unique places to visit in armenia

20 places to visit in Armenia that aren’t churches – The best attractions in Armenia

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Armenia! This beautiful old country, full of history and wonder… and churches! But there are a bunch of things to do in Armenia that are not churches. Not many people know about them… we can’t blame them. But the landmarks in Armenia are some of the most impressive we’ve seen. So we wanted to shine a light on these amazing places to visit in Armenia.

We’re never surprised about how curious people get about Armenia. Not many people know where it is or can point to it on a map. Things are slowly changing for this country as more and more people are starting to explore the Caucasus and adding Armenia to their list. And we can’t blame them. Armenia is awesome!

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Table of Contents

Why are so many of the attractions in Armenia churches?

Being the first country in the world to accept Christianity as a state religion in AD 301, it’s no surprise that the most famous sites in Armenia here are churches . Impressive, we know, but there is so much more to this magical place than the monasteries, churches and chapels! 

They say that there are over 4,000 monasteries in Armenia. In fact, the city of Ani, currently located in Turkey, was said to be the city of a thousand churches. But we understand that not everyone is in Armenia to visit the churches. Lucky for you, there are a ton of other tourist spots in Armenia!

How to get to the best tourist spots in Armenia

There are plenty of ways to get to these amazing places in Armenia. But the truth is, most of these Armenian landmarks and attractions are off the beaten path. And because of the mountainous terrain in Armenia, they are longer to get to.

One of the best ways to get around in Armenia is by car. Car rental is readily available in Armenia and it’s going to help you get to these tourist attractions easily, quickly and based on your own schedule.

If not, there are plenty of sightseeing tours in Armenia . These groups will take you around in comfort and ease. They’ll also provide guides so you can learn more about these historical sites in Armenia. We recommend these tours, especially for certain places that are far away. The roads are long and you don’t want to fall asleep on the winding roads of Armenia.

If not, we have a whole article to help you navigate around Armenia . We cover everything from buses, trains, flights and more.

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Armenia, we have a ton of articles to help you plan your trip: – The best things to do in Yerevan – The ultimate 2-week itinerary in Armenia – The best restaurants in Yerevan – Amazing day trips from Yerevan – The best churches in Armenia – How to get around and travel in Armenia

The 20 best places to visit in Armenia that aren’t churches

It was really important for us to show you all the different and unique places to visit in Armenia. We want to highlight some of the lesser-known Armenian landmarks and historical sights. Armenia has so many must-sees – we don’t want you to miss out! So here they are!

1. Visit Karahunj astronomical observatory, one of the most famous Armenian historical sights

Welcome to what is suspected to be the oldest astronomical observatory in the world! Before Stonehenge, there was Karahunj or Zorats Karer . It’s a prehistoric archaeological site near the town of Sisian. As its name indicates in Armenian, these are Speaking Stones or Standing Stones.

Actually, this is one of the Armenian tourist attractions that is off the beaten path, so often, you will have this place for yourself. It’s really a great way to take the place in.

The site is made of six different parts: the central circle, the north arm, the south arm, the North-East alley, the chord (crossing the circle) and separate standing stones. There are a total of 223 stones of which 80 have circular holes. After many studies, it was found that 17 of the stones were associated with observations of sunrise or sunset at the solstices and equinoxes, and 14 with the lunar extremes.

There’s so much history and mystic coolness associated with this place. It’s almost like you can feel the energy when you’re there. We highly recommend you stop by on your way to Tatev, another Armenian landmark that is on our list of places to visit in Armenia.

You can visit this amazing tourist spot in Armenia on a 2-day tour. We recommend taking the time to go to this attraction on a longer tour because a day trip will actually take up 13-14 hours… if there aren’t any traffic, construction, or delays along the way. With an overnight stay, you don’t need to rush, and you’ll be much more relaxed.

2. Visit Noraduz, the oldest cemetery in Armenia, and the largest collection of khatchkars

Noraduz cemetery is a medieval cemetery with a large number of early khachkars that date back to the 9th century. The cemetery is still in use today and is located in the village of Noraduz, Gegharkunik Province, the same province as Lake Sevan. You can easily visit this location on a day trip from Yerevan .  

The cemetery holds the largest cluster of khachkars in the Republic of Armenia. It is currently the largest surviving cemetery with khachkars following the destruction of the khachkars in the Old Djulfa cemetery in Nakhichevan, by the government of Azerbaijan. That used to be the largest collection, over 28,000 cross-stones, some dating back to the 6th century, but it was destroyed completely in 2005. 

Walking around the cemetery, you can see how the style of tombstones has changed over the centuries. From traditional blooming crosses to scenes of everyday life, you will find so many intricately designed stones in the cemetery. The oldest tombstones are toward the bottom of the cemetery, many of them have shifted with the ground over the years. Don’t be surprised if you stumble by some old skeletons, as it’s been known to happen. 

You will also find one special tombstone, that of Father Garabed. Legend has it that Father Garabed lived to be very old, but never feared death. His dying wish was to be buried alive so that he can show others that death is not to be feared. He said that anyone who drinks from his grave will be washed of their fears as well. This is why you’ll find broken bottles on his grave. The tradition is that you must pour water over his grave and drink the water, then break the bottle.

Like we mentioned, going to Noraduz is best done on a sightseeing tour to Lake Sevan. If you don’t have your own car, we recommend taking a tour to visit this historical landmark in Armenia.

3. Fly on the Wings of Tatev, one of the most unique places to visit in Armenia (and the world)

Ok, this one is to get to a church , but it’s still a unique thing to do in Armenia and the world! The Wings of Tatev are the record holder for the world’s longest reversible ropeway, at 5,752 m. If you’re not afraid of highs, this is a must-see tourist attraction in Armenia.

With epic views over the valley, this ropeway will take you to the beautiful Tatev Monastery. If you don’t want to see the church, that’s ok too! You can go hiking in the area, do some wine-tasting, or even go paragliding!

If you do want to visit Tatev, know that it is a popular tourist spot in Armenia. Some tour companies will recommend you book your ticket in advance. In fact, if you are visiting on a weekend, or a really lovely day, we suggest you do book a spot, as it tends to fill up.

If you would like to visit the Tatev ropeway, there are plenty of tours that will take you there, and include some of the best churches and tourist attractions in Armenia.

4. Explore the caves of Khndzoresk, one of Armenia’s landmarks

Welcome to one of Armenia’s historical landmarks. But beware – access to this site requires a strong heart. So if you’re not afraid of heights and wondering what to do in Armenia, this is the place for you.

The swinging bridge to get to the caves of Khndzoresk is not for the faint. Be warned that this bridge swings and bounces quite a lot. But if you can cross it, it’s quite awesome!

Khndzoresk is a village and rural community in the South-East of Armenia, right by Goris. There, you have an amazing view of the steep slopes of Khor Dzor (Deep Gorge).

Khndzoresk is an old village that has been built into the side of the mountains. With caves and ruins still there for you to explore, it’s quite a sight. It’s such a cool place and well worth the detour if you go to Tatev, Goris and Artsakh. 

This place is really off the beaten path in Armenia, thick makes it even more amazing. It was inhabited until the 1950’s. What’s even better is that despite being a top attraction in Armenia, there are no tourists around, especially around sunset. How freakin’ cool! There are so many points of interest in Armenia that are not churches and that are simply unique!

The trek down to the bridge is a long set of stairs (they feel even longer on the way up). You can take a taxi to get back to the main road, though if you’re slightly fit, you don’t need to. The steps there make it a pretty easy hike.

There are tours available to take you to Khndzoresk and include many other stops in the area. If you’re not renting a car , it’s the best way to get to this Armenian landmark.

5. Explore Areni-1, the oldest wine cave in the world, a must-see in Armenia

The Areni-1 is an old bird cave that was explored for archeological digging. It is said to be the oldest wine-making facility found in the world. This cave is home to unique birds that are under environmental protection. It is also home to so many significant archeological findings. 

In 2007, they started excavating inside the cave, and excavation work is still going on. Today, there are Armenian, American, and Irish teams digging there. There were many findings that were made, but the most noteworthy was in 2010, when they found a 5,400-year-old leather shoe here. It is the oldest leather shoe found in the world, predating those found at Stonehenge and other archaeological digs in the world. 

You won’t find the shoe at the Areni-1 cave, but instead, at the History Museum of Armenia . They also found many different jars and containers here. In those jars, they found remains of seeds from grapes, pomegranates, blood, and other human remains. It gave archeologists insights as to the type of sacrifices that were done here, mainly because they found a number of burial sites dating back to 5000 – 4000 BCE here.

Another noteworthy finding here was a human skull of a pre-teen, with the brain tissue almost intact. They are currently doing studies on it to learn more about it. What we do know is that this is the oldest example of the Neolithic brain ever discovered. 

Areni-1 is one of the rarest and best-preserved late Chalcolithic (Copper Age) monuments in the South Caucasus. The findings here and the studies conducted help us understand the peculiarities of the material culture in the 5th-4th millennium BCE. They also show us that wine-production in Armenia has at least a 6,000 year history. 

There is a small fee to pay to get into the Areni-1 cave. It’s very close to Noravank monastery , in the Vayots Dzor region. It’s a perfect stop on a day trip from Yerevan .

Again, if you don’t have your own rental car, you can visit these Armenian historical landmarks by joining a tour. They will also, as always, take you to nearby churches, but they’re lovely, so we recommend joining one of these tours.

6. Explore Armenia’s traditions on a tour, one of the best things to do in Armenia

Armenia is a beautiful country full of natural riches and traditions. We had a great time doing various tours of some of the country’s exports. The typical tour is a wine tasting. The Areni region is known for producing great wines, so find a wine you like and go do a wine tasting at their vineyards. 

If wine is not your thing, then you can head to the Ararat brandy distillery and get a crash course in the tradition of brandy making in Armenia.

Next, you have the traditional carpet-making tour . We had a great time exploring the Megerian Carpet factory near Yerevan. We learned how they make these carpets with the traditional Armenian double knot, visited their museum and warehouse, and so much more. It was super interesting. We highly recommend you do this Armenian must-see!

And finally, for those who love natural and organic cosmetic products, you can tour the beautiful Nairian lab and production facility. We had a wonderful time seeing what plants and herbs are used to make their natural products. They even have a shop where you can try their products and buy them.

Ok, so we know that these were actually three things to do in Armenia when sightseeing, but we’re just trying to give you more reasons to go!

7. Hike to Shaki waterfalls, one of the best sightseeing things to do in Armenia

This little waterfall is just magic. You need to hike a short 5 minutes to get to it, but it is gorgeous. Lush and abundant, it’s somewhat surprising to find this waterfall in an arid Armenia. But there it is, tucked in a beautiful natural setting, on your way to Tatev. The Shaki waterfalls were one of our favorite places of interest in Armenia.

There are plenty of tables and places to hang out before getting to the waterfall, so do as the locals do and set up a little BBQ. It’s the perfect setting to take in the surrounding beauty. Unlike the locals, pick up your trash when you leave. This place is too beautiful not to care for it.

Without your own means of transportation, Shaki waterfall is hard to get to. If you don’t have a rental car, we recommend going on one of these Armenian sightseeing tours.

8. Check the Letters monument, a must-see place to visit in Armenia

One of the coolest things to do in Armenia is to check out the Letters Monument. Located near Abaran, in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, not too far from Ohanavank and Saghmosavank monasteries, is one of the newest landmarks in Armenia. The Letters monument was created in 2005, to commemorate the 1,600th anniversary of the creation of the Armenian alphabet. 

Erected in the middle of the field are the 39 letters of the Armenian alphabet. The alphabet was invented in 405 by Mesrop Mashdots, and Armenians will proudly say how it has not been modified, except adding ‘yev’ ‘o’ and ‘phe’. Quite a rare thing for an alphabet that is this old. 

Before the use of this alphabet, Armenians used Cuneiform script that was read all over Mesopotamia. They then moved on to other scripts, including the Mehenian alphabet, but it was very complicated, with over 300 signs in all. Armenians then used a mix of Assyrian and Greek alphabets. 

It was Vrhamshaboo who asked Mesrop Mashdots to create the Armenian alphabet. Mashdots started traveling all around the world to research alphabets and came back to show his new alphabet. Although the romanticized version of the story says that Mashdots saw the hand of God draw the alphabet for him in a dream. 

When the new alphabet was shown, it was quickly taught in new schools, which lead to a huge spike in literacy, with the majority of the population being able to read and write. The Bible was also translated into the new Armenian alphabet, which lead to religion becoming more popular. 

Make sure you find the letter that matches your initials to take a picture in front of it. You can also check out the statues of the prominent Armenian figures that stand behind the letters. As well as the huge cross of crosses, which was created in honor of Armenia being the first Christian nation.

There is not much around the Alphabet monument, but luckily, there are tours that will take you there one the way to other tourist spots in Armenia. Depending on what you’re in the mood to see, there is a tour for you. Some visit nearby churches, while others focus more on natural landmarks.

9. Hike the many trails of the country, one of the best things to do in Armenia

Armenia is slowly getting noticed for its amazing hiking trails. Through valleys, mountains, and beautiful scenery, there are so many trails that run deep through this country. Best of all, some of these trails pass by Armenia’s landmarks.

Whether you want to do multi-day hikes, a loop circuit or get from point A to B, there is something for everyone. For those looking for a challenge, you can hike up Mount Aragats or Mount Aghzahad. There are beautiful lush forest hikes in the Dilijan National Park, which we call the “Switzerland of Armenia”. You can even hike to different countries on the Transcaucasian Trail. To find the best hikes, check out HikeArmenia’s website .

We won’t even count the number of trails available, because that would totally bust our list of 20 things to do in Armenia! But trust us when we say that you have enough hiking trails in Armenia to last a lifetime!

10. Eat a lot of Armenian food

In case you didn’t know, the food in Armenia is just delicious. Most of the produce is grown locally and cooked with care. In fact, cooking and food are an important part of Armenian culture. If you know any Armenians, even if they are not living in Armenia, chances are, every time you see them, they try to offer you insane amounts of food to eat. Yeah, we all have that in common!

So if you want a good glimpse of the beautiful and generous culture of this country, we highly recommend you eat as much as you can. Prices are low, and the food is so delicious! You can find the list of our 25 best restaurants in Yerevan here .

And for local food lovers, we recommend stopping by the GUM market . This traditional local market in Yerevan is one of the best places to buy local treats to bring home, to eat while you’re in Yerevan, and to taste-test some local delicacies. We always say that it’s best to visit the GUM Market on an empty stomach because the vendors there will feed you generously!

Here are some of our favorite dishes. Obviously, we prioritize the vegetarian and vegan ones (or versions):

• Lavash:  This traditional Armenian bread is a staple of every meal. Thin and cooked in a tonir (clay barrel).
• Eggplant rolls:  Grilled eggplant, rolled with a mix of cheese, dill, and walnuts, sprinkled with pomegranate. Yum!
• Vegetarian manti :  Manti is a traditional Armenian dumpling (ish), served with broth and yogurt. They have the non-vegetarian version too.
• Cheese platter:  Simple, but the local cheeses here are amazing. Derek’s new favorite is Lori cheese, the perfect mix of squeaky and salty.
• Garden salad:  Another simple dish, but when the veggies are this fresh, it’s delicious!
• Lahmajoon: Also known as Armenian pizza. It’s a thin dough covered in meat. Some places have vegetarian lahmajoon, if not, go for the za’tar!
• Khorovats:  Basically, this means BBQ. The veggies, the meats, it’s all delicious! Try it. You can’t go wrong!
• Gata:  A typical Armenian coffee cake. Each family and city makes it a certain way. Regardless of how it’s made, it’s delicious, especially when it’s fresh out of the oven!
• Surjukh:  Known as Armenian Snickers, this dessert is a string of walnuts dipped into a mixture of fruit juices and spices, then dried. You’ll find them sold at groceries, on the side of the highway, and at major tourist sites.

Again, we won’t count the number of things to eat in Armenia, because then, we’d have to turn this into the 1,000 things to do in Armenia blog post!

If you’re visiting Armenia with the mind to eat as much as possible, we recommend you try one of these tours. You can either learn how to make traditional Armenian meals or go on a long trip taste-testing all over the country.

11. Take in the arts, one of the best things to do sightseeing in Armenia

Armenians have always been a very artistic culture. It’s no surprise that we dance, sing, and play music, every chance we get! There are art museums, galleries, statues, and street art around every corner of major cities. At most Armenian tourist sites, you will find a local painter selling his art, or a musician playing traditional Armenian songs.

In Yerevan , you are spoiled. You can find any type of gallery, museum or handcraft. If you want to get traditional pieces, ranging from household goods to jewelry, painting to instruments and so much more, head to Vernissage or the Painters’ vernissage.

Walking around the streets, you’ll also find statues on almost every street in Yerevan. You can take in the beautiful art installations at Cascade. Even Cascade itself is a beautiful piece of art, with stunning views of Ararat! If you’re lucky, you may spot some cool street art around the city too.

With so many cultural events happening, there are so many things to do in Armenia, especially in Yerevan.

If you are spending time in Yerevan, we have tons of articles to keep you busy: – The best free things to do in Yerevan – The best restaurants in the capital – Amazing day trips from Yerevan – Kond, Yerevan’s oldest neighborhood – Cascade, a Yerevan landmark you have to see – GUM Market, the best food market in the city

12. Enjoy a night of music at the Opera in Yerevan, one of the best things to do in Armenia

Whether you are into the ballet, the opera or musical performances, you can always find tons going on, especially in Yerevan . From the National troupes to local musicians, from jazz shows to traditional Armenian classics and funky rock/Armenian fusion, there are shows going on nightly in certain bars around the city, at the National Opera or in coffee shops.

13. Honor the past at Tsitsernakaberd, one of Armenia’s landmarks

Armenia has quite a bloody past. Although it’s working hard to move past it, it’s still important to recognize what happened over 100 years ago. That’s why, no tour of Armenia would be complete without visiting Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide memorial complex. This is truly one of Armenia’s landmarks and a beacon of hope for the world.

This is Armenia’s official memorial dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. The monument was built in 1967, which is quite rare to see from the strict Soviet regime, and a trip there is quite moving.

The monument is made of 2 structures. First, there is a 44-meter stele that symbolizes the national rebirth of Armenians. Then, you have 12 slabs placed in a circle to represent the 12 provinces lost in present-day Turkey. At the center of this circle, there is an eternal flame dedicated to the 1.5 million people killed during the Armenian Genocide.

On the same hill, you have the genocide museum. It is a brutal recounting of the atrocities that the Armenian people endured during the Genocide. It is a stark reminder of the cruelty humans are capable of, and moreover, it’s a warning sign to ensure no such atrocities are ever committed again.

14. Check out the stars at Byurakan astronomical observatory, a historical sight in Armenia

Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (or BAO) was founded in 1946, during the Soviet era, a true historical sight. Located on the slope of the mountain Aragatz, Armenia’s highest peak, the observatory focused its studies mainly on the instability phenomena taking place in the Universe. 

Since its opening, the observatory has discovered special star clusters – stellar associations (1947), more than 1,000 flare stars, dozens of Supernovae, hundreds of Herbig-Haro objects, cometary nebulae, and hundreds of galaxies. However, after the breakup of the Soviet Union, the observatory fell into hard times.

It still runs today, and it’s possible for you to visit the observatory on clear nights. It’s quite an experience to see the telescopes, get a sense of how things work and gaze at our beautiful galaxy. A must for any astronomy fans!

A little tip here is to book this as soon as you arrive. The skies and weather in Armenia are sometimes unpredictable, so the more time you give yourself, the better your chances of making it there on a clear sky!

15. Take a ride in a Soviet amusement park, an Armenian must-see

In most major cities, mainly Yerevan and Gyumri, you will find these old Soviet amusement parks. They are a mix of scary, thrilling and creepy! But they are kind of fun to check out, if only to wonder how these rides are still operating, and if they’re still up to code!

Certain rules are stricter than in other parks like you can’t bump the bumper cars, but you’re sure to have some fun. If you want a real thrill, we suggest heading up the Ferris wheel, which creaks and sways with the wind, or with the slightest movement!

Another cool timepiece left from the Soviet era is the Children’s Railway station in Yerevan. The station itself looks like a castle out of a fairytale. The trains and locomotives sitting in the backyard are also pretty cool. If you’re lucky, you may just get there when the trains are operating and you can go for a little ride with the kids.

16. Chill by the waters of Lake Sevan or Parz Lidj

Armenia is a very arid and mountainous country, but there are some places you can relax by the water. Being a landlocked country, don’t expect to see any oceanic beaches, but you will find some beautiful lakes!

First is the beautiful Parz Lake. When you come to Armenia, you have to visit Dilijan. Nestled in the mountains covered with lush forest, Dilijan is truly a unique place. Your trip there would not be complete without driving (or hiking) through the Dilijan national park, making your way to Lake Parz. There, you will find a lovely restaurant, a floating restaurant, as well as a ropes course, for those who need more action.

Then, you have the famous Lake Sevan, one of the best Armenian tourist attractions. This is the largest body of water in the country. Sure, there’s a monastery at the top of the peninsula, but that’s not what we’re here for today! 

There are tons of cafes, restaurants, and bars around the lake. If not, you can do as the locals and set up camp by the shores, make your own BBQ and take in the beauty of this massive lake. If you’re brave enough, you can also jump in, but be warned, because the water is always cold!

Finally, there is Kari Lake, at Mount Aragats. This lake is by a hotel and restaurant, renown for serving khash, a traditional Armenian soup made of cow hoof (No vegetarian options for that). The lake is also the starting point for hiking Mount Aragats. It’s a beautiful lake, and if you don’t want to hike all the way up to the peaks of the mountain, you can go until the top of the nearby crater.

17. Go fortress hunting to discover Armenia’s historical sights

There are a ton of fortresses around Armenia, all quite old and full of history! Luckily, the main ones are near Yerevan .

The first is Erebuni fortress, located just outside the city center. Some also call it Arin Berd. It is an Urartian fortified city and one of many fortresses built along the northern Urartian border, dating back to 782 BC. This place used to be one of the most important political, economic and cultural centers of the vast old kingdom.

Next, you have Amberd fortress, which literally translates to “Cloud fortress” or Fortress in the clouds. This 7th-century fortress is located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, right where the Arkashen and Amberd rivers run. It’s a beautiful fortress, overlooking a gorge on the cliffside of the mountains.

Finally, you have Smbataberd, a 5th-century fortress located between the villages of Artabuynk and Yeghegis in the Vayots Dzor. You will notice that Smbataberd was built in a very advantageous position. It’s on the southern end of a ridge, guarded by steep cliffs on three of its sides. Its large ramparts with its towers are still relatively intact on the exterior, making it quite a site to see.

We know that a lot of these fortresses have churches by them, but if you’re trying to avoid churches all together, good luck! Maybe you can just focus on the non-church part of it! And then our list will be the perfect amount of tourist places in Armenia.

18. Celebrate! For any reason… The best thing to do in Armenia!

If there’s one thing Armenians know how to do well (ok, it’s one of the many things they do well), it’s party! You already know they love to sing and dance, well, they also like to celebrate while they’re doing that! During our 7 weeks in Armenia, we saw fireworks at least 4 times. That’s almost every other week! For the best parties, be sure to be in Yerevan.

During national celebrations, the city’s main streets around Republic Square shut down, becoming pedestrian walkways. There are concerts, shows, and kiosks all around the capital, all for free. Street performers, bands, face painting, and of course, fireworks! Expect to have a ton of fun these days!

Not only are national holidays cause for celebration, but you will find tons of bars, clubs and wine bars where you can get the party started any day of the week. If you want to experience the real Armenian joie-de-vivre, we highly recommend you head out for a night on the town!

Important dates, celebrations and holidays in Armenia

If you can be in Yerevan for one of these holidays, we highly recommend it! Don’t be surprised if you see the city comes to a halt on a random day, as celebrations are big in Armenia!

Here are the main holidays and celebrations in Armenia:

• January 1: New year’s day
• January 6: Christmas day
• Easter is celebrated, but businesses stay open.
• April 24: Genocide memorial day. There will be a march from the city to Tsiternagaberd
• April 27: Citizen’s day. It’s a public holiday which is a day off for the general population, while schools and most businesses are closed.
• May 1: Labour Day
• May 28: Republic day. This is to celebrate when Armenia became an independent republic.
• July 28: Vardavar. Ok, if you don’t want to get wet today, stay inside. This celebration is like  Songkran  – everyone goes out with buckets of water, balloons, and water guns!
• September 21: Independence day
• December 31: New Year’s Eve

19. Visit the only active mosque in Armenia

Ok, we said we wouldn’t show you churches, but mosques are different! Plus, this one is special, because it’s the only active mosque in Armenia. 

As we know, Armenia is the first Christian country, and most people here are Christian, but Armenia also has very good relations with the neighboring country of Iran. In fact, the Blue Mosque is an 18th-century Shia mosque, commissioned by Huseyn Ali Khan, the khan of Erivan. It’s one of the oldest extant structures in Yerevan and the most significant structure of the Iranian period.

After Armenia’s independence in 1991, the mosque was renovated with support from the Iranian government and started operating again as a mosque, serving the many Iranians residing in Yerevan. It’s a beautiful place to visit and a welcome change from all the churches you’ll find in the city and country.

20. Catch an amazing view of Ararat, one of the best things to do in Armenia

Ararat is such an iconic symbol for Armenia. There are a few places you can catch a view of the imposing mountain. One of the best spots is at Cascade , the outdoor museum in Yerevan. On a clear day, you can see the imposing mountain over the city skyline. 

We could have added visiting Cascade as one of the best tourist spots in Armenia, but we kept this landmark for our Yerevan article. Make sure you check it out if you’re spending a few days in Armenia’s capital.

Another place is on the road to Khor Virap. The route that goes to Vayots Dzor has a ton of scenic views of the mountain. Especially at sunset, it’s a crazy beautiful view to catch. 

Finally, many people drive to Charents’ Arch, about 30 minutes outside of Yerevan, to catch a view of the iconic mountains beneath the archway there.

How to get around Armenia

There are a ton of ways to get around the country. Within cities, you can choose to walk, which is our favorite way of getting around. For example, in Yerevan , you can get from one end of the city to the next in 30-40 minutes.

If not, to get to all these amazing places, you can hire a car off the GG app. There are also marshrutkas that run around the cities and through Armenia.

If you’re looking for other ways to get around this small country, make sure you  check out our article here .

Where to stay in Armenia

If you’re ready to crash after all these things to do in Armenia, you’re in luck! There are a ton of different options of places to stay in Armenia. From larger hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses and homestays, you’ll find something for every budget.

In Yerevan and larger cities like Gyumri or Goris, you will have a larger selection. While smaller towns and villages will have one or two larger hotels but will offer a lot more options for authentic experiences through homestays and guesthouses. If you feel like doing something different, we highly encourage you to try Couchsurfing .

Regardless of where you choose to stay, you will be able to experience Armenian hospitality at its best!

Sustainable travel and ecotourism in Armenia

As always, we want to be sure everyone practices sustainable travel in Armenia, and all over the world. That’s why we always share these tips to help you travel in the most eco-friendly way possible! Ecotourism is so important because it helps lower our carbon footprint, it helps travel becomes less of a burden on the environment, and it helps preserve our beautiful planet, so future generations can explore the beauty of the world.

Here are our tips to help you practice sustainable travel in Armenia:

• Bring reusable water bottles and coffee mugs: Tap water in Armenia is safe to drink, and it’s one of the cleanest in the world. So make sure you bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up (we always have our Lifestraw Go with us!). You will also find freshwater fountains (called pulpulaks) all over Armenia. You can drink from there, or refill your bottle. And if you love to drink coffee, make sure you bring your reusable coffee mug too! This is the best way to reduce your plastic consumption and to sustainably travel all over the world! Make sure you check out our article on our favorite eco-friendly travel products for your next trip.
• Eat as local and vegan as you can: This is the easiest way to reduce your environmental footprint. Eat as much local produce and food as possible, and especially, eat all the vegan options you can! It’s a delicious and easy way to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Support small local restaurants and eateries: If you eat out, make sure you go to locally-owned restaurants. Avoid big chains or restaurants owned by conglomerates. Go off the beaten path with your restaurant choice by asking locals for their best recommendations.
• Bring your own bags and refuse plastic bags: Like most places, they still offer plastic bags in grocery stores, at the local markets, and at various shops. So bring your own bag and do your little step to promote ecotourism in Armenia and save our beautiful planet!
• Walk around: We walked all around Armenia’s cities and towns. We had a great time getting lost in the streets. It helped that our hotels were so centrally located to all the main attractions.
• Use public transportation to get around the cities in Armenia : The subway in Yerevan is great, and most cities have their own bus system, which is chaotic but in an organized way. It’s very easy to get around the cities using public transportation.
• Take the bus or train to get from city to city in Armenia: Another great way to cover long distances in Armenia, if you’re traveling from town to town, is to use the buses or the train.
• Stay in eco-hotels or small locally-owned hotels in Armenia: Another great way to promote ecotourism in Armenia is to stay in smaller, locally-owned hotels, or better yet, to stay in eco-hotels. There are a ton of great options available, so make sure you check these options first !

To recap, here are the best things to do in Armenia that are not churches

• Visit Karahunj astronomical observatory
• Check out the oldest collection of cross-stones at Noraduz cemetery
• Fly on the Wings of Tatev
• Explore the caves of Khndzoresk
• Visit the Areni-1 cave, the oldest winery in the world
• Explore Armenia’s traditions on a tour
• Hike to Shaki waterfalls
• Visit the Letters Monument
• Hike the many trails of Armenia
• Eat a lot of Armenian food
• Take in the art in Armenia
• Enjoy a night of music in Yerevan
• Honor the past at Tsitsernakaberd
• Check out the stars at Byurakan astronomical observatory
• Take a ride in a Soviet amusement park
• Chill by the waters of Lake Sevan or Parz Lidj
• Go fortress hunting
• Celebrate! For any reason in Armenia
• Visit the only active mosque in Armenia
• Catch a view of the iconic Mount Ararat

Although the history of Armenia is very rich, and churches are an intricate part of it, there is much more to the country than some of what the traditional tours offer. These churches and monasteries are beautiful, and true architectural wonders, having stood through wars, earthquakes and the tests of time. But if you want to truly discover all the beauty of this ancient country, we recommend going off the beaten path and seeing the other beauties it offers.

Hopefully, this list of 20 tourist attractions in Armenia that aren’t churches will give you a glimpse of all the incredible things this ancient country has to offer.

Have you ever been to Armenia? Are there other things we should be adding to the list? Let us know!

We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share, every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very much appreciated.

You can also help us by pinning it for others to find.

You Might Also Like:

How to travel in Armenia, 11 cheap and easy ways

17 impressive churches in Armenia you have to see

The GUM Market, a guide to Yerevan’s best food market

29 comments.

Great post! A different view from this country. 😀

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!

I love the Armenians hospitality too

great pics 📷👌

Thank you Rita!

One day I swear I’ll make it to the Caucuses; it’s posts like these that make that day get closer and closer. Awesome post!

Amazing, that is exactly the kind of impact we strive to make with our blog!!! Thank you so much for your kind words 🙌🏼

Superb pics

Thanks Abdul!

Awesome! Added to my must see list!

Wow! It is stunning! We planned to visit Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan this year but then we decided to go to Taiwan instead. But this definitely stays on my list. I am most excited about the food. 🙂

You will love it when you do come, and the food is great!

Beautiful country! Very beautiful and sincere! Thank you.

It really is an amazing place!

This is our Armenia 🙂

It sure is! And it is beautiful 😀

Hello, to me more precised it should be written SUJUKH – known as armenian snickers.. Churchkhela is a Georgian sweet and Georgian word, but looks a bit the same, but Churchkhela is still different.. and if the blogger doesn’t want tones of negative comments from Georgians towards Armenians, better to correct this mistake Best

Hey Artsy, Thanks for the correction! We fixed it. We don’t want to get negative comments, especially not about delicious food! And now you have us curious to try Georgian Churchkhela. We love the Georgian Khachapuri, so we can just imagine how amazing the rest of the food must be! Bon appetit!

Will be happy to assist you in Georgia.

Yup amazing country next time don’t forget to visit Levon’s Divine underground . A village to discover 😊

Thanks it will be just one more reason to come back to this amazing country!

Welcome to Gyumri and you’ll discover a totally new Armenia… You’ll find yourself in a 19th century old Armenian town

Yes we loved Gyumri and Carine volunteered there for 3 months almost 11 years ago!

Amazing! Happy to have found this page, 2 days before I head off to Armenia 🙂 one question: what is the name of the soviet amusement park in your pictures?

Stunning photos and writing! Thanks for sharing!

Excellent article! We haven’t yet been to Armenia, but there are some wonderful tips in here for a country that hadn’t previously been super high on our radar. Thank you!

Our pleasure Kristen, if we can get people to visit small unknown countries like Armenia, then I think we have achieved what we are trying to do with this blog!

Reblogging to my sister site Timeless Wisdoms

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18 Amazing Places to Visit in Armenia

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

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

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

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

Planning a trip to Armenia?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

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

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in Armenia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more about Yerevan in my articles:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Are you planning a trip to Armenia? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus Region and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
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Located around 100 km north from Yerevan, in the heart of Dilijan National Park, Dilijan is often called “Armenian Switzerland”. This famous and important spa town was founded in 1544, however, the area was inhabited already in the Late Bronze and early Iron ages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Garni Temple

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

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

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

Geghard Monastery

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

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

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

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

Haghpat Monastery

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

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

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

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

Sanahin Monastery

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

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

Amberd Fortress

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

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

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

Saghmosavank Monastery

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

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

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

The Alphabet Monument

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

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

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

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

Etchmiadzin

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

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

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

Zvartnots Cathedral

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

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

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

Khor Virap Monastery

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

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

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

Noravank Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tatev Monastery

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

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

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

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

Zorats Karer / Carahunge

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

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

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

Visiting Armenia – practical information

Best time to visit armenia.

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

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

How many days to spend in Armenia

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

How to get to Armenia

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

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

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

How to travel around Armenia

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

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

Travel Resources

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

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

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

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

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23 Comments

Keri | Ladies What Travel

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

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

Karen Vardazaryan

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

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

Alison McKenna

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

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

Sher Maryn Le Bay

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

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

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

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

Nice and new things to. Know

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

Thank you, Sunny :) All the best!

Anna Garibian

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

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

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

Thank you, I’m glad you liked it

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

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

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

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

Ashraf El Shakaa

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

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

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Home » Travel Guides » Armenia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Shikahogh State Reserve

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

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

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

3. Lake Sevan

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

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

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

4. Dilijan National Park

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

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

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

5. Mount Aragats

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

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

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

6. Lake Arpi

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

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

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

7. Noravank

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Vanadzor

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

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

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

10. Amberd Fortress

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

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

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

11. Tsaghkadzor

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

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

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

12. Upper Azat Valley

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

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

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

13. Karahunj Observatory

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

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

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

14. Khor Virap

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia:

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

Armenia Top 14 Places You Should Visit

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: April 21, 2021  - Last updated: November 7, 2021

Categories Armenia , Caucasus , Destinations

Armenia is one of the most fascinating and underrated European countries to visit. This small country in the Caucasus region is a mountainous area nestled between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, bordering its arch enemies Turkey and Azerbaijan and their more friendly neighbors in Georgia and Iran . It might be a landlocked country, but there are multiple Armenian tourist attractions that will blow your socks off when you visit Armenia! 

Armenia’s capital city Yerevan may be the most popular destination to visit, but there are many other places to visit in Armenia. Be ready to see a lot of monasteries during your visit to Armenia. These structures are the biggest tourist attractions in Armenia. Given below is a list of places to visit in Armenia so you can plan your trip to the country and enjoy its beauty to the fullest. Armenia is really the country of Monasteries which is no wonder since Armenia was the world´s first Christian country.

Top Places to Visit in Armenia

Yerevan the armenian capital.

The capital city of Armenia is where you’ll most probably start your trip. Yerevan is the biggest city in Armenia and is often called ‘the pink city because of the volcanic tuff that was used during its construction – a rare stone to find outside of this region. Yerevan is also quite ancient – at 2,800 years old, it precedes even the founding of Rome.

The look of the city was designed by Alexander Tumanyan at the beginning of the 20th century. The best thing to do in Yerevan is to explore the wide avenues and green spaces and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. If classical old towns with pretty buildings attract you, then Yerevan is the place to be! The local craft beer scene in Yerevan is worth checking out.

Located at 1,899 meters above sea level, Lake Sevan is the biggest lake in the Caucasus and is one of the highest elevated lakes in the world. Lake Sevan is part of the Sevan National Park and is one of the four protected areas in Armenia. 

The lake covers about 3% of the entire country – 28 rivers flow into the lake, but only the Hrazdan flows out. The lake is also known for its world-famous Sevan trout. The mesmerizing lake isn’t the only reason you should visit Lake Sevan – it’s also home to several stunning monuments.

You can visit the Noratus cemetery and find some of the most stunning khachkars (Armenian cross-stones). Each stone has the story of the person buried there. This is one of the largest cemeteries in the world and is truly exquisite. You can also visit breathtaking monasteries like Sevanavank and Hayravank. 

Situated in the heart of the Dilijan National Park, Dilijan is often referred to as the ‘Armenian Switzerland’. This famous town was founded in 1544. However, the area was inhabited from Late Bronze to the Early Iron Age. 

Dilijan is known for its forest surrounding the city. If you love long walks and serene surroundings, then Dilijan is the place for you. But there are also other attractions in the city. From Dilijan, you can go for a hike to a semi-abandoned monastery from the 11th century called Jukhtak Vank. 

There are other monasteries you can visit like Matosavank and Haghartsin. But the main reason to visit this beautiful town is to experience the fresh air and the lush forests surrounding you.

The second-largest city in Armenia after Yerevan was left devastated after the 1988 earthquake, and one can see the damage caused by the earthquake to date. But apart from this, the city is definitely worth a visit. 

The Russians built a fortress in the city in 1837, called Alexandropol, after which the city was constructed. Before the earthquake hit the city, Gyumri was deemed the most beautiful city in Armenia. If you love old architecture, then visiting places like Vartanants Square and its museums, churches, and bazaars will leave you awe-struck.

An interesting fact about the city is that most of the buildings are black due to volcanic tuff – similar to the pink hues mentioned earlier in Yerevan’s structures.

Garni Temple

This is one of the easiest trips to make from Yerevan. The Garni Temple is dedicated to the sun god Mihr. This construction is one of the best examples of pre-Christian Armenian monuments. 

Research suggests that the temple was built in the 1st century AD. After Armenia’s conversion to Christianity, royals used the temple as a summer house in the early 4th century. However, other research suggests that this building is not a temple but a tomb – which is why it survived the period of conversion to Christianity.

The temple was unfortunately destroyed during the earthquake but was rebuilt using the original stones. If history intrigues you, then Garni Temple should feature on your list of top places to visit in Armenia. 

Geghard Monastery

This 4th-century monastery complex was featured on the UNESCO World Heritage List. What’s intriguing about this structure is that the tombs and churches were carved into the rock, depicting Armenian architecture at its best.

The place became popular when relics of Apostles Andrew and John were donated to the Monastery. The Katoghike Chapel, which is the main church, was built in 1215 in the shape of a cross. 

Surrounded by stunning cliffs, the Geghard Monastery is a sight for sore eyes. It’s also close to the Garni Temple, making it ideal as part of a single-day stopover.

Haghpat Monastery

Another mesmerizing monastery, close to the Georgian border near Alaverdi in the Lori Province. The Haghpat Monastery was constructed between the 10th and 13th centuries during Bagratid’s rule. The Monastery used to play an important role as a cultural, religious, educational, and scientific centre during the Middle Ages. 

Some research suggests that the Haghpat Monastery was built in the 4th century on the ruins of a pagan temple. If you’re a history freak, then the complex medieval walls of the Monastery, churches, libraries, tombs, bell towers, and numerous khachkars will intrigue you. 

The Haghpat Monastery is another monument that has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Make sure to visit the Haghpat Complex to soak in the beauty of Armenian architecture. 

Sanahin Monastery

As mentioned above, Armenia is famous for its monasteries, and here is another one. The name of the Monastery roughly translates to “this one is older than that one”, probably referring to the fact that the Sanahin Monastery was built before the Haghpat Monastery. 

The Monastery consists of 16 buildings, including St.Harutyun and St.Gregory chapels, as well as several khachkars. The Sanahin Monastery isn’t located far from the Haghpat Monastery and shares the inscription to the UNESCO World Heritage List with the Haghpat Complex.

Tatev Monastery

Tatev Monastery in the southern part of Armenia, one of the most historically important monasteries in all of the country and a landmark of Armenia.

Tatev Monastery was established in the 9th century, and during the 14th and 15th centuries, the Monastery was one of the most important universities in the region, the University of Tatev. Which offered studies in science, religion, and philosophy, reproduction of books, and development of miniature painting during the period Tatev Monastery was home to more than 600 students, and it was considered to be the main spiritual and cultural center of Armenia.

Tatev Monastery was for years one of the rarely visited monasteries in Armenia, due to its remote location, but everything changed when in 2010, a 5,7km cableway was constructed from the nearby village of Halidzor. The cableway named the “Wings Of Tatev” is in the Guinness World Records book as  the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car .

The most popular day trip from Yerevan is to the small Monastery of Khor Virap, which is Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage site. Khor Virap was means “deep dungeon” in Armenian. After the place was a former prison being notable for holding the man who would become Saint Gregory the Illuminator in a pit that was no larger than 14-feet for 13 years before he helped turn the country into the first Christian nation.

Khor Virap is located on the foothills of Mount Ararat, which is the resting places of Noah’s Ark , according to the Bible. Khor Virap is an important landmark of Armenia and a must-visit.

Amberd Fortress

Roughly translating to “fortress in the clouds”, this Armenian structure is located close to 2,300 meters above sea level. It was built on the slopes of the highest mountain in the country, Mount Aragats. 

The fortress was built between the 10th and 13th centuries and was one of the most important points of defense on Armenian territory.

Make sure to plan a trip to the Amber Fortress as well as the Vahramashen Church and the hidden pathway to the river Arkashen.

Saghmosavank Monastery

Situated in the village of Saghmosavank in the Aragatsotn Region, this stunning monastery complex should feature in your list of the top places to visit in Armenia. If you love beautiful architecture and mesmerizing views, then this Monastery built on the cliff above the gorge of the Kasagh river will leave you awe-struck!

Plain walls and quaint decorations make the interior delicate and austere. The cross-winged domed structure with two-storeyed annexes makes this building unique. If the weather permits, then you can catch a glimpse of the Aragats, the highest mountain in Armenia, from the monastery complex. 

The Alphabet Monument 

Situated on the side of the road north to Yerevan, you can find 39 huge Armenian letters carved of stone and decorated with local Armenian motifs. Mesrop Mashtots created the Armenian alphabet at the beginning of the 5th century and consists of one of the most beautiful letters you will lay your eyes on.

The monument was built in 2005 to celebrate the 1600th birthday of the Armenian alphabet. The location may come across as random, but the last resting place of Mesrop Mashtots isn’t far away from the monument. 

Etchmiadzin

Known as the spiritual capital of Armenia, the name of the city is Vagharshapat, but people still use Etchmiadzin. This is because that’s what the place was called between 1945 and 1995. The city is connected with Saint Gregory the Illuminator, who built the Etchmiadzin Cathedral between 310-303, one of the oldest churches in the world. 

Some more places you should feature in your trip to Etchmiadzin are the Churches of Saint Hripsime, Saint Shoghakat, and Saint Gayane. You should also visit the archaeological site of Zvartnots. All of these sites have made it to UNESCO World Heritage List and should feature in your trip to Armenia. 

Conclusion about Armenia

Armenia remains to be one of the most fascinating and underrated countries to visit. Armenia, being the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion, consists of some of Europe’s most breathtaking views.

Armenia is slowly becoming a popular tourist destination because of the rich culture and history this small country boasts. For your next trip to Armenia, make sure to visit the places mentioned in the list above to experience the rich culture of this medieval country.

20 MOST SPECTACULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN ARMENIA

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

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

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

FACTS ABOUT ARMENIA

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

THE MOST SPECTACULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN ARMENIA

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Yerevan

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

Khor Viral Monastery View with View of Mount Ararat

Novarank Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

Salim Caravanserai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Noratus and the Khachkars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Dilijan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Garni

The Symphony of Stone

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

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

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

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

Armenian Cuisine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

• Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
• For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
• Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
• Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
• Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
• For more  general tours  to any destination or attraction,  book with   Viator . Check them out.
• Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
• Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
• Food and drink tours are the best way to enjoy a city. And Devour Tours are my favorite.
• Looking for a good VPN to protect your security, privacy and freedom online while traveling? Nordvpn is your best option.

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

Talek Nantes

5 thoughts on “20 most spectacular places to visit in armenia”.

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

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

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

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

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Wander-Lush

30 Awesome Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan is one of my all-time favourite cities and a place I never tire of visiting. This curated guide to Armenia’s capital city brings together 30 of my favourite things to do in Yerevan , including must-sees, the best free activities, and quirky and alternative attractions.

On my first visit to the Caucasus , Armenia fell smack bang in the middle of my itinerary. I had originally planned to spend a few weeks travelling all around the country .

But not long after stepping off the train in Yerevan, I had changed my mind and decided to spend a couple of weeks in the capital instead.

Yerevan is small, but it’s my kind of city. It’s the kind of place that warms your heart and lifts your spirits; a city of parks and fountains, outdoor bars and cafes, music and laughter, independent shops and creative spaces, sprawling markets and cute boutiques.

And with views like this, how could you not fall a little bit in love?

Like Tbilisi, Yerevan is another capital on the cusp of Europe and Asia. This is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Yerevanians have weathered a recent history so tragic it almost defies belief.

Hard times have made Armenians proud of their identity and heritage, and their capital is in many ways an outward expression of that. This is where you’ll find most of the country’s top museums, cultural institutions, and restaurants that keep Armenia’s culinary traditions alive.

With its pink tuff-stone facades, wide boulevards and fountain-filled squares, Yerevan is a walking city and a photography lover’s dream. This guide brings together my favourite things to do in Yerevan plus my top visitor’s tips.

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

Yerevan Essentials

• Yerevan City Card: If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, consider picking up an official Yerevan City Pass. It grants you entry to more than 40 museums in Yerevan, city tours, unlimited rides on public transport, a complimentary SIM card, plus discounts on a number of restaurants and shops. Buy your Yerevan Card online here .
• Airport transfer: Book a private transfer to your hotel in Yerevan here . Prices start from a very reasonable $13 per group.
• Top Yerevan city tour: Short on time or want to explore the city with a local? You can now tour Yerevan in a vintage GAZ-M20 Pobeda (nicknamed ‘Stalin’s Car’), visiting Victory Park, Cafesjian, Republic Square and the Vernissage market in the comfort of a retro convertible!
• Yerevan day trips: For budget-friendly day trips around Armenia, I recommend travelling with Hyur Service . They offer a large variety of long and short itineraries with professional guides and safe drivers. Browse more Yerevan day trips here on Viator .

Where to stay in Yerevan

If it’s your first time in Yerevan, I highly recommend choosing an accommodation in the central Kentron District. This will put you within easy walking distance of all the top places to visit in Yerevan, terrific restaurants, bars and cafes.

I usually stay in the north-west of the city around Saryan Street.

BUDGET: Highland Hostel (⭐ 9.8). This bright hostel has both a mixed dorm and a budget-friendly private double room. It is located 10 minutes by foot from Republic Square.

MID-RANGE: Republica Hotel (⭐ 9.2). This stylish hotel offers comfortable rooms decorated with traditional Armenian carpets and with views towards Ararat from the windows and balconies. The breakfast is highly regarded.

HISTORIC: Villa Delenda (⭐ 8.8). This cosy, character-filled boutique hotel is set inside a 100-year-old stone villa and decorated with gorgeous heritage furnishings. The central location in Kentron is perfect.

HIGH-END: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel (⭐ 9.1). This luxury 19th century-style hotel is located adjacent to the Venissage in the centre of the city. It features modern suites, a pool, an onsite restaurant, and in the basement, an Armenian carpet museum!

30 awesome things to do in Yerevan

This curated list brings together my favourite free things to do in Yerevan , alternative and offbeat attractions, museums and galleries, and classic Yerevan experiences that I consider must-dos!

1. Summit the Yerevan Cascade for a view of Mount Ararat

On the opposite side of the city from Republic Square, the massive limestone staircase that is the Yerevan Cascade rises up to link the lower and upper parts of the city. One of the best things to do in Armenia is climb the Cascade for a view of Yerevan and the twin peaks of Mount Ararat .

Start in the Sculpture Garden that skirts the bottom of the stairs. Here’s where you’ll find a collection of provocative and humorous works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. ‘Smoking Woman’ and ‘Gatto’ (the cat) are my favourites.

You then have the option to climb the outdoor Cascade stairs or to head inside to the Cafesjian Museum of Art and ride the escalators to the top. Ascending the massive hillside staircase will give you close-up views of the Soviet-style stone reliefs , fountains and sculptures that decorate every tier.

Inside, encased within the stairs, there is a series of galleries that showcase different art and design exhibitions. Four of the galleries (including the Sasuntsi Davit Gallery) are free to visit while others require a ticket.

The Cascade is one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan. And it only gets better once you get to the top of the stairs – if you’re lucky, you’ll be rewarded with gob-smacking views. On a clear day, fabled Greater Ararat – the spot where Noah is said to have set down his Ark – rises above the rooftops.

Save this activity for a clear day. My best tip is to get there as early as possible, especially in summer, as the sky tends to get progressively hazier as the day goes on. Do note that the fountains aren’t turned on until mid-morning (on my last visit I was there at 10am and they weren’t running yet).

In spring and winter you can climb up for sunset and often get a clear picture of Ararat.

• Location: 10 Tamanyan Street
• Opening hours: 24/7 (outside); 8am-8pm Friday to Sunday (Cafesjian)
• Cost: Both the sculpture garden and galleries are now completely free

2. Keep on climbing to the October Revolution Memorial

The views from the top of the Cascade are hard to beat – but if you want to continue walking, it is possible to climb even higher above the city. The October Revolution Memorial, Victory Park and the Mother Armenia statue are all located in Kanaker-Zeytun district behind the Cascade and are easy to reach on foot in around 20-30 minutes .

When you reach the top of the Cascade, take the path up on the left-hand side. You will soon be able to see the underside and inner workings of the Cascade itself, which is quite interesting!

Continue walking, following the lemon-coloured wall next to the construction site all the way until you are standing underneath the concrete structure. Use the metal stairs next to the guard box to go all the way to the top, and you will pop out inside the memorial complex.

You can get a nice photo of the obelisk and stairs from this angle, framed by the concrete overhang.

The October Revolution Memorial consists of a huge concrete plaza (the views are rather grand from here, too), a mausoleum-like stone building, and a 50-metre-tall obelisk . The obelisk is crowned with a single wheat sheaf symbolising the Tree of Life.

It was created in 1967 by Jim Torosyan and Sargis Gurzadyan to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution.

3. Walk through Victory Park & say ‘hello’barev’ to Mother Armenia

Officially opening in November 1950 after two decades of work, Victory Park is one of the biggest green spaces in Yerevan and undoubtedly commands the best views of the city.

The park has a great retro vibe (there is even an abandoned Soviet-era building inside – see the next section), with cute hand-drawn maps at every entrance. There are several more war memorials inside the park plus some beautiful khachkar stones. In the upper part there is an amusement park, an artificial lake and a ferris wheel.

When coming from the Cascade via the October Revolution Memorial, exit from the back of the memorial plaza (follow the street down a few metres to get a view of the neo-Brutalist apartment building ), then use the pedestrian underpass to cross the road. You will see one of the entrances to Victory Park directly in front of you.

Once inside, follow the main walking path all the way along, past the abandoned restaurant (see below), and you will eventually come to a marked panoramic viewpoint, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and eternal flame, and the Mother Armenia statue.

One of the most conspicuous Soviet-era monuments in Yerevan, Mother Armenia is a 22-metre-high statue set in Victory Park. Originally a 17-metre-tall Stalin statue stood on this spot until the copper effigy was removed in 1962.

A symbol of ‘peace through strength’, Mother Armenia was designed by Ara Harutyunyan and bears a resemblance and similar sentiment to other ‘mother’ statues in former USSR cities (including Tbilisi, where you’ll find Mother of Georgia adjacent to Narikala Fortress ). There is a second Mother Armenia statue in Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri .

This statue is special for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it is modelled off a real woman, Genya Muradian. The story of how she came to inspire the sculptor is very cool!

Another thing that sets this statue apart from her sisters is the basalt-stone pedestal, which is hollowed out to form several chambers. Designed by Rafayel Israyelian, it now houses the Military Museum of Armenia . Entry is by donation.

4. Photograph the abandoned Aragil Restaurant

If you’re up for a short urbexing detour, I highly recommend stopping at the former Restaurant Aragil while you walk through Victory Park. Located at the very front of the park overlooking the city, it has an incredible view and must have been quite the spot back in the day.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I went looking for the abandoned building. Turns out it is right off the main path that runs through the lower part of the park. The interesting part – the open terrace with a colourful floor mosaic – is outside (the main part of the restaurant building is locked) and very easy to find. I was alone and didn’t feel nervous here at all.

You can also see the old restaurant sign hanging at the front of the building, and a very interesting stone relief on the side that depicts a stork (Aragil means ‘stork’ in Armenian). Off to the side there are abandoned gazebos.

A sign on the front of the building indicates that the restaurant opened in 1960 and was designed by the Armenian architect Rafayel Israyelian (the same artist responsible for the stone Mother of Armenia pedestal). It also says the restaurant was ‘preserved and restored’ – I guess at some point there were plans to demolish it. I hope someone does eventually restore and reopen it.

5. Visit the mighty Matenadaran Museum of Ancient Manuscripts

Officially the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, the Matenadaran is set inside an imposing building on the hillside behind the Cascade. To get there, cross the little footbridge before the Divers sculpture then follow the lower road.

The Matenadaran is the safekeeper of the world’s largest collection of Armenian manuscripts. The institute was established in 1959 and is named after the man who developed the Armenian alphabet. The five-storey building holds an estimated 23,000 manuscripts and scrolls, plus another half-a-million archival documents, decrees and periodicals – many of them donated by the public.

A small cross-section of the collection is on display inside the Matenadaran’s stately rooms, presented in antique wooden cabinets under glass. The illuminated manuscripts are particularly beautiful, and it’s fascinating to see early examples of the Armenian alphabet, itself very unique.

The institute also has a copy of Urbatagirk , the first ever Armenian book published in Venice in 1512.

• Location: 53 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: 10am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays)
• Cost: 1,500 AMD
• Tip: You’ll need to pay an additional 2,500 AMD if you want to take photos inside

6. Grab a drink at Lumen 1936, Yerevan’s most beautiful coffee shop

Conveniently located close to the bottom of the Cascade, Lumen Coffee 1936 is the ideal place to spot for breakfast or a drink after your morning walk.

Previously a tobacconist and a bookstore, the space originally opened in 1940 and features original painted walls, inlay ceilings and woodwork by master craftsman Hovhannes Naghashyan.

The cafe has two delightful little single-person booth seats for solo sippers plus a couple of tables. The coffee is top-notch, and they also serve breakfast (sadly I arrived before the kitchen was open so I just grabbed a croissant).

The historic fittings and morning light pouring through the front windows makes this one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan.

• Location: 45 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: Daily from 8.30am until late

7. Hunt down Yerevan street art

In early 2023 Yerevan hosted its first street art festival, the City of the Future Street Art Festival . Several large-scale murals were created as part of the event, including the work pictured above left by Italian artist Antonio Perrotta ( attorrep ), which can be seen on the facade of the Academy of Fine Arts close to Lumen Cafe.

There are at least three more murals around town – see how many you can spot during your travels around Yerevan.

Just around the corner, there is another public art project worth stopping by. The ‘Eternal Alphabet Wall’ is a set of sculptures of the characters of the Armenian alphabet created by artist and designer Vahan Balasanyan.

8. Stroll through Republic Square

Republic Square (also known simply as ‘the Square’ or Hraparak) is the heart and social centre of Yerevan. This is where you can see some of the city’s most impressive stone buildings (including the National Museum) arranged around a large open plaza. In spring and summer, tulips and roses bloom around the edge of the square.

When it was constructed between the 1950s and 70s, city planners flattened Yerevan’s old town and erected the square right on top. That’s why Yerevan doesn’t have a defined ‘Old Town’ area like Tbilisi . At the time of my first visit in 2017, work had just started to construct a ‘new old town’ using fragments of recovered tuff stone.

Originally called Lenin Square, this was once a marching ground for military parades. Now, Republic Square is a gathering place for Yerevanites young and old – and a very popular spot to grab an ice cream cone or a cup of coffee on a sunny afternoon.

Did you know that Yerevan gets 300 days of sunshine every year? Republic Square is the perfect place to soak up some rays. Every night, the square’s Dancing Fountain lights up for a show – but I prefer this area during the day when it’s chokkas with people. The atmosphere is great.

Located at the top of Republic Square, the History Museum of Armenia houses some of the country’s most significant archaeological finds, including the famous Areni-1 shoe , a 5,500-year-old leather shoe that was unearthed in Vayots Dzor in 2008. It’s very well preserved considering it’s the oldest leather shoe in the world!

The museum collection catalogues more than 400,000 items – a testament to Armenia’s long history. Given that this region is the birthplace of viniculture, I also recommend seeking out the urns and other artefacts related to the area’s winemaking tradition should you choose to visit.

The History Museum is interesting but it is not my favourite museum in Yerevan – read on for two of my top picks.

9. Drink from a Pulpulak

Yerevan’s drinking fountains, known as pulpulaks, are another unique feature of the city’s urban planning. Most of the fountains were erected in the 1920s. Incredibly, there are more than 1,500 in total – once you know what to look for you’ll notice them on almost every street corner and in parks and squares everywhere.

The fountain with the most impressive design is Yot Aghbyur (‘Seven Springs’) , which sits on the western side of Republic Square near the museum and has been a fixture of the city since 1965.

Crowds of thirsty punters queue to drink from the seven water bubblers. Do as the locals do and take a quick, healthy gulp of the fresh, icy cold water whenever you pass by – just don’t let your lips touch the fountain!

10. Step inside Katoghike, Yerevan’s most beautiful church

There are dozens of churches in Yerevan, most built from tuff stone in the same shades as the city’s buildings. They can be easy to miss, especially when they’re nestled at the foot of towering apartment blocks.

Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church was consecrated in 1264 , making it one of the oldest churches in the city . The complex is the result of decades of additions and reconstructions. A tiny chapel – only big enough to hold a few worshippers – is dwarfed by a new basilica that encases it.

Parts of the complex (including an original 13th-century wall) have survived all kinds of hardships, from the threat of Soviet city planning to earthquakes. In this way, I see it as something of a motif for Armenia in general. This place has a special aura and reverence about it, especially in the late afternoon when the sun sinks behind the bell tower, lighting up the plaza and illuminating the stone.

• Location: 17 Abovyan Street
• Opening hours: From 9am daily

11. Visit the Blue Mosque, the last active mosque in Armenia

Being the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion, the vast majority of Armenians have worshiped the same god since 301 AD. Modern-day Yerevan is extremely diverse, with Jews, Yazidis, Kurds and Syrian Muslims all calling the capital home.

Built in the 18th century, the Blue Mosque was the largest of Yerevan’s eight mosques and is the last remaining Islamic house of worship in Armenia today. Mainly used by the city’s Iranian community and embassy staff, it’s one of the top Yerevan attractions.

In a gesture of good faith, the mosque was leased to the Iranian Embassy in Yerevan in 2015. The turquoise, indigo and butter-yellow mosaics on the facade and exterior dome were restored and can now be admired from the leafy gardens out front. Don’t miss the elaborately decorated entrance that faces onto the road.

The mosque doubles as a cultural centre, offering classes in Farsi. It’s possible to go inside when prayers are not in progress – I haven’t ventured in myself, but from photos, the brick domed interior looks impressive. Appropriate dress (including a head covering for women) is required if you want to venture any further beyond the garden.

At the time of my most recent visit there was a pop-up shop inside one of the ancillary buildings. This meant that I could go inside one of the rooms and view the convex brick dome and tile work that decorates the interior.

The Blue Mosque is a symbol of the cordial relationship between Armenia and neighbouring Iran. The two countries have a visa-free tourism arrangement (a huge number of Iranians visit Yerevan every year), and Iran has allowed Armenia to preserve several Apostolic churches that fall within the Islamic Republic’s borders.

• Location: 12 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: 10am-1pm & 3pm-6pm daily

12. Rummage for treasure at the Vernissage Market

A must see in Yerevan, the city’s biggest outdoor market, the Vernissage, occupies all of the central Charles Aznavour Square. It began in the 1980s when a group of local painters started displaying their works outside the art institute on Buzand Street. Today it’s a huge indoor-outdoor market selling everything from canvases and carpets to second-hand treasures and handcrafted souvenirs .

As a rough guide, you can find most artists and craftspeople in the undercover section while antiques and vintage items are sold out back.

My favourite part of the Vernissage is the carpet section. Vendors set up along the side of the market, displaying a dizzyingly beautiful array of Caucasian rugs hung on tree branches and draped over the hoods of vintage cars.

Browse the rows of stalls, meet the artisans, rummage for antique coffee pots and cute knick knacks, then walk yourself up and down ‘carpet row’ a couple of times. The Vernissage is similar in some ways to Tbilisi’s Dry Bridge Market , but there are more handmade products versus antiques.

• Location: Buzand Street
• Opening hours: Daily from 7am-6pm

For tips on shopping for textiles at the Vernissage Market and elsewhere in Armenia, check out my Textile Lover’s Guide to the Caucasus .

13. Browse Yerevan’s small galleries & boutiques

The whole of Yerevan sometimes feels like an outdoor gallery, with painter’s easels, street performers, murals and colourful cafes on every corner. There are plenty of small galleries and boutiques where you can browse Armenian art, ceramics and handicrafts.

Dalan is one of my favourite gallery spaces and doubles as a souvenir shop. This is where the famous and much-photographed wall of plates is located.

Whether it’s fashion, hand-painted ceramics, tea, honey and other edibles, knickknacks, Soviet memorabilia or textiles you’re after, you’ll find it for sale in Yerevan.

→ For more advice on what to buy in Yerevan, see my guide to Armenian souvenirs and Yerevan shopping map .

14. See how lavash is made at the GUM Market

In Armenia, lavash is an essential accompaniment to every meal. The technique and ritual involved in making and eating this paper-thin bread is so intertwined with Armenian heritage that in 2014, UNESCO recognised it as part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage.

Lavash comes in an astounding array of colours and textures, each one more delicate and airy than the last. The best place to see huge lavash sheets being prepared and sold is at the GUM Market on Movses Khorenatsi Street.

This is one of my favourite markets in the Caucasus. It’s relatively small, but I always spend a good hour here roaming the aisles, trying to guess what the more foreign-looking items might be, taste testing (people are always offering samples!), and photographing the vibrant displays.

The lavash shops are along the left-hand wall of the main hall. At the front of the market you’ll find candied fruits and nuts. Don’t miss the back section where the fresh produce and pickles live!

If you’re curious to see how Armenian lavash is made, check out this short video I made on a day trip from Yerevan:

→ For more photos and tips, see my guide to visiting the GUM Market.

• Location: 35 Movses Khorenatsi Street
• Get there: 5-minute walk from Zoravar Andranik metro station (2 stops from Republic Square)
• Opening hours: 11am-5pm daily
• Tip: I recommend visiting around noon when the market is liveliest

15. Ride the Yerevan Metro & admire the station architecture

In the Soviet era, when a city’s population hit one million people a state-sponsored metro would be built for the people. Anything less, and a simple tram system would suffice.

I’m told that Yerevan’s population never met the threshold but the city managed to bypass these rules by convincing authorities that the repatriation of the Armenian diaspora would cause the population to balloon. (It didn’t – in fact, Yerevan’s population wouldn’t hit one million until 2012!)

Yerevan’s metro line officially opened in 1981 and services just 10 inner-city stations (with two more on the way). Tunnels are burrowed 20-70 metres below the streets, and some stations are located above ground. It’s an easy way to travel from one side of the city to the other – and riding the metro is a fun experience in and of itself.

Yerevan’s metro is very retro – some of the original blue cars still shuttle along, and the system continues to operate on a plastic token system. To ride the trains, you must first exchange a coin for a plastic token at the cashier desk inside the entrance. Alternatively, you can buy a rechargeable metro card or pick up a Yerevan City Card , which includes free public transport.

You can find some great examples of quirky metro station art and architecture in Yerevan, with the most impressive Soviet-style wall friezes located on the platforms at Yeritasardakan Station and Barekamutyun Station.

The underground Republic Square Station is very impressive as well, with its sunken fountain and sculptural roof opening (pictured above).

• Opening hours: The Yerevan Metro runs from 7am-11pm daily
• Cost: 100 AMD per ride
• Tip: Station names and directions are written in English on the tunnel walls

16. Seek out Yerevan’s Soviet throwbacks

Armenia was a Socialist Republic for almost 70 years. Some of the city’s most prominent landmarks went up during this period, including the Opera House and Republic Square.

There are reminders of Armenia’s not-so-distant Soviet past all over the city – fans of Brutalist architecture and Soviet nostalgia are guaranteed to have a field day.

Apart from the spots already mentioned in this guide, other prominent examples of Socialist architecture in Yerevan include the hulking ‘Commieblock’ apartments around Andranik Metro Station (you can visit these on your way to the GUM Market).

Then there are the not-so-obvious Soviet-era constructions – many of them abandoned and untouched since the collapse of the USSR. I’ve heard there is an abandoned Soviet sports complex near the Genocide Memorial that’s become popular among urbexers in recent years. I’ve never been able to find it – if you have any leads on the exact location, please let me know!

17. Watch the weavers in action at the Megerian Carpet Museum

If you’re a fan of textiles and traditional crafts, don’t miss visiting the Megerian Carpet Museum. The location is a bit further out and requires a taxi ride from the centre, but it’s worth it to visit one of the most interesting places in Yerevan.

This private shop-museum is owned by a local family and exhibits a huge collection of antique and newly woven Armenian and Caucasian rugs. Wander through the carpet-laden rooms and compare the patterns and colours of different regional schools. Weaving and dyeing demonstrations usually take place during the day.

If you’re in the market to buy an Armenian carpet, this is one of the best places to find an authentic original or hand-woven replica.

If you don’t have time to venture out to Megerian, there is a second (much smaller) demonstration workshop and carpet museum-shop located in the bottom of Tufenkian Heritage Hotel , near the Vernissage Market (pictured above).

• Location: 9 Madoyan Street
• Get there: 20-minute walk from Garegin Nzhdehi Square metro station or 10-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays)

18. Spend an afternoon at the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe, one of my favourite hidden gems in Yerevan

Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe is my new favourite place in Yerevan. It opened back in 2018, but somehow I didn’t hear about it until 2023.

Born in Nakhchivan in 1946, Lusik Aguletsi was a painter and ethnographer who advocated for the preservation of Armenian culture. She relocated to Yerevan in 1953 and moved into her husband’s family home on a quiet street behind the railway station. This is now the venue for a house-museum dedicated to documenting her life’s work.

Lusik famously wore Armenian national dress every day. A large part of the museum collection is made up of embroidery and textiles that she sewed herself. You can also see a huge assortment of folk puppets, Lusik’s own canvases, and other cultural objects that she collected over her lifetime.

Part of the house has been converted into a restaurant where you can sit down for a meal amongst the antiques. I ordered the cucumber and basil lemonade and the arishta, a traditional Armenian pasta served with vegetables.

It was honestly one of the best meals I have had in Yerevan. I highly recommend eating here, then taking the short (free) tour of the museum.

Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe is walking distance from the Sasuntsi David Metro Station. On the way, stop to see the equestrian statue of David of Sassoun , located in front of the equally impressive railway station.

• Location: 79 Muratsan Street
• Get there: 15-minute walk from Sasuntsi David Metro Station
• Opening hours: Daily from 12pm-7pm
• Cost: Free (donations welcome)

19. Visit the house museum of filmmaker Sergei Parajanov

Another excellent museum and one of Yerevan’s quirkier institutions, the Sergei Parajanov House Museum is a small museum dedicated to the filmmaker and pioneer of 20th-century cinema who was born in Tbilisi but lived (and died) in Yerevan.

The museum recalls Parajanov’s avant-garde career through a collection of eclectic (sometimes irreverent) films, mixed-media collages and personal possessions . It’s a treasure box of curiosities and there are some truly wonderful art pieces in the mix. You really get a feel for his character and personality when you walk through.

Parajanov’s cult classic film, The Color of Pomegranates (1969), plays on a loop on a TV inside the museum. I highly recommend watching the movie before you visit the Caucasus region . You can buy it on DVD here .

• Location: Dzoragyugh 1st Street
• Get there: 15-minute walk from the Blue Mosque (near Kond)
• Opening hours: 10.30am-5pm daily
• Cost: 1,000 AMD

20. Explore Kond, Yerevan’s oldest neighbourhood

While you’ll probably spend most of your time in Kentron, Yerevan’s central district, you should also get out to explore Kond, a much smaller neighbourhood on the city’s western fringe. This is one of the best places in Yerevan to go for an aimless stroll.

In the absence of an official old town, the accolade of Yerevan’s oldest area goes to Kond. The neighbourhood is elevated on a hillside and can be reached either by steep street or via any one of the narrow staircases that lead up from the main road. Kond is mainly residential with an assortment of character-filled, tumbledown houses , overgrown gardens, and patched-up shacks.

Don’t be expecting a picture-perfect old town; Kond is a bit rough around the edges but beautiful in its own threadbare way. If you enjoy architecture and street photography , this is a great place to get lost for a couple of hours.

While in Kond, don’t miss the Saint Sarkis Cathedral , a humble church made from orange tuff stone sourced from Ani. If you need a break from walking, stop for a coffee and chat at Kondi Hayat , a new cafe in Kond.

21. Walk through the Kond Pedestrian Tunnel to Hrazdan Gorge

The Kond Pedestrian Tunnel is one of the many hidden gems in Yerevan. Built in the Soviet era, the long pedestrian walkway cuts under the Kond neighbourhood, joining the city centre from Saryan Street with Hrazdan Gorge.

Sections of the dimly lit 500-metre tunnel are decorated with graffiti and street art. On any given afternoon you’ll find the tunnel full of couples walking arm in arm, families out for a stroll and kids riding their bicycles.

At the end you emerge in Hrazdan Gorge , an unexpected urban green space that runs along the edge of the city by the river. Emerging from the tunnel on the other side of the rock wall, you almost immediately feel as if you’ve escaped the city and been transplanted to an urban oasis.

This is a great place to stroll in the fresh air. The Armenian Genocide Memorial can be spotted on the hill above the river, and you can follow the low path all the way around to the Ararat Yerevan Brandy Company factory . There’s even a zip line in the gorge.

22. Find the Children’s Railway

As you walk north along Hrazdan Gorge you’ll notice an apricot-coloured, castle-like building peeking out through the shrubs. This is the main station building for the Children’s Railway.

In Soviet times, this miniature railway was an interactive classroom where kids could come and learn about train engineering. The 2-kilometre track is still functioning and in the warmer months, you can see groups of excited little faces peeking out as the locomotive chugs along through the gorge.

The wooden station building is dated 1937 and is a blast from Yerevan’s Soviet past. Photograph the architecture, stroll through the nearby amusement park, or follow the railway track to find a natural swimming pool by the river.

23. See the whimsical wall drawings at the Khnko-Aper Children’s Library

I stumbled on this library completely by accident when looking for places to visit near Freedom Square. After seeing some interesting photos of wall murals on Google Maps, I decided to wander in… As I so often do, I walked through the lobby with purpose and no one gave me a second look.

Armenia’s national children’s library, Khnko-Apor was founded in 1933 and houses a collection of more than half a million books . There are dozens of different reading rooms (including Iranian and German halls) that seat up to 100 people, plus children’s play areas and educational spaces.

Rooms of particular note include the children’s reading room on the second level, and the reading room on the third floor. Both are decorated with hand-drawn illustrations that, as far I can tell, were created in the 1980s.

At first I couldn’t find the murals I was looking for, so I asked a staff member – she spoke perfect English and kindly showed me which doors I should look behind. As I kept exploring, I met a couple of other librarians who were all equally warm towards me and were happy for me to take photos.

• Location: 42/1 Teryan Street
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm

24. Stop by the historic Moscow Cinema

Built in 1936, the Moscow Cinema is one of Yerevan’s main landmarks from the Soviet period. It has been redesigned several times but it has kept the same name (emblazoned on the front entrance in both Armenian and Russian) – and it still serves its original purpose. Its four theatre halls show new release movies and host the annual Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival.

The concave facade has some interesting design details, and on both sides of the building you can see Soviet-style decorations. This is a public building and you are welcome to wander in for a look: As well as movie theatres, there is also a hotel inside (and on the second floor, a free and very clean restroom if you need it!).

I walked up to the movie theatre entrance and made a fabulous discovery – in one corner, partially hidden behind a movie poster, there is a very interesting Soviet-style bas relief that depicts music, theatre and the arts. Named ‘Gorani’ (I assume after the famous Western Armenian folk song), the clay sculpture was created in 1984 by architects B. Arzumanyan and E. Safaryan and artists V. Atanian and A. Hovsepyan.

Yerevan’s Saint Paul and Peter Church once stood on this spot before it was demolished by the Soviets in the early 1930s. Today the cinema opens out onto Charles Aznavour Square , where there is a very cute astrological fountain with Zodiac characters, plus a contemporary spider sculpture by Ara Alekyan crafted with debris from the 1988 Spitak Earthquake.

• Location: 18 Abovyan Street

25. Tour the Ararat Brandy Factory

The orange stone Ararat Brandy Factory building is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Yerevan. Inside, one of Armenia’s most iconic products comes to life: Ararat Brandy.

Established in 1887, Ararat is one of the oldest liquor companies in the Caucasus. The Yerevan facility houses 15,000 barrels – or one third of the company’s stock – and doubles as a museum and tasting room, where you can partake in a guided tour and brandy tasting .

I was always on the fence about whether or not to do the factory tour. On my first few visits to Yerevan, I skipped it – but when I recently visited again with my dad, he was eager to try it.

The tour is quite pricey – we paid 12,000 AMD per person for the most expensive program, the Ararat 10 Tour. That included tastings of three decade-old brandies, Akhtamar, Armenia and Dvin. Regular guided tours without tastings are also available for 4,500 AMD.

Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and professional – I actually really enjoyed the tour. If you have a spare hour and the history of brandy interests you, I think it’s worth adding to your Yerevan itinerary.

Bookings are recommended – we got lucky and arrived just as a group tour was starting, but normally you need a reservation to guarantee your place, especially if you’re visiting in the summer high season.

Competitor company Noy Brandy also offers guided tours and tastings at their facility on the opposite side of Victory Bridge.

• Location: 2 Admiral Isakov Avenue
• Get there: 5-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: Daily from 9am-6pm
• Cost: 4,500-12,000 AMD ( reservations here )

26. Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum & Memorial

While you’re out enjoying the finer things Yerevan has to offer, remember that things haven’t always been so rosy. The events of 1915 cast a long shadow over Armenia and are never too far from people’s memory.

As an Australian I’m embarrassed to admit that I knew nothing about the Armenian Genocide before I arrived in Yerevan. As uncomfortable as it may be, taking the time to learn about this chapter of world history that many of us have forgotten about is an absolutely essential part of any visit to Armenia.

The best place to learn, reflect and pay your respects is at Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex. The main part of the outdoor memorial consists of 12 concrete slabs, each representing a lost Armenian province. The eternal flame laid 1.5 metres deep is a tribute to the victims of the genocide.

Located next to the memorial, the Armenian Genocide Museum does an outstanding job of leading visitors through the tragic events of April 24, 1915. At times the exhibition is graphic and utterly gut-wrenching, but at the end you come away with a sense of Armenia’s fighting spirit and a new appreciation for the enduring culture, religion and traditions.

• Get there: 10-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: 11am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Cost: Free entry (donations welcome)

27. See a show at the Opera Theatre

One of the best things to do in Yerevan at night is dress up in your fanciest attire and catch a performance at the Armenian Opera Theatre.

The circular theatre on Freedom Square opposite the Cascade is enveloped by gardens. The small lake nearby is called Swan Lake – a tribute to the theatre’s first ballet performance in 1935. During the day, this is a lively area with children riding their bikes around the square and cafes set up along the nearby sidewalks.

There are five statues in the square , including the twin effigies of composer Alexander Spendiaryan and poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, both erected in 1957. Look under foot for commemorative plaques dedicated to famous Armenian artists , Hollywood Walk of Fame style. The eastern side of the theatre with the Opera Club entrance is very photogenic.

At night, the theatre lights up and the show begins. There are two halls seating 1400 and 1200 people each. When full, the atmosphere is electric. I was lucky enough to see Swan Lake here in spring 2017.

 If it’s playing, try to see Anoush , the first opera performed in Armenian that’s been on the playbill here since 1935. Otherwise I would suggest just buying tickets for whatever happens to be on – it’s more about the experience.

My trip to the opera in Yerevan was quite unusual. I showed up on the wrong night (I had accidentally bought tickets for the previous night’s performance) and ended up being snuck into the back of the theatre by a friendly stewardess! I had to stay on guard for the first half of the performance in case the rightful ticket holder showed up to claim my seat.

It’s recommended to buy tickets (for the correct night!) in advance from the box office out front. Note that there is no bar inside the theatre. Cloak rooms and bathrooms are downstairs.

• Location: Tumanyan Street
• Performance times: Check the program here

28. Feast on lahmajun & other Armenian delicacies

Much like Georgian food, Armenian cuisine is completely underrated . If you’re not familiar with the tastes and textures, eating out in Yerevan will definitely be a pleasant surprise.

One of my favourite dishes and something I always reach for when visiting Yerevan is lahmajun. Though not strictly an Armenian dish (it is a food culture shared with Turkiye, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East), it is very popular in Yerevan.

Lahmajun is essentially a flatbread topped with various ingredients ranging from vegetables to ground meat to simple Zaatar spice rubs. It always makes for an affordable and tasty meal.

Popular lahmajun joints in Yerevan include:

• Anteb : One of my favourite eateries in Yerevan (see more below), Anteb Restaurant specialises in Western Armenian dishes, including lahmajun.
• Lahmajun Gaidz : For creative lahmajun recipes that incorporate Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours.
• Elie’s Lahmajun : A local favourite close to Republic Square.

29. Grab a drink at Mirzoyan Library, Yerevan’s coolest bar

Yerevan nightlife is quite lively and there is no shortage of things to do once the sun goes down. According to my walking tour guide, Yerevan has more than 500 open-air cafes – I’d say that’s a conservative estimate! At night, you’ll find that many of these cafes transform into trendy wine and cocktail bars .

My favourite place to go for a drink in Yerevan is Mirzoyan Library . Set in a historic courtyard and house, it functions as a photography gallery slash library slash cafe during the day. The space was concocted by photographer Karen Mirzoyan to make her personal collection of fine photography books available to other young artists in the city.

In the evening, you can pull up an antique chair and sit on the rickety verandah or just perch yourself on one of the staircases. Wine and beer are served alongside non-alcoholic drinks. You can browse the books while you sip but you can’t take them home – no library cards here!

• Location: 10 Mher Mkrtchyan Street
• Opening hours: Midday to midnight daily

30. Taste Armenian wine at In Vino

Want to get acquainted with Armenian wine? Yerevan is home to the country’s leading wine bar and shop, In Vino on Saryan Street.

More than 25 wines are available by the glass so you can try a selection of locally produced drops from Areni and Armenia’s other wine-making regions. Prices start from a very reasonable 800 AMD.

For the full experience, pair your plonk with a tasting plate of local cheeses, cured meats and nuts. Delicious desserts also feature on the menu, or for something more substantial you can order a baguette sandwich (sold by the centimetre) or meals from nearby Tapastan.

Formal wine tastings are also available and include 4-6 Armenian wines.

• Location: 6 Martiros Saryan Street
• Opening hours: 11am-midnight daily
• Cost: From 800 AMD for a glass of wine
• Read next: Where to do a wine tasting in Tbilisi, Georgia

BONUS: Learn about the history of Yerevan on a walking tour

The city of Yerevan, like the nation of Armenia, has a long and complicated past. If you really want to sink your teeth into local history and culture while ticking off the major landmarks, then I highly recommend joining a walking tour.

Yerevan is home to an excellent free walking tour program that offers both general and culture-focused itineraries. Tours last 2-2.5 hours (although I ended up spending 4 hours with my guide when we did the introductory tour!), and usually depart from Republic Square. Remember to tip.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace and with your own guide, this private walking tour hits most of the major Yerevan landmarks, including Saint Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, the Opera Theatre, Cafesjian, and Victory Park.

Alternatively, this Evening Walking Tour of Yerevan starts at the Vernissage Market and is perfect if you’re travelling during summer and want to beat the heat of the day. And for something really special, you can tour Yerevan in a vintage GAZ-M20 Pobeda (nicknamed ‘Stalin’s Car’)!

My favourite cafes & restaurants in Yerevan

Anteb: The first place I go whenever I arrive in Yerevan. This no-frills restaurant specialises in Western Armenian cuisine and serves amazing manti dumplings and lahmajun topped flatbread.

Dargett Craft Beer: If wine isn’t your cup of tea, Armenia has a budding craft beer scene with a growing number of specialty bars in Yerevan. Dargett Craft Beer is the city’s leading brew pub, with artisanal beers on tap, a huge selection of bottles, and a menu of crowd-favourite beer snacks (think fish and chips, onion rings and Poutine). Their own craft beers (including stout, pale ale and pilsners) are made in Armenia on local spring water

The Green Bean Cafe: My go-to in Yerevan for good coffee and light, healthy meals. This cafe has a strong focus on fresh, plant-based food but the menu spans a huge range of offerings. There are 3 branches in the city, including one adjacent to the Cascade and another on Amiryan Street.

Sherep: ‘Elevated’ Armenian fare and scrumptious desserts, including a chocolate mousse with local brandy – yum.

Tapastan: Local wines and Armenian dishes served tapas sharing-plate style.

Dolmama: This restaurant is a bit more pricey but it’s a Yerevan institution so I definitely recommend trying it once. The dolma is excellent – obviously!

Yerevan Map

Click here to open my Yerevan City Map in Google Maps .

Recommended day trips from Yerevan

For budget-friendly guided tours from Yerevan, I recommend travelling with Hyur Service . I have personally used them several times. Guides are professional, drivers safe, and although the itineraries are often long, they usually incorporate lots of stops along the way.

Here are some of the most popular day trip options offered by Hyur and other companies. Some of these places can also be visited independently.

Garni Temple & Geghard Monastery: The 1st-century Garni Temple and medieval Geghard Monastery are within a 15-minute drive of each other and are thus often paired as a side trip from Yerevan. Both are visually spectacular and have a fascinating history. This is my top choice of easy day trip, involving roughly 2 hours of driving in total.

This group tour to Garni and Geghard also includes an Armenian lavash-baking demonstration.

Echmiadzin & Zvartnots: Echmiadzin (Vagharshapat) is home to the stunning Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. On the drive from Yerevan, tours often stop at the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral and the much-photographed ring of columns that frames views of Mount Ararat. Total driving time is around 90 minutes. This trip can also be done independently by public transport ( marshrutka ).

This group tour with Hyur Service runs for 4-5 hours and includes Mother See, several smaller churches and Zvartnots.

Khor Virap: Khor Virap monastery is located roughly an hour from Yerevan, very close to the Turkish border. If you want spectacular views of Mount Ararat, this is the place to go.

This trip to Khor Virap with Hyur includes a wine tasting in Areni and a visit to Birds Cave where some of Armenia’s most important archaeological finds were unearthed. They also offer a private 8-hour combination tour to Khor Virap, Garni Temple & Geghard.

Lake Sevan & Dilijan: Armenia’s largest lake and the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery are under 90-minutes drive from Yerevan. This isn’t my top choice of day trip, but it’s a convenient option if you want some fresh air and lake views.

This budget-friendly group tour offered by Hyur visits Dilijan, Armenia’s ‘little Switzerland’, and two beautiful forest monasteries after Lake Sevan.

Tatev Monastery: This iconic monastery accessed by cable car is in Armenia’s far-south and can be visited in a day – but be warned that it requires a lot of driving (around 4.5 hours each way). I did this day trip on my first visit to Armenia and it was tolerable, but only because the tour made lots of stops along the way, including at the wonderful Noravank Monastery. Read my tips for getting to Tatev from Yerevan here .

This terrific Tatev group tour includes a ride on the Wings of Tatev and a guided tour of Tatev Monastery plus a local Armenian lunch, wine tasting at Hin Areni Winery and a stop at Karahundj (Armenia’s Stonehenge). If you want to pack a lot in, this is my top choice of day trip from Yerevan.

Haghpat & Sanahin: This is another long day trip (6 hours on the road at a minimum). If your itinerary allows, I recommend visiting the two UNESCO monasteries in far-northern Lori from Vanadzor instead. (You can also visit from Tbilisi .)

This private tour to Lori from Yerevan includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English speaking guide, and also visits Odzun Monastery in addition to Haghpat and Sanahin.

Headed to Tbilisi next? Check out my list of awesome things to do in Georgia’s capital city and my recommended Tbilisi day trips .

Best time to visit Yerevan

Yerevan is an all-weather city, but there are still defined high/low seasons and times of the year when the forecast is more likely to be on your side.

I would avoid visiting Yerevan in summer (June through to early September) – this is high season when prices go up, plus it’s stifling hot (up to 35 or 40 degrees Celsius in the city). Winters in Yerevan are quite mild, and the temperature rarely drops below zero. January is the coldest month, with average daytime temperatures of 2 degrees.

I first visited Yerevan in spring and still think this is one of the nicest times to visit the city (and Armenia as a whole). May can be a bit rainy, but April/May is generally very pleasant temperature-wise. Outdoor cafes start reopening and you’ll see beautiful flower markets overflowing on every sidewalk. The energy is wonderful.

I had the pleasure of spending Easter in Yerevan and loved observing Easter traditions. I also had a chance to mark Genocide Remembrance Day in Yerevan , a sombre yet heartwarming occasion that commemorates the events on and around April 24, 1915.

Fall (late September to November) is temperate and another nice time of year to visit.

How many days do you need in Yerevan?

To see the highlights, experience Yerevan’s cafe culture and soak up the city atmosphere, I recommend spending at least 2 full days in Yerevan , 3 if possible. You could very easily stay longer – and you might be tempted to!

While you can get a good overview of Yerevan in the space of a day, you will definitely feel rushed and you’ll have to sacrifice on some things.

One of the best things about Armenia is that you can travel almost anywhere in the country from Yerevan and still be back for a late dinner. Thus I also recommend setting aside 1 or 2 additional days for side trips from the capital.

See my favourite day trips from Yerevan listed above.

How to get to Yerevan

Zvartnots International Airport is located 15 kilometres west of Yerevan and is Armenia’s main hub for air travel. The airport is serviced by Qatar Airways, Pegasus, FlyDubai and Wizz Air, making it relatively easy to reach Yerevan from Western Europe, Turkey and the Middle East .

→ Book a private transfer to your hotel in Yerevan here . Prices start from just $13 per group.

If you’re travelling overland, there are several options available for entering Armenia from neighbouring Georgia or Iran. Because of Yerevan’s location and the quality of roads, it’s more convenient to enter from Georgia.

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

How to get to Yerevan from Tbilisi

My preferred way to travel between Georgia and Armenia’s capital cities is on the overnight sleeper train. Trains run every night in the summer high season and every second night in the low season.

Trains are comfortable, safe, fast – and fun. Find my comprehensive guide to the Tbilisi Yerevan train here (and find a code to buy discounted tickets inside).

Marshrutka minivans and taxis are also available. I personally try to avoid long-distance road travel in the Caucasus whenever possible, but if you prefer not to use the railway, then this is another option. The ride takes 5-6 hours on average including border procedures.

Is Yerevan safe for tourists?

Yerevan has very low crime rates overall and although theft and pickpocketing do occur from time to time, the chances of you being targeted as a tourist are very, extremely slim.

In my experience, people in Yerevan are far more likely to shout you a taxi fare or a drink than to try and swindle you (this has happened to me multiple times). Tourist scams do occur, but nowhere near as often as in some Western European capitals.

Based on my own experiences and from talking to other travellers and friends who have lived in Yerevan, this is an extremely safe city overall, even for solo female travellers. I would not hesitate to walk alone down a city street in Yerevan at night, and similarly I would have no reservations about using the metro, visiting crowded places, etc.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t exercise common sense and a normal level of caution when visiting Yerevan. Take care of your belongings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you, and be mindful of personal space.

Be vigilant when crossing the street. Use a taxi app to book cabs or negotiate the fare in advance. Avoid travelling on the road after dark – traffic and road safety are probably the biggest safety issues for tourists in Armenia, just as they are concerns in neighbouring Georgia .

Protests and demonstrations do occur in Yerevan; it’s best to avoid large gatherings in case things get out of hand.

Is Yerevan expensive? Yerevan travel budget

Much like Georgia , Armenia is an extremely budget-friendly destination overall. Being the capital, Yerevan is one of the more expensive places to visit in the country but it’s still very affordable, certainly by European city standards. Personally I find Yerevan a touch more expensive than Tbilisi.

The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian dram or AMD. At the time of writing 1 USD = 515 AMD .

Here are some approximate costs (per person) based on my most recent trip to Yerevan:

• One night in a mid-range hotel/guesthouse: 14,000 AMD (26 USD)
• Meal in a mid-range restaurant: 4000-7000 AMD (7.50-15 USD)
• Latte in a cafe: 1300 AMD (2.40 USD)
• Bottle of Armenian wine: 3500 AMD (6.60 USD)
• Metro fare: 100 AMD (0.20 USD)
• Taxi fare within the city: 500-1000 AMD (1-2 USD)
• Museum ticket: 1000 AMD (1.90 USD)

A mid-range traveller staying in a hotel/guesthouse, eating out twice a day, visiting museums and using a combination of metro and taxis to get around should budget around 25,000 AMD (47 USD) per person per day for Yerevan.

You can very easily reduce your costs by sticking to free attractions (there are plenty on this list), eating local meals, and staying in budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses.

What are your favourite things to do in Yerevan? If you have any tips, please share them in the comments below.

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32 Comments

Hi Emily Fantastic web site! Have you visited the Ararat Distillery in Yerevan?, and, do you know of any old record shops in both Armenia and Georgia Thanks Frank

Hi Frank! Yes actually I just visited for the first time a couple of weeks ago. I will be updating this post soon! Are you looking for vintage vinyl specifically? In Georgia the best place for that is the markets – Dry Bridge and Barakholka particularly.

LOVE your write up! went to Georgia/Armenia in 2019 June and LOVED the food, the alcohol,the cities and countries. Advice please: my bday is in March, and I want to take my family to see Yerevan. I LOVED the cafes in the summer. do you think mid-March is a good enough time to introduce my family to Yerevan? I hope so, bc I really want to go and see near my bday (spring break, bc I work in schools and have a 10th grader). thank you?

Thank you Sandy! March is still quite chilly in this part of the world, but I think you’ll still enjoy Yerevan at that time of year. There might be less outdoorsy stuff on (I once visited in April around Orthodox Easter and we had to sit inside to eat most days), but on the plus side it will be nice and quiet.

Your article/blog is so inspiring, we were wondering whether Yerevan/Dilijan is a budget-friendly option to travel from Dubai, and your article says it all. We are planning a 3 day holiday in July. Yes it would be hot, but we are going for it. Your explanation was really helpful, and you have provided so many wonderful options. Planning out an itinerary myself, instead of going through tour agents. So thanks again.

Great Akshaya! Dilijan is a little cooler than the city of course, I think it’ll be quite nice! Enjoy!

One of my my favorite destinations is the observatory on mount Aragats. I’ve been to the telescope many years ago and heard that it is still open for school kids. I was wondering if there are any public options for staying overnight at the Physics Institute and stargazing through the telescope at the observatory.

I had not come across this before but it sounds wonderful! There is something similar here in Georgia at Abastumani. I’m not sure if there is accommodation available but hopefully someone else can answer.

We visited the LUYS book store, which is now called Books 1512. That’s a great find! I remember my first impressions when we were driving from the airport to our hotel, I saw a book store with high security bars, and was laughing that the book store has more security than the exclusive boutiques, but I didn’t realize it was this very store that you mentioned in your blog. It’s so gorgeous inside! I’ve never held such ancient books in my hands before. Thank you!

Great to hear that, Vera! It’s a very special spot. Thank you for the name update!

Been wanting to travel to Armenia since 2008 and tomorrow I actually fly there and your blog on Armenia is getting me psyched! Thanks for many useful tips 😉

Amazing Alejandro! That’s a long time in the making. I hope you love it as much as I do!

So beautiful! It made me even cry when I saw you wrote about Kond as I am from there. I haven’t been to Armenia already 2,5 years, I missed even more my country after reading your incredible descriptions.

Thank you for you comment, Gohar! I hope you get a chance to go back to Yerevan soon. Kond is such an interesting part of the city, I really loved walking those streets and exploring.

I am very excited to be traveling there in May for a week. Do you have a local tour guide that you might recommend? I like to explore but appreciate someone who knows a thing or two. Also, any tried & tested “must see” shops with local flair?

Great to hear! I recommend joining the free walking tour when you arrive.

Here are my favourite shops in Yerevan: https://wander-lush.org/shopping-in-yerevan-armenian-souvenirs/

Enjoy your trip!

Thank you for this amazing information. I left when I was 8 only. I am trying to go back and visit. Hopefully after the pandemic. This is very helpful. I was born in Vanadzor and would love to visit. Thanks again.

I have been to Vanadzor, it’s a lovely city! I haven’t had a chance to post about it yet but I’ll get to it soon. That’s great that you’re planning to go back. You might find this interview I did useful too: https://wander-lush.org/armenia-heritage-tourism/

Let me know if there’s anything at all I can help with. Fingers crossed you can start planning your trip soon!

Great article, informative with colorful pictures, thank you Emily!!

Thanks Sam! Appreciate it 🙂

Emily, thank you for this! I’m an Armenian and am planning to visit for the first time next summer! Thank you for your kind words, I really appreciate it 🙂

Hi Gassia! That’s so exciting! I hope you have fun planning your trip. Feel free to reach out if there’s anything I might be able to help with 🙂

Hi ememelie, I am traveling Armenia right now and it is a pleasure to read your blog if I need some inspiration. Thank you! I was wondering with what kind of camera you’re working? Best, Lena

Thank you, Lena! Glad to hear that 🙂 I use an Olympus OM-D E-M1. It’s a mirrorless digital.

We are planning to visit Yerevan next March , is it enough to explore this city ( and surrounding if possible ) within 4 or 5 days ? thanks in advance for your reply ….

Hi Nurul! Yes, I think 4-5 days would suffice if you’re happy to be busy. In that time you can see the highlights of the city and do a few day trips. Almost everywhere is reachable as a day trip, even Tatev Monastery (I have a post on that too). Consider using a company such as Hyur Service to make things easier.

Yerevan is a wonderful city! I hope you love it!

Could you tell me where you stay in Yerevan, could you recommend the airbnb, or hostel to stay in Yerevan, thanks.

We were in Yerevan for 10 days so we chose to stay at an Airbnb. It was fantastic—one of the best-appointed apartments we’ve ever stayed in, and our host, Arman, was wonderful. Here is the link: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/17788633

Fantastic read! I didn’t know that about the one million/get a metro thing. I love riding on old Soviet metro systems ☺. Reading through your Caucasus posts you’ve cemented the region in my travel thoughts! I’ve heard lots of great things about Yerevan, your photos capture it beautifully.

Glad to have found your blog!

Thanks so much, Kim! Yerevan is a wonderful city. I’m sure you would love it!

Thank you for sharing your experience! My dad’s family is Armenian and I have always wanted to visit the country.

Thank you, Elizabeth! We really enjoyed Armenia, particularly the warm hospitality. I hope you get to visit soon!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

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

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

Map of the best places in Armenia

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

10. Dilijan National Park

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

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

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

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

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

8. Debed Canyon

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

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

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

7. Areni Wine Country

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

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

6. Khor Virap Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

4. Lake Sevan

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

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

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

3. Noravank

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

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

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

2. Geghard Monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Places to Visit in Armenia

• Places To Visit

Armenia Places to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

Best of Turkey

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

Best of Georgia

Other attractions.

Garni Temple

Geghard Monastery

Republic Square

Sanahin Monastery

Amberd Fortress

Saghmosavank Monastery

The Alphabet Monument

Zvartnots Cathedral

Zorats Karer

Shikahogh State Reserve

Dilijan National Park

Mount Aragats

Tatev Monastery

Karahunj Observatory

Tsaghkadzor

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Best of Armenia , Practical Information

35 very useful things to know before you visit armenia.

You’ve probably stumbled upon this guide because you’re planning to visit Armenia . This post will detail everything we think you need to know before you travel to Armenia – from information about the language to secrets from locals.

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!

If you have additional questions, please send us a message or leave us a comment! We hope you find this useful!

Visit Armenia: Tips & Information

Armenia. You may have heard of it, or you might have not, but somewhere high in the Caucasus mountains is where this wonderful country is located. With magical nature, ancient history, and heritage that is not yet fully discovered, it is a country with so much to offer.

So what is Armenia? A little country that you might associate with the Kardashians or System of Down, but trust us, Armenia is the new, hot destination to travel to and it’s known for a lot more than just that.

As an Armenian, it’s easy to write about my own country, and that’s why my friend Megan has joined me to create this website about Armenia where we can deliver honest and informative articles about my homeland.

For me, I was able to see Armenia from a different angle because I was analyzing it from my friend’s point of view and learning what makes it such a great and unique place for travelers.

Based on our travels in Armenia and the fact that I’m a local, we often ask ourselves why it’s not crowded with tourists from around the world?

Armenia has all the necessary features for the perfect travel destination; fantastic nature and landscapes, delicious and fresh food, super hospitable people, and it’s really affordable and cheap to travel in for non-locals.

In addition to all this, starting in 2020, airlines are offering cheap and budget flights from Europe to Yerevan and Gyumri, which makes this hidden gem much more accessible to travelers and history lovers.

We have seen, and are still discovering, amazing and breathtaking sights in this little country of colors and contrasts. This guide will prepare you to visit a truly amazing destination and tell you everything you need to do and know before you visit Armenia.

What to Know Before You Travel to Armenia

We try to hit all points of what we deem useful information for this post.  If something is missing that you’d like to know, specific destination information, please shoot us a message or leave a comment so we can answer!

1. Where is Armenia?

It might be a bit challenging to find Armenia on the map, and you might have never heard of it, but it is located in the southern Caucasus region; Georgia borders it to the north, Iran to the south, Turkey to the west and Azerbaijan to the east.

Armenia is a landlocked country and it’s important to know that it’s not possible to get to Armenia overland from Turkey or Azerbaijan because of political issues.

2. Armenian Nature

Armenia has a surprisingly diverse nature for being such a small country… from mesmerizing green canyons and gorges to dry and colorful mountains to semi-desert landscapes.

The biggest lake in the Caucasus is also found in Armenia. Lake Sevan , is considered to be the blue pearl of the country. It is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, little islands, and gorgeous villages.

There are several national parks and reserves all over the country such as Dilijan National Park or the Khosrov Reserve , a place considered to be one of the oldest protected areas in history. Approximately seventeen centuries ago, the reserve was founded and its ecosystem is absolutely amazing.

Despite its small size, Armenia is one of the most mountainous countries in the world as mountains make up almost 90% of the country.

3. Seasons in Armenia

Each season has a different beauty in the Caucasian country. You can hike in the colorful autumn mountains, ski, and snowboard in Tsaghkadzor spa town in the winter, or chill out in green Dilijan guesthouses in the summer.

Spring is also special in Armenia because of the vibrant colors and blooming flowers saturating the country.

4. Armenian Culture and History

Armenia is one of those rare countries that still exists despite having more than 6000 years of history. Many civilizations have disappeared over the decades, but as a surprise to many, Armenia has managed to conserve its cultural heritage with traditions that still exist today.

There is a lot of archeological evidence that shows existing civilizations in the Bronze Age in the modern theory of Armenia dating back to 4000 BC.

It’s possible to see heritage from the different stages of Armenian history, like the Pagan Temple of Garni or the Christian churches in Etchmiadzin that were one of the first in history as Armenia was the first country that adopted Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD.

Armenians were always famous for creating art from stone because of its abundance in the country. This is evident from the Pagan frescas and Christian cross-stones (khachkars) alongside the mesmerizing churches and temples around the country, and the ruins of the castles and caves that have their hidden secrets.

The strongest and most famous king in Armenian history was King of the Kings Tigranes the Great (95–55 BC), under which the Armenian kingdom became one of the strongest kingdoms of that time. During that period, the Armenian empire spread from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean Sea.

When is the Best Time to Visit Armenia?

Armenian has pretty much all types of weather- from hot summers to dry, cold winters with significant amounts of snow in almost all regions of the country.

The hottest time in Armenia is from June to September when the temperature can fluctuate between 37- 40 Celsius, but the evenings promise a cool breeze coming from the mountains. Temperatures also depend on where you are in the country; it’s not as hot in the north compared to the south during the summer.

Winters in Armenia are dry and cold, and during this time temperatures can drop as low as -15 Celsius. However, winter activities and sports are easily accessible, such as skiing in Ashotsk or Tsaghkadzor where you can enjoy cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and winter hikes in the places.

Another plus of visiting Armenia during the winter is spending New Year’s there as the country is partying the entire time. Also, accommodation and Yerevan Airbnbs are comparably cheap during that period.

Once it’s spring in Armenia , like in many places, the weather in Armenia becomes pleasant and many festivals like Yerevan Wine Days, BBQ Fest, and the Urvakan Electronic Music Festival take place in the country.

Summers in Armenia are the perfect time to take multiple day trips from Yerevan to all throughout the country when the weather’s hot and you will have a unique opportunity to discover an ancient country. Within approximately 10 days, you can see amazing cultural and historical heritage.

Our favorite season is autumn in Armenia .  This is when the weather is just perfect for outdoor activities, camping, and day trips. In our opinion, the beginning of autumn is the best time to visit Armenia .  It is just so picturesque!

From Dilijan’s lush forest to Noravank Monastery’s surrounding area, you will see the true colors of Armenian nature during fall.

What is Armenia Known For?

As we mentioned before, Armenia is an ancient country and its heritage from different times in history is unique and somewhat well-known worldwide.

The small country has many sights that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and there are still many undiscovered places that are gaining more and more interest from archaeologists.

Below are a few things that have put Armenia on the map.

5. First Christian Nation in the World

Armenia is the first country that adopted Christianity as an official state religion in 301 AD, over 1700 years ago.

The major figure of the spread of Christianity in Armenia was Gregory The Illuminator who was first dungeoned because of his religious view in Khor Virap . He was imprisoned for 13 years but was later released by Tiridates III.

Gregory the Illuminator is the founder of the Armenian Church and responsible for Armenia becoming a Christian nation.

The Armenian Church is known as apostolical because of two students, Bartholomew and Thaddeus of Jesus. Thaddeus came to Armenia to try to spread Christianity after his crucifixion.

The first Christian churches in Armenia, and probably some of the first ones in the world, were built and still exist in the city of Etchmiadzin today.  The city name translates to “the only born came down”.

Etchmiadzin Cathedral, St. Hripsime, Zvartnots church ruins, and others are protected by UNESCO World Heritage today and are some of the top things to see in Armenia.

6. UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Armenia

As just mentioned, the churches and cathedrals in and around Etchmiadzin are protected by UNESCO.

Other important places that are UNESCO sites in Armenia are Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley and the Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin .

7. Armenian Duduk

For more than 3000 years, this amazing instrument, with soul-touching sounds, has existed in Armenia and when it’s being played, it feels like time stops.

Duduk, or the original historical name Tsiranapogh, is an Armenian wooden instrument that looks very simple at first glance and in translation means “apricot-made clarinet”.

The sound of the Armenian duduk is so magical that it was placed on the list of Masterpieces of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO .

8. Ararat Mountain

A legendary and iconic mountain for all Armenians that is technically located in the modern territory of Turkey is the mountain ‘Ararat’, also known as Holy Mountain.

Ararat is a two-peak mountain made up of small Sis and big Masis mountains and has been represented in Armenian history since ancient times, known as a holy mountain and symbol with an elevation of 5,137 meters.

It is a Biblical mountain since it is mentioned in the Bible that Noah’s ark landed on Mount Ararat and it is where life supposedly started after the flood.

On a beautiful, clear day, it is possible to see Ararat from the capital Yerevan and you can admire its beauty, might, and harmony.

9. Lavash (Bread)

A unique flatbread that is in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is Lavash .

Not a single ingredient has changed over the centuries in the preparation of ancient Lavash bread in Armenia… even the cooking method has remained the same!

Armenian traditional lavash has very simplistic ingredients but it is one of the tastiest breads in the world. It consists of flour, water, and salt. That’s it!

Lavash is baked in the traditional tonir (tandoor), a clay hole in the ground. That is how the bread has been baked for centuries and you can even see it baked in several places in Armenia today this way (including some restaurants that have open kitchens like Sherep and Lavash ).

In Armenia, there is a special name for cheese and herbs wrapped in a lavash – ‘ bruch ‘. It’s one of the simplest, yet most delicious things in the world.

Another interesting fact about lavash bread is that it’s possible to dry it and keep it for over 6 months, then wet it when ready to eat. Armenians have been doing this for centuries and it lasts without any problems.

10. Khor Virap Monastery

Translated from Armenian, Khor Virap means deep dungeon and this is where Gregory The Illuminator was jailed for 14 years.

Khor Virap is one of the most special places to visit in Armenia because of its location and mind-blowing view of Mount Ararat.

The 5th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God that is located on a hilltop gives it another charm and is an amazing addition to the view of Mount Ararat, which seems surprisingly close despite being rather far away by distance.

Khor Virap is surrounded by green fields and vineyards and the monastery is one of the gems of Armenia that no one should miss when visiting the country (or Ararat marz !).

It is also extremely easy to get from Yerevan to Khor Virap with options on public transportation, as well as affordable tour options.

11. Ararat Brandy

Like we mentioned before Mount Ararat and its name is iconic and very popular among Armenians. You will see many brands that have Ararat in their name but one of the most popular brands that exist in Armenia and is known worldwide is Ararat Brandy (or cognac as the locals say).

The legendary and famous Ararat brandy factory is located in Yerevan on top of a hill next to the Hrazdan gorge and has a big history and legacy to tell.

Armenian Brandy actually gained popularity at the beginning of the 20th century because of Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill.

At the Yalta Conference in 1945, Joseph Stalin presented Winston Churchill with a bottle of Ararat Brandy (Dvin).  Winston Churchill, a fervent brandy lover, fell in love with Ararat Brandy and as a result, Stalin sent Churchill 400 bottles of Dvin batch Ararat Brandy annually.

For Armenians, besides wine, cognac has to be of top quality and that quality has been delivered for more than 100 years by Ararat brandy and this is just one more thing that puts Armenia on the map.

It’s also possible to take a tour of the factory to see how Ararat brandy is made, learn the history of the factory, and enjoy the brandy itself with some great dried fruits and chocolate.

12. Armenian Carpets (Rugs)

For centuries, Armenians have been known for creating one of the best and most beautiful carpets in the world. It is a tradition to have a carpet inside an Armenian house as a part of the interior decoration.

It is possible to see how carpets and rugs are made in Armenia at the Megerian Carpet Center or Tufenkian Hotel next to the Vernissage.

The traditional ornaments are made by hand just like it was done centuries ago and these masterpieces are truly pleasing to the eye.

13. Khachkars

A unique and typical Armenian stone art known as ‘khachkars’ (cross-stones) is one of the most popular art forms in Armenia.

A khachkar is a big piece of stone with Christian art carved into it coming from the 4th century that shows the skills of the Armenian masters. There are still thousands of khachkars from ancient times that have been preserved until this day.

Because it is so special to Armenia, it is no surprise that its ornaments and symbols are included in the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

One of the most famous places to see Armenian khachkars from various decades of Armenian history is Noratus Cemetery . At Noratus, it is possible to see cross-stones from the 10th century! It is truly a fascinating, open-air museum.

14. History of the Silk Road in Armenia

When people think of the Silk Road, they more often than not think of China and Central Asia.  However, Armenia, like other places in the Caucasus, played an important role in trading on the Silk Road, especially Artashat.

While many remnants and traces of the Silk Road are gone in this part of the world, you can still see traces down in Vayots Dzor region at Orbelyan’s Caravanserai , an important inn for traders that existed and was saved.

15. Pomegranates and Apricots

The pomegranate is not only a fruit that grows in Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), but it is also phenomenal and widely used in food and is also one of the most popular symbols for Armenia used in art and architecture.

Walking down the streets of Yerevan, it is possible to see pomegranates engraved and carved into the buildings’ facades.

Nowhere else in the world do apricots (tsiran) grow and taste as delicious as they do in Armenia. The ancient fruit, mentioned in many old manuscripts, is truly the pride of Armenia.

Even the famous Duduk (Tsiranapogh) is made from the apricot tree. The fruit is widely used in Armenia and gets exported to many countries every year.

You will also find pomegranate and apricots used in foods and wines.

16. First Winery in the World

If you didn’t already know, the first winery known to the modern world was founded in Armenia in Areni village. It dates back to 6100 BC.

Areni is known to be one of the most popular wine regions of Armenia where the highest quality libation is made, so it was no surprise that they discovered the oldest winery in the world inside the Areni-1 Cave .

In Areni-1, it is possible to see where the wine was made and how the ancient, clay wine barrels were dug into the soil.

In some of those barrels, young female bones were discovered as signs of sacrifice. It’s a truly unique place to visit in Armenia and to be able to see the traces of the world’s oldest winery.

Besides the winery, in the same Areni-1 cave, the world’s oldest leather shoe was discovered. It is approximately 5,500 years old.

17. Temple of Garni (Pagan Temple)

Even though Armenia has a big Christian history, its Pagan history is just as important. The perfect example is the only preserved Pagan Temple in the country. The Temple of Garni dates back to 1 AD and was dedicated to the God of Sun Mihr.

It is truly an amazing gem located on the edge of the Azat Gorge, yet another mind-blowing location that the ancient Armenian kings and queens used as a royal summer house.

The Temple of Garni is one of the most beloved places for travelers to visit because of its interesting structure and impressive location in the Caucasus region.

18. Tatev Monastery

If you want to learn about the spiritual life of Armenia, then it is a must to take a trip to Tatev Monastery . It has breathtaking architecture and is a spiritual Christian construction isolated from the world on the edge of the Vorotan River.

The 9th-century Tatev Monastery complex and the fortifications is an iconic Christian symbols of Armenia. It is located up in the mountains.  That is why, based on ancient myths, it is called Tatev, which translates to “give wings” in Armenian.

In the Middle Ages, Tatev Monastery was known as one of the best universities in Armenia where it was possible to study religion, science, and philosophy.

To get to Tatev Monastery, you need to ride on the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway which is 5.7 km long. The ride is gorgeous and the views are mesmerizing- you get the feeling that you are flying in the sky as you cross the gorge. This is why the tramway was given the name Wings of Tatev .

19. Armenia’s Velvet Revolution in 2018

Armenia has a remarkable ancient history and heritage, but modern Armenia also shows the world its effort to create a great democratic environment for its citizens and all the visitors to this beautiful country.

To move forward in 2018, the Armenian nation initiated a peaceful velvet revolution to remove its then-corrupt party from power as it was not leading the country with a democratic lifestyle or standards.

Armenia’s example of a peaceful velvet revolution was exceptional for many post-Soviet countries showcasing that one small country facing many problems with corruption was able to unite and, without any victims, make changes to their country and its political system.

20. Yerevan Metro

Built during the Soviet era and becoming fully operational in 1981, the Yerevan Metro is probably one of the smallest metro systems in all post-Soviet countries. However, it is one of the best secrets of Yerevan as it is affordable, efficient, and will get you from point A to point B.

The Armenian government is working on opening more metro stops and the construction has already started. The current number of stops is limited (only ten!) but are very clean and have artistic designs.

The most noticeable Yerevan metro station is the post-modern Yeritasardakan (Youth) Station and the beautiful fountains at the Republic Square Station .

The full length of the metro is 13.4 km and the working hours are from 6.30 am to 11 pm. The price of a ticket is 100 AMD and you will notice that plastic coins are still being used in Armenia but there is talk that that will change shortly.

21. Armenian Language

The Armenian language is an Indo-European language and is considered to be one of the oldest in the world. The Armenian alphabet was invented by Mesrop Mashtots in 406 AD and faced several evolutions during the coming centuries.

In the language in Armenia, there is a “dead language” called Graphar. It is used during church ceremonies, but not in daily life.

Nowadays, the Armenian language is divided into two parts: Western Armenian , which is used by the diaspora, and Eastern Armenian , which is used in Armenia today.

There are 39 letters in the Armenian alphabet and it is considered a national point of pride of the nation… so much that there is a monument dedicated to the Armenian Alphabet’s 1600th anniversary.

With an ancient alphabet, Armenia has many unique Armenian expressions that only other Armenians understand!

22. Western Armenia

The modern territory of Armenia is only 30% of what its historical territory was. The lands and territories have changed so many times throughout history.

Armenia used to be a lot bigger (territory-wise) in the past, but after the Armenian Genocide in 1915 and after becoming part of the Soviet Union, it lost its historical territories. Still today, Armenians refer to these lands as Western Armenia even though they fall under present-day Turkey.

Western Armenia used to be one of the biggest cultural and industrial centers of the region, and cities like Kars and Ani were the result of Armenians’ brilliant architectural and business minds.

Still today, there are many historical remains, churches, and cities that showcase why Armenians still consider Western Armenia a historical homeland.

23. Chess in Armenia

Despite its small population of only 3 million, Armenia has gained popularity around the world for its love and success at the game of chess.

Armenians love playing chess and it’s even part of their school program because they believe that the love for this intellectual game should start at a young age.

This small country has had several World Chess Champions : grandmaster Tigran Petrosian, Levon Aronian (one of the leaders of FIDE’s ranking list), and the Armenian National Chess team- which won the World Team Championship, European Team Championship, and the Chess Olympiad.

If you are a chess fan, then it’s just another reason to visit Armenia as it’s one of the most beloved games in the country, played from people’s backyards to international professional stages.

24. Armenian Genocide

One of the most tragic historical events that happened to Armenians and the Armenian nation is the Armenian Genocide . It was the first genocide of the 20th-century.

The horrific massacre happened in 1915 by the Turkish ‘Young Turks’ ruling party and as a result, 1,500,000 people lost their lives.

The Armenian nation not only lost many of its residents’ lives during this time but also a significant part of its historical homeland (Western Armenia).

This is why there are over 10,000,000 Armenians living outside of Armenia today.

Each year on April 24th, a march takes place to the Tsitsernakaberd Genocide Memorial in Yerevan where the whole nation pays respect to the victims of the tragedy.

25. The Armenian Diaspora (and Famous Armenians)

One interesting fact about the Armenian people and its population is that there are more Armenians living outside of Armenia these days than inside of it.  Armenia has one of the biggest diaspora in the world and it is really large in countries like the USA, Russia, and France.

Today, there are over 10,000,000 diaspora and the reason dates back to the Armenian Genocide, as mentioned above.

Americans may know of some of the famous diaspora Armenians .  Some of them are the Kardashians, Cher, Andre Agassi, Michael Vartan, Dita von Teese, Alex Ohanian (Reddit founder), Joe Manganiello, System of a Down, and more.

26. Gyumri Earthquake (Spitak Earthquake)

On December 7th, 1988, another tragedy took place in the cities of Gyumri and Spitak; they were hit by a 7-magnitude earthquake.

Gyumri is the artistic city of Armenia and has always been known as the creative center of Armenia. The devastating earthquake damaged the city very badly, mostly destroying Soviet-era buildings and a part of the Old City.

More than 40,000 people died due to the devastating consequences of the earthquake.  Even in Gyumri today, there are remnants of this earthquake as the city is still in the rebuilding process.

There are many things to do in Gyumri , and we suggest finding some small businesses to support while there as many of the owners were impacted by this disaster decades ago.

27. Miscellaneous Armenia Facts and Info

Getting around armenia.

Public transportation in Armenian is still in the development stages and new transport options are being implemented in the transport system.

Usually, there are minibusses (marshrutkas) connecting Armenian cities. These might not be the most comfortable option to get around so that’s why many travelers prefer to take taxis or to rent a car while traveling in Armenia.

Trains are also an option, but for now, the new trains will only take you from Yerevan to Gyumri . I believe there is one going to Masis, also.  It is one of the most comfortable and fast train rides in the country. The other option is to take the old, Soviet trains.

Yerevan-Gyumri price for the new train ride – 2500 AMD ($6)

Yerevan- Gyumri price for old train ride – 1500 ($3)

28. Currency of Armenia

The Armenian national currency is called the dram (AMD) and is represented by the following symbol: ֏

The currency fluctuates a bit but is currently around $1 = 500 AMD .  It is possible to change out your money nearly anywhere in Yerevan.

You will see more currency exchanges here than perhaps anywhere else you travel.  Even shoe stores sometimes have currency exchanges!  Grocery stores almost always will have them too.

29. North Armenia Does Not Look Like South Armenia

As we mentioned before, Armenia is a diverse country in a small territory where one tunnel ride can change a bold, rocky landscape into lush, green gorges and a mountain range.

Armenia is a country of contrast and is easy to travel in… if you have a car. The more north you drive, the more you will see green mountains, lakes located in hidden spots surrounded by nature, deep caves, and many more spectacular places.

Driving towards the south of the country from Yerevan, the nature and landscape change into an arid and beige wonderland, complete with a unique ecosystem that is completely different from that of the north of the country.

You can find green landscapes present throughout the entire country but its percentage varies depending on whether you’re in the north or the south.

30. Usage of Tuff in Architecture

A unique architectural material that defines Armenian architecture is the volcanic stone ‘tuff’. Tuff has been widely used in Armenia for centuries as construction material and it’s also used in art and in some other spheres.

The capital of Armenia, Yerevan, is known as a pink city because the main material that was used to build it was pink volcanic tuff stone and it illuminates the city in a hue of the same color during certain times of the day.

But tuff is not only pink, but it also has other colors as well. Black tuff was used to build the old city of Gyumri and the architecture in Gyumri stands out like no other in the country of Armenia!

31. Sidewalk Cafes in Yerevan Saturate the Streets

Yerevan has a great cafe culture , and it is one of the main attractions of the city. You can cafes everywhere, especially in the city center and it really gives the city a charming and cozy feeling.

Saryan Street , or ‘wine street’, is one of those places where little wine shops line up the sidewalk and both locals and travelers can enjoy the charming atmosphere of an evening in Yerevan.

Yerevan Cascade is a huge platform of stairs and one of the gems of the city. At the Cascades, you can also experience great cafe culture through different indoor and outdoor cafes and restaurants.

In general, Yerevan is a city of sidewalk cafes and the choice is huge!

32. Visa to Armenia

Do you need a visa for Armenia?   You might be surprised.

While the country is open to so many foreigners and for long durations of time (as an American, I have very lenient laws about being in Armenia), other nationalities are not quite as lucky.

For example, passport holders from Canada and India both need to apply for an Armenian visa (e-visas) in advance.  Rules are constantly changing, so be sure to check before your trip to see if you need a visa or not.

Click here to see the updated list at the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

33. Architecture in Armenia

In our opinion, one of the coolest things about visiting Armenia is seeing a dynamic range of architecture in the country.

As mentioned earlier in the post, pink tuff or black tuff was a commonly used building material in Armenia and the traces of that are evident, especially in Yerevan and Gyumri.

Another interesting thing about the architecture in Armenia is that you can see so many influences throughout history based on the buildings and ruins.

When people think about architecture in Armenia, monasteries typically come to mind.  Or, Soviet architecture.  We could go into excessive detail about Armenian architecture and will need to do so in another post in the near future.  But, do know that the architecture here is extremely fascinating and many prolific buildings represent different eras of history and styles.

Soviet Architecture in Armenia

Many foreigners flock to Armenia to see the country’s Soviet architecture.  A lot of Soviet pieces have held up well in Armenia due to the construction with durable and tough materials and the Armenian influence on many pieces of Soviet architecture is unique compared to anywhere else in the former-USSR.

Again, we will have an entire post on this in the near future but some of the most popular Soviet architecture in Armenia masterpieces are: the Cascades, Yerevan Central Railway Station , Zvartnots Airport Tower (original), Sevan Writers’ House, Moscow Cinema, Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory, Gyumri Shirak Airport, Jermuk cultural center, and much, much more.

34. Armenian Food and Drink

One of the greatest things about Armenia is its food and cuisine.  Food in Armenia is light and makes use of seasonal and local ingredients better than most cuisines these days.

You will find that Armenian food will feel a bit familiar and a bit foreign, all at the same time.  There are influences from Iran, Russia, Turkey, the Middle East, and Georgia in the cuisine, but many of these ‘familiarities’ are traced back so that the food either comes from these areas or Armenia actually influenced certain dishes in the aforementioned places.

Nevertheless, the Armenian food is insanely good in winter or in summer!

Vegetables and fruits in Armenia are juicy and flavorful.  You will find a heavy usage of meat but also a heavy usage of vegetables, making the country fairly ideal for vegetarians without any intent to do so.

Some very popular dishes to try in Armenia are as follows:

• spas (a yogurt-like soup with mint and other herbs)
• kufta (pounded meat dish with tons of flavor – two types in Armenia: ishli or Echmiadzin)
• ghapama (rice with dried fruits and lavash cooked inside of a pumpkin or gourd – eaten in winter)
• khash (a soup made from boiled cow or sheep parts – eaten in late autumn or winter in the mornings)
• plov with dried fruits (rice with dried fruits)
• dolma (grape leave stuffed with deliciousness such as rice, meat, and veggies)
• basooc dolma (vegetarian dolma)
• lyulya kebab (minced meat grilled with other flavors and spices)
• khorovats (Armenian BBQ)
• gata (a sweet pastry that is highly addictive due to its deliciousness)
• harissa (a porridge with pulled meat served with butter… this is not like North African harissa!)
• lahmajo (an eastern style pizza – often referred to as ‘Turkish pizza’ in western Europe)
• summer salad (a garden salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs)
• zhingyalov hats (a bread stuffed with many green herbs originating from Artsakh and Syunik region)
• basturma (dried and spiced meat)
• bakhlava (common across many places in this region)

Obviously, with all of these prepared items above come some other specific items like Armenian cheese , condiments, pickled veggies, and more.  Armenian food truly is the best and there is something to satisfy everyone.

Ingredients in Armenian Cuisine

While the above detailed specific dishes, we thought it would be necessary to list some common ingredients you’ll find in Armenia.

Yes, many are vegetables and you can easily find vegetarian food in Yerevan , but you do need to ask to double-check no meat or animal products were used when ordering if you’re vegan or vegetarian (a lot of food here is ‘accidentally’ vegan or vegetarian).

The ingredients listed are ones that you will see often across several dishes.

Here are some popular ingredients in Armenian cuisine:

• Cilantro (coriander)
• Pomegranate
• Salt (Armenians use a lot of salt!)
• Lavash (Armenian bread)

35. Armenian Coffee

Armenians love their coffee and you will likely be served it a couple of times a day if you’re hanging around a local.  Armenian coffee is similar to coffee you’ll find in other countries in the region and even into the Balkans (often referred to as Turkish coffee… but you will never refer to it that way here).

You can buy bags of freshly grounded coffee at all grocery stores and several shops in the city.  You will need a jazzve (way to cook the coffee on a stovetop) and a small cup to serve it into.

Are you into specialty coffee?  Don’t worry – Yerevan has third-wave coffee shops too!

The rest is history!

We hope that this guide will help you prepare a bit for your trip to Armenia , or at least give you an overview of things we think will be helpful before you visit Armenia.  If you have any additional questions, please leave a comment below or send us an email.  We are happy to help!

This guide was aimed at foreigners unfamiliar with Armenia, its food, culture, and history.  This is not a guide written for Armenians… so if we explain customs or food in a way that an Armenian may not like, we did it with the intent to help those traveling here.  Thanks in advance!

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11 thoughts on “ 35 Very Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Armenia ”

Very interesting and informative article. I am a quarter Armenian living in the U.S. I grew up with more exposure to the other side of my heritage and am now interested in learning more about my Armenian culture. You have inspired me to start digging deeper and, hopefully, plan an adventure someday.

Very informative. Hoping to visit Armenia in the near future. Thank you

is so loving i will love to visit Armenia to see all this by myself .

Honestly, it was the Duduk recording that led me to Google Armenia. The sound is very mystical, “bringing me to the mountain forest of Caucasus”. I wish to visit this interesting and historical country one day. By the way, I am from bali, Indonesia.

After reading this I want to go to Armenia…tomorrow! Actually I plan a road trip on my motorcycle from Greece to Armenia for this summer. I have one question, how things are with stray dogs in Armenia? I’ve read several negative stories about its population and attacks to people. How things are today? Thank you in advance

My new bus driver in montreal, canada, is armenian. He is a lovely man and you have shown me all about his country. Thank you for all your information.

🙂 You are Welcome!

Great work. Thanks.

We are visiting Armenia (Yerevan) next week. You article is very elaborate and informative as one should feel a complete tour to the country after reading. Appreciate your efforts Aram & Megan. Thank you.

Thank you! 🙂

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• 10 Places To Visit In Armenia: Build Amazing Memories In A Beautiful Destination

23 Mar 2023

If you are planning for a memorable trip and anxiously exploring some top-notch destinations, you have every reason to set your eyes on Armenia. As one of the oldest existing nations, Armenia was the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion and enjoys having a glorious 3,500 culture.

Boasting on a myriad of tourist destinations, Armenia is excelled-in as a paradise for visitors for letting them explore lots of things—be it beholding the breath-taking views of mountains, spectacular landscape, scenery or engaging with plenty of interesting activities.

Interesting Places To Visit In Armenia

Let’s explore some of the most interesting places to visit in Armenia that are rich in culture, history and as beautiful as any popular tourist destination.

1. Enjoy Incredible Architecture in Yerevan 2. Behold the Beauty of Lake Sevan 3. Visit the Classic Temple in Garni 4. Visit the Mystery Place Karahunj 5. Explore the Unexplored Shikahogh State Reserve 6. Engross Into the Natural Beauty of Jermuk 7. Discover Peaceful Moments in Dilijan National Park 8. Behold an Incredible Beauty of Mount Aragats 9. Behold the Beauty of Mamrot Qar Waterfall 10. Explore Tatev Monastery

1. Enjoy Incredible Architecture in Yerevan

Image Source

While talking about the hottest places to visit in Armenia, it’s good to start with none other than the capital city, Yerevan, that came into existence in 782 BC. Visiting the city of Yerevan rejuvenates visitors, whether they flock here for the first time or have visited several times. The city is famous for featuring world-famous architecture, which first-time visitors cannot afford to miss. Also known as ‘the city of the cafes,’ Yerevan is home to restaurants, cozy cafes, parks, etc.

Things to Do in Yerevan: Visit Republic Square, Yerevan Cascade, etc. Best Time to Visit Yerevan: June to August and December to February How to Reach Yerevan: By plane, rail, car, etc.

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2. Behold the Beauty of Lake Sevan

Another exciting destination to explore on the course of your Armenian trip, Sevan is blessed with the mind-blowing beauty invigorated by the Lake Sevan that titillates the minds of visitors. Anyone seeking to experience a real natural beauty should not miss a visit to Lake Sevan, located 66 km from Yerevan.

Spread over a total area of 1,900 m, Lake Sevan, popularly pronounced as the Pearl of the Armenian Nature, is the right spot for everyone. You can enjoy BBQ, cruising, getting an exciting glimpse of the mind-blowing scenery, and lots more.

Things to Do in Lake Sevan: Visit Sevanavank, Sevan Island, Hayravank Monastery, etc. Best Time to Visit Lake Sevan: Mid summer and winter seasons. How to Reach Lake Sevan: From Yerevan, take minibus, vans, metro, etc.

Suggested Read: 14 Honeymoon Destinations In Asia In December To Celebrate Your Love Story

3. Visit the Classic Temple in Garni

The majority of tourists enjoy making their way to the villages on the course of their journey. If you are one of those and looking for the best village to explore in Armenia, Garni is the right option for you to explore. Situated in the Kotayk Province in Armenia, Garni is a much-talked about tourist destination for featuring the classical temples and other popular attractions. They include ruined Khumarazham Church, Mashtots Hayrapet Church, The Havuts Tar Monastic Complex, and lots more.

Visit Garni Gorge; Geghard; Temples, etc. Best Time to Visit Garni: All months How to Reach Garni: By taxi, torbus, etc.

Suggested Read: Hong Kong Itinerary For 7 Days: Our One Of A Kind Experience In Asia’s World City!

4. Visit the Mystery Place Karahunj

Located at a distance of 200 km from the capital city of Armenia, Karahunj is the next village that you will come across while searching for the most visited places in this country. Visitors who flock this place can get puzzled with the mystery of the 200 stones, each having holes with a diameter of 5 cm. This is a mystery for many scientists in terms of its use, origin, etc.

Things to Do in Karahunj: Visit Khndzoresk Bridge; Medieval Goris Cave Dwellings, etc. Best Time to Visit Karahunj: All months How to Reach Karahunj: By taxi, bus, etc.

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5. Explore the Unexplored Shikahogh State Reserve

Shikahogh State Reserve is one of the hidden places in Armenia. Covered with lush green mountains, Shikahogh State Reserve is still unexplored as it’s covered with dense forests containing 1,100 species of plants. It is one such reason why it’s known to be an unexplored city. If you are a nature and animal lover, then Shikahogh State Reserve has lots to offer for you. The forest houses different animals such as wild goats, bears, leopards, etc.

Things to Do in Shikahogh State Reserve: Visit Mount Khustup; See animals, etc. Best Time to Visit Shikahogh State Reserve: All months

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6. Engross Into the Natural Beauty of Jermuk

The mild climate, healing mineral water, and marvelous natural beauty are something that contributes to making Jermuk as the most inspirational place for tourists to explore and popularize among them as a famous spa city in Armenia. While visiting this place, never forget tasting the healing mineral water, which you can do by visiting the Gallery of Water.

Visiting Jermuk will never complete without beholding the exquisite view of none other than Jermuk Waterfall, Armenia’s second-largest waterfall. The water falling from a height of 70 m gives you an exhilarating experience that engrossed into the melody of nature.

Things to Do in Jermuk: Visit waterfall; Mineral water gallery, etc Best Time to Visit Jermuk: All months How to Reach Jermuk: By buses, mini buses from Yerevan.

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7. Discover Peaceful Moments in Dilijan National Park

The Dilijan National Park, built in the year 2002, is another amusing place for the visitors by letting them explore lots of things such as natural monuments, medicinal mineral water springs, and lots more. Getting an exciting glimpse of Armenia’s culture is something that grabs the attention of a majority of visitors. Dilijan National Park is a one-stop destination to explore this. The park features a plethora of cultural locations like Goshavank Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery, Jukhtak Vank, etc.

Things to Do in Dilijan National Park: Visit Lake Parz, Matosavank, etc. Best Time to Visit Dilijan National Park: All months How to Reach Dilijan National Park: By taxi, van minibuses, etc.

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8. Behold an Incredible Beauty of Mount Aragats

Another most visited place in Armenia, Mount Aragats welcomes tourists from across the globe, especially those who are nature lovers and seeking to behold the flamboyant beauty of nature. Being the highest peak in Armenia, Mount Aragats lets you enjoy a lot of rock arts that include human alike paintings, animal paintings, etc.that date back to approximately 100 years.

Snow-covered peak magnifies the beauty of mount Aragats to offer unforgettable experience of those of adventure lovers who can enjoy climbing it in the month of July, August, and September. Those seeking to climb the mountain smoothly can pick the southernmost peak, while others who love challenges can opt for the northern peak.

Things to Do in Mount Aragats: Visit Alphabet Park, Arshakid Mausoleum, etc. Best Time to Visit Mount Aragats: All times How to Reach Mount Aragats: By bus, minibus, etc.

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9. Behold the Beauty of Mamrot Qar Waterfall

On your visit to Armenia, you can also spot some less discovered places, apart from top-notch tourist destinations. One such place you will come across is the popular Mamrot Qar Waterfall. Located in Nagorno-Karabakh in the eastern part of the country, it beholds the umbrella form of waterfall thus lets visitors get a completely rejuvenating experience. Mamrot Qar Waterfall is one of the most visited natural sights in Armenia. So, you should never miss to get a fascinating glimpse of such an incredible gift of nature to human beings.

Things to Do in Mamrot Qar Waterfall: See exotic waterfalls Best Time to Visit Mamrot Qar Waterfall: All months How to Reach Mamrot Qar Waterfall: By bus, minibuses, etc.

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10. Explore Tatev Monastery

Located approximately 253 km from Yerevan, Tatev is another exciting place to explore on the course of your Armenian trip. This place is easily accessible by the tourists – all you need to do is to hire a taxi from Yerevan and make your way into this place. Visiting Tatev Monastery lets you explore a stunning medieval structure built around 9th century AD.

Beautified with peasant surroundings and complemented with mountainous landscape, Tatev Monastery has every reason to lure visitors to let them enjoy the fantastic scenery. To access this place, you can take the cable cars, which is known to be the longest in the world.

Things to Do in Tatev Monastery: Visit monastic complex; dum of the church, etc Best Time to Visit Tatev Monastery: All months How to Reach Tatev Monastery: By bus, minibuses

Further Read: 3 Places To Visit Near Asian Civilisations Museum That Are Perfect For The Explorers!

These are some of the much-talked about places to visit in Armenia, though this country houses lot of other tourist destinations. It’s really difficult to choose, as all have equal craze among the tourists. To explore all such places, you need to plan your trip to Armenia accordingly in terms of how many days you wish to spend in Armenia. A long trip to this place will let you explore everything about Armenia.

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Armenia

While on the trip to Armenia, you may have some questions about these places in terms of attractions, safe travel, etc. We have mentioned here most frequently asked questions along with the answers to match some of your queries.

What is popular in Armenia?

Well, Armenia is popular for accommodating snow-capped Mount Ararat, which is popularized as the principal national symbol of the country. The country is also popular for the longest ropeway, ancient cuisine, mountain mineral water, and more.

Is Armenia a beautiful country to travel to?

Yes, Armenia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Visiting here lets you explore the breath-taking natural sights, taste a variety of cuisines, and engage with history.

Is Armenia expensive to travel?

No, Armenia is an affordable tourist destination as only limited numbers of tourists flock here. So, you can easily find the best hotels here at an affordable rate, which is approximately INR 718/- per night – even if you opt for a luxury hotel, you have to spend a maximum of up to INR 7175/-.

What is the best time to visit Armenia?

You can visit Armenia from late May to early June. During these months, the weather condition of this place is quite pleasant and makes tourists feel relieved.

How many days are sufficient to explore Yerevan?

3 days are sufficient to explore Yerevan and enjoy your journey there. So, you should plan your Armenia trip accordingly.

Do you need a visa to travel to Armenia?

Only the US citizens are allowed to travel to Armenia for a maximum of 180 days every year. If they need to stay here for more than 180 days, they need to apply for a residency permit.

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10 beautiful places to visit in Armenia

With a rich history, centuries-old landmarks, picturesque vistas and fantastic food scene, Armenia is an off-the-beaten path destination with plenty to offer those who make the trip into the heart of the Caucasus.

Thanks to its relatively small size, visitors can see most of the highlights in a week, and it’s also very budget-friendly which makes it a great pick for backpackers.

Sandwiched between Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Iran, Armenia’s location has resulted in generations of geopolitical struggles which can make border crossings tricky and certain areas off-limits due to ongoing conflicts. However, spend just a few minutes chatting with any Armenian and it quickly becomes apparent how proud they are of their culture and country, and how incredibly generous and hospitable they are.

From towering mountains to spectacular waterfalls to serene lakefront getaways, here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Armenia.

While the monastery of Khor Virap is a formidable and popular pilgrimage site to visit in its own right, many find themselves at this site to take in some absolutely breathtaking views of Mt. Ararat.

It has a place in the history books as the spot where the man who would eventually become Saint Gregory the Illuminator was held in a pit for 13 years, surviving thanks to the help of local Christian women who would secretly feed him. He eventually helped turn Armenia into the world’s first Christian nation.

Khor Virap is now a sacred holy site where visitors can peer down into the pit, visit the monastery and enjoy sweeping mountain views. Most organized tours combine a trip here with nearby Noravank and the Areni Winery:

Areni Winery was founded in 1994 as a family-owned winery, and has since grown into a far larger production with a wide range of wine, cognac and brandy in various flavours. The village of Areni is in the heart of Armenia’s prime winemaking region, and one of the oldest grape varieties is grown in this area.

Noravank translates to ‘new monastery’, and this stunning spot is one of the most beautiful places in Armenia thanks to the dramatic, red rock canyons surrounding it.

A scenic drive through the gorge brings visitors to the 13th century Noravank Monastery, which overlooks the picturesque valley and is perched high on the hillside.

Founded in the 1100s, it was once the residence of the Oberlian princes and some of Armenia’s most important medieval artists worked and were also buried here. Noravank is also known for the grand Surb Astvatsatsin Church, which makes this complex one of the top Armenia attractions.

Shimmering Lake Sevan is one of the largest freshwater, high-altitude lakes in the world and significant in providing the majority of Armenia’s fish and crayfish catches.

Nicknamed ‘The Jewel of Armenia’, it’s particularly popular in the summer months when visitors can explore the peninsula, go boating or jet skiing, and walk up the hill to the Sevanavank Monastery for panoramic views.

The gorgeous resort town of Dilijan is a short drive away, located in serene Dilijan National Park which is sometimes referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Armenia’ or the ‘Armenian Alps.’

Known for its mineral spas, dramatic mountains and tranquil forest landscapes, it’s a favourite weekend escape and one of the most picturesque places to see in Armenia  thanks to the hiking trails, pristine lakes and ancient monasteries.

Another destination popular among spa goers in particular is Jermuk , which is famous for its healing mineral waters and has a beautiful town centre.

Dozens of hot natural springs flow through town which are full of minerals like magnesium, sodium, iron and calcium, and can be enjoyed in one of the spas or by visiting the Mineral Water Gallery.

One of the best things to do in Jermuk is taking the five minute ride up the Jermuk Ropeway, a 1 kilometer-long chair lift that whisks riders up to an altitude of 2480 meters. The journey only takes about five minutes each way, and has panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the city at the top.

The town is also famous for the Jermuk Waterfall which is nicknamed ‘Mermaid’s Hair’ because of its unique shape, and a short pathway starts from the parking lot under the shadow of an impressive bridge then winds along the gorge to the falls. At 70 meters tall it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Armenia.

Shaki Waterfall

One of the top natural wonders to see when visiting Armenia is the Shaki waterfall.

The 18-metre high set of falls in the Vorotan Gorge flows down from the Shaki River, and is accessed by a short, mostly flat pathway. The sight of the powerful falls cascading down is spectacular, and there are all sorts of different viewpoints including standing right beside it and feeling the water spray down.

A visit to the Shaki Waterfall is usually combined with visits to the Tatev Monastery and Khndzoresk village.

Haghartsin Monastery

One of the most famous Armenia tourist attractions is the enchanting Haghartsin Monastery, located near Dilijan.

Built sometime between the 10 and 13th centuries, the complex is surrounded by thick, lush foliage and rolling hills, and has three churches along with a chapel, monk’s cells, a bell tower and an underground tunnel leading to the river.

If you time your visit right, you might even get to watch a wedding!

Tatev Monastery and Wings of Tatev Cable Car

The 9th century Tatev Monastery is one of the country’s most iconic sites, located on the edge of a deep gorge.

The main church was built in 895, and eventually beautiful frescoes were carved into the interior. There are a few viewpoints around the complex with great vantage points, and a fountain with fresh spring water that you can drink right out of.

The highlight of any visit is taking a ride on the Wings of Tatev, which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop double track cable car. The 5752 metre long tramway glides over a sweeping valley between Tatev and Halidzor village, and has a birds-eye view of the hairpin turns on the road leading up to Tatev.

Exploring this ancient cave village with dwellings that date back to at least the 13th century is one of the best things to do during an Armenia trip.

Khndzoresk is in Armenia’s Syunik province nearly 1600 metres above sea level, and accessed by 425 steps leading down to a long, suspended ropeway. The walk across has stunning photo-ops of the dramatic gorge below, and can prove to be a bit of a challenge for those with a fear of heights!

On the other side you’ll find rock formations, caves, walking trails and a church, as this abandoned village used to house more than 8,000 people in the 17th and 18th centuries and some residents remained until about the 1950s. A series of ropes and ladders connected the cave homes, and if you peer carefully into the rocky hillside you can see all the cutouts.

Last but definitely not least on the list of beautiful places to visit in Armenia is Yerevan , the country’s capital city.

Dusty rose facades, lively plazas, dazzling fountains and towering Mt Ararat looming in the distance makes Yerevan quite picturesque, and the city makes a great base for day trips around Armenia as most excursions depart from here.

Stroll through Republic Square to discover some of Yerevan’s most significant buildings, make it your mission to spot as many of the city’s fountains as possible, or simply shop, café hop and nosh on BBQ like the locals.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• The ultimate travel guide to visiting Armenia
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• The best things to do in Yerevan, Armenia

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Ten places in Armenia you should not miss

Armenia ( map ) is an ancient country situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea. This small country is known for its 3,500-year-old history, rich culture and amazing mountainous landscapes. Each year, an increasing number of people visit Armenia to explore this interesting land, immerse themselves in centuries-old customs and traditions, learn about its colourful history and admire the spectacular scenery. The locals are warm and hospitable and do their best to make visitors feel welcome in their beloved motherland. There are lots of things to do in Armenia for visitors so you can easily spend at least a week there. If you’re planning a visit, below are ten places in Armenia you should not miss and suggestions for thing to do.

Top places to visit in Armenia

1. The city centre of ancient Yerevan

The capital of Armenia, Yerevan, is a cozy city famous for its beautiful architecture. The city has a centuries-old history – according to the cuneiform inscription of Urartian King Argishti, it was built in 782 BC, which shows that Yerevan is older than Rome!

For those who are in Yerevan for the first time, we recommend visiting its centre known for its unique architecture masterpieces, cozy cafés, restaurants, and beautiful parks. The heart of the capital is formed by the Republic Square, designed by the famous Armenian architect Alexander Tamanyan in 1924. The square is framed by important buildings such as the History Museum of Armenia and the Government House.

If you cross the road from the square you will find the Northern Avenue . It is the most modern and high-end part of the capital with its fashionable boutiques and shops, office buildings and luxury hotels. The avenue leads to another must-visit attraction of Yerevan – the Opera and Ballet Theater . It occupies an important place in the cultural life of Armenians and offers an extensive repertoire with its national opera, ballet and excellent symphonic music.

You can also opt for a half-day guided tour of Yerevan to visit the most important attractions.

2. Echmiadzin

The city of Echmiadzin is located about 20 km from Yerevan (30-minutes by car). A tour of Armenia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Echmiadzin. Armenia is the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as a state religion (in 301 AD) and the Echmiadzin Cathedral was built to commemorate this. Built on the site of an ancient pagan temple, Echmiadzin is the religious centre of all Armenians. Perhaps the easiest way to visit Echmiadzin is to join a tour from Yerevan .

3. Tatev Monastery

It takes four hours (253 km) to get to the monastery of Tatev from Yerevan by car but it’s really worth the effort! A visit to Tatev is one of the most popular things to do in Armenia for visitors. The monastery is a majestic medieval (9th century AD) structure located on the edge of a deep gorge and surrounded by amazing mountainous landscapes. In order to get to the monastery, you can take the cable-car (listed in the Guinness Book of Records as being the longest in the world). You will glide over the deep gorge for about 20 minutes and enjoy the fantastic scenery. Join a day tour from Yerevan to Tatev or a two-day southern Armenia tour that includes the Tatev monastery.

4. Lake Sevan

Sevan (66 kms north-east of Yerevan) is one of the most popular towns in Armenia because of the stunning Lake Sevan. The lake is especially popular in the summer amongst both locals and tourists. At 1,900m, Lake Sevan is also considered to be one of the highest lakes in the world and sometimes it seems as if the azure waters are about to touch the sky. Its beauty has earned the lake the nickname ‘the pearl of Armenian nature’. While at the lake, you can have a BBQ, cruise on a yacht or catamaran or simply relax and take in the amazing scenery. Sevan is also known for its fish “ishxan” (Armenian trout), so once in Sevan don’t miss the opportunity to order delicious fish dishes at one of the local cafés or restaurants. Join a tour to Lake Sevan .

5. Selim Pass

On the way from Sevan to Yerevan, you can stop to enjoy the view of one of the most beautiful natural sights of Armenia: the Selim Pass. This pass was once the part of the famous Silk Road that linked Europe with the Far East. The ancient caravanserai (a resting place for merchants on the Silk Road) still stands till this day. The view of the verdant valley below is simply breathtaking.

Jermuk is one of the most popular spa towns in Armenia because of its healing mineral waters and mild climate. The town has more than 40 thermal springs! In Jermuk, you can visit the Gallery of Water for free tastings of the healing mineral waters. And don’t forget to visit the most popular attraction – Jermuk Waterfall, which is the second largest waterfall in Armenia. The water tumbles down from the height of about 70m. This day tour from Yerevan brings you to five spectacular sites including Jermuk Waterfall.

7. Karahunj

In the Syunik region located about 200km from Yerevan, you’ll find one of the oldest and most popular megalithic sites of Armenia called Karahunj or Zorats Karer (‘army of stones’). It is located on a plateau at an altitude of 1,770m and consists of more than 200 stones each of which has holes 5cm in diameter. This construction remains a mystery for scientists who have different versions concerning its origins and use – the most popular version states that the construction dates back to the 6th century BC and served as an observatory for star-watching.

8. The cave city of Khndzoresk

In the same region of Syunik, there is another attraction that’s popular among tourists: the old village of Khndzoresk. This is a unique settlement where time seems to stand still. The old part of the village is composed of huge caves where people lived until the 1950’s. A new bridge connects the two parts of the village and the views from the bridge are quite literally breathtaking.

9. The symphony of stones

In the Kotayk region of Armenia, there is a beautiful canyon called Garni that’s famous for its unique basalt columns. As a result of geological processes, the stunning natural symmetrical columns were formed and these days, they’re aptly called ‘the symphony of stones’. Indeed, if you look at the canyon from afar, many of the cliffs resemble a giant organ!

10. Mamrot Qar waterfall

In addition to these popular sights, there are lots of less-discovered ones that are really worth visiting. Among them are the enchanting waterfalls ‘Mamrot Qar’ or ‘Zontikner’ (umbrellas). This interesting natural site is situated in Nagorno-Karabakh – the region in the eastern part of Armenia. The deep-water source originates in the Jrduz canyon, forming ever-flowing waterfalls in the form of a huge umbrella, covered with moss. This impressive natural monument is a sight that shouldn’t be missed.

These are just some of the many fascinating places in Armenia for travellers to visit. You can opt to travel independently and explore the country on your own. Alternatively, you can choose one of many Armenia tours of varying lengths to see this magnificent country.

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13 Responses

wow! looking at at this place is a breathtaking. hoping to visit toward the end of 2021.

[…] to Keith Jenkins, from Velvet Escape, ten notable places to visit in Armenia […]

[…] Source: Velvetescape […]

Armenia is so stunning! I really like your photos! I visited briefly a while ago but I can’t wait to come back and see more. Especially the Tatev Monastery is high on my list, just gorgeous!

What a beautiful country is Armenia. It is in my bucket list for 2017 and i have emotional connection to this place. My boyfriend has relatives escaped during the war and they all are so wonderful people that i can not wait to taste the local spirit!

Thanks so much for your additional tips!

Best regards, Keith

[clicked too soon!] One final place, near Armavir, is the Metsamor Museum. Metsamor itself was a metal-working center thought to be from 3500 BC, but with an astrological platform now surprisingly dated to 5500 BC. The platform it self is at a weird angle, with lots of ancient carvings, 100 yards behind the Museum.

The Metsamor Museum, though is worth the trip to this old village area. Outside among the lilacs are rows of fertility phalluses, some seven feet high. Behind the Museum are rows on ancient Cyclopean Walls, 2500 BC ones interesting with newer 1500 BC ones, and rows of fossilized mud rows that used to be houses.

There are blocks stacked like cobblestones in cave-like underground structures, which are compressed animal bones (calcium) used to .purify metal when smelting by absorbing impurities; they were buried for a year underground to age enough to eliminate poisonous toxicity when fresh. On the 2nd floor of the museum, there are huge pots in rows on display, some glazed and some very primitive from 3000 BC, all recovered from the field in back or nearby.

But in the cordoned off basement vault, the protected treasures of carvings and Babylonian trade objects of gold and jewelry are kept in lit displays. As you go down the steps, there are skeletons still in the ground. This vault and its contents is not on usual display You make a donation of 10,000 dram/person (about $2.30) to have guide take you down and turn lights on! The museum is not supported by the state — they raise all funds for leaking roof repairs and $7 a week salaries from visitors — so be generous!

Selim Pass – Selim Caravanserai, 1370 AD, is just before topping out on the Selim Road. Well-preserved, and from the road above it, looking south, there is a great photo opportunity, with the caravanserai just below, the 22 switchbacks beyond, and a long series of peaks going off to the south.

Karahunj – If you wander around on this treeless site, there are also over a hundred neolithic tombs, and total of thirty stone circles. The usual dates I have seen are 3500 BC, 1700 BC for the newest tomb. There are more tombs on SE side of Sissian (county capital), also dated 2000-1500 BC. Researcher Paris Harouni published in early 2000’s a book claiming the stones were set up in 5500 BC, but his work is disputed,

Khndzoresk – I have been on this road four time from 2005 to 2013, and the cave village i see each time Is on the LEFT side of the road, going eastbound, the village of Tsegh, last town before the border with Artsakh (Nagorno Karabagh). I wish there were more details about where on that forty mile stretch of road that and on the RIGHT side Khndzoresk is located; much of that road falls away on the right side going east, but look forward to finding it. Among the most recommendable-but-hard-to-get-into places is in village of Areni, itself a neat place and center of wine growing. Above a restaurant on the Arpi River, exactly befor the turn to Noravank, is twelve foot high fence, blocking a cave, This is Areni Cave, with the oldest wine presses of human history, 500 years older than anything in Georgia.

I plan on visiting Armenia next year so now I’m doing my research. It’s such a shame very few people get to see this country, I myself wouldn’t have booked a trip if not for a friend that was born here and managed to convince me. I’m curious to see their traditional clothing, from what I’ve found online it’s breathtaking! Thanks for the tips, I added all these on my list, let’s just hope I manage to see as many places as possible.

Thanks Arpa! I’ve corrected that! 🙂

The fact about Yerevan says 782 AD it should be 782 BC. very interesting article.

Thank you Tashi! 🙂

Nice pics & Nice places.

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