16 Must-Try Tours In Areni

Areni isn’t just about the wine, though that’s certainly a highlight. It’s a region packed with fascinating archaeological sites, stunning monasteries, and scenic landscapes that beg for exploration. What makes it especially appealing is the variety of tours available — from comprehensive full-day experiences to intimate private trips, each offering a unique window into Armenia’s rich culture and history. We particularly like the From Yerevan: Khor Virap Monastery, Winery & Birds Cave Tour for its mix of pilgrimage, archaeology, and wine-tasting, all with spectacular views of Mount Ararat. Whether you’re a history lover, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking breathtaking scenery, Areni’s tours deliver a memorable taste of Armenia.

Quick Overview

This list covers a broad spectrum of experiences. There are full-day group tours that cover multiple monasteries and natural sights, like the Khor Virap, Noravank, Jermuk, Areni wine tasting, perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Armenia in one day. For those seeking a more personalized experience, private day trips combine the highlights with added flexibility, such as the Private Day Trip to Jermuk, Noravank & Khor Virap. Wine lovers can enjoy dedicated winery tours like the Wine tour Areni Noravank Khoravirap, Areni cave, which focus on Armenia’s famed vineyards and ancient wine-making traditions. For a mix of culture and adventure, the Tatev Ropeway and Monastery tour offers scenic rides and archaeological exploration.

1. From Yerevan: Khor Virap Monastery, Winery & Birds Cave Tour

Starting at around $38 per person for a full 10-hour day, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of Armenia’s spiritual, archaeological, and vinicultural highlights. It begins with a guided walk through the historic Khor Virap monastery, famous for its stunning view of Mount Ararat. Then, you’ll explore the Areni-1 Cave, home to ancient artifacts and the world’s oldest leather shoe, which makes for a fascinating archaeological stop. The day includes a visit to Hin Areni winery for a tasting of Armenia’s legendary wines, and a walk through Noravank, notable for its red rock cliffs and the only 2-storied church in Armenia. What sets this tour apart is the combination of history, nature, and local flavor all in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a detailed introduction to Armenia’s spiritual and cultural landmarks without rushing.

Bottom line: For a balanced day of sightseeing, wine, and archaeology with expert guidance, this tour delivers great value at $38 — especially with its iconic Mount Ararat views.

2. Group tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Jermuk, Areni wine tasting

At $38 per person for about 12 hours, this group tour is ideal for travelers eager to cover Armenia’s classic sites plus some relaxing moments. It kicks off in Yerevan, then heads south to Khor Virap, where the panoramic view of Mount Ararat is incredible. Next, you visit Noravank with its intricate stone carvings. The trip continues to the resort town of Jermuk, famous for its mineral waters and waterfalls, culminating in a wine tasting at Areni Winery. The itinerary balances cultural exploration with leisure, making it suitable for first-time visitors who want a broad overview. The guided tour of Jermuk’s waterfalls and the cable car ride add a fun, scenic element.

Bottom line: A solid value for those who want Armenia’s highlights in one day, with enough time for breaks and relaxing scenery along the way.

3. Enlightened Armenia: Echmiadzin, Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni

For $67, this all-inclusive 10-hour cultural and wine tour offers a deep dive into Armenia’s religious heartland and vineyards. It begins with St. Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, then moves to Khor Virap for its stunning mountain views. The day continues with Noravank, famous for its red rock formations, and a visit to the Areni Winery for wine tasting. The tour includes a homemade lunch with a local family, adding a personal touch to the experience. The guide’s extensive knowledge makes this trip especially enriching.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day combining religion, history, and wine — all with a friendly local touch.

4. Private Day Trip to Jermuk, Noravank & Khor Virap

At $106 per person for a 9-hour private adventure, this tour offers flexibility and personalized attention. It starts directly from Yerevan, with a quick visit to Khor Virap for panoramic views. Then, you’ll explore Noravank, famous for its red cliffs and medieval architecture. The highlight is Jermuk, where you can enjoy some free time and sightseeing, including the waterfall. This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide. The private format makes it easier to customize your pace and focus on your interests.

Bottom line: A great choice for those who want a private, flexible itinerary that emphasizes natural beauty and iconic monasteries.

5. Private: Noravank, Tatev (monastery, ropeway), Karahunj

For $245 per group, this 13-hour trip covers some of Armenia’s most stunning sites, including the Tatev Monastery and its famous ropeway. You’ll also visit Karahunj, often called the Armenian Stonehenge, with its mysterious ancient megaliths. The tour’s focus on medieval architecture and ancient sites makes it perfect for history and archaeology buffs. The scenic views aboard the Tatev ropeway are a major highlight, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the region’s dramatic landscape.

Bottom line: An immersive experience for those wanting to explore Armenia’s archaeological marvels with a private guide and scenic cable car ride.

6. Tatev (Shaki waterfall), Noravank, Areni wine tasting, Khor Virap

At $230 for a group of up to 4, this tour combines scenic waterfall walks, monastic ruins, and a wine tasting with a visit to Khor Virap. The tour features the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway, which offers dramatic views of the Shaki Waterfall (seasonal). The itinerary balances adventure and relaxation and is perfect for those who want a full day of memorable sights and experiences in comfortable, private transport.

Bottom line: For travelers seeking a private, scenic, and wine-rich day, this tour ticks all the boxes.

7. Wine tour Areni Noravank Khoravirap, Areni cave

This 6-hour tour for about $130 groups up to 4 focuses on Armenia’s wine-making heritage and archaeological sites. It includes visits to Khor Virap, the Areni Cave (famous for early wine production), and Noravank. The highlight is the wine tasting at Areni Winery and a visit to the Areni-1 Cave, where ancient wine artifacts were discovered. It offers a compact but rich experience for those who want to learn about Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions firsthand.

Bottom line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a focused exploration of Armenia’s wine history combined with scenic monasteries.

8. Khor Virap, Areni winery, Noravank, Jermuk city, waterfall

At $171 for a group of up to 3, this tour covers Khor Virap, Areni winery or cave, Noravank, and Jermuk’s waterfalls. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience both cultural landmarks and natural beauty. The stops are well spaced, allowing plenty of time for photos and exploring. The Jermuk waterfall adds a refreshing element, and the focus on local nature and history makes it appealing for active travelers.

Bottom line: A balanced day for those who want a mix of religious sites and scenic outdoor spots.

9. Wine tour: 4 wine factories & wineries in one day

For $330, this luxury tour takes you through four top wineries in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region, including Tushpa Wine Cellar and Momik WineCube. It’s perfect for serious wine lovers eager to taste a wide variety of local vintages and see the production process firsthand. The tour provides extensive tastings and insights into Armenia’s wine industry with a comfortable Mercedes vehicle.

Bottom line: Excellent value for dedicated wine enthusiasts seeking a full day of tastings and vineyard visits.

10. Discover the art of pottery under the guidance of an Armenian

This 2-hour workshop costs just $50 per group and offers a hands-on experience led by passionate artisans. You’ll learn clay molding, decorating, and scarf design, gaining insight into Armenia’s ancient ceramic traditions. It’s a creative, relaxing activity suitable for small groups or couples wanting a memorable, personal souvenir.

Bottom line: Perfect for craft lovers or those wanting a quick, authentic cultural activity.

11. Private Trip: Tatev Ropeway-Shaki Waterfall-Wine Degustation

At $142 per person for 11 hours, this private trip offers a personalized tour of Tatev, Shaki Waterfall, and wine tasting at Areni. The Tatev Ropeway, the longest in the world, provides spectacular aerial views. The mix of nature, monasteries, and wine makes it ideal for travelers who want an exclusive, flexible day.

Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a private, scenic, and wine-rich experience with plenty of time for photography.

12. Wine route

This 8-hour tour at $290 per person takes you through Noravank, Momik wine cubes, Trinity canyon vineyards, and Old Bridge winery. It’s designed for wine explorers eager to visit several top wineries, taste a variety of organic and homemade wines, and enjoy spectacular scenery. The tour combines wine, nature, and local culture with a comfortable itinerary.

Bottom line: For serious wine tastings paired with Armenian landscapes, this tour offers good value and depth.

13. Armenia: Entry Ticket to Magellan Cave near Areni

At just $14, this 35-minute guided tour is a quick, cool escape underground. You’ll explore 350 meters of limestone caves, see fossils, and marvel at ancient formations. It’s an easy add-on for those staying in Areni or nearby, offering a glimpse into the region’s geological past.

Bottom line: Simple, inexpensive, and fascinating — ideal for curious travelers interested in geology.

14. From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Areni Winery, and Noravank Tour

For about $148, this 9-hour tour covers the core sights: Khor Virap, Areni Winery, and Noravank. It’s a classic choice for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day. The stops are well-paced, with enough time for photos and brief explorations.

Bottom line: A dependable, all-around Armenian experience, great for first-time visitors.

15. From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Noravank and Areni-1 Cave Day Tour

At $250 for a 8-hour day, this tour emphasizes archaeological sites, including the Areni-1 Cave, where ancient winemaking artifacts were discovered. Combined with Khor Virap and Noravank, it’s ideal for history buffs eager to explore ancient Armenia’s roots.

Bottom line: For a deep-dive into Armenia’s archaeological past coupled with iconic monasteries, this day trip is a top pick.

16. Khor Virap and Noravank Monasteries Tour

This 6.5-hour tour at $295 per group is straightforward and focused. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap and the dramatic red rocks of Noravank. The visit includes a stop at a local winery for tasting.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a shorter, scenic day focusing on Armenia’s most famous monasteries with wine included.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting the best tour for your trip to Areni, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you love wine and archaeology, the Wine tour Areni Noravank Khoravirap, Areni cave offers an in-depth experience. For a personalized journey, the Private Day Trip to Jermuk, Noravank & Khor Virap provides flexibility and comfort. Those interested in history and architecture will appreciate the Enlightened Armenia tour, which includes visits to religious sites and a home-cooked lunch.

For travelers wanting scenic rides and outdoor adventures, the Tatev Ropeway and monastery or the Shaki Waterfall tour are excellent choices. Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, as these tours are popular and fill quickly.

Areni offers a remarkable selection of tours suited to all interests — from ancient caves and monasteries to scenic waterfalls and world-class wineries. Whether you prefer a guided group, a private experience, or a hands-on craft workshop, there’s plenty to explore. Our top recommendations include the From Yerevan: Khor Virap Monastery, Winery & Birds Cave Tour for its perfect blend of history and flavor, and Wine tour Areni Noravank Khoravirap, Areni cave for wine lovers looking for a deep dive into Armenia’s ancient traditions. No matter what you choose, early booking is advised to secure your spot in these popular experiences.