
Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 370 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour worth booking?
Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour is a 8-hour experience in Yerevan, Armenia, from $34 per person. It scores 90 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 370 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 90 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (370)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $34 per person
Begin your journey at Khor Virap Monastery, where breathtaking views of Mount Ararat create an unforgettable start. Continue to Armenia’s renowned wine region and explore the Areni-1 Cave, where archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest known winery (over 6,000 years old) and a 5,500-year-old leather shoe. Visit the stunning Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture set among dramatic red rock cliffs. End your day in Areni village, the heart of Armenian winemaking, with a tasting of local wines. Experience wine where it was first created and enjoy a perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor.
What you get
About this experience
Begin your journey at Khor Virap Monastery, where breathtaking views of Mount Ararat create an unforgettable start. Continue to Armenia’s renowned wine region and explore the Areni-1 Cave, where archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest known winery (over 6,000 years old) and a 5,500-year-old leather shoe. Visit the stunning Noravank Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture set among dramatic red rock cliffs. End your day in Areni village, the heart of Armenian winemaking, with a tasting of local wines. Experience wine where it was first created and enjoy a perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor.
What's included
Included
- Guide Service (English, Russian)
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
Not included
- Lunch
- Entrance Ticket to "Areni-1 Cave"
What you'll see and do
Khor Virap
Although there are various historical landmarks in Armenia, the oldest and most well-known is probably the Biblical Mount Ararat. This is why our tour promises a spectacular view from the closest spot possible. 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 prison in which they kept Gregory the Illuminator, the first Armenian Catholicos, for a whole 13 years. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that this place is one of the most sacred spots for Armenians around the world. Likewise, it’s also the closest point to the Mount Ararat from Armenia; very often this spot becomes the number 1 reason to visit our country!
60 minutes here
Noravank Monastery
Another place that can’t be missed is Noravank. It is one of the gems of medieval Armenian architecture, nestled high among the stunning brick-red cliffs in the end of the Gnishik Canyon. Here you will see the one and only depiction of God the Father in Armenia, which is just as astonishing as the face of Jesus Christ that appeared on the dome of the Church’s narthex. Built by Orbelian noblemen, it stands out among our churches as the sepulcher of this noble family, making it unique since it was absolutely prohibited to bury people inside a church since the 5th century.
30 minutes here
The tour will take you to the Areni – 1 “Birds” Cave. In 2008, archeologists discovered several of the world’s oldest artifacts, including a leather shoe and a winery. The site, overlooking Arpa River near the town of Areni, is claimed to date mostly to the Early Bronze Age (around 5,000-6,000 years ago). It also contains evidence of elaborate burial rituals and agricultural practices.
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Areni
What concerns the “finishing touch” to this tour, you will be given a chance to taste and even purchase Armenia’s renowned Areni wine, made from the oldest grape variety in the whole world. The wine is available in several wineries in the actual town of Areni itself, which we will make a stop at before finishing the trip. As part of the tour, guests will taste the most famous dishes of traditional Armenian cuisine. The dishes are unique with their taste and appetizing aroma, characteristic only for Armenian cuisine.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Yerevan
Cascade complex, in front of the Al.Tamanyan statue.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Cascade complex, in front of the Al.Tamanyan statue.
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
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 19 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Yerani Travel LLC
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- For security reasons the trip might be modified or cancelled in case of bad weather conditions.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 369 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
369 verified traveler reviews for Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Day Tour
We had a great day. The tour was well organised and our guide Anastasia did an amazing job. Time was flying and still we had enough time at each spot.
via Tripadvisor
Choose this tour!
This local tour is highly recommended for all travellers. Sightseeing time was well arranged. Our guide was humorous, friendly, helpful and patiently introduced every attraction. The driver was amazing — he drives safely, kept and returned my belongings that I accidentally left in the car. The car is comfortable with AC and WiFi. I’m really glad I booked this tour and gained lots of lovely memories!
via Viator
Excellent, well -planned tour
Very good tour, excellent, knowledgeable tour guide who spoke fluent English, would certainly recommend.
Response from the operator: Thank you for joining us. We’re delighted that you enjoyed the experience and felt well guided throughout the day. Your recommendation is greatly appreciated.
via Tripadvisor
Outstanding Full Day Tour!
If you have a full day for a tour out of Yerevan, make it this one! The best thing about it was our your guide “Nectar” who was full of energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge and made this a fantastic day! The tour took 10 hours but the time was managed well. We had a clean Mercedes-Benz “Sprinter” van which was comfortable and well stocked with water - and the AC worked great. All the stops were fun, but note that both monasteries involved steep climbs and the cave entrance was accessed by a 100 step staircase, so if you have limited mobility, choose a different tour. Our driver was safe and efficient, but the best thing about the day was our tour guide Nectar. Expect beautiful views of Mount Ararat, a wonderful lunch next to a small lake, fun and delicious wine tasting, and a visit to an active archeological site! Amazing day!
Response from the operator: Thank you for choosing to spend your day exploring Armenia with us. We’re delighted that the journey was comfortable, well organized, and filled with memorable experiences. It was a pleasure having you along, and we truly appreciate your recommendation.
via Tripadvisor
Prompt and streamlined tour
This trip was great and each place was not too long where you stand around waiting. I was particularly thankful with the booking process as I could not make it the day I had booked bc of issues with my ride. The company offered to allow me to take the tour the next day which was great. Everything was streamlined and prompt. Lunch spot was also better than expected with traditional Armenian food, salad, and coffee/tea.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience. We truly appreciate your trust and are glad we could make your day enjoyable and hassle-free.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 130
- Verdict
- Exceptional
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 runsWhy this scores 90
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Yerevan.
How much does Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour cost?
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Prices start at $34 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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour take?
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Plan for about 8 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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 90 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 370 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Yerevan, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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Around 130 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?
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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 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour start and how do I get there?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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Included: Guide Service (English, Russian); Bottled water; On-board WiFi; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Snacks. Not included: Lunch; and Entrance Ticket to "Areni-1 Cave". Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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Cascade complex, in front of the Al.Tamanyan statue. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour offered in?
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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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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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, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Yerevan. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Khor Virap, Noravank & Areni-1 Cave with Wine Tasting Group Tour?
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Across 370 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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