20 days tour

Transcaucasus - Greetings From The Balcony Of Europe

Transcaucasus - Greetings From The Balcony Of Europe

This tour includes:

Others

wine and brandy tastings according to the program all entrance fees according to the program one bottle of mineral water per day

Flights

Scheduled flight from/to Frankfurt to Yerevan and back from Tbilisi with Turkish Airlines or other airline in Economy Class (subject to availability; flight surcharge possible) 2 domestic flights: Baku - Nakhichevan - Baku in economy class

Meals

Meals: 19ร—F, 5ร—M, 1ร—M (LB), 8ร—A

Accommodation

17 nights: hotel in double room 2 nights: guest house in double room

Guide

3rd-6th day English speaking tour guide Except for Nakhichevan alternating German speaking tour guide

Transport

all journeys in private vehicles

Not included:

Optional

Others

PCR or antigen rapid tests required, if any. E-visa for Azerbaijan (from 24 US$) meals and drinks not mentioned optional excursions and activities tips Personal

Insurance

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Transcaucasus - Greetings From The Balcony Of Europe

  • Day 1 Istanbul Flight
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Istanbul Flight

      Flight to Istanbul. Change and continue flight in the early morning to Nakhichevan. (unfortunately there are no alternative flight connections).



  • Day 2 Men In Nakhichevan 1ร—F
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Men In Nakhichevan 1ร—F

      Arrival in Nakhichevan and pick up from the airport. After a late breakfast and a short rest, explore the eponymous capital of the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. This small country is separated from Azerbaijan, between Iran, Turkey and Armenia. You will visit one of the most important places on the territory - the tomb of the prophet Noah. According to the Bible, Noah landed here with the ark on Mount Ararat. In translation Nakhichevan means place of landing. On a clear day, Mount Ararat can be seen from many vantage points in Nakhichevan. Overnight stay in the hotel.



  • Day 3 White Gold In One Of The Oldest Salt Mines In The World 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      White Gold In One Of The Oldest Salt Mines In The World 1ร—(B/A)

      After breakfast we go to the business center and the historical museum. The history and present of Nakhichevan is illuminated in detail there. Then you will leave the city and go to the historical village of Garabaghlar to visit the ruins of an ancient city complex, which once had thousands of houses and an incredible 70 mosques. You will travel on to Duzdag, one of the oldest salt mines in the world. You can already make out the scent of salt at the entrance of the site. This place has made a name for itself for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Highlight today - you will spend the night directly in the spa hotel of the salt mine. Overnight stay in the hotel.



  • Day 4 Hot Springs In Julfa And Heavenly Gardens In Ordubad 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Hot Springs In Julfa And Heavenly Gardens In Ordubad 1ร—(B/A)

      About 40 km southeast of the capital are Daridagh thermal spring. It goes to the region of Julfa. On the Iranian side of the border town is the eponymous Jolfa. Later, on a scenic route, we will go to the "Pearl of Nakhichevan", one of the most beautiful places in the country, Ordubad. It is famous for its blooming gardens and abundance of fruits. Especially pomegranates, melons and particularly tasty apricots grow here. From Ordubad, the view also inevitably goes to the mountains, to the highest peak of the country in the Sangesur mountain range. At 3905 m, Qapฤฑcฤฑq DaฤŸฤฑ is the highest mountain in Nakhichevan. Near Nakhichevan in Alinya, you will finish the day by visiting one of the most massive defensive fortifications of the 12th century. Persian and Seljuk forces were often successfully repelled there. Overnight stay in the hotel. (Driving time approx. 3-4h, 180 km).



  • Day 5 The Cold Northeast Of Nakhichevan 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      The Cold Northeast Of Nakhichevan 1ร—(B/A)

      You will drive to Batabat to an almost uninhabited plateau in the Shahbuz region. A beautiful landscape with forests and mountains as well as lakes with floating islands and springs with ice-cold, clear water awaits you. Compared to other parts of the country, it is always quite cool there. Later, visit the Ashabu Kahf Caves, a well-known pilgrimage site in the region. It is said that the legend of the Seven Sleepers originated here. It describes how seven young men, fleeing religious persecution, sought shelter in a cave and, protected by God, fell into a sleep that lasted for several centuries. If there is a melon harvest, you will certainly be invited to taste it along the way. On the last evening in the Promised Land, traditional live music and a dance group await you in one of the restaurants in town. Overnight stay as on the previous day. (Travel time approx. 2-3h, 120 km).



  • Day 6 Off To The Motherland Azerbaijan - Baku 1ร—F
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Off To The Motherland Azerbaijan - Baku 1ร—F

      In the course of the day flight to Baku. First flying visit to the capital of Azerbaijan. After dinner, explore the city on the Caspian Sea again during a night tour. Overnight stay at the hotel.



  • Day 7 Baku Old Town And Qobustan National Park 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Baku Old Town And Qobustan National Park 1ร—(B/A)

      Look forward to the Old Town of Baku, also known as Icheri Shecher! You will stroll through the streets and see the Azerbaijani State Philharmonic Hall. The Palace of the Khans of Shirvan is one of the most famous buildings in the city. The building or the whole complex is located in the middle of the city on a hill. The Maidenโ€™s Tower is also part of it. In the afternoon you will drive out to Qobustan National Park, which is famous for its over 40,000 year old Stone Age rock paintings. Also, this semi-desert is home to more than half of the worldโ€™s mud volcanoes! Overnight stay at the hotel. (driving time approx. 1,5h, 150 km).



  • Day 8 Sheki - Cultural Highlight In The Mountains 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Sheki - Cultural Highlight In The Mountains 1ร—(B/A)

      Sheki in the north of the country is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Azerbaijan. Cultural treasures, centuries-old handicrafts, festivals and music are at home here! And all this in the middle of the mountains. Welcome to the most ancient city of Azerbaijan, surrounded by the picturesque Caucasus with its rugged peaks, crystal clear mountain rivers, deep dark valleys and countless mineral springs. On the way you will visit the mausoleum in honor of Diri Baba, the patron saint of Sufis, as well as the Juma Mosque of Shamachi. Overnight stay at the hotel. (Travel time approx. 4h, 290 km).



  • Day 9 Into The Mountain World Of The East Caucasus 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Into The Mountain World Of The East Caucasus 1ร—(B/A)

      Explore Sheki - one of the oldest cities in the Caucasus, cradle of several ancient crafts and surrounded by gorgeous peaks. You will visit the famous Khan Summer Palace before driving even higher and deeper into the Caucasus by four-wheel drive vehicles. From Qach an easy hike leads to the Ilisu waterfall. After the long drive it is a relief to stretch your legs. You will spend the night in the middle of the Caucasus in the village of the same name Ilisu. Overnight stay in hotel. (driving time about 1h, 40 km, walking time about 1-2h, 4 km).



  • Day 10 Georgia - Wine, Lust For Life And High Snow Peaks 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Georgia - Wine, Lust For Life And High Snow Peaks 1ร—(B/A)

      In the morning you will drive to the border of Lagodekhi and continue your journey to Georgia. You will reach the region of Kakheti, the most famous wine-growing region of Georgia. At the same time, Kakheti is also the largest province of the country. It is idyllically situated in the valley of the Alasani River and flanked by high peaks of the Caucasus - what a magnificent landscape! On lonely country roads and almost endless walnut tree avenues you will get an idea of the dimension and the pride of the Georgians for their wine. Of course, a proper tasting should not be missing. On your extended tour through the wine region of Georgia you will later visit a jewel of sacral architecture - the cathedral of Alawerdi from the 11th century. The largest church building in the province can be seen from afar. Surrounded by vineyards, a visit to the monastery is a must on any trip to Kakheti. Afterwards drive to Telavi. Overnight stay in hotel. (Driving time approx. 4-5h, 210 km).



  • Day 11 Across The Georgian Army Road To Stepantsminda 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Across The Georgian Army Road To Stepantsminda 1ร—(B/A)

      In the morning you will visit a family-run winery. These private winemakers produce only manageable quantities of wine from the Kvevri, but they are all the more high quality for it. Can you already taste the differences between the traditional method and modern wine making? Afterwards you will travel further north on the legendary Georgian Army Road to the provinces of Mtiuleti and Khevi. This historical road is the former caravan route and at the same time militarily important connection through the Caucasus to the Orient. Before reaching Kasbegi, you will make some photo stops at interesting sights along the military road, such as the complex of the fortified church of Ananuri. On a hill, surrounded by the idyllic mountain scenery, there is an overwhelming view, which together with the huge reservoir makes for very special photo opportunities. Later you will reach Kasbegi - official name Stepantsminda - a small town surrounded by the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Caucasus. With a bit of luck you can already make out the Prometheus mountain Kasbek from the valley. Dinner with a Georgian family. Overnight stay in the guest house. (Driving time approx. 5h, 240 km).



  • Day 12 Hike To The Trinity Church At Kasbek 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Hike To The Trinity Church At Kasbek 1ร—(B/A)

      In any case, an excursion into nature is worthwhile. A beautiful hike leads up to the Trinity Church of Gergeti "Zminda Zameba" with the remarkable murals from the 14th century (walking time about 3-4h). From the church, at an altitude of 2180 m, you will have one of the most beautiful views over to the Prometheus mountain Kasbek (5047 m), which is close enough to touch. Optionally we organize for you an all-terrain vehicle ride to the Holy Trinity Church. Later you will be invited to a Georgian family! Here you will prepare the famous Georgian chinkali and/or khachapuri together and taste it afterwards in the family circle. Overnight stay as on the previous day. (Walking time approx. 3h, 420 mโ†‘โ†“, 12 km).



  • Day 13 Uphlisziche, Mtskheta, Good Wine And The Capital 1ร—(B/M)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Uphlisziche, Mtskheta, Good Wine And The Capital 1ร—(B/M)

      On the army road we go back to the south. Short stop in Gori. Further visit to the cave city of Uphlisziche from the 1st century BC, where a branch of the legendary Silk Road passed by. The ancient city structure with its idiosyncratic street system, theaters and various palaces is still easily recognizable today. Today you can take your time, because the road to Mtskheta and Tbilisi is not far. You will have lunch break at a family winery. The winemaker has been pressing old local grape varieties for many years and produces organic wines according to traditional methods. The journey continues to Mzcheta. The ancient capital of the Kartli Iberia Kingdom, known as a political and cultural center since the 3rd century BC. You will visit the monastery of Dzhvarii (Jvari) from the 6th century, which is characterized by harmonious proportions and reflects the high achievements of architecture of the early Georgian Middle Ages. Together with the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, the buildings are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will reach Tbilisi and have the evening at leisure. (Driving time approx. 5-6h, 275 km).



  • Day 14 Explore Tbilisi On Foot 1ร—(B/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Explore Tbilisi On Foot 1ร—(B/A)

      After a hearty breakfast, you will dive into the turbulent history of the Georgian capital Tbilisi (also known as Tiflis). The city is a patchwork quilt of historical and new Stad picturesque old town, which invites you to linger with its narrow streets, cozy cafes and stores. In the historical quarter there is also the Metechi Church - one of the oldest monuments of the city and the Narikala Fortress, which can be reached by cable car and offers the most beautiful panoramic view. A landmark of the city is also the famous spa district. The healing properties of the warm springs have been used by the inhabitants for centuries and are reflected in the cityโ€™s name, as Tbilisi means "warm springs". Also visit Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica - one of the oldest sacral buildings in Georgia. Today at dinner you will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Georgian music. The voice leading and harmony of Georgian singing are unique in the world! Overnight stay as on the previous day.



  • Day 15 Armenia Calls - Churches, Monasteries, Cross Stone Cult 1ร—(B/M)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Armenia Calls - Churches, Monasteries, Cross Stone Cult 1ร—(B/M)

      Slowly you will say goodbye to Georgia. It is only a good hourโ€™s drive to the Armenian border in Sadakhlo. The south of Georgia is only slightly hilly compared to the heights of the mountains and it gets increasingly warmer. In Armenia the landscape changes abruptly. You drive into the deep gorge of Debed. In one of the few forested areas of Armenia with its inaccessible villages hide the most important monasteries and educational centers of the Middle Ages. You will follow the "monastery road" to a high plateau with a magnificent view. Up there is the monastery of Haghpat. It is undoubtedly one of the most important church complexes in the country. Later, a short hike will lead you to the frescoed church of Kobayr. Especially in Armenia, you will also notice many remains and ruins of old industrial plants from Soviet times. They still tell interesting stories from days long gone. Your destination today is Gyumri, the second largest city in Armenia. Before reaching Gyumri you will also catch a glimpse of the highest mountain range in Armenia. You will drive right past the four-peaked volcanic massif of Aragats (4090 m). After a first stop at the main square of Gyumri it is already evening. Gyumri and the small village of Spitak on the Aragats are directly connected with the terrible earthquake in December 1988, which killed 25,000 people and left over 1 million homeless. For the first time there was help from the West for the Soviet Union, which was absolutely unusual during the Cold War. Overnight stay in the hotel. (Walking time about 40min). (Travel time about 5-6h, 230 km).



  • Day 16 Arpi Lake Nature Reserve 1ร—(B/M (Lb)/A)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Arpi Lake Nature Reserve 1ร—(B/M (Lb)/A)

      Pure nature in the picturesque Lake Arpi National Park, one of four in Armenia. It goes to the extreme northwest of Shirak Province in the border triangle of Georgia, Turkey and Armenia. Over 150 years old trees and exotic flora and fauna await you. Especially the numerous bird species can be observed very well from the shore area. Enjoy a typical picnic lunch in the middle of the untouched nature. On an extended walk you will explore the shore area of the lake. For dinner you will be the guest of Armeniaโ€™s most famous fish restaurant. Overnight stay as on the previous day. (Walking time approx. 2h, 100 mโ†‘โ†“, 5 km). (Driving time approx. 2-3h, 100 km).



  • Day 17 The Eternal Sevan 1ร—(B/M)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      The Eternal Sevan 1ร—(B/M)

      Before you leave for the east today, you will take a short trip all the way to the west. The marble church of Marmaschen is located in a picturesque valley of the Achurjan, a tributary of the Aras, a few kilometers from the Turkish border. Dilijan, one of the most beautiful places in the country, awaits you in the morning. It is not for nothing that people speak of the Switzerland of Armenia. Lydia and her family will host you and you will taste typical Armenian organic dishes. The afternoon is dedicated to Lake Sevan. It belongs to one of the largest lakes in the whole Caucasus at a fabulous altitude of 1900 meters. The Sevan Peninsula, once the place of exile of the Armenian nobility is worth a visit. Unfortunately, in the last 150 years the water level has been lowered to such an extent that there is now a land connection to the former island. That the water level is rising again, however, you notice the many little houses in the water near the shore - the Sevan has already reclaimed them. Your accommodation is located on the less frequented northeastern shore. Overnight stay in the hotel.



  • Day 18 Wine In The Shadow Of Ararat 1ร—(B/M)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Wine In The Shadow Of Ararat 1ร—(B/M)

      It starts in good time today. You leave the huge high mountain lake behind you. The road climbs higher and you suddenly find yourself in a barren and deserted highland. The pass of Selim at 2500 m lets you look with some luck perhaps up to the Ararat. Just below the pass is a relic of the Silk Road - the Selim Caravanserai, dating back to the 14th century. It is one of the best preserved ancient rest houses of the entire Silk Road. Now you will descend in daredevil serpentines to the wine region of Armenia, to Vayots Dzor. You will visit Noravank Monastery located in the narrow and red shimmering Amaghu Gorge. Not far from it there is a farm with a rustic wine cellar. Lunch and wine tasting of the different Armenian house wines at the farmerโ€™s place, where you will learn a lot about rural life at the same time. Armenian bread Lavash will be baked there for you as well. You are welcome to try this art yourself. Perhaps unnoticed, but real, you are now driving not far from the border with Nakhichevan, into the Ararat plain, where Noah is said to have once planted the first vine after his descent from Mount Ararat. You are a stoneโ€™s throw away from where you were at the beginning. The circle of your Caucasus journey seems to close here. At the monastery Chor Virap it is done - Ararat seems to be within reach. What a moment for eternity! There is probably no photo motif in all of Armenia which is printed more often than this little church with the mighty snowy peak. Letโ€™s hope that also for the Armenians the gates to their holy mountain will open again someday. In the evening, overwhelmed by impressions, you will reach Yerevan, the all-dominating metropolis. Overnight stay in the hotel.



  • Day 19 Yerevan Experience 1ร—(B/M)
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Yerevan Experience 1ร—(B/M)

      We deliberately planned the whole day for Yerevan. It is worthy to be examined in detail. Tip: go up to the Cascades at sunrise to get the best view of Ararat. You will see Republic Square, the Cascades, the Opera House and many other historical buildings. Under the architect Alexander Tamanjan, old stonemasonry traditions awoke and, for example, Republic Square became the showcase of a new, self-confident country. Almost at the end of your stay in Armenia, you will once again dive into a dark chapter of Armenian history. You will visit the genocide memorial Zizernakaberd (the Swallowโ€™s Nest), which towers over the city. The tour ends with a visit to the large cognac factory with tasting. Afterwards free time. In the evening departure of your night train to Tbilisi. Overnight on the train in the sleeping car.



  • Day 20 Explore Tbilisi On Your Own 1ร—F
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Explore Tbilisi On Your Own 1ร—F

      Today is free at your disposal. However, your guide can show you some excursion possibilities or organize something (e.g. a boat trip on the Kura River). Before dinner, a special place simply called "Fabrika" is worth visiting. This modern cultural center combines several levels for workshops, various entertainment, cafes, restaurants and live music. You should definitely take a look here. Perhaps the group will meet again for dinner to toast three adventurous weeks in the Transcaucasus? Overnight stay at the hotel.



  • Day 21 Return Journey To Germany 1ร—F
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Return Journey To Germany 1ร—F

      Drive to the airport and return flight.



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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 5 / Max: 85

Age range allowed for this experience.

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