Private Day Trip to Symphony of Stones-Garni-Geghard & Lake Sevan

Exploring Armenia in a Day: A Practical Review of the Private Symphony of Stones, Garni, Geghard & Lake Sevan Tour

If you’re planning to make the most of a single day in Armenia, this private tour covering the Symphony of Stones, Garni, Geghard, and Lake Sevan promises a well-rounded experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to see key highlights without rushing or feeling overwhelmed, thanks to a comfortable, private vehicle and flexible stops.
What we really like about this tour are two things: first, the stunning scenery and diverse attractions packed into one day, and second, the personalized experience that a private tour provides, including the convenience of pickup and drop-off.
However, one potential downside is that the itinerary feels quite packed, which might leave little room for lingering longer in any one place, especially if you’re a slow walker or love a deep dive.
This experience suits travelers who are curious about Armenia’s cultural and natural gems, and who prefer a tailored, relaxed-paced day rather than a crowded group tour.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring flexibility and comfort.
• Spectacular Views: Stops like Charents Arch and Lake Sevan offer unforgettable scenery, perfect for photos.
• Cultural Highlights: The UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery and the ancient Garni Temple provide a glimpse into Armenia’s spiritual past.
• Natural Wonders: The Symphony of Stones and Lake Sevan showcase Armenia’s impressive landscapes.
• Comfortable Transport: New, air-conditioned vehicles with Wi-Fi make the journey enjoyable.
• Value for Money: At around $81 per person, you get a full day of diverse experiences with hotel pickup included.

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect on This Armenia Day Trip

This private tour from Yerevan is your chance to tick off several of Armenia’s must-see sights in just one day, without the stress of navigating public transport or crowded groups. It’s convenient, flexible, and tailored—ideal if you prefer a more exclusive experience. Let’s walk through what you’ll encounter on the day.

Starting Point: Charents Arch and Mount Ararat Views

The journey begins with a visit to Charents Arch, a viewpoint that provides sweeping vistas of Mount Ararat. This stop is usually brief—around 30 minutes—but it’s well worth it. As one traveler put it, “the most beautiful view of Mount Ararat” makes for a perfect photo op and offers a peaceful start to your day. Because admission is free, you can simply soak in the scenery without extra costs.

Geghard Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, you’ll visit the Geghard Monastery, founded in the 4th century around a sacred spring. The current structures date from the 13th century and are carved into the rock, blending seamlessly with the canyon’s natural cliffs. This site’s rugged beauty and spiritual significance make it a highlight.
As one reviewer noted, “The Geghard Monastery was very interesting,” and the setting, surrounded by precipitous cliffs, really enhances the experience. Expect to spend about 1 hour 30 minutes here, which is enough to explore and absorb the tranquil atmosphere.

Garni Temple: The Only Preserved Pagan Temple in the Caucasus

Moving on, the Garni Temple, built in the 1st century, is dedicated to the Sun God. It’s the only surviving pagan temple in the Caucasus and offers a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s pre-Christian past.
After Christianization, the temple was used as a royal residence, which adds historical layers to what you see today. The temple’s impressive columns and scenic surroundings make it a popular photo stop. The entrance fee is around 1500 AMD, so budget accordingly.
A visitor described Garni as “very impressive,” especially if you enjoy seeing ancient architecture and imagining its past grandeur.

Symphony of Stones: Nature’s Masterpiece

One of Armenia’s most unique natural attractions, the Symphony of Stones, is a marvel of natural rock formations. This protected monument provides a dramatic landscape that’s perfect for photos and reflection.
While admission isn’t included (around 300 AMD), the scenery justifies the visit. Travelers often mention how impressive this site is, with one saying it’s “a must-see place of Armenia.” It’s a brief stop—about 45 minutes—but it leaves a lasting impression.

Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery

The tour culminates at Lake Sevan, often called the “pearl of Armenia.” At 2,000 meters above sea level, it’s the second-highest freshwater lake in the world, covering roughly 5% of Armenia’s surface.
You’ll visit Sevanavank Monastery, built in the 9th century on a peninsula that was once an island. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
This stop lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing enough time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. As one reviewer shared, “From the peninsula, there is a beautiful view of Lake Sevan,” which is truly a highlight of the trip.

Transport and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which saves you the hassle of finding your way to the starting point. The vehicle is described as new, clean, and equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride through Armenia’s scenic routes.
Travelers like Sally mentioned, “This was a really comfortable trip in a new car with air conditioning and seat belts,” highlighting how important comfort is when covering several sites in one day.

Timing-wise, the whole trip lasts around 5 to 6 hours, so expect a packed but manageable day. The stops are spaced out well, balancing sightseeing and travel time.

What about costs?

The tour costs about $80.95 per person, which, considering the private nature, transportation, and access to major sites, offers decent value. The entrance fees for Garni (~1500 AMD) and Symphony of Stones (~300 AMD) are not included but are reasonably priced.
You might find that paying a little extra for optional lunch (not included) could enhance your experience, especially if you want to try local cuisine.

What previous travelers say

The consistent praise from reviews emphasizes the stunning views and friendly driver. Sally noted, “The driver was a safe driver and the sights were great,” while Kostakis appreciated the flexibility to stop for photos and the overall quality of the vehicle.
One traveler, Sara, pointed out that the tour might benefit from including a dedicated lunch hour, which is a good tip if you’re hungry or want to relax somewhere longer.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Armenia day trip is ideal for travelers who want an intimate, flexible day of sightseeing with a focus on scenic and cultural highlights. It suits those who prefer a relaxed pace over a hectic group bus tour, and who value comfort and convenience.
If you’re interested in history, natural beauty, and photography, this tour offers a well-rounded overview. It’s also suitable for those who want to avoid the crowds, since it’s tailored to your group only.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a great way to experience Armenia’s top sights without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. The combination of natural wonders, ancient monasteries, and cultural sites gives a full picture of what the country has to offer, all within a manageable timeframe.

The strengths lie in the personalized service, the scenic stops, and the comfort of a private vehicle. The price is reasonable considering the inclusions, especially when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
If you’re looking for a day that balances sightseeing, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights, this trip is definitely worth considering. Just be ready for a full day, and perhaps bring snacks or plan for a quick lunch on your own, since it’s not included.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, as the itinerary is designed to be accessible and not overly strenuous. However, if you have mobility issues, check the specific sites’ accessibility.

Does the tour include lunch?
Lunch is optional and not included in the price. You might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal on your own during the day.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Garni (1500 AMD) and the Symphony of Stones (300 AMD) are paid separately.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A new, comfortable vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, ensuring a relaxed journey.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to request additional time at certain sites or possibly add stops if feasible.

Is pickup from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 31 days in advance, which is recommended to secure your preferred date.

What do previous travelers think?
Reviews unanimously praise the scenic views, the professionalism of the driver, and the overall value. Some suggest including a lunch break for a more relaxed experience.

If Armenia’s natural beauty, history, and charming landscapes appeal to you, this private tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see many of the highlights in one go. It’s a solid choice whether you’re visiting for the first time or want a comfortable, personalized trip that takes the guesswork out of planning.