Gyumri Old Town & Marmashen Monastery Private Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Gyumri's historic old town
- Visit the ancient Marmashen Monastery
- Private transportation from Yerevan
- Learn about Armenia's rich history
- Enjoy personalized guided experience
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Yerevan to Gyumri
- Guided tour of Gyumri's historic old town
- Visit to Marmashen Monastery
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
Gyumri is located in the north-western part of Armenia, in the middle of Shirak valley, 126 km far from Yerevan. From the ethnical point of view it is the most colorful city in Armenia. The local traditions are deeply rooted here, national spirit is reflcted in everything. Walking along the streets of old Gyumri one still seems to hear the voice of the smiths' hammers, it seems that a cart will appear from the street corner and the carter will call to show around the city. The old houses, a part of which fortunately resisted the devastating earthquake in 1988, speak of the high architectural achievements of the city. These buildings are notable with their architectural solutions, combination of colorful stone and masterfully elaborated bas-reliefs. Gyumri has always been in the center of cultural events.
On the picturesque bank of Akhuryan river there is the magnificent monastery Marmashen built by Duke Vahram Pahlavuni. It is a huge complex, the construction of which started in 986 and finished in 1029. The main church is a domed hall. The facades of the church are elaborated with triangular niches, which endow the edifice with special liveliness. The survived eastern and northern walls of the second church, which is adjacent to the main church, prove that both with its composition and architectural details it is the smaller duplication of the main church. This complex built with well-hewn red tufa on the background of the blue sky casts an enigmatic impression.
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability.
- Provide the names and ages of all participants during booking for accurate planning.
- Be aware that the tour involves walking; ensure all participants are comfortable with this activity.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the old town and monastery grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the day's conditions.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
- Easy Public Transport
- Stroller Accessible
Traveler reviews
Private tour - Gyumri, Black fortress, Harichavank, Alphabet Park
We visited northern Armenia with our wonderful driver and guide, Araqel (who also took us to the south on another day). The journey itself was stunning, with breathtaking landscapes along the way and truly unforgettable destinations. Gyumri was especially impressive—full of charm and offering beautiful views. Although it was a bit too snowy at the Armenian Alphabet Monument, the experience was still absolutely worth it. I highly recommend this trip. And if you’re lucky enough to have Araqel or Alexander as your driver, you’re in for a treat—they both have deep knowledge of the country’s culture and history and make the experience even more meaningful.
Great organisation and team
Great day spent with Anush and Sash to the nord-western part to gyumri and monastries. Gentle and perfectly organised! Hyur is always a guarantee!
Fantastic experience
Armen (driver) and Aref (guide) took great care of us. Gyumri has a very different vibe than Yerevan, and is a must-do for anyone who wants to get a fuller picture of Armenian culture and history. Aref is a wonderful guide. One of the absolute highlights for us of our visit was to experience her singing a hymn for us in an old Armenian church. We would warmly recommend Hyur's services to anyone wanting to set up tours within Armenia.
Excellent experience
Arayik, our driver provided excellent experience for us. We had a wonderful and safe trip. I will recommend to book a tour with this company.
Recommended if you’re into Culture
The whole trip was really nice. We saw beautiful landscapes although would have been better if we had went during spring but still Gyumri was really nice. What made the whole experience better was Sona’s (our guide) rich information she shared with us and her eagerness to answer all our questions. We also appreciate Hamiq our driver who was indeed very nice and drove us safely until the end of the trip.