Yerevan: Khor Virap, Garni & Geghard Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Armenia’s sacred stones and pagan echoes on a day from Yerevan

You’ll travel from Yerevan into Armenia’s heart—climb through Khor Virap’s history with views of Mount Ararat, touch ancient stones at Garni Temple, and listen as voices fill Geghard Monastery’s carved halls. With pickup included and a local guide sharing stories along the way, this day trip leaves more than photos—it lingers.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand so close to Mount Ararat that you can almost smell the snow? That’s how our day started, leaving Yerevan behind with the windows cracked open (the air still cool, even in late spring). Our driver—Arman, who had the driest sense of humor—pulled over near Khor Virap and handed us bottled water, then pointed out the exact spot where Saint Gregory was imprisoned. I tried to imagine centuries-old footsteps echoing down in that dark pit. The silence up there is different—thicker somehow—and all you hear is wind and distant church bells. I didn’t expect to feel goosebumps just looking at a mountain.

Garni Temple was next, perched sharp above the gorge like it’s daring the world to forget it’s pagan roots. Our guide Anna explained how the columns survived earthquakes and kings; she even showed us a mosaic from the old Roman bathhouse nearby (I nearly missed it because I was distracted by some local kids selling apricots outside). The stone felt warm under my hand—maybe too warm for mid-morning, but maybe that’s just Armenia. Anna laughed when I tried saying “miaseen” (together) in Armenian, which probably sounded more like sneezing than speaking.

Geghard Monastery came last. The air changed as soon as we stepped inside—the kind of coolness that smells faintly of incense and old stone. A group started singing in one of the cave chapels; their voices bounced around in a way that made time feel fuzzy. I just stood there for a minute longer than everyone else, letting it settle in. The ride back to Yerevan was quiet—I think we were all replaying bits of the day in our heads. There’s something about these places that sticks with you after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Khor Virap, Garni, and Geghard

• Travel from Yerevan to Khor Virap
• Explore Khor Virap monastery and views
• Drive to Garni temple
• Visit Garni temple and ruins
• Proceed to Geghard monastery
• Tour Geghard monastery complex
• Return to Yerevan

Top questions

How long does the Khor Virap, Garni & Geghard day trip take?

The tour lasts about 7-8 hours including travel time from Yerevan.

Is hotel pickup included for this Armenia day trip?

Yes, free pickup and drop-off within Yerevan are included.

Are guides available in English or Russian?

You can choose an English or Russian-speaking guide when booking.

Can infants join this tour from Yerevan?

Yes, infants can join; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What makes Geghard Monastery special?

Part of it is carved into rock; it’s UNESCO-listed and famous for its acoustics and khachkars.

Is lunch included on this private day trip?

No lunch is included but bottled water is provided; you may stop for food upon request.

How far are these sites from Yerevan?

Khor Virap is about 40km south; Garni and Geghard are east of Yerevan, roughly 30-35km away.

What’s included

Your day includes free hotel pickup and drop-off within Yerevan, an air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver, bottled water for the road, insurance for everyone onboard, plus the option to have an English or Russian-speaking guide share stories along each stop—even extra detours if you ask nicely.