Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, Armenia
Yerevan, Armenia

Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour

Outty Ranking 69 4.9 · 13 traveler reviews6 hoursFrom $91
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Outty Ranking

69/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour worth booking?

Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour is a 6-hour experience in Yerevan, Armenia, from $91 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 13 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
69 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (13)
Duration
6 hours
From
$91 per person

"Khor Virap Monastery offers the most breathtaking views of the Biblical Mt. Ararat. The monastery holds significant religious and historical importance - sight where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned and Christianity took its start in Armenia. Echmiadzin Cathedral (literal translation: The descent of the Only Begotten) is the center of the Armenian Apostolic church originally built in the early 3rd century BC and a number of sources also state that Etchmiadzin is the oldest official Christian church in the entire world. This is your chance to visit and explore such a unique and one-of-a-kind place in the world! The church of St. Hripsime is dedicated to one of the 40 virgins who escaped from the Roman empire. Standing largely intact since its construction, the church has been widely admired for its architecture, considered a masterpiece of classical Armenian architecture, it has influenced many other Armenian churches.

What you get

    About this experience

    "Khor Virap Monastery offers the most breathtaking views of the Biblical Mt. Ararat. The monastery holds significant religious and historical importance - sight where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned and Christianity took its start in Armenia. Echmiadzin Cathedral (literal translation: The descent of the Only Begotten) is the center of the Armenian Apostolic church originally built in the early 3rd century BC and a number of sources also state that Etchmiadzin is the oldest official Christian church in the entire world. This is your chance to visit and explore such a unique and one-of-a-kind place in the world! The church of St. Hripsime is dedicated to one of the 40 virgins who escaped from the Roman empire. Standing largely intact since its construction, the church has been widely admired for its architecture, considered a masterpiece of classical Armenian architecture, it has influenced many other Armenian churches.

    What's included

    Included

    • On-board WiFi
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Bottled water
    • Hotel Pick up and Drop off

    Not included

    • Lunch (upon request)
    • Professional guide (upon request)
    • Entrance Tickets

    What you'll see and do

    1. Khor Virap

      The Khor Virap monastery is located about an hour’s drive away from the capital Yerevan, and offers an amazing view of Armenia’s defining symbol – the majestic Ararat. “Khor Virap” translates as “deep dungeon”, and was built of the place of the former royal prison, located on the historical site of Artashat. It was this very prison in which they kept Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for a whole 13 years.

      45 minutes here

    2. Saint Hripsime Church

      You will visit the St. Hripsime church, which was built on the sepulcher of a Christian nun Hripsime who fled from the Roman Empire and was killed in Armenia. This amazing building has stood upright from the day of its construction since 618 A.D, making it one of the oldest standing churches in the world.

      30 minutes here

    3. Saint Gayane Church

      Five minutes drive away will be our next spot: the 7th century church of St. Gayane. Gayane was the nanny of Hripsime, and shared Hripsime’s tragic fate.

      30 minutes here

    4. You will be able to observe the first world’s first Christian Cathedral – the Holy Ejmiatsin, built in 301-304. According to the legend, Jesus Christ descended on the same spot where the Dissention Altar stands today, where Gregory the Illuminator ordered to build the church. The cathedral is a symbol of Armenian national identity and heritage, reflecting the country's deep-rooted Christian tradition.

      45 minutes here

    5. Zvartnots Temple

      Zvartnots Cathedral, now in ruins, is a 7th-century centrally planned aisled tetraconch type Armenian cathedral built by the order of Catholicos Nerses the Builder from 643-652. According to legend, the name "Zvartnots" means "celestial angels," inspired by the belief that angels once watched over the temple. It is included in the UNESCO heritage list. In fact, all of the churches included in the tour, are listed on the UNESCO World’s Cultural Heritage Sites.

      45 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Options you can book

    • Without Guide - up to 4 pax

      Without Guide - up to 4 pax Pickup included

    • With Guide - up to 3 pax

      With guide Pickup included

    • With Guide - up to 15 pax

      With Guide - up to 15 pax Pickup included

    • Without Guide - up to 15 pax

      Without Guide - up to 15 pax Pickup included

    • With Guide - up to 7 pax

      With Guide - up to 7 pax Pickup included

    • Without Guide - up to 8 pax

      Without Guide - up to 8 pax Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    ru, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Yerani Travel LLC

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Possible languages: English, Russian. In case the tour is organized in other language, changes of the prices are possible.

    Photos

    Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 2Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 3Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 4Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 5Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 6Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour in Yerevan, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 13 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Small groups

    3 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    13 verified traveler reviews for Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    12
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    cristinarN4496MK · September 2026

    Perfect

    Everything has been perfect! I would book with them again without a doubt

    Response from the operator: Dear Cristina, Thank you so much for your kind words! ❤️ We’re delighted to hear that everything was perfect and that you would book with us again. We’ll be happy to welcome you back to Armenia!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    ArturoSantos_M · August 2026

    Armenia: The Undiscovered Jewel

    Very informative. A very good introduction to Armenian culture and history. It is seeing the past in the the 21st century.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind feedback. We’re delighted that the experience gave you a meaningful insight into Armenia’s rich heritage and history. We hope to welcome you again on another journey.

    via Viator

    _S1440FV · August 2026

    A song for those words

    Private office Home My songs My songs Rate the song× Beautiful Lyrical Waltz v1 Text: ......... We don't live with continents, countries, cities nearby, but, throwing... (full text) Duration: 03:26 Date of creation: 16.08.2026 14:48 (v 3.0) Share the song: Create audio .wav Create a Minus Create Multitrack Create a video .... ... We live without thinking we're anywhere near Continents, countries, cities, But casting a glance around the world We dream of getting there someday. Plane, hiding distances Five o’clock, boarding – Yerevan Here, one of my dreams has come true. Visit Armenia and I got here And the next morning, a meeting at Cascade's We are greeted there by Gaiane In Horus Virap we really need to go there, To know something about the country Watching the monastery this afternoon Ripsimae was named after the saint No, it's not a fairy tale, it definitely was. We listened to the story of Gaiane There was lunch at a beautiful restaurant. We chatted together at teatime Had tea, just so you know. More than I wanted and less than I could have, The most beautiful thing I've seen today, Echmiazid Cathedral Believe him, there will be a thousand No, not so much, he's worth more. We also visited the Temple of Zvartnots Time has passed like hail On a day like this in Armenia, we were The day the grapes were holy ... ...... We live and know, somewhere near Continents, countries, cities Looked at the map. Got it. To Yerevan, I'll buy a ticket there... ..... .....

    Response from the operator: Большое спасибо за такие тёплые слова и прекрасные строки! Нам очень приятно, что поездка оставила у вас такие яркие впечатления. Будем рады новой встрече!

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Andrew_D · August 2026

    Can’t be more convenient

    Excellent service. Smooth, clean and quiet car. Great A/C. Safe and on time. No rush whatsoever. Highly professional. Spotless car. Great sites.

    Response from the operator: Dear guest, Thank you very much for your excellent review! We’re delighted to hear that you were satisfied with the service, especially the clean and comfortable car, punctuality, safety, and professional approach. We’re also glad you enjoyed the sites along the way. Your kind feedback means a lot to our team, and we hope to welcome you again on your next visit to Armenia!

    via Viator

    Aykun_B · January 2026

    Good timing, great...

    Good timing, great experience! We had great time with comfortable transfer amenities and good communication. Thank you!

    Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your kind feedback! We are delighted to hear that you had a great experience and enjoyed the comfortable transfer and good communication. We truly appreciate your review and hope to welcome you again on another memorable journey.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    6 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $91 to $272
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Yerani Travel LLC, who run 30 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Yerani Travel LLC runs

    Why this scores 69

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)42
    Booking momentum (14% weight)34
    Value for money (12% weight)73
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Yerevan.

    How much does Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $91 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Yerevan usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Yerevan is not rushed.

    Is Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 13 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Yerevan, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Yerevan can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Yerevan and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Yerevan within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Yerevan?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Yerevan experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin), Group Tour: Khor Virap, Garni temple, Geghard, Lavash baking, Group Tour: Garni pagan temple, Geghard monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Yerevan?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Yerevan?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    Included: On-board WiFi; In-vehicle air conditioning; Bottled water; and Hotel Pick up and Drop off. Not included: Lunch (upon request); Professional guide (upon request); and Entrance Tickets. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 374 listed pickup locations in and around Yerevan. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour offered in?

    +

    It is offered in Russian and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    Across 13 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, small groups. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour?

    +

    There are 6 options to choose from, including Without Guide - up to 4 pax, With Guide - up to 3 pax, With Guide - up to 15 pax, Without Guide - up to 15 pax. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Khor Virap, Echmiadzin Cathedral and Zvartnots Private Tour.

    Pick your date