Caucasus Uncovered: A 10-Day Journey Through Armenia & Georgia

Beyond the pink stone facades lies the heartbeat of Armenia

Wake to your first morning in Armenia and discover a capital where ancient heritage and modern creativity exist side by side. Begin at Victory Park, where the monumental Mother of Armenia gazes across the city, offering sweeping views over Yerevan framed by the distant silhouette of Mount Ararat. Continue to the Matenadaran, home to one of the world's most important collections of ancient manuscripts. Here, beautifully preserved texts tell the story of Armenia's literary legacy and the alphabet. From here, explore the striking Cascade Complex, a monumental limestone staircase that doubles as an open-air museum, where contemporary sculptures contrast with panoramic views across the capital. Enjoy free time for lunch in the lively Cascade district. A visit to the bustling Yerevan Food Market offers a colorful introduction to Armenia's culinary traditions, from fragrant spices and mountain herbs to dried fruits, nuts and local delicacies. This afternoon concludes with one of Armenia's proudest traditions at the historic Yerevan Brandy Company, where you'll explore the ageing cellars before enjoying a guided tasting of the celebrated ARARAT Brandy, paired with handcrafted chocolates.

Follow the roots of one of the world’s oldest Christian traditions

This morning, leave Yerevan behind and travel towards one of Armenia's most revered landmarks, Khor Virap Monastery. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Ararat, this centuries-old monastery is deeply woven into the story of Armenia's Christian heritage. Continue to Etchmiadzin, regarded as the spiritual heart of Armenia and home to the world's oldest Christian cathedral. Dating back to the early 4th century, the cathedral remains the seat of the Armenian Apostolic Church and a place of pilgrimage for believers from around the world. Pause for lunch at the Machanents Cultural Centre, where Armenian hospitality and regional flavors are celebrated in an authentic setting. Before returning to Yerevan, visit the UNESCO-listed Zvartnots Archaeological Site, where the striking remains of a 7th-century cathedral stand as a remarkable testament to Armenia's medieval architecture. Back in the capital, spend time browsing the lively Vernissage Market, a favorite gathering place for local artists and craftsmen. From handcrafted jewellery and ceramics to intricate woodwork and traditional textiles, it offers an opportunity to discover Armenia's creative spirit. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

An unexpected corner of the ancient world, preserved in stone

Begin the day at the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture. Partly carved directly into the surrounding cliffs, this sacred complex has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. A short drive brings you to Garni, home to the only surviving Greco-Roman temple in the Caucasus. Perched above a dramatic gorge, this elegant first-century monument offers a fascinating glimpse into Armenia's pagan past. Continue with one of Armenia's most cherished traditions as you take part in a Lavash baking experience. Watch the country's iconic flatbread prepared in a traditional underground tonir oven before tasting it fresh from the fire, accompanied by local cheese and fragrant mountain herbs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the warm surroundings of a rustic family-run restaurant. Later, descend into the Azat Gorge to witness the extraordinary Symphony of Stones, a spectacular natural formation of towering basalt columns sculpted by volcanic activity over thousands of years. Return to Yerevan in the afternoon, with the remainder of the day free to relax or continue exploring the city at your own pace.

Cross borders, follow legends, and discover the Caucasus

Bid farewell to Armenia as today's journey unfolds through some of its most picturesque landscapes before crossing into neighboring Georgia. Your first stop is the shimmering waters of Lake Sevan, one of the world's highest freshwater lakes. Climb to the hilltop Sevanavank Monastery, where panoramic views stretch across the vast blue lake and the surrounding mountain ranges, creating one of Armenia's most memorable vistas. Continue to Dilijan, often affectionately known as the "Switzerland of Armenia." Wander through its beautifully preserved historic quarter, where timber balconies, artisan workshops and quiet streets reflect the town's long-standing reputation as a center of craftsmanship. Following lunch, travel through the spectacular Debed Canyon before arriving at the UNESCO-listed Haghpat Monastery. Once one of medieval Armenia's foremost centers of learning and manuscript production, its peaceful setting and remarkable architecture offer a fitting conclusion to your Armenian adventure. Later this afternoon, cross the Armenia–Georgia border and continue to Tbilisi, a city where Europe and Asia meet in an effortless blend of cultures, architecture and traditions. The evening is yours to settle into your new surroundings and enjoy Georgia's vibrant capital.

A capital of contrasts, conversations and centuries of stories

Today is devoted to discovering Tbilisi, a city of striking contrasts. Begin in the historic heart of the city with a visit to Metekhi Church, dramatically positioned above the Mtkvari River, before wandering through the atmospheric district of Abanotubani. Known for its distinctive Sulphur bathhouses and colorful architecture. A scenic cable car ride carries you above the rooftops to the ancient Narikala Fortress, where panoramic views reveal the city's unique tapestry of tiled domes, church spires and modern skylines. After time at leisure for lunch, continue your exploration on foot through the Old Town. Visit the historic Sioni Cathedral and the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, before strolling along the elegant Rustaveli Avenue, the city's cultural and political heart. Cross the striking Bridge of Peace, before arriving at Freedom Square, a landmark that reflects Georgia's evolving history and independent spirit. Return to your hotel for time to relax before this evening's welcome dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant.

Where Georgia’s heritage is written in stone

Leaving the capital behind, today's journey traces the origins of Georgian Christianity through the country's most treasured historic landmarks. Begin at the UNESCO-listed Jvari Monastery, perched high above the dramatic meeting point of the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. Continue to nearby Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital and spiritual center. Wander through its charming streets before visiting the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, one of the country's most revered places of worship and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Following lunch, travel along part of the historic Georgian Military Highway to the beautifully preserved Ananuri Fortress. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Zhinvali Reservoir, this former stronghold combines defensive towers, ornate churches and spectacular mountain scenery. Return to Tbilisi in the late afternoon, leaving the evening free to explore the city.

Discover the town that gave the world one of history’s most debated figures.

Today's journey offers a fascinating contrast between Georgia's Soviet legacy and its vibrant modern identity. Travel west to Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin, where a visit to the Stalin Museum provides insight into one of the twentieth century's most influential—and controversial—historical figures. Explore the preserved house where he was born, the museum's extensive collection and the armoured railway carriage used during the Second World War. After lunch, return to Tbilisi and board the historic Tbilisi Funicular, ascending to Mtatsminda Park high above the city. The journey itself is an experience, revealing ever-expanding views across the rooftops, river valleys and surrounding hills. Spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure in Tbilisi.

Raise a glass to Georgia’s oldest ritual.

Leave the capital behind as you journey east into Kakheti, Georgia's celebrated wine region. Framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Greater Caucasus and the fertile Alazani Valley, this is a landscape where viticulture has flourished for over 8,000 years. Your first stop is the peaceful Bodbe Monastery, one of Georgia's most important pilgrimage sites. Set amid beautifully maintained gardens overlooking the valley below, the monastery is closely associated with Saint Nino, who introduced Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. Continue to the charming hilltop town of Sighnaghi, often referred to as the City of Love. Encircled by historic defensive walls, its cobbled streets, colourful houses and intricately carved wooden balconies invite a leisurely stroll. Take time to browse local galleries and artisan boutiques while enjoying sweeping views across the vineyards and mountains. The day culminates with one of Georgia's greatest pleasures—a leisurely lunch accompanied by a wine tasting at a family-owned winery. Discover the country's distinctive winemaking traditions, where ancient techniques using clay qvevri vessels have been preserved for generations and are now recognised by UNESCO as part of the world's Intangible Cultural Heritage. Return to Tbilisi in the late afternoon, where the final evening is yours to enjoy.

Return home carrying the warmth of the Caucasus.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your group transfer to Tbilisi International Airport. As your journey comes to an end, depart with lasting memories of two remarkable countries shaped by ancient civilizations, dramatic landscapes and enduring traditions.