Armenia

Armenia: general info for travelers

Armenia is a mountainous country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. It is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran to the south. The country has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with ancient monasteries, churches and archaeological sites. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Mount Ararat, which is considered a national symbol. Yerevan, the capital city, has a mixture of modern and Soviet-era architecture, as well as lively markets, colorful festivals, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Armenia include the famous Tatev Monastery, Lake Sevan, the Garni Temple, and the Haghartsin Monastery. Armenia is also famous for its cuisine, which includes dishes such as dolma, khorovats, and lavash, as well as world-renowned brandy.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Armenia, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Armenia: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Armenia: 1. Yerevan - the capital city of Armenia and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is famous for its pink tuff stone buildings, Soviet-era architecture, and lively atmosphere.
2. Geghard Monastery - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its rock-cut architecture and unique acoustics. The monastery was founded in the 4th century and is carved out of solid rock.
3. Garni Temple - a Hellenistic temple located in the village of Garni. It is the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia and dates back to the 1st century AD.
4. Lake Sevan - the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery and is a popular spot for fishing and water sports.
5. Tatev Monastery - located in the southern part of Armenia, Tatev Monastery is a medieval Armenian monastery that was founded in the 9th century. It is situated on a high plateau and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Dilijan National Park - a beautiful nature reserve that is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as numerous hiking trails and scenic spots. 7. Khor Virap Monastery - an ancient monastery that is located at the foot of Mount Ararat and is known for its stunning views of the mountain. It is also significant for being the place where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years. These are just some of the top places to visit in Armenia - there are many other unique and interesting destinations to explore in this beautiful country!
There is more to see and do in Armenia: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Armenia: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Armenia, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Armenia has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Here's what you can expect: - Spring (March to May): The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It can be rainy in March, but April and May are usually dry and sunny.
- Summer (June to August): The weather is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C in July and August. It's the busiest tourist season in Armenia, with many outdoor events and festivals.
- Fall (September to November): The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It can get a bit chilly at night, so bring warm layers. The fall is a great time to visit Armenia to see the colorful foliage.
- Winter (December to February): The weather is cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, if you're a winter sports enthusiast, it's an excellent time to visit Armenia's ski resorts.
Overall, the best time to visit Armenia depends on your interests. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, summer is the best time to visit. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall are great options. And if you're a fan of winter sports, winter is the time for you to go.

Armenia: activities and what to do

Armenia offers a variety of activities and sports for tourists to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular options: 1. Hiking: With its breathtaking mountain ranges and rolling hills, hiking is a popular activity in Armenia. Some popular hiking trails include the Dilijan National Park, Mount Aragats, and the Khustup Mountain.
2. Skiing: In winter, skiing is a popular activity in Armenia with ski resorts like Tsakhkadzor, Jermuk, and Ashotsk.
3. Rock climbing: Armenia is a great destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. Some popular climbing destinations include Mount Aragats, Noravank Canyon, and the Red Rocks Canyon.
4. Cycling: There are many scenic cycling routes in Armenia, especially around the regions of Lake Sevan and Dilijan.
5. Water sports: Lake Sevan offers plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
6. Cultural tours: Armenia has a rich cultural heritage, and guided tours to historical sites and museums are popular among tourists.
7. Wine tasting: Armenia's wine culture dates back thousands of years, and there are many wineries throughout the country that welcome visitors for tastings and tours. These are just a few of the many activities and sports that are available in Armenia.

Armenia: few words on history and culture

Armenia is a country with a rich and ancient history, dating back to the 4th century BC. It is located in the South Caucasus region and was the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion, in 301 AD. This has played a significant role in shaping Armenian culture and traditions.
Armenia has a unique culture that blends Eastern and Western influences. It is known for its rich music, dance, literature, and art. Traditional Armenian music features the duduk, an ancient woodwind instrument that is often used to set the mood for classical and folk music.
The Armenian language and alphabet are also distinct and have a historical significance in the development of written language. Many important texts were written in Armenian, including the Bible.
The country is also famous for its historic landmarks, including the monastery of Geghard, the Temple of Garni, and the majestic Mount Ararat. Armenia has suffered from various invasions throughout history, including Persian, Mongol, and Ottoman rule. However, the resilience of the Armenian people is evident in their ability to preserve their culture and traditions despite external pressures.

Armenia: how to move around on holiday

There are several ways to reach and travel within Armenia, depending on your preferences and budget: 1. By air: Zvartnots International Airport is the main gateway to Armenia, located 12 km away from Yerevan city center. Several airlines operate flights to Armenia from different parts of the world.
2. By train: Armenian railways offer connections to neighboring countries like Georgia and Iran, as well as local destinations. The trains are comfortable, but the network is limited.
3. By bus: There are regular bus services connecting Armenia with Georgia, Iran, Turkey, and other neighboring countries. The buses are comfortable, and the fares are reasonable.
4. By car: Driving in Armenia can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain and lack of signage. However, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore the country at your own pace.
5. By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Armenia, and they are relatively inexpensive compared to the prices in Western Europe and North America.
Once you reach Armenia, you can travel around by public transport, taxi, rental car, or on foot. The public transport system is extensive, with buses, minibusses, and trolleybuses operating across the city and the country. Taxis are also abundant, and they run on metered fares or negotiated rates. If you prefer to explore Armenia at your own pace, renting a car or hiring a driver can be a good option. To hire a car to visit Armenia, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Armenia: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Armenia with a full stomach:D
Armenian cuisine is known for its flavor-packed dishes that reflect the rich history and culture of the country. Here are some of the main typical foods of Armenia with descriptions: 1. Khorovats: This is the Armenian version of barbecue, where meats such as lamb, pork or beef are marinated in spices and grilled to perfection. The dish is typically served with flatbread and a side of grilled vegetables.
2. Dolma: This is a dish made of grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and herbs. The stuffed grape leaves are then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce.
3. Lavash: This is a soft, thin, unleavened flatbread that is a staple of Armenian cuisine. It is typically eaten with a variety of dips and spreads such as hummus, baba ghanoush, or cheese.
4. Ghapama: This is a festive dish that is typically served during celebrations such as weddings or New Year's Eve. A pumpkin is stuffed with boiled rice, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and then baked in the oven until tender.
5. Harissa: This is a porridge-like dish made of wheat and meat that is slow-cooked for several hours until it becomes a smooth and creamy texture. It is typically served with a side of pickles and flatbread.
6. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough, honey, and chopped nuts, usually walnuts or pistachios. It is typically served as a dessert after a meal or with a cup of Armenian coffee.

Armenia: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to some other popular European destinations, Armenia is generally considered an affordable country for tourists. The cost of traveling in Armenia will depend on your travel style and budget, but generally speaking, accommodation, transportation, food, and sightseeing are reasonably priced. For example, you can find budget-friendly guesthouses, dine in local restaurants, and explore historic sites and natural attractions at a reasonable cost. However, it's always a good idea to research prices and plan a budget in advance to make the most of your trip.

Armenia: where to find accodation

There are several popular online platforms that offer a wide range of accommodation options in Armenia such as Booking.com, Airbnb, Hostelworld, etc. You can narrow down your search according to your budget, preference of the type of accommodation, location etc. You can also consider contacting local travel agencies or hotels directly to inquire about accommodation options and special deals.
You can check hotel prices in Armenia here:
Booking.com

Armenia: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the official statistics, in 2019, Armenia received around 1.9 million tourists. The peak travel season in Armenia usually starts in June and lasts until August, during which there might be some crowded periods, especially in popular tourist destinations such as Yerevan, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan. However, overall, Armenia is not an overcrowded destination, and you can usually find some less crowded places to visit if you plan your itinerary well.
Armenia is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate in Armenia is relatively low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any country, visitors should exercise normal precautions to ensure their safety. It's generally safe to walk around in the daytime and evening in cities like Yerevan, Gyumri, and Dilijan. However, as with any large city, it's best to avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night, especially if you are alone.
There are no specific areas that tourists should avoid, but it’s always a good idea to check with locals or your accommodation provider for any areas or neighborhoods that may not be safe for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Armenia on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Armenia: events for tourists

There are numerous interesting events and festivals in Armenia throughout the year that tourists can enjoy. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Armenian Wine Festival: Celebrated in October, this festival showcases the best wines of Armenia.
2. Yerevan International Film Festival: This event aims to discover and celebrate talented filmmakers from around the world, and is typically held in July.
3. Golden Apricot Film Festival: This annual film festival takes place in Yerevan and showcases the best films from around the world.
4. Vardavar: Celebrated on the 14th Sunday after Easter, Vardavar is a water festival where people pour water on each other to symbolize the purification of the soul.
5. Areni Wine Festival: This festival is held in the village of Areni and showcases the local grape varieties and wine-making traditions.
6. Ughtasar Petroglyphs Festival: This festival celebrates the ancient petroglyphs and stone carvings in the Ughtasar mountains.
7. Armenian Food Festival: This event celebrates Armenian cuisine and is held in various cities throughout Armenia.
These are just a few examples of the many events and festivals that take place in Armenia. Each festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Armenian culture and traditions.

Armenia: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Armenia, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Of course! Here's a recommended two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Armenia: Day 1-2: Yerevan Explore the capital city of Yerevan including Republic Square (the heart of the city), the Cascade complex (a massive outdoor staircase with fountains, sculptures, and galleries), the Matenadaran (a museum dedicated to Armenian manuscripts), and the Armenian Genocide Memorial.
Day 3-4: Lake Sevan Take a day trip to Lake Sevan, the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world. Visit the Sevanavank Monastery and enjoy water activities such as swimming or fishing.
Day 5-6: Dilijan Visit Dilijan, a picturesque town known as the "Switzerland of Armenia". Explore the Dilijan National Park and visit the Haghartsin Monastery.
Day 7: Gyumri Travel to Gyumri, the second-largest city in Armenia. Visit the Black Fortress and explore the city's architecture.
Day 8-9: Tatev Visit Tatev Monastery, a 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site located in a remote and stunning gorge. Ride the Wings of Tatev cable car, one of the longest cable car rides in the world, to get there.
Day 10-11: Garni and Geghard Visit the Garni Temple, a 1st-century Greco-Roman temple, and the nearby Geghard Monastery, a 4th-century monastery carved out of a mountain.
Day 12: Khor Virap Travel to Khor Virap, a monastery complex located near the border with Turkey. Enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Ararat, a dormant volcano and the national symbol of Armenia.
Day 13-14: Jermuk Visit the resort town of Jermuk, known for its healing mineral waters. Visit the Jermuk Waterfall and take a dip in the hot springs.
Hope this helps!

Armenia: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Armenia described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Agarak is a town located in the southeastern part of Armenia, near the border with Iran. It is the administrative center of the Syunik Province and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agarak
- Aghstev is a region located in the northern part of Armenia, known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Its administrative center is the town of Akhtala, which is famous for its medieval... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aghstev
- Aghveran is a small resort town located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, about 47 kilometers north of the capital city of Yerevan. It is situated in a beautiful valley at an altitude of around 1,500... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aghveran
- Akhtala is a small town located in the Lori region of Armenia. It is mostly known for its medieval monastery complex, which was founded in the 10th century and is considered to be one of the best-pres... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akhtala
- Alaverdi is a town in the northern region of Lori in Armenia. It is situated on the banks of the Debed River and surrounded by the lush green forests of the Lori Plateau. Alaverdi is well known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alaverdi
- Aparan is a town located in the Aragatsotn province of Armenia. It is situated about 45 km northwest of the capital city of Yerevan and has a population of approximately 13,000 people. The town is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aparan
- Artashat is a city in the Ararat Province of Armenia, located about 30 kilometers southeast of the capital city Yerevan. The city is known for its rich history dating back to the 2nd century BC, when ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Artashat
- Berd is a town located in the Tavush Province of Armenia, near the border with Azerbaijan. It is situated in the northeastern part of Armenia and is known for its natural beauty and historical signifi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Berd
- Byurakan is a village located in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia. It is situated at an altitude of 1,760 meters above sea level, and it is known for its astronomical observatory, which was founded ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Byurakan
- Chambarak is a town in the province of Gegharkunik, Armenia. It is located at an altitude of 1,802 meters above sea level and is situated near the eastern shores of Lake Sevan. Chambarak has a populat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chambarak
- Dilijan is a resort town located in the Tavush Province of Armenia. It is situated in the Dilijan National Park, surrounded by forested mountains and fresh air. Dilijan is known for its picturesque la... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dilijan
- Dilijan National Park is a protected area located in the Tavush Province of Armenia. It was established in 2002 to preserve the unique forest ecosystems of the region and promote sustainable tourism. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dilijan National Park
- Dzoraget is a village situated in the Lori region of Armenia. It is located on the banks of the river Debed and surrounded by picturesque mountains, making it a great spot for outdoor activities such ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dzoraget
- Garni is a small village located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia. It is famous for its temple, which is the only pagan temple that survived the Christianization of Armenia. The temple is believed to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Garni
- Gavar is a town in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, situated on the shores of Lake Sevan. It's the administrative center of the Gavar Municipality and has a population of approximately 20,000 peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gavar
- Goris is a scenic town located in the Syunik Province of Armenia, known for its stunning natural beauty, unique architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It lies in a valley surrounded by mountains, m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goris
- Gyumri is the second-largest city in Armenia, located in the northwestern region of the country. It has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many notable churches, museums, and monuments. The ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyumri
- Hrazdan is a city in Armenia located in the Kotayk Province. It is situated on the Hrazdan River, at an altitude of 1650 meters above sea level. The city is known for its beautiful scenery, including ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hrazdan
- Ijevan is a city in the Tavush province of Armenia, located in the northeastern part of the country. It is situated on the banks of the Aghstev River, surrounded by lush forests and picturesque landsc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ijevan
- Jermuk is a spa town located in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia. It is located approximately 173 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Yerevan, and is nestled in the mountains at an altitude... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jermuk
- Kapan is a city located in the Syunik Province of Armenia. It is situated in the southern part of the country and is surrounded by mountains that offer spectacular views to travelers. Kapan is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kapan
- Khor Virap is a popular tourist destination located in the Ararat Plain in Armenia. This ancient monastery dates back to the 7th century and is famous for its stunning views of Mount Ararat, the legen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khor Virap
- Martuni is a town in the Gegharkunik province of Armenia, located on the southern shore of Lake Sevan. It is situated at an altitude of 1,900 meters above sea level and has a population of approximate... CONTINUE here for a trip to Martuni
- Meghri is a town located in the southernmost part of Armenia, near the border with Iran. It is situated at an altitude of around 550 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 4,500 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Meghri
- Metsamor is a small town located in the Ararat Province of Armenia. It is known for its ancient archaeological site, the Metsamor Castle, which dates back to the Bronze Age. The castle served as a cen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Metsamor
- Noratus is a village in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Sevan. It is known for its ancient Armenian cemetery, which has the largest collection of Khachkars (... CONTINUE here for a trip to Noratus
- Sevan is a town in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia, located on the northwestern shores of Lake Sevan. The lake is the largest body of freshwater in the Caucasus region and one of the largest high-... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sevan
- Sisian is a town in the Syunik Province of Armenia, located approximately 220 km southeast of the capital city of Yerevan. It is situated on the eastern slope of Mount Zangezur, at an altitude of 1,83... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sisian
- Sovetashen is a district in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. It is located on the eastern edge of the city, near the border with the Kotayk Province. Sovetashen is known for its large market, where vi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sovetashen
- Spitak is a town located in the northern part of Armenia, in the province of Lori. It is situated at an altitude of around 1500 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 12,000 peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Spitak
- Stepanakert is the capital city of the unrecognized Republic of Artsakh, which is located in the South Caucasus region, between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Formerly known as Khankendi, the city has a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stepanakert
- Stepanavan is a city located in the northwestern part of Armenia, in the Lori Province. It has a population of around 13,000 people and is situated at an altitude of 1350 meters above sea level. Stepa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stepanavan
- Talin is a town located in the Aragatsotn Province of Armenia, approximately 35 kilometers north-west of the capital, Yerevan. It is situated at an altitude of 1,540 meters above sea level, near the s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Talin
- Tsakhkadzor is a popular mountain resort town located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, about 50 km north of the capital city of Yerevan. It is situated on the southeastern slope of Mount Teghenis, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tsakhkadzor
- Vagharshapat is a city located in the Armavir Province of Armenia. It is considered one of the oldest cities in the country, with a long history dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. One of its main a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vagharshapat
- Vanadzor is the third-largest city in Armenia, located in the Lori Province in the northern part of the country. It has a population of around 86,000 people and is known for its beautiful parks, cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vanadzor
- Vardenik is a small village located in the Gegharkunik Province of Armenia. It is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Sevan and has a population of around 600 people. The village is primarily known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vardenik
- Vardenis is a town located in the eastern region of Gegharkunik in Armenia. It is situated on the shores of Lake Sevan, which is the largest lake in Armenia and one of the largest high-altitude lakes ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vardenis
- Vayk is a town in the Vayots Dzor region of Armenia, situated on the banks of the Arpa River. The town is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is known for its natural beauty and historic monuments... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vayk
- Vayots Dzor is a province located in the southeastern part of Armenia, known for its stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The region is home to several important landmarks, including the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vayots Dzor
- Vedi is a town located in the Ararat Province of Armenia. It is situated around 38 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Yerevan. The town is known for its wineries and vineyards, producing a vari... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vedi
- Voskehat is a village in the Ararat province of Armenia, located in the southeastern part of the country. The village is surrounded by picturesque mountains and valleys, and is known for its beautiful... CONTINUE here for a trip to Voskehat
- Yeghegnadzor is a town located in the Vayots Dzor region of Armenia. It is the administrative center of the region and covers an area of approximately 5.5 square miles. The town has a population of ar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yeghegnadzor
- Yeghvard is a town in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, located about 19 kilometers north-east of the capital city, Yerevan. It is situated between the peaks of Mount Ara and Mount Geghama, offering spe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yeghvard
- Yerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia, located in the central part of the country. It has a population of over one million people and is known for its rich history, culture, and architect... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yerevan


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