AUD 4786 / pp

DATES & RATES

Tbilisoba & 3 Countries Great Celebration, Food, Wine & Sightseeing

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Georgia

ON SALE

Dates:
September - October 2020/2021

Activity level:

1 of 3 - Easy. No much walking, no long driving, take your time and relax

2 of 3 - Moderate. Consider some walking, some days may include long drives

3 of 3 - Challenging. You may have to take some risks and to fit the requirements

Duration:
18 days

Group:
10-20 ppl

ON SALE NOW
AUD 5770

Three Countries & an Amazing Festival

Birthdays only come once a year, and the capital of Georgia Tbilisi is no exception. A celebration called "Tbilisoba" takes place on the first weekend of October when the harvest time is almost over, the weather is still warm, and the beautiful colors of nature are out - that’s all you need to be in a festive mood! Mix up the great festival with the amazing history of the world’s oldest Christian nations neighboring luxurious medieval Muslim palaces and mosques, add Eastern bazaars, finest vineyards and winemaking traditions backing three different, but equally opulent local cuisines. Top it with a unique and rich heritage of ancient cultures and Kingdoms, and you will perceive a journey to the astonishing Caucasus: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia.

Itinerary

Day by day

Visa info

Day 1: Arrival at Baku, Azerbaijan

Arrival at Baku. Meet & greet at the airport, private transfer to your hotel and check-in (after 14:00). Rest of the day at leisure to explore the capital of Azerbaijan, enigmatic and fascinating travel destination. Lush, flaunting, futuristic and intriguing Baku is a perfect place to start your Caucasian discoveries. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at one of the best restaurants in Baku. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Baku

Breakfast. Baku guided sightseeing tour (about 6 hours). Visit all the attractions of the old town such as Martyrs’ Lane, walk through the Alley of the Martyrs, explore Icheri Sheher, the old part of the city. Visit stunning and opulent Shirvanshah's Palace (XXIII-XV centuries), a pearl of medieval architecture. The former Shirvani rules’ residence is lavishly decorated with amazing stone carving and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour continues with Caravanserai, Maiden Tower, and main market square, a cozy souvenir bazaar. Explore Nizami Street and Fountain Square. The evening is free at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Baku.

Day 3: Baku – Shamakhi – Lahich – Sheki

After breakfast, we depart towards Sheki. On the way, make a stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum in the village of Maraza. Continue to Shamakhi and visit the historical Juma Mosque. Then take a scenic drive through Girdimanchay River Canyon to Lahich, an ancient village famous for its medieval water supply and sewage systems, traditional jewellery, copperware, carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools. Continue to the town of Sheki to arrive in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Sheki, Azerbaijan - Akhasheni, Georgia

After breakfast at the hotel, we will have some time to visit the colourful Sheki Bazaar. Dive into thousands of smells and aromas, learn to bargain and communicate with the locals! Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans, which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops. After exploring Sheki, head towards the border with Georgia (115 km, ~2 h). Crossing the border, we enter Eastern Georgia famous for its winemaking traditions. Our first stop in Georgia will be in ‘Khareba’ tonnel winery. The end of September is a great harvesting season and you are invited to join the locals in producing the wines. Start with harvesting grapes (‘Rtveli’) and press them with their feet in the traditional ‘Satsnakheli. Then join the local bread baking masterclass and enjoy a full lunch. After lunch take a guided tour around the winery and enjoy tasting a few different local wines. Then drive to Akhasheni Wine Resort 4* for overnight (for both 3* and 4* packages).

Day 5: Telavi - Signaghi -Tbilisi

After breakfast at the hotel, take a ride to Gremi, architectural complex built in the 16th century. It used to be the royal residence and the capital of Kakheti Kingdom. Gloomy and monumental l, the Gremi castle is one of the most visited historical monuments in Georgia. Stop in the city of Telavi with a lovely fortress to have a short walk in the old Telavi and visit local bazaar with fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses and dry fruits. Take a delightful Georgian cuisine cooking class and after an hour of cooking enjoy your hand-made Khachapuri and Khinkali. Then we take a ride to Sighnaghi - an old castle town with magnificent views over Alazani Valley. Walk the city walls and enjoy the views. In the evening, arrive at Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.

Day 6: Tbilisi

Breakfast. Take off for a guided sightseeing tour of Tbilisi, the city with a history dating back to at least the 5th century AD. Start at Metekhi Сhurch and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Take a cable car to visit Narikala Fortress to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Stroll down to the district of sulfur bathhouses and pass by the only mosque in Tbilisi. Walk through the Sharden area, full of narrow streets with cosy cafés, wine tasting bars, and souvenir shops, and breathe in the history of Old Tbilisi. Visit Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre’s clock tower, before crossing the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park. In the evening join your fellow travellers for a Georgian cuisine dinner in one of the best local restaurants.The dinner will be accompanied by polyphonic singing and national dances. Overnight at the hotel in Tbilisi.

Day 7: Mtskheta - Stepantsminda

After breakfast, we check out and head to the North of Georgia. The first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a true architectural masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, which is picturesquely perched above the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers. Continue to Mtskheta, one of the oldest towns in Georgia and the country’s cultural and religious centre. Proceed to the Ananuri Complex, a former residence of Argveti Dukes, with its churches and towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries and beautifully overlooking Jinvali Reservoir. Drive towards the Cross Pass to make a short stop at the Soviet-era “People’s Friendship” mountain viewpoint, which overlooks a deep gorge of the Caucasus Mountains. In the evening, we reach Stepantsminda for an overnight stop at the hotel.

Day 8: Stepantsminda

After breakfast, switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach Gergeti Holy Trinity Church (located at an altitude of 2,170 m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kazbegi. After lunch, take a ride to the border with Russia through a scenic Darial Gorge. The evening is free at leisure to enjoy the greatest mountain views and a glass of wine at a cosy terrace of “Rooms Hotel” overlooking the top of Kazbek mountain. Overnight at the hotel in Stepantsminda.

Day 9: Gori - Uplistsikhe - Borjomi

After breakfast, drive to Stalin’s hometown of Gori. Visit the Stalin Museum, which includes more than 60,000 artefacts, the tiny house where Stalin was born, and an impressive bulletproof train that Stalin used to travel to Yalta and Potsdam. Drive to Borjomi. Overnight at the hotel in Borjomi.

Day 10: Borjomi - Rabati - Vardzia

After breakfast, take a ride to Rabati fortress in the town of Akhatsikhe. Its name comes from Arabic meaning “fortified place”. The old stone Rabati fortress is standing on the small hill on the very shores of the Potskhovi River. After lunch at a restaurant near the fortress, take a drive to Vardzia, a significant cave monastery. En route, short photo-stop at Khertvisi fortress (10-11th century). Vardzia is not just a set of random rooms cut in rocks. It is a multi-storied complex with streets, tunnels, and stairs leading to monasteries, temples, fortresses, baths, libraries dwelling houses and so forth. Take a guided tour and then drive back to Borjomi. The evening is free at leisure.

Day 11: Borjomi - Tbilisi. TBILISOBA!

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and take a ride to Tbilisi. This weekend Tbilisi celebrates its birthday called “Tbilisoba”. The harvest time is almost over, the weather is still warm, and the beautiful colors of nature are out - that’s all you need to be in a festive mood!

Day 12: TBILISOBA!

The day is free at leisure to enjoy the colorful celebration of Tbilisoba. Stroll into colorful markets, enjoy the plenty of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, fresh churchkhela and pelamushi, steamy khinkali, barbequed meat, bread, and wine, of course. There are fantastic compositions made of autumn fruits, a wide variety of beautiful handicraft masterpieces, theatrical performances, scenes from Georgia’s history, folk music and dance performances, a gala concert, and fireworks under the sky. That’s what makes this Tbilisi festival so special. On these days the whole city centre becomes the festival grounds.

Day 13: Tbilisi, Georgia - Yerevan, Armenia

Head from Tbilisi to the border with Armenia. Drive through Dilijan, the most famous tourist spot where you will visit Haghartsin monastery and stop for a lunch. After lunch continue along Lake Sevan – “The Jewel of Armenia” and one of the largest high-mountain freshwater lakes in the world. The coastline of Lake Sevan is rich with thick woods, white bare steep rocks, mountain steppes, and Alpine Meadows. Stop at Sevanavank to visit the remnants of the monastery that include two temples standing among numerous carved cross-stones. Reach Yerevan in the evening. Check-in at the hotel and rest.

Day 14: Yerevan

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world, pink city Yerevan which was founded in 782 BC. It is an incredibly beautiful city built of rose tuff, which calls visitors with its humble yet splendid landscapes. Breakfast with an Ararat mountain view, how does that appeal? Take off for a guided city tour visiting the Cascade Monument, the main symbol of the cities 2780th anniversary with the equivalent number of stairs. The mega-scale staircase is 500 meters high and 50 meters wide. A panoramic view from the monument opens up breathtaking city view with Opera House, Mount Ararat, Swan Lake, Republic Square, and Abovyan Avenue, which you will also walk by during the tour. Continue to the Armenian Genocide memorial complex on the hill of Tsitsernakaberd. In the evening enjoy tasting the famous Armenian cognacs at Armenian Brandy Factory. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 15: Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Etchmiadzin -Yerevan

Depart Yerevan and drive to Garni, one of the major villages in Armenia famous for its fortress. The fortress is the only pagan sacred place from the 1st century that survived the aggressive introduction of Christianity in the 4th century. Next stop is at the Geghard monastery “a spear” in Armenian), the UNESCO World Heritage Site Medieval buildings are set into a stunning landscape of Azat Valley with its towering cliffs. The Geghard complex is an exceptionally complete medieval monastery in such a remote area of great natural beauty. And what is the most remarkable, there has been no changes here since the entire monastery was completed many centuries ago. Continue to the Holy See of Armenia, Etchmiadzin. Visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral which is believed to be the oldest cathedral in the world, and Zvartnots, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Echmiatsin is also the residence of the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Catholicos of All Armenians. We return to Yerevan in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16: Yerevan - Khor Virap - Goris

After breakfast, head to Khor Virap Monastery. Here you will find the best views of Mount Ararat, the main symbol of Armenia and a sacred mountain for Armenians. Continue to Areni, a city known for producing famous Armenian wine from pomegranate and apricot. Here we will taste various fruits and berry wines and oghi, Armenian traditional spirit. Reach Goris for dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 17: Tatev - Noravank - Yerevan

In the morning, drive to Tatev Monastery (built in 9-13th centuries). Reach the jewel of medieval Armenian architecture by cableway called "Wings of Tatev". It is the longest reversible aerial tramway built in only one section and holds the record for Longest non-stop double track cable car. Enjoy the stunning views before returning to Yerevan. On the way back to the city, we shall visit the famous Noravank Monastery (12th century), beautifully set on the edge of a deep winding gorge of the Arpa River. Drop off at your hotel in Yerevan. In the evening we have a farewell dinner in one of the best restaurants in the city.

Day 18: Departure from Yerevan, Armenia

Breakfast, hotel check-out. Transfer to the airport.

Show less

Show more [{"id":1461,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2035","name":"Day 1: Arrival at Baku, Azerbaijan","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Arrival at Baku. Meet & greet at the airport, private transfer to your hotel and check-in (after 14:00). Rest of the day at leisure to explore the capital of Azerbaijan, enigmatic and fascinating travel destination. Lush, flaunting, futuristic and intriguing Baku is a perfect place to start your Caucasian discoveries. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at one of the best restaurants in Baku. Overnight at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"10"},{"id":1462,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2028","name":"Day 2: Baku","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Breakfast. Baku guided sightseeing tour (about 6 hours). Visit all the attractions of the old town such as Martyrs\u2019 Lane, walk through the Alley of the Martyrs, explore Icheri Sheher, the old part of the city. Visit stunning and opulent Shirvanshah's Palace (XXIII-XV centuries), a pearl of medieval architecture. The former Shirvani rules\u2019 residence is lavishly decorated with amazing stone carving and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour continues with Caravanserai, Maiden Tower, and main market square, a cozy souvenir bazaar. Explore Nizami Street and Fountain Square. The evening is free at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Baku.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"30"},{"id":1463,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2030","name":"Day 3: Baku \u2013 Shamakhi \u2013 Lahich \u2013 Sheki","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, we depart towards Sheki. On the way, make a stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum in the village of Maraza. Continue to Shamakhi and visit the historical Juma Mosque. Then take a scenic drive through Girdimanchay River Canyon to Lahich, an ancient village famous for its medieval water supply and sewage systems, traditional jewellery, copperware, carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools. Continue to the town of Sheki to arrive in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"40"},{"id":1464,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2073","name":"Day 4: Sheki, Azerbaijan - Akhasheni, Georgia","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast at the hotel, we will have some time to visit the colourful Sheki Bazaar. Dive into thousands of smells and aromas, learn to bargain and communicate with the locals! Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans, which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops. After exploring Sheki, head towards the border with Georgia (115 km, ~2 h). Crossing the border, we enter Eastern Georgia famous for its winemaking traditions. Our first stop in Georgia will be in \u2018Khareba\u2019 tonnel winery. The end of September is a great harvesting season and you are invited to join the locals in producing the wines. Start with harvesting grapes (\u2018Rtveli\u2019) and press them with their feet in the traditional \u2018Satsnakheli. Then join the local bread baking masterclass and enjoy a full lunch. After lunch take a guided tour around the winery and enjoy tasting a few different local wines. Then drive to Akhasheni Wine Resort 4* for overnight (for both 3* and 4* packages).","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-23 00:49:23","order":"50"},{"id":1465,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2016","name":"Day 5: Telavi - Signaghi -Tbilisi","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast at the hotel, take a ride to Gremi, architectural complex built in the 16th century. It used to be the royal residence and the capital of Kakheti Kingdom. Gloomy and monumental l, the Gremi castle is one of the most visited historical monuments in Georgia. \r\nStop in the city of Telavi with a lovely fortress to have a short walk in the old Telavi and visit local bazaar with fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses and dry fruits. Take a delightful Georgian cuisine cooking class and after an hour of cooking enjoy your hand-made Khachapuri and Khinkali. \r\nThen we take a ride to Sighnaghi - an old castle town with magnificent views over Alazani Valley. Walk the city walls and enjoy the views. \r\nIn the evening, arrive at Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 22:14:13","order":"60"},{"id":1466,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2031","name":"Day 6: Tbilisi","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Breakfast. Take off for a guided sightseeing tour of Tbilisi, the city with a history dating back to at least the 5th century AD. Start at Metekhi \u0421hurch and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Take a cable car to visit Narikala Fortress to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Stroll down to the district of sulfur bathhouses and pass by the only mosque in Tbilisi. Walk through the Sharden area, full of narrow streets with cosy caf\u00e9s, wine tasting bars, and souvenir shops, and breathe in the history of Old Tbilisi. Visit Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre\u2019s clock tower, before crossing the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park. In the evening join your fellow travellers for a Georgian cuisine dinner in one of the best local restaurants.The dinner will be accompanied by polyphonic singing and national dances. Overnight at the hotel in Tbilisi.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"70"},{"id":1467,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2015","name":"Day 7: Mtskheta - Stepantsminda","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, we check out and head to the North of Georgia. The first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a true architectural masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, which is picturesquely perched above the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers. Continue to Mtskheta, one of the oldest towns in Georgia and the country\u2019s cultural and religious centre. Proceed to the Ananuri Complex, a former residence of Argveti Dukes, with its churches and towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries and beautifully overlooking Jinvali Reservoir. Drive towards the Cross Pass to make a short stop at the Soviet-era \u201cPeople\u2019s Friendship\u201d mountain viewpoint, which overlooks a deep gorge of the Caucasus Mountains. In the evening, we reach Stepantsminda for an overnight stop at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"80"},{"id":1468,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"329","name":"Day 8: Stepantsminda","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach Gergeti Holy Trinity Church (located at an altitude of 2,170 m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kazbegi. After lunch, take a ride to the border with Russia through a scenic Darial Gorge. The evening is free at leisure to enjoy the greatest mountain views and a glass of wine at a cosy terrace of \u201cRooms Hotel\u201d overlooking the top of Kazbek mountain. Overnight at the hotel in Stepantsminda.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"90"},{"id":1469,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"330","name":"Day 9: Gori - Uplistsikhe - Borjomi","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, drive to Stalin\u2019s hometown of Gori. Visit the Stalin Museum, which includes more than 60,000 artefacts, the tiny house where Stalin was born, and an impressive bulletproof train that Stalin used to travel to Yalta and Potsdam. Drive to Borjomi. Overnight at the hotel in Borjomi.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 23:12:03","order":"100"},{"id":1470,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2020","name":"Day 10: Borjomi - Rabati - Vardzia","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, take a ride to Rabati fortress in the town of Akhatsikhe. Its name comes from Arabic meaning \u201cfortified place\u201d. The old stone Rabati fortress is standing on the small hill on the very shores of the Potskhovi River. \r\nAfter lunch at a restaurant near the fortress, take a drive to Vardzia, a significant cave monastery. En route, short photo-stop at Khertvisi fortress (10-11th century). Vardzia is not just a set of random rooms cut in rocks. It is a multi-storied complex with streets, tunnels, and stairs leading to monasteries, temples, fortresses, baths, libraries dwelling houses and so forth. Take a guided tour and then drive back to Borjomi. \r\nThe evening is free at leisure.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 22:14:13","order":"110"},{"id":1471,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2074","name":"Day 11: Borjomi - Tbilisi. TBILISOBA!","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, check out of the hotel and take a ride to Tbilisi. \r\nThis weekend Tbilisi celebrates its birthday called \u201cTbilisoba\u201d. The harvest time is almost over, the weather is still warm, and the beautiful colors of nature are out - that\u2019s all you need to be in a festive mood!","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 22:14:13","order":"120"},{"id":1472,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2075","name":"Day 12: TBILISOBA!","name_option":"Day by day","text":"The day is free at leisure to enjoy the colorful celebration of Tbilisoba. Stroll into colorful markets, enjoy the plenty of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, fresh churchkhela and pelamushi, steamy khinkali, barbequed meat, bread, and wine, of course. \r\nThere are fantastic compositions made of autumn fruits, a wide variety of beautiful handicraft masterpieces, theatrical performances, scenes from Georgia\u2019s history, folk music and dance performances, a gala concert, and fireworks under the sky. That\u2019s what makes this Tbilisi festival so special. On these days the whole city centre becomes the festival grounds.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 22:14:13","order":"130"},{"id":1473,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"334","name":"Day 13: Tbilisi, Georgia - Yerevan, Armenia","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Head from Tbilisi to the border with Armenia. Drive through Dilijan, the most famous tourist spot where you will visit Haghartsin monastery and stop for a lunch. After lunch continue along Lake Sevan \u2013 \u201cThe Jewel of Armenia\u201d and one of the largest high-mountain freshwater lakes in the world. The coastline of Lake Sevan is rich with thick woods, white bare steep rocks, mountain steppes, and Alpine Meadows. Stop at Sevanavank to visit the remnants of the monastery that include two temples standing among numerous carved cross-stones. Reach Yerevan in the evening. Check-in at the hotel and rest.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"140"},{"id":1474,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"335","name":"Day 14: Yerevan","name_option":"Day by day","text":"One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of the world, pink city Yerevan which was founded in 782 BC. It is an incredibly beautiful city built of rose tuff, which calls visitors with its humble yet splendid landscapes. Breakfast with an Ararat mountain view, how does that appeal? Take off for a guided city tour visiting the Cascade Monument, the main symbol of the cities 2780th anniversary with the equivalent number of stairs. The mega-scale staircase is 500 meters high and 50 meters wide. A panoramic view from the monument opens up breathtaking city view with Opera House, Mount Ararat, Swan Lake, Republic Square, and Abovyan Avenue, which you will also walk by during the tour. Continue to the Armenian Genocide memorial complex on the hill of Tsitsernakaberd. In the evening enjoy tasting the famous Armenian cognacs at Armenian Brandy Factory. Overnight at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"150"},{"id":1475,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"336","name":"Day 15: Yerevan - Garni - Geghard - Etchmiadzin -Yerevan","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Depart Yerevan and drive to Garni, one of the major villages in Armenia famous for its fortress. The fortress is the only pagan sacred place from the 1st century that survived the aggressive introduction of Christianity in the 4th century. Next stop is at the Geghard monastery \u201ca spear\u201d in Armenian), the UNESCO World Heritage Site Medieval buildings are set into a stunning landscape of Azat Valley with its towering cliffs. The Geghard complex is an exceptionally complete medieval monastery in such a remote area of great natural beauty. And what is the most remarkable, there has been no changes here since the entire monastery was completed many centuries ago. Continue to the Holy See of Armenia, Etchmiadzin. Visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral which is believed to be the oldest cathedral in the world, and Zvartnots, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Echmiatsin is also the residence of the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Catholicos of All Armenians. We return to Yerevan in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"160"},{"id":1476,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2034","name":"Day 16: Yerevan - Khor Virap - Goris","name_option":"Day by day","text":"After breakfast, head to Khor Virap Monastery. Here you will find the best views of Mount Ararat, the main symbol of Armenia and a sacred mountain for Armenians. \r\nContinue to Areni, a city known for producing famous Armenian wine from pomegranate and apricot. Here we will taste various fruits and berry wines and oghi, Armenian traditional spirit. \r\nReach Goris for dinner and overnight at the hotel.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 22:14:13","order":"170"},{"id":1477,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"345","name":"Day 17: Tatev - Noravank - Yerevan","name_option":"Day by day","text":"In the morning, drive to Tatev Monastery (built in 9-13th centuries). Reach the jewel of medieval Armenian architecture by cableway called \"Wings of Tatev\". It is the longest reversible aerial tramway built in only one section and holds the record for Longest non-stop double track cable car. Enjoy the stunning views before returning to Yerevan. On the way back to the city, we shall visit the famous Noravank Monastery (12th century), beautifully set on the edge of a deep winding gorge of the Arpa River. Drop off at your hotel in Yerevan. In the evening we have a farewell dinner in one of the best restaurants in the city.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"180"},{"id":1478,"ture_id":"98","image_id":"2032","name":"Day 18: Departure from Yerevan, Armenia","name_option":"Day by day","text":"Breakfast, hotel check-out. Transfer to the airport.","active":"1","created_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","updated_at":"2020-01-22 21:46:47","order":"190"}]

Azerbaijan

Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, USA and all European countries have to apply for e-visa (US$ 20 online payment, issued in 24h)

Georgia

No visa to Georgia needed for the citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, USA and all European countries.

Armenia

No visa to Armenia needed for the citizens of Australia, New Zealand, UK, USA and all European countries. Citizens of Canada must pay a visa fee at the border (US$ 6).

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Select dates

Travellers and rooms

Persons:

Rooms:

Accommodations

3-star 4-star

Total: ~~AUD 5770~~

AUD 5770 /per person

Apply price for Club Members This discount will be applied only if you provide a valid World of Discoveries Club Member certificate on your name

Send an enquiry

Map

What's included

Accommodation

Centrally located hand-picked hotels 3* or 4* (twin sharing)

On day 4 only 4* hotel is available

On day 16 only 3* hotel is available

Our 4* package means best of the best 4-star hotels including award-winning "Rooms Hotel" in Stepantsminda

Meals

Breakfasts daily at the hotels (except the day of arrival)

Dinners on days 1, 6, 17

Lunches on days 4, 5, 13, 16

Winemaking and local bread baking master classes on Day 4

Wine tasting in Khareba Winery on day 4

Cooking class in Telavi on day 5

Cognac tasting at Armenian Brandy Factory on day 14

Guided tours

Baku city tour

Tbilisi city tour

Yerevan city tour

All sightseeing as per program with English-speaking guides and all entrance fees included

Transportation

Transfers from/to the airport by a comfort class private car

Group transportation by comfortable comfort class coach

"Wings of Tatev" cable car return tickets

Support

Group tour is fully escorted by an English-speaking tour leader

24/7 phone/WhatsApp support line

English-speaking guides

Meet & greet at the airport

Entrance tickets

All attractions visited during sightseeing tours as per program

Borjomi cable car return tickets (to use during your leisure time)

"Wings of Tatev" cable car

Georgian polyphonic singing and traditional dance show

Not Included

E-visa to Azerbaijan US$ 20

International flights

Meals not mentioned

Optional tours and activities

Personal expenses

Highlights

Adore historical monuments older than Istanbul and Rome

Celebrate beautiful & colorful Tbilisoba festival

Taste unique & opulent Caucasian cuisine & take a cooking master class

Learn about World's oldest winemaking culture, tour the wineries, enjoy wine and cognac tastings.

Caucasian folk show & polyphonic singing: unbelievable cultural experience

Ride "Wings of Tatev" - the longest reversible aerial tramway built in only one section

Take part in grape harvesting & pressing

Learn how to bake the traditional Georgian bread

Immerse yourself into the stunning scenery of the Caucasus Mountains

Book

Our reviews

Victoria Peck

Australia

Thank you to Varya and her team for organising our trip to Russia for World Cup (June 2018). Before the trip, Alex was our main contact. He was very responsive to all our needs and developed a bespoke itinerary for us. Our trip took almost 2 months of planning, thank you Alex for being so patient. During the trip, Varya had a team of dedicated consultants, working 24 hours a day to ensure we were where we needed to be and safe. What was particularly impressive was that every transfer was taken care of and her team rang the drivers to confirm we had been picked up. Thank you Discovery Russia for making our trip to Russia an unforgettable and amazing holiday.

Dave Kendall

Australia

Just travelled to Russia for the World Cup. Discovery Russia was the most organised and professional travel agency I have ever used. Everything was well organised by Discovery Russia from hotels, tours to transportation. Highly recommend anyone travelling to Russia to book through Discovery Russia!!

Chris Balogh

Australia

Discovery Russia has made my World Cup dream a reality and also provided a spectecular tour of Kazan, Samara & Sochi along the way! The team who made it happen were fantastic, organised, attentive and even fulfilled requests like having window seats on all 3 of my domestic flights not to mention the smooth transportations to and from airports.

Steve Giannoress

Australia

Traveled to Russia for the world Cup 2018 with Angelo. Alex and myself with Discovery Russia. They were exceptional in every way, I want to thank Varya , Alex Tati and there team for there support and service during our trip there in Russia. I highly recommend anyone that wants to travel with Discovery to Russia or Balkans to use the great service of the above people, contact Varya to book you in now. Thanks again guys, well done and we all look forward to catching up again in the near future.

Alison Dannish

USA

We just returned from the World Cup in Russia where we followed Team Iran. This involved travel to three different stadiums many miles apart. Thank goodness we booked through Discovery Russia. They arranged our lodging and transport. They even set us up with local English speaking guides to take us to see the interesting and historical sights of this beautiful land. We had a blast. We met new friends, ate great food, drank great vodka and cheered our team on. It was a trip of a lifetime. Thanks to Varya, Tim, Ury, Ruslan, Daria, Alex and the others who helped us to enjoy this part of the world.

Chris McCabe

Australia

Varya and the Discovery Russia staff were amazing. Any pre trip trepidation was quickly dissolved by how safe we felt through our travels. We saw the sights and partied hard with not even a hint of any trouble. The Russian people were so eager to help and make our trip memorable. The language barrier was over come with their willingness to make us feel safe. Thanks Russia memories for ever

William Watt

Australia

What a trip ... the World Cup, five cities, amazing camaraderie, and great tour leadership against the background of one of the globe’s most amazing countries ... Russia. My World Cup tour with Discovery Russia was one of the great experiences of my travel life. The Discovery Russia team provided a wonderful platform with an itinerary both practical and flexible. The local tours in each of the venue cities - Moscow, Kazan, Samara, Sochi and St Petersburg were informative and,importantly, fun. Considering the accommodation pressures created by the huge influx of Cup tourists, the hotels selected by Discovery Russia were more than adequate. Special mention goes to the Grand Hotel Tchaikovsky In St Petersburg. The tour leadership provided by the company was both expert and considerate. Importantly each traveller’s individual enjoyment and safety appeared to be the paramount consideration. This World Cup holiday was meant to be a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience for me but I am now planning for the next Cup. Bring on 2022 in Qatar!

RobynChris Haynes

Australia

We travelled to Russia for the FIFA World Cup in 2018 to follow the Australian Socceroos with Discovery Russia. We had the most fantastic time in an amazing country visiting 5 cities and attending all 3 Socceroos pool games. All travel, accomodation,sightseeing and pre and post game entertainment was organised expertly by the team at Discovery Russia, all travel was coordinated extremely well including airport transfers to and from hotels. Not knowing what to expect in Russia we were pleased with the standard of our accomodation, the locations were excellent and the standard of hotel was great.The great team from Discovery Russia looked after our every need and are to be congratulated for their level of commitment to ensuring our Russian experience was the very best. Thank you all.

Linh Taylor

Australia

We had such a wonderful time traveling with Discovery Russia. We were there for the World Cup in addition to touring. The company did an amazing job at communicating before, during and after. We felt very safe and taken care of our entire stay. We would highly recommend the company.

Gabriel Carvajal

Mexico

My cousin and I attended the first Mexico soccer games of the 2018 World Cup and Discovery Russia was excellent. The lodging accommodations were great and centrally located. The personnel were wonderful. Thank you Tim for taking care of all our request. I was very surprised to received a message at 3 am informing me that our car was outside waiting to transfer us to the airport. That is the level of service that we received from Discovery Russia. Great company that made our trip even more memorable since it was absolutely hassle free.

Rami Selim

Egypt / Australia

Thanks you Abby and Varvara and all the other staff members of World of Discoveries for making our stay in Russia over 2 and a half weeks easy, comfortable and memorable. Thanks for the great organisation with transfers and accommodation. Thanks also for organising a phone sim card for each one in our group. It made our life much easier to stay in touch with each other and with our family and friends back home. We loved our stay in Russia and will certainly come back soon.

Jacinta Ami

Australia

Highly recommend!! Well organised, friendly and knowledgeable staff who go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience! If you ever intend on visiting Russia, definately try this company!

Santiago Angulo

Colombia

We joined the Colombian Team tour during the Russia World Cup. The package was extremely well planned, we got to enjoy 5 cities, museums & attractions, and specially we were able to follow our team during the classifying phase. The World of Discoveries coordinator, Phillip, was excellent, he answered all our inquiries, helped us resolving any issues with the tour and with any other parties, and he was committed to help us have a great time. I will recommend World of Discoveries to anyone looking to visit remote countries, not just from the tourist point of view, but from the authentic local culture!!!

Alison Danesh

Iran / USA

We just returned from the World Cup in Russia where we followed Team Iran. This involved travel to three different stadiums many miles apart. Thank goodness we booked through World of Discoveries (Discovery Russia branch)! They arranged our lodging and transport. They even set us up with local English speaking guides to take us to see the interesting and historical sights of this beautiful land. We had a blast. We met new friends, ate great food, drank great vodka and cheered our team on. It was a trip of a lifetime.

Francisco Caycedo

USA

Travelled to Russia FIFA World Cup 2018 with a family of 4 including (2 boys: 4 and 12 y/o) . What an amazing experience it was! Super well organized, transfers were always on time, hotels were good, we couldn’t ask for a more responsible tour guide, Phillip was awesome and in care of every little detail to make us feel like at home, would recommend the company with no hesitation at all!

Gordon Ketelbey

Australia

Discovery Russia put an excellent tour together. All well organised with lots of side events all unplanned but the focus was on fun. Pity Australia can’t score goals but the party made up for it.

Andrew Wiefler

Australia

I decided to use the Discovery Russia Tour Service of the World Cup after some extensive research into the tour alternatives.
Discovery Russia seemed to differentiate its tour Service by providing a more culturally based service with a healthy dose of Football and Fun.
My experience was that it as well run ie they delivered on their promises. They have a health mix of local staff and Australian staff. The Russian staff had a great empathy for the challenges for us Aussies traveling in a country where you had no language skills they bridged that gap with there wonderful help.
I know there are many alternative tours but Discovery Russia certainly lived up to its name. I felt I discovered part of Russia but there’s plenty more to go!
Overall just a great experience.

You may combine this tour with

All year round

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Our reviews

Alison Danesh

Iran / USA

Katherine Ratcliff

Australia

CENTRAL ASIA, I’LL BE BACK! Central Asia was on my bucket list for years but I was reluctant to travel alone and my partner did not want to go. I found World of Discoveries most helpful in arranging my age/gender travel companion in our small group tour in October 2019. Everything run smooth from inquiry to farewell dinner in Nur-Sultan The tour was good value for money. Most meals included and great. Lots of local experiences. Great people on tour, helpful guides. I would love to return to explore more of Uzbekistan and would love to visit Tajikistan (that was not part of the tour). Yurt experience was just amazing. Such a great scenery and heartily people.

William Watt

Australia

I am a Sydney-based journalist who travelled to the 2018 World Cup with Discovery Russia, the sister company of World of Discoveries. Following is my review of that fabulous experience ... What a trip ... the World Cup, five cities, amazing camaraderie, and great tour leadership against the background of one of the globe’s most amazing countries ... Russia. My World Cup tour with Discovery Russia was one of the great experiences of my travel life. The Discovery Russia team provided a wonderful platform with an itinerary both practical and flexible. The local tours in each of the venue cities - Moscow, Kazan, Samara, Sochi and St Petersburg were informative and, importantly, fun. Considering the accommodation pressures created by the huge influx of Cup tourists, the hotels selected by Discovery Russia were more than adequate. Special mention goes to the Grand Hotel Tchaikovsky In St Petersburg. The tour leadership provided by the company was both expert and considerate. Importantly each traveller’s individual enjoyment and safety appeared to be the paramount consideration. This World Cup holiday was meant to be a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience for me but I am now planning for the next Cup. Bring on 2022 in Qatar!

Oliver William

Australia

Central Asia, beyond ordinary I was very precise regarding locations to visit and things to do and Julie was very attentive putting our private itinerary together. We skipped Tashkent and went straight to ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, each worth a week stay to explore in detail! We then traveled to Pamir Highway which is a restricted access area, lots of papers need to be prearranged. It was well worth. Striking natural beauty absolutely recommend. From Osh, we travel through the most stunning landscapes to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Each parts of the trip, cultural and adventitious, was very well prepared – as much as it was possible for Pamir, of course, with it’s changing weather, severe driving conditions etc. However our local guides served us very well and we really had no stress as all.

Irma Rubenstain

Amazing trip to Mongolia

I can't sing the praises loud enough for the operator and their true welcoming, accommodating and approach. From the time I landed and was met by a driver at the airport to take me to my hotel, to fabulous guide, Boloryuya, who worked, it seemed, 24/7 to make sure this trip was everything I dreamed of. From seeking Takhi wild horses with local resident Neema, to meeting reindeer herdsman while in Lake Kovsgol area, from horse back riding and camel rides to a yurt stay at Gobi desert, everything went as planned and exceeded expectations. September seemed a perfect choice to visit Mongolia. Everything from planning and booking, till the farewell transfer to airport, every team member went above and beyond to make it happened the way it was and I’m sending my appraisal too all of you guys. Choose World of Discoveries when you are in need of adventure beyond the ordinary. You name it, they find a way to make it happen. It was truly amazing.

J. Stone

New Zealand

Xmas in Georgia and Armenia. We wanted a personalized custom vacation to a rarely visited area of the world and found World of Discoveries tour of Armenia and Georgia fit just perfectly. Very well organized and planned, and guides were awesome. Our tour guides in both countries were packed with knowledge of architecture and cultural history, but above all they were friendly and helpful. Rafik in Armenia even took us to his parent’s home in the centre of Yerevan and we enjoyed home-made meals and talks with the locals. It was a very special evening. Be prepared for some long journeys to reach the most exciting destinations in both countries.

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Tbilisoba & 3 Countries Great Celebration, Food, Wine & Sightseeing

Three Countries & an Amazing Festival

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