tbilisi to yerevan day tour

Wander-Lush

Armenia Day Trip from Tbilisi: Is It Worth It?

‘Is it worth doing an Armenia day trip from Tbilisi?’ This is a question I get asked all the time.

Many visitors to the South Caucasus will dedicate time to all three countries, Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan .

But for those who are on a tight schedule, popping into Armenia for a few hours to get another stamp in your passport is tempting, especially since the border is under two hours by road from Tbilisi .

Having previously visited from inside the country, I know just how special the northern part of Armenia is. But I also know it’s a long way to travel in just one day. 

When I was recently given the opportunity to join a day trip to Armenia , I thought I should revisit this part of the country ‘from the other side’ and find out for myself whether or not it’s worth the time and expense.

A big thank-you to Gamarjoba Georgia Tours for hosting me on their ‘One Day Trip to Armenia from Tbilisi’. As always, all opinions, recommendations and criticisms are 100% my own.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

In a hurry?

If you don’t have time to read this whole guide, here are 4 different options for seeing the best of Northern Armenia from Tbilisi.

Transport from Tbilisi:

• Day Trip to Northern Armenia (Haghpat & Sanahin Monasteries plus Alaverdi). The most popular choice, organised daily by Gamarjoba Georgia Tours (this is the same tour I describe in this guide). Check prices here on Viator ).
• Alternative Day Trip to Dilijan & Lake Sevan. Prefer nature over monasteries? Visit Armenia’s ‘Little Switzerland’ and the beautiful Sevan Lake on this private tour with Friendly.ge. Book here through Viator or book direct through the website – use the code WANDERLUSH for 10% off.
• One-way Transfer from Tbilisi to Yerevan with GoTrip. Travel in comfort with your own private driver and do all your Northern Armenia sightseeing along the way. See an example itinerary I created GoTrip (from 160 USD/car).
• Multi-day Armenia tour from Tbilisi. Enjoy 2 full days of sightseeing in Armenia with transfers to and from Tbilisi. Check prices here on Viator .

What can you see on an Armenia day trip from Tbilisi?

The Armenian border (Bagratashen-Sadakhlo checkpoint) is around 1.5 hours’ drive south of Tbilisi. Taking distances and road conditions into account, a single day only gives you enough time to see the far-northern part of Armenia, the Lori region and Debed river canyon.

I’ve travelled around most of Armenia and consider this to be one of the country’s most magical landscapes. It’s certainly enough of a visual contrast to make you feel like you’ve left Georgia and entered into a different country.

And with the number of Ladas on the road and the old Soviet infrastructure sprinkled around, perhaps even a different era!

This area is a combination of badlands-like rock formations, craggy hills and flat plateaus punctuated with the ruins of old copper smelting factories, small working mines, tiny villages – and of course some stunning Armenian churches .

Yes, monasteries are definitely the focus of this day trip. If you’re not interested in history or religion, you might want to consider one of the many alternatives available from Tbilisi .

There is a trio of Armenian monastic complexes close to the Georgian border: The twin UNESCO World Heritage Listed monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin , and Akhtala Monastery further north. While not as popular as the other UNESCO monasteries near Yerevan (Geghard, for example), all three are very important sacred sites.

Additional stops at the Mikoyan Brothers Museum , Sanahin Bridge , Alaverdi town and at a traditional Armenian restaurant for lunch break-up the itinerary so you don’t get monastery fatigue.

→ Check prices & availability for the same tour I did: One Day Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi .

Important things to consider before you book

Driving time: The first thing to know is that this day trip does involve quite a lot of driving. The roads in this part of Armenia are a bit rough (not much has changed since my last visit in 2019) with plenty of potholes, which makes it slow going at some points.

After the 1.5 hour drive to the border, it takes around 45 km or 60 minutes to reach the farthest monastery. Therefore you’re looking at a total of 4-5 hours in the car.

(This actually isn’t too bad when you consider other popular day trips such as Kazbegi involve 6 hours of driving at a minimum.)

Personally I found the distance quite comfortable – especially when you have a guide who will keep you occupied talking on the way down and let you rest on the way back!

Visas & immigration: Any day trip that involves crossing an international border requires some pre-planning. Whichever tour agency you go with, they will give you all the required information – but at the end of the day, it’s your responsibility to make sure you have your documents in order. Many nationalities still require a tourist visa for Armenia (Armenia does not consider residency when granting visa-free entry, only nationality).

Border crossing process: Bagratashen-Sadakhlo is the most popular and busiest border control point between Georgia and Armenia. The immigration process is quite straightforward and your guide will chaperone you through. When you arrive at the border, you’ll disembark the car and exit Georgia by foot. You then get back in the car and drive across the river to the Armenian checkpoint, where you again cross by foot (this time you have to take your luggage with you). The driver will clear customs with the car then pick you up on the other side, ready to drive into Armenia.

Currency exchange: Armenia uses a different currency to Georgia – dram (AMD). The monasteries are free to visit but since most tours don’t include lunch, you’ll need a small amount of cash. You should budget around 3000 AMD for lunch plus a few thousand extra dram for any souvenirs. I suggest exchanging 30-50 GEL (I couldn’t see a meaningful difference between exchanging lari, Euro and USD when I travelled). After the border crossing, the tour stops at a supermarket/currency exchange desk where you can buy dram.

Mobile & internet: Remember your Georgian sim card won’t work in Armenia unless you activate roaming before you leave. This is very easy to do on Magti: just open up the app and purchase a roaming package (I used the 25 MB option for 5 GEL when I travelled), then turn roaming on when you enter Armenia. If you don’t have a sim or you don’t want to bother with roaming, there is WIFI available at the restaurant where you stop for lunch.

My Armenia day trip experience with Gamarjoba Georgia Tours

→ Check prices & availability for this tour: One Day Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi .

Because of the border crossing procedures and the logistics involved with visiting another county, you really want to do this day trip with a well-organised company. I was very impressed with Gamarjoba Georgia Tours – from the moment my reservation was locked in I was in contact with one of their office staff, Lana, via Whatsapp.

The day before the tour Lana sent me a detailed PDF with a break-down of our schedule for the day. Without going into too much detail, Gamarjoba has a number of systems in place to make sure every tour runs smoothly and that every customer is satisfied.

Lana was in touch a few times during the tour to get my feedback and ask if I needed anything. In case you don’t feel comfortable talking directly to your guide, there is always someone else you can communicate with.

My guide for Armenia was Tamuna. Most Gamarjoba guides are young students or recent graduates who have a background in international relations, politics or law. I’ve attended one of their training sessions and know how much work they put into cultivating a professional, friendly work culture.

Tamuna definitely typifies this: She gave us information and answered questions consistently throughout the day, never sitting back and leaving us to our own devices (and the only time she used her phone was to take photos for the group, which Lana sent us at the end of the day).

Tamuna gave us an in-depth explanation at all the stops and shared some really terrific information beyond just the Wikipedia script. She also got us behind the scenes access to some ‘secret’ places, including the library at Sanahin Monastery, where the oldest surviving book in Armenian language was found.

After showing us the library, the monastery caretaker made a point of thanking Tamuna for explaining things to our group in such detail – most other guides, she said, ask her to unlock the door then just walk through without saying a word.

The itinerary allows for about an hour at each monastery. This might sound like a lot of time but the complexes are so big, you really do need every minute. At each stop we had about 20 minutes of free time at the end to walk around, soak up the details and take more photos.

As well as the three monasteries, we also stopped at the Mikoyan Brothers Museum to see the MiG plane, at Sanahin bridge, and for views of the copper factory and Alaverdi town. We ate lunch together with Tamuna and our driver, Zaza, at a local restaurant. Lunch is not included but prices at the restaurant they have chosen are very fair – and the food is super tasty.

As you might already know, road safety is one of my biggest priorities in Georgia. Unfortunately not all tour companies have the best track record when it comes to safe driving. As a larger company, Gamarjoba Georgia has a fleet of new vehicles and a team of professional, trained drivers who are held to high standards.

Normally the Armenia day trip is done with a minivan or car depending on the group size. We had a larger group, so we travelled by minibus.

Final words: Is it worth it to do a day trip from Tbilisi to Armenia?

Yes, as long as you do it right. And as long as you come in with realistic expectations.

As I mentioned earlier, the landscape is quite a contrast and there are plenty of little things you’ll notice in Armenia that set it apart from its neighbour.

But I’ll be honest here: I think it’s impossible to get a good feel for Armenia in such a short period of time, covering such a small part of the country.

It’s also important to remember that Lori and the border regions have been part of both Armenia and Georgia at various points, so there is naturally a lot of overlap in the history and style of architecture. That’s not necessarily a con – it can be something to embrace.

If you’re not so keen on monasteries and you would prefer to see nature, this alternative day trip from Tbilisi to Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park is definitely worth considering. It is organised by Friendly.ge, another of my favourite tour companies in Georgia.

I think a day trip to Armenia from Tbilisi is a great opportunity to learn about Georgia’s and Armenia’s shared history, and to observe the differences between the two nations’ Orthodox and Apostolic traditions.

Given how important a role religion plays in culture and society in this part of the world, it’s a great segue into broader discussions about the region’s history and politics.

For this reason having a knowledgeable, open, attentive guide makes all the difference. Fascinating as the monasteries and surrounding landscapes are, you really want someone who will expand the conversation beyond just what you see in front of you. If you travel with Tamuna or another Gamarjoba guide, I think you’ll be in very good hands.

Check prices and availability for Gamarjoba Georgia’s Full Day Trip to Armenia here on Viator or here on Get Your Guide .

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

Armenia Travel Guide

Discover insider tips, itinerary inspiration, and all the best things to see, do and experience in Armenia!

Armenia Essentials

My favourite resources and tools for planning a trip to Armenia.

Find affordable flights to Armenia

Yerevan Airport transfer

Save on museums & transport

Hire a car in Armenia

Get an e-visa for Armenia

Find the perfect accommodation

Book city tours & day trips

Order the latest Lonely Planet

More from Armenia

• The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary
• Things to do in Yerevan , 25 must-sees and alternative spots
• Where to find authentic and meaningful Armenian souvenirs in Yerevan
• Don’t miss the GUM Market , Yerevan’s colourful produce hall
• Tips for being a responsible tourist in Armenia
• The best day trip from Yerevan
• Guide to Gyumri , Armenia’s second city
• Guide to visiting the UNESCO monasteries, Haghpat and Sanahin
• How to travel between Armenia and Georgia by overnight train
• 12 things you should know before travelling to the Caucasus

Hi Emily, Planning a trip to the region and your site is my go-to for the planning of the trip. I have an Indian Passport with a valid US Visa. As per the guidelines, I have Visa free entry to Georgia and Armenia. If I plan to do a day trip to Armenia, do you think I should get a multiple entry e-visa done for Georgia and an e-visa done for Armenia? Or it will be okay to show my US Visa at the border to cross over to Armenia and be back to Georgia again?

Thanks Sasha

Hi Sasha, unfortunately I can’t give visa advice. But I can recommend that if you require a visa, you get an evisa to save time at the border. I suggest contacting your nearest embassy/consulate for specific advice.

Thanks for understanding and happy travels in Georgia and Armenia!

Thanks for a insightful post. I just wanted to know if I can get a visa on arrival in Armenia if I am travelling from Georgia. I am an Indian National with GCC (Qatar) Residency Permit. In Georgia, it is a visa on arrival.

Thanks Sahil

Hi Sahil – you can get a VOA for Armenia, yes, as long as you are eligible. The desks are open and working. Have a safe and fun trip!

Hi Emily, thank you for the detailed post! This is so helpful! Just wondering, do the monasteries include a lot of hiking/climbing up a lot of steep stairs? Cuz I’m thinking of taking my mom on this day trip. Thanks a lot!

Hi Remy! Not really, no – it’s not a physically demanding tour at all. There are a few stairs and walking paths but nothing strenuous. I’m not sure when you’re planning to visit but it was quite slippery in the snow, just so you’re aware. Enjoy!

hi Emily! thanks a lot for your blog post. It is very informative

I read that visa on arrival is not available at the land border when you wrote this article. Do you by any chance now if it is now available in 2023? I’m considering to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan by car. Thanks a lot in advance!

happy traveling

Hi Debs – apologies for the outdated information. Yes, visa on arrival for Armenia was reinstalled last year. I have updated the article.

Thanks and happy travels!

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Tbilisi Yerevan Trip – 2 Days

Tour overview, tour details.

If you’re visiting Tbilisi and would like to visit Yerevan in a short trip. This 2 Day Tbilisi Yerevan Tour is For you! This trip between the capitals of Georgia and Armenia starts and ends in Tbilisi. For 2 Days we will show you around the beautiful country of Armenia visiting the must see sights in a very short period of time.

Tbilisi - Sadakhlo - Akhtala - Haghpat - Sanahin - Yerevan

Your tour will begin in Tbilisi – We will pick you up from your preferred address and start are 2 Day trip by heading straight to the Armenian Border (Sadakhlo).

Armenia welcomes people with an open heart, however you still might want to check if need a visa to Visit. EU Countries countries & USA are not required to have a visa (As of 11/10/2018). Most of the UAE Residents are entitled to a visa on arrival which costs 3000 Dram (About 7 USD). You can check the visa requirements on the official website of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Armenia – :  https://www.mfa.am/en/visa/

Once we cross the Border We will start to explore the Northern Part of Armenia – Lori Region. Our first stop of the day will be the Akhtala Fortress from the 11th Century. You’ll have a chance to take a walk inside the fortress and look at the famous murals of the Astvatsatsin Church.

Next we’ll continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Sights of Haghpat and Sanahin Monastery Complexes, both of which are dated back to the 10th century! Both of them were huge religious and educational centers of Armenia and are responsible for preserving Armenian Culture.

After these stops, we can make an optional stop at one of the roadside restaurants that serve delicious food and enjoy the wonders of the Armenian cuisine.

To finalize the day, we will proceed to drive to Yerevan where you’ll enjoy an evening on your own exploring the heart of this country. This will conclude the first day of the Tbilisi Yerevan Tour.

Yerevan streets are very beautiful in the evening times. Recommended spots to visit: The Cascade Complex & Surrounding areas.

Yerevan – Khor Virap – Garni Temple – Sevan Lake – Sevanavank – Sadakhlo – Tbilisi

On the next day, after you enjoy your breakfast, we will start the day by heading to the iconic Khor Virap Monastery & the Mount Ararat. We will stop at this complex to take a look at the cradle of Christianity in Armenia – Gregor Illuminator was once a captive here.

Next we will visit the ancient Garni Temple and the surrounding complex with the Roman baths. This Pagan temple was built here in the 1st century AD! Before becoming a Christian country in 301 AD, Armenia used to be mostly a pagan country. Garni Temple used to be one of the centers of Armenian Pagan Worshipers.

After the temple, we will proceed to visit the quintessential sight of Armenia – The Sevan Lake & Sevanavank. Sevan lake is the biggest lake in Armenia and is known for it’s pristine beauty. People from all over Armenia and the world come here to enjoy this beautiful resort year-round. The Sevan lake is known for its Salmon which you’ll later have a chance to taste.

As for the Sevanavank Monastery, it is dated back to the 10th century and used to be a “monk prison” – back in the day, this monastery was located on an island and the monks that had sinned would be sent to this monastery as a punishment. Today, it’s located on a peninsula and offers great views of the Sevan Lake and Surroundings.

After visiting the Sevan Lake & Sevanavank, we will make an optional stop at one of the restaurants so you can enjoy a tasty lunch. Finally, we’ll had back to Tbilisi and you’ll arrive in the Capital of Georgia in the evening. This will finalize the Tbilisi Yerevan trip.

Note: An Extra free day or a day trip in Yerevan can be organized upon request. If you’d like to spend an additional day in Yerevan, please specify so in the Booking Form Comments and we’ll send you all the details and possible itineraries.

Day 1 - 09:00 - Departure from your hotel

Day 1 - 10:00 - sadakhlo border crossing, day 1 - 11:00 - akhtala fortress, day 1 - 12:30 - monastery of haghpat, day 1 - 13:30 - sanahin monastery, day 1 - 14:20 - drive to yerevan & optional lunch, day 2 - 09:00 - pickup from your address, day 2 - 10:00 - khor virap, day 2 - 11:45 - garni complex, day 2 - 13:30 - sevan lake, day 2 - 14:00 - sevanavank monastery, day 2 - 19:00 - border crossing & drive to tbilisi, what's included, inclusions for the sightseeing.

• Licensed Transport with Air Conditioning
• All Entrance Fees & Activities
• Pickup & Drop off at your hotel

Prices given above are for private tours. All of the private tours include a free hotel pickup and drop off in the city of departure/arrival. You can specify the pickup and drop off points during the booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main attractions included in the tbilisi yerevan trip over 2 days, can an extra free day or a day trip in yerevan be organized upon request, what is included in the sightseeing package for the tbilisi yerevan trip, what are the visa requirements for visiting armenia, and where can guests check the latest information.

We were a group of 4 people visiting Georgia and wanted to get a taste of Armenia too. It was a perfect trip. Well planned and organized. Thank you Kartveli Tours! You are the best!

We absolutely loved trip. Driver Max was so super, he drove to each and every place on the trip, he was superb, we already miss the place.

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Destinations

Day trip to armenia from tbilisi: our experience.

Are you considering a day trip to Armenia from Tbilisi? Maybe you’re wondering whether it’s even possible, and which parts of Armenia you can visit from Georgia? Let us share our experience of taking an organised tour to see monasteries in the mountains, abandoned Soviet factory towns, relics of the occupation days, and a delicious meal in local family home.

We tried this Armenia day trip personally, we paid for it ourselves and we have not been paid for this review. This page contains affiliate links, which means we may make a small commission from bookings at no extra cost to you. We always given honest, genuine travel recommendations.

In this article:

This tour is for you if:

• You want to see Armenia while you are visiting Georgia but have limited time.
• You are interested to learn about Armenia’s culture through a historical lens.
• You like tours with a mixture of historical landmarks and beautiful scenery.
• You have an interest in Soviet history and its legacy in former bloc countries.
• You want to experience traditional Armenian dining in a family home.

Quick links to book this day trip to Armenia: Viator | GetYourGuide

Is Armenia worth visiting?

Armenia might not be the first country on your bucket list to visit, but it is a very interesting place to explore if you are the curious type of traveller.

If you like to visit authentic destinations with unique cultures and fascinating histories, then Armenia is definitely worth visiting. You will also love it if you like natural scenery. The country is set among a rugged mountain landscape that is guaranteed to impress, and this also provides a setting for various hiking trails.

As Armenia doesn’t have a lot of tourism, the local culture feels very distinct and authentic. There isn’t a show put on for visitors, as you might experience in other places.

This also means that there isn’t a well developed infrastructure for tourism, so visiting Armenia can require a bit more effort and planning.

Can you visit Armenia from Georgia?

Georgia and Armenia share a border, and you can travel between the two countries overland if you have a valid passport. The border is about 90 minutes’ drive south of Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital.

Public transport in Georgia outside of the cities is sparse and infrequent, and it’s not easy to travel to Armenia in this way if you are just looking to visit on a day trip to the northern part of the country.

There are transport connections between Tbilisi and Armenia’s capital, Yerevan. You can travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan by flight, train or bus, but these options are more suitable if you are travelling more slowly, such as a longer backpacking trip. For example, the overnight sleeper train from Tbilisi to Yerevan takes over 10 hours.

If you’re hiring a car in Georgia, you could drive across the border. However, we wouldn’t recommend this unless you are very comfortable and experienced in driving on narrow mountain roads!

The easiest way to visit Armenia from Georgia is by booking an organised tour, which is what we did.

With the north of Armenia being within close reach of Tbilisi, it’s possible to take a trip to see historic sites and natural landmarks in this region, such as the sprawling Lake Sevan and an array of religious buildings high in the hills.

You can even take a day trip all the way to Yerevan . There is one tour company that does this from Tbilisi, but it is a real mammoth of a trip that takes 17 hours! We originally booked to try it, but we decided to change to a shorter tour as it became difficult to fit into our schedule. (Reality… we booked onto a full day wine tour in Georgia the day before, and we didn’t fancy such a long day trip with a hangover!)

What do you need to bring for a day trip to Armenia?

First of all, the most important thing to bring with you is your passport! As long as you have that, you will be ok. It will be hard to forget, as the tour company will remind you several times before setting off.

The northern region of Armenia is mountainous, and so we recommend wrapping up warm, especially if you visit outside of summer. But be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip.

I also wore my hiking boots , which turned out to be a good decision, as we had to walk over muddy ground at a couple of the monasteries.

It’s worth bringing some loose cash, especially dollars or euros, but this isn’t essential. I’ll explain a bit later about how the currency exchange works at the border.

Finally, make sure you bring a camera! You are going to see some truly unique sites and stunning scenery, and I am sure you will want to capture the moment.

Our day trip from Tbilisi to Armenia

We took a full day trip (around 10 to 12 hours) from Tbilisi to the north of Armenia, which included visits to three monasteries and a homemade lunch with a local family.

There were also some fascinating additional sites in the itinerary, such as a stop at an abandoned Soviet town, and a museum about two famous Armenian aeroneutical engineers with a genuine original Soviet-era warplane on site.

We booked this tour on Viator , which is where we find and book a lot of our travel experiences. You can also book the same tour on GetYourGuide , which we use frequently ourselves as well.

The tour begins officially at 9am, but you will be asked to arrive 30 minutes early at Avlabari metro station. This isn’t just to make sure everyone is there on time; the tour guides need to take you to their offices and check everyone has their passports before setting off.

Our tour guide was Len, from Georgia, who was friendly and informative from the very beginning. He clearly has a deep knowledge of Armenia’s history and geopolitics, and was very happy to share it with us. Throughout the day he told us interesting stories on the minibus rides between locations, and gave an entertaining explanation at each stop.

Once you set off, it takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours to reach the border depending on traffic. We got lucky with a clear road, and after whizzing through the beautiful Georgian countryside it was time to enter a new country.

Crossing the border from Georgia to Armenia

The border point for crossing into Armenia on this tour is on the Bagratashen–Sadakhlo road, which is the main route for traffic between the capitals (Tbilisi and Yerevan). We had anticipated the border crossing might be difficult and time-consuming, as we’ve found with some other places on our travels. But it turned out to be super quick and efficient.

Before we arrived at the border, Len explained everything that would happen. First, you arrive at the checkpoint to exit Georgia. At this point we got out of the minibus, taking our bags with us, and most importantly our passports.

Passport control took less than five minutes, and then we hopped back on the minibus, before being driven a short distance to repeat the process again to enter Armenia. In total, the whole border crossing took no longer than 15 minutes.

If you have visited Azerbaijan previously, then this process might take a bit longer. Relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia have been poor for a long time, and Len explained to us that we would likely be asked a lot of questions if we had an Azerbaijan stamp in our passports. Ultimately, though, there should still be no problem entering the country.

Len did tell us one anecdote about a guy who got stuck in no man’s land between the two borders. He was an Armenian who was ejected from the country, but then after Georgia refused his entry, Armenia wouldn’t take him back. Stories like these are very rare though, and extremely unlikely to happen to tourists.

Exchanging currency for Armenia

The national currency in Armenia currency is the dram. Straight after crossing the border into the country you will have a chance to obtain some currency.

Firstly, there is an ATM immediately after you pass through passport control in Armenia. The mininum withdrawal is the equivalent of about US $10.

After this, we were driven in the minibus to a small nearby supermarket, which had a currency exchange. You can change Georgian currency to Armenian here, but as Len explained to us, you will get a better rate if you exchange dollars or euros.

As Armenia has had a strained economy for many years, the exchange rates have slid quite drastically, and prices have become lower as a result for visitors. However, this is a situation that can change at any time so it’s worth checking the currency exchange rate before you travel.

It’s not actually essential to get any Armenian currency for this day trip. During the day there aren’t many moments when you can buy anything, and you only really need money if you want some souvenirs.

We decided to get $10 worth of dram, which we ended up spending on some Armenian whisky and a fridge magnet. Drinks and snacks were extremely cheap – we bought a Twix for the equivalent of about 40p / $0.50.

Stop 1: Akhtala Monastery

The first stop on our day trip was Akhtala Monastery, a 13th century church surrounded by hills and mountain slopes specked with old Soviet architecture.

As you wind your way up to the monastery on the narrow roads, you will be excused for thinking you have stepped into a post-apocalyptic alternative reality. Much of the Armenian landscape bears the remnants of the Soviet past, with many factory buildings having long been abandoned.

At Akhtala Monastery you will see some interesting monuments and ruins around the grounds, before taking an eerie journey into history as you step inside the church. Magnificent frescoes are painted onto the inner walls, but many have faces missing. Len explained the reason for this, but we’re not going to spoil all the secrets of the tour in this review!

We appreciated the steady pacing of the day’s itinerary. There were no long drives between stops, and we were given a nice amount of free time at each place to absorb the location and take some photos.

Stop 2: Haghpat Monastery

The second site we visited was the magnificent Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 10th century, this complex has withstood the ravishes of time and multiple invasions of foreign empires. This makes it even older than Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, which we found quite incredible.

You need to walk over gravestones to enter the church, but don’t worry; this is actually considered an act of respect in Armenia. Len told us how he tried to avoid them when he first visited, and the locals laughed and knew he must be Georgian.

The church reopened to the public in 1992 after the fall of the Soviet Union, and is still in use today.

Next to the church is another 10th century church building that served as a library. On the inner walls you can still see the black charring from when the books were burned by Mongol invaders in the 13th century. It’s another mind-boggling step back in time, and a place where you can quietly contemplate how life might have been in another era.

Stop 3: lunch at a local family home

Most organised tours we’ve done over the years have taken us to restaurants for lunch, but that wasn’t the case with this Armenia day trip. Instead, we were invited into the home of a local family for a traditional sit-down meal.

Armenian food revolves around meat, and our main lunch dish was barbecued pork and chicken. This was brought out after we had already had a chance to fill our plates with an array of side dishes, which included many meat-free options.

The banquet included some traditional vegetable fritters, cheeses, salads and breads, and there was more than enough for everyone, with plenty left over at the end! We definitely weren’t left hungry.

Agriculture is a huge part of Armenia’s economy today, and you could tell that our food was fresh from the farms.

It was great to experience a traditional Armenian meal and the customs of a family home, rather than just another restaurant trip.

Stop 4: Mikoyan Brothers’ Museum

This is an optional stop in the itinerary, but we were glad it was included in ours, as it added an extra dimension to the tour. The Mikoyan brothers were aeronautical engineers who developed pioneering aircraft designs that had a big influence on the Soviet Union.

At the entrance to the museum is a genuine original MiG 21 aircraft from the Soviet days, which stands looking out onto the mountains. Solemn statues pay tribute to the two brothers, and you can learn all about the innovations they made in aircraft design.

Relations between Armenia and Russia today remain close, and Len explained to us that Armenians can opt to have dual citizenship with Russia. We were surprised to learn that around 30–40% of Armenians cross the border to work in Russia, and send their earnings back home.

This museum was one of the examples we encountered that reflected the affinity that continues between the two countries.

Stop 5: Sanahin Monastery

The third and final monastery of the day trip was the 10th-century Sanahin Monastery, which has UNESCO World Heritage Site status together with Haghpat.

Monks live at the monastery, and we were fascinated to hear from Len about the lifestyle sacrifices they choose to make, as well as the distinction between white monks and black monks.

Cracks in the architecture of the monastery show the marks of earthquakes over the years. Armenia is susceptible to seismic activity, and there is a small-scale (but very noteiceable) tremor every couple of weeks.

Stop 6: Alaverdi, an abandoned Soviet town

The final stop on our Armenia day trip is one that will live in our memories for a long time. We descended to a place called Alaverdi, a town that has been frozen in time since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

High above the town, cable cars dangle from a line, where they have hung slowly decaying for more than three decades. On the side of a river bank stands a colossal old copper factory, creepily silent and empty, with its chimneys and engine houses crumbling in time.

We had some spare time to soak in the atmosphere of Alaverdi, and there was also a pathway up the far side of a riverbank where we could climb for an elevated view.

Alaverdi is very close to the border, so when we were finished exploring it was just a short drive to the crossing before making the drive back to Tbilisi. And after such a fascinating day, we had plenty to talk about with the group on the way back!

FAQs about visiting Armenia from Tbilisi

Do i need a visa to visit armenia.

You may need a visa to enter Armenia depending on your nationality. For example, coming from the UK, we can enter Armenia without a visa and stay for up to 180 days. The same is true for US citizens, but if you are from Canada, you need a visa to enter Armenia. Check out the full list of visa-exempt countries for Armenia to find out more.

Is Armenia safe?

Armenia is generally a very safe country for foreign visitors. Crime rates are low, and any violence against tourists is pretty much unheard of. But, as with any destination, be sure to exercise caution. The border region between Armenia and Azerbaijan is known to be volatile, and can be hit by outbreaks of violence. It’s not likely your itinerary will take you anywhere near the border area though – this day trip, like all Armenia organised tours, goes nowhere near it.

Where is cheaper, Armenia or Georgia?

Costs in Armenia are generally much lower than Georgia for travellers. We found that our money went a lot further as soon as we crossed the border. The cost of living is also lower in Armenia than Georgia.

Can you visit Yerevan from Tbilisi?

The drive time from Tbilisi to Yerevan, the Armenian capital, is about five hours with good traffic. You may be surprised to hear that it’s actually possible to make this journey on an organised day trip. There is one company we have found that offers a day trip from Tbilisi to Yerevan , which also includes visits to the northern monasteries and Lake Sevan. As I mentioned above, we originally booked this tour before we decided to rearrange our plans for a shorter one.

Have you visited Armenia from Georgia before? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

Looking to discover Georgian wine? Check out our review of a unique wine tour in Georgia we took that blew our minds!

Interested in taking a remote working trip to the Caucasus? See our guide to taking a workation in Tbilisi, Georgia .

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Alex Trembath

Alex is the co-founder and lead content creator at Career Gappers. He is an award-winning communications leader with 20 years of leadership experience, a career that has taken him across the world working with international organisations. Alex has travelled to over 50 countries and is a passionate advocate for blending work and travel by taking career breaks, sabbaticals, workations and business trips.

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How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Yerevan to Tbilisi) – a complete guide

Last Updated on 04/01/2024 by kami

I adore the Caucasus region. I visit it as often as possible and both, Tbilisi (Georgia) and Yerevan (Armenia) are on the very top of my list of favorite places.

That’s why I also often happen to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan or from Yerevan to Tbilisi (last time I took this route was a week ago).

If you are wondering how to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan or from Yerevan to Tbilisi I’ve prepared this guide for you. I personally used all three methods described below and I can 100% vouch which one is the best in which direction (since not everything works in both ways).

Read on and if you have any questions feel free to join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus and ask there!

Georgia and Armenia essentials

Planning a trip to Georgia and Armenia? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
• Get insured for your trip to Georgia and Armenia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi by minivan

Minivan is the best option to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi. I took it most often (like 5 times by now) and never had a single issue, maybe except too fast driving but that’s a standard in the Caucasus and I got used to it after all the frequent visits in the region.

This way of transportation from Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi is affordable, fast and rather comfortable (you will be sharing the ride with six more people and the driver and there will be enough space for your legs and handbag). The journey should take around 5 hours, including the border crossing.

the minivan I took the last time I went from Yerevan to Tbilisi

Tbilisi to Yerevan

In Tbilisi, minivans depart from next to Avlabari metro station.

You can easily reach the place by metro, the departure point is directly on your right side when you leave the station, on the parking in front of the church. You only need to cross the street to get there.

Minivans departing from here run on schedule. Currently they depart at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:00. The price is 50 Georgian Lari (around $18 / €18).

It’s good to book the seat in advance – you can call this number (+995)5 93 22 95 54 or make your accommodation in Tbilisi do it for you if you don’t feel confident enough with the language skills.

You can also book your seat online – click here to do it.

But even without the reserved seat, you should be fine, it might just take some time and effort to find the seat for you.

Try to be at the departure point some 30 minutes before, to avoid any problems. You might also depart earlier if the car is already full (that always happens to me in Yerevan).

In Yerevan, you will arrive at Kilikia bus station.

minivans to Yerevan at Avlabari in Tbilisi

Yerevan to Tbilisi

Minivans depart from the Kilikia bus station (central bus station in Yerevan), directly on the left side of the station when you look at it.

The best way to get here is by Yandex Taxi, the last time it charged me 300 AMD ($0,65 / €0,57) from near the Republic Square. From Mashtots Avenue you can catch bus number 5 for 100 AMD.

The departure times from Kilikia are at 7:30, 8:30, 10:30,13:00, 15:00 and 17:00, the ticket costs 7000 AMD ($14,70 / €13,20).

Again, it’s better to call in advance and book the seat, you can do it under this number +37494929281 or ask your Yerevan accommodation to do it (that’s what I usually do).

Or you can book your seat online – click here to do it .

At Kilikia bus station head to the office (the company is called “Comfort Tours” and is located right in front of the cars heading to Yerevan, in the station building) and pay for the ride there. You will get the ticket and will be directed to the car.

Last time I took the minivan I was lucky as I was the last one for the car and left from Yerevan at 09:55, 35 minutes ahead of schedule.

The minivan I took at Kilikia bus station in Yerevan

What to expect from the minivan ride?

The minivan ride in either direction, Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi, might be a bit nerve-wracking as drivers in the Caucasus are crazy. If you are not used to fast and a bit reckless driving you might feel a bit uncomfortable but everything is under control.

The minivans go via Lake Sevan, Dilijan and Noyemberyan, you can expect some beautiful views along the way.

The usual time of the journey is around 5 hours, including border crossing but since the border can be unpredictable you never know how long it will take. If you have something planned in either of the capitals better take the earlier car.

Along the way you can expect one or two stops in Armenia for a toilet and some small shopping so if you are going from Tbilisi to Yerevan better exchange some money for Armenian drams still in Georgia .

Minivans used for this journey, usually Mercedes Vito or Viano, are comfortable and offer enough space for your legs. 5 hours journey really isn’t that bad in such a car.

one of the stops on the way from Yerevan to Tbilisi

A border crossing between Georgia and Armenia

You will cross the border at Bagratashen – Sadakhlo Border Crossing, around an hour north of Tbilisi.

It’s a rather smooth and calm border and you shouldn’t spend too much time there but again, everything depends on your luck (once I had three Asian girls in the marshrutka with me and we had to wait for some 30 minutes for them to deal with the whole visa on arrival procedure in Armenia).

In general, when you depart one country you just take your passport with you and proceed to the building to get the exit stamp from either Georgia or Armenia. In the second part of the border crossing, when you approach the country you are about to enter, you have to take your luggage with you and proceed to the border building to have it x-rayed and to have your passport checked.

I always find entering Georgia easier than entering Armenia. In the second one you might be asked some questions, about your reason to visit, plans or the accommodation in Yerevan. If you have visited Azerbaijan before you might be also asked about it so just tell the truth (they will see your Azeri stamps anyway).

You shouldn’t have any problems because of your trip to Azerbaijan, you only might be asked extra questions, that’s it. Right now, after five visits in Armenia documented in my current passport and one trip to Azerbaijan I get more questions about my previous stays in Armenia and I’m not really asked anymore about Azerbaijan. But everything depends on the person who is checking your documents.

In general, this is a regular border crossing, nothing extraordinary so there is no reason to be nervous about it.

Do you need a visa to Armenia / Georgia?

Most of the countries don’t need a visa to either Georgia or Armenia. But just to be sure check it before your trip from Tbilisi to Yerevan or from Yerevan to Tbilisi. You can see the visa policy of Georgia here and Armenia here and here .

If you need a Georgian visa you can most likely get it online before or obtain it in the embassy.

Travelers who need a visa to Armenia can most likely get in online or at the border crossing. The visa on arrival costs 15.000 AMD and is available at Bagratashen – Sadakhlo Border Crossing.

How to get to Avlabari in Tbilisi?

In Tbilisi, minivans arrive to and depart from Avlabari, the Armenian quarter.

The minivan stop is located across the street from the Avlabari metro station, in front of the Armenian church. You only need to cross the street on your right when exiting the metro station and you are there.

You can also get here by bus, Avlabari is reachable by buses no 25, 37, 137, 2, 46, 43 and 39.

See the blue blck of flats in the background? That’s where Avlabari metro station is

How to get to Kilikia bus station in Yerevan?

In Yerevan, minibusses arrive and depart from Kilikia bus station, at Admiral Isakov Avenue. It is located some 2,5 kilometers from the center so you can walk there.

You can take the bus no 5 from/to Mashtots Avenue, it costs 100 AMD, paid to the driver.

Another option is to take Yandex Taxi, the last time I was charged 300 AMD from near Republic Square. A regular taxi shouldn’t cost more than 1000 AMD, depending on your bargain skills.

Kilikia bus station

Marshrutka from Tbilisi to Yerevan

You can also travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan by bus (marshrutka) but to be honest I would not recommend it.

If you are familiar with travels in the former Soviet Union you probably know this mode of transportation very well – an uncomfortable and cramped minibus that you dream of getting out from 5 minutes after getting in.

I usually use them in most of the post-Soviet countries I visit: Ukraine , Moldova , Armenia , Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan , simply because there is no other choice. For Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi route you do have a choice hence I would consider marshrutka only if two other options, minivan, and train, fail.

Marshrutkas at Kilikia bus station

In Tbilisi, marshrutkas depart from Station Square (I didn’t take that one) or Ortachala bus station.

They depart when they are full so you never know how long you would have to wait. When I took the marshrutka from Ortachala I arrived at the bus station before 10 am and departed only around 11 am as I was the first one for it (at least I could choose the best seat).

The price is also similar to the minivan for Tbilisi to Yerevan route but the journey is a bit longer than with minivan, you can expect around 6 hours as marshrutka takes a different route in Armenia, via Alaverdi.

The border crossing and all the procedures are the same as written above in the minivan section, marshrutkas use the same Bagratashen – Sadakhlo Border Crossing.

At Ortachala you will find marshrutkas for Yerevan at the lower platform of the station. There are also buses and marshrutkas for Russia , Turkey or Azerbaijan so ask around for Yerevan one and you will be pointed in the right direction.

You will also need a ticket that you can buy in the ticket desk, you can do it yourself or the driver will do it for you. You will have to present your passport when buying the ticket.

Ortachala bus station is located a bit away from the center. You can reach it by bus no 44, 55 or 71 from the bus stop “Baratashvili street” near Old Tbilisi . Yandex Taxi from Liberty Square should cost around 5 Lari.

In Yerevan, the marshrutkas arrive at Kilikia bus station, just like minivans.

Ortachala bus station

Tbilisi to Yerevan or Yerevan to Tbilisi by train

You can also travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan or from Yerevan to Tbilisi by train.

I’ve done it three times and I can definitely recommend it but only in Tbilisi to Yerevan direction, when the border crossing isn’t in the middle of the night and you will actually get some decent sleep. That’s also when you can wake up to the stunning views of Mount Ararat before arriving to Yerevan.

In the offseason, the train between Georgia and Armenia runs every second day, from Tbilisi to Yerevan on the odd days of the month and from Yerevan to Tbilisi on the even days.

It departs from Tbilisi at 20:20 and arrives in Yerevan at 06:55 the next morning, with the border stop between 22:02 and 00:40.

In the opposite direction, it departs from Yerevan at 21:30 and arrives in Tbilisi at 07:50, with the border stop between 03:45 and 06:05. And this is why I can recommend the train only when going from Georgia to Armenia. At the border you most likely won’t get any sleep, even when your passport is already checked, since there are people walking around and talking for all the time and it’s pretty loud.

In the high season (June 15th to September 30th) the train runs every day between Yerevan and Batumi on the Georgian Black Sea coast , with the stop in Tbilisi.

It then departs from Tbilisi at 22:15 and arrived in Yerevan at 07:30 the next morning. From Yerevan it departs at 15:30 and arrived to Tbilisi shortly after midnight.

If you traveled by train in any former Soviet Union countries you know what to expect from this train journey too. The trains might be a bit old and rusty but they are comfortable and clean. Before the journey, you will receive your own bedsheets in a sealed plastic bag so you can make your own bed.

The train is more expensive than minivan and marshrutka but then you save one night of accommodation in either Yerevan or Tbilisi. You can choose between platskartny (third class) with no compartments and beds in the open space, kupe (second class) with compartments for 4 people and spalny vagon (first-class) with 2 beds compartments.

As of January 2020, the ticket for Tbilisi-Yerevan train cost 70 lari in the third class, 106.20 lari in the second class and 128,30 lari in the first class. In the other direction, Yerevan to Tbilisi it’s 12 425 drams for the third class, 18 405 drams for the second class and 22 075 for the first class.

You can purchase the tickets at the train stations, you should be able to do it in English. Remember to have the passport with you, it will be needed! You can also buy the tickets online at the website of Armenian South Caucasus Railways.

In Tbilisi, the best way to reach the train station is by metro (Station Square stop) by both lines. The train station building will be on your left when you leave the metro station.

In Yerevan, you can also get to the train station by metro. The metro stop is called Sasuntsi Davit, it’s two metro stops away from Republic Square.

Tbilisi train station

No matter which way of transportation between Tbilisi and Yerevan you choose, you are in for a treat. Both capitals are amazing yet so different. Below you can find more articles I wrote about Armenia and Georgia that you might find useful when planning your trip!

• 18 Amazing Places to Visit in Armenia
• Reasons to visit Yerevan, Armenia – one of my favorite cities
• The best hotels in Yerevan – luxury, mid-range and budget accommodation
• Guide to Yerevan Soviet architecture
• Armenia facts: What you should know about Armenia
• 15 reasons to visit Georgia – the amazing emerging destination
• Tbilisi guide – 21 Tbilisi travel tips to make your trip easier
• Buying a SIM card in Georgia – all you need to know
• How not to visit the Chronicle of Georgia in Tbilisi
• Day trip to David Gareja monastery from Tbilisi

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Georgia and Armenia

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Georgia and Armenia here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Georgia and Armenia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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22 Comments

John Richard Keatley Standingford

Well done, Kami! I am familiar with both countries but have never made the journey between them by road or rail. Your detailed compilation of practical information inspires me to do it as soon as work commitments and Covid-19-related restrictions allow.

Thank you! I hope you will be able to visit both, Georgia and Armenia, soon! All the best!

Hello! Thanks for such a nice article. I’d like to ask you about taking big luggage in the minivan. I have a 25 kg medium/big size suitcase and 2 backpacks. Do you think they will let me travel in the minivan?

Thank you!!

To be honest I’m not sure as I’ve never traveled with so much luggage. Why don’t you ask on my FB group about traveling in the former Soviet Union, most likely one of the members will know the answer :) Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/121053081614593

Visa on arrival in Armenia isn’t possible anymore. Got rejected from the border (I’m Canadia). You need the evisa in advance now and it takes a few days to process

Thank you for the update and useful info!

Just bought a bus ticket. Thanks for the help. 😊 Btw. A bus ticket from Yerevan to Tbilisi is now 8000 and the company is called Comfort Armenia.

Thanks for the info! Have a good trip!

Hi How the travel from Tblisinto Yeryvan by train

everything is described in the article.

Hi! Today I’ve bought the minivan ticket from Tbilisi (Avlabari) to Yerevan, and I’d like to make an update: now it costs 50 GEL

Thank you for the update, really appreciate it!

Hi Kami. Thanks for the guide. Just to let you know as of 19/10/22 the price is now 50 GEL. Couldn’t find it for 35 including the number you provided.

Thanks again!

Thank you for the update, I will change it in the article right away. Thank you!

Liked your article its is very informative. Thank you. I am also interested finding out how to travel in Georgia in Budget? do I find this information in any of your articles?

Thank you. I don’t think I have such articles but you can check my friend Emily’s blog Wander-lush as she has many articles about Georgia.

Systembolaget

Excellent blog, so many valuable insights! That said, there seems to be no online service available to book an AR Comfort Tour minibus from Tbilisi to Yerevan. The t-armenia.com site shows the schedule and names the operator, but the AR Comfort Tour email provided there is invalid (emails bounce). How would you suggest to purchase a minibus ticket in advance, as a Swede, for example, meaning when you don’t speak any Armenian? Tack!

You can try via the website of the Comfort Tours here https://arcomfort.am/eng/product/yerevan-tbilisi/ or ask your accommodation in Tbilisi to call and book a place for you (that’s what I always did and never had any issues with that). Good luck and have a good trip!

You give very good information. Thank you very much

Thank you for your kind feedback!

Hi, Kami. I’m an avid traveler as well (90+ countries at last count) and sometime blogger. I’m currently living in Paris and planning a Caucasus trip in May: Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia. My plan is to get a transfer with some tour stops along the way between Tblisi and Yeravan. Your mention of Armenian border questions about Azerbaijan visits makes me wonder, given recent tensions between the two countries, if visiting one or the other first would make things easier. I’m still at the planning stage where I can reverse order if need be. Thanks and great blog!

Hi Tamara. Thank you for your kind words. I don’t want to mislead you as it’s been a while since I crossed the border from Armenia to Georgia. But I haven’t heard about people having issues there recently. The best place to ask would be on my Facebook group dedicated to traveling in the Caucasus (among a few other places). It’s a great community and members seem to know everything. Here’s the link to join https://www.facebook.com/groups/121053081614593

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THE BEST Day Trips from Yerevan to Tbilisi

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Yerevan City Tour From Tbilisi. Set off in the early morning to Armenia – Yerevan , which is the largest city in Armenia. Take the city tour in the pink capital of Armenia , Yerevan, which is also the largest city in the nation. The history of Yerevan, initially named “Erebuni”, dates back to the 8th century BC. Get around the city by walking across a couple of ancient streets; such as, Baghramyan, Abovyan, and Mashtots . Then visit the historic Victory Park , from where you can get the whole view of the city. Walk down the Cascade Complex , a massive stairway with fountains, and visit the National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet . At Cascade complex , you can stop by Cafesjian Center of the Arts, founded by Gerard Cafesjian, which presents a wide variety of exhibits of contemporary art. Continue exploring the city by visiting one of the most famous landmarks, Matenadaran , a unique Museum of Armenian Manuscripts, located on the widest street of central Yerevan, “Mashtots Avenue”. The museum is also named after Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of Armenian alphabet, whose statue is placed in front of the building. When the museum was established as a distinct institution it had around 10,000 manuscripts, and now, it has 23,000. You’ll have a chance to visit the legendary Armenian Brandy Company “Ararat” , which began its production in 1887 in Yerevan. In a quarter of a century, Armenian Brandy gained worldwide recognition and its production reached a grand scale. Finally, visit Vernissage known as the Museum in the open air.

Day tours from Tbilisi, Whether you are seeking a private day tours or a group day tours from Tbilisi, Santa Maria Tours is dedicated to assisting you in discovering the ideal option to suit your preferences. Among our extensive array of day trips from Tbilisi.

Also you might need a visa for your trip . Use our site of MFA, visa search tool to enter your citizenship country and travel document type to determine if you are required to obtain a visa or not. Click on the link to find more: Visa information

Return to Tbilisi at the end of the tour.

Day Tour Highlights

• Matenadaran Museum
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Day Tour Details Country Georgia City Tbilisi Duration 15 hours KM 620 KM Tour Starts 8.00 AM Pick Up Your Hotel Order Details

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In-depth Cultural

Best of Georgia & Armenia

"Good itinerary, excellent guides. Sona was particularly good, she gave us a real feel for the history and culture of Armenia." KateCowie, traveled in May 2019

In-depth Cultural Explorer

The Best of Georgia and Armenia

• 10% deposit on some dates

In-depth Cultural Family Explorer Christmas & New Year +2

Armenia & Georgia Combination - A Journey through the Ancient Lands

• 5% deposit on some dates

Food & Culinary Explorer

Georgia Real Food Adventure

Best of Armenia and Georgia - (Private Tour)

In-depth Cultural Explorer Coach / Bus +1

Georgia & Armenia Adventure

Armenia Georgia Hightlights in 9 days

• €50 deposit on some dates

Active Hiking & Trekking

Transcaucasian Trail Hike Armenia

Explorer Family

Armenia & Georgia small group tour

Active Intl. Flights Included Historical +2

Armenia & Georgia: Highlights

• Flights included
• Explorer from Yerevan to Tbilisi (8)

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• Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi

2-day Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi 2 Days | Armenia

For those with a little extra time, but not a lot, this two-day tour to some of Armenia’s most engaging and unique sights is a perfect opportunity. Start at Haghpat Monastery, a prime example of traditional Armenian architecture perched above a winding river, before continuing on to Lake Sevan, the jewel of Armenia. Explore Sevanavank Monastery, one of the most recognizable sights in Armenia. After an overnight in Yerevan, head out for a sightseeing walk around the city, which will cover some of the most important and picturesque sights in the Armenian capital. Make a final stop at Geghard Monastery, a striking monastery cut into mountain cliffs, before returning back to Tbilisi with 2-day Tour to Armenia from Tbilisi.

Tour itinerary:

• All transfers (1-2 pax by sedan, 3-4 pax by Mercedes Vito or similar, 5-10 pax by Mercedes Sprinter passenger van);
• Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
• Sightseeing tour program in Armenia with local English-speaking guide;
• Entrance tickets to sights as per itinerary.
• Full board (lunches and dinners);
• Hotel charges for additional services;
• Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
• Personal travel insurance.

Prices, per person

Accommodation, tour request, tour to armenia from tbilisi reviews, post a comment, more similar tours to 2-day tour to armenia from tbilisi.

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Yerevan , Things To Do

12 popular day trips from yerevan that you’ll absolutely love.

It is easy to end up sucked into Yerevan and its exciting cafe scene and pleasant streets. But, many amazing day trips from Yerevan make a trip to Armenia a delight for any traveler.

If youʻre booking your trip to Yerevan  last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

🇦🇲  Top Experiences and Tours in/from Yerevan:

• Day Trip to Khorvirap, Noravank, and Areni Winery (top-rated day tour from Yerevan!)
• Garni Temple & Geghard Tour with Lavash Baking Day tour (also popular day tour!)
• Tsaghkadzor & Lake Sevan Guided Tour (wonderful nature tour from Yerevan!)
• Private Walking Food Tour with 6 Tastings (recommended food tour in Yerevan!)

🛌  Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander   (luxury option + SPA, authentic dining venues, indoor pool!)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in excellent location!)
• 14th Floor (in the center with a wonderful view of Mount Ararat!)
• Grand Hostel (budget option in Yerevan!)

🚗  Looking for the best way to get around Armenia? Click here to check rental car rates for Armenia!

This is a guide to some of the best Yerevan day trips!

Best Day Trips from Yerevan

I spent many years not realizing the value and offerings of my own country.

We tend to all do that with the place we call home. In recent years, I started traveling around Armenia in search of some of the best places to recommend to visitors (and locals!)

What really struck me as special is that the small size of Armenia allowed for so many opportunities to take day trips from Yerevan, the capital city.

So many of these Yerevan day trips are incomparable to sights you’d find in other parts of the world.

The unique and mesmerizing sights surrounding Yerevan make the capital city really special.

This day trip guide will showcase UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic monasteries, stunning scenery, adventurous landscapes, and much more.

All of the places listed on this Yerevan day trip guide are within three hours of the capital city and we detail why you should visit.

Many are easily visited with a marshrutka, private car, or by taking an affordable tour.

If you have suggestions for worthwhile day trips from Yerevan, please shoot us an email or leave a comment in the section below.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Armenia?

We definitely recommend booking travel insurance for Armenia if you’re heading there.  We highly suggest using SafetyWing , a travel insurance made by travelers, for travelers.

The Norwegian company is the one when we use it when on the road and Megan uses them when she is in Armenia.

Their policies offer widespread coverage and affordable rates

>> Click here to get an Armenia travel insurance quote

Renting a Car in Armenia

One of the easiest ways to get around. The roads are slowly taking shape and getting fixed and they are pretty safe to drive on these days.

Yerevan’s traffic can be madness, but outside of the city, you will find the roads pretty easy and never really that congested with traffic.

>> Click here to rent a car in Armenia

Yerevan Card

If you are spending a few days in the capital city, you will definitely want to get your hands on a Yerevan Card .

This pass comes at an affordable price and gives you access to some of the city’s best sights at a fraction of the price, or even free!

We actually use the Yerevan Card around town and enjoy free museum entrances, discounts at our favorite cafes, and more.

It also gives discounts for local Yerevan day trips (some that are even on this guide!) and a free taxi ride from the airport.

>> Click here to purchase the Yerevan Card

Yerevan Day Tours

Are you keen to organize some day tours from Yerevan and not too stoked on the idea of going to these places independently?

Don’t worry… there are some super affordable day tours that you can take from Yerevan.

We will detail them throughout this text, but here are a few we recommend investing in if you want to see the best of Armenia with very little planning:

What to Pack for Armenia

Packing for Armenia is pretty easy if you pack for the correct season.  Summer is hot; winter is cold. Here are some other things we recommend packing for your trip to Armenia:

Power adapter (Europe):  If you’re coming from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or somewhere that is not mainland Europe, you will need a European power adapter .

We recommend just purchasing one and then connecting it to a power strip from your home country’s plug type.

Lonely Planet Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan:  Sometimes it is nice to have a tangible book in your hand and the Lonely Planet one for the Caucasus is no exception.

We recommend investing in one for your trip as you will have all the information you need at your fingertips and you won’t have to spend too much time glued to your phone.

Click here to purchase Lonely Planet Caucasus.

Reusable Water Bottle (Klean Kanteen):   Armenia has awesome water and you will want to tote your reusable water bottle with you so that you don’t have to resort to purchasing bottled water.

Armenia is trying to clean up its plastic and trash so be part of the solution, not the problem!

Click here to see the Klean Kanteen we travel with.

Allergy Pills (if you need them):  Megan sometimes struggles with allergies in Armenia during certain times of the year.

The air can be somewhat dusty, particularly if you head down south where the climate is dry and there are not many trees.

If you struggle with dust, be sure to bring some allergy pills to help you out.

Yerevan Day Trips to Other Cities in Armenia

Below, you will find some of our favorite day trips from Yerevan.

We have selected the most popular ones and will continue to add to this in the future with others.

We will also be creating a guide of off-the-path places to visit from Yerevan in the future.

Etchmiadzin

How far is Etchmiadzin from Yerevan? The distance from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin is 19 kilometers or around 11 miles.

It will take you about 35 minutes to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Etchmiadzin? The best time to travel to Etchmiadzin is in the spring.

The flowers begin blooming and the churches are colorful and lively in and around the Easter holidays.

Visiting Etchmiadzin around the New Year is also fun as the city is home to a Pomegranate Festival.

If you’re interested in food festivals, be sure to head out this way during May for a Tolma Festival near the Zvartnots Cathedral.

How to get from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin:  There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin.

You can take a minibus from Kilikia Bus Station at 6 Isakov Avenue to Etchmiadzin. In addition, there are new minibusses that will take you from Etchmiadzin to the Yerevan center and not to the Kilikia Station. This is bus #203.

For the buses that go to Kilikia station, the price is 250 AMD (old minibusses). The new minibusses are 300 AMD back to the Yerevan center.  They run from approximately 0800-2000 daily.

You can also take a taxi to Etchmiadzin.  It will take you only 20 minutes and less than 6 USD (2500 AMD) to take a taxi from Yerevan to Etchmiadzin. Use local online apps like GG, Utaxi, and Yandex.

Click here to view our Yerevan taxi guide .  Also, booking a tour to Etchmiadzin is a great option as it will take the pain of traveling back and forth there!

Why you should visit Etchmiadzin: Also known as the Armenian Vatican, or Holy City, Echmiadizin is actually much older than the Vatican and is the main religious center for all Armenians and many other Christians in the world because the oldest Christian churches can be found there.

The oldest Christian churches in the world date back to the 4th century AD and are situated in the city of Etchmiadzin, the perfect day trip from Yerevan for those who want to see UNESCO World Heritage Sites or a very important religious site.

Etchmiadzin is located 20 minutes away from Yerevan and is actually my hometown where I grew up.

Things to do in Etchmiadzin:  We have previously written an extensive guide of what to do in Etchmiadzin that you can check out.

For the sake of this day trips post, here are some quick places worth nothing in the Holy City.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Etchmiadzin:   There are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Etchmiadzin- Saint Hripsime Church (built-in 395 AD and completed in 618 AD) and the Etchmiadzin Cathedral (built around 301-303AD).

The mind-blowing construction of these churches was amazing considering the typical architectural techniques that were traditionally used around this period.

Other Etchmiadzin Churches:   There are some other, younger churches worth visiting if you’re in the city.

Saint Gayane, Saint Shogakhat, and Saint Mariam Astvatsatsin (Holy Mary) Churches are a few of note.

Zvartnots Cathedral:   On the way to Etchmiadzin, you will pass the entrance and location for Zvartnots Cathedral, ruins dating back to the 7th century.

It was previously demolished by an earthquake and is now protected by UNESCO for its unique, circular construction.

>> Click here for our Etchmiadzin travel guide

How far is Garni from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Garni is 26 kilometers or around 16 miles.  It will take you about 46 minutes to reach by car or taxi due to the landscape.

When is the best time to go to Garni?  The best time to visit Garni is, again, in spring.

Armenia really shines during the springtime and May is such an ideal time to take some day trips from the capital city.

The weather is not too hot (July can be really uncomfortably hot) and the flowers are in full bloom.

How to get from Yerevan to Garni: There are a couple of easy ways to get to Garni. The first is by private car.

The second is to take a taxi (we recommend using GG or Yandex).

The third is by minibus.  And the fourth is to take a tour from Yerevan to Garni .

To take a minibus, you will take #266 from the Nor Nork bus station at 14/3 Gai Avenue next to the Mercedes-Benz shop.

The bus station is located outside of Yerevan center. The ride will take approximately 40 minutes and costs about 250 AMD (about $0.50).  A taxi to Garni is about 3500 AMD (about $7).

Why you should visit Garni:   Garni Temple is truly a unique place in Armenia and probably far beyond it. It’s the only Pagan temple in the region and it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Things to do in Garni:  We have a whole guide about all the wonderful things to do in Garni , but here are a few quick notes about why you should visit and what there is to do there.

Garni village has breathtaking nature with a gorge cut apart by a scenic river surrounded by mountains. The Garni Temple, built-in 1 BC, is located on the edge of the gorge and is idyllic.

The protected facility has a garden and other ruins in addition to the ancient, royal bath which is located next to the Garni Temple because the temple used to be the summer house of Armenian kings.

Down in the gorge, you can see the obscure landscape of basalt columns that is also called the Symphony of Stones.

They look like they were handcrafted in such an unusually symmetrical manner!

On the way to Garni, you will have the opportunity to witness such sights as the Arch of Charents, Azat Reservoir, and Caves of Voghjaberd.  This is one of the essential day trips from Yerevan.

>> Click here for our Garni travel guide

Geghard Monastery

How far is Geghard Monastery from Yerevan? The distance from Yerevan to Geghard is 36 kilometers or around 23 miles.

It will take you about 1 hour to reach by car or taxi due to the landscape.

When is the best time to go to Geghard Monastery?   We are a big fan of visiting Geghard in spring or autumn.  During spring, you will see flowers in bloom and during the autumn you will witness the amazing fall foliage at Geghard.

How to get from Yerevan to Geghard Monastery: The best way to get from Yerevan to Geghard is by taking a taxi.

Using one of the Armenian apps for taxis suggested here, it should cost you around $8 each way (3800 AMD) for a taxi to Geghard.

How to get from Garni to Geghard Monastery: Another option is that you can go directly from Garni to Geghard (they are close to each other).

The ride is about 15 minutes and a taxi will cost about 1800 AMD ($4).

Why you should visit Geghard Monastery:   Geghard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located super close to Garni, so you can visit both sights in a day, easily.

Things to do in Geghard:   The Geghard Monastery is located 15 minutes away from Garni in between breathtaking mountains and at first glance, you might think that is simply an ordinary, ancient church.

However, what makes Geghard Monastery unique and puts it on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list is that this 4th-century monastery is located 70% in the actual rock of the mountain and was built in an era when there were no special building tools.

Visiting Geghard is one of the top Yerevan day trips, particularly for history enthusiasts.  Click here to take a tour to Geghard where you will also get to see Garni for one price!

>> Click here for our Geghard Monastery travel guide

How far is Khor Virap from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Khor Virap is 43 kilometers or around 27 miles.

It will take you about 50 minutes to an hour to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Khor Virap?   The best time to visit Khor Virap is pretty much at any time of the year.

Do be aware that it is cold in the winter and hot in the summer.

There is also a risk that Ararat may not be visible if the skies are hazy on the day you go.

Wait for a day with clear skies and try to go early.

How to get from Yerevan to Khor Virap:   There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Khor Virap . The first is by minibus and the second is via taxi.  Of course, you can also take an organized tour there.

To take the minibus there, you’ll have to find them behind Sasuntsi David Metro Station. There is a big parking lot where the bus with the sign ‘Yerevan – Ararat ‘ will be going to Khor Virap.

There might be other buses that go to Khor Virap, you need to ask around if it is necessary. Please remember that the bus is not going directly to Khor Virap but stopping on the highway at the bus stop.

Tell the driver that you need to stop at that stop he will stop for you then you need to walk approximately 1.5km or pick up a taxi that is waiting there.

The buses are not that frequent, so try to start your journey early in the day. The price is 500 AMD (approximately $1) and they go at around 0900, 1100, and 1400 daily.

A taxi ride to Khor Vorap is really affordable and one of the best options.

The ride will cost approximately 5000 AMD ($10).

One of the best things you can do to take the pain out of organizing a day trip to Khor Virap is to combine it with other destinations in a tour.  This tour takes you to Khor Virap, Areni, and Noravank .

All amazing spots and all on this guide!

Why you should visit Khor Virap:   It truly is one of the iconic symbols of Armenia.

There is nothing more beautiful than this sight on a clear day!

About Khor Virap:   Located approximately one hour away from Yerevan in the village of Pokr Verdi, Khor Virap is the symbol of Armenian Christianity.

In translation, ‘Khor Virap’ means deep dungeon.

This is the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years and released in order to help Christianity become the state religion in Armenia in 301 AC.

>> Click here for our Khor Virap travel guide

The monastery at Khor Virap is located on top of a rock.  It is a 5th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God and it has an epic view of Ararat Mountain.

Things to do in Khor Virap:  There is not much around there aside from the church and some souvenir shopping opportunities.  But, if conditions are right, the image of it all will take your breath away. Khor Virap is surrounded by vineyards and as a result, the region is famous for its great wine.

How far is Dilijan from Yerevan? The distance from Yerevan to Dilijan National Park is 95 kilometers or around 60 miles.

It will take you about 1.5 hours to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Dilijan National Park?   Dilijan is a stunner no matter what time of the year you go, but we recommend visiting Dilijan during the summer.

You will find an abundance of trails there and it is a nice respite from scorching Yerevan.

Alternatively, autumn brings a new array of colors to Dilijan and we can’t help but admire this time of year in Dilijan.

It offers a stunning backdrop to the monasteries, lakes, and charming buildings in the region.

How to get from Yerevan to Dilijan National Park: There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Dilijan.

From Yerevan to Dilijan, you can take regular minibusses from the Northern Bus station which is slightly out of the Yerevan city center.  The price is 1000 AMD ($2) and they go from around 0940-1730 daily.

You can also easily take a taxi to Dilijan.  A taxi ride will cost you approximately 10,000 AMD ($20) and will take only an hour if conditions are good.

This is a great option for those wanting to make a stop at Lake Sevan along the way!

Also, you can book a pretty epic tour to Dilijan combined with Lake Sevan !  It is a great option!

Why you should visit Dilijan National Park: Known as Armenian Switzerland, Dilijan is an eco-paradise with lush, green mountains.

Dilijan is a resort area and one of the popular destinations for locals and visitors.

Things to do in Dilijan National Park: The fauna of Dilijan is truly magical.

You’ll find mountain lakes, wildlife inside of Dilijan National Park, and a cozy city with a mixture of traditional and modern buildings.

The green area also is home to many interesting museums, a Greek-style amphitheater, Armenian hiking opportunities , and much more.

Dilijan is great in any season, but it’s truly magical in the autumn when the forest is covered with mesmerizing colors of foliage.

About 35 minutes away from Dilijan city, through Dilijan National Park, you’ll find Gosh village. This is where it is possible to see the 13-century Goshavank Church which is home to unique khachkars (cross-stones). There are nice little cafes in the area with local food and delights.

How far is Lake Sevan from Yerevan? The distance from Yerevan to Lake Sevan is 60 kilometers or around 37 miles.  It will take you about 1 hour to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Lake Sevan?  The best time to visit Lake Sevan is during the summer, ultimately.

The water is warm enough but the air is refreshing enough to offer a nice getaway from Yerevan.

You can also attend the Sevan International Music Festival.

On the other hand, do consider going to Lake Sevan in the off-season.

Sevan suffers from a lack of tourism during other times of the year and you will help the economy a bit by putting your trip off for an alternative time of the year, especially if swimming in the lake isn’t the priority on your list.

We love Sevan at all times of the year, however.

How to get from Yerevan to Lake Sevan: There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Dilijan.

You can see the options below or read our Getting to Lake Sevan from Yerevan guide.

The minibus from Yerevan to Sevan takes off from the Northern Bus Station and the ride takes around 50 minutes.  Just be sure to ask the drivers.  But, bus #317 goes there.  The price is 500 AMD ($1) and it runs from around 0900-1900 daily.

The train to Sevan is going from Almast Railway Station on weekdays and stops at Sevan Station which is on the opposite side of Sevan Peninsula.

IMPORTANT: Almast Railway Station is permanently closed.

This allows you to discover the Sevan Peninsula and its beauty.

The price is 600 AMD (a little over $1) and it goes once daily at 0830.

The most comfortable option for getting to Sevan is to take a taxi. It will cost approximately 10,000 AMD ($20).

Also, another comfortable option is this amazing private tour that combines Lake Sevan with Dilijan .

Why you should visit Lake Sevan:  Beautiful Sevan Lake is the biggest lake in the Caucasus and is considered to be one of the largest freshwater, alpine lakes in Eurasia and is located at a high altitude.

Things to do in Lake Sevan:  The calm waters of the lake make it the perfect place to visit in the summer to escape the city heat.  It also gives you the chance to discover the area where is possible to visit Sevan Peninsula.

On the Sevan Peninsula, there are two ancient churches with an observation point from where visitors can see a panorama of Lake Sevan which is surrounded by the Geghama Mountains.

During the golden hour, the panorama is mindblowing!

There are also other things that put Sevan on a map besides beaches, ancient churches, and nature.

The freshwater lake is teeming with life and it would be remiss of you to not indulge in a crawfish BBQ when visiting Lake Sevan!

Around Sevan, you will find other cool sights like Noratus Cemetery and the lovely city of Gavar , one of our recommended day trips from Yerevan if you’re keen to explore somewhere off the path.

>> Click here to view our Lake Sevan travel guide

How far is Noravank from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Noravank is 118 kilometers or around 74 miles.  It will take you about 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Noravank?   The best time to travel to Noravank is during the spring or autumn. This area can get quite hot during the summers and can be a bit dusty.

However, there is no bad time to visit Noravank.  A trip to Noravank is best combined with one to Areni.

How to get from Yerevan to Noravank:  The best way to visit Noravank is by joining an organized tour .  Alternatively, you can take a taxi and it will cost you around 12,500 ($25) one way.

Getting to Noravank by minibus is actually not the most efficient way to get there.  In order to do this, you will need to take one to Yeghegnadzor and then switch over from there.  To read more about this option, go to the next section as we cover it with Areni.

Why you should visit Noravank:   Surrounded by otherworldy, red-colored mountains, Noravank is considered one of the more interesting and unique sights in Armenia and the drive to it is worth going for itself.

Things to see in Noravank:   The sight is located a couple of hours away from Yerevan.

To get there, you will pass the Areni wine region and drive through a narrow gorge where the flowing Amaghu River will reach and lead you to Noravank.

It is almost like a secret place that is surrounded by dramatic red-colored rocks.

Next to the rocks, you will find two churches- the Surb Karapet Church and St. Astvatsatsin Church that were erected in the 13th and 14th centuries.

The ornaments on these churches are masterpieces coming from ancient times and the triangle stairs on two-story St. Astvatsatsin Church are definitely something to do when you’re there.

Unless you’re Megan… she is scared of heights and attempted anyway.

>> Click here for our Noravank Monastery travel guide

How far is Areni from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Areni is 110 kilometers or around 68 miles.

It will take you about 2 hours and 5 minutes to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Areni?   We think that the best time to visit Areni is in autumn.

The temperatures are more tolerable and the Areni Wine Festival is in October, making it the ideal time to travel there!

How to get from Yerevan to Areni: There are a few ways to get to Areni.

The most practical is by tour or with a taxi, but they are definitely not the cheapest options.

Areni and Noravank are close to each other and on the way to Yeghegnadzor city.

You will find minbuses going to Yeghegnadzor from Yerevan.

It is necessary to go to the Gortsaranayin Metro Station and you will find minibuses and shared taxis to Yeghegnadzor.

After exiting the metro station, you need to turn right and go all the way until the end of the road. Then cross the road, go left, and cross it again by going right… you will then see minibusses.

The minibus will stop next to Areni village and the junction of Noravank. There is an 8-kilometer walk to Noravank, so we advise you to take a taxi from there.

The price is 1200 AMD (less than $3) and they run between 0800 and 1800 (but be there before 1100). As suggested above with Noravank, taking a taxi is also an option.

The price is around 13500-15000 AMD (about $27-$30)

Why you should visit Areni:   Armenia is not only a church!  We are also home to the oldest known winery in the world.

That winery was located in Areni and now it has become our most famous wine region despite being 6100 years old!

Things to do in Areni: The meaning and role of wine in Armenian history and religion is really monumental and it was widely used in Armenia before Christianity when the country was Pagan.

The Areni region dates back to ancient times and has always produced wine.

Armenia was always famous for wine, but brandy overshadowed the beverage in recent years. But, it is making a comeback these days!

What also puts Areni on a map and makes it one of the visitable locations in Armenia is the Areni Wine Festival which is happening annually at the beginning of October.

More than 100 types of wines from different small and large winemaking companies and family businesses are displayed during the festival and the whole event is covered with positive vibes with music and BBQ ever-present.

Tsaghkadzor

How far is Tsaghkadzor from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Tsaghkadzor is 56 kilometers or around 35 miles.  It will take you about 1 hour to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Tsaghkadzor?   Well, if you’re into skiing, then the winter is the absolute best time to visit Tsaghkadzor. Do keep in mind that it is the high season so things will be slightly pricier.

How to get from Yerevan to Tsaghkadzor:   There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Tsaghkadzor.

The first is by minibus and it’s a bit tricky to get to Tsaghkadzor because you need to change two modes of transport to get there.

To get to Tsaghkadzor, you need to take a minibus from the intersection of Azatutyun Avenue and Nersisyan Street.

This will take you to Hrazdan city.

That price is 500 AMD.  From there, you’ll take a minibus for 100 AMD to Tsaghkadzor.

The best option is to take a taxi to Tsaghkadzor. It’s easy, comfortable, and cheap… and the ride will take you only 40 minutes and cost approximately 6000 AMD ($12).

Why you should visit Tsaghkadzor:   Translated from Armenian, the ‘gorge of flowers’ Tsaghkadzor is not really known for its flowers as much as it is for its skiing and winter sports.  It is the premier place to go downhill skiing in Armenia .

Things to do in Tsaghkadzor:   Located 40 minutes away from Yerevan, the resort town welcomes guests all year round. During the summer, Tsaghkadzor is the perfect place for hiking and mountain biking.

The newly renovated park on the hill has a variety of activities from ziplining to green space and more.

In winter, the mountain ropeway will take you to multiple bases, having skiing stations up the mountains.  This is where my “wise” partner Megan once wore transparent tights when the temperature was -10C.

Every base and ski station has cafes, restaurants, and plenty to do!  So, definitely add Tsaghkadzor as the ultimate Yerevan day trip for those excited about winter in Armenia !

>> Click here to view our Tsaghkadzor travel guide

How far is Arzni from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Arzni is 18 kilometers or around 11 miles.  It will take you about 30 minutes to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Arzni?   We thought Arzni was amazing during autumn, but it was also very quiet then. We recommend spring, summer, or autumn to visit Arzni.

How to get from Yerevan to Arzni:  Aside from a private car, the best way to get to Arzni is by taxi.  No minibusses are heading that way.  A taxi is 2000 AMD to Arzni (about $4).

Why you should visit Arzni:   Located only 30 minutes away from Yerevan, Arzni is another spa area with healthy mineral water sources, wellness centers, and beautiful green landscapes.

Things to do in Arzni:   Arzni Gorge is one of the most beloved places for locals and visitors to have picnics with friends and family members because the whole area is full of resorts.  Armenians will flock here to have a BBQ and the entire place will smell like it!  It is heavenly!

The gorge is also popular for hiking along the Hrazdan River.

Ara Village (Kotyk Region) for Nairian Tour

There is a very interesting opportunity to take an eco-tour to the factory of Nairian natural cosmetics.

Located in the Kotayk region near Ara Mountain, Nairian Cosmetics produces eco-friendly and clean natural products for skin, hair, and the body.

Their products’ bases come from the Armenian highlands and mountains where the volcanic minerals offer a richness unlike anywhere else on the planet.

The knowledgeable tour will take you to the charming Ara village where the Nairian eco-factory is located. You will learn and see how natural cosmetics get made and you’ll have the opportunity to touch and smell the plants used in the creation of them.

Also, you’ll have a chance to relax with organic, homemade tea from local herbs and enjoy your connection with Armenian nature.

Click here to learn more about an eco-tour at Nairian .

How far is Byurakan from Yerevan?   The distance from Yerevan to Byurakan is 34 kilometers or around 21 miles.  It will take you about 40 minutes to reach by car or taxi.

When is the best time to go to Byurakan?   Summer is the best time to visit Byurakan.  Due to its elevation, it is not too hot and it is a great launchpad for hikes to Aragats Mountain.

How to get from Yerevan to Byurakan:   There are a couple of ways to get from Yerevan to Byurakan.

Minibusses go to Byurakan from the Kilikia Bus Station many times daily.  The ride takes about one hour.  The price is 400 AMD (less than $1) and it runs daily between 1030-1950.

Alternatively, you can also take a taxi.  The price is around 3500 AMD ($5).

Why you should visit Byurakan:   Byurakan is a very interesting, albeit obscure place that is located about 40 minutes away from Yerevan. The area is famous because it’s the home of astronomy in Armenia and there are several impressive observation centers with massive telescopes that were built in the Soviet Union and are still working today.

Things to do in Byurakan:   If you’re looking for a ‘different’ Yerevan day trip, Byurakan offers something that isn’t a monastery or nature (although it does have some sick nature).  It is also only around 5 kilometers away from Aragats Mountain hiking trails.

Aside from that, Byuraken is a little lovely village with hospitable locals and beautiful scenery.

Where to Stay in Yerevan

Yerevan center is lovely and staying there is essential if you’re looking to attend the Yerevan Wine Days festival.  There are a few hotels, guesthouses, and hostels that we recommend depending on the budget you’re traveling with.

The Alexander (Splurge):   For those looking to be spoiled with luxury,  The Alexander  is one of Armenia’s finest hotels that offers class and luxury to visitors.  It is located near Northern Avenue and Republic Square and is a short walk away from Yerevan Wine Days on Saryan Street.

>>  Click here to check rates and availability for The Alexander

Daniel Boutique Hotel (Mid-range):   Located in the center of the city,  Daniel Boutique Hotel  offers affordable accommodation with lovely and cozy rooms for you and your family. The hotel has all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay in the pink capital.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Daniel Boutique Hotel

Grand Hostel Yerevan (Budget):   Located 10 minutes away from Republic Square is  Grand Hostel Yerevan . It’s a paradise for the budget traveler because you can get spacious, affordable, and clean rooms at whether you want a private or a dorm.

>>  Click here to check rates and availability for Grand Hostel Yerevan

This was quite the long Yerevan day tours guide and we hope that you have found something suitable to your travel desires!  If you have any questions or suggestions for Yerevan day trips, please reach out to us.  These are just some of the most popular ones… there are hundreds of others you could go on!

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1 thoughts on “ 12 Popular Day Trips from Yerevan That You’ll Absolutely Love ”

Hello! I just read your article on “Day Trips from Yerevan,” and I must say, it’s a fantastic guide for exploring the fascinating destinations surrounding Armenia’s capital city. Your selection of day trips covers a diverse range of experiences, from historical landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders.

I appreciate how you provided detailed information about each day trip, including the highlights, activities, and practical tips. It’s evident that you have a deep knowledge of the region and want your readers to have the best possible experience during their day trips from Yerevan.

The photographs you included are absolutely stunning and give a visual glimpse of the beauty and allure of each destination. They truly complement your writing and make me want to pack my bags and explore these places right away.

I also like how you’ve considered different interests and preferences in your selection of day trips. Whether someone is a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, there’s a day trip that caters to their passions.

Thank you for sharing these amazing day trip ideas with us. Your article is a valuable resource for anyone visiting Yerevan and looking to venture beyond the city to discover the hidden gems of Armenia. Keep up the fantastic work on your blog, and I’m looking forward to more travel inspiration from you. Happy travels!

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