a region famed for its vineyards and wine-making. First stop is Sighnaghi, a picturesque town with sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. We'll enjoy a stroll down its inviting cobblestone streets and take in the historic architecture. We'll then move on to a renowned winery for a delightful Georgian lunch, complemented by a wine tasting that showcases the local viticulture. In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Telavi, the administrative and historic center of the region. Telavi is known for its scenic beauty, historic churches, and well-preserved fortresses. Upon arrival, we'll embark on an orientation walk acquainted ourselves with this charming town's culture and history. The rest of the evening will be yours to relax or continue exploring town.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Telavi / Stepantsminda

Today's 5-hour journey takes us up into the Caucasus Mountains. As we travel, we'll wind through a series of charming Georgian villages, each one offering a glimpse into a peaceful, local, authentic way of life. For lunch, we'll stop in a village, where food will be paired with the warm welcome we'll receive. Upon arrival in Stepantsminda, a quaint town nestled under Mount Kazbek, we'll settle into our hotel. We'll set out on a laid-back walking tour to explore the town, immerse ourselves in the stunning mountain views, and soak up its tranquil atmosphere. The day concludes with a leisurely dinner back at our hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stepantsminda

We'll kick off our day with a guided tour of the surrounding villages. As we meander through, you'll witness local artisans immersed in their crafts, from intricate woodwork and elegant pottery to the weaving of traditional textiles. Following our exploration, we'll dive into a hands-on craft workshop, offering a unique chance to experience these age-old techniques firsthand. The rest of the afternoon will be yours to savor in your own way. Whether you choose to soak up the splendid mountain views, indulge in the tranquility of the nearby hot springs, or enjoy some downtime at the hotel, our tour leader will be on hand to assist.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Stepantsminda / Mtshketa / Tbilisi

After breakfast in Stepantsminda, we’ll set off on a 2-hour drive to Mtskheta, a city famed for its deep historical roots and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Mtskheta, our tour will take us to the awe-inspiring Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, celebrated for its beautiful architecture and significant past, and the Jvari Monastery, situated on a hill with breathtaking views of where the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet. We'll also take a leisurely stroll through the city's time-honored streets, soaking up the rich history at every turn. Following a classic Georgian lunch, we’ll continue on a 1-hour drive back to Tbilisi. Our day will conclude with a memorable farewell dinner at one of Tbilisi’s best restaurants.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tbilisi

You will be picked up for your airport transfer based on the time of your departing flight.