Armenia is Eastern Europe’s hidden jewel and a traveler’s delight. It is an underrated travel destination and lesser-known when compared to other European destinations like Italy, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and France. That is the reason why it’s unexplored by a majority of the travelers around the globe (which, in a way, is a good thing). You might not believe it but it’s true that Armenia, despite being a European country, is as pocket friendly as Bali. Why do I say that? Because everything in the country is dirt cheap. Basically, Armenia is to Europe what Bali is to Asia – pocket friendly and still one of the most beautiful destinations in their continent. In this blog, I’ll be discussing how you can experience the best of what this country has to offer through the Top 15 things to do in Armenia.
15 of the Best Things To Do In Armenia
Armenia offers you the perfect combo of history, culture, nature, adventure, food and wellness. Though there are a lot of things to do in the country, here’s my list of the top 15 mainstream and offbeat things you can do in Armenia.
1. Explore the Amberd Fortress
The Amberd fortress is a 10th-century fortress located on the slope of Mount Aragats. It is built on top of a hill, with a domed Vahramashen church in the background. Apparently, the kings used the Amberd Castle as their summer residence.
The castle ruins and the surrounding greenery make for a picturesque view. You can hike to the top of the fortress using the narrow pathway. Enjoy unobstructed stunning views of the Amberd Canyon from the top and end your experience with a visit to the Vahramashen church.
TIP – A good pair of sports shoes is required to hike to the top of the fortress. Avoid wearing sandals or slippers as the path can be slippery at some points. The hike is easy and can be done even by people having back/knee issues.
2. Visit The Geghard Monastery
Situated in the Kotayk province of Armenia, the Geghard monastery is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll see a small market lined along your walk to the monastery, with women selling bread, fruit lavash & different kinds of souvenirs. Be sure to bargain if you’re planning to buy anything from the market.
Geghard means “spear” in Armenian. Now you must be wondering why the monastery was named after a spear? Well that’s because this is the same spear that wounded Christ during his crucifixion.
The monastery complex contains the Katoghike chapel (main church), and several other rock-cut churches, tombs, caves, and carvings. Entry to most of the caves is arched. The significance of this site in Biblical history can be guessed from the number of crosses engraved on the walls of the cave church.
Do not miss the wooden bridge area in the monastery complex. It is a beautiful bridge built over a running water stream, with a random wishing tree standing on it’s side. Do go there and enjoy scenic views of the monastery.
TIP – Visit the place early to avoid crowds. If you’re thirsty and don’t want to buy bottled drinking water, then you can fill some holy water from the fountain tap located in the courtyard of the complex. It is safe for consumption. You can also book a day tour that takes you there, to Lake Sevan and to other places.
3. Tour The Temple of Garni
The Pagan Temple of Garni is situated in the Kotayk province (just like Geghard monastery mentioned above) of Armenia. The temple is dedicated to the sun god – Mihr and is the only standing non-Christian entity in Armenia. It is situated 27 km away from Yerevan in the Garni village.
It’s exclusivity as the only symbol of pre-Christian Armenia makes it one of the most popular attractions in Armenia. The temple overlooks the ravine of the Azat river and Gegham mountains. The natural scenery surrounding the temple will leave you spellbound.
An earthquake in 1679 had destroyed the Garni temple but a group of people led by Alexander Sahinian began the reconstruction work in 1969 and completed it by 1975.
Apricot and walnut trees can be seen throughout the Garni temple premises. Outside the temple, you’ll see hunters selling the skins of animals they’ve hunted. Since the site is a perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and cultural history, it is a must-do in your Armenia itinerary.
4. Spend time at Lake Sevan
A holiday is all about relaxation and spending time with nature. And when it comes to nature, look no further than Lake Sevan. The Lake Sevan is the largest water body in Armenia and one of the largest freshwater alpine lakes in Eurasia.
The paradisiacal sight of the mountains flirting with the clouds, while the calm blue waters of the lake play “touch and go” with the mountain base, is mesmerizing. Another place around the Sevan lake that you can explore is the Sevanavank monastery. It’s situated on the top of a mountain facing the lake.
Because time comes to a standstill at the Sevan lake, spending time here is one of the most relaxing things to do in Armenia. There’s also a small souvenir market near the lakefront where you can shop for some quality collectibles.
TIP – The wooden passage by the lakefront is a bit shaky so avoid wearing heels. You’ll find many dogs near the lakefront so if you’re a dog lover, then you’re in for a treat. This tour takes you to Lake Sevan and to visit the Sevanavank Monastery.
5. Enjoy a Great Meal At Terrazza
Terrazza is the best restaurant in Yerevan, Armenia when it comes to food and ambiance. The restaurant offers you a mix of a warm, friendly atmosphere, lovely live music, and delectable European/Mediterranean cuisine dishes.
The interiors of the restaurant are classy and easy on the eye. The place also has a cute outdoor seating arrangement. They serve some terrific seafood with crispy prawns and grilled salmon being the crowd favourites.
The salads served here are fresh with quality natural produce used from the farms. The chicken is well cooked, club sandwich and fries are tasty and the chocolate lava cake is an apt representation of death by chocolate.
Cocktails are refreshing and their wine bar serves you some of the best Armenian wine, giving you just the buzz you need to explore the city.
At Terrazza, you get a fine dining experience at an economical price.
TIP – Get the address of the Terrezza restaurant here. In case you’re struck by midnight hunger pangs, you can visit or order online from the Caucasus restaurant. It’s the only restaurant in Yerevan that operates 24×7.
6. Enjoy the Tsaghkadzor Ropeway Experience
If you have a thirst for adventure, then the Tsaghkadzor ropeway is exactly the activity that’ll quench that thirst. A 30-minute drive from Lake Sevan brings you to the Tsaghkadzor ski resort. Tsaghkadzor derives it’s name from the Armenian word that means “valley of flowers.”
The cable car ropeway here is one-of-a-kind. Generally, you see a cable car stopping for you to sit and make yourself comfortable. But here, you walk to a point and place your feet on the words that read “stand here” and then the cable car carries you from a standing position as you recoil and automatically sit on it.
You manually lock yourselves with a metal bar in front of you and then begins the ride of a lifetime. The views, with every level of elevation, change from mountains to valleys to panoramic views of the whole town and finally, Switzerland-like alpine grasslands. The ropeway carries you to the top of Mount Teghenis in around half an hour.
What makes the journey even more memorable are the local songs that play on the speakers installed at each elevation level. Some of them are in my playlist even today (just saying). It is one of the most adventurous and fun things to do in Armenia.
You can either take a private car from Lake Sevan or do a group tour that covers Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway-one station) and Lake Sevan (Sevanavank).
TIP – There’s a small cafe near the ticket counter where you can enjoy your preferred beverage ranging from a hot chocolate to a chilled Kotayk beer.
7. Explore The Tatev Monastery
Now, what if I told you that you’d be part of a Guinness world record legacy by choosing to visit this monastery! Exploring the Tatev monastery involves riding in the aerial tramway called the Wings of Tatev. You can take a full-day tour where you will visit 3 monasteries and winery with wine tasting. If you are planning to go on your own, you can book your tramway tickets here.
Wings of Tatev is a 5.7 km (3.5 miles) long cable-way connecting Halidzor & the Tatev monastery. The cable-way holds the Guinness world record for being the longest continuous double track cable car and also the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world.
The ride to the monastery is a thrilling journey as you enjoy wonderful views of the forest from the cable car. The actual monastery is situated near the Tatev village on a large
The sight of the monastery standing tall in all it’s glory with the backdrop of the green mountains half-hidden in the clouds looks like a picture postcard. The Tatev monastery is located on a large volcanic rock (basalt) plateau near the Tatev village.
The monastery was once a vital scholastic and spiritual center in Armenia. A small window inside each section of the monastery gives you access to the views of the deep gorge of the Vorotan river.
TIP – The monastery has a souvenir store where you can purchase beautiful miniature paintings that are cheap when compared to Yerevan’s souvenir stores. So make sure you buy a painting from here if you wish to take home a piece of Armenia with you.
8. Wine Tasting in Areni Village
Wine lovers rejoice! On your way from Yerevan to the Tatev monastery, you’ll pass a small Armenian village called Areni. And Areni village is home to the famous wine-maker & connoisseur Mher Enoqyan.
He is the proud owner of the wine house MHER. Not only does Mher offer a wine tasting but he also organizes local authentic breakfast for travelers.
So if you wish to taste some fine Armenian wine and dance with him (he’s one helluva dancer and charmer) or have an authentic meal at his place, then contact him here. You can also go on an organized group tour to Tatev Monastery, followed by Areni village.
TIP – Try the pomegranate and blackberry variants of red wine. They’re the tastiest. Dancing with him may or may not result in an extra discount (depends on your bargaining skill).
9. Tour The Genocide Museum
Get acquainted with Armenia’s history by visiting the Genocide Museum in Yerevan, Armenia. It is home to the bloody chapters of the violent history of Armenia.
The Ottoman Turks had killed 1.5 million Armenians in the genocide, making it one of the ugliest events in the history of eastern Europe. The Armenians were deported from Constantinople (present day Istanbul) to Ankara and then killed mercilessly.
A walking tour of the museum guides you through the events of the genocide and gives you a basic idea of why the Armenians aren’t exactly fond of the Turkish people.
You can walk upstairs and visit the famous genocide memorial complex that was built to honor the lives of the Armenians who were killed in the genocide. If you’re a history buff, then the Genocide museum is a must-do in your Armenia itinerary as it gives you an insight into one of the most important events in Armenian history.
Tip: You can also take a Yerevan city tour with Brandy Tasting.
10. Visit The Mother Armenia Statue
The Mother Armenia statue is a popular tourist attraction in the capital city of Yerevan. It is a symbol of achieving peace through strength and courage and an ode to the brave female warriors and figures in Armenian history.
Standing tall on an elevated basalt pedestal in the Victory Park, the statue overlooks the entire city of Yerevan. The height of the statue is 22 metres while the overall height of the monument (including the elevation) is 51 metres.
The monument is a tribute to Sose Mayrig & other courageous Armenian women like her, who took up arms to help their husbands fight the war against the Turkish troops & Kurds. In a way, it highlights the high status that Armenian women hold in society.
If you climb up the steps on the pedestal, you’ll enter a museum that celebrates the heroism and sacrifice of the legends who fought for Armenian independence.
11. Explore The Cafesjian Center For The Arts
Armenia has something for art lovers too. Located in Yerevan’s Kentron District, the Cafesjian Center for the arts is an art museum set inside a cascade called the Yerevan Cascade. On your way to the museum, you’ll first come across Cafesjian sculptures and contemporary works of art in the sculpture gardens.
You feel inspired by just being around the amazing displays of art. The line of gardens leads to the cascade which is an attractive structure containing a massive staircase with fountains & sculptures at every level.
You can get access to the exclusive art exhibitions at every level by buying tickets to the museum at the entrance. The Cafesjian Art Galleries include Gallery One, Khanjyan Gallery, Eagle Gallery, Sasuntsi Davit Garden Gallery, Star Landing, and an Events Auditorium.
The center offers many art exhibitions, derived and inspired by its founder Gerard L. Cafesjian’s collection of contemporary art. Take a virtual tour of the center by clicking here.
12. Pamper Your Senses At The Wine and Grape Spa
Now this is an activity that not many people know about. After all the hiking and exploring, you deserve some pampering. When you think of pampering yourself, you think of a spa massage right? Armenia adds an interesting twist to the spa by including an element that makes the country famous for it’s wines – the Armenian grapes.
The Wine and Grape Spa in Yerevan, Armenia offers you a 2.5-3 hour spa session that’ll soothe and de-stress every part of your body using Armenian wine and grapes. This is one of the most satisfying activities you’ll do in Armenia.
Imagine cold Armenian wine being poured over your body while you are sipping Ararat grape wine yourself. Can’t get any better, can it?
The Spa prides itself on the unique treatments it offers using the grapes from Ararat valley. It is believed that the therapeutic properties of the natural grapes heal your skin and make you youthful & strong. You can check out the spa treatment packages by clicking here.
TIP – If you’re a couple you can avail “couple discounts” on the spa packages they offer. If you’re single, then just find somebody and pose as a couple to get a discount. I strongly recommend you to choose the Goddess spa package (yes guys, you too!) as it includes the most number of treatments out of all packages.
13. Karahunj Observatory
This is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Armenia. Located near the town of Sisian in the Syunik Province of Armenia, Karahunj is commonly referred to as Armenia’s version of Britain’s Stonehenge. The name Karahunj is derived from two Armenian words meaning “speaking stones”.
Karahunj is an ancient archaeological site made up of more than 200 stone tombs. In this arrangement, the 40 stones forming a circle in the main area are apparently built in honour of the Armenian God “Ari”, meaning the Sun.
With the backdrop of beautiful green mountains, the site is a treat for landscape photographers. According to researchers, the site could be among the world’s oldest astronomical observatories, and at least 3,500 years older than British Stonehenge.
Karahunj seems surreal and is a testament to Armenia’s rich history. It is a 4-hour drive from Yerevan city centre, so spare a day if you wish to visit this place.
TIP – The place is open and can get extremely windy and chilly sometimes. So carry a jacket with you if you’re traveling during the winter season.
14. Khor Virap Monastery
Located in the Ararat region, near the border of Turkey, is one of Armenia’s most revered pilgrimage sights – the Khor Virap Monastery. The words Khor Virap in Armenian translate to “deep dungeon”. The place occupies an important position in Armenia’s history.
Many of you may not know that Armenia was the first nation to adopt Christianity as it’s official religion. And the man responsible for this conversion of Armenia from Paganism to Christianity was Gregory the Illuminator. What makes the Khor Virap Monastery significant is that Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 14 years.
As the monastery is situated on a hill, you’ll have to climb a few steps to reach the site. With Mount Ararat in the vicinity, the views from the monastery are spectacular.
The feeling of serenity that you experience at the top is just priceless. The monastery is 42 km away from Yerevan and it takes an hour’s drive to get there.
Suggested private tour: Take the chance to visit Khor Virap Monastery, then visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the churches of St. Gayane and St. Hripsime, and see ruins of the 7th-century temple of Zvartnots. Check it out here!
15. Dilijan National Park
Dilijan National Park, located in the Tavush province, is one of the four major National Parks in Armenia. The National Park situated near Haghartsin Monastery is a home for many medicinal plants like mint, thyme, and ziziphora. The greenery is a sight to behold, with the fresh air rejuvenating your senses.
It is a hiker’s paradise as there are many hiking trails through the park. If you’re an experienced hiker and can read a map, then go ahead and hike on your own. Otherwise, a guide’s assistance is advised. The markers on the track are inaccurate at a few places, so take necessary information from the Tourist Information Centre before starting your journey.
A hiking trail from the Parz lake to a monastery is particularly beautiful as it crosses an alpine region that reminds you of Switzerland. Visit the place if you want to truly relax in the lap of nature. The Park is a 2-hour drive from Yerevan.
TIP – Wear basic walking shoes and avoid sandals or pricey joggers. Ask for assistance from the people at the Tourist Information Centre and don’t just go out on your own.
There you have it! I hope you have enjoyed this list of the top things to do in Armenia. Armenia has so much to offer. It is still a hidden gem and I hope you come to love Armenia as much as I do.
This is a guest post by Vaibhav Mehta from the blog The Wandering Vegetable
Vaibhav Mehta is an actor, travel-blogger, and personal growth writer from India. He is a traveler who inspires people to explore the world in an offbeat, fun, and adventurous way. He’s constantly juggling life between “lights, camera, action” and “let’s go somewhere”. Exploring every country on the planet and hosting his own travel show are the travel goals that he’s set his eyes on. You can find more of his inspiring travels on his blog. You can also follow his adventures on Pinterest and Instagram.
