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Armenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 4, 2023

Straddling the divide between Asia and Europe , Armenia might be one of the final travel frontiers left on the planet for adventurous backpackers. Visiting Armenia isn’t often on a traveler’s to-do list, despite its beautiful snowy mountain peaks and many perfectly preserved medieval monasteries.

But their loss is your gain as the country is virtually untouched by mass tourism.

Armenia’s history is complicated and often tragic, marked with countless years of warfare and the infamous Armenian Genocide in which the Ottoman government murdered 1.5 million Armenians in the early 1900s.

Learn more about the country’s past by visiting the many historical monuments and religious structures scattered around the country, including the 4th-century Etchmiadzin Cathedral and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni.

Armenia’s dramatic landscape of jagged mountains and deep, rugged valleys — especially in the Geghama mountain range — is perfect for trekking, biking, and off-roading.

Moreover, Armenians love chatting with visitors. You don’t have to try hard to meet the locals here as they’re going to want to know why you are visiting since so few people do!

This travel guide to Armenia will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Armenia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. See Mount Ararat

This dormant volcano is technically a part of Turkish territory and is believed to be the final resting spot of Noah’s Ark. While you can’t hike the mountain from Armenia, you can certainly admire it up close from the Khor Virap monastery, located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Yerevan!

2. Visit Yerevan

Known as Armenia’s “Pink City” for the rose-colored volcanic material used for much of the city’s buildings, Yerevan is home to wide tree-lined boulevards, busy town squares, and a thriving cafe culture. Try the city’s famous dark coffee; it’s rich, sweet, and packed with caffeine.

3. Go Skiing in Tsaghkadzor

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Armenia has become a hit with extreme sports lovers. During the winter, Armenia is transformed into a ski and snowboarding haven. Tsaghkadzor ski resort in the Marmarik river valley is the most popular place to go. A day ticket costs 12,000 AMD.

4. Visit Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is easily one of the most scenic destinations to visit in Armenia, boasting wide swatches of forested hills and green meadows home to thousands of plant species. Hike the well-marked trails to springs and monasteries or spend some time at scenic Parz Lake.

5. Visit the Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the genocide that took place in Armenia between 1915-1922 at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Inside is a collection of photographs, documents, newspaper reports, and films curated to tell the story of this tragic event in Armenian history. Admission is free but donations are welcomed.

Other Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. take the cable car to tatev monastery.

This medieval monastery was built between the 9th-13th centuries and is unique thanks to its position on the edge of a deep gorge. The inside is covered in 10th-century frescoes and vaulted stone ceilings, while the exterior has many pointed domes and is surrounded by tall stone fortress walls that drop off immediately into the gorge below. There are stunning views and photography spots all around the complex as well. The only way to visit the monastery is by taking the cable car across a 5,752-meter cableway (the longest in the world) suspended 320 meters (1,049 feet) above the River Vorotan. The cable car ride takes around 15 minutes, and a round-trip ticket is 5,000 AMD. Tatev is about 3.5 hours from Yerevan.

2. Visit Shikahogh State Reserve

Shikahogh State Reserve is the second largest forest in Armenia and is home to some diverse wildlife including leopards, bears, wild goats, and vipers. There are lush mountain hiking trails (although they are not always well maintained) that lead you to Iron Age tombs, medieval churches and monasteries, waterfalls, crystal-clear springs, and even abandoned towns. The 11-kilometer (7-mile) route from Mount Khustup to Shishkert village is tough but incredibly scenic.

3. Swim in Lake Sevan

Also known as the “Armenian Sea,” Lake Sevan is a massive lake (it covers 5% of the country) located high in the Caucasus mountains. Known for its incredible biodiversity and stunningly stark landscapes, Lake Sevan is a popular destination for domestic and foreign travelers alike. Come here to relax in one of the lakeside villages, visit medieval monasteries, and swim in the lake (if it’s warm enough or you’re brave enough!). The lake is so high in altitude (1,900 meters above sea level) that if you sit on the riverbank, it almost looks like the river is running into the sky. You can wild camp here for free as well. Lake Sevan is around 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Yerevan. The most common way to get here is by marshrutka (minibus), which takes around an hour.

4. See Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is a World Heritage-listed complex named from the lance that pierced Christ’s side at the crucifixion. The buildings are partially carved out of the mountains and surrounded by cliffs along the Azat River Gorge. Inside the 13th-century Avazan Chapel is a sacred spring that runs through the monastery, and the original reason for the founding of the area as a religious site back in the 4th century. Today, visitors fill up bottles to take the holy water home. Admission is free.

5. Visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral

Located only 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Yerevan, no visit to Armenia would be complete without seeing the Echmiadzin Cathedral. The cathedral was built following the country’s adoption of Christianity in 301 CE, making it the first country in the world to do so. The cathedral is the oldest in Armenia and is often cited as the oldest cathedral in the world. The cathedral’s museum has some fascinating artifacts, including a supposed piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, the spear that pierced Jesus’ side, and a piece of Noah’s Ark. Admission to the museum is 1,500 AMD.

6. Explore Gyumri

The city of Gyumri is one of Armenia’s most ancient settlements, dating back nearly 3,000 years. Starting from the busy Vardanants Square at the center of town, walk to the Kumayri Historic District, a sort of open-air museum filled with historic buildings like the Sev Ghul fortress and the Paris Hotel (used as a maternity hospital during Soviet times). Be sure to visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life (1,000 AMD entry), which showcases life in the area from the 19th century to the 1920s, or the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum (300 AMD entry), with works from two sisters who helped bring equality to Armenian women through their art.

7. Experience the healing waters of Jermuk

With over 40 natural thermal springs, Jermuk is the most popular spa town in Armenia, with a variety of resort hotels and spas (rooms start at 15,000 AMD). Get a free sample of healing mineral water from the Gallery of Water, where natural mineral water flows into 5 different stone urns, each with different healing properties and temperatures (be careful as some are very hot). While you’re there, make sure you venture to the Jermuk waterfall, which, at 70 meters tall (230 feet), is Armenia’s second-largest waterfall. Jermuk is about 3 hours from Yerevan.

8. Visit the Army of Stones

Karahunj, otherwise known as Zorats Karer (or Army of Stones in English), is Armenia’s oldest and most popular megalithic site. Located at an altitude of 1,770 meters (5,800 feet) on a rocky plateau, no one knows how these 200 stones got here. Even stranger is the fact that each stone has 5-centimeter holes in it. There are many different theories on how and why the stones are here, but the most popular theory is that the site was constructed in the 6th century BCE for stargazing.

9. Take a wine tasting tour

With over 500 unique and native varieties almost unknown to the world outside Armenia, taking a wine tour is a must for any wine lover. In fact, the oldest wine cave in the world (it’s 6,000 years old!) is near Areni. Sadly, during Soviet rule, many of the wineries were shut down. It is only in the last decade that Armenia has begun to reconnect with its winemaking roots. Wine tours from Yerevan start from 37,000 AMD for a tour of one winery and go up to around 75,000 AMD for a full-day tour.

10. Go to the Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Museum-Reserve

This archaeological site encapsulates the ancient Erebuni Fortress, which dates to 782 BCE, a whole three decades before Rome was even established, and after which the city of Yerevan was named. The entire complex is now an outdoor museum, with an indoor component as well. The museum contains more than 12,000 artifacts offering insights into Armenia’s ancient history and the establishment of the city of Yerevan. You’ll also learn about what daily life was like in the palace of Argishti I, one of the greatest kings of ancient Urartu. Admission is 1,000 AMD or 2,500 AMD with a guide.

11. See Noravank

Built in the 13th century, legend has it that when the Mongols conquered Armenia hundreds of years ago, it was God himself that saved the Noravank monastery. Delicately carved stonework and religious reliefs (including depictions of God) decorate the three churches here. Unlike the many other Armenian monasteries that are located on top of mountains and gorges, Noravank is set on the floor of a deep valley, with towering red cliffs rising up on either side of the complex. Visiting the site is free, though the museum is 500 AMD. The monastery is around 122 kilometers (76 miles) from Yerevan.

Armenia Travel Costs

Accommodation – There are a limited number of hostels in Armenia and most of them are in the capital, Yerevan. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 5,000-7,500 AMD, while a bed in an 8-bed-dorm costs 3,000-4,000 AMD. A private double room in a hostel is around 10,000-15,000 AMD with a shared bathroom. Standard amenities include Wi-Fi and bedding. Free breakfast and shared kitchens are common as well (though not all hostels have them).

Camping is available around the country. For those not traveling with a tent, you can often rent them at the Tourist Information Centers. Wild camping is free, but if you prefer camping on a campsite, prices start at around 4,000 AMD per night for two people and a tent.

Budget hotels average around 8,000-9,850 AMD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and free breakfast is usually included.

Airbnb is available though the options are limited. Private rooms start around 10,000 AMD per night while entire homes/apartments average closer to 25,000 AMD.

Food – Armenia is a landlocked country with a long history of trade, meaning that Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European countries have all left their mark on the country’s cuisine.

Fresh and dried herbs create flavorful dishes, and common spices include black pepper, sumac, cumin, mint, and cinnamon. Staple vegetables include eggplant, cucumber, bell pepper, tomato, and onion. Legumes, especially chickpeas and lentils, are also used as central ingredients in many dishes. Pork, lamb, and beef are the most common meats. Though meat is predominant in the cuisine, because of the fasting periods in the Armenian Apostolic religion, there are many traditional dishes that are entirely plant-based as well.

Common dishes include a variety of cold salads, yogurt soups, boereg (filled pastry pies), bozbash (lamb stew), khorovats (grilled meat skewers), tolma (stuffed grape leaves), kyufta (a type of meatball), and harissa (a porridge that’s considered Armenia’s national dish). Traditional lavash bread, a flatbread made from wheat and baked in a clay oven, is integral to Armenian cuisine and is served with most meals.

Street food like shawarma or lahmajun (Armenian pizza) costs less than 1,000 AMD, and a glass of tan (a salty yogurt drink) shouldn’t be more than 300 AMD.

For an inexpensive meal at an Armenian restaurant, expect to pay around 1,250-2,750 AMD for traditional food like spa (an extra creamy soup), kyufta (meatballs), or Armenian cheese with basturma (dried meat with spices) wrapped in a piece of Armenian pita bread.

Higher-end or Western restaurants cost about 6,000-8,500 AMD per meal. Even Chinese takeout restaurants, normally a mainstay of the budget traveler, are more expensive than Armenian meals, costing at least 3,800 AMD for a dish.

In terms of drinks, expect to pay 600 AMD for a beer, 700 AMD for a glass of Armenian wine, 1,000-1,500 AMD for a cocktail, 800 AMD for a cup of Armenian coffee, and 1,200 AMD for a cappuccino.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries should cost around 12,000-16,000 AMD but, with food prices being so low, it’s better to eat street food and enjoy the food the country has to offer!

Backpacking Armenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of about 17,500 AMD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm (or camp), eat street food or at inexpensive restaurants, cook some of your meals, use local transportation (including some intercity buses), limit your drinking, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and museum visits.

On a mid-range budget of about 43,000 AMD, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb, eat any budget restaurant meal you want, enjoy a few drinks, take some taxis to get around, take intercity trains, and do more paid activities like ride the cable car to Tatev Monastery and do a winery tour.

On a “luxury” budget of about 77,000 AMD per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might pay less every day). We want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AMD.

Armenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Armenia isn’t going to break your bank. There are so many free activities here, especially if you’re enjoying the outdoors, that it’s hard to spend a lot. Throw in cheap food, beer, and accommodation, and you can really stretch your budget here. However, if you’re looking to lower your expenses even more, here are some ways to save money in Armenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Yerevan Free Walking Tour is a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Hitchhike and wild camp – If you really want to save money in Armenia, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to hitchhike. You will likely never wait long. Wild camping is also legal, and it is very common for friendly Armenians to invite you to their home for food so bring a tent when you visit.
• Cook your own meals – Some hostels here don’t include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, make sure you book accommodation that does so you can buy cheap groceries and cook some meals.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that can provide free accommodation and share their insider tips with you. It’s the best way to save money and meet locals.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t really safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your reliance on plastic bottles. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw because it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Armenia

There are very few hostels in Armenia, and the few they have are in Yerevan and Tsaghkadzor. My suggested places to stay are:

• Envoy Hostel (Yerevan)
• MGA Hostel and Tours (Yerevan)
• Kantar Hostel (Yerevan)
• Hostel Tsaghkadzor (Tsaghkadzor)

How to Get Around Armenia

Public transportation – Public transportation isn’t the best in Armenia. The public transport websites aren’t translated into English, so it is much better to ask at your hostels for guidance to help you use the local and intercity buses. In the cities, it is easy to walk from place to place.

Yerevan has five trolley bus routes with a ride costing around 50 AMD. There’s also a subway with one line and ten stations, and public buses. A one-way fare on the bus and subway is around 100 AMD.

If you’re flying into Zvartnots International Airport, you can reach the center of Yerevan by bus or taxi. Aerotaxi is the official airport taxi but be aware drivers often won’t turn on the meter, so you need to negotiate a price, which should be around 3,000 AMD. A bus is around 300 AMD.

Bus – Intercity transport in Armenia is best done by bus and minibus (marshrutka). Intercity buses are relatively inexpensive but navigating the bus stations can be tricky as English isn’t widely spoken. Ask in your hostel the day before for someone to help you work out which bus you need and then you will just have to look for that bus when you arrive at the station.

Bus fares average about 716 AMD per hour of travel, but even a short route can end up taking quite a while with lots of stops.

Trains – There are daily trains connecting Yerevan to Gyumri (3 hours), Yeraskh (1.5 hours), Araks (1 hour), Ararat (1 hour), and Hrazdan (1.5 hours). In the summer months, the Hrazdan line gets extended to Lake Sevan. One-way tickets cost between 3,500-12,500 AMD.

Train tickets to nearby cities outside of Armenia, such as Tbilisi, cost around 9,800-12,000 AMD for a one-way ticket. You can purchase tickets online at the official railway website, Railway.am .

The trains that run most regularly are slow trains that are Soviet-era relics, meaning they are uncomfortable and lack the usual amenities you might expect from trains. The express trains, however, are modern and air-conditioned. Unfortunately, these cost more and run less frequently.

Flying – There are only two international airports in Armenia so although air travel is possible, it is far from cost-effective. Often you don’t save much time due to layovers. A flight from Gyumri to Yerevan starts at 95,000 AMD. Only fly if you are short on time and flush with cash.

Car Rental – Driving is definitely the most convenient way to get around Armenia. Car rentals can sometimes be as low as 12,000 AMD per day, and the more days you book, the better the price. If you’re driving, make sure to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in advance as you’ll need one for any vehicle rental.

When to Go to Armenia

The best time to visit Armenia is at the beginning or end of summer (May-June or September-October). During these months, the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor explorations. The temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F) but be aware that it can be very rainy throughout May and thunderstorms are common.

Summers are hot, with temperatures soaring as high as 35°C (95°F). Things tend to cool down in the evenings, however, with a gentle mountain breeze providing some welcomed relief after a long, hot day.

If you are visiting for skiing, December is the best winter month for hitting the slopes. Temperatures drop below freezing, and the northern regions receive a lot of snowfall. Cities like Yerevan get a lot quieter during these months as everyone hides from the cold.

You don’t have to worry about inflated prices or crowds even during the summer peak season. Armenia isn’t a very touristy destination, and you often have whole sites all to yourself.

How to Stay Safe in Armenia

Armenia is a very safe country to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime here is rare.

There aren’t any specific scams to look out for either, though sometimes taxi drivers will try to overcharge you. You can avoid this by agreeing on a price before entering the taxi (ask your hotel/hostel staff for a price estimate if you’re not sure what to pay).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Petty theft and pickpocketing are rare but can occur so always keep your valuables (specifically your wallet and phone) secure and out of reach. This is especially important in crowds or on busy public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never accept drinks from strangers, don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk around intoxicated at night, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

There’s often political turmoil with neighbors so keep an eye out on that and avoid protests or demonstrations while in Armenia. Avoid the Nagorno-Karabakh region on the border with Azerbaijan due to armed conflict.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Armenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Armenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Armenia and continue planning your trip:

19 Easy Ways to Save Money in Armenia

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide // An Essential Break Down

 In an era where a single Google search will pull up thousands of blog posts and magazine worthy photos for any given destination, I was surprised at how few Armenia travel tips and guides I could find online. This posed a unique situation where we actually had to jump in feet first and really explore for ourselves. We divided the country in thirds, rented a car, and just drove. Of course, there was some trial and error, but this was one of the most exciting trips I’ve taken in a while.

In this complete Armenia travel guide, pick up some of the helpful tips we learned along our journey, discover the best time to visit, get an idea of how much things cost, what foods you have to try, plus much more.

BASIC ARMENIA TRAVEL INFORMATION

The ideal time for Armenia travel is late May to early June, or late September to early October.

RAINFALL November is the wettest month. March and April historically have a good amount of rain but the weather was beautiful (with no rain) when we were there in late March. HOTTEST/COLDEST MONTHS The hottest months are July and August, with highs in the 90’sF (around 35C). The coldest months are December to February, with highs in January topping 2F ( 35C) and lows dipping down to 19F (-7C). DAYLIGHT HOURS June and July have the longest amount daylight (around 13 hours), with December through February offering up only 7 hours of daylight each day.

Whether or not you need a visa to enter Armenia will depend on your passport.

• All European Union citizens as well as citizens of the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom do not need a visa prior to arrival.
• Canadian citizens do require a visa but can obtain it upon arrival for 15,000AMD ($30CAD).
• Citizens of Africa (except South Africa) cannot obtain a visa upon arrival . They can only apply at an Armenian diplomatic or consular post, and only with an invitation.

To view the visa requirements for all countries, click here. 

CURRENCY Armenia operates on the Armenian Dram. Credit cards are widely accepted in the city and ATMs are relatively easy to find.

$1 USD = 487AMD $1 AUD = 367AMD $1 CAD = 381AMD £1 = 580AMD €1 = 658 AMD For current exchange rates, or if your country is not listed above click here.

RESTAURANTS  I had a difficult time finding an accurate Armenia travel guide regarding tipping. From what I understand, tipping is common in Yerevan restaurants. My Armenian friend Val (who I’m so grateful to for all of her tips) says that there is no minimum and no expectation, however it’s “greatly appreciated regardless of the percentage.” So anywhere from 5% (on small bills) to 10-20% for restaurants with great service. TAXIS  When taking a taxi, you can round up on the fare. HOTELS  Nick was in Armenia for business so we were lucky to get the opportunity to stay at the Multi Grand Hotel. When ordering room service, we attempted to tip several times and our efforts were denied.

ELECTRICITY

220V / 50 Hz

POWER SOCKETS

The most comment power socket in Armenia is Type C – Non Grounded. You might also run into Type F – Grounded. (We brought only a Type C converter and had no issues).

WiFi is readily available (fast and free!) in Yerevan, and you’ll find it in every restaurant, hotel and coffee shop. Outside of the city, WiFi is a little harder to come by, but we didn’t have a problem finding some when we really needed it.

WHAT THINGS COST

One of the best things about Armenia is how inexpensive it is. Typically, things will cost more in Yerevan and much less in the rest of the country. During our road trip to the North, we stopped by a market to pick up some snacks. We bought homemade bread bigger than both of our faces combined, 2 beers, 2 baklava desserts and some sheep’s cheese for a grand total of less than $6 USD. Here are some approximate Armenia travel expenses to give you an idea of how to budget your trip.

FOOD Inexpensive meal: 1,500 to 3,000AMD ($3-6USD) Dinner for 2 (appetizers, meals + drinks): 10,000-15,000AMD ($20-30)

HOTELS  Hostels 4,800-9,700AMD ($10-20USD) Mid-Range 25,000-60,000 ($50-$120USD) Luxury: 85,000-150,000AMD ($175-300 USD)

DRINKS Cappuccino 600-1,400AMD ($1.20-2.75USD) Domestic Beer -Restaurant: 1,058AMD ($2) Domestic Beer – Grocery Store: 380AMD ($0.76USD) Wine – Restaurant: 700-800AMD ($1.5-$2USD) Bottle of Wine – Grocery Store: 1450AMD ($3USD) Cocktails: 2,432 ($5USD)

TRANSPORTATION Taxis meters start at 600AMD ($1.20USD) and cost 160.93 per mile ($0.33USD). Bus Tickets are 100AMD ($0.20USD)

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK

Armenia’s food won me over.. big time. Just about every traditional restaurant has a massive menu with tons of options, so it can get a little overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the cuisine. Here is a list of some of the most popular and traditional Armenian dishes that you have to try.

BASTURMA is a highly seasoned, air-dried cured beef, and it’s a common appetizer in Armenia. We were served basturma as part of the cold plate during several of our breakfasts. My friend Val recommends trying it in an omelet. KHOROVADZ  is Armenian barbecue, and it’s one of the most typical foods you’ll find in Armenia. Pork is the most common meat, but you can also order chicken, lamb, beef and fish BBQ. If you don’t eat meat, there are tons of vegetable barbecue options. I fell in love with the the mushroom BBQ and ordered it at every meal. DOLMA  is a traditional Armenian dish made of grape leaves, ground beef, rice, plus herbs and spices.  Dolma can also be ordered without meat.

BUREG (also known as Borek or Borag) is a staple in Armenian food. It’s a baked pastry made with thin flakey dough and filled with cheese. LAVASH is a thin unleavened flatbread.. and you cannot leave Armenia without trying it. Not to worry though because if you forget to order it, the waiter will always remind you. At Lavash and Sherep restaurants in Yerevan, you can watch the lavash making process which only adds to the level of appreciation you will have for it once it hits your table. BRANDY (COGNAC) Armenian Brandy is considered to be some of the best in the world and for a short period of time, they were even allowed the prestigious honor of calling their product “cognac.” Armenian brandy was most famously known as the drink of choice for Winston Churchill and they boast gold medals in spirits competitions around the world.

RELATED POST : THE BEST YEREVAN RESTAURANTS // WHERE TO EAT IN ARMENIA’S CAPITAL

10 ARMENIA TRAVEL TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VACATION

ASK TAXIS TO USE THEIR METER  During our time in Yerevan, the only taxi drivers who voluntarily turned on their meter without us having to ask were the ones who were called by our hotel. If the meter does not get not turned on, the driver will quote you his own price at the end of the ride. A few times we forgot to ask about the meter, and the fare was triple what it normally was. We didn’t argue about it as it was only a few dollars difference, but I still hate getting up-charged for being a tourist.

TAXI DRIVERS  Speaking of taxi drivers.. very few spoke English. I recommend having the name of your destination written in Armenian so that they understand where you want to go (you can ask your hotel to help you). When we wanted to go to the Ararat Brandy Factory, our driver thought we asked him to take us to Mt. Ararat… in Turkey. Another time, on the the way back to our hotel, we had to pull up our Google Maps and navigate for him using hand signals. Luckily, they were all very sweet and willing to work with our lack of knowledge about the local language.

PAY ATTENTION TO SPEED LIMITS  If you will be renting a car in Armenia, make sure to follow the speed limits! There are speed camera everywhere and we not only got pulled over, but we saw dozens of others fall prey to the cameras each day.

• In towns, villages and cities– 60 km/h
• Outside of towns, villages and cities – 90 km/h
• On highways– 110 km/h
• Residential areas – 20 km/h

For a huge list of tips about driving in Armenia, including what to expect if you get pulled over, check out my post below:

RELATED POST: ARMENIAN TRAVEL TIPS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RENTING A CAR 

CREDIT CARDS  In the US, our credit cards don’t usually have pin codes. Apparently this is not the norm and we inadvertently caused extreme confusion when we didn’t have a pin to enter during credit card purchases. A few people assured us that they wouldn’t steal our money ( they must’ve though that didn’t want to give them the code for security reasons haha). To their surprise, the sale did eventually go through, but it took about 30 seconds.

FREE PHONE CHARGING IN YEREVAN  If you find yourself running out of phone battery in Yerevan, head towards the Cascade Complex. There’s an open air bus/tourist information center parked out front with free phone charing.

CHECK OUT THE GROCERY STORE Walking through foreign grocery stores is one of my favorite things to do when I travel, and it was even more fun in Armenia because everything is cheap. While beer in your hotel mini bar might seem inexpensive ($2-3USD), you can find it in the grocery store for less than $1USD! Also stock up on fresh bread, homemade cheese and Armenian snacks.

HOW TO TIP Unlike in the US, you tip when paying your bill. If you are paying by card,  let the server know how much extra to add to the bill. If you’re paying with cash, hand the tip over with your total.

SAFETY & SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL  Armenia is extremely safe and I would definitely feel comfortable returning here as a solo (female) traveler. They have a very low crime rate even in their biggest city, Yerevan.

If you don’t know anything about Armenia, you might look at where it’s located on a map, and group it in with high-risk countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. However, Armenia is rated “low-risk” on the Global Terrorism Index  at #75 (for reference, the US sits much higher at #32). Also, the United States Government rates Armenia as “Level 1” – the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk.

Even though Armenia is safe, it’s advised to stay clear of the Azerbaijan border as relations between the two countries remains hostile. And as with any place you travel, always stay conscious of your surroundings.

TALK TO THE PEOPLE  I’ve never been looked at as strangely as I have in Armenia. We would drive through these tiny towns on our road trip throughout the country and people would not drop their gaze. At first I was a little uncomfortable but then I realized, they just don’t see that many tourists.

We started initiating contact first, and quickly discovered that the Armenian people are SO friendly. One of our taxi drivers called his daughter on speakerphone because she spoke better English than him, and he wanted us to talk to her. If we had a problem, people would go out of their way to help us.. like the time we got lost and a very nice man drew directions for us in the dirt. If you find yourself traveling in Armenia, I highly recommend trying to make a connection with the people. They played a big role in my fondness for this country.

ARMENIA TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS // WHERE TO GO

Northern armenia.

DILIJAN A town in Northern Armenia also known as “Little Switzerland” because of it’s dense forests and snowcapped mountains. Dilijan is a good jumping off point for Haghartsin and Goshavank Monasteries.

HAGHARTSIN MONASTERY A 13th century monastery located in the Tavush province. Haghartsin is one of the most visited monasteries in Armenia and is known for it’s incredible location tucked amongst the trees, on the top of a hill.

RELATED POST: HAGHARTSTIN MONASTERY // ARMENIA’S HIDDEN MOUNTAIN GEM

LORI PROVINCE One of the most beautiful provinces in Armenia. It includes towns such as Stepanavan, Alaverdi and Spitak. In Lori Province you can visit the Lori Berd Fortress, Haghpat Monastery and Sanahin Monastery.

RELATED POST: AVAN DZORAGET HOTEL // A PEACEFUL RETREAT IN LORI PROVINCE

LAKE SEVAN   The largest body of water in Armenia and one of the highest altitude lakes in the world. Lake Sevan is a popular Armenia travel getaway for those looking to escape the Summer heat and relax on some sandy beaches. Also be sure to visit Sevanavank Monastery, located right on the shore of the Lake.

GOSHAVANK  Located 15km from Dilijan, Goshavank is a 12th century monastery that used to be one of the leading spiritual and educational-cultural centers of medieval Armenia.

SOUTHERN ARMENIA

JERMUK  A mountain spa town located in the Vayots Dzor Province of Southern Armenia. Most of the country’s mineral water comes from here and it’s a popular destination for those seeking out mineral spa treatments and hot springs.

ARENI  Armenia’s wine region which was said to have been founded by Noah and his sons (from the Christian Bible). The world’s oldest winery was discovered here in the Areni-1 cave, which you can tour.

As you drive through the village, you’ll pass dozens of stands with vendors selling homemade wine out of old water jugs and coke bottles. Or you can visit Hin Areni winery for a tour and tasting. We ended up buying 4 bottles of Hin Areni wine (including their reserve) and it cost less than $30USD.

NORAVANK MONASTERY A 13th century monastery located within a deep gorge created by the Amaghu River. Noravank is definitely worth visiting because the scenery is breathtaking. You can combine your visit with a stop in Areni as it’s only 10km (6 miles) apart.

RELATED POST: NORAVANK MONASTERY // A MUST VISIT SITE IN SOUTHERN ARMENIA

TATEV MONASTERY I highly regret not   making it to this monastery. It was a little too far away to turn into a day trip, and we just ran out of time. Tatev Monastery’s location looks breathtakingly gorgeous, situated on a basalt plateau in the Syunik Province. To reach the monastery, you have to travel on the world’s longest cable car, the Wings of Tatev.

Google it. Trust me.

CENTRAL ARMENIA

KHOR VIRAP Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage site. Khor Virap is said to have been the site where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before successfully converting King Trdat to Christianity, thus making Armenia the world’s first Christian nation. In addition to it’s religious significance, Khor Virap also offers one of the best views of Mount Ararat (granted that it’s not covered by the clouds … like when we visited 🙁 ).

GEGHARD MONASTERY Located in the Kotayak Province, Geghard Monastery was founded in the 4th century by Saint Gregory the Illuminator. It’s partially carved out of the mountain stone and is named after the spear that wounded Jesus during his crucifixion. The spear is said to have been housed here until it was moved to Armenia’s Ejmiatsin Cathedral.

TSAKHKADZOR  Located in the Kotayak Province, Tsakhkadzor is a popular ski resort town only only one hour from Yerevan. Kecharis Monastery and Makravank Monastery are nearby.

YEREVAN Armenia’s capital and the largest city in the country. Yerevan is also known as The Pink City because it’s buildings are made out of pink lava stone.

RELATED POST: 6 THINGS TO DO IN YEREVAN, ARMENIA 

 ARMENIA TRAVEL GUIDE  // WHAT TO WEAR

Despite being sandwiched between Muslim countries, Armenia is a Christian nation so there is no specific dress code to adhere to. Still, it appeared to be somewhat conservative as far as clothing goes, so airing on the side of modesty will help you fit in.

The women in Yerevan had great style; I’d describe it as casual chic with some funky touches here and there. I noticed a lot of blacks and neutrals, with subtle pops of color, cool shoes and of course, designer bags.

The climate changes throughout the country, so packing Armenia travel outfits with a few different layers is recommended. Even in the hot Summer, nights can get a little chilly.

BISHOP + YOUNG TANK | JUNK FOOD GRAPHIC TEE | TOPSHOP STRIPED TEE | FRAME HIGH RISE SKINNY JEANS | TOPSHOP DENIM SKIRT | J.CREW CROP PANTS | TOPSHOP CROPPED STRIPED JUMPSUIT  | T ORY BURCH FLATS | SAM EDELMAN MULE | GUCCI PURSE | FRANK & EILEEN CARDIGAN

Did I miss anything? Leave any of your Armenia travel tips in the comments!

Pin it // the ultimate armenia travel guide.

5 thoughts on “The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide // An Essential Break Down”

What a great post! I totally agree with you, I very rarely see posts about Armenia and think you’ve done a great job of introducing me to the country, it sounds lovely 🙂

Hi Helena, Thank you so much!! Armenia was such a cool country, I hope you make it over there soon 🙂

We are 4 pax planning to visit armenia in mid october (total 7 days travel plan for ) from dubai. travel date oct 14 .

Request to provide a rough itinerary so that we could cover important tourist spots in important towns.

We are nature lovers..then we wish to experience fall season,snow & a daytime .We have to book accommodations at various places as per the itinerary.

please help.

Minju shikin

Hi Minji! I’ve written several posts about Armenia which can hopefully give you some ideas for your trip. https://hellojetlag.com/category/armenia/

I recommend consulting with a travel agent for a more personalized itinerary as they will be able to give you more suggestions beyond what I saw during my trip.

Hope this helps! Lindsey

I have been dreaming on traveling Armenia from long time back. Great sharing of the needed information.

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Wander-Lush

Visit Armenia: The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide

• The Caucasus

I think that Yerevan, which is built from volcanic tuff and is harmonic like a rose, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Pablo Neruda

The Land of Apricots

From the Pink City, Yerevan , to the charcoal-and-gold Gyumri ; the emerald Debed Canyon to the sapphire Lake Sevan – Armenia is a country of vivid colours. The smallest of the three Trans-Caucasus nations, it holds its own in terms of history, hiking, food and wine.

Forged in the fires of a tumultuous past, Armenian culture is one of the most fascinating on earth. Every day in Armenia is a brush with history, from the Khachkar cross stones that sit proudly in Yerevan’s city park and mark the way to monasteries across the country, to Armenian cuisine, costume, music, and the alphabet itself.

Travelling around Armenia with snow-capped Mount Ararat as your North Star is truly one of life’s great privileges. This is one country I’ll keep coming back to for the rest of my days.

Armenia travel essentials

Please note: Some of these links are 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 .

April/May (spring) or September/October. Summer for trekking.

How long in Armenia?

2 full days for Yerevan; 10 days for the highlights; 2-3 weeks to see everything.

Daily budget

35-50 USD per person per day (mid-range hotel; local meals; day tours; museum tickets).

Getting there

Fly into Yerevan or Gyumri; marshrutka/train from Georgia or Iran.

Armenia visa

Visa-free or e-visa (90-180 days) for most passports.

Getting around

Hire a car; use marshrutka vans and trains.

Where to stay

Hostels, family-run guesthouses or hotels.

Tours & experiences

City walking tours, wine tastings and monasteries.

Where to go in Armenia

The perfect Armenia itinerary starts with a few days in Yerevan , a lively city of outdoor cafes, sculpture gardens and buzzing squares. Watch the lavash ladies at work at the GUM Market , and rifle through carpets and antiques at the Vernissage as you hunt for the perfect Armenian souvenir .

There’s a good chance this will be your first real encounter with the Armenian Genocide – an unspeakable atrocity that much of the world seems to have forgotten. Tsitsernakaberd , the national Genocide Memorial and museum, is a must-visit.

Contrast Yerevan with the nation’s second-largest city, Gyumri , known for its lofty architecture and house museums. Visit Vanadzor in the north and Goris in the south, both gateways to incredible nature. Spend a day on sparkling Lake Sevan , Armenia’s jewel, spend a night at the Soviet-era Sevan Writers’ House , find solitude in Dilijan National Park , home to the country’s best hiking trails.

The world’s first Christian nation, Armenia boasts dozens of monasteries and churches, each one more impressive than the last. Khor Virap , Noravank , Geghard and the mighty Tatev , accessed by soaring cable car, can all be visited on day trips from Yerevan. UNESCO-listed Haghpat and Sanahin are my personal favourites.

Along with neighbouring Georgia, Armenia is the cradle of viniculture, so a wine tasting in the Areni Region should also be on your agenda. The Armenian table is one that has been laid over the course of many centuries. Every city, town and small village offers its own incredible cuisine , making this country a real treat for foodies.

Explore Armenia

Get to the heart of Armenia with my latest travel guides.

A Night at the Sevan Writers’ House: What It’s Like to Stay at Armenia’s Iconic Soviet Hotel

How to Travel by Overnight Sleeper Train from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Vice Versa)

10 Things to Do at Lake Sevan in Armenia

30 Awesome Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

12 Things to Do in Gyumri, Armenia’s Historic Second City

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary for 3-10 Days of Travel

My armenia favourites.

The Transcaucasian Trail in Dilijan National Park.

Must-eat meal

Dolma , lavash and a Ponchik (filled donut) to finish.

local experience

Shopping for apricots at the GUM Market in Yerevan.

best souvenir

An Armenian carpet from the Vernissage market.

Travel to Armenia – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From enjoying the world’s longest cable car ride through the mesmerising landscapes of Vorotan canyon to admiring some of the oldest monasteries on record, these are just some of the reasons you should travel to Armenia .

When you travel in Armenia you will often wonder, how come more people aren’t placing Armenia higher on their bucket list?

Not a lot of nations can boast to have preserved their rich cultural heritage dating far back as the ancient times. The perfect examples being the town Yerevan, that is 28 years older then Rome or, their 6,000 year old wine making tradition!

This small country will draw you in with it’s capturing landscapes, ancient monuments and unparalleled hospitality. If you’re up for discovering one of Europe’s best kept secrets travel to Armenia!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Yerevan

Accommodation in yerevan, restaurants in yerevan, nightlife in yerevan, things to do in tatev, accommodation in tatev, restaurants in tatev, accommodation in garni, accommodation in dilijan, an introduction on travel to armenia.

Armenia is not a country that often rings a bell with tourists, which is actually surprising given that it is such an interesting country with an incredibly old, rich and eventful history, fascinating culture and beautiful nature.

The hospitable inhabitants, delicious food and cheap prices, together with a lack of (western) tourists make it a wonderful destination.

The history of Armenia has been nothing short of eventful. It has seen countless invasion as its strategic position was the reason for constant fights over this territory, especially during the Ottoman-Persian wars (from the 16 th century).

Over the course of history numerous major conflicts afflicted the country. Already centuries ago Armenia was battling the Roman Empire (62), invading the Byzantine empire (1145) and losing west Armenia to Turkey while the rest of the country was being Sovietized (1920) to name a few.

Armenia has also been the subject of many mythical stories, like the stranding of the ark of Noach on Mt Ararat, the holy mountain of Armenia, or the conversion to Christianity.

Nowadays the country is mostly known for the horrors of the Armenian genocide and as the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as its state religion.

More presently, the current poor relations with Turkey stem from their role in the genocide and there is a still unresolved conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory operating as a de facto state that is an unrecognized ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan.

So over the centuries much has happened in Armenia, which is why it is so interesting in a cultural sense. Not only for culture buffs though, as the small country packs a great variety in magnificent landscapes that will surely satisfy nature lovers.

General Advice For Travelling In Armenia

If you’re thinking about travelling to Armenia, here are the general things you need to know before you go.

Outside of the capital you can easily assume that nobody speaks English. The language that is spoken is Armenian with its own alphabet.

You can get by fairly well with Russian though as it is the most common foreign language in the country and many Armenians understand it. Road signs are usually in English and in Armenian.

Try to learn a few words like hello (barev) and thank you (mersi), which is much appreciated by the locals. Most accommodation and tour providers speak just enough English to be able to sort things out (if not, try some self-invented sign language which usually works. Or not).

Armenians are very friendly and will try their hardest to help you out, even when they don’t speak a word of English. It’s not uncommon to attract a group of about 10 Armenians when asking for directions, everyone weighing in with one or two words in English and their take on the directions you should have.

Armenia has an interesting, varied and delicious cuisine, with some dishes being well known even beyond Armenia like Shashlick and Dolma.

A lot of the dishes are meat based and they throw everything on grills and barbecue, including vegetables. Soon you’ll notice that the delicious barbecue smell is present basically everywhere you go.

You will eat a lot of Lavish, thin flatbread that is made in a traditional ‘tonir’ oven and is complimentary with almost every dish but doesn’t bore easily.

Common ingredients in Armenian dishes are lamb, eggplant, yoghurt, cottage cheese, grape leaves and many fragrant spices.

There are too many dishes to list and specify if they are delicious or not. I recommended to just try out a lot of different dishes and ask the person who is selling the food what they like.

Armenians appreciate tourists taking an interest in their culture, including food, and asking questions about it usually gets you an excited Armenian and something tasty to eat.

In that way you get to try some new things and there aren’t any exceptionally weird dishes anyway so it is rather safe to do.

Most of the local beer is nothing special, except in Yerevan where there is a very new craft brewery called Dargett. They make absolutely delicious craft beer and the place is packed with young locals on the weekend.

But in terms of drinks the real speciality lies in wine and cognac. Armenian cognac is world famous, thus the Yerevan Brandy Company is proudly presented as a major attraction of the city with tasting tours and a museum (Ararat Museum).

Armenia and Georgia are one of the oldest wine producing countries in the world, with grape cultivation going back to ancient times. Well recognised within the wine world and producing some of the best quality wines there are, make sure to try out a few.

There are a lot of vineyards and factories throughout the country, the most famous one that is open to visitors is the Areni factory. I wouldn’t say it is really worth a visit unless you are passing by anyways, you can take a tour and taste some wines here.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but as you’re in a different country there can always be different bacteria’s than that you are used to that upset your stomach.

In mountain areas (like Tatev) there are often many tap fountains in streets etc. providing delicious water from the mountains.

The currency is the Armenian Dram. It is very well possible to have a low budget holiday, whilst it is also tempting to splurge on food and stuff because it is all quite cheap.

For accommodation we paid on average 15 dollars per person a day which gets you rather nice accommodation. Food is inexpensive as well, in restaurants we paid around 6-8 dollar for a meal plus drinks.

Gas is around 0.86 dollar per litre.

Travelling in Armenia is completely safe. Never once did we feel unsafe somewhere. The only area prone to unrest is the Nagorno Karabakh border due to the before mentioned conflict.

The border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is closed and it is best to avoid the border area all together. Other than that the border with Turkey is closed (due to conflicts between the two countries) so you can’t cross it anyway.

Use your common sense and general precautions for petty crime etc. like you would anywhere.

Buses and share taxis (marshrutkas) get you to most of the major places for cheap but I always prefer to have my own car.

The landscape is just really nice to drive through with enough interesting stops along the way that you’ll want to decide yourselves when you get out.

We rented our car with Sixt and picked it up in Yerevan and dropped off in Tblisi, Georgia (other way around is not possible due to regulations).

If you rent with international companies like Sixt, Hertz e.g. the cheapest car would be around 40 dollar a day. Often you can get cheaper deals with local companies.

Make sure you get the full insurance as the roads can be in quite a bad shape. Unless you really want to go far up in the mountains there isn’t necessarily the need for a 4WD in Armenia as you can get to most places, albeit a bit bumpy sometimes.

The Best Places To Visit In Armenia

Now that you know the basics of the country, it’s time to check out the best places to visit in Armenia.

The capital is a great place to start you trip and spend a day or 2. Contradictory to what you might expect from a Soviet era city, it is quite metropolitan.

It has a lively nightlife scene with clubs, hip restaurants and European style bars. Mixed with the many remains of older days, like the typical pink colored soviet buildings and monuments or the 17 th century neighborhood Kond,

Yerevan has its very own appearance. You won’t find any grand landmarks here, rather it is just a nice place to absorb the atmosphere and familiarize yourself a bit with the country you are in.

The Armenian genocide museum is well worth the visit if you want to learn and understand a bit more about Armenians, their history and relations with neighboring countries like Turkey.

There are a few other museums, like the History museum of Armenia and the National Gallery that are interesting as well.

Yerevan is incredibly old, 2800 years to be exact, which is 28 years older than Rome. Thus, it is drenched in interesting history.

A good way to learn more about this is one of the mentioned museum or a (free) walking tour.

A prominent feature of the city centre are the cascade stairs. It is a large stairwell that leads to the grim Soviet monument (not one for extravagant decorating those soviets) erected for celebrating 50 years of Soviet Armenia.

It provides great views over the city and to the massive statue mother of Armenia, supposedly placed defiantly in the direction of Turkey.

Underneath the stairwell is a contemporary art museum which you can enter for free and that you’ll pass through if you decide to take the escalator instead of the stairs to the monument.

You can wander around in the 17 th century neighborhood ‘Kond’, that really feels like a separate part of the city where incredibly old and derelict houses sit on the narrow streets and alleys.

Lover’s park is a small park that is excellent for a bit of relaxing and watching the locals going about their day, grabbing coffee or playing chess and other board games, a favourite pastime activity of many.

There are enough hostels and guesthouses in the city. The Envoy Hostel is a highly recommended hostel and is small but good, the staff is helpful and the location is perfect. Homestays like Anahit Stepayan ’s are quite popular as well if you’d choose for a more local experience.

The restaurant called ‘ The Club ’ is my favourite place. It is a bit hidden in a basement underneath a clothing store. The atmosphere, absolutely delicious (and cheap) food and the fact that there was not another tourist to be seen make it a great place.

In the evening the city comes a bit more alive around the square, where there are many (trendy) bars and restaurants and well-dressed locals making their way for an evening of dining and drinking, a seemingly favourite activity of Armenians.

There are plenty of Western style bars, like an Irish, Beatles and 90’s bars. Most of the bars have a very unobtrusive entrance and are in the basement of the residency buildings.

Around the big square there a few more, but rather tacky looking, bars. I can absolutely recommend the Calumet Bar .

A small, warm bar filled with very lively locals. We spent two nights in a row there and had a great time.

On one occasion we met a group of guys who looked equally bewildered, out of place and fascinated as us. They turned out to be pretty much the only western people we’ve seen on our trip and together we enjoyed looking at the Armenians getting their groove on that night.

The bar goers were very friendly and interested in our country like we were in theirs. The level of English is notably better with young people in the capital.

Like mentioned before, if you like craft beer head over to Dargett to taste some great homemade craft beer and have a meal. It is quite western but rather popular with (young) locals.

Tatev has become known mostly for the longest cable cart in the world, the wings of Tatev, that lead to the Tatev monastery.

Most people arrive in Tatev by cable cart, have a look at the monastery and return. However, there is plenty to see and the drive alone through the Vorotan canyon is worth it.

If you leave from Yerevan it is a 4 to 5 hour drive, that takes you through an incredible varied landscape, starting with arid, desert like surroundings when you leave the capital.

It’s not too long before some thin pasture appears and many fruit and vegetable stalls alongside the road.

After a while the road climbs up into the mountains, 2 hours or so later you’ll cross a mountain pass and suddenly the landscape has changed to green hills and endless fields with blooming wildflowers, while the air is substantially colder due to the elevation.

The vendors have changed as well, now there are people selling honey on the side of the road. The road eventually leads to a junction where the main road continues to Goris (another destination worth checking out) and the secondary road to Tatev.

This road goes through a few old and derelict villages. Some of them look like a war has struck with streets full of rumble and scrap metal. Rusty old decaying cars, trucks and tractors are parked everywhere.

A man is sweeping up big pick piles of rocks, with a broom (probably still working on that I assume). The side streets are unpaved, rocky and full of holes. People stared at us unabashed, I don’t think they have seen many western tourists passing through here.

Granted, our shiny red Nissan Micra didn’t do a good job in hiding the fact that we were tourists either, as old Lada’s really are the only cars locals drive.

After passing through those villages, a zigzag road takes you along the edge of the canyon, providing magnificent views from several nice viewpoints, like the medieval bell chapel.

The road winds all the way down to the canyon to cross the river, only to go right back up the mountains again on a gravel road to reach the village of Tatev.

It is a very small village and pretty quiet, with most tourists concentrating in the area around the cable cart and the monastery.

There are a number of short and longer hikes in the area. We hiked to Mount Petroskhach, which takes you through the old part of the village up into the hills, providing magnificent views across a large part of the steep canyon, which seems to have an almost straight drop from the plateau.

The trail is sometimes a bit difficult to follow as there are a number of trails leaving from the area. We asked a few locals for directions, ignored their advice anyway and went the wrong way (obviously).

Down in the canyon where you crossed the river by car, there is a small parking spot. From here you can follow the footpath alongside the river which takes you through bushy, shrubs and across the river.

In summer the area around the river is teeming with life, lots of butterflies, dragonflies, other insects, fish, birds and many flowers. Be aware that there are snakes as well, take caution when walking into thick grass.

The path leads to the Tatevi Anapat monastery, a complex dating from the 17 th century, which was abandoned by the monks due to an earthquake in 1658 resulting in the ruins that you see here today.

It has this amazing Indiana Jones feeling to it, as an ancient complex slowly taken back by nature, barely visible from the road. Upon entering the main building, which is still quite intact, a soft voice filled the room.

Near the altar there was a monk praying, dressed in his long black robe. Apparently he is still living here all by himself.

The path continues along the river, we didn’t take it due to lack of time but it looks very promising. Following your way back to the parking lot there are a number of viewing platforms over the river.

They call this area Devil’s bridge (Satani Kamurj), named like that because the formation of it seemed improbable, therefore it must be the Devil’s work.

From the viewing platforms you can’t really see that much of it, however you can get down in the river and explore the incredible caves alongside it.

Down in the river it really looks like a scene coming straight out of a fairy tale.

Moss and plants gracefully decorate the walls, while stalactites in all kind of shapes and colours hang from the cave ceilings and form weird terraces around pools, the water containing (supposedly) healing minerals. It gives the impression that you’re walking in a movie set or a themepark attraction.

From down in the river you can also see the Devil’s bridge much better. To get down there you follow the footpath from the viewing platforms all the way to the end, where there is a small hanging rope to get you down onto a wobbly ladder and finally in the river. This rope is a bit hidden between the bushes.

Be aware that it is all a little bit treacherous and one could easily fall and slip and you also have to wade through the river.

At some points the river flows quite fast, we decided to plunge in and let the river takes us somewhere, which landed us at another amazing spot.

Getting back upstream proved a bit more difficult, but also guarantees some hilarious videos of your travelmates struggling to return while the river keeps pushing you back.

It is not a very big or deep river so nothing too dangerous. It is absolutely worth it to get down in the river, this really made us feel like true explorers.

Back in Tatev the monastery is well worth a visit of course. If you continue down the road for a bit there is a nice viewpoint that looks out over the monastery and canyon. The monastery is perched beautifully on a rock overlooking the whole canyon.

We stayed for 2 days but it is an area that begs to be explored. The beautiful canyon has walking paths following the river that you just want to follow and see where it ends up or take one of the small unpaved roads and just see where it goes.

At this point we turned back in the direction of Yerevan, if you continue the road it will take you to even higher mountains and eventually to the border crossing with Iran.

I highly recommend Saro’s Bed and Breakfast .  We were welcomed by Saro’s sister Maro, who is very friendly and hospitable and made sure we were provided with everything we needed, like homemade lemonade, cakes, coffee and she even brought us some lunch to take on a hike at no charge.

Most of the dinner is prepared on the big barbecue and delicious as well. Dolma, rabbit stew and a bottle of homemade red wine make for a great meal.

Maro’s dad also takes guests on a little excursion into the mountain in his old jeep. There are a number of options for guesthouses and bed and breakfasts in Tatev though.

On the drive from Yerevan you’ll pass the Areni Wine Factory. There are also people selling wine everywhere at the side of the road in plastic cola bottles, apparently for Irani truck drivers (as they are not allowed to drink alcohol in Iran thus have to hide it).

There are no supermarkets in Tatev. Stock up on some items and make sure your accommodation can provide all your required meals. There is however a small information centre with a small café. They can also provide with you with hiking routes, maps etc. Saro’s bed and breakfast is also a restaurant for non-guests.

Garni is a town close to Yerevan and for a rather big settlement the road leading to it from the capital is quite strange (or we took a wrong route).

Leaving Yerevan the road suddenly consists of more dirt and holes than actual tarmac. The landscape is incredibly dry for a bit, although it still is a habitat for quite some birds.

Garni itself is a small town with the major attractions being the Garni temple, the only pagan temple in Armenia, the Geghard monastery and the beautiful Garni gorge with the adjacent Khosov nature reserve.

You can enter the Garni gorge from both side of town by car or on foot. Inside the Garni gorge you’ll find this incredible miracle of nature called the Symphony of Stones, a rather fitting name for stone walls that are carved out in perfect cube like pillars.

You can drive the dirt road all the way to the other entrance but after a while we were afraid our Nissan Micra couldn’t take it anymore with all the massive bumps and holes in the road.

There are many hiking trails in the Khosov nature reserve. If you come from Garni the entrance is quite unclear. I drove to the entrance on google maps, a dirt road climbing up the hill.

Eventually a guarded gate signed the entrance and that you could not go further with car, however there was no real parking place either. Thus from Garni it is best to walk to the entrance or enter from the other side.

The Geghard monastery is amazing, but very touristic. Like tour buses touristic, so be there early to avoid crowds and marvel at this dark coloured, ancient complex without too many tourists.

The Garni temple is beautifully perched on top of the ridge overlooking the gorge, best to visit it at the end of the day for nice lighting.

The nearby restaurant is excellent, and also has one of the best terraces I have ever seen, overlooking the gorge and the temple.

We had rented a whole house (called ‘ Dinadav House ’) for ourselves for around 50 dollar in total. There are a number of options on booking.com and It is quite nice to stay in a residents house back in a neighbourhood to get a more local feeling.

Moving up north, Dilijan presents a completely different landscape again. Also commonly referred to as the Switzerland of Armenia, this is a small town in between lush green forests and hills.

There is not much to do other than hike the beautiful surroundings and visit some monasteries like Haghartsin, which can keep you busy for a few days though.

A bit further there is also a zipline but we stuck with the hiking. We hiked near the Haghartsin monastery, which can be reached by a road with twists and turns that begs to be driven with an old school convertible and a hot girl next to you, unfortunately we had to do it with a Nissan Micra and two dudes.

The forests are just like how I expect a real forest to be: lush, plenty of variation in the vegetation and full of blooming flowers.

It is a forest where you just expect to see a bear, or some creature from a fairytale pop up from behind a tree any minute.

We stayed in the Belvedere Eco Rest Zone , located 10 minutes out of town, and beautifully situated near the river. The food is nice, staff is friendly and the rooms are perfectly fine and very cheap. There are a few hotel/hostel options in town as well.

Monasteries In Dilijan

Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion. The story goes that after a Christian (Gregory the Illuminator) cured the Armenian king of a grave illness, he agreed to convert to Christianity, which happened in 301 AD.

Around 95% of the population nowadays is Christian, while Armenia is surrounded by Muslim countries except for Georgia.

As the country had such a major role in establishing Christianity, you will encounter a lot of monasteries and other religious sites.

All these incredibly old buildings and associated tales and myths instil a mysterious and ancient atmosphere to many of the sites that we visited.

You’ll notice one common denominator among the monasteries and that is they sure knew how to pick spectacular locations to build them, usually perched on some cliff surrounded by a dramatic landscape. A few noteworthy monasteries that I visited are listed below:

This 13 th century monastery is located on the way from Yerevan to Tatev, close to Areni, which is a nice little detour. It is beautifully situated in a landscape that most closely resembles the Grand Canyon; hot, dry, and with red dirt mountains.

The complex has a few different churches and chapels and it was the residency of Syunik’s bishops in the 13 th century. It is however, very busy with tourists.

A 9 th century monastery in Tatev (obviously). It is located on the edge of a plateau overlooking the gorge set in a spectacular landscape.

You can go inside the complex, but if you follow the road for a little bit there is a great viewpoint of the monastery. If you venture a bit through the bushes you can see a waterfall coming down as well.

The monastery played an important role as an spiritual centre and medieval university in Armenia.

Founded in the 4 th century in Garni, this dark coloured monastery complex is surrounded by cliffs and located next to a gorge.

The inside, and especially the cave chambers, feels so old (well they are, 4 th century!) and it has a bit of mysterious vibe to it, like you are stepping back in time.

The vendors and tour buses at the entrance detract the atmosphere a bit, but it is definitely worthwhile.

We did not visit one of the most famous monasteries, as there were thick clouds that day and it is famous for having the snow-capped peak of Ararat in the background.

We were also out of time and guessed it would be another busy monastery as well, as this is one of the most popular landmarks in Armenia.

Gregory the Illuminator was 13 years imprisoned here by the king before he cured him of an illness after which the king and country converted to Christianity.

The construction of a chapel already began in 642, the current church was however finished in the 17 th century. It is located a few kilometres of the main highway around Yerevan.

A 13 th century monastery in Dilijan beautifully located in the lush green forests. It is small and not completely intact anymore but worth a visit. It is quite nice and the main building (church) is still intact.

Also the starting point from a number of trails in the forests so perfect for combining those activities.

There are many more monasteries, churches and other religious site of interest. Many can be done in a day tour from Yerevan (hostels organise these).

Note:  When I say busy with tourists, these are almost exclusively domestic Armenian and Georgian tourists. No tour buses with Asians or Europeans here. Best to get there early to avoid crowds. There are no entrance fees to the monasteries. The more popular ones will charge you a very small fee for parking.

These places will take you around the country, which we did in 8 days. It is not very big but there is plenty to see, I’d recommend to take at least 8 days to explore Armenia.

It is still a rather underrated destination, apparent by the low number of tourists that visit the country. It should however receive much more attention, as I have never been to a country before that made me feel like a true explorer without the discomfort of one.

The history is endlessly interesting and the landscapes fascinating. I’d say the country is the perfect introduction to one of the most interesting corners of the world, standing at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

[box] That’s it for my travel to Armenia guide. Leave a comment below if this has helped you, or if you have something to add.[/box]

Thijs Broekkamp

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I highly recommend a visit to Yerevan. The city is filled with beautiful architecture and rich history, and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I had a wonderful time exploring the city’s vibrant culture through its delicious food, unique museums, and lively nightlife

Hi, thank you for your great article! We’ll be going to Armenia tomorrow and I was wondering about the car rental. Where did you rent the car and do you think it is possible to do a similar trip with local buses? Thanks for your help 🙂

Hi Lauriane, sorry for the late reply. We hope you had a great time in Armenia. Happy travels

My daughter and I are going on our first trip to Armenia in the summer of 2020. I read your blog and look forward to my trip! Thank you, now I know more about Armenia! Great photos!

Hi Tori, I hope your trip is still on. Have a wonderful time. Happy travels

Hey, Thank you for this beautiful article. We are planning a trip a to Armenia and wanted to know if we rent a car can we do, Garni, Geghard, Dilijan and Lake Sevan on the way in an entire day if we leave early morning? We do not want to stay anywhere as we will be based in Yerevan. A Nissan Micra would be enough for this journey? We are traveling in October. Do google maps work here accurately? Thank you so much for your help!

Hi, thank you so much. About all the destinations with a car rental, we are not too sure sorry. Maybe contact the car rental company. They may be able to help. All the best. Happy travels

Thanks a lot for telling about your adventurous trip. Leaving for Armenia in a few days, liked your writing, hope to love this country ss you did.

Glad the article helped. All the best with your trip.

Thanks. I’m in Georgia now, then Turkey.Bulgaria, Romania . I’m going to Armenia end Sept.. Looking forward to it especially after reading your intensive tipsxx

Have a great trip. 🙂

According to you Armenia looking awesome to see.

It is a great place. We can not wait to go back and explore more.

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The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide in 2024

Why visit armenia.

Armenia, home to one of the oldest civilizations, invites travelers to the land of milk and honey. A glance through the Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide will give you a glimpse into the rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it an exceptional destination. This travel guide to Armenia will show you why it is becoming the hot new destination for families, hiking junkies, and history buffs.

But don’t let the ancient history and family friendly environment think that people here do not know how to party. Armenia boasts of a vibrant and welcoming capital city, Yerevan, with bustling markets, a burgeoning art scene, and a thriving nightlife that’s bound to enchant anyone in search of adventure.

When to Visit and How

Armenia used to be a place that only saw visitors in the summer but as tourism has been rapidly developing, the country is already seeing year round tourism! This Armenian travel guide will give you the right idea of what to expect when you visit.

• Busy season with peak tourism
• Cultural, music, and food festivals
• Peak season to eat our world famous apricots and visit our enormous high altitude freshwater lake Sevan.
• Perfect time to explore nature
• Plenty of Harvest Festivals
• Enjoy the sweet pomegranates you see decorated in every rock and see all the different colors in nature

• Perfect for Winter Sports
• Enjoy tasty dried fruits and piping hot bbq
• Visit the two famous winter resort towns of Jermuk and Tsaghkadzor or enjoy some Khash near the top of Mt. Aragats
• Fewest Tourists
• Peak Foraging Season
• Visit the lush forests of Lori and Tavush, and enjoy the hundreds of edible wild plants native to the region

How to Get to Armenia

For the majority of the people in the world, the best way to get to Armenia is to fly to the Zvartnots airport in Yerevan, EVN. It is best to book through an Armenian tour agency to have your pickup arranged and make the ride to our hotel as easy as possible. The airport is only a quick 30 minute ride from the city center by car and while public transportation is available, it is not easy to travel with luggage. 

All that is left is to make sure you got all of your paperwork in order. Get detailed information about planning your trip in depth on when to visit Armenia and how. 

Visa Requirements for Armenia

For EU citizens, Armenia welcomes travelers with a relatively straightforward process. Most EU citizens can enter Armenia visa-free for up to 180 days within a year. For US citizens, the visa process is equally convenient. Armenia offers a visa-free regime for American passport holders, allowing them to stay for up to 180 days within a year.  For major Asian countries like India, China, and Japan, Armenia has taken steps to simplify the visa process to promote tourism and cultural exchange. Travelers from these nations can apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) online before their trip, streamlining the entry process. The e-Visa allows them to stay in Armenia for up to 120 days within a year.   For specific information regarding visa requirements please visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website

The Rich Culture and History

Armenian has been on historical maps for as long as maps have been made in the area. In fact, it is commonly joked that the people are the oldest things in the country. In fact, a 7,000 year old tooth dug up in Armenia matched perfectly with the current residents of the area ! 

From the oldest leather shoe ever found to the oldest winery, wheat varieties, and carpets, Armenia truly is the cradle of civilizations. The same innovative culture that started civilization continues today with award winning wines, brilliant stone carving, and game changing tech companies.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Armenia

Nothing gets as mythical as Geghard, the 4th century monastery carved out the side of a mountain at the site of a natural spring. In less than an hour’s drive from Yerevan, about 26 km, words can not do this spiritual monument justice.

One of the more scenic regions of Armenia, the city of Dilijian is nestled in forested mountains and is just more than an hour’s drive of 97 km from the capital Yerevan. Enjoy the cozy coffee shops, contact an Armenian travel guide for a beautiful city tour, and enjoy one of the dozens of hiking trails.

Tatev Monastery

Tucked away in the deep south of mountainous Armenia, the Tatev Monastery is one of the most historically significant churches in the region. And what better way to get to it than hopping on the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest aerial tramway that goes through a breathtaking gorge. Definitely worth the 4 hour scenic drive of 256 km from Yerevan.

It is no surprise that even the cliffs and sky share the deep purple of wine in Armenia’s vineyard capital of Areni. Talk to your Armenian travel guide to book a wine tasting trip so you can experience wine from the same region as the world’s oldest winery. You can cover the 76 km drive in just under two hours from Yerevan, and be transported to an ancient wine country.

Exploring Yerevan: The vibrant capital city

Yerevan is where everything happens. The pink city is Decorated with urban parks, fountains as far as the eye can see, and enough to keep you busy year round.

The Whole City is A Museum

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Cascade Complex, a grand staircase adorned with contemporary sculptures, an indoor museum of different eras of Armenian art, and stunning views of the city with the majestic Mount Ararat dominating the background. The city center is packed with museums that are historic homes of famous painters, actors, and writers.

Busy Markets to Shop at

The pink city not only looks great but has a lot to offer in the many busy shopping centers. Vernissage is the prime destination for tourists with neatly organized booths selling vintage antiques, handmade goods, and beautiful arts and crafts. If you are on the lookout for a local taste, there are street markets scattered all around the city, just make sure you have an Armenian travel guide with you to facilitate.

Taste the Fire

With all of that walking you need to get your energy back with a satiating meal. Armenia is not big on street food, have a seat at one of the hundreds of busy restaurants and enjoy top notch service. With such a large Armenian diaspora, there is a large variety of cuisine to choose from with the tastiest local ingredients. 

Tip: Stick to what your Armenian travel guide recommends , there is no secret hole in the wall they are hiding from you. 

Armenian traditions: Engaging with local culture

Armenians being over 90% of the population, are used to living with a high level of trust in each other. You will often see strangers helping each other out by carrying groceries for the elderly, entertaining children on a bus, and inviting passerbyers for coffee. While this culture is better preserved outside of the capital, you will still be surprised at how much people will go out of their way to help you. 

While Armenia may seem like a modern European country, culturally it is very conservative. 

The absolute best way to engage with local people is through an Armenian tour guide. Seems counterintuitive? Your Armenian tour guide has experience facilitating discussions, introducing tourists to the right people, and preparing everything in advance so you can focus on just enjoying your trip to Armenia. 

4 Practical Tips to Help You Explore Armenia

1. Stick to a Tour Guide There are plenty of online Armenian travel blogs out there that will tell you that you can experience Armenia on your own but forget to mention just how difficult it can be to find proper accommodations outside the capital of Yerevan without some insider information. Sometimes knowing the Armenian language and having internet access may not even be enough, you have to know the locals, so best leave it to the person who gets paid to organize a tour. We promise you there is no authentic experience you are missing out on because you went with a tour guide. It is best to experience through a professional tour to avoid a bad experience.

2. Wear a comfortable pair of shoes.

Do not be fooled by all the dress shoes people wear. Almost everywhere you will visit will include a lot of walking. Expect to be going uphill both ways. The walking roads are not always paved and being in a mountainous area means it can rain at any given moment.

3. Carry Cash

While credit card terminals and NFC readers are extremely common in Yerevan, cash is still king outside of the capital. Major currencies like the Euro and USD can easily be exchanged at fair rates all around the country, but ATMs are not as common.

4. Stay Hydrated Don’t be fooled by the cool weather and occasional breeze. Armenia is a high altitude country and the sun beats down harder than you think. Make sure to pack extra sunscreen if you need it and bring a reusable water bottle with you everywhere. Armenia is known for having very clean spring water in many regions, just double check with your tour guide that the water is safe to drink.

Armenia is one of the most beautiful mountainous countries with a rich ancient history. It is a prime destination for hikers and history buffs alike, where you can see some of the world’s oldest churches, wineries, and castles, deep in forests, valleys, and mountains. When you do decide to come visit Armenia, save yourself a headache and book with an Armenian travel guide . While the tourism industry is growing in this friendly country, it is still tough to visit places on your own or figure out where to go. You are coming to Armenia to experience nature, history, and people, best to guarantee yourself a good time. 

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Armenia Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Armenia, a hidden gem in the South Caucasus, offers tourists a captivating blend of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. This landlocked country is known for its ancient monasteries, including the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery and the iconic Tatev Monastery, perched on cliffs with breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the capital city, Yerevan, with its vibrant culture, open-air markets, and lively dining scene. Armenia’s diverse geography invites adventure seekers with opportunities for hiking in the scenic Caucasus Mountains and relaxing by Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest alpine lakes. Whether you’re captivated by its millennia-old history or drawn to its untouched natural beauty, Armenia promises a unique and enriching travel experience.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

The best time to visit Armenia as a tourist depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Armenia experiences distinct seasons, each offering its own attractions:

• Best for Nature and Flowers : Spring is a beautiful time to visit Armenia when the landscape bursts into colorful blooms. It’s ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Moderate Weather : The weather is generally mild, with pleasantly warm days and cool nights. It’s a great time for outdoor activities.
• Warm and Sunny : Summer is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny days. It’s perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Festivals and Events : You can catch numerous festivals and cultural events during this time.
• Mild Weather : Autumn offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds than summer. The fall foliage in rural areas is stunning.
• Wine Harvest : It’s the grape harvest season, making it an excellent time to explore Armenia’s wine regions.
• Winter Sports : If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, visit during this time for skiing and snowboarding in resorts like Tsaghkadzor.
• Cultural Experiences : Winter is an excellent time for cultural immersion, as you can experience traditional celebrations like Armenian Christmas and New Year’s.

Overall, the best time to visit Armenia for most tourists is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast or interested in experiencing Armenian cultural celebrations, the winter months can also be a great choice. Summer is the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices, especially in popular tourist areas.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Getting around Armenia as a tourist is relatively straightforward, and there are several transportation options to explore this beautiful country:

• Taxi : Taxis are widely available in Armenian cities and can be an efficient way to get around, especially within urban areas. Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as many taxis do not use meters.
• Yerevan Metro : Yerevan, the capital city, has a metro system with two lines. It’s an affordable and convenient way to navigate the city. The metro operates from early morning until late evening.
• Public Buses : Public buses and minibusses (marshrutkas) serve urban and intercity routes. They are cost-effective but may not always follow strict schedules. Pay your fare to the driver upon boarding.
• Car Rentals : Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore Armenia’s more remote areas, including scenic mountain roads. However, be prepared for sometimes challenging driving conditions, especially in rural areas.
• Private Drivers : You can hire private drivers or use ride-sharing apps like Yandex.Taxi, which are widely used in Armenia. This can be a comfortable way to travel, especially for longer journeys.
• Armenian Railway : The railway system connects major cities like Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor. Trains are a scenic way to travel but may be slower than other transportation options.
• Domestic Flights : While Armenia is a small country, there are domestic flights available, primarily connecting Yerevan with the regional airport in Gyumri.
• Tourist Buses and Tours : Many tour operators in Armenia offer guided tours and excursions to popular tourist destinations. These can be a hassle-free way to explore the country.
• Biking : In cities like Yerevan, you can rent bicycles to explore at your own pace. Some areas, particularly in the countryside, offer excellent opportunities for cycling enthusiasts.
• Walking : Exploring cities and towns on foot is a fantastic way to soak in the local culture and discover hidden gems. Yerevan, in particular, is very walkable.

When using public transportation in Armenia, it’s a good idea to have some knowledge of basic Armenian phrases or place names written in Armenian script, as English may not be widely spoken or understood in rural areas. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded places or on public transportation.

What’s the Official Language?

The official language of Armenia is Armenian. While many Armenians, especially in urban areas, may have some knowledge of English, particularly in the tourism industry, it’s helpful and respectful to learn a few basic Armenian words and phrases when visiting as a tourist. Here are some essential Armenian words and phrases for tourists:

• Hello – Բարև (Barev)
• Good morning – Բարև առավոտված (Barev aravotvats)
• Good afternoon – Բարև լուսավորած (Barev lusavorats)
• Good evening – Բարև երեկոյան (Barev yerkeyan)
• Goodbye – Ցտեսություն (Tstesutyun)
• Yes – Այո (Ayo)
• No – Ոչ (Voč)
• Please – Խնդրում եմ (Khndrum em)
• Thank you – Շնորհակալ եմ (Shnorhakal em)
• Excuse me / Sorry – Ներողություն (Neroghutyun)
• I don’t understand – Ես չեմ հասկանում (Yes chem haskanum)
• How much does this cost? – Այսպիսին արժե ունի? (Ayspisin arje uni?)
• Where is…? – Որպեսզին է…? (Vorpeszin e…?)
• Restroom / Toilet – Խնդրում եմ շտաբուկ ունես՞ (Khndrum em shtabuk unes?)
• I need help – Խնդրում եմ մարդկանց օգնելու (Khndrum em mardkants ognelu)
• Water – Ջուր (Joor)
• Food – Սնուցմունք (Snujmunq)
• Beer – Բիր (Beer)
• Wine – Գինի (Gini)
• Bill, please – Հաշիվ, խնդրում եմ (Hashiv, khndrum em)

Armenians appreciate it when visitors make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. It can enhance your travel experience and foster positive interactions with locals.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Armenia offers a variety of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The choice of where to stay depends on your budget, preferences, and the areas you plan to explore. Here are some popular places to stay in Armenia:

Yerevan (Capital City):

• Downtown Yerevan : This area is ideal if you want to be in the heart of the city, close to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. You’ll find a mix of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to suit various budgets.
• Kentron District : Kentron is the central district of Yerevan and includes many upscale hotels, boutique accommodations, and apartments. It’s a great choice for luxury travelers.
• Cascade : The Cascade complex is an iconic spot in Yerevan, and some hotels offer stunning views of the city from this area.

Tsaghkadzor (Mountain Resort Town):

• Tsaghkadzor City : Located in the picturesque mountains, Tsaghkadzor offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. It’s a popular destination for skiing and outdoor activities.

Dilijan (Armenian Switzerland):

• Dilijan Town : Often referred to as “Armenian Switzerland” for its lush forests and natural beauty, Dilijan has boutique hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. It’s a relaxing getaway destination.

Gyumri (Second-Largest City):

• Gyumri City : This historic city has various hotels and guesthouses, making it a good base for exploring the region. It’s known for its unique architecture and cultural heritage.

Vanadzor (Third-Largest City):

• Vanadzor City : Vanadzor offers a selection of hotels and guesthouses. It’s a gateway to the Lori region’s attractions, including monasteries and natural wonders.

Sevan (Lake Sevan):

• Lake Sevan : Enjoy lakeside accommodations in resorts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Lake Sevan is the largest alpine lake in the region and offers water activities.

Countryside and Rural Areas:

• Aghveran : Located in a picturesque valley, Aghveran offers resorts and retreats, making it a peaceful and relaxing escape from the city.
• Vayots Dzor and Syunik Regions : These regions have guesthouses and B&Bs in rural areas, offering a chance to experience Armenian village life.

When choosing where to stay in Armenia, consider your interests and the activities you plan to undertake. If you’re exploring multiple regions, you can find accommodations in various cities and towns to suit your itinerary. Additionally, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure the best options for your stay.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Armenian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, unique combinations, and traditional recipes passed down through generations. When visiting Armenia as a tourist, be sure to try these must-try Armenian dishes and foods:

• Khorovats (Armenian BBQ) : Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically pork, lamb, or chicken, often served with lavash (Armenian flatbread) and vegetables.
• Dolma : Grape leaves or cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, herbs, and spices, usually served with yogurt or a tomato-based sauce.
• Lavash : Thin, soft Armenian flatbread, a staple in Armenian cuisine, often used to wrap various dishes or enjoyed with cheese and herbs.
• Kebab : Minced meat mixed with herbs and spices, grilled on a skewer, and served with lavash and vegetables. The most famous is the Lula kebab, typically made from ground meat.
• Khash : A traditional Armenian soup made from boiled cow’s feet, often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast dish, usually accompanied by garlic, salt, and vodka.
• Harissa : A hearty porridge made from cracked wheat and slow-cooked with meat, often chicken or lamb. It’s a comfort food loved by many Armenians.
• Manti : Dumplings filled with spiced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. They come in various sizes and shapes.
• Gata : A sweet pastry made from flaky dough and filled with sugar, nuts, and spices. It’s often enjoyed with Armenian coffee or tea.
• Basturma : A highly seasoned, air-dried beef typically served thinly sliced. It’s a popular appetizer or addition to sandwiches.
• Armenian Cheese : Try various types of Armenian cheese, including Lori, Chanakh, and Chechil, often enjoyed with fresh herbs and lavash.
• Khorovats : A traditional Armenian barbecue dish featuring marinated and grilled vegetables, often served as a side dish to meats.
• Zhingyalov Hats : A unique Armenian flatbread filled with a mixture of finely chopped herbs and greens, a delightful vegetarian option.
• Armenian Cognac : Armenia is known for its brandy production, and trying Armenian cognac is a must for those interested in spirits.
• Armenian Wine : Armenia has a rich wine-making tradition, and you can taste a variety of wines, including Areni, one of the oldest grape varieties in the world.
• Baklava : A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
• Tolma (Armenian Stuffed Vegetables) : Similar to dolma but made with stuffed vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or eggplants.

Armenian cuisine is diverse and reflects the country’s long history and cultural influences. Be sure to explore local markets, restaurants, and street food vendors to savor the flavors of Armenia during your visit.

What to See? 🔍

Armenia is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a wide range of attractions for tourists. Here are some must-see places in Armenia:

Yerevan, the Capital City:

• Republic Square : The heart of Yerevan with its iconic National History Museum and Art Museum, surrounded by stunning neoclassical architecture.
• Matenadaran : The Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts houses an impressive collection of ancient texts, including illuminated manuscripts and scrolls.
• Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum : A somber but important site commemorating the Armenian Genocide of 1915, with a museum providing historical context.
• Geghard Monastery : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this rock-cut monastery is known for its stunning cave churches and intricate carvings.
• Khor Virap : Offers breathtaking views of Mount Ararat, the national symbol of Armenia, and is a significant pilgrimage site.
• Tatev Monastery : Accessible via the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway, this medieval monastery complex is perched on a hilltop with magnificent views.
• Garni Temple : A well-preserved Pagan temple dedicated to Mihr, the sun god, located amidst stunning scenery in the Garni Gorge.
• Lake Sevan : Visit the “Jewel of Armenia,” one of the largest freshwater, high-altitude lakes in the world, and explore Sevanavank Monastery.
• Noravank : Known for its red rock canyons and the spectacular Surb Astvatsatsin Church, Noravank is a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts.
• Ararat Brandy Factory : Learn about the art of brandy-making and taste some of Armenia’s finest brandies.
• Dilijan : Often referred to as “Armenian Switzerland,” this spa town offers lush forests, charming architecture, and cultural sites.
• Khoranashat Monastery : A picturesque monastery nestled in the mountains, accessible by a scenic hike.
• Areni Village : Visit the village known for its wine production and explore local wineries to sample Armenian wines.
• Gyumri : Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri boasts unique architecture, historic sites, and a vibrant local culture.
• Talin : Explore the medieval village of Talin, known for its ancient churches and historical significance.
• Jermuk : A famous spa town with natural hot springs and health resorts, perfect for relaxation.
• Debed Canyon : Discover charming villages, fortresses, and monasteries scattered throughout this scenic canyon.

Armenia’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical significance make it a compelling destination for travelers interested in history, nature, and authentic cultural experiences. Be sure to explore both the well-known sites and hidden gems to fully appreciate all that Armenia has to offer.

What to Do? 📸

Armenia offers a wide range of experiences for tourists, from exploring historical sites to enjoying its stunning natural landscapes and immersing yourself in local culture. Here are some must-do things when visiting Armenia:

• Visit Ancient Monasteries : Explore the country’s ancient monasteries, such as Geghard, Khor Virap, and Noravank, known for their unique architecture and historical significance.
• Hike in the Caucasus Mountains : Armenia is a hiker’s paradise, offering scenic trails with breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and canyons.
• Taste Armenian Cuisine : Sample Armenian dishes like khorovats (barbecue), dolma, and lavash, and enjoy local wines and brandies.
• Take in the View of Mount Ararat : Visit sites like Khor Virap or Yerevan’s Cascade for stunning views of Mount Ararat, Armenia’s national symbol.
• Explore Yerevan : Wander the capital city, Yerevan, and its museums, parks, and vibrant cafes, and don’t miss Republic Square and Matenadaran.
• Visit Lake Sevan : Enjoy a day at Lake Sevan, swim, and explore the Sevanavank Monastery.
• Discover Ancient Petroglyphs : Explore the rock carvings and petroglyphs at Ughtasar and other archaeological sites.
• Attend a Lavash-Making Workshop : Learn the art of making Armenian lavash, an essential part of Armenian cuisine and culture.
• Tour Wineries : Visit local wineries and taste Armenian wines, including the famous Areni wine.
• Experience Armenian Hospitality : Stay with local families in rural areas and experience traditional Armenian hospitality.
• Shop at Local Markets : Explore local markets like Vernissage in Yerevan to buy souvenirs, art, and traditional crafts.
• Attend a Traditional Dance Show : Enjoy a performance of Armenian traditional dances and music to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Visit Vernacular Architecture : Explore villages like Areni, known for their traditional Armenian architecture and stone churches.
• Take a Scenic Drive : Drive along the winding roads of the Debed Canyon or explore Dilijan National Park for stunning natural beauty.
• Visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial : Pay your respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum in Yerevan to learn about this tragic part of history.
• Explore Lori Fortress : Visit Lori Berd (Lori Fortress), an impressive medieval castle overlooking the Debed River.
• Relax in Jermuk : Enjoy the hot springs and spa treatments in Jermuk, a popular health resort town.
• Join a Craft Workshop : Participate in craft workshops to learn traditional Armenian crafts like pottery and carpet weaving.
• Celebrate Armenian Holidays : If your visit coincides with Armenian holidays like Vardavar or Trndez, join in the celebrations and festivities.
• Witness Khachkars : Admire the intricately carved Armenian khachkars, cross-stones, found throughout the country.

Armenia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, Armenia has something for every type of tourist.

Culture and Safety 🦺

Traveling to Armenia as a tourist can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to understand the local culture and prioritize safety during your trip:

• Respect Local Customs : Armenians are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of tradition. Show respect for local customs and traditions, including religious practices, when visiting churches and monasteries.
• Greetings : A handshake and a smile are common ways to greet people. When entering someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine.
• Dress Modestly : While Armenia is generally quite liberal in terms of clothing, it’s advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering a church.
• Tipping : Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for services like taxis and tour guides. A tip of around 10% is customary.
• Learn Some Armenian Phrases : While many Armenians in urban areas speak English, learning a few basic Armenian phrases can go a long way in enhancing your travel experience and connecting with locals.
• Respect for Elders : Show respect for older people in Armenia, as they are highly regarded in the culture.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious in poorly lit or secluded areas at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps for transportation.
• Health and Hygiene : Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and practice good hygiene. Carry any necessary medications and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
• Traffic Safety : Be cautious when crossing the road, as traffic can be chaotic in some areas. Look both ways and use pedestrian crossings when available.
• Emergency Services : The emergency phone number in Armenia is 112, and operators typically speak Armenian and Russian.
• Travel Documents : Keep your passport, visa, and other important documents secure. Make copies of your travel documents and store them separately.
• COVID-19 Considerations : Be aware of any travel restrictions, safety protocols, and health guidelines related to COVID-19 that may be in place during your visit.
• Natural Disasters : Armenia is in an earthquake-prone region. Familiarize yourself with safety procedures in case of an earthquake.
• Local Laws : Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations, especially related to customs and immigration requirements.
• Currency Exchange : Use reputable currency exchange services or banks to exchange money. Be cautious when exchanging money on the street.
• Travel Advisory : Stay updated on the latest travel advisories and safety information for Armenia from your government’s travel website.

By respecting the local culture and taking basic safety precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience while traveling in Armenia. It’s also a good idea to stay informed about any specific travel advisories or changes in local conditions that may have occurred since my last knowledge update.

In conclusion, Armenia offers an enriching and diverse travel experience for tourists. With its ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, this South Caucasus gem invites visitors to explore its monasteries, enjoy its vibrant cities, and connect with its rich cultural heritage. Whether you seek adventure in the mountains or a taste of its delectable cuisine, Armenia promises a memorable and rewarding journey.

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Best of Armenia , Itineraries & Road Trips

2 incredible armenia itinerary options for first-time visitors.

This guide is all about planning the perfect Armenia itinerary for your trip! We offer two options for how to best spend 3, 6, or 7 days in Armenia regardless of what your travel style is!

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

Top Experiences and Tours In Armenia:

• Day trip to Khor Virap, Areni Winery and Noravank Monastery (from $34)
• Armenia: Private Tour to Khor Virap Monastery (from $37)
• Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin (from $90)
• From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour (from $39)

Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander (a luxury in Yerevan)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in Yerevan)
• 14th Floor (mid-range in Yerevan)
• Grand Hostel (budget 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.

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

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

Cultural Heritage Itinerary

• 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

• 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

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Day 1: 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 Hotel Options

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

Day 2: 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 the 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 Hotel Options

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

Day 3: Discover Yerevan

Take a day and explore Yerevan – the beautiful and charming capital 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 Hotel Options

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

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 being 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 of 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 sight’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.

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 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: 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 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 Hotel Options

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

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 Hotel Options

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

Day 7: 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

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Day 1: 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.

If you have time, Dilijan can definitely occupy you for more than one day. 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 .

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: 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:  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

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 Hotel Options

• Budget: Guest House Garni

Day 5: Areni-1 Cave, Noravank and Tatev Monasteries

The next day, you will have a bit of a 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

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: Back to Yerevan

On the last day, start making your way back to Yerevan.

You can make some worthwhile stops at places like 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!

Pin this Itinerary for Armenia

One thought on “ 2 Incredible Armenia Itinerary Options for First-Time Visitors ”

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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Armenia Travel Blog

Hello and welcome to our Armenia travel blog. You will find all our Armenia blog posts in this section of our website.

Maybe you found our Armenia travel blog because you are considering a visit to Armenia, or perhaps you are partway through planning a trip to the Caucasus. Whatever the reason, we hope we can provide some useful resources and travel tips for Armenia.

We’ve visited Armenia a handful of times and consider it one of our favourite countries. Armenia is a highly underrated travel destination and provides the perfect opportunity for independent travel without any tourist crowds. Armenia ticks plenty of boxes for us: beautiful scenery, ancient history, warm people, great food and, of course, an abundance of Soviet-era architecture and monuments.

Our Armenia blog posts are generally aimed at independent travellers and backpackers like us and have a strong focus on travelling around using public transport, staying in budget accommodation and exploring off-the-beaten-path and lesser-visited places.

Browse all of our Armenia blog posts

Abandoned Armenia: Fairy Tale Young Pioneer Camp in Spitak

by Mark | Oct 19, 2022

Our visit to the abandoned Young Pioneer Camp in Spitak, Armenia. A forgotten former Soviet children’s camp known as Fairy Tale.

Abandoned Armenia: The former Palace of Culture in Jermuk

by Mark | Sep 30, 2022

Exploring the abandoned former Palace of Culture in Jermuk in Armenia, and other remnants from Jermuk’s Soviet past, with a map of locations.

Armenia itinerary – What to see in Armenia in 2 weeks

by Kirsty | Feb 28, 2021

A two week Armenia Itinerary highlighting what to see in the Caucasus in Armenia in 2 or 3 weeks, including off-the-beaten-path places.

25 locations that could be part of a Wes Anderson movie set

by Kirsty | Jan 27, 2021

Accidentally Wes Anderson – a selection of our photographs which we think belong on a Wes Anderson movie set #AccidentallyWesAnderson

Abandoned Armenia: old amusement park in Dilijan

by Kirsty | Jul 26, 2020

Photographs of an old abandoned amusement park in Dilijan, Armenia. We came across these rusting playground rides in Dilijan city park in 2018.

In Photos: Abandoned cars and other forsaken forms of transport

by Mark | Jul 8, 2020

Photos abandoned cars and other battered vehicles. The faded beauty of neglected vehicles from the UK to Thailand, and Kyrgyzstan to Cuba.

Places to visit in Gyumri, Armenia

by Mark | May 14, 2020

Places to visit in Gyumri, Armenia. Caucasus travel guide highlighting what to do in Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, with a map of locations.

What to do in Yerevan (with a map of locations)

by Mark | Dec 23, 2019

A travel guide on what to do in Yerevan, Armenia with a map of locations, and including off-the-beaten-path ideas for alternative things to see in Yerevan.

In Photos: Magnificent Brutalist and Modernist Bus Stations

by Mark | Dec 5, 2019

Photos featuring ten of coolest brutalist and modernist bus stations we’ve spotted on our travels, highlighting some magnificent architecture.

A Short History of the Soviet Union from 1917 to 1991

by Mark | Nov 29, 2019

A short history of the Soviet Union from 1917 to 1991. A guide for those travellers to the former USSR who want to learn about the history of the region.

In Photos: Street Art in Abandoned Buildings

by Mark | Nov 3, 2019

Street art in abandoned buildings. Often urban exploration and street art go together. A photo essay featuring graffiti and street art in abandoned places.

In photos: twenty-five examples of Soviet modernism in the former USSR

by Mark | Apr 22, 2019

Photographs of some of the best examples of Soviet modernism in the former USSR, plus a brief explanation of this genre of architecture.

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Perfect armenia itinerary: 2 days to 2 weeks.

Heading to Armenia, but unsure how long you should travel there for?

This perfect Amrneia itinerary will show you how to spend anything from 2 days to 2 weeks in this country, so read on for the perfect guide to your time in this country.

Is it Asia, is it Europe?

The Middle East?

The Near East?

A country that defies definition in so many ways, Armenia is rapidly gaining a reputation as a hot travel favourite.

And is it any surprise?

Sandwiched between Iran and Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan, Armenia sits in the Caucasus region and boasts not only the friendliness, affordability and fantastic cuisine of its eastern influences, but also the stunning scenery and superb hiking of its northern neighbours!

What a combination!

But best of all, it’s still really only those intrepid nomads, with a strong sense of adventure, who are travelling to Armenia at the moment, which means the whole country definitely retains an unspoilt, uncommercialised and very authentic atmosphere.

As a small nation with a good international airport and visa-free options for many nationalities, Armenia is definitely accessible and incredibly safe, meaning even a trip for a few days is worthwhile!

You may not be surprised to learn therefore that I can HIGHLY recommend heading to Armenia and, to get you considering it further, here’s 5 trip schedules to help you plan your perfect Armenia itinerary – be it for 2 days or 2 weeks!

Related Posts

• The 10 Things to Do in Armenia
• How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Armenia?
• Top 25 Things To Do in the Caucasus Region

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2 Day Armenia Itinerary

With just 2 days in Armenia, you’re cutting things seriously short, but still have the time to glimpse a little of this warm, wonderful country

At the very least, it will have you preparing to come back and explore more I’m sure!

I’m including a 2 day itinerary here, because I know many people head down to Armenia for a short time at the end of their trip to Georgia.

Therefore, whether you’re arriving from Tbilisi (either via an overnight train or day time minivan ride) or flying into Armenia, you’re going to be arriving into the country’s capital – Yerevan.

As such, the best idea if you have just 2 days for your Armenia itinerary is to spend 1 day exploring the capital and the other heading out on a day trip.

Yerevan is not a city with a lot of sights, so if you’re looking to run around ticking big hits off your bucket list, you’re going to be disappointed.

But if you want to spend a relaxed day soaking up the ambience of this very chilled capital, enjoying its parks and squares, as well as its markets and cafes, you’re onto a winner.

Check out my list of the 21 best things to do in Yerevan for more ideas, otherwise just make sure you don’t miss the Genocide Memorial Complex , the Cascade area or Republic Square.

In the evening, sample delicious local wine at In Vino , craft beer at Darghett and yummy food at Tabloueh !

MGA Hostel is a great budget accommodation option in Yerevan. With both private rooms and dorms, they are centrally located (meaning it’s easy to explore the city from their doorstep) and they also organise day tours (which means it’s easy to get your second day lined up in Armenia without too much hassle).

There’s a ton of good day trips you could pick to enjoy on your second day in Armenia and while you could venture out an independent excursion, if you’re short on time and wanting to see as much as possible in this country, I’d honestly recommend an organised excursion, because it will save you the hours and hassle of trying to work it out and wait for the local minivans.

That said, you don’t want to go too far out of Yerevan on your trip (so you don’t spend all day just driving) which means that the best single-day excursions I’d recommend are either…

#1 Garni Temple, Symphony of Stones, Geghard Monastery & Lavosh Baking

#2 Lake Seven, Sevanavank Monastery, Dilijan National Park, Haghartsin Monastery & Getap

The more people you can get together in a car (max of 4 normally) the cheaper the per person price will be, so try to rope in some others at the hostel too!

The other option is to check out the tours run by Envoy Hostel . They have a couple of day trip options too (they keep a sign-up sheet running for those interested) and if you stay with them you get a discounted rate.

Either pop into their Yerevan hostel on Pushkin Street or give them a call on +374 10 530 369.

Failing that, you could head to Republic Square too, where lots of small tour operators hang out looking to fill up their vehicles or check out GetYourGuide for some great options too.

GettYourGuide are ideal if you want to book your day trip in advance and make sure you see as much on your short Armenia itinerary as possible.

5 Day Armenia Itinerary

With 5 days for your Armenia itinerary, you have a little bit more time to play with and to venture a little further afield into the rural beauty of this country.

I’d recommend following my 2 day Armenia itinerary as above, taking your first day to explore Yerevan, including its historic sights, its many green spaces and its great culinary offerings care of its cafes, coffee carts and local markets, as well as great restaurants and wine bars!

On day 2, take a day trip out to Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery and onto Dilijan where you can view the old part of town, as well as Haghartsin Monastery in the nearby National Park.

If time, the cable car at Tsaghkadzor is also worth a ride!

You’ll quickly learn they love a cable car in Armenia!

And don’t forget a meal or some drinks at Getap, which has a beautiful riverside setting just outside Dilijan.

In the evening, you could then either stay in the old historic quarter of Dilijan at Old Dili , or head to either Granby Hostel or Art Guest House.

Alternatively, you can return to Yerevan and spend the night back in the capital.

On day 3, it’s time to head south out of Yerevan to the nearby town of Goght where you should stay at 3G’s camping and guesthouse .

Sitting in between the wonderful attractions of Garni Temple and the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, you can get to Goght by taking minivan 5, 9, 23, 30 or 44 from France Square bus stop near the Opera House in central Yerevan to Gai Bus Station.

From Gai Bus Station, you then need to walk down the side of the Mercedes dealership to get minivan 264, 265, 266, 284 or 285.

These all go to Goght where the great 3G’s camping and guesthouse is located.

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool here and taking in the amazing view and beauty of this spot –  you can sightsee tomorrow!

Or, if you have time, you could even head out on a hike in the surrounding countryside.

Read my full travel guide to visiting Goght, Garni and Geghard for more info.

On day 4, it’s time to explore those historic sites around Goght, which was incidentally probably my favourite spot in the country.

3G’s camping and guesthouse is perfectly placed between both Geghard Monastery & Garni Temple so you can easily hitchhike, walk or hop on a marshrutka to them.

Geghard is a stunning Medieval monastery, where many local pilgrims still journey. You can grab some stunning shots of the amazing location here, especially in the morning.

Garni is a Greek Temple, so the is the perfect pre-Christian balance to Geghard.

There’s a small entrance fee to get in here – payable at the door – and then you can enjoy wandering straight into, up and around this ancient pillared structure.

Don’t forget to check out the traditional lavosh bread baking that takes place along the road near Geghard Monastery or the Symphony of Stones, which is an interesting rock formation located near Garni Temple.

If you don’t have internet data in Armenia, then I recommend downloading maps.me which you can use offline to help navigate this area.

Stay the night at 3G’s camping and guesthouse and enjoy this beautiful spot and conversations with the great hosts.

And on day 5, it’s time for you to head back to Yerevan, or if you have time, to squeeze a quick hike in too.

The best one, which starts right from the door of 3G’s camping and guesthouse is to the abandoned Monastery and will take you 5-6 hours.

Just ask Sandra, the lovely owner of 3G’s, for more info once you are there… and don’t forget maps.me!

1 Week Armenia Itinerary

If you’ve got 7 days to spend in Armenia, then congrats, because you’re definitely going to get a good flavour for this country!

Follow my 5 day Armenia itinerary above, spending nights 1 & 2 at MGA Hostel in Yerevan , followed by nights 3, 4 & 5 at 3G’s camping and guesthouse .

With all of this, you’ll already have explored the capital, Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Garni, Geghard and got to enjoy some hiking too!

On day 6 therefore, it’s then time to leave Goght and continue south down to visit Khor Virab, Areni and Noravank Monastery.

1 of the most famous destinations in the country, these can all be combined into one day if you get an early start!

Khor Virap is one of the most famous monasteries in Armenia and, perched on a hill, with snow-capped Mount Ararat in the background, it has become the flagship tourist image of this country too.

Getting here is easiest and quickest from Goght by taxi, otherwise, head back to Yerevan via a marshrutka and from there head out again on another minivan going to Areni.

These minivans will drive along the main road, so just get out at the turn-off to Khor Virab and grab one of the waiting taxis from there.

After you’ve snapped Khor Virab to your heart’s content, head back to the main road to grab a marshrutka (or hitch) to Areni.

Famous for its winemaking, take a wine tour in Areni, before finding a place to stay for the night here.

Then on your last night in Armenia, before you head to Yerevan, take a short detour to Noravank.

Again one of the most famous monasteries in Armenia, you can’t come as far as Areni and not visit this famous place.

Dating back to the 3rd century, it’s located within a deep gore, the red-brick walls of which tower behind this religious building.

There’s actually 3 churches here you can visit, which cna be found about a 10 minute drive from the main road.

A return taxi trip there from Areni won’t cost much and then you can hop on a marshrutka back to Yerevan in under 2 hours (its a journey of around 120km) !

10 Day Armenia Itinerary

With 10 whole days to explore Armenia, you really are going to get to see a huge swath of this country, including some of its most southerly provinces, which are often missed off many travellers’ schedules.

For my 10 day itinerary I recommend following the 1 week schedule above, but instead of heading back to Yerevan on day 8, continue south to the town of Goris via local minivan or hitchhiking!

Spend the night in Goris at Yeghevnut Hotel – a great little guesthouse for budget travellers that has really friendly (and English-speaking) hosts.

On day 9 of your Armenia itinerary, it’s time to explore around Goris, including the famous Tatev Monastery, which has the longest cable car ride in the world!

Armenia… who knew?!!

At the top of the cable car is, yes you guessed it, another famous monastery with a stunning clifftop setting!

If you get there early in the morning, you’ll also have time to discover the Medieval cave dwellings around Goris, too which reminded me of Cappadocia in Turkey , and make for a fascinating afternoon, as well as a great way to stretch those legs.

The complex starts about 30 minutes drive away from Goris and includes a 2-3km walk, part of which is over a suspension bridge!

The nearby waterfall at Shaki is also stunning if you have time.

Spend another night in Goris.

Now it’s time to head back to Yerevan, as this is likely to take you most of the day from Goris.

If you do happen to get back to the capital earlier than planned, then darting out quickly to check out the Zvartnots Cathedral is a nice way to spend an hour in the late afternoon.

Built in the 7th century, on a clear day, it has an amazing snow-capped Mount Ararat backdrop!

Take minibus #203 from Kilikia Bus Stati to get there, or hop in a local taxi.

Head back to Yerevan for your final eve and enjoy the light and fountain show in Republic Square, which happens throughout the summer months at 9pm… and is totally free!

2 Week Armenia Itinerary

And finally, with 2 weeks for your Armenia Itinerary, you can really get to explore the length and breadth of this country… which is fantastic news!

Go ahead and check out the 10 day Armenia itinerary I’ve written about above and follow that, heading back to Yerevan on Day 10 too.

On day 11, I would take more time to explore the capital, as there are a lot of hidden gems to discover here once you start to get under the skin of this place, including delightful carpet shops, hidden wine bars and fresh produce markets.

The best ones are in the southern part of the old centre – get comfortable shoes on and enjoy the stroll and getting lost!

On day 12, a trip out to Zvartnots Cathedral and the fabulous Saint Gayane church nearby makes for a great excursion you can easily (and cheaply) arrange.

The nearby Holy Etchmiadzin church is also good to visit – it’s actually the flagship place of worship in the country for Armenian Orthodox people and therefore well worth checking out.

Obviously, it’s also UNESCO-listed!

This is Armenia after all!

Today, it’s time to change direction and head north out of Yerevan towards the famous monasteries around the town of Alaverdi, which lies in the north of the country.

Again UNESCO-listed, the Sanahin Monastery Complex is particularly stunning.

You can either visit it as part of an organised trip or as part of a shuttle service care of Envoy Hostel, who run trips to this destination every Friday en route to Georgia, or book in advance through GetYourGuide .

From the north, you can easily continue onto Georgia with either Envoy Hostel’s tour or via a local marshrutka.

The Georgia – Armenia border actually lies just north of Alaverdi and can easily be reached by a marshrutka, which then will shuttle you onto Tbilisi.

This border crossing is actually one of the easiest I’ve ever made, so it will likely be a quick and simple process.

Don’t forget I did it all safely as a solo female too.

Alternatively, if you’re not continuing the adventure north, return to Yerevan to catch your flight home.

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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 to Get Around Armenia?

Due to a lack of tourist infrastructure and some poor road conditions in parts, getting around Armenia can be a little tricky.

Public minivans, known as marshrutkas, are the cheapest way to go, but they only ply main roads and generally operate only to and from the capital.

To make matters a little more complicated, there are 6 marshrutka stations across Yerevan and finding out which buses leave from which stations is an adventure in itself!

Check out this useful website , which had the most current info I found online, otherwise ask where you’re staying for the latest details, as the often buses often change stations!

To combat the confusing minivan situation however, the good news is that hitchhiking is easy and commonplace across rural Armenia – often you’ll be picked up on the street without even having to stick your thumb out!

Failing all of the above, guided day trips or private taxis will happily shuttle you to most major tourist sites around the country. If you can get a group together this can be a surprisingly cost-effective option.

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 top 5 ideas for your Armenia itinerary.

Is this country on your list yet?

Are you thinking of travelling there soon?

Don’t hesitate to let me know any questions you may have in the comments box below 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

4 thoughts on “ Perfect Armenia Itinerary: 2 Days to 2 Weeks ”

Hey Steph, this is a really great breakdown of where to visit in Armenia. We were lucky enough (and crazy enough!) to spend a week road tripping around there earlier this year and absolutely loved Areni and Tatev! You’ve given us some awesome inspiration for our next trip, thanks 🙂

So wonderful to hear Ashlea, isn’t such a fab country? Delighted you had a good time there and great to know you are looking forward to your next trip too. May be see you there! Steph 🙂

Are you sure there are flights from Istanbul? Borders are closed for decades.

Land borders closed yes, but not air ones – although recent unrest in Armenia late 2020 may have changed this since the article was first published 🙂

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Armenia Travel Guide

Updated February 2024 ,  The Armenia Travel Guide was originally written in August 2018

Straddling Europe and Asia in the South Caucuses, Armenia is a real treat for those that venture into its borders. Without much thought and no planning, I hopped on a marshrutka in Tbilisi bound for Yerevan, not expecting Armenia to become an instant favorite. Really all I had known about Armenia prior to visiting was the Armenian genocide, that the country was a part of the USSR, Armenian Orthodoxy, that I liked the way their curly alphabet looked, and that System of a Down’s members are all of Armenian descent.

Obviously, I knew there was going to be a little more to it than that, and I was pleasantly surprised. Come here to explore monasteries, mountain scenes, and a little-visited breakaway region.

But Armenia has a long tumultuous history. From the 16th-19th centuries, Armenia was jostled between the Ottoman Empire and the Iranian Empire. In the 19th century, the Russians had come to control eastern Armenia, while the west was still under Ottoman control.

Between 1915 and 1923 1.5 million Armenians were exterminated or expelled during the Armenian Genocide at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Turkey still refuses to recognize this atrocity as genocide.

Eventually, Armenia would become a founding state within the USSR as the Transcaucasian SSR and eventually the Armenian SSR. In 1991 Armenia gained independence.

At the time of independence, Armenia was already involved in the Karabakh War backing the Armenian ethnic majority of Artsakh (then Nagorno-Karabakh) against Azeri forces.

Though, it wasn’t until 1992 that the conflict went full-scale war in the mountainous region. Azerbaijan put a halt to train and air transit to Armenia, effectively crippling the economy. Turkey quickly followed suit.

By 1994 a Russian cease-fire was signed, though the situation remains unresolved. Artsakh is a de facto independent state, not recognized as its own country internationally, but as a part of Azerbaijan. The only access point to Artsakh at this point in time is via Armenia, but you should visit Azerbaijan first as Azerbaijan will recognize your visit to Artsakh as having entered Azeri territories illegally.

In 2018 Armenia underwent a revolution. As this was only a few months after I first visited Armenia, I had first heard about it through Armenian friends I’d made and followed it after.

Serzh Sargsyan, who had served two terms as president of Armenia from 2008-2018 at the end of his second term he announced he would step in as the prime minister of Armenia. Armenians recognized this power grab (likely after they’ve watched the tendency for forever-presidency among other post-Soviet nations) and took to the streets of Yerevan in protest after the detainment of opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan. 11 days of non-violent protests and civil disobedience ensued before Sargsyan resigned.

Armenia and its people remain resilient after its turbulent recent history. But because of this turbulence, Armenia is still in its early days of tourism. Which is not a bad statement, however, travel in Armenia might be a little daunting for less experienced travelers.

In this Armenia travel guide, you’ll find all the information you need to plan the perfect trip.

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Khosrov preserve, dabed canyon, khndzoresk bridge.

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Quick Armenia Travel Info

Currency : The Dram is the currency used in Armenia. The current exchange rate in  February 2024  is  $1 USD = 406 AMD .

Language : Armenian is the official language. Russian is still widely understood as Armenia was a republic of the Soviet Union. English is becoming more and more popular with the younger generations.

There are dialects of Armenian spoken and minority languages such as Kurmanji ( Kurdish ), Assyrian, and Greek in the country as well. I was able to get by easily in English and Russian (though I did make attempts at learning Armenian phrases, and butchered it massively!).

Religion : Armenian Orthodox

What To Wear : Armenians dress like most Europeans. Women’s hair should be covered and long skirts worn when entering churches ( many times there’s a bin of loner scarves and tie-on skirts near the entrance ).

How Long To Visit Armenia : One nice thing is that Armenia is a smaller country in size. You can hit most the highlights within a week and won’t be bored if you extend a trip to two weeks or more.

When To Visit Armenia : Late June through August is very hot in Armenia as it’s summertime. May, early June, September, and early October are great times to visit with pleasant temperatures. Winter in Armenia is beautiful, but dress warm.

Get In : You’ll enter Armenia by road or by air.

By flight: Yerevan Airport has direct connections with cities in Europe and the Middle East.  Shop flights to Yerevan here .

By road: Armenia borders Georgia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. Entering from Turkey and Azerbaijan is impossible. There are border crossings with Georgia and Iran. Note: You can only enter Nagorno-Karabakh from Armenia.

Visas : Many countries can visit Armenia visa-free for 90-180 days or by visa on arrival and e-visa.

Get Around : The best way to get around Armenia is by renting a car or joining day tours as many of the sites you’ll want to reach are a pain to reach by public transport. Marshrutka and buses connect most cities and larger towns, but reaching more remote areas are difficult to non-existent by marshrutka and bus. Hitchhiking is possible and usually safe.

*I have included information on Nagorno-Karabakh (newly renamed the Republic of Artsakh) because Nagorno-Karabakh can only be accessed from Armenia.

Armenian Food

Food and wine is a highlight of traveling Armenia. Most food is fresh and locally grown. Things to try are:

Lavash : A very thin, very giant flatbread that is served with everything in Armenia. Lavash also make great food transport: I watched a shop in Stepanakert wrap a full-size rotisserie chicken in one and hand it to a customer.

Khatchupuri : A delicious cheese bread that’s also served up in neighboring Georgia .

Armenian String Cheese : Salty, stringy white cheese typically made from sheep’s milk. It can be made of goat or cow milk as well.

Harissa : A creamy porridge usually of wheat and meat mixed together.

Dried Fish : Fish is a common dish in Armenia, even though it’s a landlocked country. Trout is a common fish eaten.

Dzhash : An Armenian soup of vegetables, spices, and meat or a legume.

Kabob : Meat skewers you’ll find dished up all over the country.

What To See & Do in Armenia

• Explore Monasteries
• Trekking & Camping
• Visit A Country That Doesn’t Exist
• Take a road trip. Check out my  3 day Armenia & Nagorno-Karabakh road trip itinerary here

Where To Go In Armenia

Central armenia.

The capital of Armenia and biggest city. Make sure to check out the Yerevan Cascade, Republic Square, Tsitsernakaberd, and Matanedarin…  just to name a few!

Where To Sleep In Yerevan

Hostel Vagary |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Art Guesthouse Yerevan |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Golden Palace Boutique Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Yerevan Tours

See the best of what Yerevan has to offer in this  Yerevan City Tour

The religious center of Armenia. Come here to visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral, which is often regarded as the oldest cathedral in the world. Other sites include S. Hripsime Cathedral and S. Gayane Church.

Where To Sleep In Echmiadzin

Machanents Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Echmiadzin Tours

Explore Echmiadzin and Zvarnots by tour from Yerevan

The largest lake in Armenia, located at 2,000m. Laze on the beaches in summer and visit its monasteries.

Hayranivank : Monastery and largest khachkar cemetery in the world.

Sevanavank : A lovely monastery perched above the shores of Lake Sevan.

Where To Sleep In Sevan

Lake Sevan Hostel |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Mountain Lake Villa B&B |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Lavash Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Lake Sevan Tours

From  food tours, to sailing, to sightseeing  there’s a tour to suit just about any interest around Lake Sevan

If you want to see the biodiversity of the Caucasus, Khosrov is where to go. Home to 1/3 of the flora in the Caucasus region. Horseback riding and hiking are the best way to explore this massive forest. Don’t forget to visit the Temple of Garni, and Kakavaberd Fortress. Khosrov makes a great day trip from Yerevan as it’s only 20km west of the city.

Northern Armenia

Shamshadin & tavush region.

Explore Armenia’s lush green hills, monasteries and villages in this region. Home to the city of Dilijan, often called “Little Switzerland”. Areas in the northeast along the Azerbaijani border are still landmined from the war, do not explore this area without a knowledgeable guide that knows the area well.

Where To Sleep In Dilijan

Eco House & Camp |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Gokor B&B |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Hotel Dilijan Resort |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

You can easily visit the  Tavush Region by day trip from Yerevan  as well as by a  2 night camping tour

Dilijan is a lovely area to get out into the Armenian nature and mountains. With heaps of hikes to ancient monasteries, beautiful lakes, mountain summits, and more, Dilijan is a nature lover’s dream.

Read: Dilijan National Park & Travel Guide | How to get to Dilijan from Yerevan | The Tripeak Hike

An epicenter of Armenian culture and history. You will likely pass through the canyon on the way down or headed to Georgia as the main road connection passes through Dabed Canyon. This is a great place to explore if you’re not yet suffering from monastery fatigue as it’s littered with them.

Where To Sleep In Alaverdi

Parisis B&B Alaverdi |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Palma |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

You can find  day tours from Yerevan to Dabed Canyon sights including Sanahin & Haghpat Monasteries, Lori Fortress, and the Alphabet Monument

Looking for ideas for things to do in neighboring Georgia? Don’t miss the Rkoni Monastery Complex

Southern Armenia

The main draw for those coming to Tatev is the Tatev Monastery. You can take a tram, the Wings of Tatev, to reach the monastery from the town of Halizdor. 4,000 AMD rt/3,000 AMD one way, an additional 2,000 AMD for an audio guide.

Where To Sleep In Halidzor

Harsnadzor Eco Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Wings of Tatev Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Where To Sleep In Tatev

Saro’s B&B Tatev |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Aida’s B&B |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

There are day tours that visit Tatev and other sights in Armenia’s south from  Yerevan  as well as from  Goris

A small city in Armenia with a cemetery fringed by interesting rockforms and caves scattered up a rolling hillside. Goris is a great place to base yourself for exploring southern Armenia at a slower pace.

Where To Sleep In Goris

Lovely Goris |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Zanger Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Hotel Mirhav |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |  Agoda.com  |

A monastery in the Ararat Plain with stunning views of Mt. Ararat and one of the most recognizable photographed locations in Armenia. Easily visited from Yerevan.

Khor Virap is a common stop on  group tours from Yerevan including Noravank & Areni Winery . Private tours to  Khor Virap from Yerevan  are on offer as well

A 13th century monastery on the Amaghu River. A common stop on many day tours to the south of Armenia.

Where To Sleep In Yeghegnadzor

Karine B&B |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Guesthouse Nataly |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Greenstone B&B |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

Check out this  Southern Armenia day tour from Yerevan  that includes Noravank as well as a number of other great stops

A rural Armenian village with a swinging bridge across a massive gorge. The bridge connects the two sides of the village on either side of the gorge. On the other side, you’ll find a monastery, ruins, caves, walnut trees, and usually a friendly local or two. 

The best base for exploring the Khndzoresk area is from Goris. Khndzoresk is also known for its hoodoo rock formations similar to some in Cappadocia,  Kandovan  (Iran), and  Goblin Valley  (Utah).

Check out this  day tour from Yerevan  including Khndzoresk Bridge, Tatev & Karahunj, or this  day trip from Goris  to Khndzoresk

Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)

The newly renamed Republic of Artsakh ( formerly Nagorno-Karabakh ) is a region claimed by Azerbaijan, but only accessible from Armenia. You can explore the area independently or by tour. Unfortunately, travel in Artsakh isn’t exactly possible in 2021, and much damage has been caused to a number of the following destinations.

Read my  3 Day Nagorno-Karabakh Road Trip  to start planning your own visit

Nagorno-Karabakh Tours

Explore Nagorno-Karabakh by a  3 day/2 night tour from Yerevan , or see the best of Armenia & Nagorno-Karabakh on an  8 day tour , or a  10 day tour

Stepanakert

The capital of the Nagorno-Karabakh ( recently renamed Republic of Artsakh ). Easily walkable, with plenty of restaurants and shops. After you cross the border into Artsakh you’ll be instructed by the border officers to go to Stepanakert to get your visa. Head to the fringes of the city to see the iconic Tatik-Papik Monument.

Visas are now given free of charge at the border with Armenia. Should you need it, the MFA address in Stepanakert is 28 Azatamartikneri Street and phone number:  +374 47941418 .

Visas used to cost 3,000 AMD for most nationalities for a 21 day tourist visa. They will just hand you the visa, ( good to ask them to not put it in your passport, just in case ). If you have evidence in your passport of visiting Artsakh/Nagorno-Karabakh and try to go to Azerbaijan later you will be denied entry, or possibly thrown in jail.

Where To Sleep In Stepanakert

There aren’t too many hotels in Stepanakert. Armenia Hotel and Hotel Europe are a couple of options. You can shop a full list of Stepanakert accommodations  here .

Explore Stepanakert & Shusha by day trip from Goris

A fortified city mostly destroyed during the Nagorno-Karabakh War of the 1990’s. Make sure to check out the Ghazanchetsots Cathedral. You can hike the Janapur Trail from Shusha that will take you into Hunyot Canyon, Zontik Falls, and beyond.

Explore Shusha & Stepanakert by day trip from Goris

Zontik Falls

Located in Hunyot Canyon. Once to the trailhead it’s about a 20 minute walk along a trail to the fairytale like waterfall. This is my absolute favorite waterfall in the world.

A town near Sarsang Reservoir. Martakert was on the front lines of fighting between Azeri and Armenian forces.

Where To Sleep In Martakert

Much like the rest of Nagorno-Karabakh, accommodation options are small. Shop Martakert accommodations  here .

Sarsang Reservoir

A large lake not for from  Martakert  in the countryside. Great for camping and stargazing.

A ghost town nicknamed the “Hiroshima of Azerbaijan”. The city was destroyed during the Nagorno-Karabakh War. The few that come to Aghdam come to see the ruins and old mosque.

Nagorno-Karabakh officials advise not to visit given that Aghdam is right on the border with Azerbaijan. Aghdam usually is off-limits to tourists, so if the military does turn you around, act as if you got lost. Note that this is more of a ‘dark tourism’ attraction and is not for everyone.

Aghdam is about 30 minutes by taxi from Stepanakert. You can usually hire a taxi for a trip out here from Stepanakert for about 8,000 AMD

A small village north of Stepanakert. The main draw is to hike to the Gandzasar Monastery. The hike takes about 1 hour and gives panoramic views of Vank and the surrounding mountain range.

Trekking In Armenia

Armenia is a paradise for hikers with plenty of mountains, rolling hills, canyons, and forests.

• Mount Adzhadak
• Janapur Trail
• Mount Khustup
• Lori Canyon
• Mount Aragats
• Gandzasar Monastery

Armenian Festivals

• Mulberry Festival
• Vartavar Festival
• Carpet Festival
• BBQ Art & Music Festival
• Gata Festival
• Areni Wine Festival
• Honey & Bee Festival

Travel Armenia By Tour

There are plenty of tours offered in Armenia from day trips that will bring you back to Yerevan every evening to multi-day trips around the country.  Shop Armenian tours here .

Armenia Travel Budget

One of the many reasons why Armenia is awesome is because it’s such an inexpensive destination. Of course the sky is the limit, but my trip in Armenia cost me so little I couldn’t believe it. I paid the equivalent of $4 for a night in a very nice and centrally located hostel in Yerevan and pennies for veggies at a shop in Stepanakert.

7,250 AMD/$15 USD Per Day

Staying in hostels & camping while in the countryside, preparing your own meals, travel by marshrutka

14,500 AMD/$30 USD Per Day

Staying in double rooms, eating at cafes, traveling by marshrutka and taking some day tours

30,000 AMD/$60 USD + Per Day

Staying in luxurious rooms, dining at finer restaurants, traveling by private car hire and taking tours around the country

Packing List

You won’t need to pack anything special with you to Armenia that you wouldn’t pack to most destinations in Europe. I’d recommend picking up a copy of Bradt’s Armenia guidebook to aid in planning your visit. If you plan to camp and/or trek you may want to bring the following:

• 3 Season tent
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking Boots
• Lightweight cooking camp set
• Water Purifier
• Hydration Reservoir
• Trekking Poles
• Rain jacket  &  Rain pants
• Inreach Explorer+
• Solar Charger  &  External battery pack
• Medications & Toiletries

Internet & Mobile

Many accommodations in Armenia will offer wifi and it’s easy and cheap to buy sim cards from Ucom, Vivacell, and Beeline. In Nagorno-Karabakh, wifi isn’t very fast and the only Armenian sim card that will work is Vivacell. Nagorno-Karabakh does have its own carrier called Karabakh Telecom and you can purchase sims in Stepanakert.

Health & Safety

Overall Armenia is a safe country. Use usual precautions as you would anywhere in the world and you’ll likely be fine. There are areas in the northeast along the Azerbaijan border and in Nagorno-Karabakh along the Azerbaijan border that do still have landmines so walking and trekking in these areas are not recommended. In Nagorno-Karabakh do not go east beyond the Martakert-Martuni Highway as this is the cease-fire line.

Have Any Questions Not Answered In This Armenia Travel Guide?

Ask in the comments below!

Need Travel Insurance for Armenia?

Start shopping plans over at  battleface , my go-to travel insurance choice, or over at  World Nomads .

More Posts from Armenia:

Armenia Travel Guide: Monasteries, Mountains & A Disputed Territory

3 Day Nagorno-Karabakh Road Trip

How to Get to Khor Virap Monastery, Armenia

The Best Road Trips In The World

Dilijan Travel Guide + Best Things to do in Dilijan, Armenia 

How to get to Dilijan from Yerevan (and Vanadzor)

Crossing the Georgia-Armenia Border by Marshrutka

Hiking the Tripeak Trail in Dilijan National Park, Armenia

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Foes Azerbaijan and Armenia Agree 'Historic' Return of Villages

Foes Azerbaijan and Armenia Agree 'Historic' Return of Villages

A man rides a horse along a road near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border outside the village of Kornidzor, Armenia, September 23, 2023. REUTERS/Irakli Gedenidze/File Photo

By Nailia Bagirova

BAKU (Reuters) -Armenia has agreed to return several villages to Azerbaijan in what both sides said on Friday was an important milestone as they edge towards a peace deal after fighting two wars since the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Aykhan Hajizada posted on X that Armenia would return four villages near the countries' shared border that had been "under occupation" since the early 1990s, and called it a "long-awaited historic event".

In Armenia, the state news agency quoted the prime minister's office as saying: "In this process, the Republic of Armenia receives a reduction in risks associated with border delimitation and security."

It said the handover in practice involved only "two and a half villages" because Azerbaijan already partly controlled the settlements involved, but added that the demarcation of the border was a "significant event".

The settlements are deserted but are strategically important as they are close to Armenia's main highway north towards the border with Georgia, through which much of its trade is done, and to the pipeline through which it receives gas from Russia.

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The agreement was reached at a meeting on the two countries' border, chaired by their deputy prime ministers.

Azerbaijan has been demanding the villages' return as a precondition for a peace deal after more than three decades of conflict, mostly centred on the region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Momentum shifted dramatically in favour of Azerbaijan last September when its forces staged a lightning offensive to regain control of Karabakh, where ethnic Armenians had enjoyed de facto independence since the mid-1990s. Virtually the entire population of 100,000 people fled to Armenia within days.

Russia posted peacekeeping troops in Nagorno-Karabakh after the last major war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in 2020, but said this week it had begun withdrawing them. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev is due to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday.

Russia, distracted by its war in Ukraine, risks losing influence in the Caucasus region which it sees as its historic sphere of influence. The United States and the European Union have also been pressing the two sides to reach a peace deal.

(Writing by Mark Trevelyan, editing by Felix Light ad Timothy Heritage)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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