Our most recommended things to do in Lori Province

From Tbilisi: Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch

1. From Tbilisi: Day Trip to Armenia Including Homemade Lunch

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, located in Haghpat Village and is a UNESCO-listed site. It is one of the most beautiful medieval masterpieces in Armenia. Then you can 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. Finally, travel back through the border to Tbilisi.

From Tbilisi: Day Trip to Armenia with Homemade Lunch

2. From Tbilisi: Day Trip to Armenia with Homemade Lunch

Visit two of Armenia’s ancient monasteries and the town of Alaverdi on this small group tour from Tbilisi. Cross over the border with your experienced guide who will take you through the highlights of Northern Armenia in just 1 day.   Depart at 9:00 AM sharp for a 1.5-hour trip across the Georgian-Armenian boarder. Almost immediately you’ll start to notice changes in the landscape—the fields will become rocky mountains and the scenery takes on a certain apocalyptic touch, due to the many abandoned Soviet mines and factories. Your first stop is the fortified monastery of Akhtala, where you can marvel at the beautifully preserved frescoes and learn about the thrilling history of this Georgian-Armenian creation.   Then, you’ll reach the UNESCO-listed monastery complex of Haghpat, where you’ll learn about the Armenian stone crosses and the mystical poet Sayat-Nova. A local family welcomes you for a traditional Armenian lunch in their house near the Haghpat monastery. After that continue to the monastery of Odzun - a beautiful complex from V century. Arrive back in Tbilisi by around 6:00 PM after a full and fascinating day.

From Tbilisi: Armenia Day Tour and Lunch with a Local Family

3. From Tbilisi: Armenia Day Tour and Lunch with a Local Family

Armenia, with its distinctive culture, its beautiful rocky mountains and ancient history is a must-see when traveling in the Caucasus region. Discover the beauty of Northern Armenia on this day trip from Tbilisi, with your tour starting at 9:00AM, after which you will head for the border. From here the landscape will begin to change, as you drive through the narrow gorges of the Debed River in between the high rocky mountains. The time seems to stand still in this part of the country, with its typical Soviet cars and huge copper factories built in the middle of the mountains, the scenery is full of bizarre beauty. The tour includes several main sightseeing objects of Northern Armenia, such as the historic Lori region, the fortified monastery of Akhtala, a unique example of wonderfully preserved frescoes from the 11th century, the UNESCO protected monastery of Haghpat and Odzun. Another highlight is a traditional lunch prepared with love by a local family and served in their house. Enjoy a day trip to Armenia in a fun and sustainable way.

From Tbilisi: Private Northern Armenia Highlights Tour

4. From Tbilisi: Private Northern Armenia Highlights Tour

Welcome to the Northern Armenia Highlights Tour, the ultimate way to explore the rich culture and history of Armenia. This one-day tour from Tbilisi, Georgia, takes you on a thrilling journey across the border, where you'll discover the natural beauty of Armenia and its architectural gems. Embark on a comfortable ride from Tbilisi to the Georgian-Armenian border and experience crossing the border between the two countries. After crossing the border we will make a short stop at a local shop to exchange money and buy some local products, so you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture. Our first stop is the breathtaking Akhtala Monastery, a 10th-century architectural masterpiece that boasts intricate frescoes and medieval sculptures. Next, we'll visit the UNESCO-listed Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, two of the most stunning examples of Armenian medieval architecture. Take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and marvel at the intricate carvings and unique architectural details of these masterpieces. Between exploring the monasteries, we'll stop for lunch at a local Armenian restaurant, where you'll have the chance to taste delicious Armenian cuisine and learn more about the local customs and traditions. The tour also includes a stop at the Mikoyan Brothers Museum, where you'll have the chance to see and take photos with a real MIG-21. Throughout the tour, our expert guide will provide you with insights and interesting facts about the history, culture, and architecture of Armenia, making your journey even more enjoyable and enlightening. At the end of the tour, we'll drop you off at your hotel or a central location in Tbilisi. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the wonders of Armenia and book your tour today!

Yerevan: Echmiadzin, Zvartnots, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan Tour

5. Yerevan: Echmiadzin, Zvartnots, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan Tour

After departing from Yerevan, you will make your way to one of the country’s most renowned landmarks: the beautiful Lake Sevan. Merely an hour’s drive from the capital city of Yerevan, Sevan is situated at the height of 1,900 meters above sea level and surrounded by a vast chain of mountains. The tour begins by climbing a flight of stairs to the Sevan Peninsula, a pleasant morning workout that will compensate itself with an unforgettable panoramic view of the lake from above. You will also visit the monastery of Sevanavank, which was built by the princess Mariam to honor the life of her deceased husband in the 9th century. Sevanavank is also home to one of the most beautiful Amenaprkich (all savior) Khachkars of Armenia. Next, you will travel to the North of Armenia, where you will be surrounded by beautiful nature. Passing through the city of Dilijan, you will make a stop at the monastery of Gosh-Goshavank. The last destination during this trip will be the monastery of Haghartsin, which dates back to the 10th-14th centuries. The name is translated as “the play of the eagle”. The scenery is somewhat similar to a stunning work of art, with both the monastery and the nature surrounding it providing a breathtaking view.

From Tbilisi: Private Full-day Private Armenia Tour

6. From Tbilisi: Private Full-day Private Armenia Tour

Uncover religious sites in Armenia like the Akhtala Monastery, Haghpat Monastery, and Sanahin Monastery on this tour from Tbilisi. Admire the natural beauty of Debed Canyon and learn about the Armenian roots of the first Russian fighter jet at the Mikoyan Brothers' Museum of Aviation. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up from your accommodation in Tbilisi in the morning. Travel to the tour supplier's office to check in. Sit back and relax in the air-conditioned car on the drive to the border. Cross the border and stop to exchange some money into Armenian currency.  Continue to Akhtala Monastery, where you can see a church from the 12th century. View beautiful frescoes, the surrounding copper smelting caves, and a copper smelting factory. Make your way to the medieval, Unesco-listed Haghpat Monastery. Stop at a local Armenian restaurant for a delicious traditional lunch. Make your way to the 13th-century bridge and the impressive natural landscapes of Debed Canyon.  Find out about Armenia's Soviet history at the Mikoyan Brothers' Museum, where you can see the original MiG 21 aircraft. Finally, visit the 10th-century Sanahin Monastery complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Return to your accommodation in Tbilisi at the end of your tour. 

From Tbilisi: The Best of Armenia in 2-Days

7. From Tbilisi: The Best of Armenia in 2-Days

Day 1: After the pick up from your hotel in the morning, you will soon reach the border to Armenia and at around 11:00AM. You will step into the historical region of Lori, which is famous for its rocky landscapes and mysterious monasteries. Here you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Haghpat. A few of hours from there, you will arrive at the scenic lake of Sevan, one of the signature sites of Armenia. Here you can see the a medieval monastery, and even enjoy a traditional lunch by the lake. In the late afternoon you will reach Yerevan, the modern capital city. Some of the key sights not to miss here include the Mother of Armenia, Victory Park, and Cascade. Day 2 Your second day will begin with a 1-hour ride to see the Garni Temple and the monastery of Geghard, which is a true jewel of religious architecture in Armenia. Following some classical sightseeing, you will be invited on a tour through the world famous brandy factory, where you will learn about the history of the drink and taste brandies of different parts of the aging process. After an interesting day of exploration, you will reach Tbilisi at around 9:00PM.

Lori private tour: Haghpat, Sanahin, Mendz Er Cave Day Tour

8. Lori private tour: Haghpat, Sanahin, Mendz Er Cave Day Tour

If someone is planning to discover the gorgeous North of Armenia, then the ancient architectural masterpiece of Haghpat and Sanahin must be on one's list. The location and the atmosphere are great. The view is breathtaking. This bouth monasteries are situated in the picturesque Lori region dating back to X- XIII centuries. The "Mendz er" cave was probably a habitat of the first man, later turned into a hiding place, and not long ago it became a herd of goats. There are many famous and still to be discovered caves in Debed gorge, all with their own stories. It is said that the tunnel reaches Sanahin Monastery.

From Yerevan: 5-day Private Guided Hiking & Cultural Tour

9. From Yerevan: 5-day Private Guided Hiking & Cultural Tour

During our 5 days we will hike Armenian mountains on moderate trails with duration of 3 - 7 hours hike per day and get familiar with the Armenian historical and religious monuments, ancient culture and national cuisine. We will visit memorials, markets, temples, monasteries and many more to learn about Armenian history. During our 4th day we will reach Alaverdi and spend overnight there. The town is located at the only direct rail link between Armenia and Georgia. Day 1 / Airport pick up and drive to your hotel / City Tour(Visit Erebuni fortress which is an Urartian fortified city) / walking tour / Lunch / back to your hotel Duration: 7 hours Day 2 / Yerevan - Echmiadzin - Hike from Garni village to Garni temple(distance - 4km; duration 2-3 hours) - Lunch - Geghard cave monastery - drive back to Yerevan Duration: 8 hours Day 3 / Yerevan - Drive to Khor virap monastery -Hike from Gnishik village to Noravank monastery(distance - 13km; duration 5-6 hours) - Lunch - drive back to Yerevan Duration: 10 hours Day 4 / Yerevan - Drive to Lake Sevan - Visit Sevanavank monastery - Dilijan - Hike Goshavank Monastery to Parz lake(distance - 8km; duration 3-4 hours) - drive to Alaverdi- o/n in Alaverdi Day 5 / Hike from Sanahin to Haghpat(distance - 10km; duration 4-5 hours)- Lunch - Drive to back to Yerevan - farewell dinner / Airport drop off Duration: 12 hours

Tbilisi transfer: Haghpat, Sanahin stops to or from Yerevan

10. Tbilisi transfer: Haghpat, Sanahin stops to or from Yerevan

Our employee/s will pick you up from your address/ hotel in Yerevan or Tbilisi and accompany you to Yerevan or Tbilisi. On the way you will have opportunity to explore two monastic complexes of Haghpat and Sanahin which situated in the Lori Marz (region) of Armenia, dating back to the 10th to 13th centuries. The monastery of Haghpat, founded by Queen Khosrovanush (wife of the Armenian King Ashot III) in AD 976, consists of one narthex, two corridor-sepulchers, a refectory, a scriptorium, the Chapel of Hamazasp, a belfry, several chapel-tombs and cross-stones (khachkars)․ Sanahin used to be the administrative centre and family burial place of the Kyurikyan Bagratids (10th and 11th centuries), as well as the Episcopal residence for the diocese (until the 11th century). The Sanahin monastery contains St Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), St Amenaprkich (Redeemer) and St Grigor Churches, narthex, scriptorium, belfry and academy.

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What people are saying about Lori Province

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 240 reviews

Beautiful views, well planned, fantastic tour guide Catherine and great homemade dinner. Definitely worth recommending if you wish to see a bit of Armenia and don't have much time to spare. The monasteries, mountains and industrial post-Soviet towns are super interesting especially when combined with a great narrative from the tour guide.

Joined a day tour from Tbilisi to Armenia. It was such a fun day having a glimpse of Armenia even for a short period of time. Our tour guide Lika was very helpful and informative. Trying Armenian food for lunch was awesome too. Would definitely recommend this to my friends.

Absolutely incredible. Len was so knowledgeable, so thorough with his information and objective throughout. It really was an experience that changed my perspective on that part of the world and illuminated new areas of thought

Lovely day Luka saw sights and learned history. Lunch with local family was definitely a highlight look into a normal family. Crossing boarder was smooth.

Did several tours with the company. Lika was a wonderful guide. Highly recommended.