Things to do in Lori Province

Start your tour at the Akhtala Monastery, a church from the 12th century which contains beautiful frescoes and is surrounded by copper smelting caves as well as a copper smelting factory. The second destination of the tour is the Haghpat Monastery, located in Haghpat Village and is a UNESCO-listed site. It is one of the most beautiful medieval masterpieces in Armenia. Then you can have lunch and try some traditional Armenian food. Following lunch, you'll make 3 stops on your way to visit the second UNESCO Heritage Site, Sanahin.  The first will be a 13th-century bridge, the second for a Debed canyon with astonishing views, and the third for the Mikoyan Brothers' museum, where an original aircraft (MiG 21) will surprise you. Finally, travel back through the border to Tbilisi.

Visit two of Armenia’s ancient monasteries and the town of Alaverdi on this small group tour from Tbilisi. Cross over the border with your experienced guide who will take you through the highlights of Northern Armenia in just 1 day.   Depart at 8:30 AM sharp for a 1.5-hour trip across the Georgian-Armenian boarder. Almost immediately you’ll start to notice changes in the landscape—the fields will become rocky mountains and the scenery takes on a certain apocalyptic touch, due to the many abandoned Soviet mines and factories. Your first stop is the fortified monastery of Akhtala, where you can marvel at the beautifully preserved frescoes and learn about the thrilling history of this Georgian-Armenian creation.   Then, you’ll reach the UNESCO-listed monastery complex of Haghpat, where you’ll learn about the Armenian stone crosses and the mystical poet Sayat-Nova. A local family welcomes you for a traditional Armenian lunch in their house near the Haghpat monastery. After that continue to the monastery of Sanahin, also known as the brother monastery. Arrive back in Tbilisi by around 7:00 PM after a full and fascinating day.

At 07:00 in the morning we will go to the border of Armenia, we will visit after crossing the border Akhpat Monastery Complex which is a medieval UNESCO monument, delicate fish products of Lake Sevan. Sevan Monastery — (Sevanavank) architectural complex on the island of Lake Sevan. Samapsidian cross-domed church of the 9th century. Visit the mother city of Yerevan and see its landmark, the Mother of Armenia, which overlooks the city and its beautiful streets. Cascade with many steps, if you reach its height, see Mount Ararat and its peak, walk through the streets of Yerevan, all in one day...

Explore the gems of Armenia on a day trip from Yerevan to Zarni-Parni Cave Castle Complex and Akhtala fortress. Visit Unesco World Cultural Heritage sites such as Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries with live commentary from an expert guide. Start from the local operator's head office at 09:00 AM and head off to visit Lori province. At your first stop of Haghpat, admire the 10th-century monastery, where the famous ashugh Sayat-Nova lived and created at the end of the 18th century. Next, see the magnificent Zarni-Parni Cave Complex, where, renowned scholar and philosopher Hovhannes Imastaser is said to have lived and worked. Today, it is a historical museum where you can see a number of rare ancient agricultural tools and household items. Then, drive to Akhtala fortress. Constructed on a plateau resembling a peninsula, it is surrounded by deep gorges from 3 sides. Visit Aramyants Castle, one of the jewels of Swiss architecture in Armenia. Last but not least, visit the Sanahin monastery. Witness the skillfulness of 10th-century masters, who made a peculiar architectural decision, preventing the destruction of the complex from earthquakes. At the end of the tour, be taken back to the local operator's head office in Yerevan.

We will depart from Tbilisi at 07:00 in the morning to the border of Armenia, after crossing the border we will visit the Akhpat Monastery. The old monastery is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. And we will leave for the capital Yerevan, on the way we will stop at a fast food place where you can taste traditional and vegetarian dishes, after that you will visit the capital of Armenia Yerevan, in Yerevan you will see the monument of the Mother of Armenia and discover Mount Ararat. Walk down the stairs from top to bottom on the cascade and take a lot of unforgettable pictures, as well as visit the Genocide Museum at the Republic Square. and take a walk in the center of the capital city of Yerevan. And on the way back visit Sevan Lake, then we will continue to Sevan Lake, where we will visit the best restaurant spread over a huge area, here we will have the opportunity to taste the delicious products of Sevan Lake. Views Sevanavanki is a monastery on the Sevan Peninsula, the existing temples were built at the end of the 9th century. The patron saint of the monastery, the complex consists of the churches of St. Karapet and St. Apostles built in the 9th century. Once the monastery served as an outpost of the castle. And go back to Tbilisi...

Embark on a captivating day trip through the cultural treasures of northern Armenia. Begin your adventure at Akhtala, a charming village known for its 10th-century fortress and beautiful frescoes. Continue to the Haghpat Monastery Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning medieval Armenian architecture and spiritual serenity. Recharge with a delicious lunch stop in Haghpat, savoring local flavors in a scenic setting. Afterward, pass through Alaverdi, a historic mining town nestled in the Debed River gorge, offering a glimpse into Armenia’s Soviet-era heritage. Next, dive into innovation at the Mikoyan Brothers Museum, where the story of the famed aircraft designers—creators of the MiG fighter jets—comes to life. Conclude your tour at the Sanahin Monastery Complex, another UNESCO gem, rich with intricate carvings and centuries-old religious tradition.

Welcome to the Northern Armenia Highlights Tour, the ultimate way to explore the rich culture and history of Armenia. This one-day tour from Tbilisi, Georgia, takes you on a thrilling journey across the border, where you'll discover the natural beauty of Armenia and its architectural gems. Embark on a comfortable ride from Tbilisi to the Georgian-Armenian border and experience crossing the border between the two countries. After crossing the border we will make a short stop at a local shop to exchange money and buy some local products, so you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture. Our first stop is the breathtaking Akhtala Monastery, a 10th-century architectural masterpiece that boasts intricate frescoes and medieval sculptures. Next, we'll visit the UNESCO-listed Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, two of the most stunning examples of Armenian medieval architecture. Take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and marvel at the intricate carvings and unique architectural details of these masterpieces. Between exploring the monasteries, we'll stop for lunch at a local Armenian restaurant, where you'll have the chance to taste delicious Armenian cuisine and learn more about the local customs and traditions. The tour also includes a stop at the Mikoyan Brothers Museum, where you'll have the chance to see and take photos with a real MIG-21. Throughout the tour, our expert guide will provide you with insights and interesting facts about the history, culture, and architecture of Armenia, making your journey even more enjoyable and enlightening. At the end of the tour, we'll drop you off at your hotel or a central location in Tbilisi. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the wonders of Armenia and book your tour today!

A Cultural Journey to Northern Armenia: History, Heritage & Hidden Gems Join us on a captivating one-day adventure from Georgia to Northern Armenia — a land where every stone tells a story. This unforgettable journey blends powerful history, sacred architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic Armenian flavors. Mother of Nine Sons Monument Our first stop is a deeply moving memorial dedicated to a Georgian mother who lost all nine of her sons in the war with Persia. Her strength, grief, and sacrifice are immortalized in this powerful statue — a symbol of national pride and sorrow. Akhtala Monastery Travel back to the 12th century as we visit the stunning Akhtala Monastery. Famed for its vibrant frescoes and surrounded by dramatic fortress walls and ancient copper mines, this site offers a unique blend of spiritual and industrial history. Haghpat Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Perched above the Debed Canyon, Haghpat Monastery is one of Armenia’s most treasured landmarks. Wander through its serene courtyards, marvel at its stone artistry, and breathe in the peaceful energy of this masterpiece of medieval architecture. Traditional Armenian Lunch In the village of Haghpat, we’ll pause to enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch. Delight in homemade dolma, freshly grilled kebabs, lavash, and a variety of local appetizers, served with legendary Armenian hospitality. On the Way to Sanahin: Three Fascinating Stops • A 13th-century stone bridge with breathtaking views • The dramatic Debed Canyon and its natural beauty • The Mikoyan Brothers Museum – featuring a real MiG-21 fighter jet and insights into Soviet aviation history Sanahin Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Our final stop is Sanahin Monastery — a quiet sanctuary of wisdom and faith. Explore its ancient halls, intricate carvings, and peaceful setting as we wrap up our day in Armenia’s spiritual heart.

Discover the cultural and spiritual treasures of Northern Armenia on this full-day tour from Tbilisi. Cross the border into a land rich in history and natural beauty, where every stop tells a powerful story. Begin with a visit to the “Mother of Nine Sons” monument — a moving tribute to a mother who lost all her sons during the war with Persia. Then step into the 12th century at Akhtala Monastery, known for its vivid frescoes and fortress-like setting. Continue to the stunning Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled above the Debed Gorge. Here, you'll explore centuries-old halls and take in panoramic views of Armenia’s rugged landscapes. Enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch in the peaceful village of Haghpat, featuring local dishes like dolma, fresh bread, and juicy kebabs. On the way to Sanahin, we’ll stop at a medieval stone bridge, admire the dramatic Debed Canyon, and visit the Mikoyan Brothers Museum — home to a real Soviet MiG-21 fighter jet. Finally, reach Sanahin Monastery, another UNESCO treasure, where ancient architecture meets deep spiritual heritage. This day trip offers a unique chance to experience the heart of Armenia — from sacred sites and stunning nature to unforgettable stories and warm local hospitality.

“Mother of Nine Sons” Monument Our first stop is a powerful and emotional memorial in Georgia, dedicated to a mother who lost all nine of her sons during the war with Persia. You'll learn her heartbreaking story, how she responded to the devastating news, and why this monument was erected in her honor. Akhtala Monastery Next, we visit the 12th-century Akhtala Church, known for its stunning frescoes and unique surroundings — including ancient copper smelting sites and fortress walls that still echo the region's industrial past. Haghpat Monastery Set in the picturesque village of Haghpat, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture, offering breathtaking views and deep spiritual history. Traditional Lunch We'll take a break in Haghpat to enjoy authentic Armenian cuisine — savor dishes like dolma, juicy kebabs, and a variety of traditional appetizers. Sanahin Monastery and Surroundings On the way to Sanahin, enjoy three fascinating stops: a 13th-century stone bridge, the dramatic Debed Canyon, and the Mikoyan Brothers Museum, home to an actual MiG-21 fighter jet. Our final destination is the UNESCO-listed Sanahin Monastery, another gem of Armenian architecture and spirituality. Throughout the journey, we’ll dive into the intertwined histories of Armenia and Georgia, explore the unique flavors of Armenian cuisine, and experience the cultural richness of two ancient nations.