Zvartnots Temple with Mount Ararat on the background, Armenia

Things to do in  Armenia

Get to the church on time

Home to rugged mountain scenery, quirky Soviet architecture, and some of the world’s oldest monasteries, the compact and landlocked Republic of Armenia delivers a wealth of things to do. Officially the first country to adopt Christianity, Armenia boasts more than 4,000 churches—they range from the medieval-era ruins of Zvartnots to the UNESCO-listed Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Armenia’s answer to Vatican City. Beyond its cultural and spiritual heritage, there's forested Dilijan National Park near the Georgian border and serene Lake Sevan—both offer some of the most glorious landscapes in the Caucasus.

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Top 6 attractions in Armenia

#1

Yerevan Cascade

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Visitors to Yerevan will find unencumbered views of both the city’s center and Mount Ararat from the steps of this iconic structure, which was completed in 1980. The complex is home to multiple staircases, escalators, fountains and gardens that make it one of Yerevan’s most unique landmarks. It is also home to the Cafesjian Museum of Art and a gathering place for senior citizens, families and locals looking to unwind. Travelers can climb the stairs to check out sweeping landscapes, relax in one of the picturesque gardens, spend some time combing through the galleries of the impressive art museum or wander around the outdoor sculptures that decorate this destination.More
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#2

Republic Square

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Republic Square, located in the heart of Yerevan, is a popular meeting spot for first dates and an even more popular destination for couples that are tying the knot. The iconic seven fountains, located in the center of the square, is part of an age-old Armenian wedding tradition that includes circling the square three times for love and good luck. Travelers who happen upon this classic square on busy weekends will likely see well-dressed couples taking part in this right of passage.The park was designed by Alexander Tamayan and includes a sprawling mosaic rock “carpet”. Like other major cities, this square has become a gathering spot for locals and travelers who want to unwind outside as the sun sets or the day begins.More
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#3

Tsaghkadzor Ropeway

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Located on the slopes of Mt. Teghenis in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, this armchair ropeway leads you to a summit overlooking the rolling hills of northern Armenia. Standing at more than 2,800 meters (9,200 feet), on clear days the summit gives you a glimpse of Mt. Ararat, the snow-capped mountain that’s the symbol of Armenia.More
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#4

Matenadaran (Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts)

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This world-class museum is home to one of the largest—and most impressive—collections of ancient manuscripts on earth. They cover a wide-range of topics, including history, medicine, literature and philosophy.In addition to a museum, where travelers can learn about the history of the Armenian alphabet, examine parchments and copies of the first printed books, Matenadaran is home to one of the most important scientific research centers in the country.More
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#5

Armenian Genocide Museum (Tsitsernakaberd)

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This expansive complex, which was completed I 1967, was built to honor the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, this hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.Upon entering Tsisernakaberd, visitors are confronted with a massive stone engraved with the names of cities across Armenia and the number of people who were killed by the Turks in each one. It proves a somber reminder of the nation’s loss and ushers travelers into the three buildings the complex holds: the Sanctuary of Eternity, Memorial Wall and Memorial Column. Visitors say this museum and landmark is a stark but beautiful reminder of the nation’s history and worthy of checking out.More
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#6

Shaki Waterfall

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A misty oasis in the arid landscape of southern Armenia, this roaring cascade is a favorite among locals. Legend has it that women from a nearby town (including a woman named Shaki) would hide under the foamy surface of the falls to escape enemy invaders. Tucked away among the trees near the town of Sisian, Shaki Waterfall can be difficult to reach, but it’s often included on guided excursions.More
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Top activities in Armenia

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Private 7-8-hour Khor Virap, Garni temple & Geghard monastery trip from Yerevan

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Retro KGB Tour: A Volga 21 Adventure in Yerevan's Soviet Past with photography
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Private 7-8 hour Trip to Garni - Geghard - Lake Sevan - Sevanavank from Yerevan

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Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)

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Group Tour: Echmiadzin (Mother Cathedral & churches, Treasury), Zvartnots Temple

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Private Half-day Echmiadzin Cathedral, Hripsime & Zvartnots Temple from Yerevan

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3 day private tours in Armenia from Yerevan

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All about Armenia

When to visit

The best weather windows are fall and spring, when crisp, sunny days give you a decent chance of spotting the snow-capped peak of Mt. Ararat across the border in Turkey (head to the Yerevan Cascade or Khor Virap for the best views.) January brings the Christmas season—celebrated on January 6th—and a fleet of winter sports. July and August are prime times for venturing into the Geghama or Aragats mountains, though be warned that Yerevan sizzles in summer.

Getting around

For shorter distances, choose from a range of taxi and rideshare services. There’s also the metro, which only has a single line: It’s impossible to get lost. If venturing outside the city, for example to Roman-era Garni Temple or medieval Geghard Monastery, you can easily arrange a day trip or guided tour that includes hotel transfers. Adventure-seekers might prefer the shared minibusses linking towns and cities, still known by their Russian name: marshrutkas.

Traveler tips

To understand the devastating impact that the Armenian genocide still has on the country and its people, head to the Armenian Genocide Museum in Yerevan. Entry is free (donations are accepted) and it’s a well-researched primer on the violence that Armenians were subjected to during the last years of the Ottoman Empire. Armenians honor the victims of the killings each year on April 24th during Armenian Remembrance Day.

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People Also Ask

Are Armenians friendly to tourists?

Yes. Armenia prides itself on its hospitality, which means extending a warm welcome to foreign visitors. Armenians enjoy showing off their culture and delicious cuisine. Get chatting with enough locals during your trip and you may find yourself invited over for a home-cooked meal or even to a wedding.

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Is three days enough in Armenia?

If several days is all you have to spare in Armenia, then rest assured, you’ll be able to see most of Yerevan and perhaps tack on a day trip. But if you’re interested in venturing outside the capital and into further flung locales in the north or south of the country, then you’ll want to plan for at least five days, if not a full week.

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Is Armenia an inexpensive country?

That depends. While Armenia is not quite a backpackers’ destination, accommodation, restaurants, and transportation all tend to be cheaper than Western Europe or the United States. That said, since public transportation options are limited, car hires and taxis (while reasonably priced), can start adding up. Be sure to budget accordingly.

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What alcoholic drinks are served in Armenia?

Yerevan is home to the Ararat brandy company, which has been bottling up a distinctive local cognac since 1887. If wine is more your thing, then head to Ararat Valley in the central plains, the volcanic, gorge-filled province of Vayots Dzor, or the Aragatsotn vineyards near the Turkish border—all wine-growing regions with a long history.

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Can you travel from Georgia to Armenia overland?

Yes. Traveling between the two countries is usually quick and hassle-free. There’s a long-distance bus that will get you from Tbilisi to Yerevan in under eight hours. A slower but perhaps more atmospheric option is the Yerevan-Tbilisi International Train, which connects the two capitals in around ten to eleven hours. You can also travel by taxi or car transfer.

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What foods should I try in Armenia?

Armenian-style barbecue, known as khorovats, is a staple throughout the country. It’s usually made with pork, beef, or chicken, with trout barbecue available around Lake Sevan. Tolma (stuffed grape leaves) are another local delicacy. If you’re traveling around Christmas, try to snag a bite ghapama, a stuffed oven-roasted pumpkin and a vegetarian treat.

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