Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard, Symphony & Charents Arch Day Tour
Explore six of Armenia’s most unique and historically rich sights on this full-day trip from Yerevan. See the Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge, the Arch of Charents, the ancient Garni Temple, the rock-cut Geghard Monastery, Khor Virap with Mount Ararat views, and the tranquil Azat Reservoir.
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 Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard, Syphony & Charents Arch Day Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Symphony of Stones (Garni Gorge)
- Charents Arch (panoramic viewpoint)
- Garni Temple (Hellenistic temple)
- Geghard Monastery (rock-cut, UNESCO)
- Khor Virap Monastery (Mount Ararat views & history of Saint Gregory the Illuminator )
Explore all itineraries in Yerevan.
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet at Tranquil Holidays Armenia (Meeting Point)
Gather at the meeting point in downtown Yerevan. Brief orientation with your driver and departure towards the Garni–Geghard area.
- Monday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5 minutes early to allow time for luggage storage or quick restroom use at the meeting point.
- Carry a small daypack with water and a light layer; mornings can be cool in May.
- Confirm any personal photo requests with your driver so stops for couple photos can be scheduled.
Symphony of the Stones (Garni Gorge)
Begin your journey at the Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge. Walk along the basalt columns formed by volcanic activity and erosion; this natural formation resembles organ pipes.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy flat-soled shoes—the basalt columns and slopes are uneven and can be slippery.
- Plan for 20–30 minutes on-site; stick to marked paths to protect the formation and for your safety.
- Bring a light jacket—wind in the gorge can be stronger than in the town below.
Arch of Charents (panoramic viewpoint)
Visit the Arch of Charents for panoramic views over the Ararat plain and Mount Ararat. A quiet spot ideal for scenic or couple photos.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Use the viewpoint for a short photo stop—bring a wide-angle lens or use panorama mode for Mount Ararat shots.
- There is limited seating and shade—plan quick rests and hydrate before continuing.
- Keep personal items secure; viewpoints can be windy, and small items can blow away.
Garni Temple
Continue to Garni Temple and wander among its reconstructed Hellenistic columns. Learn about the site's history as a royal summer residence and its pre-Christian architecture.
- Monday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Follow designated walking routes around the temple to protect the site and for clearer photo angles.
- There are stairs and uneven ground near the temple—take care and allow time for slow-paced photos.
- If you want a relaxed meal nearby, notify your operator in advance; there are local restaurants close to the temple.
Geghard Monastery
Explore Geghard Monastery, partially carved into the mountain and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit chapels, carved rock chambers, and the monastery courtyard.
- Monday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Dress respectfully—shoulders and knees should be covered when entering chapels.
- Expect steps and some tight passages inside rock-cut areas; move at a comfortable pace and use handrails where provided.
- Allow time for quiet moments in the courtyard—early afternoon is often less crowded than midday.
Khor Virap Monastery
Journey to Khor Virap Monastery, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned. Enjoy close-up views of Mount Ararat from the monastery grounds—a particularly photogenic spot and a romantic 'special moment' for couples.
- Monday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for a prominent Mount Ararat photo near the monastery steps—arrange with your partner in advance for a short photo session.
- There are steps up to the viewpoint; if either partner has limited mobility, request a slower-paced visit.
- Bring sun protection—the lowland area can be sunny and exposed, especially in May.
Azat Reservoir (concluding scenery)
Conclude the day at the Azat Reservoir, a calm man-made lake surrounded by rugged terrain—an ideal spot to relax, reflect, and take final landscape photos before returning to Yerevan.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small snack and water—this is a tranquil stop without many services on-site.
- Allow 20–30 minutes to walk short shoreline paths and find a quiet viewpoint for sunset-toned photos.
- Watch your step near the water’s edge; paths may be uneven and without rails.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Outdoor, Attraction, Culture |
