Garni, Geghard, Charent's Arch, Symphony of Stones & LavashBaking
Comfortable group day trip from Yerevan to Geghard Monastery, the Charents Arch viewpoint, the Temple of Garni and the Symphony of Stones in Azat Canyon. Includes dedicated driver, short hikes and a meal stop. Guests meet in central Yerevan and return the same day.
In Collaboration with Search My Guide. Updated on July 3, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Search My Guide, inspired by the tour Garni, Geghard, Charent's Arch, Symphony of Stones & LavashBaking. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery (Geghardavank)
- Charents Arch viewpoint with Mount Ararat vistas
- Temple of Garni (pagan temple) and short hike
- Symphony of Stones (Basalt Organ) in Azat Canyon
- Scenic drives through the Azat River valley
Explore all itineraries in Yerevan.
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in Yerevan, visit Geghard Monastery first, then stop at the Charents Arch viewpoint before a short hike to the Temple of Garni and the Symphony of Stones. Pause for a village meal, then return to Yerevan.
Meet at Tranquil Holidays Armenia & depart
Group meet-up, quick briefing and departure from central Yerevan. Driver will confirm the route, safety info and approximate timings for the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to complete check-in—Amiryan Street 2 is a short walk from Republic Square.
- Carry a small daypack with water, sunglasses and a light layer for changing mountain breezes.
- If you want a quiet moment later, ask the driver for the best side of the vehicle for Mount Ararat views during the drive.
Visit Geghard Monastery (Geghardavank)
Guided (driver-led) visit to the partially rock-cut medieval Geghard Monastery complex set in a dramatic mountain gorge. Time for photos and a walk through the main chapels and courtyards.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) and comfortable shoes—the terrain inside the complex can be uneven.
- Bring small change and personal ID; the site has an entry checkpoint and limited card acceptance in nearby kiosks.
- Allow time to move slowly through chapels—the best photo light is usually mid-morning in the courtyard.
Charents Arch viewpoint (photo stop)
Short roadside stop at the Charents Arch for panoramic views toward Mount Ararat and a quick photo opportunity.
Tips from local experts:
- Park and viewpoint areas are exposed—bring a hat and sunscreen for strong sun exposure.
- For couples, plan to step a few metres off the main viewpoint for a quieter photo without crowds.
- Watch your footing near the edge and use designated viewing areas—access is via a short walk from the roadside.
Temple of Garni & Symphony of Stones (short hike)
Arrive in Garni for a brief hike to the Temple of Garni (the classical Hellenistic-style pagan temple) and continue to the nearby Basalt columns known as the Symphony of Stones in the Azat River gorge.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy footwear—the route from the village down to the canyon includes uneven stone steps and loose gravel.
- Carry a small bottle of water and a windproof layer; the canyon can be cooler and breezier than the plateau above.
- Keep to marked paths and observation points—stay behind barriers where present to protect the basalt formations.
Village meal in Garni (leisure stop)
Relaxed lunch break in Garni village at a local restaurant or guesthouse; time to rest, sample local bread and dishes, and enjoy the village atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the driver or leader about dietary restrictions when boarding; local hosts are usually accommodating if told in advance.
- Carry cash for small purchases—some village establishments may have limited card service.
- Ask for a window or terrace seat for a quieter, more intimate table and views toward the surrounding hills.
Return drive to Yerevan
Comfortable drive back to the original meeting point in Yerevan, with short stops if required for rest or photos along the way.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect variable traffic entering Yerevan—allow this time as buffer before evening plans.
- Use this time to relax—seatbelts are required and your driver will point out restroom stops if needed.
- If you prefer a different drop-off point in central Yerevan, confirm this with the operator before departure in the morning.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Attraction, Outdoor, Meal, Transfer |
