Imagine standing beneath the shadow of Mount Ararat, exploring monasteries carved directly into mountainsides, wandering cobblestone streets overlooking the Caucasus, tasting wine made in clay vessels using traditions thousands of years old, and ending your journey beside the sparkling Caspian Sea.
For travellers looking for something beyond the usual European getaway, the Caucasus offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, cuisine and breathtaking scenery. Our 12- or 15-day escorted journey through Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan brings these remarkable destinations together in one unforgettable holiday.
With international airfare included from Toronto, four-star accommodation, an English-speaking tour guide, daily sightseeing and a small-sized group, this is an opportunity to experience the region with the convenience of a thoughtfully arranged tour.
Armenia: Ancient History and Living Traditions
Your adventure begins in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. From the moment you arrive, the city offers a wonderful introduction to Armenia’s distinctive character. It’s a place where ancient history and contemporary culture sit comfortably side by side.
Explore the Cascade Complex, wander through the heart of the city, browse the colourful Vernissage open-air market and visit the GUM farmers’ market, where stalls are filled with fresh fruit, herbs, cheeses, dried fruit and nuts.
But it is beyond the city where some of Armenia’s most memorable experiences await.
One of the highlights is Khor Virap Monastery, dramatically situated beneath the towering presence of Mount Ararat. The setting alone is unforgettable, but the site also offers a fascinating connection to Armenia’s religious history.
Another standout is Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the mountainside. Here, rock-hewn chambers and extraordinary acoustics create an atmospheric experience that is difficult to find anywhere else.
And then there is the food.
A visit to a village home provides an opportunity to see traditional lavash baking in a clay tonir and enjoy Armenian barbecue, known as khorovats, accompanied by cheese and fresh herbs. Rather than simply observing local culture from a distance, travellers have the chance to participate in it. This is one of the many things that can make a journey truly memorable.
From Lake Sevan to the Forests of Dilijan
Armenia’s landscapes are just as captivating as its historic sites.
Lake Sevan, known as the “Blue Pearl of Armenia”, is one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes. With Sevanavank Monastery overlooking the water and a lakeside lunch featuring freshly grilled Sevan trout, it is a beautiful opportunity to slow down and appreciate the scenery.
From there, the journey continues to Dilijan, a forested spa town often referred to as the “Switzerland of Armenia”. Strolling along Old Sharambeyan Street, you’ll find restored wooden houses, artisan workshops, galleries and cafés. It’s a charming contrast to the grand monasteries and mountain landscapes experienced earlier in the trip.
The result is a remarkably varied introduction to Armenia: ancient religious sites, vibrant markets, dramatic scenery, traditional food and welcoming local experiences all woven into one journey.
Georgia: Wine, Mountains and the Magic of Tbilisi
Cross the border into Georgia and the scenery and atmosphere begin to change once again.
The journey brings you to Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, where history seems to appear around every corner. Ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress for panoramic views over the Old Town before exploring the historic sulphur bath district, churches, colourful streets and landmarks along the Mtkvari River.
Tbilisi is a city made for wandering. From Sioni Cathedral and the Bridge of Peace to the historic Anchiskhati Basilica and the whimsical Gabriadze Theatre, the city’s layers of history and culture unfold as you explore.
And Georgia wouldn’t be Georgia without wine.
A journey into the Kakheti wine region takes you to the charming hilltop town of Sighnaghi, known as the “balcony of Kakheti”. Here, you’ll see the Caucasus stretching into the distance while enjoying wine produced using the traditional qvevri method, which is wine made in buried clay amphorae using a tradition that dates back thousands of years.
For food and wine lovers, this is one of the many experiences that turns the tour into much more than sightseeing.
Into the Great Caucasus
Visit Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and spiritual heart, where UNESCO World Heritage Sites include Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. From there, travel along the historic Georgian Military Highway through the spectacular Great Caucasus.
The route includes stops at Ananuri Fortress and the Gudauri Friendship Monument before reaching Kazbegi, surrounded by some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the region.
One of the tour’s signature experiences comes the following morning, when travellers board 4×4 vehicles for the ascent to Gergeti Trinity Church, standing at 2,170 metres beneath the glaciers of Mount Kazbek.
It’s the kind of setting that makes you pause, look around and appreciate just how far you’ve travelled from home.
The experience continues with a village cooking class where you’ll learn to fold khinkali, Georgia’s famous soup dumplings, before enjoying a meal featuring mtsvadi barbecue, local cheeses and churchkhela.
Add Azerbaijan for the Complete Caucasus Experience
Travellers choosing the 15-day option can extend their adventure to Azerbaijan and discover an entirely different side of the region.
The journey continues to Baku, a dynamic city on the shores of the Caspian Sea where ancient traditions and modern architecture come together.
Explore the walled Old City, Icherisheher, including the iconic Maiden Tower and Shirvanshahs’ Palace. Visit the Carpet Museum and learn about Azerbaijan’s celebrated weaving traditions before experiencing the striking modern architecture of the Heydar Aliyev Center and taking a stroll along Baku Boulevard beside the Caspian Sea.
Beyond Baku, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a fascinating glimpse into the distant past. Thousands of petroglyphs record hunters, dancers, boats and animals across approximately 12,000 years.
The landscape becomes even more unusual at the nearby mud volcanoes, where cool grey mud bubbles and bursts across an otherworldly setting.
The journey also explores Azerbaijan’s ancient fire heritage, including Ateshgah, the Temple of Fire Worshippers, and Yanar Dag, the Burning Mountain.
A Journey Designed for Curious Travellers
What makes this holiday particularly appealing is the combination of comfort, structure and authentic experiences.
The tour includes international economy-class airfare from Toronto, four-star hotels, hotel taxes and service charges, transportation, sightseeing, entrance fees, English-speaking guides and meals as outlined in the itinerary. The 12-day option includes 10 nights and 20 meals, while the 15-day journey includes 13 nights and 26 meals.
There are also optional experiences for travellers who want to add even more local flavour, including an Armenian brandy factory tasting, traditional Armenian music and dance, a visit to a duduk master’s studio, a Georgian supra with polyphonic singing, a churchkhela-making workshop and a traditional sulphur bath experience in Tbilisi.
Whether your interests lie in ancient history, architecture, food and wine, spectacular landscapes or simply discovering somewhere new, this journey offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the character of the Caucasus.
And perhaps most importantly, you won’t have to navigate the logistics alone. With an escorted format, organized transportation, sightseeing and local guides, you can focus on enjoying the experience while the details are taken care of.
Your Caucasus Adventure Awaits
Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan are destinations that reward curious travellers. From Mount Ararat and ancient monasteries to Georgian vineyards, Caucasus mountain peaks and the shores of the Caspian Sea, this is a holiday filled with stories, flavours and landscapes you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.
Choose the 12-day journey through Armenia and Georgia, or extend your adventure with the 15-day Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan experience for an even broader exploration of this fascinating part of the world.
If you’ve been dreaming about a holiday that’s different from the ordinary, this could be your opportunity to discover the treasures of the Caucasus.
Ready to explore Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan? Contact Henry at (416) 960-1393 or info@talkofthetowntravel.com to learn more. Small group departures are now booking in 2027 and 2028, and single supplement is available. Reserve your place today. Smaller tours of Armenia & Georgia are also available for travellers who prefer a more intimate experience.
