This study visit combines historical and cultural exploration across Armenia’s diverse regions with meaningful engagement in youth work and civil society, offering participants both a deeper understanding of the country’s past and political context and direct encounters with youth organisations and community initiatives. Moving beyond traditional sightseeing, the programme is designed to provide insights into current realities, meet practitioners on the ground, and explore how young people and youth organisations contribute to social change and future perspectives in a complex geopolitical environment.

Armenia’s youth sector: The programme features multiple opportunities to engage with Armenia’s youth sector and community practitioners: participants will have an exchange with Armenian Progressive Youth in Yerevan to discuss post‑2018 developments and youth participation in civic life, and will meet with a journalist from Artsakh to understand the conflict and displacement through the lens of young people’s experiences. In the regions, the group will visit a local youth organisation active in community initiatives and take part in an exchange at Impact Hub Goris, a social entrepreneurship centre supporting youth‑led engagement and innovation. In Gyumri, the itinerary includes an expert exchange at the Emili Aregak Centre, which works inclusively with children and young people with disabilities, and a meeting with the Youth Initiative Centre, fostering youth activism, skills development, and community participation across Armenia. 

Exploring Yerevan - Armenia’s Historic Heart: The journey begins in Yerevan, Armenia’s vibrant capital, where participants are introduced to the country’s rich history and contemporary social dynamics. A guided walking tour of the city’s iconic landmarks, including Republic Square, the Cascade, and the Opera House, offers insight into Yerevan’s architectural and cultural heritage. To experience the country’s artisanal traditions, we will explore Vernissage, a lively open-air market featuring handmade jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and paintings created by local artists. 

Understanding Armenia’s Historical and Geopolitical Context: The Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict։ Guests will engage in discussions with local experts on Armenia’s history, regional relations, security concerns, and contemporary political developments. Special attention will be given to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the situation of displaced communities, and the perspectives of youth affected by these challenges. 

Religious and Spiritual Heritage։ The journey continues with visits to Armenia’s remarkable spiritual sites, including the only standing Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery, tracing the country’s transition from pagan antiquity to Christianity. Participants will visit Khor Virap - famous for its stunning location at the foot of Mount Ararat and its deep historical and spiritual significance as the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before converting Armenia to Christianity in 301 AD, making it one of the oldest Christian nations in the world. Its panoramic views of Mount Ararat also make it an iconic symbol of Armenian heritage. Noravank Monastery is renowned for its dramatic red rock cliffs and its beautiful 13th-century monastery complex. We will also visit Tatev Monastery, founded in the 9th century and once a central hub for intellectual and religious life in medieval Armenia. The Tatev experience includes a ride on the world’s longest aerial tramway, offering breathtaking views of the Vorotan River Gorge and the surrounding landscapes.

Regional Highlights: Vayots Dzor, Syunik & Shirak: History, Cultural Heritage and Community Encounters: We will have the opportunity to explore several uniquely different and culturally rich regions of Armenia, each offering its own blend of history, culture, architecture, nature and local encounters. In Vayots Dzor, a land of dramatic valleys and rugged mountains, the region is celebrated for its ancient winemaking heritage, including the world’s oldest known winery dating back over 6,000 years, alongside traditional crafts and historic sites that reflect centuries of human settlement and cultural continuity. In Syunik, participants will journey through landscapes marked by deep gorges and historic towns, including Goris, where the town’s rock‑hewn architecture, natural caves, and picturesque streets speak to its long and vibrant cultural history. The adventure continues in Shirak, anchored by Gyumri, Armenia’s artistic and resilient city, where travelers will explore historic landmarks, learn about the city’s role from imperial crossroads to Soviet industrial center.

Traditional Cuisine and Beverages: No trip to Armenia is complete without experiencing its traditional cuisine and drinks. We will learn about ancient winemaking traditions, followed by a wine-tasting session. Additionally, a culinary workshop will allow us to prepare a traditional Armenian dish. Throughout the journey, we will enjoy regional specialties, each reflecting the unique flavors of Armenia’s diverse culinary heritage.

This study visit is organized in cooperation with the German NGO ''Dialogue for Understanding''.

Practical information & costs

Price per person

• €1,685 (group of 7 people)
• €1,360 (group of 8–12 people)

Included

• Accommodation: 8 nights, twin room
• Half-board (breakfast and lunch or dinner)
• All entrance fees for sights and activities
• Local guides and expert inputs
• Water and snacks
• Transport on all programme days
• Guidance in English (support in German, Russian and Armenian where needed during local encounters)

Not included

• Flights to/from Armenia
• Airport pick-up/drop-off (can be arranged additionally on request)
• Single room supplement: €280

Registeration deadline: by the 19^th of June 2026.

If you have questions, please contact [email protected].