In the heart of the Caucasus, Armenia is a land steeped in history, abundant natural beauty, and cultural charm.
Imagine walking through a country where each corner gives an account of the ancient days of the Silk Road era to the creation of Christianity.
You probably didn't know that Armenia is home to more than 4,000 historical monuments, including Etchmiadzin Cathedral—the world's first Christian cathedral.
Besides its historical past, there are unmatched adventures in exploring dramatic cliffside monasteries and indulging in unique cuisine.
Top 11 Things to Do in Armenia
Get ready to discover the top things to do in Armenia where every moment promises awe and inspiration.
1. Explore Ancient Monasteries
Armenia is known as the "Land of Churches" due to its numerous old monasteries.
Tatev Monastery, which is located on the top of a cliff, is accessible by the world's longest reversible cable car.
Geghard Monastery- this UNESCO World Heritage is partly carved out of a rock. The spot combines architecture and beauty.
2. Leisure at Lake Sevan
Dubbed the "Jewel of Armenia," Lake Sevan is an amazing destination.
This freshwater lake, surrounded by mountains, is perfect for swimming, boating, or just taking it easy.
Don't miss the historic Sevanavank Monastery, with panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding beauty, perfect for a peaceful retreat or a nature walk.
3. Stroll Through Yerevan
Yerevan, Armenia's capital, is a combination of history and modern charm.
Take a walk through Republic Square, visit the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, and enjoy authentic Armenian coffee at local cafes.
For further understanding of the country's past, visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, which gives insight into Armenia's history and resilience.
These are some of the top things to do in Armenia that offer a rich cultural experience.
4. Savor Local Cuisine
Indulge in Armenian delicacies like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves).
Do not miss trying gata, traditional pastry, and vibrant local fruits and vegetables available in local markets.
All these cuisines reflect Armenia's rich history of culinary delights and the right mix of flavors, traditions, and locally sourced products.
5. Hike Through Dilijan National Park
Nicknamed the "Switzerland of Armenia," Dilijan National Park is a haven for nature lovers.
The scenic trails through dense forests and serene lakes make it so perfect for outdoor enthusiasts that they need to add this to their list of ‘Things to do in Armenia’.
But there is also an opportunity to visit the Haghartsin Monastery with its architecture amid green surroundings, giving a historical sense to one's hike through this picturesque landscape.
6. Find out About Armenia's Wine Heritage
Armenia is known to be one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world.
At the Areni Wine Region, tour the vineyards, sample some great wines, and visit the Areni-1 Cave where the oldest winery in the world was discovered.
Wines from the region have flavors galore, and thus the region should be on the wine enthusiast's travel list.
7. Garni Temple
The Garni Temple is a beautiful example of Greco-Roman architecture.
It is framed by dramatic basalt cliffs and deep gorges, making this 1st-century pagan temple a photographer's dream come true.
Combine your visit with the nearby Geghard Monastery, where you can explore more ancient Armenian religious structures, making for a memorable journey through history.
Visiting these landmarks is one of the must-do things to do in Armenia for history and architecture enthusiasts.
8. Enjoy the Views of Mount Ararat
Although Mount Ararat is located in Turkey, it is still a very culturally significant site for the Armenians.
The best view of this breathtaking mountain range can be seen from Khor Virap Monastery, which is a drive from Yerevan.
It is because of its closeness to the mountain that the monastery remains a symbol of the persistent spiritual bond of Armenia to this iconic mountain.
9. Shop at Vernissage Market
The Vernissage Market in Yerevan is the best place to get authentic souvenirs.
From handcrafted jewelry and traditional carpets to wood carvings, this market depicts the artistic craftsmanship of Armenia.
It is also an excellent place to buy unique Armenian textiles and arts to give a glimpse of the country's rich cultural heritage.
Visiting this market is one of the must-do things to do in Armenia for anyone looking to take home a piece of the culture.
10. Witness Noravank Monastery at Sunset
Set against the dramatic red cliffs, the Noravank Monastery is even more magical at sunset.
The golden hues of the rocks make for a breathtaking atmosphere that is unforgettable.
It's a perfect spot for photography where the light adds a mystical touch to the ancient stone structures and makes it a must-see for visitors.
11. Attend a Festival or Cultural Event
Armenia is very lively regarding the celebration of local music, arts, and traditions in their festivals.
Among its many annual festivals, summer sees the popular Vardavar Festival, which involves the splashing of water between participants in a fun form of celebration.
A holiday to Armenia when one of these vibrant events is on will only be a richer experience, rich in culture.
Attending such festivals is one of the top things to do in Armenia for anyone seeking a deeper cultural connection.
Useful Tips for Your Armenian Holiday
- Seasonal travel: Travel between May and October for pleasant weather or off-season (November-March) for snow, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
- Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD) is the local currency. However, one would need to carry a lot of cash because cards do not work often in rural areas.
- Transport: Public transport is right in cities. Take a local guide for getting around places in rural areas as well as hidden gems.
- Visa Services: Planning for traveling can be quite easy by seeking help from Visa2Fly through their online visa services to apply to Armenia.
Being an epitome of history, culture, and natural beauty, travel to this country is always a rich experience for any type of visitor.
Whether it's seeing ancient monasteries poised atop dramatic cliffs, being by the serene waters of Lake Sevan, or enjoying the bustling streets of Yerevan, the experiences of this country can cater to any individual's needs.
The magical essence, however, lies in the gastronomical and wine-making traditions and historical landscapes.
Traveling to Armenia is not just visiting a destination; it's immersing yourself in a timeless journey through history and culture.
To make your adventure even more memorable, plan your trip with Visa2Fly.
From quick and hassle-free visa services to expert travel assistance, we ensure that your holiday is stress-free from start to finish.
Explore the best things to do in Armenia with our expert guidance and make your trip unforgettable.
Wonders of Armenia are just a click away! So, why wait? Let's start your Armenian adventure today and make your travel dreams come true with Visa2Fly.