Yerevan offers more than just its vibrant streets and historic sites — it’s a city where food and culture come together beautifully. For those looking to enjoy authentic Armenian cuisine, the Full Day Guided Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi with Homemade Lunch is a standout. This tour mixes cultural exploration with a delicious family-hosted BBQ, making it a memorable way to taste local flavors while discovering Armenia’s UNESCO-listed treasures. We particularly love this tour for its combination of scenic drives, historical visits, and a hearty homemade meal that feels like visiting an old friend’s house.
Another excellent option is the Yerevan: Wine and Archaeology Tour with Lunch, which centers on Armenia’s deep-rooted winemaking traditions and archaeological treasures. If you’re interested in the story of wine from ancient times to today, this tour offers a rich narrative paired with tastings and a local lunch, perfect for culture and food lovers alike.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at these two top lunch experiences, highlighting what makes each special and helping you decide which one suits your travel style best.
1. Full Day Guided Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi with Homemade Lunch
For around $99 per person, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines scenic drives, UNESCO sites, and a genuine Armenian home-cooked meal. The tour begins early in Yerevan and heads north through beautiful landscapes toward Tbilisi, with several notable stops along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded itinerary. You’ll enjoy freshly baked pastries from a local bakery in Aparan before heading to Gntunik, an area that’s perfect for stretching your legs. The highlight is visiting two UNESCO World Heritage sites — Sanahin Monastery, built in 966 AD, and Haghpat Monastery, set in the Debed Canyon. These sites aren’t just visually stunning; they offer a glimpse into Armenia’s medieval religious culture and architecture.
The tour’s culinary highlight is the traditional Armenian BBQ lunch hosted by a local family, giving you a taste of authentic homecooked flavors. The guide shares stories and insights into Armenia’s history, adding depth to your visit. With a total duration of about 11 to 12 hours, it’s a full day but packed with value.
This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone eager for a full immersion experience that combines sightseeing with genuine Armenian hospitality. The reviews praise its smooth organization and delicious meal, making it a top pick.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a comprehensive, culturally rich day trip with a delicious homemade lunch included.
2. Yerevan: Wine and Archaeology Tour with Lunch
Spending four hours exploring Armenia’s ancient wine traditions, this wine and archaeology tour is perfect for those wanting a more relaxed and focused experience. The tour includes visits to the History Museum of Armenia, where you’ll see ancient wine vessels and ceramics, and a carefully curated local restaurant for lunch and tastings.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on Armenia’s Neolithic winemaking history. You’ll learn how Armenia is believed to be one of the world’s first wine-producing regions, with origins dating back thousands of years. The guide’s storytelling about the evolution of Armenian wine adds a fascinating layer to your experience.
During the tour, you taste a variety of wines, including rosé, white, red, and karas wines — each with its own story and flavor profile. The included lunch complements the wines perfectly, offering a local meal that pairs well with your tastings. This is a more intimate and educational experience, especially suitable for wine enthusiasts and archaeology lovers.
While shorter in duration, guests appreciate the depth of information and the opportunity to sample genuine Armenian wines without leaving the city. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a great way to see Armenia’s rich past through its wine and artifacts.”
Bottom line: An ideal pick for travelers interested in Armenia’s ancient wine culture and archaeology, with a relaxed pace and authentic tastings.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Yerevan
Choosing between these tours depends on your time, interests, and what kind of experience you seek. If you’re eager to explore Armenia’s historical sites while enjoying a hearty homemade meal, the Full Day Guided Tour to Tbilisi offers a rewarding, full-day adventure. This is perfect if you’re also considering a trip to Georgia or want a comprehensive cultural experience.
For those more interested in Armenia’s wine history and archaeological treasures, the Wine and Archaeology Tour provides a focused, engaging introduction without leaving Yerevan. It’s well-suited for wine lovers, history buffs, and anyone short on time but eager to learn.
When booking, consider the best time to go, as spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor visits and tastings. Both tours include meals and tastings, so factor your budget and schedule into your choice.
Final Thoughts
Yerevan’s lunch experiences run the gamut from full-day tours with historical and scenic highlights to shorter, wine-focused explorations. The Full Day Guided Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi excels if you want a comprehensive day trip packed with UNESCO sites and a home-cooked Armenian feast. Meanwhile, the Wine and Archaeology Tour appeals to those who prefer a city-based, educational experience centered around Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions.
Both tours offer authentic experiences and good value for their prices. If you’re staying in Yerevan and have limited time, the shorter wine tour might be more practical. But if you crave a full immersion into Armenia’s culture, history, and cuisine, the day trip to Tbilisi provides a memorable adventure.
Whatever your preference, booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these highly-rated experiences. Enjoy your culinary journey in Armenia — it’s as flavorful as it is unforgettable.