Things to do in

Akhtala

Start your tour at the Akhtala Monastery, a church from the 12th century which contains beautiful frescoes and is surrounded by copper smelting caves as well as a copper smelting factory. The second destination of the tour is the Haghpat Monastery, which is located in Haghpat Village and is a UNESCO-listed site. It is one of the most beautiful medieval masterpieces in Armenia, and one can't help but think that God's hand played a part in building such an incredible construction. You will then have the possibility to have lunch and try some traditional Armenian food. Following lunch, you'll make 3 stops on your way to visit the second UNESCO Heritage Site, Sanahin. The first will be a 13th-century bridge, the second for a Debed canyon with astonishing views, and the third for the Mikoyan Brothers' museum, where an original aircraft (MiG 21) will surprise you. You will finally travel back through the border to Tbilisi, where you will arrive at approximately 8:30 PM.

Start your day trip at 9:00 AM with a hotel pickup. Drive for approximately 40 minutes and reach the Georgian-Armenian border. After processing through customs, your exploration of Armenia begins. Meet your local Armenian guide and head to the first landmark, Akhtala Monastery. See its famous precious frescoes and admire the gorgeous landscape that surrounds the historic building. After visiting the Akhtala Monastery, visit another old religious building said to be constructed between the 5th and 7th-centuries. Discover the Basilica Odzun and after marveling at its impressive architecture, continue on to the next stop. Along the way be stunned by mesmerizing landscapes that dramatically change from one kilometer to the next. After a short drive, arrive at the monastic complex of Haghpat and Sanahin, which were historically renowned for their school of illuminators and calligraphers. In Haghpat, stop for lunch at a local restaurant and experience true Armenian hospitality. Taste traditional khorovats (barbecue) paired with homemade fruit vodka. After a day of exploring Armenia, return back to your hotel in Tbilisi.