Tour to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in 31 days

Meeting at the airport, transfer to the hotel. Your first day will start with a city tour around Baku. Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan, its scientific, cultural, and industrial centre. After the second oil boom in 2006, the city turned into the modern one with unique extraordinary jaw-dropping masterpieces. You will see the Flag Square, the Carpet Museum, the House of Government, the Philharmonic Theatre named after M. Magomayev, the Baku Mayor's office. Then the tour will continue to the old city that had preserved its ancient architecture, narrow cobbled streets till our days. The Old City Tour will include the Palace of the Shirvan Shahs (XV century), the symbol of the city - Maiden Tower (IX century), Karvansarays, mosques etc. During the excursion, you will also visit the Cultural Center named after Heydar Aliyev. The design of the building is also notable for the fact that neither in the interior or exterior of the building has any angles. The project of the centre was designed by the winner of Pritzker prize and internationally recognized architect Zaha Hadid.

In the morning you will have a trip to Mardakan settlement located at the distance of 34 km from Baku. First, you will see the Pir Hasan sanctuary which is a renovated mausoleum decorated with national ornaments. The mausoleum was founded in the XVI century and it consists of the tombs of Pir Hasan and other highly esteemed historic figures of the country. The tour will proceed to Mardakan Fortress lying in a hidden place of the old village. It is a quadrangular construction built in honour of the brilliant victory of Akhsitan over the enemy. The excursion will proceed to the former summer residence of the oil millionaire of the end of XIX - Murtuza Mukhtarov. This famous man had an interesting story starting from the poor family and turning into a great businessman, enterprising millionaire and philanthropy. The last tour destination will be Mir Movsum Agha Shuvalan Mosque devoted to a holy man who was believed to have no bones. The mosque is also a place to sacrifice meat and other goods, those are distributed to poor families in the village. Return to Baku.

The day will start with a trip out of Baku to Gobustan National Park. The area is known for its petroglyphs, mud volcanoes and gas stones. This entire heritage is protected by UNESCO. In the Gobustan Museum, you will explore the different archaeological finds of this area. Later you will feel like strolling around the Mars surface while exploring the grey-beige cracked earth with the mud volcanoes. The tour will proceed to the Absheron peninsula washed by the Caspian Sea. It is one of the few places on earth where one can observe elements of preserved fire cult of the ancient Zoroastrianism religion. It is also famous for its sandy beaches and numerous holiday villages, as well as modern hotels, a water park, cafes and restaurants. The famous sight is the monument temple Ateshgah (Fire House) survived from XVII-XVIII cc. Next, you will visit Yanar Dag burning mountain with natural gas fire blazing continuously. Due to such amazing natural phenomena, Azerbaijan is often called "the land of fire". Return to Baku.

This day you will have an amazing trip to the north-west of Azerbaijan through the Caucasus Mountains. First, you will stop to see Shamakhi city which is the capital of the Shamakhi Rayon. The city is known for its largest mosque of the Caucasus and the traditional rug weaving. This day you will also see Lagich small settlement hidden in the mountains. The tour will proceed to Nij village where you will forget about modern life and feel in a special world. Here is located a unique small church of Udi people. There are only a few thousand Udi people in the world today and the majority, approx. 4.000 live in this area and village in Azerbaijan. They have roots in Caucasian Albania. They managed to preserve their traditions, language and culture. Today they practise Orthodox Christianity and you will be welcomed with their kindness to see their church. You will also explore the ruins of ancient Caucasian Albania’s capital Gabala.

This day you will reach Sheki town considered one of the oldest places in the country. Once it was an important silk centre and played an important role in the Great Silk Road. The sightseeing tour will include the Upper Town and the magnificent Palace of Sheki Khans. The palace once served as a summer residence of khans and nowadays impresses with its lavish design and surrounding chinar trees. The tour will proceed to “Shebeke” handmade frescos’ workshop, “Pakhlava” famous local sweets’ workshop and “Tekulduz” popular weaving workshop. You won't also miss Kish village with its legendary church built in 78 AD.

This day you will have a transfer to Lagodekhi or passing the customs. From the border and taken to Kvareli. Your excursion will continue to Nekresi - the monastery complex overlooks Alazani Valley. Then you will drive to Kvareli Tunnel, where will visit the famous winery Khareba. Here you will have a tour around the factory, degustation of local wines, as well as a master class on baking Georgian bread shoti and national sweet churchkhela.

The day will start with an exploration of Telavi – the centre of the Kakheti region. You won't also miss a chance to stroll along the cosy streets of Sighnaghi town. This small amazing "city of love" is endowed with significant historic and cultural heritage sites. The tour will continue to Tsinandali estate which is the patrimony of the famous Georgian dynasty – Chavchavadze. The estate is known for its amazing labyrinth planted with exotic trees in it and cellars, where the unique collection of Georgian and European wine is preserved. Transfer back to Tbilisi.

After breakfast, you'll have a short trip to Mtskheta which was the first capital of Georgia from the 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. The town is considered the religious centre of Georgia. Our excursion will start with the visit to the Cathedral of the 11th century – Svetitskhoveli. The next sight to visit is Jvari Temple located at the top of the hill which offers a fascinating view of the confluence of two rivers Kura and Aragvi. After your return to Tbilisi, we’ll continue with a city tour including an in-depth exploration of the old town. Tbilisi is a city of charming atmosphere, winding narrow streets, carved balconies, chic restaurants and wineries. The program will include visits to Metekhi, the Bridge of Peace, Narikala Fortress, the sulfuric baths royal bath complex, Shardeni Street, Juma Mosque, Meydan Square, Sioni Church.

Free day in Tbilisi. Enjoy yourself in Tbilisi by visiting cosy cafes and restaurants, attractive boutiques, galleries and fairs. Plunge into the specific atmosphere of this friendly city where modernity is intertwined with antiquity.

In the morning you will head to Ananuri Fortress located in an amazing place on the shore of the Zhinvali reservoir and surrounded by green velvet hills. The fortress was founded in 1720 with a defensive purpose. The tour will proceed to Gudauri resort. The town is considered one of the most popular ski destinations in Georgia. Although its tourist season starts in winter, Gudauri is no less attractive in summer and autumn: green mountains, sunlit meadows strewn with fragrant flowers, fields with peacefully grazing cows, silence and absolute idyll! Here you will see the Balcony dedicated to the treaty of Georgievsk and enjoy the amazing view of the mountains that opens from the observation area. In Stepantsminda settlement you will go up the hill to visit Gergeti Church situated at an altitude of 2170 m at the foot of Mount Kazbek. From the top of the hill opens a fascinating view to surrounding natural scenery. In the evening you will drive back to Tbilisi.

Your day trip will start with a visit to a small Gori town known as the homeland of Soviet politician Stalin. You will visit The Museum of Stalin - the unique place with the remained atmosphere of the Soviet Union era. The tour will proceed to Kutaisi - the historical capital of Georgia. The city is beautifully divided into two parts by the Rioni River; the parts are connected by several bridges, among which the White Bridge stands out. The main attraction of Kutaisi, we would call the Bagrat Temple, which is one of the largest churches in all of Georgia. Bagrati Cathedral is a UNESCO object. You will also visit another UNESCO object - Gelati Monastery.

This day you will travel to the highland fairy region of Georgia – Svaneti is known for its less discovered isolated landscapes, unique architectural monuments and specific customs. The views of 4000 m high peaks covered with snow, alpine meadows and small cosy houses and towers are absolutely fascinating. Here you will forget about anything. Your tour program will include a visit to Mestia – the centre of the region a picturesque town located at an elevation of 1500 meters (4921 feet) in the Caucasus Mountains.

In the morning you will be taken to Ushguli - the highest eternal settlement in Europe. People connect the etymology of “Ushguli” to the word “Ushishari Guli”, which is translated from Georgian as “fearless heart”. This is because historically, the community of Ushguli was brave and has always been free. The village is located at an altitude of 2200 metres (6,900 ft) near the foot of Shkhara, one of the highest summits of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. You will stop to see the Love Tower - standing on Enguri River shore in village Ifari. According to an interesting legend, which is known by local inhabitants, the place represents the symbol of lovers. On the road to Ushguli village, you will pass extreme road, which is such narrow in some parts that two cars can’t pass the road simultaneously. When you reach the village, you will visit the church of the Virgin Lamaria, dated back to 9-10th centuries. Here are kept the ancient frescos. You will also visit Zhibiani – a small village located next to Ushguli, one of the best places for photo shoots and walking after you will be transferred back to Mestia.

After breakfast, you will have a visit to Martvili canyons that attracts a large number of visitors with its adorable wild nature, practically untouched places by humans. Martvili canyons used to be a bathing place for Dadiani family. Now people visit it to enjoy the scenery, its waterfalls and take a boat trip in the river with deep green colour. Then you will visit Prometheus Cave one of the richest caves in Europe. They are characterized by a variety of underground rivers and breathtaking landscapes. After visiting these beautiful sights, you will be transferred back to Kutaisi for an overnight.

In the morning you will head to Batumi – the centre of Ajara region located on the coast of the Black Sea. It is a charming modern city, with beautiful sea boulevard, restaurants, entertainment, parks and all the necessary conditions for beach holidays. The city is distinguished with old and modern unique architecture and attractive tropic plants such as palms, magnolias and others.

This day you will explore the most popular sights of Batumi. You will see the legendary statue of Ali and Nino which is a symbol of the eternal love mutual understanding between nations. You will enjoy strolling along the Batumi Boulevard framed by well-groomed palms and offering breathtaking view to the sea. Your guide will accompany you and show such attractions as the dancing fountains, the Sea Port, the Alphabet Tower as well as Holy Mother Virgin's Nativity Cathedral and St. Nikoloz Church.

Have a great chance to spend some free time in Batumi, to enjoy its festive atmosphere and admire the beauty of the sunset on the shore. There a lot of interesting things one can do here besides bathing and sunbathing. There is a water park, aquarium, zoo, dolphinarium and the cable car.

After breakfast, we drive to Borjomi – famous resort with amazing nature, where we can try mineral waters from the spring in the Mineral Water Park. The healing properties of Borjomi mineral waters have been known and used for centuries. This is proved by 7 baths made of cut stone uncovered by our archaeologists and dating from the beginning of our age. The special recreational power of the gorge stems from micro-climate peculiarities and dark coniferous forests.

Today you will have a trip to Akhaltsikhe town well-known for its Rabati Fortress – the medieval structure, which dates back to the XIII century. Recently renovated Rabati Castle was reopened in Akhaltsikhe in August 2012 and now is the main attraction of the town. Your trip will continue to Vardzia – a unique cave complex of the Golden Age (XII-XIII cent.), the first cave of which was created during the reign of Queen Tamar’s father, George III. In ancient times, the complex served as a refuge for civilians. On the territory of Vardzia, there is a functioning monastery and temples. Then we drive to Georgian-Armenian border Bavra. Meet your Armenian representatives and head to Gyumri for a free evening.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will explore Gyumri – a cultural centre and the second-largest city in Armenia. The city has a museum of local lore, a historical and cultural reserve, as well as five churches, a monastery, and an Orthodox chapel. The most beautiful and historically valuable of them is the church Amenaprkich (the Church of the Savior). The city was once the centre of education and culture in Armenia and the first Armenian opera was established in Gyumri in 1912. You will have a free evening in Gyumri.

This day will start with a visit to Stepanavan Dendropark – Armenia’s first botanical garden. 15 hectares of its territory are planted with exotic trees and the rest 20 hectares are covered by natural wild forest. The trip will proceed to Russian Molokan village Fioletovo. At home of welcoming hostess you will have a delicious coffee break and have an opportunity to a chat over a cup of tea from a samovar and try pancakes with jam. At the end of the day you will make a stop at the cozy resort town of Dilijan known for its arts and crafts as well as picturesque lush nature and healing air.

This day will be devoted to the exploration of natural and historical gems of Tavush Province. First of all you will head to Haghartsin Monastery surrounded by lush mountain woods. It is a medieval masterpiece the construction of which belongs to the 11 th – 13 th centuries. You will also visit Goshavank Monastery named after medieval scholar and priest Mkhitar Gosh. The impressive monastery which has remained in relatively good condition also houses one of the world's finest examples of cross-stones. At the end of the tour you will have a chance to admire the beauty of Parz Lake and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake. You will have free time in Dilijan.

The tour will continue to Gegharkunik Province best known for the gem of Armenian nature - amazing Lake Sevan. It is one is highest freshwater lakes in the world located at an altitude of 1900 meters above the sea level. After a visit to Hayravank Monastery, you will have a trip along the part of the Great Silk Road towards the Selim Pass. The trip will pass along the part of the Great Silk Road towards the Selim Pass. Here you will make a stop to visit the 14th century Selim Caravansary – one of the most well-preserved hostels along the ancient Great Silk Road. You will have an overnight in a resort town Jermuk known for its healing mineral water springs.

This day you will head to the pearl of Armenian medieval architecture – the monastery of Tatev. It is considered one of the most wonderful places in Armenia. The monastery is located on the edge of a dramatic canyon surrounded by lush nature. Tatev can be reached by the longest cable car in the world which stretches over the 320 meter-deep Vorotan River Canyon. You will make a stop at a natural bridge named “Devil’s Bridge” at the bottom of the deep canyon and then head to Khndzoresk - one of those places, that people were able to dominate nature and take the best of it. Khndzoresk is famous for its antique cave dwellings, which were inhabited till the 1950s. From ancient times people lived in these rocky hills, constructing artificial shelters and places for food storage. After the tour, head to Goris town for having overnight. After the tour, you will head to small cozy town Goris for having overnight.

In the morning, after a delicious breakfast, you will start your trip to Yerevan. The tour will go through a narrow canyon to the valley of red rocks where Noravank Monastery is located. En route, you will visit wine factory to taste local wine made of the unique grape sort Areni. Trip to the south of Armenia to Khor Virap Monastery located at the foot of Biblical Mount Ararat. In the evening you will be in Yerevan for overnight.

After having breakfast at the hotel, you will start the Yerevan City Tour. It is one of the oldest cities of the world, Yerevan attracts its visitors with its humble and at the same time splendid landscapes. The city tour will start from the Cascade Monument, which was the main symbol of the city’s 2780th anniversary with the equivalent number of stairs. The mega scale staircase is 500 meters high and 50 meters wide. From the top of the Cascade opens up a breathtaking city view of the city including such sights as the Opera House, Mount Ararat, Swan Lake, Republic Square, and Abovyan Avenue. The trip will continue to the History Museum of Armenia – the main historical museum of the country known for its Archaeological, Numismatic, and Ethnographic collections.

Free day in Yerevan. This day you will have a chance to explore Yerevan on your own. Stroll around its cosy streets and just plunge into the atmosphere of local's everyday life. You can also enjoy shopping and buying memorable souvenirs for family and friends.

A short drive will also take you to Echmiadzin town – the religious centre of all Armenians around the world. Here after the adoption of Christianity in 301 AD was built one of the first Christian cathedrals in the world – Echmiadzin Cathedral. It is the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of the Catholicos of all Armenians. The cathedral keeps an important religious relic – the Holy Lance spear. In 2000 it was listed as a UNESCO site. You’ll also visit the ruins of Zvartnots temple (7th century, UNESCO World Heritage Site), that was a miracle of its time. On your way back to Yerevan visit Matenadaran museum, a repository of one of the richest manuscript collections in the world.

A short morning drive will take you to Saghmosavank. It is a Greek-cross style monastery of the 13th century, which played an important role in the religious, academic and cultural development of medieval Armenia. Your next stop will be at the monument of Armenian Alphabet founded in 2005 to celebrate the 1600th anniversary of the alphabet foundation. Drive to Amberd – rare historical site that survived and reached us in a good condition from the 7-the century. Some say that it was built in the 11-13th centuries, attributing it to the near located church. Amberd means ‘fortress in the clouds’; the name is due to its location 2300 meters above sea level. At the end of the day, you will reach to Yerevan and have overnight there.

This day you will have a 1-hour drive to the Canyon of Azat River. Our destination is Geghard Monastery. This unique monastery is carved into nearby rocks and the surrounding cliffs compose a great part of it. In 2000 it became a UNESCO heritage site. The trip will proceed to Garni village, well known for its Garni temple – the only surviving example of Hellenistic architecture in the region. This is the only Greco-Roman style temple with 24 ionic columns as in Armenia, so on the territory of the former USSR. A disastrous 1679 earthquake destroyed the temple. It was reconstructed in the 20th century.

Transfer to the airport, departure