Georgia & Armenia: Journey to the Caucasus

Arrive into the Georgian capital where you are met by A&K and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. Located in a dramatic valley setting, Tbilisi is a vibrant melting pot blending nightclubs and speakeasy cafes with a picturesque bohemian old town full of narrow cobblestoned alleyways and rich architecture reflecting its complicated history. This evening join your Resident Tour Director and fellow travellers for a drink and briefing on the adventure ahead. Stay: Tbilisi Marriott Hotel

Your adventure starts with a walk through the cobbled streets of the atmospheric old town. Visit the 12th century Metekhi Church and a 19th century Jewish synagogue. Admire the old Georgian houses with their distinctive wooden, curved balconies and the Sioni Cathedral. You'll see the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi before getting a bird's-eye view of the city from the Narikala Fortress, which can be accessed by cable car or on foot. Tonight is a chance to savour some of Georgia's finest cuisine at a favourite traditional restaurant accompanied by a private polyphonic ensemble performance. Stay: Tbilisi Marriott Hotel (B/L/D)

Visit the Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia with its extraordinary collection of gold filigree work. Continue to the Georgian National Centre of manuscripts for a private visit with a specialist to talk about important restoration work. There will also be time to visit National Museum of Fine Arts, and the Sukhoi Bridge open air market.

This afternoon, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities:

• Experience an artisan introduction to the ancient technique of cloisonné (decorative enamelwork) during a private workshop.
• Join an architectural expert for a walking tour around the city to gain insights and depth into Tbilisi's unique architectural history.
• Visit the historic Tbilisi Sulphur Baths, renowned for its therapeutic and healing properties and experience an authentic scrub treatment.

Explore the most picturesque part of Georgia — Kakheti, which borders the Great Caucasus range. This area is the birthplace of viticulture and winemaking, admire the profusion of vineyards and beautiful churches as you drive through. Stop at the 9th century Bodbe Monastery before arriving at the pretty fortified town of Sighnaghi, famous for its wine and carpet making. Meander through the narrow streets before lunch with a local family serving up traditional dishes from the region, and of course matching wines.

Before returning to Tbilisi visit the grand Tsinandali Estate, once home to the noble Chavchavadze family and noted for its historic winery. This evening, attend the Akhvlediani House Museum, studio of one of the first recognised female artists in Georgia, Elene Akhvledian. Admire her works over drinks and a private piano recital. Stay: Tbilisi Marriott Hotel (B/L)

The World Heritage site of Mtskheta is your first stop today. Georgia's cultural and religious centre, it is also one of the country's oldest towns. Visit the early medieval Jvari Church and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Arrive into the sleepy town of Kazbegi later this afternoon where views of Mt. Kazbek are breathtaking — especially from your hotel room. Stay: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi (B/L/D)

This morning, journey to the beautifully situated 14th century Gergeti Holy Trinity Church, perched high on a hill overlooking the town and the surrounding mountain scenery. Get up close by 4WD or, for the more energetic, on foot. More traditional Georgian hospitality today over lunch with one of the local families before visiting a studio to observe the traditional craft of felt making. This evening, enjoy the stylish Nordic atmosphere of the hotel before sundowners on the terrace. Stay: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi (B/L/D)

Heading along the Georgian Military Highway, take in the Ananuri Architectural complex, with churches and towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Indulge in flavourful Georgian dishes paired with locally-made wines before continuing to Gori, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin where you will visit the controversial museum that traces his life. Afterwards, Return to Tbilisi with your evening at leisure. Stay: Tbilisi Marriott Hotel (B/L)

Farewell to Georgia this morning, crossing into Armenia at the Sadakhlo border. Stop at the 10th century Akhtala Fortress and Church, as well as the Haghpat and Sanahin monastic complexes on the way to Yerevan. Armenia's capital and its largest city, Yerevan stretches along the banks of the River Hrazdan at the foot of Mount Ararat, and is marked by grand Soviet-era architecture. A traditional dinner of Armenian cuisine is arranged this evening. Stay: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (B/L/D)

Travel to Lake Sevan, the largest body of water in the Caucasus region, boarding a private boat to explore the pearl of this mountainous country. Discover Sevanavank Monastery, a monastic complex located on a peninsula at the northwestern shore. Afterwards, return to Yerevan. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Stay: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (B/L )

Your introduction to the capital begins with a guided tour of the city, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited metropolises. See the beautiful Government buildings, the Central Post Office and banks. Visit the State History Museum as well as the Cafesjian Modern Art Museum which exhibits collections of Armenian and international contemporary artworks.

Later, pay a visit the sombre Genocide Museum and Memorial, commemorating the massacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1922. Discover why Armenian brandy is world famous at a specially organised VIP tasting at the Yerevan brandy factory, followed by private entry to the Parajanov Museum, featuring an exclusive musical performance with drinks and canapes. Stay: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (B/L)

A morning visit to the ruins of the 7th century Zvartnots Cathedral, followed by Etchmiadzin Cathedral for holy mass. This ancient cathedral is the headquarters for the Armenian Orthodox Church. Afterwards, head to lunch at the family owned Megeryan Carpet Factory & Museum. Get comfortable as you admire the exquisite handmade carpets before savouring a traditional Armenian meal. Stay: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (B/L)

Begin with a private spiritual vocal performance in the acoustic hall of the ancient Geghard Monastery. Afterwards, visit the pagan Temple of Garni, built around 77 A.D. before taking part in a centuries-old Armenian cultural tradition at a hands-on lavash making ceremony, followed by lunch in a local home.

Afterwards, there will be time to pore over the stalls at the Vernissage flea market, a short walk from the hotel and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the fusion between national traditions and modern flair. This evening, a farewell dinner is held. Stay: Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan (B/L/D)

Transfer to the airport for departure flight. (B)