Haghpat is one of Armenia’s most captivating destinations, especially for travelers interested in history, architecture, and stunning mountain scenery. Its UNESCO-listed monasteries and fascinating cave complexes make it a prime spot for day trips and cultural tours. We especially like the Yerevan: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, and Aramyans Tour, which offers a comprehensive day of exploration, blending impressive architecture with unique natural sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking scenic views, Haghpat’s diverse experiences deliver.
If you’re planning a trip, you’ll find a variety of options—guided day trips, private multi-day tours, transfers with sightseeing, and even tours that combine Armenia with Georgia. In this guide, we cover the best tours in Haghpat, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you choose the right experience for your travel style.
1. Yerevan: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, and Aramyans Tour
For around $47 per person, the Yerevan: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, and Aramyans Tour offers an all-day deep dive into Armenia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Starting early, this 14-hour guided journey takes you through several highlights, including the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, famed for their medieval architecture and spiritual significance. The tour also includes a visit to the Zarni-Parni Cave Complex, which is a fascinating natural and archaeological site, unlike most standard monastery visits.
What makes this tour stand out? The combination of cultural landmarks and stunning mountain scenery ensures a well-rounded experience. The guide shares stories about the monasteries’ construction and their role in Armenian history, adding depth to your visit. You’ll also explore the Akhtala Fortress, known for its 10th-century art and fortress walls, and enjoy scenic views along the way.
With a solid 4.8/5 rating from 69 reviews, travelers praise this tour’s expert guides and value for money. The itinerary is packed, including stops for photos, guided tours, and free time to explore. The logistical flow is smooth, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive day without rushing. Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want an authentic, full-day experience with expert commentary and scenic highlights.
2. Tbilisi transfer: Haghpat, Sanahin stops to or from Yerevan
Travel in style and comfort with this Tbilisi transfer, which includes stops at Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries. Designed mainly for those moving between Georgia and Armenia, this 12-hour transfer offers a convenient way to see Armenia’s UNESCO sites en route to Tbilisi. The focus here isn’t just transportation; it’s a chance to enjoy the scenery and history without the hassle of planning separate excursions.
This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see key sights. The scenery along the route is spectacular, and the guides point out interesting features along the way. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, making it a good choice for travelers who prefer a relaxed, hassle-free transfer with sightseeing built in.
Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth coordination and the opportunity to see Armenia’s beautiful mountains and monasteries during a transfer. It’s best suited for those on a tight schedule or connecting between Georgia and Armenia. Bottom line: An efficient way to see the UNESCO sites while traveling comfortably between countries.
3. Haghpat, Sanahin & Odzun, Mendz Er or Zarni – Parni Caves
This private two-day tour (11 hours) takes you deep into Armenia’s Lori Province, exploring not only the famous monasteries but also the Mendz Er and Zarni-Parni caves. For $171 per group, this experience is tailored for travelers who want to spend more time absorbing the landscape and culture at a leisurely pace.
The tour includes visits to Odzun Church, known for its impressive size and architecture, and the Mendz Er Cave, offering spectacular views and a chance to see Armenia’s natural beauty mixed with history. The Zarni-Parni caves provide a natural contrast to the monasteries, with their archaeological significance and scenic vistas.
Guests often praise the guide’s knowledge and the variety of sights included. “The combination of UNESCO monasteries and the caves made for a perfect balance of history and nature,” one reviewer noted. The itinerary also covers the Old Sanahin Bridge, adding to the historical richness.
This tour is best suited for travelers who like multi-day trips, want to explore Armenia’s green landscapes, and enjoy a mix of cultural and natural attractions. The private setup allows for personalized attention and a flexible schedule. Bottom line: Perfect for those who want an in-depth exploration of Lori’s monasteries and caves with a relaxed pace.
4. Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi visit Sanahin, Haghpat, Akhtala
This 11-hour tour combines sightseeing with transport, making it ideal for travelers heading from Yerevan to Tbilisi. Starting at the Envoy Hostel, it includes stops at Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries, both UNESCO sites, along with Akhtala Monastery. The tour emphasizes convenience—getting you from one capital to the other while squeezing in Armenia’s best-known religious sites.
For around $119, the value lies in the combined experience of sightseeing and transit. The guided visits include detailed tours of each site, with ample time for photos and exploration. The homemade BBQ lunch adds a local flavor to the day, and scenic mountain views provide memorable photo opportunities.
Guests note that the logistics are smooth, and the tour offers a deeper understanding of Armenia’s cultural landscape before arriving in Georgia. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to maximize both transportation convenience and cultural exposure. Bottom line: A practical choice for those on a tight schedule, seeking an efficient way to see Armenia’s UNESCO treasures en route to Georgia.
5. Armenian Treasures: Tbilisi to Lake Sevan & Haghpat
For travelers seeking a full-day adventure, the Armenian Treasures tour offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights. Starting from Tbilisi, this trip explores Lake Sevan with its breathtaking views and the Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tour includes a brandy tasting—a delightful addition—and visits to Sevanavank Monastery. The guide shares stories about Armenia’s traditions and history, making the experience more meaningful. The tour appeals to those interested in authentic local cuisine, with options to try traditional dishes during the day.
Rated highly, one traveler raved about the guide’s deep knowledge, noting, “Iraki was a fantastic guide, showing us some well-known spots and local specialties.” The tour’s length and itinerary make it suitable for a day trip, with some flexibility for additional stops.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Armenia’s lake scenery, cultural sites, and local flavors in one day. Bottom line: An excellent choice for those eager to combine scenic views with culture on a single day.
6. Group tour: Haghpat, Sanahin, Akhtala, Odzun, Mendz Er
This group tour (14 hours) offers a shared adventure through Armenia’s Lori Province. For $42 per person, it provides an affordable way to see Haghpat, Sanahin, Odzun, and Mendz Er Cave, along with Akhtala Fortress. The tour focuses on UNESCO-listed medieval architecture and beautiful landscapes.
The itinerary includes guided tours of all major sites, with time for photos and local explanations. The Odzun Church and Mendz Er Cave are highlights that add variety to the experience. Travelers mention the tour’s friendly atmosphere and well-organized schedule.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prefer group settings, this tour balances sightseeing with some free time to explore on your own. The 14-hour duration means a full day of culture, perfect for those with stamina and a curiosity for Armenian history. Bottom line: A cost-effective way to see multiple UNESCO sites with a small group.
$42 per person
7. Armenia: 4-Day Nature and Adventure Tour with Accommodation
For those looking to immerse themselves more fully in Armenia’s natural landscapes, this 4-day adventure tour is a perfect fit. Starting in Yerevan, it combines city sightseeing with outdoor activities like kayaking on Lake Sevan and hiking the Artanish Peninsula.
While not solely focused on Haghpat, this trip includes visits to the Sevanavank Monastery, as well as the Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries. The tour offers guided city tours, scenic hikes, and the opportunity to see Armenia’s diverse geography over four days. Accommodation is included, making it ideal for travelers eager for an active holiday.
Reviewers highlight the beautiful landscapes and the chance to try local cuisine during evenings. The tour’s price of $590 reflects the comprehensive experience, including transportation, lodging, and activities.
Best suited for active travelers interested in outdoor pursuits and cultural sites, this tour is a longer commitment but offers a rich, multi-faceted experience. Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to combine adventure with cultural sightseeing over several days.
$590 per person
8. Discover Armenia Hagpati Sanahin, Akhtala, local dinner
This 9-hour tour (costing $66 per person) offers a well-rounded day visiting Haghpat, Sanahin, and Akhtala. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a focused experience without a long day. The itinerary includes guided visits to the monasteries, known for their medieval architecture and frescoes, followed by a local dinner.
The visit to Akhtala allows you to see its striking frescoes and fortress ruins, while Sanahin and Haghpat showcase Armenia’s religious and cultural history. Reviews note the professional guides and well-organized schedule. The highlight is the chance to enjoy Armenian cuisine after a day of sightseeing.
This tour is suited for travelers with limited time but a strong interest in monastic architecture and Armenian art. It provides a good balance of culture and culinary experience. Bottom line: An efficient, culturally rich day tour for those who want a taste of Armenia’s spiritual and artistic heritage.
$66 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Haghpat
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, available time, and what specifically interests you—whether it’s UNESCO monasteries, natural caves, or multi-day exploration. For a full immersion, the 2-day private tour offers detailed visits to sites, while the day trips from Yerevan are ideal for those with limited time. If you’re planning to go from Georgia to Armenia, the Tbilisi transfer provides a seamless experience.
For travelers interested in combining outdoor activities with sightseeing, the 4-day adventure tour is best. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the group tour for its affordability and shared experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates. Consider your fitness level and interest in history or nature to find the perfect match.
Final Thoughts
Haghpat’s range of tours offers something for every traveler. If you want a comprehensive day trip with expert guides and scenic views, the Yerevan tour is hard to beat. For those wanting a longer, more relaxed exploration, the private two-day trip delivers depth and comfort.
If your schedule is tight, the transfer tour or shorter day trips will suit you well, offering a taste of Armenia’s spiritual sites without the extra fuss. For active travelers, the 4-day adventure tour combines outdoor pursuits with cultural sights, making it a memorable choice.
No matter which tour you pick, Armenia’s monasteries, caves, and mountain scenery are sure to leave a lasting impression. Early booking is advisable, so plan ahead and ensure your trip to Haghpat is smooth, enriching, and truly unforgettable.