Armenia

Come to Armenia to explore how ordinary citizens turned peaceful protest into democratic transformation. This 8-day journey invites you to trace Armenia’s path from genocide and Soviet repression to grassroots civic awakening, the country’s 2018 Velvet Revolution, and how Armenians are staying engaged. Along the way, you’ll meet the changemakers—civil society leaders, politicians, artists, youth advocates, and everyday citizens—who are continuing to shape Armenia’s future today. Through site visits, shared meals, and meaningful conversations, you’ll not only learn about civic engagement—you’ll feel it.

We begin in Yerevan, Armenia’s storied capital, where we explore the country's complex past and shifting future. Through visits to the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Soviet-era monuments and insightful interactions with Armenia’s current democracy activists, we ground ourselves in Armenia’s layered national identity. We reflect on how Armenia’s experience can inform our own questions about democracy.

We will venture beyond the capital, following a carefully curated loop through Armenia. We’ll visit monasteries perched above canyons, taste wine in the renowned wine region of Vayots Dzor, visit Dilijan’s forested trails, and explore Gyumri’s resilient artistic spirit. Along the way, we’ll meet NGO leaders, activists, youth leaders, and community organizers, bringing to life the diverse ways Armenians continue to define and defend their democracy. Throughout our journey, we will enjoy beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious culinary traditions.

Memory and Movement:
Civic Courage in Armenia’s Revolution

About this Journey

Dates

October 11-18, 2025
May 30-June 7, 2026

Destinations

Yerevan, Vayots Dzor, Sevan, Dilijan, Gyumri

Duration

8 days/8 nights

Included

All Accommodation
8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Local Transportation to Itinerary Stops
Expert Guide
Gratuities
Transport for Trip Departure Flight

Price

Fall 2025
Double Occupancy: $6,739 (10% Off)
Single Occupancy: $7,357 (10% Off)

Spring 2026
Double Occupancy: $7,489
Single Occupancy: $8,174

Itinerary

  • Welcome to Armenia! Your journey begins in the dynamic capital, Yerevan—a city older than Rome, and a place where ancient stone meets modern spirit. If you arrive early, join our optional midday walking tour to orient yourself among the wide boulevards, cozy cafés, and striking Soviet-era architecture.

    That evening, we officially kick off our program with a welcome dinner at one of Yerevan’s most acclaimed restaurants. You meet your fellow travelers and hear from our lead local expert, who will set the stage for the week’s deep exploration of Armenia’s rich culture and civic evolution.

    Overnight in Yerevan

  • We begin our first full day with an unflinching look at Armenia’s modern history. A private, guided tour of the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial will provide vital context for the trauma that shaped the Armenian people and their collective identity. More than 1.5 million Armenians were killed under Ottoman rule between 1915–1917. We lay flowers at the eternal flame to honor the lives lost and reflect on how remembrance fuels resilience.

    From there, we drive through Yerevan to uncover remnants of Soviet Armenia—from grand statues to Brutalist buildings—and consider how 70 years of Soviet rule shaped modern Armenian life. Our lunch stop is a throwback to Soviet-era culinary culture at a restaurant that pays homage to mid-20th century Armenia.

    In the evening, we enjoy a private Armenian brandy tasting. The brandy industry, once a Soviet export jewel, tells a fascinating story of innovation, geopolitics, and identity. One of Churchill’s favorites, Armenian brandy is more than a drink—it’s a symbol of both ancient craftsmanship and modern endurance.

    Dinner follows at another of Yerevan’s renowned local restaurants.

    Overnight in Yerevan

  • Start the day with traditional Armenian coffee in one of Yerevan’s trendsetting cafés, where we screen a powerful documentary chronicling the 2018 Velvet Revolution—a peaceful uprising that unseated a corrupt government and captivated the world.

    Over lunch, we meet with a prominent activist who played a leading role in the movement. This intimate conversation will bring firsthand insight into how Armenia’s citizens translated protest into meaningful democratic reform.

    Later, we visit Impact Hub Yerevan, a bustling nonprofit space that brings together Armenia’s civil society leaders. You hear from a curated panel of journalists, activists, and change agents whose work has driven transparency, civic engagement, and freedom of expression.

    In the early evening, we gather for a special night at the Armenian National Opera and Ballet House: an elegant moment to celebrate the power of creativity and connection that will define our journey together.

    Overnight in Yerevan

  • Today we venture south to explore Armenia’s spiritual and agricultural heartlands. Our first stop is Khor Virap Monastery, perched near the Turkish border with breathtaking views of Mount Ararat. This 17th-century pilgrimage site marks the prison where Gregory the Illuminator was held before converting Armenia’s king—and, in 301 AD, making Armenia the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion.

    We continue through Vayots Dzor, one of Armenia’s premier wine regions and a cradle of human settlement dating back millennia. We pause for lunch at NOA Winery, where long tables are set among the sun-dappled vines. Here, local wines meet farm-fresh dishes, creating the perfect backdrop to linger, sip, and savor Armenia’s winemaking heritage. 

    Then we visit Areni-1 Cave, home to the world’s oldest known winery, dating back to 4100 BCE. This site gives us a glimpse into the sophisticated wine culture of the Chalcolithic period, revealing that winemaking is deeply interwoven with Armenian identity.

    We end the day at a boutique, family-run vineyard tucked beneath Vayots Dzor’s crimson cliffs. With fine wine, aged cheeses, and local meats, we savor the beauty of the land and the rich flavors of Armenia’s culinary revival. Winemaking in Armenia is undergoing a revival after decades of suppression under Soviet mandates that redirected grapes solely to brandy production. Today, winemakers are reclaiming ancient traditions and elevating Armenian wine to global acclaim.

    Overnight in Vayots Dzor

  • Our day begins at Noravank Monastery, a stunning 13th-century complex dramatically situated in a narrow gorge made by the Amaghu River. Known for its intricate carvings and red stone facade, Noravank is a spiritual treasure that showcases the architectural mastery of medieval Armenia.

    Just down the hill, we visit a local artisan studio specializing in khachkars (cross-stones) and traditional pottery—art forms that carry both religious and civic symbolism in Armenian culture.

    From there, we follow the ancient Silk Road, learning how Armenia’s geography made it a vital connector between East and West. These historic trade routes fostered a legacy of openness and hospitality that continues to shape its civil society mindset.

    We stop at Noratus Cemetery, home to the largest surviving collection of khachkars in the world. This atmospheric site offers a poignant window into medieval Armenian spirituality, storytelling, and collective memory.

    Lunch is on the shores of Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. We dine on locally caught fish at the Tea House Bashinjaghyan, owned by a former member of Armenia’s Parliament and participant in the Velvet Revolution, responsible for advancing citizen-led reform.

    We follow our lunch with magical visit to the Sevanavank Monastery, where sweeping lake views meet stone-carved serenity.

    We end the day in Dilijan, a forested mountain town often called “the Switzerland of Armenia.” Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the town’s creative district or settling into your tranquil surroundings.

    Overnight in Dilijan

  • We begin the day with an optional early morning hike through the wooded trails of Dilijan—an opportunity to enjoy the quiet beauty of the landscape before diving into conversations about how Armenia’s young people are shaping its democratic future.

    At the United World College Dilijan, a pioneering international school that brings together students from around the world, we meet a leading Armenian expert on women’s rights and political movements who designed one of the region’s first courses on civic action. She leads us in a dynamic session exploring how civic values are being taught and practiced in a rapidly changing society.

    We then hear from members of a local youth NGO committed to deepening civic participation among young Armenians. Through firsthand stories from student organizers and community leaders, we examine how civil society is nurturing authentic activism—encouraging youth to act not just out of peer influence, but from a sense of purpose and agency.

    In the afternoon, we embark on an unforgettable private farm-to-table feast in one of Dilijan’s breathtaking valleys. You will savor seasonal ingredients and local flavors in a setting that speaks to Armenia’s profound connection between land, culture, and care.

    Overnight in Dilijan

  • Today we travel to Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city and artistic capital. Known for its humor, creativity, and grit, we explore independent galleries and art spaces, where artists channel collective trauma—including the devastating 1988 earthquake and years of underinvestment—into powerful works of visual activism.

    We begin at Artlab Yerevan’s project site in Gyumri, where artists have painted directly onto the walls of the Russian military base still stationed in the city. One of their current initiatives—The Laboratory of Contemporary Art and Art Activism—explores themes of post-Soviet identity, discontent, and peaceful resistance through public-facing installations and multimedia works.

    Lunch is hosted in one of Gyumri’s iconic café-style restaurants, a beloved gathering spot for the city’s artists, writers, and cultural thinkers. It’s a moment to savor the local flavor and spirit of a place that has long nurtured rebellion through art.

    In the afternoon, we have a private tour of the Gallery of Mariam and Eranuhi Aslamazyan Sisters, a vibrant museum celebrating two of Armenia’s most groundbreaking female artists. Their legacy of independence and expression still echoes through the city’s streets—and its creative movement today.

    Tonight, we gather at Hayat Music Hall, where the energy is as unforgettable as the flavors on your plate. Savor traditional Armenian dishes while live music fills the room, the rhythms spilling into laughter, conversation, and clinking glasses.

    Overnight in Gyumri

  • We begin our day in Gyumri with a beloved local ritual—traditional Armenian coffee served alongside a famous Gyumri treat, the ponchik, a doughnut-like pastry filled with sweet cream or jam. It’s a moment to slow down, reflect, and savor the flavor of place.

    The rest of the morning is yours to explore. We provide tailored recommendations based on your interests—whether that’s stepping into quiet art studios tucked into alleyways, visiting hidden galleries, or strolling through Gyumri’s historic center to take in its eclectic architecture and open-air murals. From provocative street art to emotionally charged sculpture, Gyumri offers a raw and compelling perspective on how art fortifies community, preserves memory, and nurtures hope.

    We travel back to Yerevan in the early afternoon. Spend your final hours revisiting favorites or discovering what you may have missed. That might mean diving into one of Yerevan’s exceptional museums, returning to a beloved café, or strolling through the Vernissage Market—Yerevan’s open-air bazaar of handmade crafts, antiques, and political memorabilia.

    We raise a final glass during a private cocktail send off at one of Yerevan’s top mixology bars, honoring the journeys we’ve taken—both outward and inward.

    Overnight in Yerevan

Essential Trip
Information

  • We are hosting two virtual information sessions in August to talk about Democracy Journeys, our two Journeys scheduled for Fall 2025, and answer any questions you may have for us.

    The sessions will be on the following dates:

    • August 14, 2025 at 8:30 – 9:15 am EDT

    • August 26, 2025 at 12:00 – 12:45 pm EDT

    Please register using this form.

    If you want to have a one-on-one conversation with us, please reach out via our Contact Us  page.

    In the meantime, check out our FAQ page for more details.

  • Our journey starts and ends in Yerevan, Armenia. Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) is the closest international airport, located less than 10 miles from the downtown Yerevan.

    You will need to arrive in Yerevan by the afternoon of October 11 or May 30, depending on your Journey dates, as our welcome dinner is scheduled for that evening. Please note that flights from the United States tend to either arrive very late at night or extremely early in the morning. You could fly out of Yerevan anytime after we wrap up our program in the evening of October 18/June 6. Note that your hotel stay for the night of October 18/June 6 is included in the trip price and most flights to the United States leave in the early morning. 

    When you arrive, taxis are available directly outside the terminal. Official airport taxis are a safe and reliable option, with fares estimated by the meter. If ride-hailing apps are something you feel comfortable with the local versions of Uber are GG Taxi and Yandex - both of which are also popular in Yerevan. If using this option is something you would like to do, we recommend downloading the app before arriving in Armenia.

    Alternatively, we can book an airport transfer for you. Please let us know if you prefer this option. Note you will pay for the transport directly.

    For your departure, we will provide transportation for you to the airport at no additional cost.

  • At this time, United States passport holders do not need a visa. Other passport holders may require a visa. It is always good to check with the embassy in your country for latest advice regarding visa requirements.

    • All of your accommodations and breakfasts are included throughout the entirety of the trip, including on the final night (October 18/June 6).

    • All meals listed in the itinerary: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.

    • 3 wine tastings

    • 1 brandy tasting

    • 1 National Opera or Ballet performance (which one is dependent on the schedule)

    • Private guided tours of galleries and museums

    • All local transport (except during your personal time)

    • Airport transfer at the end of your trip

    Please note thatflights are notincluded in the price and need to be arranged by travelers themselves or with an agent.

  • As is the case with all of our tours, we intentionally keep our group size small to maximize personal connection and will not exceed 15 people.

  • Our trips to Armenia take place during the transition to Fall or Spring. Like the central East Coast of the United States, October in Armenia brings a mix of warm days (61-68°F in Yerevan, 50-59°F in mountainous regions) and chilly evenings (43-50°F in Yerevan, 34-41°F in mountainous regions). We recommend packing layers, including a warm jacket for evening activities, as temperatures will drop after sunset. While October is generally a dry month, light rain gear is still a good idea. Sunblock is recommended, as several of our activities will take place outdoors and higher altitudes can magnify UV exposure.

    April, on the other hand, marks the transition from winter to spring. Daytime temperatures can be pleasantly mild (72-79°F in Yerevan, 59-68°F in mountainous regions), and mornings and evenings may still feel brisk (50-55°F in Yerevan, 41-50°F in mountainous regions). Layers remain essential—think sweaters, a light coat, and a rain jacket or umbrella, as April tends to be wetter than October. Armenia’s spring landscapes are particularly vibrant, so be prepared to spend time outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunblock will go a long way.

  • Armenia has a somewhat relaxed dress code, but modesty is appreciated, especially outside of Yerevan and when visiting religious sites. While casual clothing is fine for most of our activities, it's recommended to have some more dressier options for certain events. In general, layered clothing, light sweaters, a rain jacket or umbrella, and some warm clothes are suggested.

    Tips:

    • While not strictly enforced, dressing modestly is a sign of respect, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

    • Layering is helpful - the weather in Armenia can be unpredictable, so packing layers is a good idea, particularly for the mountains.

    • We suggest you bring a jacket, gloves, and a hat for our time in colder areas.

    • Good walking shoes will be essential for exploring cities and optional hiking.

    • A rain jacket or compact umbrella️ is especially important in April, when light rain is more common, and still useful in October, though it’s typically drier.

    • For religious sites (churches, monasteries), it is appropriate to cover your shoulders and knees (a scarf or shawl can be useful) and avoid wearing shorts.

    • For one or two of the meetings, it will be appropriate to wear dressier clothing (e.g., jacket and tie, dress, nice slacks and blouse)

  • The currency used in Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but we recommend that you bring some cash/be prepared to pull some cash out for your leisure time.

    In Armenia, the commonly used outlet types are Type C and Type F. Type C, also known as the Europlug, has two round pins. Type F, also known as Schuko, has two round pins and two grounding clips. The standard voltage is 230V at a frequency of 50Hz. Some devices, such as hair dryers, may require a voltage converter in addition to a plug adapter. Check your chargers and adapters to see what is required.

    Wifi is widely available in all hotels as well as many coffee shops and restaurants.

    Many major US cell phone carriers work on Armenia’s cell phone networks while roaming. Check with your carrier to see if you are able to use your phones in these countries. Alternatively, you can purchase local SIM cards or an eSIM with a prepaid/pay-as-you-go plan for access to high-speed data.

  • We use multiple sources of information to assess the risks associated with each itinerary to ensure a safe experience for all travelers. Although we have experience working in conflict zones, we can assure you we are not taking you to any of them! As is the case everywhere, we can face unexpected risks during our travel, which we are prepared to address to minimize any potential harm.

    International SOS - We partner with International SOS to provide 24/7 emergency assistance for all Democracy Journeys travelers. International SOS is a leading provider in the industry that offers rapid support for medical issues, security concerns, travel logistics, and other emergencies. They have highly trained experts around the world on standby. You can easily access their services by phone, online, or through the International SOS app (available in your mobile app store). We have used them for years and can personally attest to their responsiveness and robust support.

    Additional Safety and Security Resources - Travelers will receive detailed pre-departure briefings from International SOS and can ask them any specific pre-departure medical or security questions. As a part of the pre-trip resources package, Democracy Journeys will ensure you have the International SOS medical resources for our itinerary. In addition, the Core Journeys Team member on your Journey is First Aid & CPR Certified and will always travel with a First Aid Kit. 

    Information Sources - We triangulate information from multiple sources to assess risk in each destination and guide our travel decisions. We reference International SOS Global Risk Ratings, U.S. State Department travel advisories (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/), and local experts on-the-ground. We monitor these sources regularly before and during our trip and may make changes to our itinerary to avoid risky areas, or postpone the Journey entirely, if necessary.

    Security in Armenia - Armenia is a low-risk travel location. Our security partner advises taking standard security precautions against petty theft and street crime, such as keeping your personal items close to you and maintaining awareness of your surroundings. We also recommend that you not take public transit and rather rely on taxis for your personal exploration, as needed. Hotels and your Democracy Journey guides will be able to assist with arrangements. International SOS also encourages travelers to bypass protests or demonstrations, which we do not anticipate on our Journey and will proactively plan around if needed.

    Travelers should not visit areas on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border on the Eastern side of Armenia due to conflict between the countries. We will not go near this area.

  • It is required that all travelers on a Journey provide proof of travel insurance before the trip begins. Travel insurance must cover (1) personal injury, (2) medical treatment, (3) repatriation, and (4) evacuation expenses, including helicopter rescue and air ambulance internationally. There are a number of companies offering this coverage including International SOS, Battleface, Insure My Trip, IMG Global and AIG Travel Guard.

    Travelers can receive health requirements for our destinations through a pre-travel briefing from International SOS, your primary doctor, a travel clinic, or the U.S. Center for Disease Control.

    We suggest you start with the International SOS briefing and plan a visit to your own doctor or local travel clinic who will have the most up-to-date travel advice and administer any vaccinations prior to travel based on your medical history.

  • Bookings require a $500 nonrefundable deposit to hold your seat. For the Fall 2025 Journey, we will require payment for the remaining balance by September 1. If you make your booking on or after September 1, the full payment will be due at the time of booking and is nonrefundable.

    We will confirm the trip by no later than September 5. Please do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements until you receive this confirmation. If we must cancel the trip, we will refund you the full amount you have paid.

    The Spring 2026 Journey will follow the standard timeline, as detailed in our Terms and Conditions. Full payment will be due by 60 days before the start date. Democracy Journeys will confirm the trip by 60 days before the trip start date as well. Please see the Terms and Conditions for full details.

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