Jermuk - Day Trip

🗓️ One-Day Tour: Yerevan → Khor Virap → Noravank → Areni → Arch of Dreams → Jermuk → Yerevan

🕗 Departure: 7:30 AM
🕖 Return: ~9:00 PM

🛣️ Itinerary with Stops
🛑 1. Khor Virap Monastery
🕗 8:30 – 9:15 AM
Start the day with a visit to Khor Virap, one of Armenia’s most iconic monasteries with the closest view of Mount Ararat. It’s famous for its underground chamber where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned.
📍Top photo spot with Ararat in the background
📜 Spiritual and historic importance
🛑 2. Noravank Monastery
🕙 10:45 – 11:30 AM
Continue to the red cliffs of Noravank, a stunning 13th-century monastery nestled in a narrow gorge. The dramatic setting and intricate carvings on Surb Astvatsatsin Church make it one of the most photogenic spots in Armenia.
📸 Don’t miss the famous narrow staircase up the façade
🛑 3. Areni Wine Village + Winery Visit
🕦 11:45 – 12:30 PM
Stop in Areni, Armenia’s wine capital. Visit a local winery to taste red wine made from ancient grape varieties. You can also try pomegranate wine and local dried fruits.
🍷 Optional wine tasting (free or 1000–2000 AMD depending on place)
🛍️ Local souvenirs and dried fruits available
🛑 4. Lunch in Areni or Jermuk
🕧 12:45 – 2:00 PM
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant or guesthouse offering traditional Armenian cuisine.
🍽️ Recommended dishes: khorovats (grilled meat), spas (yogurt soup), gata
🛑 5. Arch of Dreams (Tsaghats Kar Viewpoint)
🕑 2:15 – 2:45 PM
A beautiful symbolic monument often called the “Arch of Dreams”, located near the road to Jermuk. Offers sweeping views of the mountains and deep canyons — a peaceful and dreamlike stop for photos and reflection.
🛑 6. Jermuk Mineral Water Gallery & Waterfall
🕒 3:30 – 5:00 PM
Explore the famous Jermuk Waterfall, also called Mermaid’s Hair, and take a walk in the forested park nearby. Visit the Mineral Water Gallery to try natural warm spring waters with different mineral compositions.
💧 Free mineral water tasting
🌊 Beautiful nature trails and fresh air
🛑 7. Return to Yerevan
🕔 Departure: ~5:00 PM
🕖 Arrival in Yerevan: ~9:00 PM
🧳 What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Water & light snacks
A camera
Warm layers (Jermuk can be cooler)

📅 Best Season

Spring to Autumn (April–October) — ideal for winery visits, hiking, and views.