Haghpat is a treasure trove for travelers interested in Armenia’s religious architecture, scenic landscapes, and local history. Unlike many destinations, Haghpat offers a unique mix of UNESCO-listed monasteries, ancient caves, and dramatic mountain views—all accessible through well-curated tours. We particularly like the Yerevan: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, and Aramyans Tour, which combines multiple highlights into one full day, including visits to the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—and the fascinating Zarni-Parni Cave Complex. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown with guides sharing deep insights along the way.
While many trips focus just on the monasteries, some tours extend to include scenic caves or nearby castles, giving a fuller sense of Armenia’s historical landscape. Whether you’re after a guided day trip or a transfer with sightseeing, each experience on our list offers a different way to enjoy Haghpat’s wonders, with options suited for various interests and schedules.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of guided day tours, transport-inclusive trips, private multi-day adventures, and simple transfers—each showcasing the best of Haghpat and its surroundings. For example, the Yerevan to Haghpat & Sanahin tour is a full-day guided experience that covers major UNESCO sites along with local landmarks. The transfer option offers a hassle-free way to explore during a journey between Yerevan and Tbilisi, while the private two-day tour takes you deeper into Lori’s lush scenery. For a quick day trip from Tbilisi, the Armenian Treasures tour includes Lake Sevan and the monasteries, perfect for a scenic overview. The options are varied enough to fit any schedule or interest.
1. Yerevan: Haghpat, Zarni-Parni, Akhtala, and Aramyans Tour
At number 1, this 14-hour guided tour offers an immersive experience of Armenia’s northern highlights. Starting from Yerevan, the tour takes you to the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, both UNESCO sites that showcase medieval Armenian architecture and spiritual life. The tour then visits the Zarni-Parni Cave Complex—a lesser-known but fascinating set of rock-cut chambers that offer insight into ancient habitation and religious practices. The tour also includes the Akhtala fortress, famed for its 10th-century frescoes and Byzantine-influenced architecture, as well as the Aramyants Castle for a taste of local noble history.
What makes this tour stand out is its well-balanced itinerary. The guide shares detailed stories at each site, and the visits are timed for optimal light and few crowds. The inclusion of scenic views en route and a local bakery stop adds a personal touch. With a rating of 4.8/5 from 69 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and the comprehensive nature of the trip. The price is reasonable at $47 per person, offering excellent value for a full day of exploration.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded day visiting UNESCO sites, ancient caves, and medieval castles, this tour hits all the marks. It’s perfect for history lovers and curious travelers who appreciate detailed guided experiences.
2. Tbilisi transfer: Haghpat, Sanahin stops to or from Yerevan
Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, this 12-hour transfer combines transportation with sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re traveling between Tbilisi and Armenia and want to make the most of the journey by visiting Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries along the way. The transfer provides a safe, smooth ride through the scenic Lori Province, with ample time to explore these UNESCO-listed sites. It’s a straightforward option for those who prefer to combine transport and sightseeing without the hassle of arranging separate tickets or guides.
The highlight here is the convenience—your trip from Georgia to Armenia, or vice versa, is a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the mountain views. The reviews note that the driver is reliable and friendly, making it a stress-free experience. Since the exact times vary, it’s best to check availability in advance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers on the move who want to see Haghpat and Sanahin without extra planning. It’s a practical, comfortable option to add a cultural stop during your transit.
3. Tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi visit Sanahin, Haghpat, Akhtala
Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this 11-hour tour offers a seamless way to travel between Yerevan and Tbilisi while exploring key sites en route. Starting from the Envoy Hostel & Tours in Yerevan, the day includes visits to Sanahin Monastery, Haghpat Monastery, and Akhtala Monastery. The tour features guided tours, scenic views, and a homemade BBQ lunch, which adds to the authentic experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of transport and sightseeing, making it especially appealing for travelers who want to maximize their day without worrying about logistics. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or wanting a guided introduction to Armenia’s monasteries before heading to Georgia. The reviews praise the smooth transfer and knowledgeable guides, with the added bonus of local cuisine.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers who want a hassle-free transfer with meaningful sightseeing, especially if you’re heading from Yerevan to Tbilisi and want to see Armenia’s religious sites along the way.
4. Haghpat, Sanahin & Odzun, Mendz Er or Zarni – Parni Caves
Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, this two-day private tour explores Lori’s lush landscape and its UNESCO-listed monasteries. Starting from Yerevan, it includes detailed visits to the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, both masterpieces of medieval architecture. The tour also ventures to the Odzun Church, with its impressive façade and history, and the Mendz Er Cave, which offers stunning views over the region. The highlight is the visit to Zarni-Parni caves, a remarkable site for those interested in ancient habitation and religious history.
This private tour is great for travelers seeking flexibility and in-depth exploration. The itinerary balances cultural sites with scenic views, and the guide shares stories about local history and legends. The tour’s price is $171 for up to 3 people, making it a good deal for a personalized experience.
Guests mention the beauty of Lori’s landscape and the richness of the sites visited. The focus on UNESCO sites and caves makes this ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, comprehensive visit to Lori’s monasteries plus scenic caves, this tour offers a personalized and enriching experience.
5. Armenian Treasures: Tbilisi to Lake Sevan & Haghpat
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this day trip from Tbilisi takes you to Lake Sevan and the Haghpat Monastery. The tour starts with a scenic drive from Georgia, with stops at Armenia’s largest lake for fantastic views and local walks. It also includes a guided tour of the Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO site renowned for its medieval architecture. The tour features a brandy tasting session and traditional Armenian dishes, allowing you to indulge in local flavors.
What makes this trip unique is its focus on both natural beauty and cultural heritage. Guests love the combination of scenic lake views, historic sites, and tastings. The guide shares stories about Armenia’s traditions and history, making the day both educational and enjoyable.
Priced as a one-day tour, it’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want an overview of Armenia’s key highlights. The reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guide and the beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a quick, scenic, and cultural introduction to Armenia, with emphasis on Lake Sevan and Haghpat’s UNESCO monastery.
6. Group tour: Haghpat, Sanahin, Akhtala, Odzun, Mendz Er
Rated 5/5 from 1 review, this 14-hour group tour offers a comprehensive look at Lori’s best sites. It includes visits to Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, Odzun Church, Mendz Er Cave, and Akhtala Fortress. The tour is perfect for those who prefer a structured group experience, with guided commentary at every stop and scenic drives through Armenia’s lush landscape.
The itinerary is rich in cultural and natural sights, with the group size kept small for intimacy. The review notes that the tour is well-organized, with plenty of time to explore each site and enjoy local scenery. The price is $42 per person, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing with transportation included.
This tour is suited for budget travelers or those who enjoy sharing experiences with others, without sacrificing depth or quality.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those looking for a guided group experience that covers multiple sites efficiently and affordably.
7. Armenia: 4-Day Nature and Adventure Tour with Accommodation
This 4-day tour is ideal for outdoor lovers and adventure-seekers. It covers Armenia’s most stunning landscapes, including Lake Sevan, hikes to the Artanish Peninsula, kayak adventures, and guided city tours of Yerevan. It also includes visits to the Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries and the Jukhtak Monastery, offering a balanced mix of culture and activity.
While more expensive at $590 per person, the tour includes overnight accommodations and a variety of outdoor pursuits. The guide’s expertise ensures you get the most out of each activity, whether paddling on the lake or hiking mountain trails. It’s a good fit for active travelers who want a deeper connection with Armenia’s natural scenery.
Guests rave about the variety—one reviewer highlighted hiking to the top of the Artanish Peninsula for incredible views—and the well-organized schedule.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an immersive experience combining nature, adventure, and cultural sites over several days.
8. Discover Armenia Hagpati Sanahin, Akhtala, local dinner
Rated for reviews but no specific score, this 9-hour trip offers a balanced day exploring Haghpat, Sanahin, and Akhtala, with a focus on local culture and cuisine. The itinerary includes visits to all three monasteries with guided tours, plus a local dinner, making it a great way to combine sightseeing with authentic Armenian food.
The highlights include the stunning frescoes in Akhtala and the medieval charm of Haghpat. Travelers appreciate the personal touch of the local dinner, which provides a taste of Armenian hospitality. It’s a good option for those wanting a shorter day with a cultural culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in combining monastic exploration with local dining, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Armenia’s culinary traditions.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and what type of experience appeals most. For a comprehensive, guided full-day tour, the Yerevan-Haghpat tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a hassle-free transfer with sightseeing, the Tbilisi to Haghpat stop is practical. For a more personalized experience, the private two-day Lori tour offers depth and flexibility, especially if you’re interested in caves and off-the-beaten-path sites.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the 4-day adventure tour combines hiking, kayaking, and cultural visits, while those on a tighter schedule might enjoy a short, scenic day trip that emphasizes local cuisine and straightforward sightseeing. Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Haghpat offers a rich variety of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a deep dive into medieval monasteries, a scenic journey through Lori’s lush valleys, or a quick cultural stop en route between countries, Armenia’s northern region won’t disappoint. For an all-encompassing experience, the full-day guided tours are excellent, but don’t overlook the private or transfer options if you’re seeking flexibility or convenience.
For travelers eager to see the UNESCO sites, explore cave complexes, or enjoy local food and scenery, these tours provide a solid foundation. Remember, early booking is always wise, especially if you want to ensure a spot on your preferred adventure.
Whatever your style, Haghpat’s history, architecture, and landscapes are waiting to enrich your journey. Choose what fits your interests and schedule, and get ready for a memorable Armenian experience.