Armenia, the first Christian country in the world, is a destination with a deep soul and a history carved into stone. Waiting for you are monasteries on the edges of dramatic canyons, views of the sacred Mount Ararat and the warm hospitality of the locals.
From vibrant, pink-hued Yerevan through the blue pearl of Lake Sevan to remote villages where time has stopped – Armenia offers a unique mix of history, nature and authentic experiences.
We’ve put together a complete guide with the most beautiful places and tips on what to see and experience in Armenia, so you can plan your trip to the full.
What to see in Armenia – map:
The most beautiful places in Armenia: monasteries
1) Khor Virap Monastery – the postcard view of Ararat
The most iconic and most photographed view in the whole of Armenia. This monastery stands on a small hill in the Ararat plain, as close as possible to the Turkish border, and offers a breathtaking, almost unreal view of majestic Mount Ararat, where the Bible says Noah landed with his ark.
Practical tip: For the best view and photos, come early in the morning in clear weather, when Ararat is at its most visible and isn’t shrouded in haze. You can also go down into the underground cell where St Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years.
2) Tatev Monastery and the Wings of Tatev – a flight over the abyss
A medieval monastery complex perched dramatically on the edge of the 850-metre-deep canyon of the Vorotan river. Getting there is an experience in itself – you ride up on the longest reversible cable car in the world, the “Wings of Tatev”, which offers spectacular views.
Take a trip from Yerevan to this monastery and explore more wonderful places along the way: Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard, Echmiadzin and Zvartnots
Practical tip: Buy your cable car tickets online in advance to avoid the queues, especially at weekends. There’s a wonderful view of the monastery from the viewpoint by the village of Halidzor.
3) Geghard Monastery (UNESCO) – carved into the rock
An absolutely unique monastery complex, a large part of which is carved directly into the massive rock. The acoustics in the main chapel hewn out of the stone are incredible and the atmosphere of the whole place is mystical and ancient. It’s a masterpiece of Armenian medieval architecture.
From Yerevan you can get there comfortably on a full-day trip: A tour of Tatev, Khndzoresk, the Shaki waterfall and Areni
Practical tip: In high season, hire a local singer to sing for you in the chapel. The experience of the perfect acoustics gives you goosebumps. It’s often combined with a visit to nearby Garni.
We can recommend the trip Garni, Geghard, the Symphony of Stones and lavash baking, which we did ourselves.
4) Noravank Monastery – a gem in a red canyon
An architectural jewel set in the dramatic landscape of a narrow canyon with brick-red cliffs. The most beautiful part is the two-storey church of Surb Astvatsatsin with its unique external staircase. The place is especially magical late in the afternoon, when the setting sun turns the rocks deep red.
Practical tip: The road to the monastery leads through a beautiful canyon. Stop at one of the cave restaurants for lunch and taste the local specialities. From Yerevan, choose this organised trip: Virap, Noravank, caves and a wine tasting.
5) Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries (UNESCO)
Two gorgeous, sprawling monastery complexes in the north of Armenia, jointly inscribed on the UNESCO list. They are masterful examples of Armenian religious architecture and were important centres of learning in the Middle Ages. Haghpat has a wonderful view over the valley of the Debed river.
Practical tip: Between the two monasteries lies the town of Alaverdi with a Soviet-era cable car linking the lower and upper parts of town. Riding it is a thrilling and authentic experience.
6) Sevanavank Monastery – the guardian of Lake Sevan
A monastery built on a peninsula (formerly an island) in Lake Sevan. It consists of two simple but photogenic little churches of dark stone that contrast sharply with the blue of the lake and the sky. The view of the lake from the monastery is beautiful.
Practical tip: Climb up to the monastery early in the morning at sunrise. You’ll have the place almost to yourself and enjoy the magical atmosphere and calm.
7) Haghartsin Monastery – hidden in the forests of Dilijan
A romantic, peaceful monastery hidden in the dense forests of Dilijan National Park. After a recent restoration it looks brand new, but it still keeps its ancient atmosphere. The refectory (dining hall) with its unique stone vaulting is particularly impressive.
We can recommend this trip: Lake Sevan, Sevanavank, Tsaghkadzor, Kecharis and Abovyan
Practical tip: The road to the monastery is narrow and winding. At the monastery you can buy local honey and sweets from the stallholders.
8) Goshavank Monastery
Another of the beautiful monasteries in the Dilijan area, founded in the 12th century by the famous scholar Mkhitar Gosh. It’s renowned for one of the most beautiful and most intricately worked khachkars (stone crosses) in the whole of Armenia, the work of the master Poghos.
Practical tip: This khachkar, known as the “embroidered” one, stands by the wall of the little church. Take a close look at its incredibly fine detail.
What to see in Armenia: cities and places full of life
9) Yerevan – the pink heart of Armenia
A lively, friendly capital whose centre is built of pink volcanic tuff, which gives it a unique colour and atmosphere. It’s a city full of cafés, parks, fountains and galleries, where old Soviet buildings mix with modern architecture.
Practical tip: The water from the little stone drinking fountains called pulpulak, which you’ll find all over the city, is drinkable and refreshing. It’s a symbol of Armenian hospitality.
10) The Cascade complex in Yerevan
A monumental staircase of white travertine linking the city centre with a park on the hill. It’s essentially a huge open-air museum of modern art, with many sculptures (including works by Fernando Botero) and fountains. In clear weather there’s a wonderful view of Yerevan and Ararat from the top.
Practical tip: You don’t have to climb all the steps. Inside the complex there’s a series of escalators that take you comfortably to the top.
11) Republic Square in Yerevan
The grand central square and the heart of Yerevan, surrounded by monumental buildings of pink and yellow tuff. In the evening there’s a stunning “singing fountains” show combining water, lights and music.
Practical tip: It’s a great place for an evening stroll and for watching local life. The atmosphere here is very lively and friendly.
12) Gyumri – a city of art and resilience
Armenia’s second largest city was hit hard by the 1988 earthquake, but it’s slowly recovering. It has a unique character, with a historic centre full of elegant houses of black tuff. It’s a city of artists and craftspeople with a very authentic, unpretentious atmosphere.
Practical tip: Visit the old Kumayri quarter and look out for the traditional wooden balconies and ornate doors.
13) Dilijan – “the Switzerland of Armenia”
A spa town surrounded by the dense forests of Dilijan National Park. It’s a popular place to rest and escape the summer heat. Take a walk along the restored historic Sharambeyan street, which is full of craft workshops and galleries.
Practical tip: Dilijan is a great base for hiking in the surrounding forests and for visiting the Haghartsin and Goshavank monasteries.
14) Goris – the rock town
A picturesque town in southern Armenia, surrounded by bizarre cone-shaped rock formations in which cave dwellings were carved in the past. It’s an ideal starting point for visiting Tatev Monastery and the cave village of Khndzoresk.
Practical tip: Drive up to the viewpoint above the town, which gives the best view of the whole valley and the rock formations.
Natural wonders and breathtaking scenery of Armenia
15) Lake Sevan – the blue pearl of Armenia
One of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world, which for landlocked Armenians is their “sea”. Its colour shifts from azure to deep blue depending on the weather. It’s a popular spot for summer recreation, swimming and tasting the local fish.
Practical tip: You have to try Sevan trout (ishkhan) or whitefish (sig) in one of the restaurants on the shore.
16) The Garni temple and the Symphony of Stones
The only surviving pagan building in Armenia, a magnificent Hellenistic temple dedicated to the sun god Mihr. It stands on the edge of the stunning canyon of the Azat river, whose walls are formed by perfectly symmetrical hexagonal basalt columns, nicknamed the “Symphony of Stones”.
Practical tip: Go down into the canyon (on foot or by 4×4) so you can see the “Symphony of Stones” up close. It’s an incredible geological formation.
17) The canyon of the Vorotan river
One of the deepest and most dramatic canyons in the Caucasus. It’s the one the Wings of Tatev cable car floats above. Driving along the bottom of the canyon on the old road is an adventure in itself and takes you to natural curiosities such as the Devil’s Bridge.
Practical tip: At the Devil’s Bridge (Satani Kamurj) there are natural hot springs where you can bathe.
18) The waterfall in Jermuk
Jermuk is a spa town famous for its hot mineral springs. Its main natural attraction is the 72-metre waterfall, which cascades down the rocks and looks like a girl’s hair.
Practical tip: In the spa colonnade you can taste mineral water at various temperatures straight from the springs.
19) The cave village of Khndzoresk and the swinging bridge
Until the middle of the 20th century, people in this village lived in caves carved into the slopes of a deep canyon. Today it’s a fascinating open-air museum you can explore. The two sides of the canyon are linked by a 160-metre-long swinging suspension bridge.
Practical tip: Crossing the bridge is a bit of a thrill, but the views and the experience are worth it. Sturdy shoes are a must.
20) The Selim caravanserai on the Silk Road
The best preserved caravanserai in Armenia, which served as a refuge for caravans travelling the Silk Road. This simple stone building in the middle of the mountains lets you imagine just how demanding travel was in the Middle Ages.
Practical tip: It sits at the top of the Selim Pass, which offers wonderful views. It’s a great stop on the way between Yerevan and the south of the country.
21) Mount Aragats – the roof of Armenia
Armenia’s highest mountain (4,090 m), an extinct volcano with four peaks surrounding a crater. It’s a popular target for climbers and hikers. Even if you’re not heading for the summit, the drive up to Lake Kari at 3,200 m is beautiful.
Practical tip: The climb to the lowest, southern peak (3,879 m) is technically undemanding and manageable for reasonably fit walkers during the summer months.
22) Lastiver – caves and waterfalls in the jungle
A hidden gem near the town of Ijevan. It’s a canyon with cascading waterfalls, caves and wooden huts built up in the treetops, which feels more like the jungles of Central America.
Practical tip: Getting here is a fairly demanding hike (or an off-road drive). It’s an ideal place for anyone looking for adventure and nature off the main routes.
What to see and experience in Armenia: Armenian culture, crafts and unique experiences
23) Tasting Armenian Ararat brandy
Armenian brandy (cognac) is a source of national pride. Winston Churchill is said to have loved it. Visit the Ararat factory in Yerevan, where you’ll learn all about its history and production, with a tasting of several varieties at the end.
Practical tip: The tour has to be booked in advance. It’s a great experience and a souvenir you can take home.
24) The Areni wine region
Armenia is one of the oldest wine regions in the world. A 6,100-year-old winery was found in the Areni-1 cave. Drive through the region and stop at one of the many family wineries to taste wines from endemic grape varieties.
Practical tip: Every October the village of Areni hosts a big wine festival.
25) Lavash – bread on the UNESCO list
Traditional Armenian bread, a thin flatbread baked in an underground oven called a tonir. The process of making it, which is often a social occasion, is inscribed on the UNESCO list of intangible heritage.
Practical tip: Stop by the road wherever you see a bakery with a tonir and buy freshly baked, warm, fragrant lavash. It’s a culinary experience.
26) The Genocide Memorial (Tsitsernakaberd)
A sober but immensely powerful memorial dedicated to the 1.5 million victims of the Armenian genocide of 1915. The complex consists of an eternal flame surrounded by 12 leaning slabs and a tall obelisk. A visit to the adjacent museum is key to understanding Armenian history and the Armenian soul.
Practical tip: Behave with the utmost respect here and dress modestly. Entry is free.
27) Matenadaran – a treasury of manuscripts
An institute and museum of ancient manuscripts in Yerevan. It holds one of the largest and most valuable collections in the world. You’ll see beautifully illuminated gospels and ancient texts on philosophy, medicine and history.
Practical tip: Even if you’re not a history expert, the beauty and age of the books on display is stunning. Hire a guide to understand the significance of the collections better.
28) The Vernissage market in Yerevan
A large open-air market held every weekend. You’ll find everything here, from traditional crafts, carpets, khachkars and jewellery through paintings to antiques and Soviet-era souvenirs.
Practical tip: Haggling is possible, but always with a smile and respect. It’s a great place to buy original gifts.
29) Tasting khorovats (Armenian BBQ)
Khorovats is more than just food, it’s a social event. It means grilled skewers of marinated meat (pork, lamb, chicken) served with grilled vegetables and lavash.
Practical tip: You’ll taste the best khorovats in restaurants that specialise in grilling, or when invited by locals.
30) Listening to duduk music
The sound of the Armenian duduk, an instrument made of apricot wood, is melancholy, deep and incredibly moving. Its music is on the UNESCO list. Hearing a live performance is a powerful cultural experience.
Practical tip: Duduks are often played by street musicians in the centre of Yerevan or near tourist sights such as Garni.
Where to stay in Armenia
Yerevan – a great base for culture, food and day trips
Recommended area: Kentron (the centre), especially around Republic Square, the Opera or the Cascade. You’ll have everything within walking distance. Treat yourself to Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel – a stylish hotel combining traditional Armenian design with modern luxury. It offers a great location, a pool and an excellent restaurant. If you want a cheaper option, choose Hotel Season.
Goris – as a base for the south of Armenia (Tatev, Khndzoresk)
Stay in one of the family guesthouses (B&Bs) to experience local hospitality. An excellent one is Hayi Tun Guest House
Dilijan – for nature, hiking and quiet
Choose accommodation with a view of the mountains and forests so you can enjoy the atmosphere of “the Switzerland of Armenia” to the full. Try the popular Toon Armeni Guest House – an authentic, beautifully restored house with an incredibly warm, family atmosphere. A great place to get to know the local culture. Or Guest house Dilijan Orran, with a lovely terrace.
Practical tips for travellers
- Transport: – Between towns there’s a network of marshrutkas (minibuses) and shared taxis, which are very cheap. In the cities taxis are ideal; it’s best to use apps such as Yandex Go or GG, which give you a fixed, fair price. For maximum flexibility, rent a car.
- Currency: – The Armenian currency is the dram (AMD). You can pay by card in larger shops and restaurants in Yerevan, but outside the capital you need to carry cash.
- Safety: – Armenia is generally a very safe country with low crime. People are friendly and helpful. Do watch out for the local driving, which can be chaotic.
- Don’t forget about insurance: – We’ve arranged a 50% discount for you with the popular, high-quality insurer AXA Assistance. To get the 50% discount on AXA travel insurance, just click here.
- Language: – The official language is Armenian and many people (especially the older generation) speak Russian. With young people and in tourist services you’ll get by in English. Learn at least “Barev” (hello) and “Shnorhakalutyun” (thank you).
- Visa: – Czech and EU citizens can travel to Armenia without a visa.
- SIM card: – Get a local SIM card right at the airport. It’s very cheap and gives you plenty of data for navigation and staying in touch.
More tips for your travels:
We have prepared for you this comprehensive list of links, discounts, and resources for travel planning in one place. Bookmark this page and whenever you plan a vacation in the future, just open it and save yourself a lot of time.
1) Where to book accommodation?
- We prefer to find an accommodation using Booking.com.
- It's also worth it to compare with AirBnb.
- Read also our guide - How to search for the best accommodation.
2) How to find cheap flights?
- We recommend searching for flights on Skyscanner.
- Read also our complete guide - How to find cheap flights.
3) How to rent a car?
- We recommend a comparison portal RentalCars.com to compare the best offers of all available rental companies.
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