Things to do in Alaverdi
Alaverdi is a city located in the Lori region of Armenia and is very close to the Georgian border. It is on the shores of the beautiful Debed river. This industrial city is home to many interesting sites and attractions. In addition, it is home to a small Greek community, where all the residents speak a Pontian dialect of the language. Alaverdi is completely surrounded by lush green mountains and has a rather cool climate.
There is plenty for you to do in the villages nearby Alaverdi. For one, Sanahin and Haghpat are two major Armenian churches that are located right outside of the city. You can also visit the Odzun church, which is also located in close proximity to the city center. The small ruined churches of Horomayr and St. Hovhannes of Ardvi are also located in Alaverdi. Horomayr is, in fact, located on a cliff, which makes passersby wonder how it was possible to construct. The city is also home to ancient caves, the Alaverdi-Sanahin bridge, and even more churches. It is known for being an industrial city due to the copper combine, which is where a majority of the residents receive their income from. And what is even more interesting about Alaverdi is that the town has a cable car that will allow you to see the different parts of town and the Armenian landscape from above.
How to get to Alaverdi
Alaverdi is quite far from Yerevan. But since the churches located near the city center are highly popular tourist attractions, you will be able to find public transport both in Armenia and Georgia. If you want a cheap yet easy method to reach Alaverdi from Yerevan, you may want to choose bus. Buses leave at different times every day from the Kilikia Bus Station, typically in the early morning and afternoon. It takes 4 hours to get to Alaverdi. The trip will cost you 1,500 AMD, which is a bit less than 3 EUR.