top 10 places to visit in armenia

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15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

Armenia is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction, with the small but charming nation boasting a rich history.

Armenia, which was the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion, boasts some of Europe’s most stunning views, with the peak of Mount Ararat dominating the country’s skyline. The mountain is Armenia’s national symbol despite its peak lying just over the Turkish border and Ararat is considered holy by locals due to its mention in The Bible – it is where Noah’s Ark landed.

Armenia is home to countless beautiful monasteries and they are often found in areas of truly outstanding natural beauty. Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, is one of the most rapidly developing cities in the whole of Europe as the nation continues to embrace tourism. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Armenia !

By far the largest city in Armenia, the capital Yerevan is a great place to start for anyone wishing to explore Armenia. The city is home to the grand Republic Square, while climbing the Cascade to see the city’s monument to Soviet victory in the Second World War is a must.

Yerevan is a deeply historic city and visiting the Armenian Genocide Memorial is a must to learn more about the nation’s troubled past. Vernissage market is worth visiting too – it is open at the weekend – while a walk through the Hrazdan gorge is also highly recommended.

Much of what Armenia has to offer can be explored during day trips from Yerevan, which is known as the City of Cafes.

Yerevan is also home to Blue Mosque, which is the only mosque in the whole of the country, as well as Levon’s Amazing Underground World, which is one of Europe’s most unusual attractions.

2. Shikahogh State Reserve

The second largest forest reserve in Armenia, Shikahogh State Reserve is so unspoiled that large parts of it remains unexplored to this day.

The forest is believed to be home to animals including leopards, bears, wild goats and vipers and it is also thought that Shikahogh State Reserve has about 1,100 species of plants, although its fauna has not yet been fully explored. The reserve was threatened by a planned highway in 2005, but environments successfully lobbied for the forest’s future to be protected.

The reserve also has a number of very beautiful waterfalls to enjoy.

3. Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan, found in the heart of Armenia, is the country’s largest lake and a beautiful place to visit during a break in the country. The lake is surrounded by some stunning monasteries – the most impressive of them being arguably the Sevanavank Monastery – providing a glorious scenic backdrop to a relaxing trip.

Windsurfing is among the recreation activities available at the lake, which also has a wide choice of excellent seafood restaurants along its shore.

Lake Sevan has a number of popular beaches and, as the country has no coastline, this is the best place in Armenia to sunbathe, with Sevan Bay and its surrounding mountains providing spectacular scenery.

4. Dilijan National Park

Armenia has four national parks and Dilijan national park may be the most beautiful of the lovely quartet. The park, which was only established in 2002, is famous for its medicinal mineral water springs, as well as its natural monuments.

Many of Armenia’s more important cultural locations can be found within the grounds of the park, such as Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank Monastery  and Jukhtak Vank, as well as Matosavank Monastery and the Akhnabat church.

The Aghestev and Getik river basins are also both within the boundaries of Dilijan national park.

5. Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats is one of Armenia’s most stunning natural sights, with the dormant volcano located in the north of the country. It is Armenia’s highest peak and there is a lot of rock art to be enjoyed around its base, with paintings of animals and human-like figures dating back hundreds of years.

Snow covers the peak almost all year-round but Mount Aragats can be climbed, with July, August and September the best times of the year to attempt the hike.

The southernmost of the four peaks is the easiest to climb, while the northern peak, at around 4,000 metres, is the most challenging.

6. Lake Arpi

While Lake Sevan can be extremely crowded during the peak tourist season, Lake Arpi has a much more relaxed feel.

Used for irrigation and hydropower production, Lake Arpi is also the source of the Akhurian River. In 2009 a new park was established around the lake to protect the natural environment, with around 100 species of birds known to live in the area. Lake Arpi also hosts rich flora and fauna and is a Ramsar Convention protected site.

Lake Arpi has one the largest colonies of Armenian Gull and its recreation activities include camping and walking tours.

7. Noravank

Monasteries are one of Armenia’s defining characteristics and the example at Noravank is one of the most beautiful in the whole country. Sheer brick-red cliffs shield the monastery, which was built in the 13th century.

Noravank is famous for its Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, while the story goes that the monastery was saved by God himself when Armenia was conquered by the Mongols hundreds of years ago.

If you only choose to go to one monastery during a trip to Armenia, Noravank would be an extremely good selection – thousands of people visit every year.

The second largest city in Armenia, Gyumri is well worth a visit for anyone heading to the country for the first time. Perhaps the best place from which to enjoy the sights of Gyumri is from the Black Fortress on the hill that overlooks the city, while the massive Mother Armenia statue can also be found nearby.

Many of the most important cultural institutions of Armenia are in Gyumri, such as the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri, as well as the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum and the Sergey Merkurov House-Museum.

The Kumayri Historic District is Gyumri’s oldest area, with a thousand ancient buildings found here.

9. Vanadzor

Armenia’s third major city is Vanadzor, which is located in the north of the country. Vanadzor is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Lori region, which is certainly one of the best places to visit in Armenia.

The Vanadzor Botanical Garden is one of the finest tourist attractions in the city, while visitors should also consider checking out the Vanadzor fine art museum. The many mineral springs of the Lori region mean there are a wide range of terrific spas to enjoy in and around Vanadzor.

Although Vanadzor is primarily an industrial city, it also houses many theatres, such as the Bohem Chamber Theatre of Vanadzor and the Vanadzor Puppet Theatre.

10. Amberd Fortress

Dating back to the seventh century, Amberd Fortress is one of the most stunning places to visit in Armenia. Formerly among the Armenian Kingdom’s primary military-defensive points, the fortress can be reached in about an hour from the capital city Yerevan.

However, snowfall can make the fortress inaccessible during the winter months, with the weather usually improving by late May. The view from the top of the fortress is truly breathtaking, while the building itself is also stunning.

Amberd Fortress is a short trip from the village of Byurakan, home of the Byurakan Observatory.

11. Tsaghkadzor

Armenia’s mountainous scenery makes it ideal for winter sports and the country’s best ski resort can be found at Tsaghkadzor in the heart of the country. Ski lifts are paid for by the ride and are among the most affordable in Europe.

Tsaghkadzor boasts some of the finest hotels in the country, while the resort also has one of the nation’s biggest entertainment centers in the form of the Senator Royale casino complex.

Tsaghkadzor also has the Kecharis Monastery, which is one of Armenia’s most important religious complexes, dating back to the start of the 11th century.

12. Upper Azat Valley

The Upper Azat Valley is one of Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, partly due to the incredible Geghard Monastery for which the region is most famous. The main chapel was built 800 years ago but the history of the monastery goes all the way back to the fourth century, when it was founded by Gregory the Illuminator.

According to legend, the Geghard Monastery once housed one of the spears that was used to crucify Jesus Christ, brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, and as such it is one of Armenia’s most important religious sites.

The Upper Azat Valley is also home to the St Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) chapel, which is partially carved out of the rock.

13. Karahunj Observatory

Often referred to internationally as Armenia’s version of Britain’s Stonehenge, Karahunj is one of the most fascinating places to visit during a break in Armenia.

Located close to the city of Sisian in the Syunik province, Karahunj is made up of well over 200 massive stone tombs, while the main area sees 40 stones standing in a circular formation, supposedly built in honour of the Armenian main God, Ari, named after the Sun.

A small museum in Sisian is dedicated to findings that have been made at Karahunj, which is claimed to be the oldest observatory of its kind in the world.

14. Khor Virap

Views of Mount Ararat can be enjoyed from all over Armenia, but perhaps the best scenery of the mountain can be found from the Khor Virap monastery, which is definitely also worth visiting in its own right.

This location is one of the most important historic sites in Armenia’s history as it was where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years before he cured King Trdat III of his disease. The King then converted to Christianity, paving the way for Armenia’s religious future.

As such, Khor Virap is a popular spot for Armenian weddings today, while the underground chamber in which Gregory the Illuminator was held can be visited during a trip to Khor Virap, which is among Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage sites as a result.

Our final selection for the best places to visit in Armenia is Dvin, one of the country’s oldest cities – in fact, it was the capital of Armenia in medieval times. A sixth century BC fortress was also once situated in Dvin, according to Unesco, while incredible artefacts are regularly found in this part of Armenia.

More modern sights can also be enjoyed in the city, such as the St. Harutyun Church in Dvin, which was built in 2000.

Dvin once housed the Cathedral of St. Grigor, but all that remains of the building today is the stone foundations that have been uncovered by archeologists.

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia:

• Shikahogh State Reserve
• Dilijan National Park
• Mount Aragats
• Amberd Fortress
• Tsaghkadzor
• Upper Azat Valley
• Karahunj Observatory

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10 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 28, 2024

Armenia is an increasingly popular destination; in recent years, tourist numbers have shot up, and it’s very easy to see why. Blessed with dramatic, mountainous landscapes populated with deep gorges, sparkling lakes, and gushing rivers, the scenery is stunning wherever you go. As such, there is loads of great hiking to be had.

Due to its strategic location in the Caucasus, everyone from the Romans and Byzantines to Persians and Soviets have passed through the region. Throughout all this turmoil, Armenia impressively and resolutely retained its rich language, culture, and heritage.

Map of the best places in Armenia

As it was the first nation to embrace Christianity, there is a myriad of incredible old monasteries, churches, and chapels to explore, and these are invariably located in the most scenic settings imaginable. Whether you have a penchant for learning about the past or are keen to see some remote and wild wonderlands, you’ll find what you’re looking for in this list of best places to visit in Armenia.

10. Dilijan National Park

Home to some gorgeous scenery, Dilijan National Park in the northeast of the country will delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike. The peaceful, rolling hills and mountain ranges that make up most of the national park’s territory are covered in endless forest, with twinkling streams and babbling brooks coursing through the undergrowth.

Alongside the diverse array of fauna and flora are some beautiful lakes for you to check out, as well as some wonderful old monasteries that date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Of these, Hagharstin, Goshavank, and Matosvavank are particularly worth visiting. As a myriad of paths and trails snake through the magnificent scenery, Dilijan National Park is a lovely place to go hiking.

Lying on the banks of the Vararak River in a scenic valley hemmed in by mountains, Goris in the southeast of the country is a lovely place to visit. There are many fascinating historical and cultural landmarks for you to check out, alongside its amazing landscapes. The planned city’s tree-lined streets are perfect for ambling peacefully along.

As you stroll around, you’ll come across lots of charming old stone houses, a fantastic archaeological museum and art gallery, as well as a beautiful basilica that dates back to the fourth century.

Goris is a pleasant and peaceful town in which to spend a couple of days. The surrounding mountains and countryside are home to lots of enticing trails and paths, with Tatev Monastery and the fascinating Old Khndzoresk Cave Village both nearby.

8. Debed Canyon

Home to an astonishing array of little villages and towns, which each boast their own unique look, feel, and identity, traveling through the Debed Canyon is a magical experience. Linking Armenia to Georgia, the canyon weaves through some breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, with charming little villages dotted here and there.

Each village has a wealth of fascinating historic sights for you to check out, with churches, chapels, and forts all on display. Two of the main must-see attractions are the fabulous monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin which lie along the route.

With lots of great hiking trails snaking their way from the small villages into the surrounding mountains, Debed Canyon offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and nature.

7. Areni Wine Country

As grapes and vineyards have been cultivated here for over 6,000 years, it should come as no surprise to learn that the Areni Wine Country boasts some of the nation’s most delicious wines. Set among some stunning mountainous scenery, the vineyards blanket entire mountainsides and valley slopes, with charming little farmhouses and wineries punctuating the countryside.

While its fantastic local produce is what most people come for, the region also has some very interesting sights for you to enjoy, such as the ancient church of S Astvatsatsin and the Areni-1 Caves, which are home to a fascinating archaeological site.

6. Khor Virap Monastery

Set among some absolutely jaw-dropping scenery, the Khor Virap Monastery is well worth a visit. A popular pilgrimage site, the monastery is renowned throughout the country for its stunning backdrop that sees Mount Ararat in Turkey loom dramatically in the distance. Its exquisite chapel was remarkably built all the way back in 642 AD, with later additions and extensions added over the centuries.

Meaning ‘deep dungeon,’ it is in Khor Virap that Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned in the third century. After being released, he helped convert the local king to Christianity, which led to Armenia becoming the first Christian nation.

Located just a short distance away from Yerevan at the foot of the Khosrov Forest State Reserve, Garni is an enjoyable place to spend some time – although most people visit primarily to see its magnificent first century AD temple and delightful monastery. Perched atop a cliff edge overlooking ululating hills and mountains, the Temple of Garni displays some beautiful Hellenic architecture.

The 11th century Geghard Monastery has a fantastic fortified compound for you to explore, which encompasses a magnificent old church, elaborate carvings, and hot springs. Although these two historic sights are deservedly its main attractions, Garni has much more to offer: the surrounding countryside has a plethora of great paths and trails for you to hike, cycle, or horseback ride along.

In addition, the center of town has lots of fine restaurants on offer, as well as some beautiful old churches, while the nearby Garni Gorge is also well worth checking out.

4. Lake Sevan

The largest lake in the whole of the Caucasus, Lake Sevan’s tranquil waters seemingly stretch off into the distance forever. It is a popular holiday destination among both locals and foreigners alike due to the plethora of amazing recreational opportunities that it boasts.

Impressive old monasteries and churches, such as Sevanavank and Hayravank, can be found dotted along its scenic shores. However, it is the lake’s myriad of fantastic beaches that entice most holidaymakers, who come to lounge on their golden sands or enjoy the incredible array of watersports on offer.

Lying at around 2,000 meters above sea level, Lake Sevan is widely considered to be the ‘jewel of Armenia.’ Swimming in its inviting waters or sailing on its reflective surface are both popular pastimes, with hiking and cycling along its coastline also popular. While some villages and towns along the lakeshore are very laidback and make for a quiet getaway, others have lots of bars and nightclubs should you want a more lively holiday.

3. Noravank

Surrounded by ruddy red cliff walls, this incredible 13th-century monastery is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, and with good reason. Sporting some beautiful facades that are full of elaborate carvings and motifs, Noravank is a delight to visit.

Visitors can clamber up a steep stone staircase that winds up the side of the building if they want to explore the second floor.

While the architecture is certainly stunning for its intricacy and age, the surrounding Amaghu Valley is no less bewitching. Hiking through the gorge is a delightful affair as the red-brick walls tower above you. While the Surp Astvatsatsin Church is the site’s most photogenic feature, there are a couple of other lovely chapels and khachkars – Armenian cross-stones – for you to check out.

2. Geghard Monastery

Lying on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Garni, Geghard Monastery is a very popular day-trip destination from the capital and is certainly worth visiting if you have the chance. Carved out of the mountainside, with majestic peaks overlooking it, the famous monastery has a beautiful church for you to wander around.

There are also a number of gorgeous chapels showcasing some elaborate and intricate carvings, with some parts of the complex dating all the way back to the fourth century.

The monastery’s scenic setting is absolutely stunning. It’s no surprise that it has long been a place of pilgrimage, with people having visited the site long before Christianity first found its way to Armenia. A must-see when in Armenia, Geghard Monastery certainly won’t disappoint with its incredible rock-hewn churches and chapels and beautiful setting in the Azat River gorge.

Despite being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Yerevan has surprisingly little to show for it in terms of historic buildings and monuments. This is because Soviet planners knocked down most of them in the 1920s in an attempt to create a ‘perfect city’ in the vein of Paris or Saint Petersburg. As such, Armenia’s capital now makes for a fascinating place to explore as Soviet-era buildings lie alongside wide avenues with some delightful old buildings and churches to be found scattered here and there.

While Yerevan is certainly not a pretty city, it does have a lot going for it as its streets positively thrum with life and countless cafes and terraces occupy every street corner, square and park. As well as being home to a third of the country’s population, the city also boasts lots of great cultural institutions in the shape of its many museums and theaters. Of these, the haunting Armenian Genocide Museum is simply a must visit if you want to understand the horrific events that so profoundly impacted the nation and its people.

With so many different sides to it, it is well worth spending a few days in Yerevan before heading off to explore the many incredible landscapes and age-old historic sights that dot the country.

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18 Amazing Places to Visit in Armenia

Last Updated on 15/05/2024 by kami

Armenia is one of the most fascinating yet underrated countries I’ve ever visited. It might be landlocked but there are so many Armenia tourist attractions that when you visit Armenia you will not be disappointed.

In the past few years, I was lucky to travel to Armenia some 10 times and I know I will be returning there frequently in the future too. In fact, I’m writing this article from the cafe in Yerevan during my yet another trip to Armenia – this is how much I value this place.

And while Yerevan is one of my favorite cities in the whole world, there are so many other places to visit in Armenia. Below you can find a little overview of what to see in Armenia so you can plan your trip here properly and enjoy the country to the fullest.

Prepare yourself to see a lot of monasteries when you travel to Armenia – these are in fact the biggest Armenia tourist attractions. But during your Armenia sightseeing, you will see more than that!

Planning a trip to Armenia?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Armenia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Get insured for your trip to Armenia with SafetyWing

Best places to visit in Armenia

The capital and the biggest city in Armenia is where you will most likely start your trip to Armenia.

Even if Yerevan is older than Rome and recently celebrated its 2800th birthday you won’t find a classical old town with pretty buildings and charming corners. But Yerevan is such a fascinating place to visit!

Yerevan is often called “the pink city” thanks to the volcanic tuff that was used when building the place – it gives a pinkish color to the buildings.

The modern look of Yerevan was designed by Alexander Tumanyan at the beginning of the 20th century – he carefully planned the center of the city, with wide avenues, squares and green spaces. You can see it all still today.

When visiting Yerevan you can’t miss the Republic Square (with the singing fountains), the Cascade complex and Tsitsernakaberd – the Armenian Genocide memorial complex.

But the best things to do in Yerevan are to just wander around, visit a cafe or five and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Yerevan is one of my very favorite places ever and every time I visit Yerevan I fall for the city harder and harder. That’s why I’m here on my yet another Yerevan trip and that’s why I’m already thinking when I can visit Yerevan again.

Read more about Yerevan in my articles:

• 31 Amazing Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia
• Yerevan travel tips – all you need to know about visiting Yerevan, Armenia
• Guide to Yerevan Soviet architecture
• Guide to the Cascade in Yerevan – City’s Biggest Attraction
• Reasons to visit Yerevan, Armenia – one of my favorite cities

The biggest lake in the Caucasus, located at 1899 meters above the sea level is one of the highest located lakes in the world. It’s part of the Sevan National Park, one of the four protected areas in Armenia.

Lake Sevan takes 3% of the country, 28 rivers flow into the lake but only one, Hrazdan, flows out. The lake is known for the variety of flora and fauna, including the most famous Sevan trout.

But the beautiful nature and views aren’t the only reason to visit Lake Sevan, you can find some amazing monuments here too.

Don’t miss Noratus cemetery from the medieval times. You will find there some of the most beautiful khachkars – the Armenian carved cross-stones, each of them saying the story of the person who is buried there. This is actually the largest cemetery with khachkars in the world and a truly fascinating place.

Around Lake Sevan, you should also visit beautiful monasteries, especially Hayravank and Sevanavank. They both are located beautifully above the lake, offering amazing views of Lake Sevan.

Hayravank was built between 9th and 12th century and Sevanavank complex (there are two monasteries and the third ruined one) was founded in the year 874.

Near Sevanavank you can also find one of the best examples of brutalist architecture in Armenia – the Writer’s House.

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Located around 100 km north from Yerevan, in the heart of Dilijan National Park, Dilijan is often called “Armenian Switzerland”. This famous and important spa town was founded in 1544, however, the area was inhabited already in the Late Bronze and early Iron ages.

Dilijan is known for lush forests surrounding the city, perfect for the relaxation and long walks, but there are also a few other attractions.

From the town, you can go for a short hike to Jukhtak Vank, the semi-abandoned monastery from the 11th century, hidden in the forests surrounding the city. Not far from it there are ruins of another monastery, Matosavank from the 13th century, but this one is more difficult to find.

Not far from Dilijan there is another monastery worth visiting, Haghartsin, dating to the 13th century. This is actually the complex of three monasteries, the architecture is simple, a bit raw inside but still very impressive. From the monastery, you can admire a beautiful view of the surroundings.

But the main reason to visit Dilijan is to inhale clean, fresh air and enjoy beautiful nature around.

The second-largest city in Armenia, Gyumri, was badly devastated during the 1988 earthquake and even today you can still see how badly the city was destroyed then. But despite the tragedy that the city still suffers from, Gyumri is so worth a visit.

In 1837 Russians built the fortress here, called Alexanropol (named after the tsar), soon after the city was built nearby.

Before the earthquake, Gyumri was known as the most beautiful city in Armenia, today you can see the remnants of the former glory when walking around the pleasant center, with its main square – Vartanants Square. While Yerevan is known for the pink tuff the city was built from, in Gyumri, most of the buildings are black thanks to the volcanic tuff that was used here.

You will find here another one, after Yerevan, Mother Armenia statue – this one has a more friendly look than the one in the capital. Gyumri is also home to some interesting museums, churches, bazaar and some cool Soviet sculptures, such as the iconic metal fountain.

Read more about Gyumri in my article: Pictures of Gyumri, Armenia 25 years after the tragic earthquake

Garni Temple

Located not far from the capital, this is probably one of the easiest day trips from Yerevan. The pagan temple dedicated to the sun god Mihr, this is the best example of the pre-Christian Armenia monuments and the only building in the Classical style in the country and the former Soviet Union.

Some sources say the temple was built in the 1st century AD, after Armenia’s conversion to Christianity in the early 4th century the temple was used as a summer house of the royal families. Other sources say this is not the temple but a tomb and therefore it survived the transformation to Christianity period.

Garni Temple was destroyed during the earthquake in the 17th century but the original stones were used when rebuilding. This is the main center of neopaganism in Armenia and one of the country’s main tourist attractions.

Geghard Monastery

The monastery complex from the 4th century is one of the Armenian sights that made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List. What makes it special is the fact that many of the churches and tombs were cut into the rock, showing the Armenian medieval architecture at its best.

Since the 12th century, when the relicts of Apostles Andrew and John were donated to the monastery, the place became a popular pilgrim destination. The main church – The Katoghike Chapel – was built in 1215 on the shape of a cross. It is covered by the dome with the hole in the middle – its purpose is to give the light to the interior.

The Geghard Monastery complex has a beautiful location, surrounded by the breathtaking cliffs that are part of the Azat River Gorge. Getting to the monastery is interesting itself as the road leading to the complex is stunning too, going through the gorge.

You can combine visiting Geghard Monastery with Garni Temple as these sights are not too far from each other.

Haghpat Monastery

The beautiful monastery, located near the city Alaverdi in Lori Province , close to the Georgian border, was built between the 10th and 13th centuries during the rule of the Bagratid’s dynasty. In the Middle Ages, it used to play an important role as the religious, spiritual, educational, cultural and scientific center.

Some sources say that the first monastery in this place was built in the 4th century, on the ruins of the pagan temple. The monastery complex is surrounded by medieval walls. Inside you can find four churches, the library, the bell tower, the tomb, and numerous khachkars.

The main church, the Cathedral of Surb Nishan, was completed at the very end of the 10th century and shows the typical Armenian architecture from that period.

The location of the Haghpat complex was chosen on purpose, halfway on the hillside, overlooking Debed River. Haghpat Monastery is another site in Armenia that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sanahin Monastery

Sanahin Monastery complex is located not far from Haghpat Monastery and shares with it the inscription to the UNESCO World Heritage List. It was built in a similar time and for a similar purpose as Haghpat and is yet another architectural masterpiece in Armenia.

The name of the monastery, Sanahin, translates as “this one is older than that one”, probably to emphasize that it was created before Haghpat. In the monastery complex, there are 16 buildings and objects, including St. Gregory and St. Harutyun chapels as well as numerous khachkars decorated mostly in plants’ motives.

Amberd Fortress

The name of the fortress means “fortress in the clouds” in Armenian language and that is very accurate as the site is located 2.300 meters above the sea level, on the slopes of Mount Aragats, the highest mountain in the country.

The citadel was built between the 10th and 13th century and used to be one of the most important defense points on the Armenian territory.

Today you can still admire the remnants of the fortress as well as Vahramashen Church from the 11th century, the bathhouse and the hidden passage to the river Arkashen.

Saghmosavank Monastery

The beautiful monastery complex from the 13th century, located in the village of the same name, Saghmosavan in Aragatsotn Region , is worth a visit not only for its interesting architecture but also for the stunning location on the cliff above the deep gorge of Kasagh river.

The interior is rather austere and delicate, with bare walls and only a few low-key decorations. What makes it unique is the cross-winged domed structure with two-floor annexes in all the corners of the building, a similar one to the nearby monastery Hovhannavank.

If the weather is good you can see the highest mountain of Armenia, Aragats, from the monastery complex.

The Alphabet Monument

This has to be one of the quirkiest monuments I’ve ever seen! Located on the side of the road north of Yerevan, near the village Saghmosavan, you can find here 39 giant Armenian letters carved of the stone and decorated in the local motifs.

The Armenian alphabet was created by Mesrop Mashtots at the beginning of the 5th century and consist of one of the most unique and beautiful letters you will ever see.

At the monument, the letters are strewn around and are such fun things to see and admire. In the back, you will see the statue of Mesrop Mashtots carefully looking after his work.

The monument was created in 2005, to commemorate the 1600th birthday of the Armenian alphabet. The location might seem to be random but the final resting place of Mesrop Mashtots isn’t far away from the place.

Etchmiadzin

The official name of the city is Vagharshapat but everyone still uses Etchmiadzin as that’s how the place was called between 1945 and 1995.

The city is known as the spiritual capital of Armenia and is connected with Saint Gregory the Illuminator who built between 301-303 the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the world (back then it was a vaulted basilica). Over the centuries the church was rebuilt and enlargened but the altar still stands in the same place, where Saint Gregory the Illuminator saw the sunray that he read as a sign.

Other important places you can’t miss in Etchmiadzin are the Churches of Saint Hripsimé, Saint Gayane, and Saint Shoghakat, as well as the archaeological site of Zvartnots. They all are of a huge religious, historical and cultural importance and together with Etchmiadzin Cathedral, they all made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Zvartnots Cathedral

Located at the edge of Etchmiadzin, near the Yerevan airport, this is a wonderful archeological site, discovered at the very beginning of the 20th century.

The cathedral, dedicated to Saint George, was built here between 641 and 653, to commemorate the meeting of king Tiridates III and Saint Gregory the Illuminator that supposedly took place in this very location.

The cathedral was destroyed and buried during the earthquake in 930, these days you can only admire excavated ruins that are very picturesque, especially on a sunny day, with Mount Ararat in the background.

Khor Virap Monastery

This is probably the best known Armenian monastery, located on the plain near the closed border with Turkey and iconic Mount Ararat. The view of the monastery with Ararat in the background is probably the most pictured place in Armenia.

Khor Virap is a popular pilgrimage site due to the fact that Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Today you can go down the ladder to the dungeons where the Saint spent 14 years, the way down is a bit narrow and slippery so keep that in mind.

Besides the pit, you can also see here the Surp Astvatsatsin Church from the 17th century.

Noravank Monastery

This is one of my favorite places to visit in Armenia (besides Yerevan and the monasteries in the north), impressing me every single time. Noravank monastery complex is located at the end of the long and narrow gorge and is surrounded by high cliffs of beautiful orange and red colors.

The complex itself dates to the 13th century and shortly after became the seat of Syunik’s bishops and the important religious and cultural center of the country.

In the complex, you can visit twelve different objects, including two-floors Surb Astvatsatsin Church, Surb Karapet Church, and Surb Grigor Chapel as well as numerous khachkars. The monastery was partially destroyed by the earthquake in 1840 but was rebuilt still in the 19th century.

The village Areni is located not far from Noravank Monastery and you can find there yet another interesting Armenian church – of S. Astvatsatsin from the 14th century. But the main reason to visit Areni is to try its delicious wine.

Armenia is a country with one of the oldest wine traditions in the world and the majority of production comes from Areni. You can try the variety of wines in the local wineries as well as do some wine shopping here.

Besides the traditional wine, you can also taste here wine from different fruits, such as pomegranate, apricot, cherries or blackberries.

Tatev Monastery

Yet another one of Armenian monasteries with a spectacular location in Southern Armenia, the fortified Tatev Monastery was built in the early 9th century at the edge of the deep gorge in the southern part of the country. It always played an important role in the spiritual, cultural and educational life of the country.

Tatev Monastery used to be the seat of a bishop, that’s also where at the end of the 14th century the biggest university in Southern Caucasus was established, teaching students numerous sciences. In the monastery complex, you can visit three churches (Saints Paul and Peter, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and Holy Mother of God), a library, refectory, bell tower, mausoleum.

Getting to the monastery is quite an adventure itself! You can take windy roads on the edge of precipices or you can take the so-called “Wings of Tatev” cable car.

It was opened in 2010 and was included in the Guinness World Records as the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car. The cable car takes around 15 minutes to get from the Halidzor village to Tatev monastery, it’s a distance of 5.752 meters.

Zorats Karer / Carahunge

The prehistoric archaeological site, often called “the Armenian Stonehenge”, consists of 223 massive stones (84 of them have a circle hole drilled in the upper part) and is one of the most mysterious places in the country. The name Carahunge means “speaking stones” in Armenian – on a windy day, it seems like the stones give a sound.

40 stones create a circle that is believed to be the remnant of the temple dedicated to the pagan god of the sun. Other sources claim this is the ancient observatory or the cemetery. Numerous investigations took place at Zorats Karer but no one really knows what was the purpose of the stones.

These are only a few places to visit in Armenia but this underrated country in the Caucasus offers much more: Jermuk, Goris, Tsaghkadzor, Khndzoresk, Ashtarak, Meghri and many more! Armenia really had a lot to offer!

Visiting Armenia – practical information

Best time to visit armenia.

I would avoid summer months – it’s way too hot, even around 40 C degrees and more, and sightseeing can be a huge challenge that most likely you would not enjoy. I would also avoid New Year’s period – that’s when I’m in Yerevan when writing this article and almost everything was closed.

For me the best time to visit Armenia is either in spring (mid-April to mid-June) or autumn (September-October). The days should be warm and sunny, and long enough for you to see all the best attractions.

How many days to spend in Armenia

I think the minimum is 4 days in Armenia. This way you can see and enjoy Yerevan properly and go for two day trips around (I would recommend Lake Sevan, Garni + Geghard, Noravank and Khor Virap Monasteries). But of course, more is better!

How to get to Armenia

Ryanair and Wizzair are about to fly to Armenia, serving Yerevan and Gyumri airports. This will make traveling to Armenia so much easier!

I usually use LOT Polish Airlines and their direct flights from Warsaw to Yerevan – the downside is they land in the middle of the night and they are usually a bit pricey.

You can also easily travel to from Tbilisi, Georgia to Yerevan – there are comfortable transfers, not so comfortable marshrutkas and a night train available (I’ve done all of them, I would just avoid marshrutkas, for so many reasons).

How to travel around Armenia

Unfortunately, traveling around Armenia is a bit challenging. I visited all the places mentioned above and I only went to Gyumri and Dilijan using public transport, all the other sites were with organized tours.

And these are actually a pretty decent option if you want to see all these amazing places to visit in Armenia but don’t want to rent a car. You can base yourself in the capital and do all the day trips from Yerevan (that’s exactly what I always do).

Further reading

I published many articles about Armenia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 27 Armenia Travel Tips – all you need to know about visiting Armenia
• Armenia Itinerary – what to see in Armenia in 3-14 days
• How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Yerevan to Tbilisi) – a complete guide

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Armenia
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Armenia here.
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Armenia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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23 Comments

Keri | Ladies What Travel

What a great guide Kami – so much to see and do! I’d love to visit Armenia…

Thank you! I hope you will travel there soon, it’s a wonderful country!

Karen Vardazaryan

Great article Kami. Thank you so much! Welcome to Armenia!

Thank you, Karen! I’ll be back for sure!

Alison McKenna

What a fascinating article, Kami, and your photographs are exquisite! If one decides to hire a car, how challenging is it to drive there?

Thank you so much, Alison! I’m not a driver so it’s hard for me to say but the roads are often in not the best condition and driving in Armenia can be crazy (but not as crazy as in Georgia). It depends how comfortable and adventurous with driving you are as it’s definitely doable, just a bit more difficult than usual :)

Sher Maryn Le Bay

Wonderful article. Did you access all these places by bus or train? This is the part that is daunting!

I went to most of the places with tours as public transport is not available there. Fortunately tours in Armenia are affordable and plenty to choose from.

Once again a great write up and photos. It bought back some great memories as I was there in October and it was still quite warm. To Alison re: hiring a car. the roads can be quite rough. I spent 2 weeks there (not long enough) and used public transport and hitching (suggested by everyone to do and very safe, also met some wonderful locals that way). A lovely place, food and people. thanks again for your write up.

Thank you, Kris! Yeah, hitchhiking is another way to travel around Armenia. Sometimes you might be asked to pay a bit for the ride but in general it’s a safe and fun way to travel around.

Nice and new things to. Know

Thank you I was already in love with hayastan ????? and reading your blog refreshed me again ? thank you kami for this beautiful informational blog, your efforts can be seen here, enjoy traveling ??

Thank you, Sunny :) All the best!

Anna Garibian

Thank you Kami for another wonderful article about my homeland which I miss so much. You discovered the best and presented beautifully. Just adding a hidden treasure in Yerevan the house museums of famous poets writers and world famous composer Aram Khachaturyan’s house museum . All in the center of the city. They will bring an intimate touch to the heartbeats of the nation. For example poet Eghishe Charents ‘s apartment. Tumanyan’s house or poet Isahakyan’s house. All walking distance. Of course Parajanov’s art museum….and more. Thanks again.

Thank you, Anna, for the recommendations. I will make sure to check them next time I’m in Armenia!

Excellent post. Gives you a good outlook on where to travel to while in Armenia.

Thank you, I’m glad you liked it

After reading this blogpost, I want to go to Armenia even MORE. Hopefully this summer it will be possible. I’ve been to Georgia and loved it. Can’t wait to taste the Armenian natural wine (and compare :-) ) and try all the Armenian Food that I come across. What was your favourite?

You definitely should go to Armenia! It’s similar to Georgia but at the same time different, it’s difficult to compare those two. And the food is to die for! I loved everything I tried there! You are in for a treat :)

Hi, Kami, thank you for your article. Our friends company are thinking about traveling to Armenia this spring. I heard that it’s expensive country. could you share a bit what prices to expect?

I’ve never found Armenia expensive, it’s definitely cheaper than in Europe. But the last time I was there was before covid so things could have changed recently…

Ashraf El Shakaa

Hi Kami I Really Enjoyed Your article about Beautiful Armenia …Your Way of Explaining the Armenian attractions is Fascinating Digging into a n Old Country with full of History is really Very Interesting.. You traveled me back in Time during reading your lovely stories about Yerevan – Amazing Food you Enjoyed – Best places which actually all are wonderful and all other attractions . You let me feel that I am m In all this ….I will tell you ….Like a fool (The Famous Song) I will be waiting to Enjoy all this beauty and discover by myself after your nice article covering all the beautiful side of Armenian Life and Attractions ….Thanks Again Kami and wishing you all the best in Your Future articles ….Sincerly Yours ….Ashraf El Shakaa From Cairo – Egypt

Thank you so much for your kind comment, I’m glad you found the article interesting. All the best!

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20 MOST SPECTACULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN ARMENIA

It is very difficult to narrow down the most spectacular places to visit in Armenia simply because there are so many. From the trendy capital city of Yerevan to the fascinating Armenian historical sites throughout the country, the country captivates and enthralls. There is something for everyone in Armenia where the people are friendly, the Armenian cuisine is unique and the landscapes are breathtaking. Come see this collection of the most beautiful places to visit in Armenia.

I recently spent several days in Armenia sightseeing in both the little known Armenian cities as well as exploring the top Armenia tourist spots . I didn’t expect to find so many things to do and must-see Armenia landmarks . I came away with a great appreciation for the country and the Armenian culture . As a result, I can heartily recommend a visit to Armenia. 

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to learn at least a few words of Arenian before you go. There are many apps and ways to learn Armenian . And the effort will be appreciated.

Before delving into the most spectacular places to visit in Armenia , I want to share some helpful Armenian facts and information.

FACTS ABOUT ARMENIA

• The population of Armenia is about 3 million with over one-third in the capital city of Yerevan.
• Armenia was the first country to accept Christianity in 301 CE preached by Saint Gregory the Illuminator.
• Armenia is located in the Caucasus region, between the Caspian and Black Seas, along with Azerbaijan , Georgia, parts of Russia and parts of Turkey.
• Currency in Armenia is the dram. There are about 476 dram to the US dollar as of this writing.
• English is frequently spoken in the tourism industry and hotels in major cities.  The younger the people the more likely they are to speak some English.  Older people are more comfortable in Russian.
• ATMs are readily available in major cities, but less so in the countryside.
• The distance from the Yerevan airport to the city center is 14 kilometers, about 20 minutes.
•  Charles Aznavour was French-Armenian. His real name was Shahnour Vaghinag Aznavourian and he is considered a national hero in Armenia having assisted greatly after the earthquakes of the 1980s.

THE MOST SPECTACULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN ARMENIA

Table of Contents

Yerevan 

This capital city of about 1 million residents is the type of place you could linger in indefinitely and one of the best places to visit in Armenia.  The city is beautifully laid out with excellent transportation options, lively nightlife, good restaurants, helpful friendly people and a vibrant cultural life.

The must-see destinations in Yerevan are easy to find:

Start your Yerevan city tour at Republic Square , considered the center of the city. All roads lead from Republic Square.  Here’s where you find a good portion of the city’s cultural icons; the National History Museum and the Art Museum, conveniently both in the same building and worth a visit!

Another cultural icon is the Matenadaran , the nation’s repository of ancient manuscripts, gospels and other documents. Make sure to take the 30-minute tour!

A different cultural icon is the Ararat Brandy Company .  Brandy has a long cultural legacy in Armenia which is well represented here.  Take the tour, learn the history and taste the generous samples.  You will leave happy.

A fun place to hang out in Yerevan is the Cascade , a massive staircase rising to a view of Mount Ararat (don’t worry, there’s an escalator) and the Sculpture Garden below displaying sculptures for the likes of Botero and other prominent artists.

Mother Armenia , the statue of a woman holding a sword that looks over the city from a mountaintop, is a beautiful structure as well as a national symbol. Make sure to see the small museum at the base.

Shop at the Vernissage market for local crafts and souvenirs and at the Gum Market to sample traditional Armenian delicacies. Yum!!

If you want to experience the Yerevan nightlife, go wander Saryan Street until you find your perfect wine bar or restaurant. This is where Yerevan goes to enjoy the evening in their beautiful city while they snack on “lavash” (goat cheese wrapped in Armenian bread with condiments), and a glass of wine. Saryan Street is the place to be in Yerevan for wine lovers.  And even if you don’t like wine, this is such a fun place to people-watch, you shouldn’t miss it.

No matter what you do in Yerevan, no matter how long you are in the city, you cannot leave without visiting the Armenian Genocide Museum .  This well-curated museum explains the history of the Armenian holocaust at the hands of the Ottoman Empire.  It will give you insight into the culture and help you understand it.

Where to stay in Yerevan

Once you leave Yerevan, you begin to explore the Armenian countryside with its amazing landscapes.  One of the most beautiful sights is the view of Mount Ararat where legend has it, Noah’s ark rested after the flood, with the Khor Viral Monastery in the foreground.  The view is picture-perfect and a great photo opportunity.

Khor Viral Monastery View with View of Mount Ararat

Novarank Monastery

Two hours southeast of Yerevan is Noravank Monastery, clinging to a cliff, surrounded by rust-colored rocks.

This 13th-century monastery is known for its carvings, one of which is believed to be the only image of god in the country. The monastery has served many purposes throughout the centuries. It was once the residence of high-ranking clergy which made the monastery a religious center. It was also a cultural center and even a library.

Jermuk is the spa town in the area. During the Soviet Era, Jermuk is where people came to enjoy fresh mountain air, lovely landscapes and “sanatoriums.” A sanatorium was a spa-type establishment that offered massages, steam rooms and saunas. The town’s principal draw has remained and flourished after the Soviets left.  Today there are some pretty good spas available at extremely reasonable prices. One example is the Grand Resort.

Throughout the town, you can see abandoned Soviet Era structures still standing like movie theaters and enormous hotels clinging from mountainsides.  It’s fascinating to see these relics of the past and imagine what life must have been like during Soviet times.

Another town draw is the health waters of Jermuk.  In keeping with the town’s reputation as a health resort, there is a fountain that sprouts what is touted as waters with health benefits from different sprouts. All the waters have different temperatures. Tourists drink the waters and have their photos taken in the arcade sheltering the fountain.

Salim Caravanserai

Between the towns of Jermuk and Noratus there is an ancient caravanserai.  A caravanserai is an inn used as a stopping point by the caravans as they worked their way across Asia.  The ancient caravanserai were instrumental in encouraging the flow of information, commerce, ideas and people along the trade routes of Southeast Europe, North Africa and Asia, particularly the Silk Route.

Today there are caravanserai that have been reconstructed and transformed into hotels serving the same purpose as they did over 1000 years ago. You can find many of them in Baku, Azerbaijan , once a central transfer point in the ancient world, similar to what major airline hubs would be today.

The Salim Caravanserai in Armenia looks exactly as it did in the 13th century.  It is said that Marco Polo stayed there on his way to China.

What’s fascinating about this place is that you can see exactly what a caravanserai looked like and imagine how the people lived and traveled along the Silk Route.  There are separate rooms for the pack animals; camels, donkeys and horses.  The middle of the large room is reserved for cooking with an air chute still clearly visible above what was the cooking fire.  Directly in front of the animal stable section is the area where the humans slept and rested.

You can almost envision these long-distance traders wheeling and dealing and planning their next day’s journey by the light of the fire.  I found this to be one of the most interesting places to visit in Armenia.

Right outside the caravanserai an entrepreneurial couple sells souvenirs, Armenian delicacies and local flavored vodkas and brandies.

This is a must on your list of places to visit in Armenia simply for its uniqueness and historical value.

Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery

Next stop, Lake Sevan, the Pearl of Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world.

Lake Sevan is a popular getaway spot for Armenians.  There are restaurants around the lake offering fresh seafood and Armenian delicacies.

A short walk from the lake is the Sevanavank Monastery.  Climb the 200 steps of the monastery and be rewarded with a spectacular view of the shimmering lake.

The monastery itself is also impressive. It is part of a complex that dates back to the 4th century CE.

One of the many legends surrounding the monastery is that it was built by a princess who dreamt that the 12 apostles flew over the lake and indicated to her where the monastery should be built.

Since that time the monastery has been a rehabilitation center for misbehaving monks, a center for illustrating manuscripts, a writers residence and a summer retreat for high-level politicians.

The monastery was originally on an island but during an industrialization project the lake was drained of 65 feet and the island became a peninsula although the locals still refer to it as an island.

The monastery is worth a visit for its architecture and breathtaking views of the sparkling azure Lake Sevan.

Noratus and the Khachkars

Of all the places to visit in Armenia , the cemetery in the little town of Noratus was the most fascinating for me.

I love cemeteries. I believe they are perfect history lessons about the area you are visiting. Cemeteries reveal customs, attitudes and beliefs. The cemetery in Noratus was no exception.

The cemetery at Noratus is amazing for many reasons but mostly for the abundance of khachkars.

A khachkar is a carved memorial stone frequently used as a headstone or a memorial marker.  These stones, also called Armenian crosses, usually contain a cross design and are found throughout Armenia and parts of Turkey.

UNESCO has included the khachkars along with their craftmanship and symbolism in the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage .

Dilijan is a town with a lot going for it.  It is frequently referred to as Armenia’s Little Switzerland because of its spa areas, beautiful mountainous surroundings and main street, Sharambeyan Street, built to resemble a Swiss Village.

The town is situated within the Dilijan National Park and has long been regarded as an artistic center where artisans can work on their specialties and sell their creations directly to the public from their work studios.

The other big draw in Dilijan is the fabulous collection of ancient monasteries within the Dilijan National Park .

One of the monasteries in the national park that is definitely worth seeing and probably the easiest to access is Haghartsin Monastery, This ancient structure is said to have been originally built in the 9th century – no one is really sure -and renovated extensively in 2011. It is a large complex with hidden passages and soaring spires nestled on a leafy green mountainside. This is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Armenia and a photo opportunity you don’t want to miss.

Right outside the monastery is a gata stand.  What’s a gata? A gata is a traditional Armenian pastry eaten as a snack with coffee or tea. They are baked with flour, sugar and butter and stuffed with a variety of fillings like nuts, raisins or various fruits. A gata can be as small as the palm of your hand or as big as a car wheel.

Gatas are eaten during certain holidays or for no reason whatsoever. Sometimes a coin is baked into a large gata and whoever finds it is said to have good luck for the coming year.

Each Armenian region has its own take on gata. The gatas at the Dilijan National Park by the Haghartsin Monastery are representative of both the Dlijan specialty and specialties from various regions.

Batches of gata are made throughout the day and it’s fun to watch them bake the delicacies from scratch. It’s even more fun to taste them right out of the oven. I tasted the blueberry gata and it was outstanding!

Insider tip: Get there early to avoid the crowds.  This is a very popular tourist spot.

Where to stay in Dilijan.

About 130 kilometers north of Yerevan is Vanadzor, Armenia’s third largest city, the capital of Lori province and a major former industrial center in the Soviet Era.

As is the case with most of Armenia, Vanadzor is rich in archeological sites having been continuously inhabited since the Bronze Age. The city is decorated with lush gardens, pleasant pedestrian streets and broad plazas.

Vanadzor is also considered a major cultural center with many Armenians saying the country’s finest khachkars come from that vicinity.  Many artists make Vanadzor home including the inimitable Bogdan the khachkar carver who welcomes visitors into his workshop and regales them with his Armenian melodies.

On the way back to the capital of Yerevan, two fascinating places to visit in Armenia are the monastery of Geghard and Garni. These two attractions can also be visited as day trips from Yerevan.

If Geghard Monastery were in a country other than Armenia, it would be one of the top tourist attractions in the country. But  in Armenia, a country that is overflowing with UNESCO World Heritage sites, it is just one more must-see, jaw-dropping, amazing historical structure.

Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was actually carved out of the mountain!  When you see this place you can only imagine the effort that it took to accomplish this amazing architectural achievement.

The legend is that the spear that pierced Jesus’s side was once housed at Geghard. This made it a major pilgrimage site. Today, Geghard Monastery is visited for its religious significance as well as its architectural achievement.

This site was built in the 4th century CE although the main chapel was built in 1215. What’s fascinating about Geghard and what makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in Armenia are the adjacent chapels that were literally carved out of stone almost 1400 years ago with nothing beyond human and animal power.

A short distance from Geghard Monastery is the village of Garni with its magnificent temple.

Built in the 1st century CE, this ancient temple of Garni is the only Greco-Roman structure in Armenia.

There is speculation as to the temple’s original purposes. Some historians claim it was originally built as a temple to the local sun god.  Others say it was initially a tomb which is why it survived the destruction of the pagan temples when the area Christianized.

Whatever its origins, it is truly spectacular and a must-see site in Armenia. 

Where to stay in Garni

The Symphony of Stone

Nearby is one of the most interesting places to see in Armenia , the Symphony of Stones.

The Symphony of Stones are basalt column formations clinging to the cliff sides of the Garni Gorge.

Just before reaching the Greco-Roman temple, there is a road that takes you down to the valley. As you descend you will begin seeing the columns which continue to the valley floor.

This is a must-see natural phenomenon you will never forget.

Armenian Cuisine

Armenian cuisine is not only about food, it is about culture.  Besides being delicious, many of the specialties have interesting backstories or are prepared using unusual methods.

Common ingredients in Armenian food include eggplant, lamb, cheeses -particularly goat, and bulgur or cracked wheat rather than rice.  These are not highly spiced dishes relying instead on the freshness of the ingredients for flavor.

The gatas mentioned above are very popular and after tasting one I can understand why. Biting into a freshly baked gata is a very rewarding experience.

Another amazing dish you will see at almost every meal is the lavash. Lavash is a thin flatbread cooked in a tandoor oven and eaten with various accompaniments like goat cheese, tomatoes, jams and herbs. It is frequently used to roll up the sides and eaten like a taco.

Just like a gata, a fresh-out-of-the-oven lavash is delightful.  Lavash is found throughout the Caucasus, parts of Turkey and Iran, but it is almost mandatory in Armenia.

The lavash and its preparation is such an integral part of Armenian culture that it was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2014.

The most interesting thing about lavash is how it is prepared.  The tandoor ovens can sometimes be underground. The dough is kneaded, placed on a cushioned platform and slapped onto the side of the oven. When it is retrieved, and fully baked, it is hung to dry.  It’s quite a spectacle.

Does Armenia sound like a place you want to visit? Read more about this fascinating country in these guide books.

What are your thoughts on the best paces to visit in Armenia? Let us know in the comments which of these locations most impressed you.

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I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Talek Nantes

5 responses.

Thank you for transporting me to this far-flung location. I have always wanted to visit Armenia, and have a few friends whose families originate from there. It was delightful to see the Botero statue in Yerevan as we were recently in Colombia. The image of Khor Viral Monastery View with View of Mount Ararat took my breath away.

Yes, it is an amazing country. Botero actually several statues there. He is quite prolific. So glad you liked the post and thank you for commenting.

Wow, Armenia looks beautiful. There are so many places to see in the world but this post definitely made me add Armenia to my list!

Yes, Armenia is pretty amazing. The food and the wine was also quite a surprise. Thanks so much for reading and commenting.

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Must-see attractions in Armenia

Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum

Commemorating the massacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1922, this institution uses photographs, documents, reports and films to…

History Museum of Armenia

Its simply extraordinary collection of Bronze Age artefacts make this museum Armenia's pre-eminent cultural institution and an essential stop on every…

Founded by Bishop Hovhannes in 1205 and sensitively renovated in the 1990s, Noravank (New Monastery) is one of the most spectacular sites in Armenia and…

Old Khndzoresk

Dug into volcanic sandstone on the slopes of Khor Dzor (Deep Gorge), the village of Old Khndzoresk was inhabited as far back as the 13th century. By the…

Cafesjian Center for the Arts

Housed in a vast flight of stone steps known as the Cascade, this arts centre is one of the city's major cultural attractions. Originally conceived in the…

Khor Virap Monastery

Located 32km south of Yerevan at the foot of Mt Ararat, Khor Virap has been repeatedly rebuilt since the 5th century. Legend says the pagan King Trdat III…

Sergei Parajanov Museum

For something totally unique, head to this museum near Hrazdan Gorge. Crammed with collages, drawings, photographs and assemblages created by the…

Matenadaran

Standing at the top of Yerevan’s grandest avenue, this cathedral-like manuscript library is a source of enormous pride to all Armenians. The first…

Northern Armenia

On a promontory between the gorges of the Dzoragets and Miskhana Rivers, this ruined fortress has huge towers and massive stone blocks along its exposed…

Marmashen’s location deep in a river valley 10km northwest of Gyumri is unusual – medieval monasteries in Armenia were almost always constructed in…

Haghpat Monastery

Occupying a commanding position overlooking the gorge, this monastery has atmosphere and architectural splendour in spades. Founded around 976 by Queen…

Republic Square

From dawn till late into the night, Republic Sq is Yerevan's focal point and beating heart. Designed by architect Alexander Tamanyan as part of his 1924…

Medieval Goris Cave Dwellings

Locals say the cave shelters of Old Goris carved into the hillside on the east side of town were built and inhabited in the 5th century. Several trails…

Approximately 900 khachkars (headstones) dating from as far back as the 10th-century dot this breathtaking cemetery on the western edge of Lake Sevan…

Hovhannavank

Perched on the edge of the Kasagh Gorge, this monastery in the village of Ohanavan was once an important educational and theological centre where…

Saghmosavank

Surrounded by a fortified wall and commanding wonderful views over the Kasagh Gorge and to Mt Aragats, Saghmosavank (Monastery of Palms) is located in the…

Centre of Popular Creation

Its somewhat esoteric name means that many visitors to Yerevan overlook this museum. This is a great shame, as it is home to the best folk-art collection…

Museum of the Aslamazyan Sisters

Artists Mariam (1907–2006) and Yeranuhi (1910–98) Aslamazyan were born in Bash-Shirak village near Gyumri and two floors of this handsome 19th-century…

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Etchmiadzin is the Vatican of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the place where Surp Grigor Lusavorich saw a beam of light in a divine vision, and where he…

Zvartnots Cathedral

Catholicos Nerses III (known as 'the Builder') sponsored construction of the 'Celestial Angels Cathedral' in the 7th century. Destroyed in the 10th…

Areni-1 Cave

In 2007, proud Armenians were ecstatic when archaeologists discovered the world's oldest known winery dating back 6100 years at this cave. The next year,…

Haghartsin Monastery

Hidden in a verdant valley 13km northeast of Dilijan, Haghartsin ('Dance of the Eagles’) was built between the 10th and 13th centuries and has three…

Martiros Sarian Museum

This museum preserves the studio and some of the works of 20th-century painter Martiros Sarian, known for his vibrant colour-saturated canvases. On the…

Akhtala Monastery

Akhtala, a small village 20km northeast of Alaverdi, has one major claim to fame: the magnificent frescoes in its 13th-century church. These include a…

Constructed on a ridge above the confluence of the little gorges of the Amberd and Arkashen streams, this majestic stone fortress dates back to the 7th…

Sanahin Monastery

Sanahin is a World Heritage site packed with ancient graves, darkened chapels and medieval study halls. The inner sanctum of the cross-shaped Surp…

Harichavank

Once the summer residence of the Catholicos of Etchmiadzin, the still-functioning Harichavank is located in the old town of Harich, about 4km from the…

Tatev Monastery

The bishops of Syunik built the main church, Surp Poghos-Petros (St Paul and St Peter), in the 9th century to house important relics. There are faint…

A pagan temple once occupied this elevated site overlooking the lake, but was replaced by a now-ruined church in 305. Two further churches, Surp…

Spitakavor Monastery

Only accessible by foot or 4WD, this 14th-century monastery was built on the site of a 5th-century basilica and has a church, gavit (antechamber) and bell…

Founded in 1188 by the saintly Armenian cleric Mkhitar Gosh, who was buried in a little chapel overlooking the main complex, this monastery features a…

Snow covers the top of the highest mountain in modern Armenia almost year-round, so climbing is best from July through September. Be careful, though –…

Sardarapat Memorial & Museum

Set on a hill, the stunning orange tuff memorial at Sardarapat commemorates the battle in May 1918 when forces of the first Armenian republic turned back…

Kobayr Monastery

Perched above the hamlet of Kobayr is the 12th-century monastery of the same name. The main church has some partially restored Georgian-style frescoes and…

Yervand Kochar Museum

Though small, this fascinating museum does a great job of documenting the life and work of the prolific Armenian painter and sculptor. The museum…

St Astvatsatsin Church

Built on the site where legend tells us St Thomas buried Christ's swaddling clothes in the 1st century, the core of St Astvatsatsin dates from the 5th…

Surp Gevorg

This handsome 17th-century church is located in the neighbourhood of Mughni, on the northern edge of Ashtarak. It features striped bands of stone around…

National Gallery of Armenia

Housed on the top floors of the History Museum, Armenia's foremost art gallery holds a large but somewhat underwhelming collection of European and Russian…

Cathedral Museum

Etchmiadzin's main museum houses precious objects and relics, including the Holy Lance (Surp Geghard), the weapon allegedly used by a Roman soldier to…

Dilijan Local Lore Museum and Picture Gallery

Housing an eclectic collection of European and Armenian art from the 16th to 20th centuries, this gallery is Dilijan's major cultural institution. Some of…

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Places to Visit in Armenia

• Places To Visit

Armenia Places to Visit

Here is the list of best places to visit in armenia:, vagharshapat.

Vagharshapat is the fourth-largest city of Armenia and one of the most amazing places to visit in Armenia. The place is located to the west of Yerevan city and in the basin of River Kasagh. It is primarily known as a very religious place because of its innumerable church and cathedrals. This city is a smaller but beautiful place in Armenia where you can find tons of hidden destinations and unique things to do. It is a perfect spot to leave behind work chaos, to relax and take a break. Some of the top destinations that you can visit here include Gayane church placed in the vicinity of the famous Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Hripsime church, a prehistoric church of Armenia, and the beautiful Zvartnots Cathedral. Here you can also take your friends and family for an adventure to visit the Hidden house-museum of famous Poet Hovhannes Hovhannisyan. You can also have the most amazing dinner in the oldest restaurant in the Caucasus or take a day trip to Voskevaz Winery. Now talking about the weather here, the best time to visit this city is in the summer months between June to August. At the same time, you can experience cold chilly winter days between December to February.

Lying on the serene left bank of River Hrazdan, the quaint city of Hrazdan is the administrative hub of the Kotayk region. Sitting approximately 45 kilometers away from the capital Yerevan, this small town has a very thin human population of around 53,000. Packed with plastic, machine-building, and cement factories, Hrazdan also makes for the industrial hub of Armenia. Surrounded by majestic mountains and featuring charming streets lined with verdant apple trees and lush pine plantations, Hrazdan city brims with sheer natural beauty. The city also offers a rustic environment and ancient buildings, which add a mystic charm to it. The beautiful city of Hrazdan is packed with a myriad of attractions that make it even more appealing for holidaymakers. The prime place of interest that are responsible for propelling millions of globetrotters to this city every year include the Hrazdan Branch of State Gallery, the Hrazdan Geoscience Museum, the History Museum, the Hrazdan River, the Tsovinar Lake, and the Makravan Monastic Complex. Hrazdan city offers its visitors a myriad of mind-boggling activities to make their holiday totally action-packed. You can take a walk through history at the State Gallery of Armenia, watch a play at the Hrazdan Town Dramatic Theatre, stroll around Lake Tsovinar, and seek blessings at Aghbyur Church. Hrazdan experiences a continental climate with winters being cold and snowy and summers being moderate and rainy. The best time to visit the city is between late June and early September.

Yerevan is the biggest city of Armenia and also its capital. It is older than Rome and has recently cherished its 2800th birthday. It is located on the Hrazdan River, which is 14 miles away from Turkish frontiers. The charming corners and pretty buildings makes this classic old Town a fascinating place for people to visit. Further, people also call it the pink city because of the volcanic tuff which gives the buildings pinkish colour. When you land in this vibrant city, start your journey with Republic square, where you will find many iconic spots like the National History Museum and Art Museum. Also, visit the Armenia Genocide Memorial, which will tell you all about the country's troubled past. Apart from these beautiful places, Yerevan also offers its tourists a couple of thrilling activities to try, like zip-lining in Yell Extreme Park, skiing or snowboarding in Tsakhkadzor ski resort. Here in this ski resort, you can also try paraskiing, which will surely make you feel like a bird. If you plan to visit Yerevan, try visiting it in the summer months, i.e. between June to August when the weather is hot and dry. However, the winter months start from December to February when it's freezing and often snow.

It is situated in the north-western part of Armenia and is also its second-largest city. It is yet another interesting tourist place in Armenia, which is steeped in disaster and history. The place is comparatively remote and still trying to rise after the devastating earthquake incident in 1988. This is a beautiful historic place with prominent museums, an impressive historic district and lovely parks. This picturesque city attracts thousands of tourists with its hospitality, delicious local food and beautiful architecture. So if you plan to visit this place, make sure to visit the stunning Black fortress built with black volcanic tuff. Also, to explore secret corners and enjoyable spots, do explore Kumari Historic district. However, if you want to try unique activities here, try beer tasting in Poloz Mukuch or eating the freshest food in Gyumri handpicked by yourself in Cherkezi Dzor. You can also have a family picnic in the most beautiful park Gorky Park. Moreover, the weather condition of Gyumri in summer (from June to September) is warm and dry with a clear sky. However, in the winter days (from December to January), it's snowy, freezing and partly cloudy.

Best of Turkey

Vanadzor is the third leading city in the northern section of Armenia. It is placed at an altitude of 1425m above sea level and is a fantastic place in Armenia worth visiting. The city is filled with lush greenery, a hyperactive outdoorsy population and obscure places. People come to this enthralling and beautiful city to try its excellent food, admire its stunning nature and relax. To witness the city's prehistoric ethnicity, you need to visit the Vanadzor City Hall; the place illustrates the structural design of bygone eras. This city's other attraction spots include Master Mehrab's House, Hayk Square, St, Saint Gregory, Tairov's House, etc. One of the best things about Vanadzor is it gives its tourists an opportunity to bike, hike, raft, rock climb and engage in many more activities. Also, don't forget to take a stroll through the botanical garden of Vanadzor and drink the natural mineral water directly from the mountains, which the locals call Tetuh Djour. Moreover, people mostly visit this place in the summer months (June to August) when the temperature is warm, dry and clear. However, for enjoying the freezing months of Vanadzor, plan your trip between December to February.

Best of Georgia

Other Attractions

Garni Temple

Geghard Monastery

Republic Square

Sanahin Monastery

Amberd Fortress

Saghmosavank Monastery

The Alphabet Monument

Zvartnots Cathedral

Zorats Karer

Shikahogh State Reserve

Dilijan National Park

Mount Aragats

Tatev Monastery

Karahunj Observatory

Tsaghkadzor

People Also Ask About Armenia

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Top 10 things to do in armenia.

I think it’s probably fair to say most people couldn’t place Armenia on a map, let alone know or name all the amazing things to do there!

But that’s a real shame for them, because little do they know what they are missing out!

Yup, newsflash in case you haven’t read any of my other articles about this amazing country, but I loved my time in Armenia and found that the 10 days I’d allocated to travel there simply wasn’t enough time to soak it all in as much as I wanted.

So hold the phone if you thought there was nothing worth going to this country for, here’s my list of 10 incredible things to do in Armenia to convince you otherwise…

Related Posts

• 18 Things You Need to Know Before You Travel Armenia
• Perfect Armenia Itinerary: 2 Days to 2 Weeks
• 25 Best Things to Do in the Caucasus Region

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

#1 Caffeinate in Yerevan!

The first entry in this article is not a huge bucket list tick item, it’s not even hugely dramatic, but is is simply delightful and delicious!

The extraordinary in the ordinary is largely what travel is about for me… and Armenia is exactly that all over!

Because yes, the first thing on this list of the best things to do in Armenia is to drink coffee.

Because this is basically a national pastime!

And that’s especially true in the capital Yerevan, where you’re likely to begin your time in Armenia.

So, you see, it makes the perfect place to start!

Yes in Yerevan, it seems, there’s more cafes than people!

So, spending time in at least a few of those that line the streets, squares and parks here – people-watching, enjoying the sunshine and taking in the gentle delight and pleasant vibes of this leafy city – is a must while you are here.

The top places for local coffee in Yerevan are the streets around Republic Square in the old part of the city.

Overall I recommend you spend 2 days in the capital – plenty of opportunity to get your caffeine fix!

#2 Witness the Genocide Memorial Complex

And then, changing tact completely, another one of the most important things to do in Armenia while you’re in Yerevan too, is the visit the genocide memorial here.

This significant place is very important when it comes to remembering and honouring the Armenians killed during this awful part in their history.

The museum and memorial are free to enter and very interesting, so if you don’t much about what happened during this tragic time, this is a great way to educate yourself.

Learn more about this place in my list of the top things to do in Yerevan , which gives more details.

#3 Snap Lake Sevan

And now we move north from the capital Yerevan to the next must-see place on this list in Armenia, and that is Lake Sevan.

This is the biggest body of water not only in Armenia, but across the whole Caucasus region!

At 1900m above sea level, it’s also one of the largest freshwater alpine lakes in Euroasia!

As a landlocked country, the huge Lake Sevan kind of acts as a kind of beach in this country, with a real holiday feel of people enjoying themselves all around.

It’s a peaceful spot, where families come to relax at the weekend and get away from the buzz of the city.

If you’re a fish eater, you can get some delicious fresh stuff here, and snapping the picturesque setting of the lake, with its mountainous backdrop and quaint Sevanavank Monastery in the middle, is certainly one of the best things to do in Armenia.

#4 Make it to Noravank Monastery

And while we’re on the subject of monasteries, it’s definitely fair to say Armenia has its fair share!

And that’s an understatement!

As the oldest official Christian nation in the world, Armenia is literally awash with monasteries, and most are still in use and adorned with beautiful frescoes common across the Orthodox church that still forms the backbone of everyday life here.

As such, making the climb up to at least a few of them (most sit on top of hills) is a must-do thing in Armenia.

Special mention has to go to the stunning Noravank (which dates back to the 13th century) and those in the north of the country, such as Sanahin and Haghpat, which are UNESCO-listed.

If you want to tick just a few off your list, I recommend these.

#5 Stroll the Historic Streets of Dilijan

And back to Lake Sevan now we go because, just down the road from there, is the historic town of Dilijan.

Visiting this quaint, historic and charming town is definitely one of the best things to do in Armenia.

Especially because it can be easily combined with visiting Lake Sevan – either on a day trip from Yerevan or on an overnight stop.

There is a specific part of this small town that has been beautifully restored, which is certainly worth a stroll and a snap, but it was the riverside setting of Getap that really captured my heart here.

In addition, the Haghartsin Monastery in the nearby National Park, and the cable car ride at Tsaghkadzor are also well worth some of your time while you’re in this area.

And that’s not to mention the hiking in the dramatic forested slopes around, the unique cultural and crafty activities here (such as the folk museum), or the array of delicious food in this famous culinary spot.

Did I say enjoy an overnighter or day trip here?

I meant stay and explore for a few days!

#6 Ride the Tatev Cable Car

Yes it might just be that Armenia is the land of cable cars!

And I’m not joking!

With the one at Tsaghkadzor is the most popular, it is still outsized by the enormous cable car in the south of the country at Tatev.

This is meant to be the longest cable car ride in the world – quite the claim for a country as small as Armenia – and the famous Tatev Monastery at the top makes it totally worth the ride!

Completed in 2010, the so-called Wings of Tatev are located around 250km south of Yerevan and still hold the record for the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world!

The cable car was built as part of a non-commercial project, where all profits continue to be reinvested in the development of the local community and the restoration of Tatev Monastery.

The Monastery itself, which is the shining jewel in this area, dates back to the 9th century,

Most impressive in my opinion is its location – constructed on the edge of a dramatic gorge, the Vorotan River which flows below completes the picture in this stunning viewpoint.

While Tatev is accessible from Yerevan as part of a day trip, it’s a heck of a long way and I really recommend you spend the night out there to enjoy Tatev, the cable car and the monastery to their full potential.

#7 Hike Near Goris or Goght

And we can’t go on much longer in this list of the best things to do in Armenia and not talk about hiking, especially in and around Goris, which is the largest town near Tatev.

For this country is a hiker’s paradise, and around Goris is a particularly beautiful area.

What I loved about hiking in Armenia is just how off the beaten track and undiscovered it all felt.

Safe without a guide, as long as you have downloaded maps.me , a lot of the hiking here is along ancient village paths that cross atmospheric stone monasteries and boast stunning views.

The organisation, Hike Armenia , have lots of information about multi-day trails across the country (check out their website or head into their Yerevan office to learn more), otherwise the area around Geghard, Garni and Goght – just south of the capital – is another great location to strap on your walking boots for a good hike.

If you do make it to the Geghard, Garni & Goght area, I highly suggest staying at the wonderful 3G’s Guesthouse and Camping.

The friendly English-speaking owners here can fill you in on all the best walks to enjoy in the surrounding area and their place is an utter dream for independent travellers looking to relax, socialise and soak in the stunning surrounds.

#8 Visit Geghard, Garni & Khor Virap

And while we’re on the subject of Geghard and Garni, don’t miss a visit to these top destinations as one of the best things to do in Armenia.

UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery is a must-see and, on the way, you can’t neglect to try and taste the freshly baked lavosh bread.

You’ll see it being made by women in the traditional sunken clay ovens just on the side of the road here!

Once at the monastery enjoy the atmospheric site of this Medieval place of pilgrimage, which was partially carved out of the adjacent mountain and is surrounded by cliffs.

If you get to hear local women singing here, it is a truly spellbinding experience.

Garni Temple, just down the road from Geghard, is another important religious building in Armenia, but one that pre-dates the country’s Christian status.

An impressive Roman Temple, thought to date back to the 1st century AD, you’ll find it set atop a stunning valley… don’t miss seeing this place during your time in Armenia either.

Only 30km Yerevan, it’s actually one of the few places to get to in this country easily by public bus!

There is a small entrance fee payable at the gate.

Oh and while you’re in this part of the country, Khor Virap is a must too!

Another epic monastery in Armenia that lies not far from the area of Garni, Geghard and Goght, its name translates as “deep dungeon”!

This is because, before it was a monastery, it was a Royal dungeon thought to be built in 150 BC. A small chapel then followed in the 5th century AD and the Monastery you see today was finally constructed in the 16th century.

Open 8am – 8pm, you can get to Khor Virap from Yerevan by public bus, but this will require a 1-2km walk at the end.

As such, I recommend taking a tour or hiring a private driver to get there.

You can get some stunning snaps here at what is one of Armenia’s most iconic locations, the snow-capped Mount Ararat framing the perfect backdrop!

#9 Eat and Drink

And coming in at number 9 is one of the absolute top things to do in Armenia, and that is, namely, eat and drink!

Yes, the land of the plentiful, Armenia has a huge wealth of fresh produce and without the use of pesticides (i.e. most of the grown food here is naturally organic and chemical-free) all of it tastes absolutely delicious!

The apricots, in particular, are something of a national treasure and no time in the country is complete without trying them.

Fresh vegetables and nuts are also sensational and I’ve already touched on the amazing local bread – lavosh – still made in the traditional way.

And then we move on to the drinking!

The wine, which Armenia is famous for, is both cheap and delicious – sampling some is a near rite of passage!

And if you visit Areni, then you can also see the stuff being produced too.

And then there’s the delicious spring water.

Public fountains are everywhere in Armenia and constantly flowing with delicious mountains-fed spring water, drinking from them (and filling up your water bottle) is a must.

#10 Hitchhike

And finally, it’s a bit of a strange one, but last on my list of the top things to do in Armenia is to hitchhike!

And you might not even have to try very hard for this one, because right across the rural parts of this country (i.e. most of it!) you’re likely to be picked up by a friendly driver without even having to stick your thumb out.

Such is the nature of getting around in this country, and such is the friendly and hospitable nature of its people, that hitchhiking almost forms part of a cultural experience in Armenia.

Be it long or short distances, in a truck, a car or a van, hitchhiking in Armenia really is part of life in this country and it’s an amazing, cheap and culturally-rich way to see it!

Sometimes you don’t even have to stick your thumb out and people stop automatically to see if you need a lift!

Just make sure you stay safe and act sensibly.

And if you are travelling on a budget, then check out the full cost breakdown of my trip to Armenia and learn just how cheap this country is!

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Mini Travel Guide to Armenia

When to Visit Armenia?

Winters in Armenia can be fiercely cold with snow and freezing temperatures not uncommon across the country, especially in the mountainous areas. At this time, many roads become impassable and travelling difficult.

As such, I would definitely visit Armenia during the summer months, when the climate is wonderfully warm and the skies are almost always blue.

The summer season here runs roughly from May to September, however July & August can be super hot (like 40 degrees hot), so do bear this in mind if you’re not a fan of the heat and want to enjoy some hiking.

I visited Armenia in June and the weather was perfect – very warm and clear days, with loads of wildflowers around and perfect hiking conditions.

Based on this, I would suggest the shoulder season months of May, June and September as the ideal times to visit this country when the weather is good enough to enjoy getting outdoors and sightseeing, but not too hot that you’ll worry about burning and dehydrating!

How to Get to Armenia?

The capital of Armenia, Yerevan has a small, but well-appointed international airport that is an easy taxi ride from the city centre.

The cheapest flights generally arrive here from Dubai and Istanbul, so check out FlyDubai and Pegasus Airlines via Skyscanner if you’re looking to score a well-priced ticket.

Otherwise, many people take a budget flight to Kutaisi in Georgia, and from there head to Tbilisi and cross overland to Yerevan.

This is easily and cheaply done either by overnight train or a local minivan (known as a mashrutka ) ride, which takes around 6-7 hours.

How Long to Spend There?

I’d suggest at least 1 week in Armenia to ensure you have the chance to tick most of the major sights off your list.

Travelling around this country is not always the easiest so, even though it’s small, you’ll need to factor in driving or irregular bus times

Best Budget Accommodation in Armenia

• Yerevan – MGA Hostel
• Geghard / Garni – 3G’s camping and guesthouse
• Dilijan – Old Dili

Recommended Tours in Armenia

Check out these fantastic tours of Armenia , which will help you see the best of this country.

5 Packing Essentials for Armenia

#1 Caucasus Lonely Planet – Still my go-to when it comes to guidebooks, the Caucasus Lonely Planet packs in a huge amount of information about travelling in Armenia, Georgia & Azerbaijan and will likely save you the cost of a guide in many of this country’s fabulous historical attractions.

#2 Good Camera – From the mountain landscapes to the village life, you’ll want a good travel camera to capture the best of Armenia and the Sony A6000 mirrorless ticks my box every time!

#3 Headscarf – If you’re heading to see any monasteries in Armenia, ladies will need to come prepared with a headscarf to enter, as well as a long skirt or pair of pants and a long-sleeved top.

#4 Hiking Shoes – No trip to Armenia would be complete without spending at least a day or two hiking in this country’s untouched rural landscape. Coming prepared with a pair of good walking shoes is essential therefore and Keen Targhee’s II always get my vote!

#5 Rain Jacket – I visited Armenia in June, technically the start of summer and the high season, but was amazed how storms suddenly blew in across this high altitude country. Having my North Face lightweight, windproof and waterproof jacket therefore saved my life!

Travel Insurance for Armenia

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my list of the 10 best things to do in Armenia.

Is this country on your list yet?

Don’t hesitate to let me know any questions you may have and I’ll do my best to answer!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Top 10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Armenia

Published: September 10, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Viviana Littrell

• Arts & Culture
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Armenia, a beautiful country nestled in the heart of the Caucasus region. With its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Armenia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers from around the world. From the vibrant capital of Yerevan to the ancient monasteries dotting the countryside, there is no shortage of stunning places to visit in this enchanting land.

Armenia boasts a history that spans over thousands of years, with a vibrant culture shaped by its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The country is known for its fascinating archaeological sites, majestic mountains, picturesque lakes, and charming villages. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply in search of natural beauty, Armenia has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 most beautiful places to visit in Armenia. From ancient monasteries to stunning natural wonders, each destination on this list is a testament to Armenia’s awe-inspiring beauty and rich heritage. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of Armenia.

Let’s start our journey in the vibrant capital city of Armenia, Yerevan. Known for its blend of ancient history and modern cosmopolitan lifestyle, Yerevan offers a unique experience to its visitors.

One of the highlights of Yerevan is the Cascade Complex, a massive staircase that connects the downtown area with the Victory Park on top of a hill. As you ascend the steps, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city and Mount Ararat in the distance. The complex is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, which showcases contemporary art exhibits.

Another must-visit attraction in Yerevan is the iconic Republic Square. This grand square is surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Government House and the History Museum of Armenia. Admire the beautiful fountains and take a stroll along the wide boulevards lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

For history enthusiasts, the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial is a somber yet important place to visit. It commemorates the millions of Armenians who lost their lives during the genocide in the early 20th century. The museum offers a comprehensive insight into the tragic events through exhibitions, photos, and personal stories.

No visit to Yerevan would be complete without exploring the city’s vibrant food and nightlife scene. Sample delicious Armenian cuisine at local restaurants, where dishes like khorovats (barbecue), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lavash (traditional bread) are sure to delight your taste buds. In the evenings, head to the trendy bars and clubs in the city center to experience Yerevan’s lively nightlife.

With its historic landmarks, lively atmosphere, and friendly locals, Yerevan is a city that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. Its unique charm and energy make it a must-visit destination in Armenia.

Tatev Monastery

Perched on a rugged hilltop in the southern part of Armenia, Tatev Monastery is a sight to behold. Dating back to the 9th century, this medieval Armenian Apostolic monastery is not only a spiritual retreat but also an architectural marvel.

Accessible via the Vorotan Gorge, visitors can experience a thrilling ride on the Wings of Tatev, the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world. As you glide over the picturesque gorge, you will marvel at the stunning landscapes below, including the meandering Vorotan River and the rugged cliffs.

Once you arrive at the Tatev Monastery, you will be greeted by a complex of ancient buildings, including the Church of St. Poghos-Petros, the Church of St. Astvatsatsin, and the Church of St. Gregory. The intricate stone carvings and exquisite religious artwork inside the monastery are a testament to the craftsmanship of the Armenian artisans of that time.

Aside from its architectural beauty, Tatev Monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From the observation deck, you can see the majestic mountains, deep gorges, and picturesque villages that dot the landscape.

Make sure to take a stroll through the monastery’s beautifully landscaped gardens, where you can find peaceful corners for reflection and meditation. You may also encounter monks going about their daily routines, lending an air of tranquility and spirituality to the atmosphere.

For the adventurous souls, the surrounding area offers hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and natural wonders. The Devil’s Bridge, a breathtaking rock formation spanning a narrow gorge, is a popular hiking destination nearby.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a serene and spiritual experience, a visit to Tatev Monastery is a must. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning scenery that this ancient sanctuary offers, and you will leave with a deep appreciation for the cultural heritage of Armenia.

Nestled in the heart of the Armenian Highlands, Lake Sevan is a true natural wonder that is not to be missed. Known as the “Blue Pearl of Armenia,” this vast and serene body of water is the largest lake in the country and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world.

The pristine blue waters of Lake Sevan are surrounded by breathtaking mountainous landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. As you soak in the tranquility of the surroundings, you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating.

One of the highlights of Lake Sevan is the Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a peninsula on the northwestern shores of the lake. Dating back to the 9th century, this monastery offers not only religious significance but also stunning panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding mountains.

Another must-visit attraction near Lake Sevan is the Hayravank Monastery, located on the eastern shores of the lake. Dating back to the 9th century, this monastery is known for its unique architectural style and beautiful stone carvings.

The lake is also home to several sandy beaches where visitors can relax and sunbathe during the summer months. The warm and inviting waters of Lake Sevan are perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day.

For those interested in exploring the rich biodiversity of the area, the Lake Sevan National Park is a must-visit. This protected area is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare birds such as the Armenian gull and the white-headed duck.

After a day of exploring, be sure to indulge in the local cuisine, which is famous for its fresh fish from Lake Sevan. Try the traditional dish of “Ishkhan” (trout), grilled to perfection and served with local herbs and spices.

Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a connection with nature, Lake Sevan offers something for everyone. Its beauty and tranquility will leave you mesmerized, and the memories of your time spent here will stay with you long after you leave.

Geghard Monastery

Located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds both historical and architectural significance. The monastery, partially carved out of a mountain, is a true testament to the ingenuity and skill of medieval Armenian architects.

The name “Geghard” translates to “spear” in Armenian, and it is believed to refer to the lance that pierced the side of Jesus Christ during his crucifixion, which was allegedly brought to Armenia and stored within the monastery. Today, the spear is housed in the Treasury of Etchmiadzin, but the name Geghard Monastery has remained.

As you approach the monastery, you will be greeted by towering cliffs and a stone facade that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The intricate carvings on the walls and the unique architectural elements showcase the artistic skills of the craftsmen who built this magnificent structure.

One of the highlights of Geghard Monastery is the main chapel, built in the 13th century. Step inside and you will be greeted by stunning frescoes and religious artwork, transporting you back in time to the days when the monastery was a thriving spiritual retreat.

Another notable feature of Geghard Monastery is its acoustic qualities. The natural acoustics inside the cave-like chambers create a captivating and ethereal atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might even witness a live performance of traditional Armenian music, taking full advantage of the space’s exceptional acoustics.

Surrounded by awe-inspiring nature, Geghard Monastery is also a gateway to the beautiful Azat Valley. From the monastery grounds, you can take a short hike through the valley, which is renowned for its towering cliffs, picturesque landscapes, and the rushing waters of the Azat River.

Visiting Geghard Monastery is not just a glimpse into Armenia’s past; it is a spiritual and immersive experience that will leave you in awe of the country’s cultural heritage. The combination of natural beauty, architectural marvel, and a sense of serenity makes Geghard Monastery an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

Nestled in the heart of the lush Dilijan National Park, the town of Dilijan is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Armenia” due to its picturesque landscapes and mild climate. Known for its stunning natural beauty and well-preserved traditional architecture, Dilijan is a charming destination that should not be missed.

As you walk through the streets of Dilijan, you’ll be enchanted by the beautifully restored 19th-century houses made of local stone and adorned with wooden balconies. The town’s old quarter, known as Sharambeyan Street, is a pedestrian-only area lined with cafes, galleries, and workshops where local artisans showcase their craftsmanship.

Dilijan is also home to several historic monasteries, including the Haghartsin Monastery. Nestled in a dense forest, this architectural marvel dates back to the 10th century and features intricate stone carvings and beautifully preserved frescoes. As you explore the monastery complex, you’ll be transported back in time to the golden age of Armenian architecture.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Dilijan National Park offers an abundance of hiking trails that meander through its breathtaking landscapes. From easy walks to challenging hikes, there is something for every level of adventurer. Be sure to visit the picturesque Parz Lake, surrounded by dense forests and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Dilijan is also known for its therapeutic mineral waters. The town is home to several spa resorts and wellness centers where you can indulge in treatments that will revitalize both your body and mind.

No visit to Dilijan would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The town is known for its delicious honey, organic fruits, and traditional Armenian dishes. Be sure to try the mouthwatering “tolma” (stuffed grape leaves) and “gata” (Armenian sweet bread) that are specialties of the region.

With its serene natural beauty, well-preserved architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere, Dilijan offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions that define this hidden gem in Armenia.

Noravank Monastery

Tucked away in a narrow gorge of Armenia’s Vayots Dzor Province, the Noravank Monastery is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece that showcases the ingenuity of medieval Armenian craftsmanship. Dating back to the 13th century, this secluded sanctuary is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed.

As you approach Noravank Monastery, you will be awe-struck by its reddish cliffs, which form a dramatic backdrop to the stunning medieval structures. The intricate stonework, ornate religious reliefs, and delicate carvings showcase the skill and artistry of the Armenian architects who built the monastery.

The main church of the complex, known as Surp Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), stands tall among the rugged cliffs. Its majestic facade and ornate details make it a sight to behold. Step inside the church, and you will be greeted by beautifully preserved frescoes from the 14th century, depicting scenes from the Bible.

One of the unique features of Noravank Monastery is its two-story vestibule, supported by elegant religious sculptures. This architectural element adds to the grandeur and artistic beauty of the complex.

As you explore the monastery, don’t miss the opportunity to climb the steep stone staircase to the upper tiers. From there, you can admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the stunning Amaghu Gorge and the picturesque Arpa River.

To add to the magical ambiance, the monastery is often bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, saturating the red cliffs with an ethereal light. This golden hour is the perfect time to capture stunning photographs and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of rolling hills and vineyards, the Noravank Monastery offers a peaceful and tranquil setting. The serenity of the site, combined with its architectural splendor, makes it a haven for spiritual reflection and a captivating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Visiting Noravank Monastery is like stepping back in time and immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Armenia. Get ready to be mesmerized by the beauty and artistry that radiate from every corner of this remarkable architectural treasure.

Mount Aragats

Rising majestically in the heart of Armenia, Mount Aragats stands as the highest peak in the country and offers a thrilling adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, this dormant volcano is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and exhilarating experience.

Mount Aragats is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural and historical landmark. It has played a significant role in Armenian mythology and is often associated with the ancient god Ara the Beautiful. The mountain has also been the site of numerous medieval monasteries, emphasizing its spiritual importance in Armenian heritage.

The mountain offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors. Hiking to the summit is a popular choice for experienced climbers, with four peaks to conquer. The highest peak, named Northern Summit, reaches an impressive elevation of 4,090 meters (13,419 feet). The rewarding panoramic views from the summit are simply breathtaking.

For those who prefer a less challenging adventure, Mount Aragats also offers picturesque hiking trails that lead to alpine lakes, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and charming villages. The landscapes vary from lush forests to rocky slopes, providing a diverse and captivating experience.

If you visit in the warmer months, Mount Aragats presents an opportunity for camping and picnicking amidst the stunning nature. The cool mountain air and serene surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation.

For an even more unique experience, consider visiting Mount Aragats during the winter. The mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, offering excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The pristine white slopes and the breathtaking views covered in snow make for a magical winter escape.

As you venture up the slopes of Mount Aragats, you will also have a chance to encounter the diverse wildlife that calls this mountain home. Keep an eye out for rare bird species, such as the Armenian gull and the Bearded Vulture, as well as various endemic plants and flowers.

Mount Aragats is a true gem of Armenia, offering adventure, natural beauty, and a sense of awe-inspiring grandeur. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or simply seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning landscapes, a visit to Mount Aragats will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Vayots Dzor Province, the town of Jermuk is a tranquil oasis famous for its healing mineral waters and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the “Armenian Switzerland,” Jermuk offers a rejuvenating escape from the bustling city life and a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and wellness.

Jermuk is renowned for its mineral waters, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. The town is home to numerous natural springs, each offering a unique composition of minerals that are said to promote overall well-being and health. Visitors can indulge in the healing waters by visiting one of the many spa resorts and wellness centers scattered throughout Jermuk.

Aside from its wellness offerings, Jermuk boasts mesmerizing natural landscapes. The town is surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The iconic Jermuk Waterfall, also known as the “Mermaid’s Hair,” is a must-visit attraction. The sight and sound of the water plunging into the gorge create a serene and picturesque backdrop.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Jermuk offers numerous hiking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints and hidden gems in the surrounding nature. One popular trail leads to the stunning Gndevank Monastery, an architectural marvel nestled in a serene valley. The hike takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers a glimpse into the religious heritage of the region.

Another highlight of Jermuk is the Jermuk Lake, a serene body of water located just outside the town. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, the lake is a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.

As you explore the town, be sure to sample the local cuisine. Jermuk is known for its high-quality honey, mineral water-based beverages, and traditional Armenian dishes. Treat yourself to deliciously prepared trout or other local delicacies while embracing the warm hospitality of the locals.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, wellness, or an adventure in nature, Jermuk provides an idyllic retreat. The combination of healing mineral waters, stunning landscapes, and a serene atmosphere makes Jermuk a destination that will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and enchanted.

Garni Temple

Perched proudly on a hilltop in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, the Garni Temple stands as a remarkable testament to the country’s ancient pagan past. Dating back to the 1st century AD, this well-preserved Hellenistic-style temple is a unique and fascinating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

As you approach Garni Temple, you will be awe-struck by its grandiosity and the stunning backdrop of the surrounding cliffs and the Azat River gorge. The temple’s architectural beauty lies in its symmetry and elegant proportions, blending Greek and Roman influences with local Armenian craftsmanship.

Step inside the temple’s sanctuary, and you will be transported back in time. Admire the intricate stone carvings, including depictions of ancient gods, mythological creatures, and geometric patterns. With its towering columns and detailed relief work, the temple exudes an aura of ancient mystery and grandeur.

From the temple grounds, take a moment to soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the picturesque Azat Valley and the dramatic cliffs. The natural beauty of the area adds to the allure of the temple, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

While the Garni Temple is the main attraction, the nearby Garni Gorge offers further opportunities for exploration. A short hike will lead you to the Symphony of Stones, a unique geological formation consisting of towering basalt columns resembling a natural amphitheater. Be sure to also visit the Garni Historical and Cultural Museum, which provides insight into the rich history and archaeological discoveries of the region.

One of the highlights of a visit to Garni Temple is the opportunity to witness traditional Armenian cultural performances. The temple’s open-air stage hosts concerts featuring traditional dances, music, and songs, providing a window into the vibrant cultural heritage of the country.

Visiting the Garni Temple is not only a chance to explore ancient history but also an opportunity to appreciate the resilience of Armenian culture. Despite its turbulent past, the temple stands proudly, preserving the traditions and stories of a bygone era.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a unique and captivating experience, a visit to Garni Temple will leave you in awe of Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and its magnificent ancient treasures.

Zorats Karer (Armenian Stonehenge)

Deep in the vast plains of Syunik Province, Armenia is a fascinating archaeological site known as Zorats Karer, which is often referred to as the “Armenian Stonehenge.” This ancient megalithic complex dates back to the Bronze Age and is shrouded in mystery, captivating the imagination of visitors from around the world.

As you step into Zorats Karer, you’ll be greeted by an array of massive standing stones, arranged in intricate patterns and alignments. These stones, some reaching up to 3 meters in height, are believed to have been erected over 7,000 years ago, although their purpose and significance continue to be the subject of speculation and debate.

The arrangement of the stones suggests that Zorats Karer may have served as an astronomical observatory or a sacred site for ancient rituals and ceremonies. The alignment of the stones with celestial bodies, such as the sun and the stars, indicates a deep understanding of astronomy by the ancient inhabitants of the area.

While exploring the site, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the unique carvings and engravings that adorn some of the stones. These enigmatic petroglyphs depict various symbols, including crosses, animals, and abstract patterns, providing clues to the beliefs and practices of the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region.

The remote location of Zorats Karer adds to its mystique, immersing visitors in a sense of awe and wonder. With the vast Armenian countryside as a backdrop, the site offers a serene and meditative experience, allowing you to step back in time and connect with the ancient past.

Visiting Zorats Karer is not only an opportunity to witness an ancient archaeological marvel but also a chance to ponder the significance of human history and our relationship with the cosmos. The site serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and intellectual curiosity of our ancestors, leaving us with a sense of wonder and reverence for the mysteries of the universe.

As you explore this mesmerizing site, take a moment to marvel at the precision and craftsmanship of the ancient builders who created this intricate monument. Zorats Karer is an extraordinary testament to human ambition and the enduring legacy of a long-lost civilization.

Whether you are an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff, or simply fascinated by ancient mysteries, a visit to Zorats Karer will undoubtedly leave you intrigued and inspired, deepening your appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Armenia.

Armenia, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the bustling streets of Yerevan to the ancient monasteries perched on rugged cliffs, each destination in Armenia offers its own unique charm and beauty.

Whether you are exploring the ancient ruins of Garni Temple, embarking on an adventurous hike up Mount Aragats, or immersing yourself in the healing waters of Jermuk, you will be captivated by the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural wonders.

The journey through Armenia also takes you to hidden gems such as Tatev Monastery, Noravank Monastery, and Zorats Karer, offering glimpses into the past and a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship of the ancient Armenians.

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Armenia warmly welcomes visitors with its renowned hospitality and delicious cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in traditional Armenian dishes, savor local wines, and embrace the warmth of Armenian hospitality.

Armenia truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience to travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this land of ancient traditions and stunning landscapes has something to offer everyone.

So, pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and let Armenia enchant you with its beauty and allure. Explore the rich tapestry of history, bask in the natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that awaits you in this remarkable country.

Armenia is a destination that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime, and a longing to return to its captivating landscapes and warm embrace.

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12 best places to visit in Armenia

19/12/2021 by Roobens Leave a Comment

Planning to visit Armenia? It’s an excellent idea! It’s not the most popular destination, but Armenia is a wonderful country! Culture and history lovers will love it, Armenia is 3500 years old! It’s the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion. Due to its location, everyone passed through the region: Romans, Byzantines, Persians, Soviets… What to do in Armenia? Here’s a list of Armenia tourist places, then I’ll share Armenia travel tips!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Armenia

Yerevan is the capital of Armenia and it’s the largest city of the country (1/3 of the Armenian population lives there). There’s an big cafe culture, numerous restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. You cannot miss Republic Square where you’ll see the history museum of Armenia and a beautiful fountain. You have to see the statue Mother Armenia, the cascade complex and of course the Armenian Genocide Memorial. I wrote a detailed article about my visit to Yerevan . Click here to find your accommodation.

It’s one of the most famous Armenia tourist attractions! Lake Sevan is in the heart of Armenia and it’s the largest lake of the country. It’s popular among the locals and tourists because you can enjoy numerous activities offered there (watersports…). There are also many monasteries and churches around the lake such as Sevanavank monastery. Some quiet villages surround the lake, but there are also more lively places with bars and clubs. Don’t miss Noratus cemetery and try isxhan (trout) from the lake, it’s delicious! Click here to find your accommodation.

Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park only opened in 2002 but it’s already one of the most popular Armenia tourist spot. You’ll find there wonderful lakes and monasteries dating back to the 10th century such as Matosavank and Hagharstin. It’s an ideal park if you like hiking. People mostly go there to enjoy its lush forests. Dilijan was a peaceful retreat for creative types (musicians, writers etc.). Click here to find your accommodation.

It’s probably the most famous monastery in Armenia. It’s among Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage sites, and Armenians get married there. It was where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years. After being released, he convinced King Tiridates III of Armenia to convert to Christianity. This is how Armenia became the first Christian nation. You also have a wonderful view of Mount Ararat from the monastery.

There are many monasteries in Armenia, another popular one is Noravank, built in the 13th century. People say the monastery was saved by God himself when Armenia was conquered by the Mongols. Surrounded by high cliffs of beautiful orange and red colors, it’s very popular thanks to the carvings and motifs on the facades.

Garni is not far from Yerevan, and it’s definitely one of the places to see in Armenia. People go there to admire its temple dating back to the 1st century and its monastery. Some people say the temple was the sumer house of the royal families, others think it’s a tomb. Don’t miss it, and also Geghard monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Click here to find your accommodation.

It’s the second largest city of Armenia. It was devastated during the 1988 earthquake, and you can still see today how badly it was destroyed then. Head to the black fortress to enjoy a nice view of Gyumri. There are also many museums there, a brewery and also a Mother Armenia statue! Click here to find your accommodation.

It’s the cultural capital of Armenia. Its real name is Vagharshapat but no one uses it. People go there to see its breathtaking cathedral. Saint Gregory the Illuminator built it from 301 to 303. It’s one of the oldest churches in the world! There are other churches in the city, all of them being UNESCO World Heritage sites. Click here to find your accommodation.

Tatev monastery

Located in the south of the country, close to the border with Iran, Tatev monastery was built in the 9th century. It’s not easy to get there but the stunning views make the long trek worthwhile. Surrounded by mountainous landscapes, you’ll see there three churches, a library, a refectory, a bell tower and a mausoleum.

Jermuk is a wellness town! You’ll find there numerous spas and wellness centers! They say its mineral water has healing properties. Don’t miss the Jermuk waterfall, the second highest of Armenia. Click here to book your accommodation.

This is where you’ll find the best wine of the country. The Armenian wine is mostly produced in Areni. You can taste the local wine at different vineyards and buy some bottles. For your information, Areni is also home to the earliest known leather shoe, one of the oldest surviving brains, and a 6,000-year-old straw skirt! Click here to find your accommodation.

Vanadzor is the third largest city of Armenia. It’s in the north of the country. You have to see the botanical garden of Vanadzor, and take some time to visit the museum of fine arts. Have a walk in the charming city center. Vanadzor is a good starting point to visit the Lori region and its monasteries. Click here to find your accommodation.

Amberd fortress

Amberd fortress dates back to the 7th century. Its name means “fortress in the clouds” cause it’s 2,300 meters (7,500ft.) above sea level! Consequently sometimes the fortress is not accessible in winter because of the snow. The fortress is impressive, and the view from the top of it is stunning!

Karahunj observatory

Sometimes we call it the Stonehenge of Armenia! It’s made up of over 200 massive stone tombs, plus 40 stones standing in a circular formation. Each stone has holes 5cm (2inch.) in diameter. Like Stonehenge, this construction remains a mystery for scientists. Most people say it served as an observatory for star-watching.

These were the best places to visit in Armenia! Now here are a few Armenia travel tips!

Armenia travel budget

• Accommodation is not expensive in Armenia. One night in a hostel dorm costs around 4,000 AMD ($8). One night in a mid-range hotel costs about 10,000 AMD ($20). If you prefer luxury hotels, you’ll pay around 50,000 AMD ($100) per night. Click here to find your accommodation.
• Food is not expensive either. A local dish cost around 3,000 AMD ($6). One beer costs about 1,000 AMD ($2). A meal in a high-end restaurant costs around 5,000 AMD ($10).
• Regarding transportation, a metro or bus ride costs 100 AMD ($0.20). For the taxis, prices start at 600 AMD ($1.25) plus 100 AMD ($.20) per kilometer. There’s Uber too. Intercity buses and marshrutka rides are not expensive, around 1,000 AMD ($2). Train rides costs between 1,000 and 6,000 AMD ($2-12), depending on where you’re going. There are domestic flights between Yerevan and Gyumri. A one-way flight costs around 60,000 AMD ($120). You can also rent a car for 25,000 AMD ($50) per day. Finally, hitchhiking is very common in Armenia.
• Regarding activities, nothing is expensive. You’ll rarely pay more than 1,000 AMD ($2) to visit a monastery.

Basically, if you’re traveling on a budget,  you can get by with $40 per day. Otherwise you’ll spend about $70 per day.

How to get around in Armenia

In Yerevan only, there’s the subway (one line with 10 stations), and Uber. There are also buses and marshrutkas (vans). To get around in the country, there’s also the train, the marshrutkas, domestic flights and hitchhiking. Be careful though, there are very few signs in English. Don’t hesitate to ask a local for help.

Best time to visit Armenia

June, September and October are the best months to visit Armenia. The weather is nice (around 20°C/68°F) and it’s possible to enjoy outdoor activities. In May it rains a lot. In July and August it’s scorching outside (around 35°C/95°F). In winter it’s really cold (below 0°C/32°F), only get there if you want to ski. On the first week of January, almost everything is closed! If you go to Armenia 14 weeks after Easter (around July), you’ll enjoy Vardavar festival .

Visa policy of Armenia

If you’re an European citizen or coming from a Western country, you don’t need a visa to get to Armenia. You can find all the details here .

Safety in Armenia

Armenia is a very safe country. Since it’s not a touristy country, there are almost no scams targeting tourists. You might face being overcharged by taxi drivers but that’s it. Also avoid the Nagorno-Karabakh region which is in conflict with Azerbaijan and everything will be fine. Solo female travelers felt very safe in Armenia.

Sometimes the locals will stare at you, but it’s just because they’re not use to see tourists. If you drive be careful because the driving can be crazy there. Don’t forget to get travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft and cancellations. Click here to get one.

Packing list for Armenia

I’m not gonna list all the things to pack for Armenia. I don’t know how long you’re gonna stay there, where you’re going in Armenia, what you’re going to do and when you’ll visit. Take all the necessary clothes, toiletries, and also:

• hand sanitizer
• combination locks
• a money belt
• a security cable lock
• a travel plug adapter
• a stainless steel water bottle
• a lifestraw (a water bottle with a purifier)
• a menstrual cup (for the ladies)

Here’s a full list of travel accessories , which can be useful!

What to eat in Armenia

There are many dishes you have to try in Armenia!  Lavash is a thin flatbread which is complimentary with almost every dish. Dolma is a dish of minced meat, rice, herbs and spices wrapped in grape leaves. Lahmajun is an Armenian thin crust pizza with beef. Ghapama is an entree comprising of rice cooked in a pumpkin-vegetarian. Tan is a yoghurt drink like the Indian lassi. Finally, the Armenian brandy is renowned all over the world (Churchill and Stalin loved it).

That’s it! You have all the information needed to travel to Armenia smoothly!

• Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page!
• Want a tailor-made trip to Armenia? Get a free quote here !
• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling .

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Wander-Lush

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary for 3-10 Days of Travel

Looking for an easy Armenia itinerary that can be done with public transport? This guide pulls together the best things to do in Armenia for first-time visitors, with recommended routes for 3-10 days of travel. Detailed transportation info, travel tips and up-to-date advice included.

The nation of Armenia in the Caucasus region is the perfect alchemy of flawless scenery, captivating cities, magnificent monasteries , and enchanting small towns.

Off the beaten path but still easy enough for travellers to navigate, Armenia easily offers one of the most rewarding travel experiences you can find in Europe these days.

Whether you’re looking for an easy add-on to the end of your Georgia itinerary or something more substantial to insert into a broader Caucasus travel itinerary , this Armenia itinerary showcases the best of the country’s north.

Building on my own experiences travelling in Armenia, I’ve included three recommended routes for 3, 7 or 10 days of travel. Each itinerary includes comprehensive and up-to-date transport information, accommodation advice, and ideas for things to do.

If you have any follow up questions about this itinerary or you need some advice about your own trip, feel free to leave me a note in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help out.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Planning your Armenia itinerary

To help you plan your Armenia visit I want to start with some itinerary planning basics. If you’re all over the logistics, you can skip straight to the first itinerary using this link .

When is the best time to visit Armenia?

Late spring (April/May) and early fall (September/October) are, in my opinion, the nicest times of year to visit Armenia. I recommend avoiding peak summer season (especially July/August) as the cities get very hot and crowded. Temperatures in Yerevan regularly exceed 35 degrees Celsius in the middle of summer.

I first visited Armenia in spring and still think this is probably the most pleasant season. Outdoor cafes start opening up and you’ll see beautiful flower markets overflowing on every sidewalk in Yerevan. Celebrating Easter in the world’s first Christian nation is a special experience, as is marking Genocide Remembrance Day on April 24.

The itineraries presented here are trans-seasonal and can be done at any time of year.

Do you need a visa for Armenia?

Armenia has a generous visa policy that allows passport holders from 35+ countries (including the US, the European Union and Australia) to visit visa-free for up to 180 days within a year .

If you’re not on the visa-free list, you may be eligible to apply for a visa on arrival (available at both air and land borders) or an e-visa. Some nationalities are required to apply for a visa in advance.

Check if you need a tourist visa to travel to Armenia and apply for an expedited visa if you do via my partners at iVisa .

How many days do you need in Armenia?

I think 3 days is the absolute minimum amount of time you should spend in Armenia. Broadly speaking, you can see the highlights of northern Armenia in about a week, and with 10 days or more you can get a good overview of the country.

This itinerary focuses on northern Armenia and can therefore be added onto the start or end of your Georgia itinerary quite easily. All of Armenia’s major cities are in the north, as is its biggest lake, the wine region, and a good number of its must-see monasteries.

At the end of this guide I’ve included recommendations for more places to visit in southern Armenia.

Where to start your Armenia itinerary

Armenia has two major transport hubs: Yerevan (flights from Georgia , Europe and the Middle East plus overnight trains from Tbilisi ) and Gyumri (flights from Europe). I recommend starting your travels in the capital, Yerevan.

The itineraries outlined here all start in Yerevan and finish in Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, located in the north-west corner of the country. From here, you have the option to fly out of Gyumri airport, loop back to Yerevan by bus, or continue overland into southern Georgia via Akhaltsikhe .

Note that Armenia’s borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey are closed and overland travel between these countries is not permitted. If you’re coming from Azerbaijan, you will need to cross through Georgia first. I recommend using the night train to get from Baku to Tbilisi .

How to get around Armenia

Armenia is compact with relatively good transport connections. This makes getting around quite quick and easy, even if you’re relying on public transport alone.

Armenia has a railway network, but marshrutka vans (fixed route minivans) are the most popular way to get from place to place. Marshrutka vans are affordable and fast, but schedules are flexible as drivers only tend to depart when their van is sufficiently full (rather than sticking to a set timetable). Shared taxis are a good alternative to marshrutky if you’re willing to pay a bit more. Drivers can usually be found at the bus station.

Minivans are centrally administered under Armenia’s National Transport Authority. Note that Yerevan has several bus stations spread around the city so you’ll need to double-check where your van departs. Use the T-Armenia website to check marshrutka (and train) schedules and fares , then cross-check times locally where possible.

Most drivers take their lunch break from 11am-2pm so there are often no vans running during the middle part of the day. Road safety is something you should be wary of in Armenia so I strongly suggest you only travel by road during daylight hours . 

Organised day trips are very affordable in Armenia and are a good way to make the most of your time, especially if you’re basing yourself in Yerevan. I recommend booking day trips through Get Your Guide or Viator . Vendors on both platforms are vetted and more likely to observe good road safety practices.

It’s possible to hire a car in Armenia and self-drive, but be aware that the driving style takes some getting used to and road conditions vary dramatically throughout the country. If you’re thinking of hiring a car, I recommend using Local Rent to search for a local rental. Prices start from $26 per day.

The itineraries described here use marshrutka vans exclusively, with a couple of organised day trips and one taxi transfer.

Armenia travel itinerary options

Here is a brief outline of the three itinerary options included in this guide.

Under each full itinerary you’ll find a day-by-day breakdown including things to do, where to stay, and detailed transportation instructions for getting from place to place.

3 day Armenia itinerary [Click here to jump to the full itinerary.] Days 1-2: Yerevan Day 3: Day trip of your choosing

5-7 day Armenia itinerary [Click here to jump to the full itinerary.] Days 1-2: Yerevan Day 3: Day trip of your choosing Days 4-5: Vanadzor & Debed Canyon Days 6-7: Gyumri

10 day Armenia itinerary [Click here to jump to the full itinerary.] Days 1-2: Yerevan Day 3: Day trip of your choosing Day 4: Day trip to Tatev Monastery Days 5-6: Dilijan & Lake Sevan Days 7-8: Vanadzor & Debed Canyon Days 9-10: Gyumri

Click here to open an interactive map of my Armenia itinerary in a new tab. Each of the three options is included as a separate layer.

3 days in Armenia: Perfect Yerevan itinerary

If you only have a few days to spend in Armenia, I recommend you focus your attention on the capital city, Yerevan . There are plenty of day trips on offer, making it easy to explore the countryside and other towns and cities while using Yerevan as a base.

Nicknamed ‘the Pink City’ for the rose-coloured tuff stone facades of its oldest buildings, Yerevan has all the elegance and charm of any European capital. Because of its location, quite literally at the crossroads of East and West, multiculturalism is baked into the city’s character.

Yerevan is home to Armenia’s most important cultural and historical institutions, including the Genocide Memorial Complex. A city of parks and fountains, Yerevan is brimming with outdoor cafes and wine bars, an amazing array of restaurants that showcase national and international cuisines, colourful markets, and historic churches .

Where to stay in Yerevan

• Budget hostel: Highland Hostel (⭐ 9.8), a crowd favourite 10 minutes’ walk from Republic Square.
• Mid-range hotel: Republica Hotel (⭐ 9.2), decorated with traditional carpets and with views of Ararat.
• Boutique hotel: Villa Delenda (⭐ 8.8), set in a 100-year-old property with heritage furnishings.
• Luxury hotel: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel (⭐ 9.1), 19th-century-style hotel with modern suites and an onsite restaurant and carpet museum.

Find more Yerevan accommodations here on Booking.com.

Day 1: Best of Yerevan

Tip: If you’re arriving at Yerevan Airport, take the shuttle bus to the city (300 AMD) or pre-book a private transfer to your hotel online here (from $14 per group). Once you’re in the city, I recommend picking up a local sim card so that you can use Google Maps to navigate and most importantly download an app to book taxis. My preferred mobile provider in Armenia is Team Telecom , and the taxi app I use most frequently is GG Taxi .

Spend your first morning in Armenia getting acquainted with Yerevan’s blossoming specialty coffee culture. Start your day with coffee and a croissant at Lumen Coffee 1936 (open from 8.30am daily), a beautiful old-worldly cafe close to the Cascade. The fit out includes many original furnishings, including ornately painted ceilings and old wooden cabinets.

After fueling up, it’s time for my number one favourite Yerevan must-do, climbing the Cascade Complex . This monumental stone ‘staircase’ is embedded in a hillside at the northern end of town and houses the Cafesjian Centre for the Arts inside. At the bottom of the stairs you’ll find a sculpture garden with works by Medellin -born sculptor Fernando Botero.

Take the exterior stairs or head inside to ride the escalators all the way up. The view from the top of the Cascade is breathtaking – not only can you see all of downtown Yerevan stretched out before you, but you also get a glimpse of snow-crested Mount Ararat , Armenia’s spiritual emblem, looming in the distance.

The Cascade links lower Yerevan with the upper museum district. At the top, you’ll find several of the city’s most important institutions, including the Matenadaran (open from 10am Tues-Sat; 1500 AMD). Officially the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, this building is home to the world’s largest collection of Armenian-language manuscripts.

Admire the monumental building from outside, then take a walk through the halls of the institute to admire the various illuminated pages and beautiful examples of the Armenian alphabet.

If your legs can carry you, continue climbing up to Victory Park and the Mother Armenia monument , exploring the abandoned Aragil Restaurant along the way.

Walk through the heart of Yerevan via the Opera Theatre and Freedom Square to Abovyan Street. Along the way, you’ll pass by several important landmarks – including the Holy Mother of God Kathoghike Church (the oldest in Yerevan) and the Soviet-era Moscow Cinema .

There are a number of excellent eateries in this part of town; I recommend having lunch at Dolmama on Pushkin Street (open from 11am; reservations recommended), a Yerevan institution that specialises in traditional Armenian cuisine. The signature dish here is the dolma , stuffed vine leaves served with yogurt.

After lunch, browse some of the gift boutiques around Dolmama, including Ardean (silk scarves and prints), Dalan (ceramics and knickknacks), and Salt Sack (carpet clippings, artworks and a huge range of authentic souvenirs ). Pop into Art Kvartal , a new creative complex on Pushkin Street with contemporary art galleries and design shops.

Continue on foot a few more blocks to reach Republic Square . This tulip-lined plaza with a magnificent water fountain in the centre and stately stone buildings around the perimeter is the nucleus of Yerevan. In the afternoon you’ll find the square crowded with families and groups of friends bathing in the sun and eating ice cream cones.

Spend the rest of the afternoon browsing the Vernissage (open until 6pm daily), Yerevan’s massive outdoor handicraft and artist’s market. Don’t miss ‘carpet row’ where vendors display their collections of Caucasian rugs.

Sherep Restaurant (open daily; reservations recommended) is a good option for dinner not far from the Vernissage on the opposite side of Republic Square. Finish your first night in Yerevan with a drink at Mirzoyan Library (open daily until midnight), a cool bar/creative hangout located inside a heritage courtyard on Mkrtchyan Street.

Day 2: Alternative Yerevan

Grab breakfast at your accommodation or try out another of Yerevan’s cafes. I love The Green Bean (open from 8.30am daily) for good coffee and light meals.

Find the nearest underground station and exchange a 100 AMD coin for a token, then take a spin on the wonderfully retro Yerevan metro . From Republic Square, it’s just one stop to Zoravar Andranik. Admire the massive Soviet-era apartment blocks around the station before continuing to your first destination for the day, the GUM Market .

The GUM Market (from 11am daily) is one of Yerevan’s main produce hubs. Here, you can see giant sheets of lavash , Armenia’s national bread , being prepared and sold alongside vibrant displays of dried and candied fruits, pickles and fresh produce. Set aside at least an hour to wander the aisles, sampling a few fruit and nut delicacies as you go.

After browsing the market, take a taxi to the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex , located on a hill on the city’s western side. Walk through the sombre outdoor memorial to the victims before visiting the adjacent Armenian Genocide Museum (Tues-Sun from 11am; free entry but donations welcome).

If you don’t know a lot about the events of April 1915, this museum will leave you reeling. It’s a difficult visit at times but an essential part of your Yerevan itinerary in my mind – especially if you want to better understand the events that have shaped Armenia into the nation it is today. Displays are beautifully curated with lots of information in English. You need up to 2 hours to see and read everything.

Take a taxi back into town for lunch. I recommend either Anoush (from 7am daily; try the apricot beer and the baklava) or Tavern Yerevan (from 9.30am daily; budget friendly Armenian fare), both off Amiryan Street.

From there, it’s a 2-minute walk down Mashtots Avenue to the Blue Mosque (open daily but closed from 1-3pm; free entry). The only functioning mosque in Armenia, this is a beautiful complex of mosaic facades and manicured gardens. It’s an oasis in the city and the perfect place for a post-lunch wander. Don’t miss seeing the facade of the old market opposite the mosque entrance.

Pay a visit to the quirky Sergei Parajanov Museum (from 10.30am daily; 1000 AMD) to learn about one of the 20th century’s most underrated avant-garde filmmakers. Armenia has lots of house museums (small institutions dedicated to famous artists and political figures), and this is my favourite of them all.

The museum is a vibrant hodgepodge of Parajanov’s collages, artworks and personal possessions. It’s a window onto his eclectic personality and career – even if you know nothing about his films, it’s still a very enjoyable visit. The museum is located on Dzoragyugh 1st Street, a 15-minute walk from the mosque.

After the museum, it’s time to get lost in Kond, Yerevan’s oldest neighbourhood . Located on a hill, this area is a maze of winding streets and tumbledown facades. Wander through the Kond Pedestrian Tunnel that runs beneath the streets to find Hrazdan Gorge , an unexpected green space. Here you’ll find several cool Soviet-style sculptures, an amusement park and the Children’s Railway .

One of my favourite places for dinner in Yerevan is Twelve Tables (open Mon-Sat), a petite restaurant serving local wines and healthy, fresh meals. The pomegranate salad is divine.

End your evening with an Armenian wine degustation at In Vino (open until midnight daily), Yerevan’s leading wine bar. Formal tastings feature 4-6 local wines paired with Armenian snacks. Reservations are recommended for a tasting – or you can just opt for wine by the glass from the restaurant’s ‘library’ of 25-plus local labels.

Recommended reading for Yerevan: – 30 excellent things to do in Yerevan – Where to go shopping in Yerevan for Armenian souvenirs – Full guide to visiting the GUM Market

Day 3: Day trip from Yerevan

After two full days in Yerevan it’s time to head out of the city. A good number of Armenia’s most important monasteries and some seriously impressive landscapes can be visited within a day from the capital, so you’re really spoiled for choice when it comes to day trips.

It’s possible to do some day trips independently using public transport, but to get the most out of it, I highly recommend joining a tour. My favourite company in Yerevan for organised day trips is Hyur Service . I’ve used them several times and have always found guides professional and drivers safe. They have guaranteed daily departures (tours vary depending on the day of the week and the season) and there’s no supplementary charge for solo travellers.

I love that the itineraries pair multiple stops so you really get a bang for your buck (prices are very affordable, too). Just be prepared for a long day – and bring some snacks with you.

Here are my top recommendations for a Yerevan day trip.

For culture seekers: Day trip to Geghard & Garni

The 1st-century Garni Temple and medieval UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery are within a 15-minute drive of each other. This is my top choice for an easy day trip – both landmarks are wonderful to see in person, and it only requires around 2 hours of driving in total.

This full-day itinerary with Hyur Service combines Garni and Geghard with a visit to Lake Sevan and a lavash-baking workshop. I did this trip last time I visited Armenia and I really enjoyed it – the photo of lavash at the top of the post was taken on this tour.

→ Book online via Viator.

For history buffs: Day trip to Echmiadzin & Zvartnots

Echmiadzin (also known as Vagharshapat) is home to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. On the way from Yerevan, you can stop off at the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral, the much-photographed ring of columns that frames views of Mount Ararat. Total driving time is around 90 minutes.

→ Book this tour with Hyur Service online via Viator.

For adventurers: Day trip to Tatev Monastery & Noravank

Tatev is one of Armenia’s most spectacular monasteries, not least of all because you sail in by cable car. It’s located in the country’s far-south and can be visited in a day – but be warned that it requires a lot of driving (around 4.5 hours each way). Along the way, you can stop at Noravank Monastery and Carahunge (the ‘Armenian Stonehenge’ ).

I did this day trip with Hyur Service on my first visit to Armenia and loved it. Read more about my experience here .

→ Book the same tour I did online via Viator.

For wine lovers: Day trip to Khor Virap & Areni wine region

Khor Virap monastery is located roughly an hour from Yerevan, very close to the Turkish border. If you want spectacular views of Mount Ararat, this is the place to go. This trip to Khor Virap with Hyur also includes a wine tasting in Areni, Armenia’s up-and-coming wine region .

If your time in Armenia ends here, you could consider an additional day trip to one of the other locations mentioned in the longer itineraries below: Haghpat and Sanahin, Gyumri, or Lake Sevan and Dilijan.

Day trip to Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries

Visiting Haghpat and Sanahin, the two UNESCO-listed monasteries in Armenia’s far-north, requires a lot of driving from Yerevan – 6 hours on the road at a minimum. If you don’t mind being in the car for that long, it’s a real treat to drive through this part of the country. Debed Canyon, where the monasteries are located, is nothing short of incredible.

Ideally you would visit the monasteries as a day trip from Vanadzor instead (see the next itinerary for details) or even from Tbilisi .

→ Book this day trip with Hyur Service online via Viator.

Day trip to Gyumri

Armenia’s second-largest city is a two-hour drive from Yerevan. Gyumri is a fascinating place with plenty to do, which is why I highly recommend spending at least one night there (see the next itinerary for details). If you’re time-poor, a day trip is still an option.

→ Book a private tour to Gyumri with Hyur via Viator.

Day trip to Lake Sevan and Dilijan

Armenia’s largest lake and Sevanavank Monastery are under 90-minutes drive from Yerevan. This tour offered by Hyur visits Dilijan, Armenia’s ‘little Switzerland’, after Lake Sevan.

One week in Armenia itinerary

As you can see, there is plenty to see and do within a few hours’ drive of Yerevan. With one week in Armenia you can experience the best of the capital, fit in a day trip or two, then explore two more regions in the north that are among my favourite places in the country – Gyumri (Armenia’s second city) and Debed Canyon.

You could easily shorten this into a 5-day Armenia itinerary by making a choice between the final two destinations.

Yerevan – [day trip] – Vanadzor & Debed Canyon – Gyumri

Days 1-2: Yerevan

See the previous itinerary for details.

Days 4-5: Vanadzor & Debed Canyon

Vanadzor has a population of just over 85,000 people, making it Armenia’s third-largest city. If you enjoy Soviet throwbacks, interesting architecture and the industrial aesthetic , then you should definitely include it on your itinerary.

Vanadzor is better known for being the gateway to Lori Region and Debed Canyon, a splendid slice of Armenia in the far-far north, close to the border with Georgia. This is one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the entire country and it’s also where you’ll find several significant monasteries, including Haghpat and Sanahin, Armenia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site .

I recommend travelling up from Yerevan in the mid-morning then spending a full afternoon in Vanadzor, starting with a home-cooked lunch at Home Restaurant . Go for a walk around the city and see how many Soviet-style sculptures and vintage cars you can spot. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

Stop by the indoor market hall , which features an interesting Soviet-style mosaic/mural on the back wall.

Spend your second day visiting the monasteries and driving through Debed Canyon. Marshrutka vans are available from Vanadzor to Alaverdi but schedules are ad-hoc and it can be difficult to get the timing right. I therefore suggest hiring a driver for the day. Taxis wait outside the bus station in Vanadzor; we paid 12,000 AMD for a full day on the road. Find my detailed guide to visiting the monasteries here .

Where to stay in Vanadzor

• Mid-range hotel: DownTown B&B (⭐ 9.3), spacious and clean apartments with ensuite bathrooms and a small kitchenette.
• Guesthouse: MagHay B&B (⭐ 9.4), family run guesthouse with outstanding hospitality and homemade meals.
• Luxury hotel: Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel (⭐ 9.1), 5-star heritage hotel on the Debed River 30 minutes from Vanadzor.

Find more Vanadzor accommodations here on Booking.com.

How to get to Vanadzor from Yerevan

Direct marshrutka vans to Vanadzor depart from Yerevan’s Kilikia Bus Station approximately every 30 minutes between 8.45am and 6.30pm daily. There does not appear to be a pause in the schedule for lunch hours. The journey time is 2.5 hours and the fare is 1200 AMD .

Days 6-7: Gyumri

Gyumri is Armenia’s second city and a total contrast to Yerevan. In 1988, the Spitak earthquake devastated Gyumri, rewriting the city’s history. The rebuilding process is still underway – both literally (many of the buildings and churches in downtown Gyumri are still awaiting repair), and figuratively.

I adore Gyumri ; I actually prefer it to Yerevan in many respects. The architecture is magnificent (as a contrast to ‘pink’ Yerevan, the buildings here are fashioned from black and gold tuff). There is a wonderful fortress and a Mother Armenia monument nearby, a great local market in town, and a bunch of interesting social enterprises, including a ceramics workshop and a cafe.

As Gyumri’s recovery continues I only expect it will become a more popular destination. The introduction of budget flights to Gyumri’s airport from Western Europe in 2019 certainly helped push things along.

This itinerary allows for 1.5 days in Gyumri after the bus ride from Vanadzor. I spent almost a full week in the city and never got bored.

Where to stay in Gyumri

• Budget-friendly guesthouse: Guest House in Gyumri (⭐ 9.8), modern rooms in a family home with outstanding hospitality, home-cooked meals and a beautiful outdoor terrace (my top choice in Gyumri!).
• Boutique hotel: Villa Kars (⭐ 9.1), gorgeous heritage-style boutique rooms set in a stone building in the centre of the city.
• Social enterprise hotel: Berlin Art Hotel (⭐ 9.0), tidy rooms, a beautiful garden and friendly service – founded by the German Red Cross.

Find more Gyumri accommodations here on Booking.com.

How to get to Gyumri from Vanadzor

Direct marshrutka vans to Gyumri depart from Vanadzor’s Bus Station at least four times daily between 9.30am and 4.30pm. The journey time is 1.5 hours and the fare is 800 AMD . The morning van tends to fill up (we almost missed out) so if possible, ask your host in Gyumri to call ahead and save you a seat. If you’re staying at Guest House in Gyumri, the owner will happily drive you to the station and ensure you get a seat.

Recommended reading for Gyumri: – My complete Gyumri city guide

10 days in Armenia itinerary

Ten days is the perfect amount of time to get a good overview of Armenia’s north. This itinerary builds on the previous one, with an extra stop at Dilijan and Lake Sevan.

If you’re interested in hiking in Armenia, Dilijan is a must-visit. If you’d prefer to spend more time in the cities, you could easily skip it and add a few extra days in Yerevan/Gyumri instead.

Yerevan – [day trip] – Tatev Monastery – Vanadzor & Debed Canyon – Dilijan & Lake Sevan – Gyumri

Day 4: Day trip to Tatev Monastery

It would be a shame to spend 10 days in Armenia and not see the south, so for this itinerary I suggest setting aside an extra day for a side trip to Tatev Monastery.

As I mentioned earlier, there is a lot of driving required (around 4.5 hours each way) to get to Tatev, but in my experience it’s not too draining provided you choose a tour itinerary with lots of stops along the way. I did this day trip with Hyur Service on my first visit to Armenia and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Hyur Service now offers four different options for Tatev:

• The highlights: Group Tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, Devil’s Bridge & Tatev Monastery (from $45 per person) – book here on Viator
• For wine lovers: Group Tour to Hin Areni Winery, Tatev Monastery & Khndzoresk Caves (from $45 per person) – book here on Viator
• For nature: Group Tour to Shaki Waterfall, Devil’s Bridge, Tatev Monastery & Hin Areni Winery (from $45 per person) – book here on Viator
• Private tour: Full-Day Trip to Khor Virap, Noravank & Tatev Monastery (from $210 per group) – book here on Viator

Recommended reading: – What to expect on a day trip to Tatev from Yerevan

Days 5-6: Dilijan & Lake Sevan

Dubbed ‘Armenia’s Little Switzerland’, Dilijan is a popular destination for hikers because of its proximity to marked trails in Dilijan National Park , including an 80km section of the Transcaucasian Trail .

Dilijan is not my favourite place in Armenia – personally I found it quite underwhelming. The beautiful stone architecture you see in photos is limited to a small (privately owned) corner of the town. I also found restaurant and accommodation prices here off-the-charts expensive when I visited in summer. (My guess is that because it’s so close to Yerevan, people flock here for fresh air and prices go up significantly in the warmer months.)

I know other people who feel the same, and I also know people who really enjoyed their time in Dilijan. I’ll let you make up your own mind.

Just be aware that if you’re not much of a hiker, you’ll run out of things to do in Dilijan pretty quickly. I spent most of my time at Cafe #2 (daily from 9am) on the lake drinking coffee and eating pancakes! (In all seriousness this is a wonderful social enterprise cafe that you should visit at least once.)

If you are a hiker, the trails to Parz Lich lake and Haghartsin Monastery are supposed to be among the best.

My favourite part of Dilijan was this spectacular mineral water spring , which I had to stop to photograph every time I walked past. I guess I’m not the only one – I later found a tote bag illustrated with the same spring at the little shop inside Cafe #2. Needless to say it came home with me!

From Dilijan, you can easily take a side trip to Lake Sevan , the biggest lake in the Caucasus. It takes around 40 minutes to reach the peninsular where Sevanavank Monastery and the Sevan Writers’ House are located.

It only takes an hour or so to visit the peninsula – there’s not much else to do except visit the monastery, photograph the Writers’ House, and watch the maniacal jet skiers criss-cross the lake. See my Lake Sevan guide for more suggestions.

If you’re up for a bit of Soviet adventurising, you can spend a night on the peninsula, staying at the Sevan Writers’ House which nowadays contains a basic but atmospheric hotel . Not only is the hotel a whacky and fun experience, but it’s much more pleasurable to explore the monastery and peninsula in the early morning before the crowds arrive.

Reservations for the Writers’ House can be made here on Booking.com .

Where to stay in Dilijan

• Mid-range hotel: Popock Dilijan 1 (⭐ 8.8), small but comfortable rooms set on the hill above town.
• Cottage: Old Dili (⭐ 9.3), cute self-contained wooden cabin walking distance from the centre of Dilijan.
• Luxury hotel: Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex (⭐ 8.9), stylish rooms and beautiful common spaces set in a series of old stone buildings.

Find more Dilijan accommodations here on Booking.com.

How to get to Dilijan from Yerevan

Direct marshrutka vans to Dilijan depart from Yerevan’s Northern Bus Station every 30-60 minutes between 9am and 4pm daily. The journey time is 1.75 hours and the fare is 1000 AMD .

How to travel between Lake Sevan and Dilijan

Yerevan-bound vans all pass by Lake Sevan so to get to the lake, we simply took a van from Dilijan bus station and jumped off early. Drivers will only drop you on the highway so you need to walk the rest of the way to the lake (around 15 minutes on foot). Tickets must be purchased in advance from the cashier inside the Dilijan bus station. We paid 500 AMD to get to Sevan from Dilijan.

To get back to Dilijan, we simply flagged down a passing van on the main road (opposite to where the first driver let us off). We ended up paying double to get back, but a big storm was rolling in and we were just thankful to find a ride!

Recommended reading: – 10 things to do at Lake Sevan

Days 7-8: Vanadzor & Debed Canyon

How to get to vanadzor from dilijan.

Direct marshrutka vans to Vanadzor depart from Dilijan Bus Station at least six times daily between 8.30am and 5.30pm. The journey time is 45 minutes and the fare is 800 AMD . Note that there are no vans on this route between midday and 4pm.

Remember that paper tickets must be purchased from the cashier inside the Dilijan bus station. If travelling in summer, it’s recommended to buy your tickets at least a couple of hours in advance or the day before.

Days 9-10: Gyumri

Direct marshrutka vans to Vanadzor depart from the bus station in Gyumri three times daily between 9.30am and 4.30pm. The journey time is 1.5 hours and the fare is 800 AMD .

More time? Other places to visit in Armenia

If you have more time in Armenia, I suggest heading south, adding Jermuk – Goris – Khndzoresk to make this into a 2-week Armenia itinerary. Or you could head north into Georgia to continue your travels.

Momik Wine Cube (Areni)

Armenia’s Areni wine region isn’t as developed as Georgia’s Kakheti , but there are some great wineries that have opened to visitors in recent years. I’m itching to visit Momik WineCube in Vayots Dzor.

A number of important archaeological sites – including the Areni-1 Cave where the world’s oldest leather shoe was found – are located in the wine region around Areni.

Jermuk is an old Soviet-era spa town with a similar vibe to Borjomi in Georgia . As well as a stately Water Gallery building and several working sanatoria there are hiking trails and waterfalls nearby.

Direct marshrutka vans to Jermuk depart from Yerevan’s Kilikia Bus Station. At the time of writing, there are only three vans in the afternoon between 1pm and 4pm. The journey time is 4-4.5 hours and the fare is 2000 AMD . From Jermuk, you can find onward transport to Goris and Khndzoresk locally.

Further south, the town of Goris is known for being the gateway to Tatev Monastery . If you plan on visiting the monastery and ropeway independently, this is where you should set out from.

There are hiking trails around Goris that lead you through unique pinnacle rock formation, some with medieval cave dwellings cut from the rock. The town itself – the first in Armenia to be built in a grid pattern – looks quite pretty.

Khndzoresk village is just outside Goris and has a similar landscape of canyons, rocky spires and man-made caves . From the photos I’ve seen, it looks quite spectacular.

Are you planning a trip to Armenia? If there’s anything I might be able to help with please feel free to leave your questions or comments below!

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My favourite resources and tools for planning a trip to Armenia.

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More from Armenia

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• Where to find authentic and meaningful Armenian souvenirs in Yerevan
• Don’t miss the GUM Market , Yerevan’s colourful produce hall
• Tips for being a responsible tourist in Armenia
• The best day trip from Yerevan
• Guide to Gyumri , Armenia’s second city
• Guide to visiting the UNESCO monasteries, Haghpat and Sanahin
• How to travel between Armenia and Georgia by overnight train
• 12 things you should know before travelling to the Caucasus

19 Comments

Hi Emily, I am planning a 10 -12 days trip in mid oct across Armenia and Georgia and find your site very useful. I will fly into Yeravan go along to Gyumri, up to Batumi and follow route ( with stops ) to Tbilisi. Is it possible to get from Gyumri to Batumi ? Checking Rio 2 rome it says a bus which is going through Turkey, but from what you say thats not possible ?

Hi Maria, Rome2Rio is not much use here… The Armenia Turkey border has been closed for many years. You should go through Akhaltsikhe (in Georgia) – there are vans from Gyumri to Akhaltsikhe and from there, onward transportation throughout Georgia is easy to find.

Hi Emiliy! I really enjoyed all your guides and tips while travelling in Georgia (Tbilisi and Kakheti) for two weeks last summer. This year we are returning, and want to add Armenia to our 2 week itinerary. We fly in and out of Kutaisi, and want to visit Kazbegi, take the overnight Tbilisi- Yerevan train, spend at least 3 days in Yerevan, and get back to Kutaisi from there. What is the easiest way of travelling the Yerevan-Gyumri-Akhaltsike route? Do we need two overnight stops, and what are the best shared shuttle providers?

Hi Lena, many thanks!

I would take the train (if it’s a weekend) or a marshrutka to Gyumri from Yerevan and stop there for a night. Then from Gyumri you can usually find a marshrutka across the border to either Akhaltsikhe or Akhalkalaki. Overnight in Akhaltsikhe for Vardzia. Then Akhaltsikhe-Kutaisi is easy to do by van. The cross-border leg might be tricky as they sometimes won’t run vans in shoulder season, but you can ask in Gyumri and hopefully find something. Shared taxis should also be available.

Hi Emily! Thanks for your beautiful blog! We visited Georgia for 9 full days and I planned most of our trip according to yours itineraries and suggestions. It was our last backpackers trip as I got lucky in Georgia and now we have a nice little addition in the family. Now we are planning 8 days in Armenia during second week of April being the first leisure trip for our 11-month old. We are looking forward to have a more relaxed vacation amidst greenery, mountains and forests, waterfalls and some nice resorts or hotels. Kindly suggest, appreciate your thoughts.

How wonderful, Java! Big congratulations. Some version of this itinerary could work well, or you might head south to Jermuk, I hear it is quite beautiful and relaxing. This website is a terrific resource for Armenia travel planning: https://absolutearmenia.com/blog/

Safe travels and I hope the three of you have a wonderful trip!

Dear Emily, wanted to take the opportunity and say thank you for all the great information you have incorporated into your blog. It was super helpful for us when planning our time in Armenia and Georgia. Just coming back from Armenia, I wanted to share two additional highlights. One is the swinging bridge in KHNDZORESK as well as the old romantic monastery at the bottom of the canyon (where the bridge goes over). Another thing is the abandond Radio-Optical Telescope in Orgov. Blew us completely away. Seems to become quite popular, just the guy at the entrance one need to deal with :). Thanks again for all your valuable tips, often the locals have even confirmed your tips! All the best for you

Thanks so much for the tips Konstanze! Sounds amazing. I really have to explore more of Armenia. Glad you enjoyed your trip!

Hi Emily! first of all, thanks for your beautiful blog! We are just back from Georgia and I planned most of our trip according to yours itineraries and suggestions. Now we are planning 10 days in Armenia at the very end of October/first week of November. In Georgia we have rented a car and we had nearly no problems (ok, they are crazy drivers but we are from Italy and probably we are a bit used to anarchy!). What about roads in Armenia? Normally we love taking trains and marshrutkas, but there are so many things I would like to see and we are really tempted about this option… I think it would save us so much time, but on the other side we would miss so much of the local life experience… Any personal experience? Loretta

Hello Loretta, so happy to hear that! And awesome to hear that you’ll be back in the region again so soon! I think you will find driving in Armenia fairly similar. If anything the driving style is a bit less aggressive in my experience. Most of the major roads are in good condition, we only came across a few potholed areas on our latest expedition. I say go for it!

Thank you so much for such details info about your trip. I am planning to visit Armenia in mid- March for a few days. Would love your advice if it is a good time to go. Thank you.

Hi Allie, I think we spoke on Instagram. March is still a little chilly but it’s a nice quiet time to travel. Hope you have a wonderful trip!

Hi, I enjoyed reading your posts from Georgia and now here to Armenia. I am curious to know if you did tour around the country on wintertime version. While it might be better to visit the country in Summer to witness the real beauty of it, we set it to celebrate New Year’s (supposedly Christmas as well) holiday by going out of the country and we decided to go in Armenia this time. I want to know if you have any insights that we might possibly make it a memorable one in wintertime? We will be staying for 10 days and our first 3 days, we planned to stay in Tsaghkhadzor to enjoy the snow probably take easy activities that my parents can take part at the same time have fun. The remaining days will be staying in the city and do some tours in some other days.

Hi! I did visit Northern Armenia last year in February – Debed Canyon was very beautiful in the snow. If you get a chance, I would recommend going there too. Yerevan is an all-year city and I’m sure it will be great fun in winter. Enjoy!

Hi. Thank you so much! We will include it on our trip. We are finally here in Armenia and in the hotel in Tsagkhadzor. It’s quite a crazy cold but feels nice. it’s our last day tomorrow but experiencing taking a few days here is great! But we will plan a trip to Debed Canyon when we get to Yerevan. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year~

Wonderful to hear! Have an amazing time! Enjoy, and stay warm! Happy holidays.

Hi, I’m planning to stay around 10 days in Armenia, but I’m arriving to and then flying back home from Yerevan. Do you think it makes sense (logistics-wise) to stay in Yerevan the whole trip or is it worth it to spend a night (or few) in some other towns/villages? I saw that most of the sights in Armenia seem to be easily reachable from the capital (maybe except from the south?). I will rely mostly on public transport and would like to visit the main touristic destinations in the country.

Hi M – I think that’s very possible. As you say, most places are within a few hours’ drive of Yerevan so you can visit most major tourist destinations as part of a day trip. I did a day trip to Tatev Monastery in the south and it was great, but a very long drive. If you wanted to spend a night or two outside of Yerevan I would recommend staying there!

Thank you Emily!

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Best of Armenia , Itineraries & Road Trips

2 incredible armenia itinerary options: 7 days in armenia.

This guide is all about planning the perfect Armenia itinerary for your trip! We offer two options for how to best spend 4, 6, or 7 days in Armenia regardless of what your travel style is!

If youʻre booking your trip to Yerevan  last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

🇦🇲  Top Experiences and Tours in/from Yerevan:

• Day Trip to Khorvirap, Noravank, and Areni Winery (top-rated day tour from Yerevan!)
• Garni Temple & Geghard Tour with Lavash Baking Day tour (also popular day tour!)
• Tsaghkadzor & Lake Sevan Guided Tour (wonderful nature tour from Yerevan!)
• Private Walking Food Tour with 6 Tastings (recommended food tour in Yerevan!)

🛌  Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander   (luxury option + SPA, authentic dining venues, indoor pool!)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in excellent location!)
• 14th Floor (in the center with a wonderful view of Mount Ararat!)
• Grand Hostel (budget option in Yerevan!)

🚗  Looking for the best way to get around Armenia? Click here to check rental car rates for Armenia!

Let us know if you have any questions at the end or have any tips for how to create an optimal itinerary for Armenia!

Armenia is a small, beautiful country, but it’s not necessarily easy to navigate because of its mountainous landscape and poorly developed infrastructure.

Though it’s getting better each year, it’s still not quite perfect which is why many travelers think if the country is small then a 4-day Armenia trip to Armenia can be enough to see the country, however, that might be not enough.

We have traveled the country extensively and on every trip, we discover new and amazing places to visit in Armenia , but we also understand that for first-time visitors it can be quite difficult to figure out where to go and what to see in Armenia.

For now, we have created two types of itineraries, where we have tried to include sights for history and culture lovers as well as nature lovers as there is so much to see in Armenia.

The best thing about these itineraries is that you can easily change sights, dates, and locations to make them suitable to your needs and interests, especially if you have a rental car or are booking a tour.

Each version of the itinerary will have accommodation options in the particular region where you can stay as well as tours that you can take to see multiple sights in a short period of time.

Armenia Itinerary Suggestions Overview (Self-drive or with Private Driver)

Here is a quick glimpse at our two itinerary suggestions for Armenia:

Cultural Heritage Itinerary in Armenia

• Day 1: Khor Virap, Areni-1 Cave, Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery
• Day 2: Temple of Garni, Geghard Monastery
• Day 3: Yerevan
• Day 4: Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots Cathedral, Voskevaz Winery
• Day 5: Lake Sevan, Dilijan National Park, Haghartsin Monastery
• Day 6: Odzun, Horomayri Monastery, Ardvi, Lori Berd
• Day 7: Sanahin Monastery, Haghpat Monastery

Nature and Adventure Itinerary in Armenia

• Day 1: Dilijan National Park, Parz Lake, Gosh Lake
• Day 2: Rafting in Armenia, Lori Berd, Stepanavan Dendropark
• Day 3: Yerevan, Hrazdan Gorge, Yerevan Zipline
• Day 4: Temple of Garni, Azat Gorge, Symphony of Stones
• Day 5: Areni-1 Cave, Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery
• Day 6: Hell’s Canyon
• Day 7: Yerevan

Armenia Itinerary #1: Cultural Heritage

To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the ‘Star’ icon next to the map name. You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to ‘Your Places’.

Day 1 of Armenia Itinerary: Khor Virap, Areni-1 Cave, Noravank, Tatev

Four amazing and must-visit places in Armenia are Khor Virap Monastery , Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery, and Areni-1 cave.

They are all relatively close together, so it’s a great opportunity to see all four of them in one day.

Each of these sites has a unique history and value to the Armenian story and we definitely recommend visiting all of them, as many people have never seen such places in their life.

Approximate driving time: 4-5 hours

Khor Virap Monastery

One of the biggest symbols of Christianity in Armenia is Khor Virap Monastery , but it’s known for more than just being the biggest heritage of the first Christian nation in the world.

Khor Virap is located in a gorgeous location in the Ararat Valley with a view of the iconic mountain Ararat. Getting to Khor Virap from Yerevan is quite easy, too.

Though man-made, this facility is in harmony with nature. When the sky is not cloudy, you can see an unbelievably beautiful view of Mt. Ararat and the valley and discover Khor Virap and its history.

Khor Virap means “deep dungeon” because, under the church, there is a hole where Gregory the Illuminator was dropped to die.

He survived and later brought Christianity to Armenia in 301, which made Armenia the first Christian nation.

Khor Virap is located in Ararat province .

Areni-1 Cave Complex

Your next stop will be the wine village of Areni, where the world’s oldest winery in Areni-1 Cave was discovered nearby.

The impressive and ancient winery was discovered in 2008 and is estimated to be 6100 years old, dating to the Early Bronze Age.

You will witness the world’s oldest winery inside of the cave where many clay pots are buried in the soil that still have remains of grapes and wine.

Areni is in general known to be the wine center of Armenia. Each year in Areni village, there is a wine festival where thousands of people taste and enjoy hundreds of wines.

Also in the caves, the world’s oldest leather shoe was discovered, dated to be 5,500 years old. Right now, it is on display at the History Museum of Armenia.

Noravank Monastery

Approximately 20 minutes past Areni village is Noravank Monastery which is situated among the red-colored mountains.

Noravank Monastery is the perfect combination for travelers who want to see stunning nature and historical sites.

The monastery was founded in the 12th century in a very significant location because to reach the monastery, you need to drive through a narrow canyon surrounded by high rocks.

Tatev Monastery

If you head even further south down into Syunik, you will end up at Tatev Monastery , another significant sight in Armenia.

Tatev Monastery is not far from the town of Goris (we give accommodation options for there below) and is renowned for its remote location that is best reached by taking the Wings of Tatev cable car.

Day 1 Tour Option

• Khor Virap, Noravank, & Areni Winery Day Trip

Day 1 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Tatev Traditional Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Hotel Mira
• Luxury: Hotel Mirhav

Day 2 of Armenia Itinerary: Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery

Temple of garni.

The Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery are very close to Yerevan, making it a very popular day trip for travelers. Both sites are stunning and have centuries of history from Pagan Armenia to Christian Armenia.

Garni Temple is a rare Pagan temple that still exists in the region. It is a must-visit place for ancient history lovers.

Located only 40 minutes away from Yerevan in the Kotayk region among mountains and gorges, Garni village has a rich history with many things to do and to see.

Garni Hellenistic Temple was built in the 1st century AD. It used to be a kind summer residence dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian Pagan God of light and sun.

The temple facility has other historical artifacts to explore, like antique baths and stone arts. The view of the gorge is also something that no one should miss out on seeing.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is another must-see important historical and religious monument located deep in the mountains.

On the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, this monastery has a very unique architecture and location because a large part of the monastery is actually built into the huge rock face. The monastery was founded in the 4th century.

This is a place where human minds and creativity meet nature, as you can see from the harmonious collaboration between nature and architecture.

Geghard in Armenian means “spear” because for centuries the spear that Jesus Christ was wounded with was brought to Armenia and kept at Geghard Monastery until it was later moved to the Holy Etchmiadzin.

Day 2 Tour Option

• Half-day tour to Garni and Geghard from Yerevan

Day 2 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Guest House Garni Resthouse
• Mid-range: Chez Yvette
• Luxury: Hotel Garni 7 Qar

Day 3 of Armenia Itinerary: Discover Yerevan

While you are staying in Yerevan take a day and explore Yerevan – the beautiful and charming capital of Armenia built from pink volcanic tuff, which gives the city a unique and beautiful look.

Yerevan is more than 2,800 years old and considered one of the oldest capitals in the world, being even 29 years older than Rome!

There are many sites in the city to see like the Cascades Complex, the Opera House, Republic Square, and many others.

Yerevan has a great cafe culture throughout the city, but especially around the Cascades and Saryan wine street . You can discover small charming vineyards and cafes where you can enjoy fantastic local wine and food.

Day 3 Tour Option

• Yerevan: City Tour with Brandy Tasting and Carpet Weaving

Day 3 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Grand Hostel
• Mid-Range: Daniel Boutique Hotel  
• Luxury: The Alexander  

Day 4 of Armenia Itinerary: Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots Cathedral, Voskevaz Winery

Other very close day trip locations from Yerevan are the Holy City of Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots Cathedral ruins, and Voskevaz winery.

All of the locations are close to each other and located in one region, Armavir. Armavir is known for its green valleys and is home to some of the oldest churches in the world.

Etchmiadzin

Known also as the Holy City of Etchmiadzin , it is the center of Christianity in Armenia because it has one of the oldest churches in both Armenia and the world.

The small city of Etchmiadzin is located only 20 km away from Yerevan and has more than 2,000 years of history.

It has more than one UNESCO World Heritage Site, like Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church, and Zvartnots Cathedral ruins.

Etchmiadzin is a charming city where you can visit nice museums and enjoy food in local restaurants .

Zvartnots Cathedral

Right before entering Etchmiadzin city, on the right side of the highway, you will find beautiful gates decorated with stone statues and ornaments.

This is the main entrance to the ancient Zvartnots Cathedral ruins.

You can take a walk down a long path lined with apricot and cherry trees, or enter the parking lot by car.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was erected in the 7th century AD, a rare architectural style for that time.

It was destroyed by a strong earthquake in the 10th century AD. There are still some preserved ruins showcasing the beauty and complicated architecture of the facility.

The backdrop of Zvartnots Cathedral is the beautiful Ararat mountain. Close to the ruins, there is a museum where you can learn more about the construction and the site’s history.

• Working hours: 10:00-17:00 Monday closed
• Fee: 700 AMD + 100 AMD for parking

Etchmiadzin Cathedral

One of the oldest Christian churches in the world, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral complex is located in the center of the city. It is also known as the Armenian Vatican and is one of the most popular Armenian church tour destinations.

As the first Christian nation, Armenia has many old churches, but Etchmiadzin Cathedral is the oldest. It was built in 301 AD, the year Armenia adopted Christianity as its state religion.

The area around the Cathedral has a beautiful garden with flowers and trees, an ancient graveyard, and one of the oldest restaurants in the Caucasus.

Voskevaz Winery

Take your time and drive to Voskevaz Winery , which resembles a fairytale castle and is located only 30 minutes away from Echmiadzin in the Aragatsotn region .

It is a great place to finish up a day of exploration with a glass of wine and a tour to see where and how it is made.

The factory was founded in 1932 and is located a couple of kilometers from Kasakh Gorge.

It is near where the ruins of Badals Church are and where clay amphoras for winemaking were discovered buried in the soil. Click here for more.

Day 4 Tour Option

• Khor Virap, Etchmiadzin, and Zvartnots tour from Yerevan

Day 5 of Armenia Itinerary: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery

After returning to Yerevan on the 5th day, you should head to the Blue Pearl of Armenia- Lake Sevan .

It is known for its island monastery, beaches, and a lakeside restaurant, as well as the green heart of Armenia- Dilijan and Haghartsin Monastery , located nearby.

All these locations are located approximately 1-2 hours away from Yerevan and are easily accessible and the perfect day trips from Yerevan .

One of the most beautiful places in Armenia is definitely Lake Sevan , known as the Blue Pearl of Armenia. Sevan is the biggest lake in the Caucasus. Located in the Gegharkunik region, it is only an hour away from Yerevan.

From the highway, you can turn right and drive to Sevan Island, which is now a peninsula after the water level went down over the last 100 years.

There are two beautiful churches on the peninsula, located at the top of the island and accessible by a staircase

At the top, you will get a mesmerizing view of the lake and mountains. You can also visit the Sevanavank Monastery complex, founded in 874 AD.

Click here to read more about getting to Lake Sevan from Yerevan .

Day 5 Tour Option

• Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin

Day 5 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Kavkazski Dvor
• Mid-Range: Hover Boutique
• Luxury: Four Seasons Guest House Dilijan

Day 6 of Armenia Itinerary: Odzun, Horomayri Monastery, Ardvi, Lori Berd

Lori region is rich with history and heritage and many sights are located in the most obscure and mind-blowing locations.

We recommend you visit one of the country’s northernmost regions, Lori, and discover Odzun village surrounded by mountains.

You will also have a chance to see the mysterious Horomayri Monastery located in the dramatic Debed Gorge, Ardvi village, and the ancient Lori Fortress (Lori Berd).

Odzun is the largest village in Lori. It has a rich heritage and is located almost on the edge of Debed Gorge.

The jewel of the village is the Odzun Church, one of the earliest Christian churches in Armenia after Etchmiadzin Cathedral.

Horomayri Church

The fascinating 12th-century Horomayri Monastery ruins are located in Debed Gorge.

You will need to hike to visit this spot, but you also can observe it at a distance from the edge of the gorge.

Horomayri Monastery is located approximately 1 km away from Odzun village and the viewpoint of the gorge and the church is located behind the three small churches right on the edge of Debed gorge.

Ardvi , a little village with a charming church and beautiful views, is located 15 minutes away from Odzun village.

Ardvi has a beautiful little church located at the end of the village surrounded by huge rocks, next to an ancient graveyard with khachkars.

The village has a unique legend: a giant snake attacked the village, but later St. Hovhannes Odznetsi turned it into a stone.

From his body, which is visible in the big rock, healing water comes out. It’s called “Odzi port,’’ in reference to the water appearing to come from the snake’s belly button.

Lori Fortress (Lori Berd)

Another must-see of the Lori region is Lori Berd , also known as Lori Fortress .

It is an 11th-century fortress built on the edge of the crossroads of the Urut and Dzoraget Gorges, at an elevation of 1379m. It once was the capital of the Tashir-Dzoraget kingdom.

The ticket price is 1400 AMD.

Day 6 Tour Option

• Odzun, Akhtala and UNESCO Heritage Sites Tour

Day 6 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Odzun RG
• Mid-range: Olya Guesthouse   

Day 7 of Armenia Itinerary: Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries

On your final day before returning to Yerevan, we suggest visiting two unbelievably unique monasteries which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sanahin Monastery and Haghpat Monastery are not only points of interest in the Lori region but also in all of Armenia because of its architectural and spiritual values and heritage.

Both sites are located on plateaus and are about 15km from each other.

Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries

Both monasteries are a mix of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture and Caucasian traditional architecture from around the 10th-13th centuries.

Sanahin means ‘’this one is older than that one’’ because Sanahin Monastery (10th century) is a little bit older than the Haghpat Monastery (also from the 10th century).

Both monasteries are fascinating places that are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After visiting Sanahin Monastery Complex and Haghpat Monastery you can return to Yerevan as your final day.

If you are planning to spend more days in Armenia, there are many other places you can visit.

Day 7 Tour Option

• Armenia: Private Tour to Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries

Armenia Itinerary #2: Nature and Activities

You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, clicking the menu and adding it to ‘Your Places’.

Day 1 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Dilijan, Parz Lake, Gosh Lake

Your first day can start from Dilijan, located in the Tavush region with lush green forests, mountain lakes, and many hiking trails.

Dilijan can occupy you for more than one day if you have time. It’s a great location to start discovering Armenia .

You can camp next to Gosh Lake located in the mountains, discover Dilijan with its old districts, and hike in the Dilijan National Park and the surrounding areas.

Dilijan National Park

Dilijan will surprise you with its lush, forested mountains, hiking trails, and delicious local Armenian cuisine . Dilijan is also home to many amazing hotels and guesthouses up in the mountains.

If you decide to make Dilijan your base in Armenia, you will have easy access to beautiful nature. You will be able to visit places like Parz and Gosh Lakes, which are located only 15 minutes away from the city center by car.

Gosh Lake’s road is more for 4WD/SUVs or hikers, while Parz Lake is much more accessible and can be driven to. For thrill-seekers, there is an opportunity to participate in adventure activities at VereV Rope Park in Dilijan.

Dilijan National Park is a large forest with many rare trees, plants, and wild animals such as foxes, brown bears, red deer, and more.

There are plenty of things to discover in Dilijan if you wish to stay more than one day.

Day 2 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Rafting, Lori Berd, Stepanavan Dendropark

On your second day, you’ll find a mixture of activities, starting with rafting on the powerful Debed River in Lori.

Then visit one of the beautiful fortresses in Lori, located on the edge of the gorge. Next, get lost in the lush green Stepanavan Dendropark, and finally, you will head back to Yerevan to get ready for other upcoming adventures.

Rafting in Armenia

If you love extreme sports and are not afraid to get wet, then rafting in the Debed River is one heck of a fun way to start your day.

The experienced guides will explain how to raft, so this is an activity for all skill levels.

The river goes for many kilometers and is surrounded by mountains and large rocks nestled in dense greenery.

It is a wild time and you’re sure to meet some new people! Click here to learn more!

Lori Berd (Lori Fortress)

The road to Lori Fortress is no less impressive; the fortress itself passes through Stepanavan town crossing the impressive huge bridge where the view to the gorge is amazing and the scenery gorgeous.

As you get closer, you will be able to see the ancient fortress on the edge of the massive gorge.

Stepanavan Dendropark

The last place to visit before going back to Yerevan is the large green space that is the Stepanavan Dendropark.

Stepanavan Dendropark was established in 1931 by Edmund Leonowicz who was a Polish engineer.

The space is 35 hectares with 500 species of plants and trees from all around the world.

Stroll up and down the forested paths to the flower gardens, greenhouses, and river. Relax and feel the atmosphere of nature preserved for almost a hundred years.

Don’t forget to say hi to and pet the adorable blind guide dog, Mike!

• 1-day Horseback Riding in the Lush Region of Lori

Day 3 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Yerevan, Hrazdan Gorge, Zipline

On the third day, you can fully enjoy Yerevan.

Walk around and discover both its hidden and famous sights, learn the history of the ancient city, and of course, enjoy the Yerevan evening in hip cafes and bars.

Also, during the day, don’t miss out on the opportunity to fly over the Hrazdan Gorge with Yerevan Zipline, the longest zipline in Armenia that goes under a massive bridge.

Yerevan Cafes and Bars

Yerevan has a burgeoning scene of new, hip cafes and bars, which mixes well with the existing sidewalk cafe lifestyle.

You can also find some amazing coffee in Yerevan these days.

Visit places like Kong, Epicure, Mamba, In Vino, and Mirzoyan Library and enjoy Yerevan’s colorful cafes and bar life where you can meet new and interesting people.

Yerevan Zipline

The Yerevan Zipline is fun and full of adrenaline all in one place that will allow you to fly over the beautiful Hrazdan Gorge and cross under the Davtashen bridge.

The zipline has two lines, which means you will be able to fly twice. The longest line is 870 meters long.

The professional staff will guide you until the end of your flight and will teach you the basic knowledge of how to zip 150km/h down to the gorge.

• Working hours: All week  10:30 – 19:30
• Ticket fee: 14,000 AMD

• The Magic and Secrets of Yerevan Walking Tour

Day 4 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Temple of Garni, Azat Gorge, Symphony of Stones

On day four, you will go to the Kotayk region, which is next to Yerevan, and visit Garni village, the Azat Gorge, and the Symphony of Stones, all amazing natural wonders.

Symphony of Stones

The Symphony of Stones is a hexagonal and pentagonal stone column natural monument, which is over 70m tall.

The basalt columns are visible from all parts of the gorge and resemble organ pipes.

After visiting Garni Temple, you can hike down to Azar Gorge directly from the left side of the entrance of the temple and observe the Symphony of Stones yourself.

If you have extra time, check out Azat Reservoir nearby!

• From Yerevan: 2-Day Garni, Geghard & Azhdahak Hiking Tour

Day 4 Armenia Hotel Recommendations

• Budget: Guest House Garni

Day 5 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Areni-1 Cave, Noravank and Tatev Monasteries

The next day, you will have a bit of a Armenia road trip to the southern wonders of Armenia in the Vayots Dzor and Syunik regions.

The first stop is the Areni-1 Cave where, according to archeological discoveries, wine was first made.

After visiting the cave, visit the nearby Noravank Monastery which will occupy you for another couple of hours.

Your final adventure for Day 5 should definitely be the cable tramway called the “Wings of Tatev,” which takes you to the iconic Tatev Monastery.

This is the longest reversible aerial tramway i n the world at almost 6 km in length. Getting to Tatev from Yerevan is easy if you’d like to start that leg first.

• Private Tour: Tatev, Ropeway, Khndzoresk, & Areni Winary
• Budget: Tatev Traditional guesthouse

Day 6 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Hell’s Canyon

We recommend that Day 6 be a day where you do something very adventurous, like canyoning in a place called Hell’s Canyon.

It will take all day to do this activity so be ready to give it one full day.

The tour company you can go with will take you to the canyon and then bring you back to Yerevan at the end of the day.

Day 7 of Armenia Itinerary #2: Back to Yerevan

On the last day, start making your way back to Yerevan.

You can make some worthwhile stops at places like the beautiful Shaki Waterfall , Areni-1 Cave (again), Khor Virap, and Karahunj along the way.

We hope that you enjoyed these Armenia itinerary options and please let us know if you have any questions or additional recommendations! Thanks!

Armenia Itinerary FAQ

How many days are needed for armenia.

If you have short traveling days, then 4 to 5 days in Armenia will be enough to see one of the most important Armenian cultural and historical sites. However, to take your time and plan your perfect Armenia itinerary, we recommend considering up to 7 days in Armenia. This way you will have an opportunity to visit all Armenian sites, from the stunning Tatev Monastery to the lush green Lori region and everything in between.

Which Month is Good for Visiting Armenia?

Summer temperatures in Armenia can reach up to 40°C, which might be uncomfortable for those who prefer cooler weather. We recommend visiting Armenia in spring, specifically April-May, or in autumn, from September to October, when the temperatures are significantly lower.

How to Get from Georgia to Armenia?

It’s very easy to travel between Georgia and Armenia, as they are neighboring countries. There are several options for getting from one country to the other, but public transportation is generally the most convenient and affordable. To assist travelers in planning their journey, we’ve created a helpful article on how to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan by minibus (marshrutka).

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1 thoughts on “ 2 Incredible Armenia Itinerary Options: 7 Days in Armenia ”

Only in the planning stages of doing a trip though Georgia, Artsakh, Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran. If one was to spend 3 weeks or more in Armenia, what route would you suggest? We would have 4 to 6 months in total. Any suggestions for time frame for the other countries?

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• 10 Places To Visit In Armenia: Build Amazing Memories In A Beautiful Destination

If you are planning for a memorable trip and anxiously exploring some top-notch destinations, you have every reason to set your eyes on Armenia. As one of the oldest existing nations, Armenia was the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion and enjoys having a glorious 3,500 culture.

Boasting on a myriad of tourist destinations, Armenia is excelled-in as a paradise for visitors for letting them explore lots of things—be it beholding the breath-taking views of mountains, spectacular landscape, scenery or engaging with plenty of interesting activities.

Interesting Places To Visit In Armenia

Let’s explore some of the most interesting places to visit in Armenia that are rich in culture, history and as beautiful as any popular tourist destination.

1. Enjoy Incredible Architecture in Yerevan 2. Behold the Beauty of Lake Sevan 3. Visit the Classic Temple in Garni 4. Visit the Mystery Place Karahunj 5. Explore the Unexplored Shikahogh State Reserve 6. Engross Into the Natural Beauty of Jermuk 7. Discover Peaceful Moments in Dilijan National Park 8. Behold an Incredible Beauty of Mount Aragats 9. Behold the Beauty of Mamrot Qar Waterfall 10. Explore Tatev Monastery

1. Enjoy Incredible Architecture in Yerevan

Image Source

While talking about the hottest places to visit in Armenia, it’s good to start with none other than the capital city, Yerevan, that came into existence in 782 BC. Visiting the city of Yerevan rejuvenates visitors, whether they flock here for the first time or have visited several times. The city is famous for featuring world-famous architecture, which first-time visitors cannot afford to miss. Also known as ‘the city of the cafes,’ Yerevan is home to restaurants, cozy cafes, parks, etc.

Things to Do in Yerevan: Visit Republic Square, Yerevan Cascade, etc. Best Time to Visit Yerevan: June to August and December to February How to Reach Yerevan: By plane, rail, car, etc.

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2. Behold the Beauty of Lake Sevan

Another exciting destination to explore on the course of your Armenian trip, Sevan is blessed with the mind-blowing beauty invigorated by the Lake Sevan that titillates the minds of visitors. Anyone seeking to experience a real natural beauty should not miss a visit to Lake Sevan, located 66 km from Yerevan.

Spread over a total area of 1,900 m, Lake Sevan, popularly pronounced as the Pearl of the Armenian Nature, is the right spot for everyone. You can enjoy BBQ, cruising, getting an exciting glimpse of the mind-blowing scenery, and lots more.

Things to Do in Lake Sevan: Visit Sevanavank, Sevan Island, Hayravank Monastery, etc. Best Time to Visit Lake Sevan: Mid summer and winter seasons. How to Reach Lake Sevan: From Yerevan, take minibus, vans, metro, etc.

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3. Visit the Classic Temple in Garni

The majority of tourists enjoy making their way to the villages on the course of their journey. If you are one of those and looking for the best village to explore in Armenia, Garni is the right option for you to explore. Situated in the Kotayk Province in Armenia, Garni is a much-talked about tourist destination for featuring the classical temples and other popular attractions. They include ruined Khumarazham Church, Mashtots Hayrapet Church, The Havuts Tar Monastic Complex, and lots more.

Visit Garni Gorge; Geghard; Temples, etc. Best Time to Visit Garni: All months How to Reach Garni: By taxi, torbus, etc.

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4. Visit the Mystery Place Karahunj

Located at a distance of 200 km from the capital city of Armenia, Karahunj is the next village that you will come across while searching for the most visited places in this country. Visitors who flock this place can get puzzled with the mystery of the 200 stones, each having holes with a diameter of 5 cm. This is a mystery for many scientists in terms of its use, origin, etc.

Things to Do in Karahunj: Visit Khndzoresk Bridge; Medieval Goris Cave Dwellings, etc. Best Time to Visit Karahunj: All months How to Reach Karahunj: By taxi, bus, etc.

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5. Explore the Unexplored Shikahogh State Reserve

Shikahogh State Reserve is one of the hidden places in Armenia. Covered with lush green mountains, Shikahogh State Reserve is still unexplored as it’s covered with dense forests containing 1,100 species of plants. It is one such reason why it’s known to be an unexplored city. If you are a nature and animal lover, then Shikahogh State Reserve has lots to offer for you. The forest houses different animals such as wild goats, bears, leopards, etc.

Things to Do in Shikahogh State Reserve: Visit Mount Khustup; See animals, etc. Best Time to Visit Shikahogh State Reserve: All months

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6. Engross Into the Natural Beauty of Jermuk

The mild climate, healing mineral water, and marvelous natural beauty are something that contributes to making Jermuk as the most inspirational place for tourists to explore and popularize among them as a famous spa city in Armenia. While visiting this place, never forget tasting the healing mineral water, which you can do by visiting the Gallery of Water.

Visiting Jermuk will never complete without beholding the exquisite view of none other than Jermuk Waterfall, Armenia’s second-largest waterfall. The water falling from a height of 70 m gives you an exhilarating experience that engrossed into the melody of nature.

Things to Do in Jermuk: Visit waterfall; Mineral water gallery, etc Best Time to Visit Jermuk: All months How to Reach Jermuk: By buses, mini buses from Yerevan.

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7. Discover Peaceful Moments in Dilijan National Park

The Dilijan National Park, built in the year 2002, is another amusing place for the visitors by letting them explore lots of things such as natural monuments, medicinal mineral water springs, and lots more. Getting an exciting glimpse of Armenia’s culture is something that grabs the attention of a majority of visitors. Dilijan National Park is a one-stop destination to explore this. The park features a plethora of cultural locations like Goshavank Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery, Jukhtak Vank, etc.

Things to Do in Dilijan National Park: Visit Lake Parz, Matosavank, etc. Best Time to Visit Dilijan National Park: All months How to Reach Dilijan National Park: By taxi, van minibuses, etc.

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8. Behold an Incredible Beauty of Mount Aragats

Another most visited place in Armenia, Mount Aragats welcomes tourists from across the globe, especially those who are nature lovers and seeking to behold the flamboyant beauty of nature. Being the highest peak in Armenia, Mount Aragats lets you enjoy a lot of rock arts that include human alike paintings, animal paintings, etc.that date back to approximately 100 years.

Snow-covered peak magnifies the beauty of mount Aragats to offer unforgettable experience of those of adventure lovers who can enjoy climbing it in the month of July, August, and September. Those seeking to climb the mountain smoothly can pick the southernmost peak, while others who love challenges can opt for the northern peak.

Things to Do in Mount Aragats: Visit Alphabet Park, Arshakid Mausoleum, etc. Best Time to Visit Mount Aragats: All times How to Reach Mount Aragats: By bus, minibus, etc.

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9. Behold the Beauty of Mamrot Qar Waterfall

On your visit to Armenia, you can also spot some less discovered places, apart from top-notch tourist destinations. One such place you will come across is the popular Mamrot Qar Waterfall. Located in Nagorno-Karabakh in the eastern part of the country, it beholds the umbrella form of waterfall thus lets visitors get a completely rejuvenating experience. Mamrot Qar Waterfall is one of the most visited natural sights in Armenia. So, you should never miss to get a fascinating glimpse of such an incredible gift of nature to human beings.

Things to Do in Mamrot Qar Waterfall: See exotic waterfalls Best Time to Visit Mamrot Qar Waterfall: All months How to Reach Mamrot Qar Waterfall: By bus, minibuses, etc.

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10. Explore Tatev Monastery

Located approximately 253 km from Yerevan, Tatev is another exciting place to explore on the course of your Armenian trip. This place is easily accessible by the tourists – all you need to do is to hire a taxi from Yerevan and make your way into this place. Visiting Tatev Monastery lets you explore a stunning medieval structure built around 9th century AD.

Beautified with peasant surroundings and complemented with mountainous landscape, Tatev Monastery has every reason to lure visitors to let them enjoy the fantastic scenery. To access this place, you can take the cable cars, which is known to be the longest in the world.

Things to Do in Tatev Monastery: Visit monastic complex; dum of the church, etc Best Time to Visit Tatev Monastery: All months How to Reach Tatev Monastery: By bus, minibuses

Further Read: 3 Places To Visit Near Asian Civilisations Museum That Are Perfect For The Explorers!

These are some of the much-talked about places to visit in Armenia, though this country houses lot of other tourist destinations. It’s really difficult to choose, as all have equal craze among the tourists. To explore all such places, you need to plan your trip to Armenia accordingly in terms of how many days you wish to spend in Armenia. A long trip to this place will let you explore everything about Armenia.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Armenia

While on the trip to Armenia, you may have some questions about these places in terms of attractions, safe travel, etc. We have mentioned here most frequently asked questions along with the answers to match some of your queries.

What is popular in Armenia?

Well, Armenia is popular for accommodating snow-capped Mount Ararat, which is popularized as the principal national symbol of the country. The country is also popular for the longest ropeway, ancient cuisine, mountain mineral water, and more.

Is Armenia a beautiful country to travel to?

Yes, Armenia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Visiting here lets you explore the breath-taking natural sights, taste a variety of cuisines, and engage with history.

Is Armenia expensive to travel?

No, Armenia is an affordable tourist destination as only limited numbers of tourists flock here. So, you can easily find the best hotels here at an affordable rate, which is approximately INR 718/- per night – even if you opt for a luxury hotel, you have to spend a maximum of up to INR 7175/-.

What is the best time to visit Armenia?

You can visit Armenia from late May to early June. During these months, the weather condition of this place is quite pleasant and makes tourists feel relieved.

How many days are sufficient to explore Yerevan?

3 days are sufficient to explore Yerevan and enjoy your journey there. So, you should plan your Armenia trip accordingly.

Do you need a visa to travel to Armenia?

Only the US citizens are allowed to travel to Armenia for a maximum of 180 days every year. If they need to stay here for more than 180 days, they need to apply for a residency permit.

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Asif Anwar Alig is Co-Founder cum Editor-in-Chief at www.seocontentindia.in. He formerly served as an Executive Producer at ETV; Editorial Coordinator at Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, India; Media Specialist at Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Saudi Arabia; and Assistant Professor in the Saudi Ministry of Education for two decades.

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13 of best things to do in Armenia

Armenia is a small but charming country with a rich and robust culture. Not many other countries have such a long, laced history as Armenia. However, in Armenia, tourism is still taking its first steps and slowly becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination.

When planning to travel to Armenia , one must remember that the country is in its early stages of development and not ready for tourists. The roads are rough, transportation is often hard to navigate, and many places only speak Armenian or Russian, which makes communication harder. But, like many other things in life, difficult things are the most rewarding! If you don’t mind these (or actually enjoy them), visiting Armenia is a must !

If you are asking yourself: is it safe to travel to Armenia? In our opinion: Yes, it is. Despite being still relatively poor, Armenia feels like a safe country, and the Armenians are usually very welcoming.

What is Armenia famous for?

In this article, we assembled the 10 best places to go in Armenia collected during our travel to Armenia. Despite the difficulties with traveling within Armenia, the country is relatively small, so most of these attractions can be covered in a few days.

Nonetheless, some of the best places to visit in Armenia are isolated, particularly the old monasteries.

Page Contents

Best things to do in Armenia

Visit yerevan.

Yerevan is the capital and by far the biggest city in Armenia and usually the place where your travel to Armenia starts and/or ends. Yerevan is very different from the rest of the country.

Particularly the city center, sometimes it looks like an entirely different country. It’s much more developed and rich, as if all the country’s money has been invested only in Yerevan.

Yerevan’s town center is home to landmarks like Republic Square, the Opera House, the beautiful gardens, the 18th century Blue Mosque, most museums, and the famous cascade complex.

Walking around is the easiest and best way to get immersed in Yerevan’s culture, history, and cuisine. Yerevan is a big city, but it’s perfectly possible to walk around its city center. By wandering around, you’ll be able to see the history of Yerevan, from ancient times to the Soviet and post-Soviet periods.

You can also enjoy Yerevan’s modern side, with some contemporary architecture, trendy restaurants, and coffee shops. The coffee shop culture in Yerevan seems to grow, with esplanades popping everywhere, which will feel like a piece of heaven after a few hours of walking in summer.

Climbing the Cascade

Climbing the Cascade to see the city’s monument to Soviet victory in WWII is a must. Moreover, the views of the city while climbing the stairs are breathtaking! On clear days you can even see Mount Ararat.

It’s difficult to define the Cascade; it’s not only a monument or building. We would call it an urban decoration in the form of a staircase connecting the city center with a higher residential area.

The Cascade is formed by multiple levels adorned with fountains and modernist sculptures gracefully connected by monumental staircases. The stairs themselves are decorated with several tiers of grass, flowers, and bushes, reminding us of a Babylon garden. Altogether it looks like an enormous spectacular modernist sculpture.

Republic Square

The Republic Square is a beautiful square that took nearly 50 years to complete, though most of it was built in the 1950s. Yerevan is often dubbed the pink city, and Square is easy to understand why in the Republic.

You can easily spend a few hours at Republic Square, which is home to numerous landmarks, like the History Museum, the National Gallery, and the Government House. It is worth a visit both during the day and at night when it is all lit up.

Pro tip: From early spring to late fall, a fantastic fountain and light show is accompanied by some great music of various genres. You can really have an excellent time here with people watching and listening to music.

Fly in the wings of Tatev

The wings of Tatev and the Tatev monastery are probably the best place to visit in Armenia. Or at least it was our favorite. They are located close to the city of Goris, 250 km from Yerevan. While there are day tours from Yerevan , we believe it’s a very long journey, and it’s much better to do it in 2 days and be able to take your time.

The Wings of Tatev is considered to be the longest reversible cableway in the world, with 5752 meters. The full journey takes about 12 remarkable minutes over the ravine of the Vorotan River.

It’s the shortest, fastest, and most dramatic route to the Tatev Monastery. Riding the cableway lets, you fly over the Vorotan Gorge and experience unforgettable views 320 meters above the ground.

Besides building the world’s longest reversible tramway, the region is creating a net of hostels, reviving local food traditions, touristic paths, and museums created.

Visit the Tatev Monastery

The monastery of Tatev is the destination of the tramway and is considered the pearl of Armenian medieval architecture. It was a major cultural center with a library, a scriptorium, and one of the most famous medieval universities.

Built during the 9th century, this historical monument is one of Armenia’s oldest and most famous monastery complexes. It played a central role in the country’s history as a vital scholastic, enlightenment, and spiritual center throughout medieval times.

Besides its historical importance, visiting the Tatev Monastery offers an opportunity to see the incredible Vorotan Gorge and how amazingly located these medieval monasteries were. Here you will notice the mighty fortress walls upon massive cliffs making it almost impregnable. Other important features you will notice during your visit are:

• The Swinging Pillar, which is a unique medieval structure;
• An 18th-century oil mill with stone grinders;
• Ancient frescoes by European masters.
• The tomb of Grigor Tatevatsi, the last saint of the Armenian Church;

Click here to check out a wonderful Tatev Monastery tour

Discover Karahunj Observatory, aka Zorats Karer

Of all the tourist places in Armenia we have listed here, this is probably the least known and least visited. However, this doesn’t mean you should skip it. Zorats Karer is located in the south of Armenia, 4 km from the town of Sisian, and it’s ideally located as a stop when visiting the Tatev.

The Karahunj observatory is known as the Armenian Stonehenge however you should note that it is much older and cruder. It is estimated that it was built around 3500 BC, making it 5500 years old and considered one of the most ancient megalithic constructions in the world!

The site is rich with stone settings, burial costs, and standing stones – Menhirs. We really appreciated freely walking around the site, enjoying the views and the ancient stones.

Please note that the real Zorats Karer is on the right side of the road (direction to Sisian), on the left, there is a reproduction of what has been believed that the site looked like. Don’t be fooled and think the site is only the one on the left.

Enjoy the view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap

Mount Ararat is the national symbol and a central figure in Armenian history and culture! The problem? Mount Ararat is in Turkey… Despite this, you can see the Mount from Armenia, and arguably the best place to look at it is in Khor Virap. The monastery is only 30 km from Yerevan and easily accessible, with a highway passing very close to it.

The iconic location at the foot of Ararat is the main tourist attraction. According to Genesis 8:4, Noa’s Ark came to rest “on the mountains of Ararat.

So Mount Ararat is a mythical place for Christians, particularly for the Armenian Orthodox Church. There’s also kind of a tradition of releasing doves from Khor Virap, with the hope they will fly to Mount Ararat, reminded of the Bible’s story.

Khor Virap’s notability as a monastery and pilgrimage site is attributed to the fact that “Gregory the Illuminator” was initially imprisoned here for 14 years by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Saint Gregory subsequently became the king’s religious mentor, and they led the proselytizing activity in the country. In the year 301, Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation.

Click here to book your tour to Khor Virap

However, as a tourist and mountain lover, the imposing and mythical Mount Ararat was our main attraction. Unfortunately, the day was slightly foggy, making the view less impressive and ruining the pictures…

Drive the Selim Pass, now known as Vardenyats Pass

We strongly suggest you drive through Selim Pass and maybe stop and visit the 14th-century old Caravanserai of the Silk Road, built by an Orbelian family to accommodate weary travelers and their animals as they crossed from, or into, the mountainous Vayots Dzor region. This is the best-preserved Caravanserai of all Armenia.

The Selim pass in central Armenia was one of the most impressive mountain passes on the silk route. The road goes to an altitude of 2410 meters above sea level. Usually, roads in Armenia are quite bad, but this portion was smooth.

The road encompasses miles of stunning views through twisty hairpin corners, high elevations, and steep grades, making driving a true pleasure. The winding mountain road and hairpin turn provide breathtaking views of the steep, rocky hillsides and lead to the highland steppe just beyond the pass.

Nowadays, the Pass provides access to Sevan Lake.

Find Garni Temple

Garni Temple is an ionic temple located in the village of Garni. It is the best-known structure and symbol of pre-Christian Armenian and the only remaining pagan temple in Armenia! It was built in conformity with the canons of classical Greek architecture and is very similar to the well-known Temple of Athena in Greece.

Note that the original temple was built in the 3rd century BC and destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century. However, it was rebuilt in the 1970s using most of the original stones! The temple stands on a hill with vineyards surrounded by a beautiful mountain gorge on three sides.

Like many other Armenian tourist attractions, The Garni temple is a point of interest by itself, but also because of its amazing surroundings, usually beautiful mountain ranges and impressive gorges!

Click here to book your Garni Temple tour

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Geghard Monastery

According to UNESCO , Geghard Monastery contains several “churches and tombs, most of which are cut into the rock, which illustrates the very peak of Armenian medieval architecture. The complex of medieval buildings is set into a landscape of great natural beauty, surrounded by towering cliffs at the entrance to the Azat Valley “.

Geghard monastery takes the integration with nature to a whole new level, a big part of the monastery is entirely dug out of the cliff rocks, while others are elaborate structures, with both architecturally complex walled sections and rooms deep inside the cliff. Together they make Geghard monastery quite unique and have a delightful view.

It represents the peak of medieval Armenian architectural achievement and comprises a walled complex set in stunning mountain scenery in the upper Azat Valley.

Geghard both accents and rivals the natural beauty all around it. The Geghard monastery and the Garni temple are close to each other, meaning they can and should be visited together from Yerevan.

Click here to book your Garni + Geghard day trip

8. Make a side trip to Noravank Monastery

Noravank Monastery was built in the 13th-century, about 122 km from Yerevan, on the edge of the narrow winding gorge of the river Amaghu, close to Yeghegnadzo.

This gorge is known for its tall, sheer, brick-red cliffs directly across from the monastery. The Monastery has been included in the UNESCO heritage list since 2002.

Armenians really knew where to build their monuments; they are great tourist attractions not only because of their architecture and history but also for their harmony with the surrounding nature.

When visiting Noravank Monastery you really should notice two important features. First, don’t forget to go to the second floor by way of a narrow stone-made staircase jutting out from the face of the building to take a closer look at the dome.

Finally, you should also notice the several exquisitely carved khachkars (stone crosses) and khachkar fragments on the south side of the old church. A Khachkar is a carved memorial stele bearing a cross, and often with additional motifs such as rosettes, interlaces, and botanical motifs. These hold a special place in Armenian history, worshipped by pilgrims from the beginning of their tradition.

Click here to buy your tour of Noravank Monastery

Sevan Lake is the biggest lake in Armenia, and the Caucasus Region occupies 5% of all Armenian Territory. This natural landmark in Armenia is located at 1900 meters altitude making it one of the biggest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world.

Lake Sevan is the biggest fish source in Armenia. Hence if you like to fish here, you have a great opportunity, particularly trout and crayfish. There are several restaurants on the shore of the lake for you to choose from.

Armenia is landlocked, so this lake is their best chance to go to the beach. However, we didn’t find the beaches appealing, and you should note that being at 1900 meters of altitude means that it’s significantly colder than other places.

There are several Monasteries on the lake’s shores, the most interesting one being Sevanavank Monastery. The monastery is on top of the peninsula hill and is built of crude black stone on the exterior, although, in our opinion, clearly not as impressive as the others referred to here.

Try the Armenian food

The base ingredients of Armenian cuisine are lamb, eggplant, and lavash. Lavash is a soft, thin, unleavened flatbread made in a cylindrical clay oven called tandoor. This bread is typical in the south Caucasus region, Armenia , Azerbaijan, Turkey , and Iran.

“The preparation, meaning, and appearance of traditional bread as an expression of culture in Armenia” is inscribed in UNESCO’S intangible cultural heritage.

Armenian cuisine was influenced by European and Levantine (the region in Eastern Mediterranean) cuisine. The most traditional dishes are Harissa (porridge made of wheat and meat), Khash  (slow-cooked meat or lamb), and Dolma (minced meat wrapped in grape leaves).

Our favorite dishes were dolma, Zhingyalov hats, and khorovats. Although it is very cheap to eat in Armenia, it is a bit difficult to find places to eat on the go. At least when compared with its neighbor Georgia .

Besides the food, Armenia has a strong tradition of wine. It is known as the cradle of winemaking. We aren’t appreciators, but for those who enjoy good wine, Armenia has plenty of good ones, as has  Georgia .

Our Recommended Armenia Travel Guide Books

Armenia: with Nagorno Karabagh (Bradt Travel Guide) – if you are only traveling to Armenia!

Alternatively, Lonely Planet Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan (Travel Guide) – if you plan to travel to more than one of the Caucasus countries.

You may be wondering if you should travel to Armenia or Georgia . In this post, we explored and compared everything about these two small Caucasus countries.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Armenia

Armenia is one of the most ancient countries in the world, full of rich history and beautiful landscapes. This undiscovered country of the Caucasus holds gorgeous natural scenery and hidden-away towns just waiting for visitors to explore. If you are planning a trip here, here are some of the most beautiful places to add to your itinerary.

A visit to Armenia isn’t complete without traveling to its capital – Yerevan . The city is full of interesting places to visit and areas to explore. Stroll down the streets, climb up the Cascade for panoramic views, visit the many museums, and indulge in local cuisine. The perfect geographical location of the city also makes it possible to schedule various day trips from here.

Located only a 30-minute drive from Yerevan, the city of Echmiadzin plays an important role in the history of the country. Armenia was one of the first countries to make Christianity its official religion, and the cathedral was built on the site of an ancient pagan temple to commemorate the event.

Noravank Monastery

When traveling throughout Armenia, you’ll notice that the country is rich in monasteries, and Noravank is one of the most impressive ones in the whole country. Smooth brick-red hills shield the monastery, which was built in the 13th century. If you are short on time and undecided which site to see while planning your trip here, do choose Noravank.

Noravank Gorge

Another magnificent place to explore is the Noravank Gorge located in Vayots Dzor Province. Wander through the captivating caves that are home to ancient wine-making utensils and prehistoric shoes dating from the Chalcolithic Period. Moreover, the area is famous for a wide variety of birds, including vultures and eagles, as well as striking rocky walls that change colors according to the time of the day.

Lake Sevan is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the most beautiful places to visit. The lake serves both as a cultural and leisure site. It’s surrounded by many gorgeous monasteries for you to explore, but if you are looking for a more relaxing getaway, head to some of the many beaches along the lakeshore. As the country doesn’t have a coastline, Sevan is a good place to sunbathe, swim, or windsurf.

Gyumri is the second largest city in the country, and it is worth planning a visit here. After exploring city life, head to the Black Fortress for picturesque views of Gyumri, and don’t forget to visit the Mother Armenia statue situated nearby. Museum lovers will also enjoy their time here, as the city is home to some of the most significant cultural institutions in the country such as the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of National Architecture and Urban Life, the Sergey Merkurov House Museum, and the Aslamazyan Sisters House Museum.

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Amberd Fortress

Amberd Fortress is one of the most astonishing places in the country to explore. The name translates into English as ‘the fortress in the clouds’, and the view from here is stunning. Dating back to the 7th century, the fortress is about an hour’s drive from Yerevan. However, note that during the winter months, snowfall can block the road towards the fortress.

Geghard Monastery

The Upper Azat Valley is home to Geghard Monastery, another incredible site in the country. Even though the main chapel was built 800 years ago, the history of the monastery goes back to the 4th century. Founded by Gregory the Illuminator, it is believed to have housed one of the spears used during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Perhaps the best place to enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Ararat is from the Khor Virap Monastery. The area plays a significant role in Armenia’s history, as Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 14 years before curing King Trdat III of a disease. Afterward, the King converted to Christianity and determined the religious future of the country.

History buffs will like Dvin, the oldest city and a former capital of medieval Armenia. Founded in the around 330, the city stood still until it was destroyed during the Jalal Ad-Din’s and Mongols’ invasions in the middle of the 13th century. You can wander through the ruins of the city and admire the archeological findings. In addition, the city also has modern sights to explore, such as St. Harutyun Church, which was built 18 years ago.

Tatev Monastery and Shaki Waterfall

Tatev Monastery is another unforgettable place to visit in Armenia. The drive is a bit long, around four hours from Yerevan, but the scenery is worth it. The medieval monastery located at the end of a deep gorge and is surrounded by marvelous mountainous landscapes. You need to take a cable car to get to the monastery, taking another 20 minutes but offering fantastic panoramic views.

Selim Pass used to be part of the famous Silk Road that linked Asia to Europe. Located between Yerevan and Lake Sevan, the site is full of ancient caravanserai that still stands intact. Caravanserais used to be complexes that encompassed a meeting point, a hotel and a shopping place for the merchants traveling along the road.

If you are looking for a popular spa destination, travel to Jermuk , famous for 40 thermal springs. The healing properties of the mineral water and the mild climate attract many locals. Visit the Gallery of Water for free tastings of the mineral water and Jermuk Waterfall, the second largest waterfall in the country.

The Syunik region is home to another attractive site – the cave town of Khndzoresk, where people used to live up until the 1950s. The site is a unique settlement where time seems to have stopped. A new bridge was built to connect the two parts of the village, from where you can enjoy magnificent views of the area.

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Ten places in Armenia you should not miss

Armenia ( map ) is an ancient country situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea. This small country is known for its 3,500-year-old history, rich culture and amazing mountainous landscapes. Each year, an increasing number of people visit Armenia to explore this interesting land, immerse themselves in centuries-old customs and traditions, learn about its colourful history and admire the spectacular scenery. The locals are warm and hospitable and do their best to make visitors feel welcome in their beloved motherland. There are lots of things to do in Armenia for visitors so you can easily spend at least a week there. If you’re planning a visit, below are ten places in Armenia you should not miss and suggestions for thing to do.

Top places to visit in Armenia

1. The city centre of ancient Yerevan

The capital of Armenia, Yerevan, is a cozy city famous for its beautiful architecture. The city has a centuries-old history – according to the cuneiform inscription of Urartian King Argishti, it was built in 782 BC, which shows that Yerevan is older than Rome!

For those who are in Yerevan for the first time, we recommend visiting its centre known for its unique architecture masterpieces, cozy cafés, restaurants, and beautiful parks. The heart of the capital is formed by the Republic Square, designed by the famous Armenian architect Alexander Tamanyan in 1924. The square is framed by important buildings such as the History Museum of Armenia and the Government House.

If you cross the road from the square you will find the Northern Avenue . It is the most modern and high-end part of the capital with its fashionable boutiques and shops, office buildings and luxury hotels. The avenue leads to another must-visit attraction of Yerevan – the Opera and Ballet Theater . It occupies an important place in the cultural life of Armenians and offers an extensive repertoire with its national opera, ballet and excellent symphonic music.

You can also opt for a half-day guided tour of Yerevan to visit the most important attractions.

2. Echmiadzin

The city of Echmiadzin is located about 20 km from Yerevan (30-minutes by car). A tour of Armenia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Echmiadzin. Armenia is the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as a state religion (in 301 AD) and the Echmiadzin Cathedral was built to commemorate this. Built on the site of an ancient pagan temple, Echmiadzin is the religious centre of all Armenians. Perhaps the easiest way to visit Echmiadzin is to join a tour from Yerevan .

3. Tatev Monastery

It takes four hours (253 km) to get to the monastery of Tatev from Yerevan by car but it’s really worth the effort! A visit to Tatev is one of the most popular things to do in Armenia for visitors. The monastery is a majestic medieval (9th century AD) structure located on the edge of a deep gorge and surrounded by amazing mountainous landscapes. In order to get to the monastery, you can take the cable-car (listed in the Guinness Book of Records as being the longest in the world). You will glide over the deep gorge for about 20 minutes and enjoy the fantastic scenery. Join a day tour from Yerevan to Tatev or a two-day southern Armenia tour that includes the Tatev monastery.

4. Lake Sevan

Sevan (66 kms north-east of Yerevan) is one of the most popular towns in Armenia because of the stunning Lake Sevan. The lake is especially popular in the summer amongst both locals and tourists. At 1,900m, Lake Sevan is also considered to be one of the highest lakes in the world and sometimes it seems as if the azure waters are about to touch the sky. Its beauty has earned the lake the nickname ‘the pearl of Armenian nature’. While at the lake, you can have a BBQ, cruise on a yacht or catamaran or simply relax and take in the amazing scenery. Sevan is also known for its fish “ishxan” (Armenian trout), so once in Sevan don’t miss the opportunity to order delicious fish dishes at one of the local cafés or restaurants. Join a tour to Lake Sevan .

5. Selim Pass

On the way from Sevan to Yerevan, you can stop to enjoy the view of one of the most beautiful natural sights of Armenia: the Selim Pass. This pass was once the part of the famous Silk Road that linked Europe with the Far East. The ancient caravanserai (a resting place for merchants on the Silk Road) still stands till this day. The view of the verdant valley below is simply breathtaking.

Jermuk is one of the most popular spa towns in Armenia because of its healing mineral waters and mild climate. The town has more than 40 thermal springs! In Jermuk, you can visit the Gallery of Water for free tastings of the healing mineral waters. And don’t forget to visit the most popular attraction – Jermuk Waterfall, which is the second largest waterfall in Armenia. The water tumbles down from the height of about 70m. This day tour from Yerevan brings you to five spectacular sites including Jermuk Waterfall.

7. Karahunj

In the Syunik region located about 200km from Yerevan, you’ll find one of the oldest and most popular megalithic sites of Armenia called Karahunj or Zorats Karer (‘army of stones’). It is located on a plateau at an altitude of 1,770m and consists of more than 200 stones each of which has holes 5cm in diameter. This construction remains a mystery for scientists who have different versions concerning its origins and use – the most popular version states that the construction dates back to the 6th century BC and served as an observatory for star-watching.

8. The cave city of Khndzoresk

In the same region of Syunik, there is another attraction that’s popular among tourists: the old village of Khndzoresk. This is a unique settlement where time seems to stand still. The old part of the village is composed of huge caves where people lived until the 1950’s. A new bridge connects the two parts of the village and the views from the bridge are quite literally breathtaking.

9. The symphony of stones

In the Kotayk region of Armenia, there is a beautiful canyon called Garni that’s famous for its unique basalt columns. As a result of geological processes, the stunning natural symmetrical columns were formed and these days, they’re aptly called ‘the symphony of stones’. Indeed, if you look at the canyon from afar, many of the cliffs resemble a giant organ!

10. Mamrot Qar waterfall

In addition to these popular sights, there are lots of less-discovered ones that are really worth visiting. Among them are the enchanting waterfalls ‘Mamrot Qar’ or ‘Zontikner’ (umbrellas). This interesting natural site is situated in Nagorno-Karabakh – the region in the eastern part of Armenia. The deep-water source originates in the Jrduz canyon, forming ever-flowing waterfalls in the form of a huge umbrella, covered with moss. This impressive natural monument is a sight that shouldn’t be missed.

These are just some of the many fascinating places in Armenia for travellers to visit. You can opt to travel independently and explore the country on your own. Alternatively, you can choose one of many Armenia tours of varying lengths to see this magnificent country.

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13 Responses

wow! looking at at this place is a breathtaking. hoping to visit toward the end of 2021.

[…] to Keith Jenkins, from Velvet Escape, ten notable places to visit in Armenia […]

[…] Source: Velvetescape […]

Armenia is so stunning! I really like your photos! I visited briefly a while ago but I can’t wait to come back and see more. Especially the Tatev Monastery is high on my list, just gorgeous!

What a beautiful country is Armenia. It is in my bucket list for 2017 and i have emotional connection to this place. My boyfriend has relatives escaped during the war and they all are so wonderful people that i can not wait to taste the local spirit!

Thanks so much for your additional tips!

Best regards, Keith

[clicked too soon!] One final place, near Armavir, is the Metsamor Museum. Metsamor itself was a metal-working center thought to be from 3500 BC, but with an astrological platform now surprisingly dated to 5500 BC. The platform it self is at a weird angle, with lots of ancient carvings, 100 yards behind the Museum.

The Metsamor Museum, though is worth the trip to this old village area. Outside among the lilacs are rows of fertility phalluses, some seven feet high. Behind the Museum are rows on ancient Cyclopean Walls, 2500 BC ones interesting with newer 1500 BC ones, and rows of fossilized mud rows that used to be houses.

There are blocks stacked like cobblestones in cave-like underground structures, which are compressed animal bones (calcium) used to .purify metal when smelting by absorbing impurities; they were buried for a year underground to age enough to eliminate poisonous toxicity when fresh. On the 2nd floor of the museum, there are huge pots in rows on display, some glazed and some very primitive from 3000 BC, all recovered from the field in back or nearby.

But in the cordoned off basement vault, the protected treasures of carvings and Babylonian trade objects of gold and jewelry are kept in lit displays. As you go down the steps, there are skeletons still in the ground. This vault and its contents is not on usual display You make a donation of 10,000 dram/person (about $2.30) to have guide take you down and turn lights on! The museum is not supported by the state — they raise all funds for leaking roof repairs and $7 a week salaries from visitors — so be generous!

Selim Pass – Selim Caravanserai, 1370 AD, is just before topping out on the Selim Road. Well-preserved, and from the road above it, looking south, there is a great photo opportunity, with the caravanserai just below, the 22 switchbacks beyond, and a long series of peaks going off to the south.

Karahunj – If you wander around on this treeless site, there are also over a hundred neolithic tombs, and total of thirty stone circles. The usual dates I have seen are 3500 BC, 1700 BC for the newest tomb. There are more tombs on SE side of Sissian (county capital), also dated 2000-1500 BC. Researcher Paris Harouni published in early 2000’s a book claiming the stones were set up in 5500 BC, but his work is disputed,

Khndzoresk – I have been on this road four time from 2005 to 2013, and the cave village i see each time Is on the LEFT side of the road, going eastbound, the village of Tsegh, last town before the border with Artsakh (Nagorno Karabagh). I wish there were more details about where on that forty mile stretch of road that and on the RIGHT side Khndzoresk is located; much of that road falls away on the right side going east, but look forward to finding it. Among the most recommendable-but-hard-to-get-into places is in village of Areni, itself a neat place and center of wine growing. Above a restaurant on the Arpi River, exactly befor the turn to Noravank, is twelve foot high fence, blocking a cave, This is Areni Cave, with the oldest wine presses of human history, 500 years older than anything in Georgia.

I plan on visiting Armenia next year so now I’m doing my research. It’s such a shame very few people get to see this country, I myself wouldn’t have booked a trip if not for a friend that was born here and managed to convince me. I’m curious to see their traditional clothing, from what I’ve found online it’s breathtaking! Thanks for the tips, I added all these on my list, let’s just hope I manage to see as many places as possible.

Thanks Arpa! I’ve corrected that! 🙂

The fact about Yerevan says 782 AD it should be 782 BC. very interesting article.

Thank you Tashi! 🙂

Nice pics & Nice places.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Armenia: Explore Unforgettable Experiences

Situated down in the heart of the Caucasus, Armenia has a wealth of amazing experiences to offer all kinds of travellers. This interesting nation is a blend of old traditions and modern beauty, from colourful streets of Yerevan to the peaceful scenery of its mountainous areas. There are plenty of things to do in Armenia, like hiking through beautiful natural beauties, exploring centuries-old monasteries, and enjoying the country’s exquisite cuisine. Discovering top 10 Armenia things to do will help you capture spirit of this extraordinary place, where nature, culture, and history all coexist peacefully. Adventure, cultural immersion, or just a great getaway—there are plenty of things to do in Yerevan and beyond that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

For every traveller, historical and beautiful nation of Armenia has an infinite number of interesting sights and experiences to offer. Among the many things to see in Armenia the incredible beauty of the Caucasus Mountain, peaceful Lake Sevan, and historic monasteries located on sheer cliffs are all must-see locations.  Lively capital of Yerevan, located in the centre of nation, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites. There is an extensive number of things to see in Yerevan that showcase the city’s unique fusion of modernity and heritage, from the famous Cascade Complex to the energetic Republic Square. When looking for things to do in Yerevan, Armenia, don’t pass up the opportunity to take in the lively art scene, indulge in delectable cuisine, and walk through its quaint narrow streets brimming with vitality and history.

Armenia offers the ideal fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a destination full of varied experiences to suit needs of each kind of traveller. Among the best Armenia things to do are to explore the historic monasteries set in beautiful settings, indulge in authentic Armenian cuisine, and unearth hidden treasures in quaint villages. There’s no shortage of things to do in Yerevan, the energetic city, from exploring world-class museums and galleries to taking advantage of active café culture and nightlife. There are much Yerevan things to do, a city that enthrals with its rich history and modern beauty. Some of the must-see locations are the Cascade Complex, the Armenian Genocide Museum, and the busy Vernissage Market.

Discovering Armenia has never been simpler because to numerous travel packages that highlight the nation’s beautiful natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and interesting past. Armenia Holiday Packages provide carefully selected itineraries that include trips to historic monasteries, amazing landscapes, and energetic towns like Yerevan, whether you’re searching for a cultural immersion or an exciting retreat. Armenia Tour Packages guarantee a flawless and remarkable experience, enabling you to comfortably and easily explore the best of Armenia.

Here are the Top 10 Things to do in Armenia Explore Unforgettable Experiences:

1. immerse yourself in yerevan’s cultural vibrance:.

Republic Square

At Republic Square, begin your adventure right in the centre of Yerevan. Impressive structures like the Armenian Genocide Memorial and the National History Museum border this bustling region. In the evening, when the singing fountains dance to classical music, the square comes alive with colour and sound. The architecture of the square is a superb illustration of Soviet era building style, combining luxury and practicality.

Cascades Complex

It is essential to visit the Cascades Complex. This enormous stairwell is more than simply a staircase—it’s a vast outdoor museum, complete with sculptures and fountains. Reach the summit for amazing views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat’s snow-capped summits in the distance. The Cafesjian Centre for the Arts, which features modern art in a beautiful setting, is also located within the property.

2. Discover the Ancient Temple of Garni:

Garni Temple

As a reminder of Armenia’s pre-Christian past, the Garni Temple is devoted to Mihr, the ancient sun god. Constructed in the first century AD, this Hellenistic temple is notable for its remarkably maintained Greco-Roman architecture. Discover the neighbourhood’s highlights, such as the bathhouse from the first century with its beautiful mosaic flooring and the adjacent Garni Gorge, which is well-known for its unusual basalt column formations.

3. Explore the Rock-Cut Wonders of Geghard Monastery:

Geghard Monastery

The UNESCO-designated Geghard Monastery is set into the cliffs of the Azat River Gorge. The monastery, which dates back to the fourth century, is well-known for its rock-cut chapels and cathedrals. The location is a peaceful spot to explore because of its natural beauty and architectural wonders. Don’t pass up the opportunity to feel the spirituality of the area with the added audio element of the local monks’ eerie chants.

4. Relax by the Serene Lake Sevan:

Sevan Peninsula

Freshwater Lake Sevan, sometimes called the “Jewel of Armenia,” is renowned for its breathtaking blue waters and the surrounding rocky terrain. Sevanavank Monastery, which provides expansive views of the lake and the surroundings, is located on the Sevan Peninsula. Take an easy lakeside boat ride or visit the neighbourhood seafood restaurants that serve freshly caught fish.

5. Marvel at the Historical Significance of Khor Virap Monastery:

Khor Virap Monastery

One of the most important religious places in Armenia is Khor Virap Monastery, which is situated against the backdrop of Mount Ararat. It was founded in the fourth century and served as the jail where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was held captive before to his conversion of King Tiridates III to Christianity. The monastery is situated in a prime area for historical contemplation and taking in the amazing views of the famous Mount Ararat.

6. Stroll Through the Charming Town of Dilijan:

Dilijan, also referred to as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” is a charming town surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. Explore its quaint streets, where the natural beauty of the area melds with traditional Armenian architecture. To learn more about the historical and cultural legacy of the town, visit the Dilijan Museum. The town is also the starting point for hiking and other outdoor activities in the beautiful Dilijan National Park.

7. Uncover the Mysteries of Erebuni Fortress:

Erebuni Fortress

Erebuni Fortress, which dates to 782 BC, provides an intriguing look into Armenia’s prehistoric history. King Argishti, I constructed the stronghold, which served as an important military and administrative hub. From the fortress’s vantage points, explore the ruins and artefacts to gain an understanding of the early Urartian civilisation and take in expansive views of modern Yerevan.

8. Reflect at the Armenian Genocide Memorial:

Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

The Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex honours those who perished in the 1915 Armenian Genocide. The location has an everlasting flame, a museum, and a moving monument. Through exhibits and multimedia presentations, the museum offers a thorough history of the genocide, making it a profoundly moving experience that is crucial to understanding Armenian history and resiliency.

9. Experience the Natural Beauty of Noravank:

Noravank Gorge

Famous for its beautiful red rock formations and dramatic scenery is Noravank Gorge. Particularly around sunset, the unique geology of the area produces a dramatic visual contrast against the sky. See the historically significant and ornately designed Noravank Monastery, which dates back to the 12th century. Because it has so many trails and overlooks, the gorge is also a fantastic place for trekking and photography.

10. Indulge in Wine Tasting in Areni:

Areni Wine Region

The Vayots Dzor region’s Areni is known for its long-standing winemaking customs. Numerous wineries in the region provide a variety of Armenian wines for tasting, some of which are produced from historic grape varietals. Experience the rich agricultural legacy of the area while tasting wines in a beautiful setting while touring nearby farms and learning about traditional winemaking techniques.

Conclusion:

As your trip to Armenia comes to an end, you’ll discover that this tiny but diversified nation never fails to wow with its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural history, and kind people. Things to do in Armenia has an extensive list of activities that are sure to leave you with lasting memories, whether you chose to walk through the beautiful countryside, experience the dynamic city of Yerevan, or wonder at the historic monasteries. The top ten Yerevan things to do and the vast number of things to see in Armenia present a place where natural beauty and history collide at every turn. Accept spirit of exploration and let Armenia’s remarkable experiences serve as the basis for your upcoming travels.

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