Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch

If you’re in Tbilisi and dreaming of a glimpse into Armenia’s historic charm, this day trip from Gamarjoba Georgia Tours might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a full day of exploring ancient monasteries, enjoying authentic Armenian food, and soaking in breathtaking mountain scenery—all without needing to plan a multi-day journey yourself.

What immediately caught our attention is the focus on UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries—plus the opportunity to taste homemade Armenian cuisine in a local family home. The tour’s affordable price of $79 per person makes it a compelling option for travelers wanting a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank.

However, a key consideration is the long travel time—roughly 12 hours total—which might feel a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to extended day trips. It’s best suited for those with an interest in history and culture, and who enjoy comfortable, guided excursions rather than spontaneous adventures.

Overall, if you’re after an immersive, hassle-free way to see Armenia’s iconic sights and enjoy delicious local food, this tour might just be the ideal match. Just be prepared for a full day and some scenic driving.

Key Points

• Ideal for culture and history enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive glimpse of Armenian heritage in one day.
• Includes visits to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing a deep dive into Armenia’s medieval architecture.
• Comfortable private transportation makes the long drive manageable and relaxed.
• A homemade lunch with a local family adds a personal and authentic touch to the experience.
• Highlights include stunning mountain views and ancient monasteries, perfect for landscape and history lovers.
• Good value for money given the numerous sites, meals, and guided insights included in the price.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting early in the morning, you’ll meet your guide outside the Avlabari metro station in Tbilisi and then board a comfortable private vehicle heading towards Armenia. The journey lasts around 12 hours, but the stops and sights make every minute worth it. From the start, it’s clear this tour is designed for travelers who love exploring cultural landmarks in a relaxed setting.

Crossing the Border

The trip kicks off with a smooth border crossing, praised by travelers like Adam F, who noted, “Deme, our guide, was awesome. He made crossing the border very easy.” The process can sometimes be a bit lengthy, but the guides seem well-prepared to handle it efficiently.

Akhtala Monastery

Your first stop is Akhtala Monastery, dating back to the 13th century. Known for its beautiful frescoes, the site is surrounded by historic copper smelting caves and a fortress. Visitors like Mauricio A loved it: “What an amazing guy, always able to go the extra mile to make sure the day was perfect. Explaining everything and sharing history.” Expect to spend around 45 minutes soaking in the serenity and intricate artwork of this site.

Haghpat Monastery

Next, you’ll visit Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO site perched in a scenic mountain setting. It’s often described as one of Armenia’s most captivating medieval structures, with stunning views and impressive architecture. Chong W mentions, “The vibes for the tour was very nice because Mariam, our guide, made everything fun and interesting.” You’ll have about an hour here to wander and take photos.

Homemade Armenian Lunch

Midday, the tour takes a personal turn with a lunch at a local family’s home. This is a highlight for many travelers because it offers a chance to experience authentic Armenian hospitality and cuisine. The food is described as delicious and plentiful—an experience echoed by multiple reviewers like Neil J, who said, “The lunch was fabulous, with lots of options, and exceeded expectations.”

Sanahin Monastery and More

In the afternoon, after the lunch break, you’ll visit Sanahin Monastery, another UNESCO site. Known for its 10th-century architecture, it’s said to be one of the most beautiful monasteries in Armenia. As you approach, you’ll also see sights like a 12th-century bridge, Debed Canyon, and the Mikoyan Brothers Museum, which features an original MiG 21 aircraft. Participants like George M praise Deme’s helpfulness and knowledge, noting, “He prepared the group for border crossing and made the day very smooth.”

Final Stops and Scenic Views

If time permits, travelers also enjoy the spectacular views of mountains and the chance to learn about Soviet-era mining at the abandoned mines or enjoy the natural beauty of the river running through the mountains. Nina, a guide noted for her warm personality, enhances the experience by sharing stories and insights along the way, making the long journey both educational and engaging.

Return to Tbilisi

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up back at the starting point, usually around late evening. While it’s a long day, many find the experience worthwhile considering the depth of sights covered and the comfort of the transportation.

The Real Value of This Tour

When you look at the price—$79—you’re getting quite a bit. The inclusion of private transportation, guided commentary, UNESCO sites, and a homemade lunch adds up to excellent value. The reviews repeatedly point out how professionally organized the trip is, with many travelers citing the smooth border crossing and thoughtful itinerary.

The small group size, typically capped at 100 travelers, means you won’t feel lost or rushed, and the guides, like Mariam and Nina, are praised for their knowledge and care, which really enhances the experience. Plus, the stops are carefully curated to give you a balanced taste of Armenia’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is a solid choice for history buffs who want a deep but manageable day of sightseeing. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate authentic food experiences and are comfortable with a full-day trip that includes a significant amount of driving.

While it isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the minimum age is 5, so older kids interested in history and sightseeing will likely enjoy it, especially given the engaging stories and impressive sites. Just keep in mind the long hours and the need for a good level of stamina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Yes, a visa is required in advance for Armenia. Since attending this group tour doesn’t include visa on arrival, make sure to organize yours beforehand.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, guide service, and the homemade lunch at a local family’s house.

Is the tour suitable for non-Georgian citizens?
Yes, most travelers can participate as long as they have the necessary visa for Armenia.

How long is the journey from Tbilisi?
The total trip is approximately 12 hours, including stops and border crossing.

What should I bring?
Don’t forget your passport, as it’s needed for crossing the border. Also, bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera.

Are the sites crowded or busy?
Most reviews suggest visits are manageable, and the guides help keep the groups organized and moving smoothly.

Is there any free time during the tour?
The itinerary is quite packed, but stops like the monasteries and the lunch allow for some personal exploration and photos.

How is the lunch?
Many reviewers praise the homemade Armenian lunch for being tasty, plentiful, and authentic, making it a highlight of the trip.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Tbilisi to Armenia offers a well-rounded experience packed with history, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavors. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a short amount of time without the hassle of planning each detail. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and delicious homemade lunch make it a memorable way to see Armenia’s highlights.

While the long hours may be a challenge for some, many reviewers agree that it’s worth it for the quality of the sites and the personal touches like the family lunch. If you’re curious about Armenia’s monasteries and mountain landscapes and enjoy guided tours, this is a trip worth considering on your Georgian adventure.

Ready to explore Armenia without the hassle? This tour combines cultural richness, scenic beauty, and warm local hospitality, making it a memorable day from start to finish.