About This Tour
Armenia in December is a truly special experience: snow-covered mountains, the evening lights of Yerevan, the aroma of fresh lavash, hot coffee and mulled wine, cozy restaurants, festive markets, and ancient monasteries set against beautiful winter landscapes.
This tour is designed for those who want to experience the approach of the New Year in an authentically Armenian way, combining an introduction to the country’s history and culture with winter walks, gastronomic experiences, and a genuine festive atmosphere.
Itinerary
DAY 1. WELCOME TO YEREVAN — THE FESTIVE LIGHTS OF THE CAPITAL
Arrival in Yerevan. Meeting at the airport and transfer to the hotel.
After check-in and a short rest, enjoy your first walk through festive Yerevan.
In December, the capital takes on a special atmosphere: the central streets and squares are decorated with festive lights, shop windows are filled with New Year’s decorations, and the city becomes especially cozy after dark.
We begin our introduction to Yerevan at Republic Square, the city’s main square, surrounded by iconic buildings made of famous pink tuff stone. Here, you can experience the true pre-New Year atmosphere of the capital and take your first photos against the festive decorations.
The walk continues along the central streets of Yerevan, passing through Northern Avenue towards Freedom Square and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks — the Cascade.
Climbing the Cascade offers beautiful panoramic views of evening Yerevan. On a clear day, you may also be able to see the silhouette of Mount Ararat in the distance.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a restaurant featuring traditional Armenian cuisine.
Overnight in Yerevan.
DAY 2. YEREVAN — GARNI — GEGHARD — “SYMPHONY OF STONES”
After breakfast, depart for the Kotayk Province.
The first stop is Geghard Monastery, one of the most impressive medieval monuments of Armenia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery’s churches and chambers are partially carved directly into the surrounding rock, creating an especially striking atmosphere in winter.
Next, visit the Temple of Garni, a unique monument dating back to the ancient era. Built in the 1st century AD, it stands above the picturesque Azat River Gorge and is the only surviving pagan temple with a classical colonnade in Armenia.
Then, enjoy a walk to the natural monument known as the “Symphony of Stones.” The enormous basalt columns, resembling the pipes of a giant organ, form a remarkable natural landscape.
Lunch at a local restaurant, with an opportunity to discover traditional Armenian cuisine and take part in a lavash-making master class.
Return to Yerevan.
In the evening, enjoy free time to explore the festive city independently. You may visit the New Year’s market, shop for souvenirs, taste local sweets, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of Yerevan in the evening.
Overnight in Yerevan.
DAY 3. TSAGHKADZOR — LAKE SEVAN — ARMENIA’S WINTER LANDSCAPES
Today, we set off to discover Armenia’s winter wonderland and majestic mountains.
We travel to Tsaghkadzor, a popular mountain resort surrounded by forests and snow-covered peaks.
Visit Kecharis Monastery, a medieval architectural complex dating from the 11th–13th centuries. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time in Tsaghkadzor. Weather permitting, and if desired, you can take the cable car up into the mountains to admire breathtaking winter panoramas.
Next, we continue to Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes. In winter, Sevan is especially impressive, with its rugged mountain scenery, crisp, clear air, and deep blue waters creating a truly unique atmosphere.
Visit Sevanavank Monastery, situated on a peninsula overlooking the lake.
Enjoy lunch with an opportunity to taste the famous Sevan fish and other traditional Armenian dishes.
Return to Yerevan.
In the evening, enjoy free time for holiday shopping and a stroll through the festively decorated city center.
Overnight in Yerevan.
DAY 4. ETCHMIADZIN — ZVARTNOTS — ARMENIAN CUISINE AND TRADITIONS
After breakfast, depart for Vagharshapat, the spiritual center of Armenia.
Visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the main symbols of Armenian Christianity and one of the country’s most important religious centers.
Continue to Saint Hripsime Church and Saint Gayane Church, outstanding examples of 7th-century Armenian architecture.
The excursion continues with a visit to the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, a monumental 7th-century structure once considered one of the architectural wonders of its time.
Return to Yerevan.
In the afternoon, enjoy an introduction to Armenian culinary traditions. A tasting of local products, wines, and traditional sweets can be arranged.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a cozy restaurant serving traditional Armenian cuisine.
The festive evening can conclude with a stroll through central Yerevan, enjoying the city lights, music, and magical pre-New Year atmosphere.
Overnight in Yerevan.
DAY 5. YEREVAN — SEE YOU!
Breakfast at the hotel.
Depending on your flight departure time, enjoy some free time for a final stroll around Yerevan and souvenir shopping.
You can visit local shops to purchase Armenian chocolate, dried fruits, spices, wine, brandy, and traditional gifts for friends and family.
Transfer to Zvartnots International Airport.
Goodbye, Armenia!
May the memories of snow-covered mountains, warm Armenian hospitality, the evening lights of Yerevan, and the aroma of freshly baked lavash become your first wonderful memories of the upcoming New Year
Included in Price
- Accommodation in 4-star hotels;
- Transfers according to the itinerary, including airport–hotel–airport transfers;
- Services of a professional guide;
- Entrance tickets;
- Lavash-making master class;
- Welcome dinner;
- Farewell dinner.
