Armenia Sightseeing Tour with Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience

Exploring the Armenia Sightseeing Tour with Cheese and Wine Tasting

If you’re considering a day exploring Armenia’s beautiful landscapes, ancient landmarks, and enjoying local delicacies, this Armenia Sightseeing Tour with Cheese and Wine Tasting might just tick those boxes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve studied it closely, and from what I can tell, it offers a well-rounded experience that balances cultural sights, breathtaking scenery, and tasty treats—all in a flexible, private format.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines iconic sights like Lake Sevan and Noravank with more unique stops like Mikayelyan Family Farm and the Selim Caravanserai. Plus, the inclusion of cheese and wine tasting adds a memorable flavor to the day. On the flip side, be aware that it’s a full-day tour, which might be tiring if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at Armenia’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially good for those interested in history, stunning mountain views, and local food and drink. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized, guided experience will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience: Only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized touch.
• Diverse stops: From ancient churches to scenic mountain passes, the itinerary covers a lot of ground.
• Cultural and culinary highlights: Cheese and wine tasting at a family farm adds a delicious, authentic element.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of Lake Sevan, high mountain passes, and iconic landmarks.
• Flexible timing and pickup: The tour includes convenient pickup and a day-long schedule, suited for those wanting a full immersion.
• Good value: With a cost of $95 for up to three people, the experience provides a lot for its price.

Starting the Day: From Yerevan to Lake Sevan

The adventure begins early in the morning, with pickup arranged from your hotel—convenience that takes one thing off your mind. As you drive away from Yerevan, you’ll immediately notice the sense of history and movement, with the route tracing a path along what was once the ancient Silk Road.

Our first stop is Hayravank Church, set right on the shores of Lake Sevan. The view here is spectacular—think bright blue water contrasted against rugged mountains. The church itself is small but steeped in history, and the peaceful setting makes it a perfect spot to soak in the scenery or snap some photos. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, so don’t expect a lengthy visit, but it’s enough to appreciate the beauty and tranquility.

Next, you’ll head to Noratus Cemetery, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s past with its thousands of Khachkars—the distinctive cross-stones. The sheer number of these carved stones makes for a striking sight, and it’s a quiet, contemplative place. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, enough to wander and marvel at the craftsmanship.

The Cheese and Wine Experience: Mikayelyan Family Farm

One of the highlights of this tour is the stop at Mikayelyan Family Farm. Here, you’ll get a short tour and a chance to hear about the family’s long-standing tradition of cheese-making. The tasting includes over 10 varieties of cheese paired with local wine—a real treat for those who enjoy authentic, farm-fresh flavors. While the cheese tasting isn’t included in the base price, reviews suggest this is a memorable experience, with many travelers praising the variety and quality of the cheeses.

The farm visit offers an intimate look at family-run local businesses, and the tasting itself is a relaxed, friendly affair. Expect to learn about different cheese types and their histories, making it more than just a snack but an educational peek into Armenian culinary traditions.

Traveling Along the Silk Road: Selim Caravanserai

Continuing your journey, you’ll pass through Selim Caravanserai, an ancient rest stop that served traders and travelers along the Silk Road. Sitting high at 2450 meters above sea level, this spot offers excellent views and a real sense of stepping back in time. The caravanserai’s simple, sturdy architecture reflects its purpose as a safe haven for merchants long ago. A quick 30-minute stop allows you to breathe in the mountain air and appreciate the landscape.

Noravank Monastery and Gneishik Canyon

Driving through the Selim Pass, you’ll reach Noravank Monastery, a 13th-century complex perched amid dramatic red cliffs. It’s a favorite among visitors for its striking setting and intricate stone carvings. If luck’s on your side, you might spot local Bezuaryan goats wandering nearby, adding a lively touch to the scenery.

Close by, the Gnishik Canyon offers some of Armenia’s most stunning natural views. The winding roads and rugged cliffs make this a memorable drive. Even if wildlife doesn’t make an appearance, the canyon’s rugged beauty alone is worth the trip.

Wrapping Up at Khor Virap

Finally, your trip concludes at Khor Virap, one of Armenia’s most iconic religious sites, famous for its close-up views of Mount Ararat. Watching the sunset here, with the mountain in the background, is a fitting end to the day—if the weather cooperates. The site is free to explore, and the views are genuinely impressive, especially when the light softens around dusk.

Transportation, Timing, and Value

Throughout the day, you’ll be riding in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, which makes the long drives comfortable and keeps you connected. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing. The private setup means your group gets personalized attention, and the small group size (up to 3 people) ensures flexibility with timing and stops.

At $95 for a group of up to three, the price seems reasonable considering the number of stops, the guide’s local knowledge, and the included comfort of transportation. What’s especially good is that the tour is a private activity, so you’re not in a large, noisy bus—more like a tailored day with your own guide.

From Reviews to Real Experience

One reviewer sums it up well: “Great tour. Not the first time I’ve turned to a guide. Always happy with the result! Excellent program, beautiful places, amenities, and experienced drivers-guides, service at a premium.” That kind of feedback suggests the guides know their stuff and aim for quality.

Another reviewer highlighted the “fantastic views” and “excellent amenities,” which really aligns with what the tour promises. The stops at historic sites combined with modern comforts make for a well-rounded day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Armenia without the stress of planning. It suits those interested in history, scenic drives, and local food and drink—especially if you enjoy tasting regional specialties like cheese and wine. The private format also makes it ideal for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience.

However, it’s a full-day tour, so travelers who prefer a slower, more relaxed pace might find it a bit packed. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to bring snacks or plan for a meal during the trip.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a meaningful, scenic, and sensory-rich day in Armenia, this tour provides a solid balance of everything. From the stunning vistas around Lake Sevan and the historic sites of Noravank to the culinary delights at Mikayelyan Farm, it offers a taste of Armenia’s natural beauty, history, and flavors.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the private nature and the variety of stops make it a good value. Expect breathtaking views, expert guidance, and a genuine experience that celebrates Armenia’s heritage and landscape.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want to see the highlights while indulging in local tastes. It’s best for those who enjoy a full day of discovery, don’t mind some driving, and appreciate well-organized, small-group adventures.

FAQs

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi on board for the entire day.

What is included in the price?
Bottled water, private transportation, and pickup are included. However, lunch and all fees or taxes are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day activity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves several stops at sites that might include walking or uneven terrain, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

Will I get to see Mount Ararat?
While you won’t climb it, the final stop at Khor Virap offers incredible views of Mount Ararat, especially at sunset.

Overall, if you’re after a well-rounded Armenia experience with personalized touches, this tour has a lot to offer. Just be ready for a day packed with sights, tastes, and memorable views.