Yerevan may be a bustling city, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Armenia’s wine heritage. With its centuries-old vineyards, ancient monasteries, and scenic landscapes, Armenia offers a rich wine-tasting experience that’s hard to match. Whether you’re after a guided day trip to historic sites like Khor Virap or a relaxed wine tasting at In Vino, you’ll find options that suit all interests and budgets. One of our favorites is the Small Group Day Trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Areni Winery for its comprehensive coverage and expert guides, offering a perfect blend of history, scenery, and wine in just one day.
Yerevan’s proximity to ancient monasteries and wine regions makes it an ideal hub for exploring Armenia’s wine culture. From private tours that personalize your experience to large group adventures that reveal the country’s natural beauty and historical sites, there’s a wine tour for nearly every taste. The list below covers everything from quick tastings to full-day explorations, helping you choose the best fit for your schedule and interests.
1. Small Group Day Trip to Khor Virap Noravank and Areni Winery
This full-day trip combines Armenian history, stunning scenery, and wine tasting into one memorable experience. It starts from central Yerevan and visits the Khor Virap monastery with its spectacular Mount Ararat views. Then, you’ll explore the Noravank Monastery, perched among red cliffs. The highlight is a visit to the Areni Winery, where sampling local wines is a must. The T’rchuneri (Bird) Cave adds an archaeological twist, home to artifacts dating back over 5500 years, including the world’s oldest leather shoe. The tour includes all entrance fees, light refreshments, and transport in a climate-controlled vehicle. Reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and the trip’s balance of sights and wine. Ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive Armenia experience.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, educational, and fun day, perfect if you want a taste of Armenia’s vineyards, history, and breathtaking landscapes in one go.
2. Yerevan: Khor Virap, Noravank, Cave & Wine Tasting Day Trip
This popular tour offers a compact 9-hour itinerary that hits key Armenia highlights. Starting at Khor Virap, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of Mount Ararat. The journey continues with a visit to the Areni-1 Cave, site of the world’s oldest winery and leather shoe. Then, marvel at Noravank Monastery amid striking red cliffs. The tour includes wine tasting in Areni, with a guide that shares insights into Armenian winemaking. The reviews are glowing, with travelers appreciating the knowledgeable guides and efficient schedule. At just $38 per person, it’s excellent value for those looking to combine sightseeing with wine tasting without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging tour ideal for first-time visitors who want to see Armenia’s cultural and wine treasures in a single day.
3. Day Trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni Cave, Wine Tasting
This tour is a favorite for newcomers, offering 8 to 9 hours of exploration for around $37. It includes the iconic Mount Ararat views from Khor Virap, the spectacular cliffs of Gnishik Canyon, and a visit to the Areni Cave with its ancient artifacts, including the world’s oldest winery. The itinerary naturally combines history, archaeology, and wine, with wine tasting and refreshments included. Guides are bilingual with high praise for their storytelling and friendliness. Perfect for those who want a thorough introduction to Armenia’s wine and religious history without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A prime choice for first-timers eager to combine history, natural beauty, and wine in a relaxed day.
4. Group Tour: Lake Sevan, Hayravank, Noratus, Jermuk, Winery
This extensive 13-14 hour trip takes you to Lake Sevan, often called Armenia’s “blue pearl,” with its high-altitude waters. You’ll visit Hayravank Monastery and the ancient Noratus Cemetery filled with thousands of khachkars (cross-stones). Jermuk’s mineral waters add a healthful twist, and a local winery provides a tasting experience. The guide makes the journey smooth, explaining the significance of each site. Reviewers love the scenic drive, the variety of sights, and the included wine tasting. The longer duration suits travelers wanting an immersive Armenia experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full day of diverse sights combined with Armenia’s famous wine and mineral waters.
5. Day Trip to Tatev: Tatev Monastery, Shaki waterfall, Wine Tasting
At around $48, this full-day southern Armenia adventure includes a spectacular ride on the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest cable car. The 9th-century Tatev Monastery offers sweeping views, and Shaki Waterfall provides a peaceful mountain setting. The tour wraps up with a wine tasting in the region’s vineyards, giving you a taste of local varieties. Travelers love the scenic cable car ride and the fact that guides are fluent in English. It’s ideal for those wanting to combine nature, history, and wine into one memorable day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography lovers and history enthusiasts who also want a genuine wine experience in Armenia.
6. Group Tour: Hin Areni Winery, Tatev (wayback on Ropeway), Khndzoresk Caves
This 14 to 15-hour tour offers a deep dive into Armenia’s wine and historic sites. Starting at the Hin Areni Winery, you’ll sample local wines in the country’s oldest winemaking region. The Tatev Monastery and Wings of Tatev cable car are highlights, along with the Khndzoresk caves. The inclusion of all entrance fees and transport makes it a comprehensive option. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and well-organized schedule. Best suited for travelers who want a complete Armenia experience, with plenty of time to explore ancient monasteries and scenic landscapes.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history and wine lovers who don’t mind a long day, with a good mix of natural and archaeological sights.
7. Group Tour: Shaki Waterfall, Tatev Monastery & Ropeway, Hin Areni Winery
This 13-14 hour tour combines nature, history, and wine in one seamless experience. You visit the stunning Shaki Waterfall, ride the Wings of Tatev cable car, and enjoy wine tasting at Hin Areni. The scenic drives and comprehensive itinerary make it a favorite among travelers seeking variety. With friendly guides and smooth logistics, it’s good for first-timers eager to see the best of southern Armenia.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a balanced taste of Armenian natural beauty, medieval architecture, and wine.
8. Group Tour: Dilijan, Lake Parz, Makaravank Monastery, Winery
Dubbed “Armenia’s Switzerland,” this 10-11 hour trip offers a lush escape. You’ll walk around Dilijan’s old town, relax at Lake Parz, and explore the Makaravank Monastery. The tour also includes wine tasting at a local winery. Reviewers note the beautiful scenery and the friendly guide who explains Armenia’s architectural and cultural history. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a blend of natural scenery and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Great for those who enjoy nature walks and monastic architecture combined with local wine.
9. Day Trip to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Ijevan Wine Brandy Factory
This 9-10 hour tour explores northern Armenia’s mountain lakes and monasteries. Starting with Lake Sevan, you’ll visit Haghartsin Monastery and enjoy tastings at the Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory. The factory visit is a highlight, offering insights into Armenia’s distilling traditions. For just over $35, this tour offers a good mix of cultural, natural, and gastronomic experiences. Reviewers appreciate the small group size and the expert guide. Perfect for a day packed with history and local flavors.
Bottom Line: A well-priced option for those interested in Armenian wine, brandy, and scenic landscapes.
10. Yerevan: Tatev Day Trip with Shaki Waterfall & Wine Tasting
This 14-hour full-day tour includes the Tatev Monastery, Shaki Waterfall, and wine tasting. The Wings of Tatev cable car provides incredible views of the Vorotan Gorge, making it a crowd favorite. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive tour with plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxing wine experience at the end.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to see Armenia’s most iconic sites alongside a relaxing wine tasting.
11. Group Tour: Saghmosavank, Wine Yard, Echmiadzin, Zvartnots
This 7-8 hour tour combines religious architecture and local wine. Starting from Saghmosavank Monastery, it visits Echmiadzin Cathedral and the Zvartnots ruins. The wine yard stop adds a flavor of Armenia’s wine-making traditions. Reviewers commend the organized schedule and friendly guides. Suitable for those with limited time but wanting a taste of culture and wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a shorter but rich experience of Armenia’s monasteries and wineries.
12. Yerevan: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, & Wine/Brandy Factory Day Trip
This 10-hour tour explores north Armenia’s lakes and monasteries, including Lake Sevan, Haghartsin Monastery, and the Ijevan Wine Brandy Factory. Travelers enjoy the local wine tasting and the scenic drive. Reviewers mention the comfortable transport and knowledgeable guide. Suitable for those looking for a mid-length trip with cultural and gastronomic highlights.
Bottom Line: Great for combining natural beauty with Armenian wine and brandy.
13. Private tour to Hin Areni winery, Tatev monastery & ropeway, Khndzoresk caves
This private 13-14 hour experience emphasizes personalized service. You’ll visit Hin Areni Winery, Tatev Monastery, and the Khndzoresk caves. The door-to-door transfers and flexible stops make it ideal for travelers who prefer a customized experience. The guide’s friendly and informative approach is often praised, and the tour offers an excellent balance of wine, culture, and natural wonders.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a luxury, flexible, and personalized Armenia tour.
14. Private tour to Hin Areni winery, Shaki waterfall, Tatev monastery & Karahunj
This expansive private tour covers six sites in one day, including the Shaki Waterfall, Tatev Monastery, and the Karahunj archaeological site. It appeals to travelers who want to maximize their time and see a wide variety of Armenia’s natural and historic sites. The hotel pickup and flexible itinerary add to its appeal.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive, tailored Armenia experience with wine as part of the adventure.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Yerevan
When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For a full-day immersion into Armenia’s wine and history, tours like the Small Group Day Trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Areni Winery or the Group Tour: Hin Areni Winery, Tatev (wayback on Ropeway), Khndzoresk Caves are excellent choices. If you prefer a more personalized experience, the private options can be tailored to your pace and interests, especially the Private tour to Hin Areni winery, Tatev monastery & ropeway, Khndzoresk caves. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordability of the Yerevan: Armenian Wine Tasting at In Vino, offering an intimate tasting in a relaxed setting.
Timing matters too—spring and fall are the best for weather, but Armenia’s winemaking is a year-round experience. Book early during peak seasons to secure your spot, especially for popular tours like the Tatev trip or private excursions.
Final Thoughts
Yerevan is a gateway to some of Armenia’s best wine experiences, from full-day adventures to intimate tastings. If you want a comprehensive trip that includes monasteries, caves, and wine, the Small Group Day Trip to Khor Virap, Noravank, and Areni Winery is hard to beat. For those seeking more personalized attention, private tours like the Hin Areni winery and Tatev private experience offer flexibility and tailored sightseeing.
Whether you’re after a quick tasting or a full-day exploration, Armenia’s wine tours deliver a taste of history, scenery, and some of the most distinctive wines in the world. Book early, plan wisely, and enjoy every sip and view along the way.