Your Last BordersBEST PLACES TO VISIT IN ARMENIA
Armenia is a stunning landlocked country in the Caucasus. It’s surrounded by Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Iran so it can only be an amazing tourist destination. Yerevan is Armenia’s largest and capital city, and the perfect place to start your trip around the best places to visit in Armenia.
Armenia tourist spots include plenty of monasteries. That’s because Armenia was the world’s first country to officially adopt Christianity, and of course to build churches too. Moreover, as Armenia is located in the beautiful Armenian highlands, nature lovers will have the best time exploring its outdoors.
Armenia is also perfect for history lovers as there’s plenty of Armenia landmarks dating as far back as the 600 BC. Last but not least, there’s a few beautiful Armenian cities worth a visit. In this Armenia tourist guide you’ll find the best places to visit in Armenia and everything you’ll need to know to tailor your perfect Armenia itinerary. Get ready, cause you’ll most likely fall in love with Armenia.
Best cities to visit in Armenia
1. Yerevan
Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Just as Tyre, Byblos, and Batroun in Lebanon or Damascus in Syria. The city dates back from the 782 BC and is rich in history and culture. Therefore, there’s tons of great things to do in Yerevan. Check out my Instagram and Tiktok pages to see my experience solo traveling in Yerevan Armenia.
Among these, my favourite are the Cascade Complex, the Republic Square, and the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial. along with many markets, restaurants, churches, shopping centers, parks, and beautiful courtyards.
Spending a couple days in the city under the eternal shade of Mount Ararat is something every traveler will enjoy. Regardless of your interests, keep Yerevan high on your list of best places to visit in Armenia.
2. Gyumri
Gyumri is Armenia’s second city. Its location near the border with Georgia make it a perfect spot for those overlanding to/from there. In the 19th century Gyumri was bigger than Yerevan and during soviet times it became the country’s major industrial and textile centre.
Later, it was home to many refugees fleeing areas close to Turkey during the Genocide. However, an earthquake in 1988 destroyed most of the city and its population decreased drastically.
Nevertheless, Gyumri remains Armenia’s cultural hub and is home to many local artists and craftsmen. Gyumri’s highlights are its museums, churches, bazaars, soviet sculptures, Vartanants Square, the local statue of Mother Armenia, and Gyumri Brewery.
3. Goris
Goris is a historical town in a stunning valley by a river. It’s been inhabited since the ancient times and is one of Amernia’s most important cultural and historical centres. Yet, what makes Goris famous are its mountain caves that used to be people’s homes.
Goris places to visit include the town’s beautiful old stone houses, art gallery, archeological museum, and main church. The surrounding mountains are great hiking spots in Armenia and offer stunning views over the raw scenery. Tatev Monastery is nearby, so spending. night in Goris on the way could be a great plan.
4. Jermuk
Jermuk is a famous mountain spa-town in southern Armenia. Its dozens of natural hot springs were very popular during soviet times. And still attract many tourists in search of the benefits of fresh air and mineral waters. In fact, there’s a brand bottling mineral water in town.
Besides its charming town centre and artificial lake, Jermuk features the largest waterfall in the country. The waterfall has the nickname of Mermaids’ Hair due to its funny shape.
You’ll find plenty of fancy hotels and wellness centers here. And a ropeway reaching a viewpoint up to 2,480m above sea level. It offers awesome panoramic views over the city and its surrounding valley.
5. Etchmiadzin
Since 1995 the city’s official name is Vagharshapat. However, most still know it as Etchmiadzin. This is the Vatican City of the Armenian Apostolic Church. It serves as the country’s spiritual capital and holiest city, and is one of the biggest cradles of Christianity worldwide.
The local cathedral, one of the oldest in the world, was built by Saint Gregory the Illuminator himself. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to the most valuable relics of the Armenian church. These includeone of the spears that pierced Jesus and a bit of Noah’s Ark.
Besides the Cathedral, Etchmiadzin’s must-visit include the Churches of Saint Hripsimé, Saint Gayane, and Saint Shoghakat. All of them are UNESCO world heritage sites and interesting places to visit in Armenia for history and religion lovers.
6. Areni Wine Country
Areni is Armenia’s biggest wine area and the actual birthplace of the winery. Some of the country’s finest wines are originally from Areni. And every wine connoisseur would place this place very high among the interesting landmarks in Armenia.
Therefore, if you are looking at going wine tasting, visiting wineries, and buying local wines Areni is your place to visit. Grapes and vineyards have been part of the local scenery for over 6,000 years. And so have pomegranates, apricots, cherries and blackberries, which are also fruits from which wine is traditionally made in Armenia. I strongly recommend tasting these varieties as well, especially pomegranate wine, which I absolutely love. You can see me trying some on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.
When in the Areni, one of the coolest place to visit in Areni-1 Cave. This is a fascinating archeological site where to see ancient wine barrels and learn from Armenia’s wine heritage. Where possible, schedule your visit in October and attend the Areni Wine Fest, one of the biggest in the country
Best places to visit in Armenia for nature lovers
7. Lake Sevan
Lake Sevan is the largest lake in the Cacasus, and one of the biggest high-altitude lakes worldwide. Located over 2,000 meters above sea level, Sevan occupies 3% of Armenia’s territory. And provides the majority of the country’s fish catch. Twenty-eight different rivers fill its waters and only one, Hrazdan, flows out of Sevan.
Known as the jewel of Armenia, lake Sevan is a popular beach-like destination in this landlocked country. Sunbathing, swimming, and sailing on its waters are a must. As is eating some Sevan trout in one of the nearby restaurants. Thus, there’s lots of guided tours to lake Sevan from Yerevan.
The beautiful mountains surrounding the lake, great for hiking and cycling, are also home to impressive old monasteries such as Sevanavank and Hayravank. Likewise, medieval Noratus Cementery is one of the Armenia top attractions to visit in Lake Sevan. It’s the perfect place to spot lots of the famous Armenian Khachkars, memorial stones carved with the Armenian cross.
Sailing on Lake Sevan under the sunshine and with a view of the monasteries in the back is one of my favourite memories form my first trip to Armenia. You can see more of this highlight of my Armenia vacation on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.
8. Dilijan National Park
Dilijan National Park is the National Park to visit in Armenia. It’s located by beautiful Dilijan village, in the northeast of the country, barely 100 km from Yerevan. In an area packed with ancient monasteries such as Harghastin, Goshavank, ans Matosvavank.
Known as the Switzerland of Armenia, the National Park is indeed an endless forest home to several rivers, pristine lakes, waterfalls, and plenty of mountain trails. Therefore, Dilijan National Park is one of the best spots for hiking in Armenia. If you’d rather visit with a guide, check out these day trips to Dilijan.
Dilijan town is also worth a visit. It used to be a peaceful mountain retreat for soviet artists and many composers and writers had a holiday home here. Most of the with a beautiful facade and old-style balconies that will delight visitors. Many artisans have their shops here so it also makes the perfect place for souvenir shopping.
9. Debed Canyon
Debed River and its canyon are the natural border between Armenia and Georgia. The area is home to particularly beautiful villages and little towns with many historical sights, including churches and forts.
Among these, Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition, every village has its own vibe and unique identity. Thus, spending some time in Debeb Canyon is a must in Armenia tourism.
10. Mount Aragats
Mount Aragats is a four-peak dormant volcano in northern Armenia. And one of the most beautiful places to visit in Armenia. Its highest peak, standing at 4,090 meters above sea level, is actually Armenia’s highest mountain. Although the climb is quite challenging, it’s more accessible in the summertime when not covered in snow. So if you are into mountain climbing consider giving it a try.
This stunning natural wonder is also famous as being home to Kari Lake. This is one of the nicest mountain lakes in Armenia, standing at 3,185 meters above sea level. Many hike their way to the lake and enjoy its cold waters during the summer. At the start of the trail you’ll find great rock art as well, as centuries ago people living in the are used to decorate it with painting of animals and their hunters.
11. Azhdahak
Azhdahak is an Armenian volcano quite safe to visit, as it last erupted in 1900 BC. It will delight you with its lake crater formed from melting snow. The contrast among the red landscape, black rocks, and blue waters, make this lake one of the unmissable Armenia tourist places.
Located in the Geghama Mountains, Azhdahak is also the third highest mountain in Armenia. It stands at 3,597 meters above sea level and offers astonishing views over nearby Ararat, Aragats, and Lake Sevan. Thus, it’s one of the most beautiful natural spots in Armenia. If you feel fit enough, make sure to hike to the lake during your trip to Armenia. It’s a once in a lifetime experience.
12. Ski resorts of Tsaghkadzor and Ashotsk
Located an hour away from Yerevan, Tsaghkadzor is Armenia’s most famous ski resort and makes the perfect weekend getaway from the capital. It offers a great spa town, boutique hotels, and some of the most affordable ski passes in Europe. Lifts here are actually paid by the lift, so you’ll never feel the pressure to go down once more to make the most out of your money.
Ashotsk is famous for being the coldest place in Armenia in winter time. Which only makes it the perfect place for skiing as you’ll never be in lack of snow here. The ski center is very close to Gyumri and there’s plenty of available facilities in the area. Plus it’s super affordable. One can get a day pass, ski rental, accommodation and three meals for less than $30. Book that winter getaway and enjoy skiing away from the West. I bet going to Armenia during Winter never sounded that well.
Best monasteries to visit in Armenia
13. Geghard Monastery
Geghard Monastery is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 4th century. It stands in a stunning mountain valley not far from Yerevan. What makes this monastery famous is that it’s actually excavated within mountain rocks and cut along the shape of the surrounding cliffs. This provides the monastery with superb acoustics and it is usually to see choirs and musicians performing in the area.
The monastery area hosts a main church and several chapels. The church, built in 1215, is in the shape of a cross and its dome has a huge window hole in the middle which gives its interior plenty of sunlight. The surrounding chapels, which are the oldest standing bit, are gorgeous and showcast elaborate rock carvings.
The Upper Azat Valley home of the monastery is also part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it’s been a sacred place and popular pilgrimage route since well before the introduction of Christianity in Armenia. Thus, there’s many guided tours to Gerhard monastery.
At the entrance of the monastery you’ll find a tiny food market where locals sell bread, sweets, and nuts. Make sure to try them, as these are some of the tastiest I found in Armenia. You can see me trying them on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.
And on your way to the monastery from Yerevan make sure to stop by Charent’s Arch, a rock arch built on the side of the road offering awesome views over Yerevan and Mount Ararat. The arch honours the famous Armenian writer Yeghishe Charents, who loved this place and its views.
14. Noravank Monastery
Noravank is one of the best monasteries to visit in Armenia due to its breathtaking location and its stunning ancient architecture. The monastery was once the residence Orbelian princes and the seat of Syunik’s bishops, which made it a major religious and cultural center.
Noravank stands in the Amaghu Valley, 120 km from Yerevan, at the end of a narrow gorge surrounded by beautiful red cliff walls. The monastery complex, built in the 12th century, hosts several buildings including two churches, a chapel, and many khachkars.
The main highlight is its two-floor Surb Astvatsatsin church, which means Holy Mother of God church. Its beautiful facade, decorated by Armenian’s most important medieval artists, full of elaborate carvings, and its second floor accessible via a stone staircase are one of the best places to visit in Armenia.
When the Mongols conquered the country they destroyed as many churches and monasteries as they could, yet they spared Noravank. Local legends state it was because local engravings pictured God with almond-shaped eyes, which made him look Asiatic, and welcoming to invaders. However, the monastery was later partially destroyed in an earthquake in the 1840s. It was rebuilt shortly after so there’s no excuse to miss Noravank in your Armenia tour.
15. Tatev Monastery
Tatev monastery is one of the major Armenia tourist attractions not only for the beautify of its ancient churches but also by the way these are reached: via the Wings of Tatev cable car.
This cable car is operative since 2010 and holds the Guiness World Record as the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world. The ride from Halidzor village to Tatev Monastery takes 15 minutes and will take you along 7.752 meters into the mountains. The views over gorges, waterfalls and valleys below are stunning and well worth the title of Armenia must see on its own.
Tatev Monastery, from the 9th century, has since been a major spiritual, cultural, and educational centre. It was home to the biggest medieval University in the Southern Caucasus, and one of the few sitting a bishop. Make sure to explore the three churches of Saint Paul and Peter, Gregory the Illuminator, and the Holy Mother of God.
The library, bell tower, refectory ,and mausoleum are also open to the public. You can visit Tatev in a day trip from Yerevan. However, as it’s so near the Iranian border that would mean over 9 hours of driving. Therefore, do consider spending at least a night on the way where possible.
16. Khor Virap Monastery
What makes Khor Viral Monastery one of the best places to visit in Armenia are its views over nearby Mount Ararat. There’s no other place in Armenia where you can get a better view of this stunning mountain, located at the other side of the border with Turkey.
The monastery, built in 642 and dedicated to (yes, you guessed it well) Saint Gregory the Illuminator, is a popular pilgrimage site. That is because Saint Gregory himself was imprisoned in these grounds during the 3rd century. And it was after such captivity he convinced the local king to convert Armenia into Christianity.
17. Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries
The Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, by Debed Canyon and the Georgian border, are two medieval Armenian monasteries part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. Both date from the 10th century and were important spiritual, educational, and cultural centres.
Sanahin means “this one is older than that one”, which probably indicates this monastery was built before Haghpat. In this monastery complex you’ll find sixteen different buildings, including the St. Gregory and St. Harutyun chapels, a library, and a cemetery with local khachkars.
Haghpat was built on the ruins of an older pagan temple and its chapels are surrounded by medieval walls. There’s also a library, a bell tower, and numerous tombs with khachkars. Most visit both monasteries on the same day, and you should totally do so when you visit Armenia.
18. Haghartsin Monastery
Haghartsin Monastery, near Dilijan, is a three-church monastery complex built between the 10th and 13th centuries. It’s very famous spot for locals to get married, baptize their children, etc. This makes it the perfect monastery for people watching. And I so loved it as you can seen on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.
The surrounding national park and local cemetery, home to ancient stone-carved khachkars, make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Armenia. There’s also a chapel, a monk’s cell and tower bell to visit in the area. And a lovely mountain cafe to relax.
Best places to visit in Armenia for history lovers
19. Garni Temple and Gorge
Garni temple is the only pre-Christian temple still standing in Armenia. And since it was spared from destruction and is the only one of its kind in the entire ex-soviet Union, it’s one of the best places to visit in Armenia. As such, there’s lots of guided day trips to Garni temple.
This first century hellenic pagan temple dedicated to the sun god makes one of the easiest day trips from Yerevan and is usually visited along Geghard monastery. The reason for its survival is quite unclear, yet most think it’s because it was used as a royal summer house and no king wants to destroy their very own holiday home.
However, the Garni temple you can now visit is a reconstruction as the original was mostly destroyed in the 17th century by an earthquake. Its location over a stunning cliff in the lively town of Garni will make your visit even nicer.
Don’t forget to explore the button of the cliff as well, as right below Garni Temple lay several hexagonal basalt columns resulting from an ancient volcano eruption. These formations, hanging from the cliff rocks, are stunning and one of the nicest places to go in Armenia. These are called Symphony of Stones, and they really got my heart. You can see more of them on my Instagram and Tiktok pages.
20. Orbelian’s Caravanserai
The Silk Road, that legendary trade route unifying Europe and the far East every traveler dreams of exploring, had its way through Armenia. Just as it did through Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, among many other neighbouring countries.
It was a really long journey, meaning traders and their mounts needed places to spend the night and recover from long days of traveling. Those places are caravanserais and the nicest among them in Armenia is Orbelian’s Caravanserai.
Orbelian’s Caravanserai was built in 1332 on the Slim Pass, in the Armenian Caucasus at 2,410 meters above sea level. It’s made of stone and decorated with medieval patterns and ornaments. It’s THe country’s finest remain of the Silk Road and thus one of the best places to visit in Armenia. Other cool places where you can find caravanserais are Fes, Marrakech, and Damascus.
21. Amberd Fortress
Amberd Fortress, or “Fortress in the clouds”, is a 7th century fortress. It stands at 2,300 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest mountain. Located close to Yerevan, it was the country’s primary defense point and protected its nationals against invasions from Persians and Parthians.
There was also a citadel built in the 10th century were the army used to stand in defense of the local area. And a church from the 11th century to provide divine protection to human protectors. The views from the top of the fortress are stunning, making it one of the tourist spots in Armenia not to be missed.
22. Alphabet Monument
Armenia has its very own alphabet, which is a distinctive trait and national pride as it’s very unique different from any other alphabet in the world. Mesrop Mashtots, a local monk and linguist, created it from scratch on 405 AD. It has 39 letters and many sounds, and it is one of the hardest languages to learn for foreigners.
These 39 letters are all depicted in the Alphabet Monument. This was erected in 2005 to commemorate the 1600 anniversary of same. It’s located on the side of a road between Yerevan and Saghmosavan, and well worth the spot if you are in the area.
The Alphabet Monument includes a statue of Mesrop Mashtots himself and giant representations of every letter carved of stone and beautifully decorated in local motifs. Try to visit it with a local who can explain what every letter means, as otherwise you won’t even be able to find your initial.
23. Karahunj Observatory
Karahunj observatory has little to do with modern day telescopes and stars observation. It’s more of the Armenian Equivalent to Britain’s Stonehenge or the stones of Senegambia, as it’s also a circle of massive ancient stones mysteriously standing in the middle of a field.
Historians believe Karahunj is over 7500 years old, which makes it the oldest among tourist places in Armenia. It consists of 223 massive stones, of which 84 have a circular hole in their upper part. This could have been used to observe the sky. And hence the observatory.
Nowadays, on windy days, the air flowing through these holes produces a mesmerizing sound that has given Karahunj the nickname of speaking stones.
There’s also 40 massive stones forming an almost perfect circle. This could have been a pagan temple dedicated to Ari, the Armenian god of the sun. You can learn much more about it visiting the small museum on site. Definitely a must among things to do in Armenia.
Recap on the best places to visit in Armenia
Armenia is a landlocked country of stunning mountains, ancient monasteries, delicious food, and friendly people. There’s endless beautiful places to visit in Armenia, from cities to mountain villages, lakes, churches, and ancient historical sites. Moreover, most of these are easily accessible from Yerevan and can be visited on a day trip from the country’s capital.
Please leave a comment below with any question on the best places to visit in Armenia or things to do in Yerevan. Or reach our through my Instagram and/or Tiktok pages. Here you’ll find plenty of photos, videos, tips, and personal experiences from my trips.
