armenia places to visit in december

17 wonderful things to do in Yerevan in winter (2024)

It may be your final destination or your jumping-off point to explore the rest of Armenia, but whatever the purpose of your visit, there are some really great things to do in Yerevan in winter!

Yerevan is a melting pot of history, amazing food , and the warm spirit of its people.

I’ve used my travels to put together this list of the best places to visit in Yerevan in winter, so you can plan the perfect trip! 

Ready to get started?

Let’s dig in!

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Weather in Yerevan in winter

Winters in Yerevan can be quite cold with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Snowfall is common in November-February so make sure you pack accordingly.

Things to do in Yerevan in winter

1. republic square.

Don’t miss a visit to Republic Square when you’re in Yerevan this winter!

Built between 1926 and 1952, this iconic square is the city’s beating heart. During the winter months, it transforms into a winter wonderland complete with festive lights and decorations.

The square is often where the big Christmas tree is placed and where New Year celebrations, concerts, and other seasonal events are held.

2. Go Ice skating

Hit the ice at one of Yerevan’s three skating rinks! Winter Park’s rink is a family favorite, always buzzing with visitors. After you’ve had your skating fun, warm up with hot coffee or tea at the nearby cafe.

Or glide across Swan Lake, transformed into a picturesque rink in winter. Located in the heart of the city near Liberty Square, it’s the perfect spot for couples and friends to skate under Yerevan’s twinkling lights.

For the serious skaters among you, check out the Ice Arena named after Irina Rodnina. It even houses a sports school dedicated to the Figure Skating World Champion.

3. Yerevan Cascade complex

No matter when you visit Yerevan, make sure to experience the Yerevan Cascade Complex.

Built in the 1970s, you’ll find it’s more than just a staircase; it’s also home to some intriguing Brutalist art – some of my favorite!

When it’s lit up in winter, you’ll get great views and a unique cultural experience.

4. Visit the Christmas market on North Avenue

Don’t miss the Christmas market on North Avenue this winter.

You’ll find an array of festive stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to holiday treats.

It’s the perfect spot to soak up some holiday cheer and maybe even find a unique gift or two. Make sure to add it to your Yerevan winter itinerary!

5. Warm up with delicious Armenian food

I LOVE Armenian food , it’s so yum! And even better yet, it’s the perfect comfort food, which is just what you need when it’s cold outside.

Dig into a hot bowl of khash, savor some grilled khorovats, and finish off with a sweet piece of gata. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these flavors!

6. Have a spa day in Jermuk

Jermuk is known for its thermal mineral springs and health spas. So you should consider a rejuvenating getaway during winter.

Here, you can unwind in luxurious spa hotels with a range of therapeutic treatments.

7. The Blue mosque

Yerevan’s Blue Mosque is always a beautiful sight.

Built in the 18th century, it’s one of the city’s oldest buildings and the only active mosque in town.

Whether you’re there for the architecture or for some quiet reflection, it’s a peaceful stop you won’t want to skip.

8. Mother Armenia Statue

It might be cold and snowy but don’t overlook a visit to the Mother Armenia statue.

Standing tall since 1967, this monument offers not only historical significance but also panoramic views of Yerevan.

9. Visit the Winter Park

Get in the winter spirit at Yerevan’s Winter Park! This magical spot has it all—from interactive shows to ice sculptures.

The park is similar to Lapland, and you can even meet Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, elves, and of course Santa’s reindeer, led by Rudolph.

10. Vernissage

Vernissage is a market for unique finds and local crafts.

Open on weekends, this bustling outdoor market is your go-to for everything from handmade jewelry to vintage treasures.

11. Join the Yerevan New Year Run

Looking for a unique and festive way to celebrate the New Year?

Why not dress up as Santa and join the annual New Year’s fun run, organized by the Arm Marathon Foundation, Yerevan City Administration, and TriClub multisport club?

Not only is it fun, but the event also supports charity projects and encourages healthy living in Armenia. All participants receive Santa costumes for the run.

Even if running’s not your thing, witnessing hundreds of Santas sprinting by is a sight you won’t want to miss!

12. GUM Market

If you’re looking for local flavors and fresh produce, make sure the GUM Market is on your itinerary.

From exotic spices to dried fruits and traditional Armenian cheeses, you’ll find it all here.

13. The National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet

If you like opera or just pretty architecture, the National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet is a must-visit.

Opened in 1933, this Yerevan landmark hosts world-class performances ranging from classical ballets to operas.

14. Genocide memorial complex

For a deeper understanding of Armenia’s history, I highly recommend a visit to the Genocide Memorial Complex.

Located on Tsitsernakaberd Hill and opened in 1967, the complex honors the victims of the Armenian Genocide that happened from 1915 to 1923.

It includes a museum, an eternal flame, and several poignant monuments. It’s a somber experience, but it’ll give you important context you shouldn’t skip.

15. Soviet architecture

One of the best things to do in Yerevan is to look for Soviet architecture.

Built mostly during the 20th century, these buildings give you a real feel for a specific time in Armenia’s past.

From the grand scale of Republic Square to the unique designs of government buildings, they make walking around the city like stepping back in time.

16. Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral

While you’re in Yerevan, make sure to stop by Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. It’s one of the top things to do in Yerevan!

Built in 2001 to celebrate Armenia’s 1700 years of Christianity, it’s one of the largest cathedrals in the Caucasus region.

The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere inside is really peaceful.

17. Visit Khor Virap

If you can make a short trip out of Yerevan, don’t miss Khor Virap .

This ancient monastery is not only a significant religious site but also offers some of the best views of Mount Ararat.

Built in the 17th century on the site of a 4th-century chapel, it holds a special place in Armenian history and spirituality.

Best hotels in Yerevan

Looking for the best places to stay in Yerevan? These are my top picks.

Luxury: Paris Hotel Yerevan (⭐ 9.1) – The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful in making sure your stay is nothing short of amazing. The hotel has stylish rooms and a high-quality restaurant so that you can truly enjoy your stay. 

Midrange: L’image Art Hotel (⭐ 8.9) – Located close to many major attractions in the city, this hotel is an ideal spot to both explore Yerevan and relax afterwards in their uniquely designed rooms. 

More posts from Armenia you might like

• 15 amazing things to do in Armenia
• 16 important facts about Armenia
• 10 amazing things to do in Yerevan, Armenia
• Food of Armenia: 14 dishes you must try in Yerevan
• How to visit the legendary Khor Virap monastery
• How to visit the mysterious Geghard Monastery
• Your travel guide to the ancient Temple of Garni

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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• Travel Blog

Planning a Winter Trip to Armenia

Need some help to plan your winter trip to Armenia ? We are always here to help you to arrange a high quality tour to marvelous Armenia and save your time and money on such a little thing as planning.

Winter Season in Armenia

In Armenia Winter replaces Autumn in mid-November. Usually the temperature in December varies from +5C (41f) to -5C (23f). There isn’t much snow in Yerevan and other plains during December, but it’s always snowy in the mountainous regions. The temperature in mountainous regions can vary from -10C (14f) to -15C (5f). Close to January temperature drops for several more degrees. January is much snowy and chilly, though it doesn’t snow much in the capital, but whenever it does, Yerevan turns into a pure white Arcadia. Starting from mid-February the weather gets warmer and you can smell the sweet aroma of looming spring in the air.

What to Wear in Armenia During Winter?

Armenia is a fashion-trendy country; you can see all kinds of fashion subcultures on the streets of Yerevan. However it can be cold , so while packing a suitcase for a winter trip to Armenia, just be sure to choose some warm winter coat and comfortable shoes.

What to do and places to visit During Winter in Armenia?

You can spend some time in Yerevan , walking around the Opera House ( opened in 1933 , today Opera House can host for 1200-1400 people. Tickets are quite affordable, the prices vary from 4$ to 30$, but you will totally enjoy it : Cascade (huge stairs, that are the home of Cafesjian Center for Arts, connects the downtown with Victory park) and North Avenue (a pedestrian avenue that connects Opera House with Republic Square, here you can find many high-end branded shops, commercial offices, hotels, restaurants, cafes and so on), you can have a tour in Yerevan Brandy Factory , visit Erebuni Historical and Archeological Museum-Reserve (also known as Arin Berd), is a museum located at the site of ancient city ruins from the Kingdom of Urartu, that dates back to 728 BC. Erebuni Museum tells the history of Yerevan establishment) and other sightseeing.

On the roads of Armenia : You can take a trip out of Yerevan; for example, to Gyumri ; one of the ancient cities of Armenia with rich history and a unique culture. City was highly damaged during 1988’s earthquake , but still you can find many old buildings and monuments, castles and churches here. Also it’s a great destination for those who love Armenian winter soup Khash .

Dilijan known as lounges of Armenia, or little Switzerland is an old town wrapped with lavish nature and history; Dilijan National Park will amuse you with its incredible Lake Parz (Clear Lake). If you are looking for some youthful adventure you can fly on a zip line over the lake or take a horseback riding tour. Besides ancient buildings and churches, Dilijan is home of UWC Dilijan Colleg e and in a class by itself TUMO center of creativity and technology for youth, places where visitors are always welcome.

Rent a SUV with Enterprise-Armenia and chase away to Khndzoresk which is located 255km (159miles) south of Yerevan, a small village with cave apartments, where people lived till mid-20th century . There is a 160m (525ft) long swinging bridge that connects new Khndzoresk with the old cave village.

Tatev Monastery

Built in 9th century Tatev Monastery is situated on the way to Khndzoresk. In 14-15 centuries Tatev Monastery hosted a very important University. Today Tatev is connected with Halidzor with the world's longest ropeway. You will enjoy the alluring scenery under the cabin while soaring over the forest with old ruins.

Armenia is mountainous country and has a world known sky resorts such as Tsaghkadzor and Jermuk (link with 5 things to do). Here you will appreciate the high quality services, ropeway, skiing and snowboarding on 1750 to 2000m (5741-6562ft) above the sea level.

There is so much to do and see during winter in Armenia . Plan your trip beforehand and don’t forget to take your driving license with you. Enterprise-Armenia will help you to select the right vehicle upon the occasion; if you are going to visit mountainous or remote locations, an SUV will be recommended. If you are planning to have a city travel, a sedan as an alternative option can be suggested.

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The top 6 best places to visit in Armenia in December

The arrival of winter makes it the ideal time to set out on an enchanted journey to a place that may not quickly spring to mind is Armenia. In December, this idyllic nation at the meeting point of Western Asia and Eastern Europe provides a unique and fascinating experience. In front of snow-covered mountains, Armenia becomes an enchanted winter wonderland just waiting to be discovered. Take into consideration holiday packages to Armenia from Dubai if you’re organizing a memorable winter vacation. With an understanding of what makes each of the top 6 destinations in Armenia so unique during this cosy and joyful month of December, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of them in this blog. Prepare to uncover Armenia’s hidden gems as we walk you through the top winter travel spots in this fascinating nation.

1. Yerevan – The Capital City

• Festive Atmosphere: However, Yerevan really springs to life in December when it is decorated with bright garlands and sparkle of light, magically turning it into another world.
• Republic Square: The city’s very heart would be the ideal place to set off your journey. These include the National History Museum and the Art Museum where Armenia’s cultural heritage is exhibited.
• Cascade Complex: The Cascade Complex is an ideal location, offering panoramic views of the town buried in white snow. Its beautiful stairs are well worth the walk, each decorated with contemporary artwork.

2. Garni Temple

• Historical Significance: If you visit Garni temple, which is dedicated to Mihr, the sun god, I am sure that it will take you to the days of yore. A view that one cannot afford to miss is how the temple stands in contrast to the snowy backgrounds of the mountains.
• Garni Gorge Hot Springs: Relax at the thermal springs located in the adjacent Garni Gorge after visiting the shrine. The experience of being immersed in these mineral-rich pools among the snowy panorama is simply delighting.

3. Geghard Monastery

• Rock-Cut Architecture: The rock-cut architecture in this UNESC listed place makes it worth visiting at any time of the year. The atmosphere becomes magical in December when the surroundings are immaculate with fresh snow.
• Traditional Christmas Concerts: One can visit the fantastic acoustic conditions of Aragatsotn province during the Christmas period and see the tradition Armenian Christmas concerts in this area. Embrace the religious and musical practices of Armenia.

4. Lake Sevan

• Winter Wonderland: In December, a lake called “the jewel of Armenia” that is located in the town of Sevan changes its view. It becomes a huge beautiful ice rink after the lake freezes over.
• Febbra: It changes into a big impressive ice hockey rink when the lake hardens up. Ice fishing, skating and skiing in the lake will create some lasting memories that are worth trying out during this occasion.

5. National Park of Dilijan

• Armenia’s Little Switzerland: Known as “Armenia’s Little Switzerland,” Dilijan National Park is a peaceful forest that transforms into a charming winter getaway in December.
• Hiking and Wildlife: With options for hiking and wildlife viewing, it’s a refuge for nature lovers. Discover the peaceful forests, take in the refreshing winter air, and admire Armenia’s natural beauty.

6. Wine Region of Areni

• Wine Cellars: For wine lovers, the Areni Wine Region is a wine lover’s dream come true. The warm, inviting atmosphere of historic wine cellars is enhanced in December.
• Armenian Wine Tasting: Savour regional specialties and sample delicious Armenian wines. This area’s wineries are well-known for producing wines that have won awards, so you can expect a great palate experience.

For those who love the cold and culture, December in Armenia is a dream come true. Discover the unique and lovely experience this charming country has to offer, complete with snow-covered landscapes and a festive atmosphere, is just waiting for you to discover. Armenia is a land of diversity and beauty, from the bustling streets of Yerevan with its shining lights to the historic wonders of Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery. Remember to enjoy the peace of Dilijan National Park, the rich flavours of the Areni Wine Region, and the winter activities at Lake Sevan. Consider ordering Armenia holiday packages from Dubai to make your trip even more simple and unforgettable. December in Armenia is a hidden jewel, with a beautiful blend of natural splendor, culture, and history. December in Armenia is a hidden jewel, with a beautiful blend of natural splendor, culture, and history. This winter paradise offers something for everyone, whether your goal is adventure, relaxation, or just a change of pace. Therefore, the festive season, pack your warmest clothes, get ready for comfortable evenings by the fireside, and allow Armenia’s beauty to captivate the senses.

5 unique winter adventures to have in Armenia

Armenia is a country that is unique and attractive at all four seasons. Many people say that Armenia is a land of sun and mountains. Armenian summers are fascinating. Mornings are so sunny and charming, the evenings are full of adventurous activities. But it’s worth visiting Armenia in winter. The mountains that are covered by the soft snow and the picturesque views of marvelous Armenian winter will seem to you magical. There are many places and unforgettable adventures that are worth to try in Armenia during winter.

If you visit Armenia in November, you will already feel the breath of cold winter and the warm atmosphere of the Christmas mess. Christmas is an excellent holiday for the Armenians, and they start to prepare for Christmas since November. Winters in Armenia are very chilly due to abundant snow. During the winter the weather is sometimes becoming rainy. The heavy snowfall begins in early January, and the white and pure snow is covering all the country. Armenia is getting white magically and beautifully.

Here are five options to have a great time in Armenia during winter.

Winter activity in Armenia #1- Visit Tsaghkadzor resort

Tsaghkadzor is a modern and beautiful resort in Armenia. It’s considered to be one of the most visiting places among the tourists. It's 55 km North-East of Yerevan city and has become the favorite place for those who prefer active rest. This marvelous spot is always full of adventurous tourists and not only. The resort offers you a lot of outdoor activities to do and gives you so many versions to have a great time.

If you are a sports lover, don’t miss the chance to enjoy skating. If you are a beginner, don't worry, because after a couple of days you can become a professional one. There are professional sportsmen, who are willing to teach you.

Another great news for extreme lovers is ropeway. The Tsaghkadzor ropeway is on a slope of Teghenis mount. The absolute height and speed of the ropeway will make you crazy. When getting on, you can look at the entire picturesque view of Yerevan. Winter outdoor activities even include beautiful zip-line flight. It is a favorite destination for extreme lovers.

One of the zip-lines is in Tsaghkadzor, which is a perfect destination for the ones who prefer actively spending their winter holiday. It’s a spot for those who are adventurous and desire to please their lack of adrenaline. The zip-line is a unique way for the tourists to overcome the fear of height and feel the enjoyment of adrenaline. The flight duration of two-way ziplining is 15-25 minutes; the price is 10 000 AMD. Of course, if you ever have a chance to visit Tsaghkadzor, then beat Kecharis Monastery , as it is a part of Armenian culture .

Winter activity in Armenia #2 - Taste traditional Armenian meal

One of the most delicious Armenian meals is khash . It is also known as “Armenian winter soup”. It is the favorite and traditional food for the cold winter. As once you taste it, you will never forget its exceptional taste. When cold winter starts, all the khash-lovers are hurry to the cozy and warm restaurants to feel the tasty breath of cold winter.

The main ingredient of khash are the feet of a cow; the other essential ingredients are the onion, the chili pepper, the garlic, and the water.

Winter activity in Armenia #3 - Visit Jermuk resort

Another fantastic place to visit in Armenia during winter is Jermuk , which is in the Vayots Dzor region. Jermuk is also famous for its healing waters. Besides medical services Jermuk also offers ski resorts for lively tourists. Recently the ropeway has also constructed here, so for active rest lovers, this is a perfect place.

The weather is cold here in winter and will allow you to enjoy evening winter activities too. And, of course, there are a lot of restaurants and cafes, which welcome you to celebrate the New Year. There are also a few entertainment centers for you to have fun with friends and family. The prices are also affordable. This fantastic destination is waiting for you on your winter holidays, so hurry up.

Winter activity in Armenia #4 - Enjoy skate rinks in Yerevan

The Armenians are joyful people, and they like happily spending their time. They do everything that will allow them to spend their time actively. On the New Year days, are many people on the streets, mainly in entertainment centers. The most overcrowded places in Yerevan are skate rinks . There is fantastic news for skate lovers. There are two well-designed skate rinks in Yerevan.

The first one is near to the Opera and Ballet Theatre. In summers it's called "Swan Lake", in which swans swim. While in winters it turns into a big and beautiful rink, which is full of active skaters. The festive atmosphere will make your visit there and enjoy the fresh breath of cold weather. But at the same time, you will enjoy the warm people and a cosy atmosphere.

You can feel the real drive-by skating here. Another one is an indoor rink where you can learn to skate. If you are a professional one, you can enjoy the adrenaline of skating.

Winter activity in Armenia #5 - Welcome New Year night at Republic Square

Yerevan is a very active and lively city. If you want to become a part of the joyful mess, then be present at the Republic Square on the New Year night. The excellent singers, the glowing lights will make your night special. The tourists who want to enjoy the live concert can welcome the first day of the New Year at the Republic Square.

They can have a great chance to take part in the festive live show. It starts at 10 pm, and during the concert, there are being premieres of new thematic songs. The Armenians say that in the way your New Year begins, in the way it will continue. So have fun at winter holidays by welcoming the New Year at the Republic Square.

Published Dec. 03, 2018 Article by Elen Sargsyan

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Home » Travel Guides » Armenia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

Armenia is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction, with the small but charming nation boasting a rich history.

Armenia, which was the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion, boasts some of Europe’s most stunning views, with the peak of Mount Ararat dominating the country’s skyline. The mountain is Armenia’s national symbol despite its peak lying just over the Turkish border and Ararat is considered holy by locals due to its mention in The Bible – it is where Noah’s Ark landed.

Armenia is home to countless beautiful monasteries and they are often found in areas of truly outstanding natural beauty. Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, is one of the most rapidly developing cities in the whole of Europe as the nation continues to embrace tourism. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Armenia !

By far the largest city in Armenia, the capital Yerevan is a great place to start for anyone wishing to explore Armenia. The city is home to the grand Republic Square, while climbing the Cascade to see the city’s monument to Soviet victory in the Second World War is a must.

Yerevan is a deeply historic city and visiting the Armenian Genocide Memorial is a must to learn more about the nation’s troubled past. Vernissage market is worth visiting too – it is open at the weekend – while a walk through the Hrazdan gorge is also highly recommended.

Much of what Armenia has to offer can be explored during day trips from Yerevan, which is known as the City of Cafes.

Yerevan is also home to Blue Mosque, which is the only mosque in the whole of the country, as well as Levon’s Amazing Underground World, which is one of Europe’s most unusual attractions.

2. Shikahogh State Reserve

The second largest forest reserve in Armenia, Shikahogh State Reserve is so unspoiled that large parts of it remains unexplored to this day.

The forest is believed to be home to animals including leopards, bears, wild goats and vipers and it is also thought that Shikahogh State Reserve has about 1,100 species of plants, although its fauna has not yet been fully explored. The reserve was threatened by a planned highway in 2005, but environments successfully lobbied for the forest’s future to be protected.

The reserve also has a number of very beautiful waterfalls to enjoy.

3. Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan, found in the heart of Armenia, is the country’s largest lake and a beautiful place to visit during a break in the country. The lake is surrounded by some stunning monasteries – the most impressive of them being arguably the Sevanavank Monastery – providing a glorious scenic backdrop to a relaxing trip.

Windsurfing is among the recreation activities available at the lake, which also has a wide choice of excellent seafood restaurants along its shore.

Lake Sevan has a number of popular beaches and, as the country has no coastline, this is the best place in Armenia to sunbathe, with Sevan Bay and its surrounding mountains providing spectacular scenery.

4. Dilijan National Park

Armenia has four national parks and Dilijan national park may be the most beautiful of the lovely quartet. The park, which was only established in 2002, is famous for its medicinal mineral water springs, as well as its natural monuments.

Many of Armenia’s more important cultural locations can be found within the grounds of the park, such as Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank Monastery  and Jukhtak Vank, as well as Matosavank Monastery and the Akhnabat church.

The Aghestev and Getik river basins are also both within the boundaries of Dilijan national park.

5. Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats is one of Armenia’s most stunning natural sights, with the dormant volcano located in the north of the country. It is Armenia’s highest peak and there is a lot of rock art to be enjoyed around its base, with paintings of animals and human-like figures dating back hundreds of years.

Snow covers the peak almost all year-round but Mount Aragats can be climbed, with July, August and September the best times of the year to attempt the hike.

The southernmost of the four peaks is the easiest to climb, while the northern peak, at around 4,000 metres, is the most challenging.

6. Lake Arpi

While Lake Sevan can be extremely crowded during the peak tourist season, Lake Arpi has a much more relaxed feel.

Used for irrigation and hydropower production, Lake Arpi is also the source of the Akhurian River. In 2009 a new park was established around the lake to protect the natural environment, with around 100 species of birds known to live in the area. Lake Arpi also hosts rich flora and fauna and is a Ramsar Convention protected site.

Lake Arpi has one the largest colonies of Armenian Gull and its recreation activities include camping and walking tours.

7. Noravank

Monasteries are one of Armenia’s defining characteristics and the example at Noravank is one of the most beautiful in the whole country. Sheer brick-red cliffs shield the monastery, which was built in the 13th century.

Noravank is famous for its Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, while the story goes that the monastery was saved by God himself when Armenia was conquered by the Mongols hundreds of years ago.

If you only choose to go to one monastery during a trip to Armenia, Noravank would be an extremely good selection – thousands of people visit every year.

The second largest city in Armenia, Gyumri is well worth a visit for anyone heading to the country for the first time. Perhaps the best place from which to enjoy the sights of Gyumri is from the Black Fortress on the hill that overlooks the city, while the massive Mother Armenia statue can also be found nearby.

Many of the most important cultural institutions of Armenia are in Gyumri, such as the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri, as well as the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum and the Sergey Merkurov House-Museum.

The Kumayri Historic District is Gyumri’s oldest area, with a thousand ancient buildings found here.

9. Vanadzor

Armenia’s third major city is Vanadzor, which is located in the north of the country. Vanadzor is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Lori region, which is certainly one of the best places to visit in Armenia.

The Vanadzor Botanical Garden is one of the finest tourist attractions in the city, while visitors should also consider checking out the Vanadzor fine art museum. The many mineral springs of the Lori region mean there are a wide range of terrific spas to enjoy in and around Vanadzor.

Although Vanadzor is primarily an industrial city, it also houses many theatres, such as the Bohem Chamber Theatre of Vanadzor and the Vanadzor Puppet Theatre.

10. Amberd Fortress

Dating back to the seventh century, Amberd Fortress is one of the most stunning places to visit in Armenia. Formerly among the Armenian Kingdom’s primary military-defensive points, the fortress can be reached in about an hour from the capital city Yerevan.

However, snowfall can make the fortress inaccessible during the winter months, with the weather usually improving by late May. The view from the top of the fortress is truly breathtaking, while the building itself is also stunning.

Amberd Fortress is a short trip from the village of Byurakan, home of the Byurakan Observatory.

11. Tsaghkadzor

Armenia’s mountainous scenery makes it ideal for winter sports and the country’s best ski resort can be found at Tsaghkadzor in the heart of the country. Ski lifts are paid for by the ride and are among the most affordable in Europe.

Tsaghkadzor boasts some of the finest hotels in the country, while the resort also has one of the nation’s biggest entertainment centers in the form of the Senator Royale casino complex.

Tsaghkadzor also has the Kecharis Monastery, which is one of Armenia’s most important religious complexes, dating back to the start of the 11th century.

12. Upper Azat Valley

The Upper Azat Valley is one of Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, partly due to the incredible Geghard Monastery for which the region is most famous. The main chapel was built 800 years ago but the history of the monastery goes all the way back to the fourth century, when it was founded by Gregory the Illuminator.

According to legend, the Geghard Monastery once housed one of the spears that was used to crucify Jesus Christ, brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, and as such it is one of Armenia’s most important religious sites.

The Upper Azat Valley is also home to the St Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) chapel, which is partially carved out of the rock.

13. Karahunj Observatory

Often referred to internationally as Armenia’s version of Britain’s Stonehenge, Karahunj is one of the most fascinating places to visit during a break in Armenia.

Located close to the city of Sisian in the Syunik province, Karahunj is made up of well over 200 massive stone tombs, while the main area sees 40 stones standing in a circular formation, supposedly built in honour of the Armenian main God, Ari, named after the Sun.

A small museum in Sisian is dedicated to findings that have been made at Karahunj, which is claimed to be the oldest observatory of its kind in the world.

14. Khor Virap

Views of Mount Ararat can be enjoyed from all over Armenia, but perhaps the best scenery of the mountain can be found from the Khor Virap monastery, which is definitely also worth visiting in its own right.

This location is one of the most important historic sites in Armenia’s history as it was where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years before he cured King Trdat III of his disease. The King then converted to Christianity, paving the way for Armenia’s religious future.

As such, Khor Virap is a popular spot for Armenian weddings today, while the underground chamber in which Gregory the Illuminator was held can be visited during a trip to Khor Virap, which is among Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage sites as a result.

Our final selection for the best places to visit in Armenia is Dvin, one of the country’s oldest cities – in fact, it was the capital of Armenia in medieval times. A sixth century BC fortress was also once situated in Dvin, according to Unesco, while incredible artefacts are regularly found in this part of Armenia.

More modern sights can also be enjoyed in the city, such as the St. Harutyun Church in Dvin, which was built in 2000.

Dvin once housed the Cathedral of St. Grigor, but all that remains of the building today is the stone foundations that have been uncovered by archeologists.

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia:

• Shikahogh State Reserve
• Dilijan National Park
• Mount Aragats
• Amberd Fortress
• Tsaghkadzor
• Upper Azat Valley
• Karahunj Observatory

Things to do in Yerevan in December

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December is a good time to visit Yerevan . The weather is usually really cold, humid but cool, with temperatures ranging from 21—39°F (-6—4°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Yerevan during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a tour of the Yerevan Brandy Company, attend the New Year's Eve celebrations in Yerevan, take a trip to Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort, and more!

Yerevan has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Yerevan. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Yerevan in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Yerevan in December

Top experiences in december, take a tour of the yerevan brandy company, attend the new year's eve celebrations in yerevan, take a trip to tsaghkadzor ski resort, take a day trip to the ancient monastery of geghard, visit the armenian genocide memorial and museum, visit the christmas market in republic square, sample traditional armenian holiday treats at local bakeries, explore the vernissage market for unique holiday gifts, holidays in yerevan in december.

• Spitak Remembrance Day ( December 7 )
• Genocide Condemnation and Prevention Day ( December 9 )
• New Year's Eve ( December 31 )

Other notable holidays

• Local Self-Government Day ( November 10 )
• New Year's Day ( January 1 — 2 )
• Christmas Eve ( January 5 )
• Christmas Day ( January 6 )
• Christmas Remembrance Day ( January 7 )
• Army Day ( January 28 )
• Mother Language Day ( February 21 )
• Feast of Saint Vartan ( February 27 )
• International Women's Day ( March 8 )
• Motherhood and Beauty Day ( April 7 )
• Armenian Cinema Day ( April 16 )
• Good Friday ( April 18 )
• Weather in Yerevan in December

Temperatures on an average day in Yerevan in December

The average temperature in Yerevan in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 39°F (4°C) to a low of 21°F (-6°C). Some would describe it as really cold, humid but cool.

For comparison, the hottest month in Yerevan , July, has days with highs of 86°F (30°C) and lows of 60°F (15°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 35°F (2°C) and lows of 17°F (-8°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Yerevan in December based on historical data.

Visiting Yerevan? See our Yerevan Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in December

General weather summary, what to wear in december, best attractions for yerevan in december.

Top searches in Yerevan

Popular road trips from yerevan, what's the weather like in yerevan.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Yerevan for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Yerevan in January
• Weather in Yerevan in February
• Weather in Yerevan in March
• Weather in Yerevan in April
• Weather in Yerevan in May
• Weather in Yerevan in June
• Weather in Yerevan in July
• Weather in Yerevan in August
• Weather in Yerevan in September
• Weather in Yerevan in October
• Weather in Yerevan in November

All road trips from Yerevan

• Yerevan to Istanbul drive
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Explore nearby places

• Dzoraghbyur

All related maps of Yerevan

• Map of Yerevan
• Map of Arinj
• Map of Getargel
• Map of Ptghni
• Map of Dzoraghbyur
• Map of Geghard
• Map of Abovyan
• Map of Arzni
• Map of Yeghvard
• Map of Geghashen
• Map of Kaputan
• Map of Garni
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Yerevan throughout the year

• Yerevan in January
• Yerevan in February
• Yerevan in March
• Yerevan in April
• Yerevan in May
• Yerevan in June
• Yerevan in July
• Yerevan in August
• Yerevan in September
• Yerevan in October
• Yerevan in November
• Yerevan in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Yerevan?

Get inspired for your trip to Yerevan with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Yerevan Itinerary
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• 5-Day Yerevan Itinerary

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Planning a trip in Armenia December 7 to December 10. What are your recommended tourist destinations on those dates??..I wanna see snow. I wanna explore nature and I wanna get beautiful photos..

Hi , I can recommend you city-resort Tsaghkadzor ( but I'm not sure about weather , I think that December probably will be snowy . You can write me , I will do my best to help you.

At the beginning of December the most likely places for snow are Tsaghkadzor ski resort town and the lake Kari on mt. Aragats. In addition, find time to visit the temple Garni, the Azat river gorge, Geghard monastery, the lake Sevan and Dilijan tiwn and surrounding as must to see places.

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Explore the winter Armenia / 10 days

Armenia is an ideal country for winter hikes, especially for mountain lovers. Many people cannot imagine what one should do in Armenia in winter, except ski holidays. We made this tour to show you the great variety of winter Armenia destinations. We offer you to walk through snowy and fairy forests, gorges, villages, monasteries. You can even easily climb a mountain, as the climate is very mild here, and the mountain that we chose for the following tour is not so high and is perfect for winter hike.

Snow is beautifully blended with the colors of Armenia, emphasizing the perfection of the nature. You can check this out by visiting Armenia in winter.

Travel dates: 13 – 22 January, 2025

Day 1: Yerevan

Meeting the group at the airport and transfer to the hotel. After meeting each other, we will go on a city tour. During the walking tour, we will explore the city architecture, and see the landmarks, which are appear to be the hallmark of Armenia.

Driving: 25 km

Hiking: (excursion)

Day 2: On the Road to South Armenia

In the morning of the second day, we will move to the South Armenia. On our way, we will see the famous and significant temple – Khor Virap. The temple is built on the deep pit, where on the 14th century Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for about 13 years. We will go down there and try to feel the spirit of the past. Khor Virap is also known for its beautiful view of Mount Ararat.

Khor Virap / Photographer Anatoliy Gopanenko

Then we will go down to the canyon, where the divine beauty of the Hell’s Canyon will be waiting for us.

We will walk along the river and admire the beauty and power of the massive rocks. During our journey, we will see how the canyon changes its views all the time.

Hells Canyon

Details of the day:

• Location – Ararat province / Vayots Dzor province
• Distance on car  – 170 km
• Height of the mountain – 1735 m
• Relative altitude – 400 m
• Length of the route – 11 km
• Difficulty level – moderate

Day 3: An Alpine Fortress on the Edge of the Cliff

Chronologically walking through history, we appear in the 5th century, when one of the best-preserved fortresses of Armenia was built. It is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs and has strong walls with semicircular towers with the height of 8-10 meters and the width of 3-4 meters. There are many stories and legends about this fortress associated with the name of one of the great Armenian kings. From here, we can clearly see the Mount Teksar. After exploring the fortress, we will continue our trip to a village, which once was a fortified medieval town.

In the evening, we will go to Syunik region.

Smbataberd Fortress

• Location – Vayots Dzor province
• Driving – 180 km
• Relative altitude – 250 m
• Length of the route – 9 km
• Difficulty level – medium
• Overnight stay – Goris

Day 4: Phantoms of Vorotan Gorge

In the morning, we will go down to the Vorotan Gorge, where we will see several abandoned villages with big houses carved into the rock. After seeing all this, you can easily imagine how people once lived in the caves.

Vorotan gorge

We will continue traveling through time and head to the Old Khndzoresk village. Old Khndzoresk – a village spread over about 3 km at the slopes of the deep gorge, was one of the most populous villages of Syunik region. In the 20 century, the settlement was moved to the top of the cliff. One can reach Old Khndzoresk only by the 160 meters long rocking suspension bridge, passing over a deep gorge. The bridge itself is a landmark and attracts not only tourist, but the local people as well.

• Location – Syunik province
• Driving – 60 km
• Relative altitude – 400 m
• Length of the route – 10 km

Day 5:  «Wings of Tatev» and Noravank Monastery

In the morning we will cross the deep Vorotan Gorge on the world’s longest ropeway, which will bring us to the famous Tatev Monastery.

“Wings of Tatev” was recorded by Guiness World Records as the world’s longest non-stop double track cable car. The record was not only the length 5 752 meters, but the construction time as well – only 10 months. The ropeway is passing over the Vorotan River Gorge and connecting two villages – Halidzor and Tatev. At its highest point over the gorge, the car travels 320 m above ground level.

Tatev monastery / Photographer Elena Shuvayeva

Next, we will go to the famous Carahunge. Until now, the scientists have not figured out why it was built. Some scientists consider that Carahunge is the world’s oldest astronomical observatory, but some of them are against that idea and think that Carahunge is a place of power, and in ancient times, people made sacrifices to the gods here.

Noravank Monastery

Passing through the centuries, we will reach, let’s say, the Late Middle Ages and visit the Noravank Monastery, which the locals also call the Red Monastery. The gorge where the monastery is situated is known for its steep red cliffs, towering behind the monastery. In Soviet times, the championship of rock climbing was held here. Noravank is also known for its bas-relief where the image of God is.

• Driving – 230 km
• Length of the route – 4 km
• Difficulty level – easy
• Overnight stay – Yerevan

Day 7: Mount Arteni

Early in the morning, we will go to the foot of Mount Arteni. Arteni is quite big volcano with interesting liparite structure. The mountain is located on the southwestern periphery of Aragats massif in Talin.

After climbing the mountain, we will go to Kakheni castle, which was built during the reign of the Kamsarakans. Kakheni is one of the well-preserved fortresses in Armenia.

• Location – Aragatsotn province
• Relative altitude – 550 m
• Length of the route – 8 km

Day 8: Winter’s Fairytale

In the morning, we will head to the timeless treasure, to the eternal and beautiful Lake Sevan. The lake is located at an altitude of 1900 meters. People call it the pearl of Armenian mountains, and this metaphor reflects the whole essence of the attitude to Lake Sevan. We will visit the Sevanavank Monastery, which is located on the Sevan peninsula.

Then we will go to the Tavush region. If there are participants interested in trying the ‘zipline’ experience, we will accommodate that activity first. Afterward, we will continue our journey along the picturesque Khachaghbyur gorge, leading us to the enchanting destination known as Lastiver. We will see small tree houses, a waterfall, and caves, where hermits used to live. This place looks wonderful in any season.

• Location – Tavush province
• Driving – 150 km
• Difficulty level – medium
• Overnight stay – Dilijan

Day 9: An impregnable fortress

Through dense forests of Tavush we will head to the impregnable Girl’s Fortress, which used to be one of the most significant fortresses in Armenia. During our trip, we will see the remained walls of the fortress, which occupy a big territory. During the hike, we will tell you a beautiful legend connected with this fortress.

The Girl’s Fortress/ Tavush

• Relative altitude – 600 m

Day 10: Sunny Yerevan

Before leaving for the airport, we will have time to walk around Yerevan. There is a market known as “Vernissage” very close to the Republic Square. Here you can get souvenirs and many other things typical for Armenia.

At the end we will exchange the contacts and transfer you to the airport.

Tour Price:

The price includes:

• the service of the English-speaking guide
• transfer from the airport and back
• transportation within Armenia
• accommodation
• food service during the whole tour
• tickets for Garni temple
• tickets for “Wings of Tatev”

The price does not include:

• air tickets
• rent of personal equipment
• alcoholic beverages
• zipline tickets (30$)

For booking as well as for all questions, please contact us .

Winter Hiking in Armenia

New Year hike in Armenia (6 days)

One Night in the Cave of Lastiver / Two Day Tour

Climbing Mount Artanish / One Day Tour

A Medieval Fortress Covered in White / One Day Tour

Winter Lastiver / One Day Tour

Winter Holidays in Armenia

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary: 5 to 7 Days (or More!)

Last Updated on February 16, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the least-visited countries in Europe, Armenia can be viewed as an exotic destination that only the most intrepid of travellers would choose to visit. Because of this, there isn’t a lot of information about this South Caucasus nation available online and it can make planning the perfect Armenia itinerary a difficult task.

Because so many of those who do visit Armenia do it by organised tour, it can be very tricky to find the right information for those who want to visit this underrated country independently. Planning a trip to Armenia is one of the best decisions you could make, especially if you’re combining it with a trip through the other Caucasus countries of Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Armenia

Despite its relatively southern geographic location, Armenia very much experiences four proper seasons and, therefore, there are some times of year to visit this Caucasian nation that are better than others.

Winters in Armenia can be very cold, with high temperatures between the months of December-February barely clocking in above freezing. Luckily, however, the cold weather doesn’t tend to last too long as it will usually begin to warm up in the month of March and temperatures will fall into the low 20s Celcius (70s Fahrenheit) by April.

Because of this, travelling in the springtime is one of the best times of year to plan a trip to Armenia. Besides the tendency for a bit more rain, the temperatures will be mild and pleasant with it rarely getting too hot or too cold.

The Autumn seasons between September-November also see similar temperatures to Spring albeit with less rain, making that the absolute optimal time to visit Armenia.

Summers in Armenia are sunny and hot, with daily high temperatures often clocking in over 40 degrees Celcius (102 degrees Fahrenheit). Though many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants will be air-conditioned, this becomes less likely the further from big cities or tourist hotspots you venture.

It is also worth noting that public transport (like buses and marshrutkas) rarely are air-conditioned so it can get unbearably hot to travel from point A to B in the summer.

All in all, the best times to visit Armenia would likely be in the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November.

How Many Days in Armenia?

If you’re wondering how many days in Armenia is sufficient to get a good feel for the country but you’re strapped for time, we would recommend spending five days in this southern Caucasian nation. This will give you time to explore the lively capital of Yerevan, take a day trip into the surrounding area, and spend a couple of nights in a smaller city as well.

Spending 5 days in Armenia will allow you to get beyond the capital and experience the culture of this underrated travel destination without being too exhausting or taking too much time.

If you have longer, spending one week in Armenia is ideal to get a really good grasp of the country and a more well-rounded view of the culture and history of this beautiful nation.

With 7 days, you have time not only to explore the capital city, but you can head quite off the beaten path and take in the city of Gyumri and enjoy some of the beautiful nature that Armenia has to offer.

Getting Around Armenia

Armenia isn’t that highly-visited of a country and those who do venture to this underappreciated nation tend to do so on an organised tour, which means that figuring out how to get around independently can be a confusing and albeit daunting task for tourists.

Luckily, locals in Armenia tend to be extremely helpful and eager to lend a hand to confused visitors, so it is likely that you wouldn’t be stranded for too long if you couldn’t figure something out.

If you only plan to visit Yerevan while you explore Armenia, getting around the city is incredibly easy and manageable as the majority of the city’s main sites can be reached on foot and the city centre is compact and easy to navigate. Anything else that is not within walking distance is easy to get to with either the metro or an affordable taxi ride.

Taxi rides are accessible for most travellers in Yerevan and it can actually be the easiest way to get to some more out-of-the-way attractions within the city. It is worth knowing, however, that taxis throughout Armenia (and the Caucasus in general) don’t tend to have meters, so it is essential to negotiate a price before you get in.

Finding a cab through the Yandex taxi app or the Bolt app is a great option. This operates much in the same way as Uber and will quote you the exact price of the journey before you get in the cab, leaving out any need for stressful negotiations.

If you’re travelling outside of the capital — for example, from Yerevan to Dilijan , Gyumri, or Goris — there are a few options available for independent travellers. The easiest and most common option for inter-city travel in Armenia is by marshrutka, or minibus.

Depending on the popularity of your destination, marshrutkas have a vague schedule and generally depart when full or mostly full.

The destination of the bus will be posted in the front window and it will generally be in the Latin or Cyrillic alphabet if they are popular routes amongst tourists. If you can’t already, it can be helpful to learn the Cyrillic alphabet or learn what your destinations look like printed both in Cyrillic and in the Armenian alphabet.

You can find the most up-to-date bus timetables from tourist information centres or from your guesthouse, hostel, or hotel staff. Often, you might need to book a spot on the bus if there are only a finite number that leave per day. The tourist info centre or your accommodation can call and book these for you as well.

Generally speaking, you pay the driver for the ride, however, there are some routes where you buy a ticket at a counter instead. Don’t worry, they will let you know for your specific route.

Train travel does exist in Armenia, however, it isn’t all that well-developed and not every route is available. While the trains are not the most comfortable mode of transportation in Armenia, they tend to be more comfortable than a marshrutka and can be preferable if there an option for your route. Ticket prices vary, but they are quite affordable.

Another easy way to get around Armenia, especially if you’re on a tight schedule and not travelling on a tight budget, is to rent a car. Though the road quality may not be the best in some areas of the country, having your own car makes it easy to travel independently and to see some out-of-the-way attractions without having to rely on organised tours or being beholden to erratic bus schedules.

If you want to find great prices on car hire, you can rent private cars directly from locals through Local Rent .

5 to 7-Day Armenia Itinerary

Day 1 – yerevan.

Armenia’s dynamic capital city has been continuously inhabited for more than 2,800 years, however, it retains a modern and hip edge that cements itself firmly in the 21st century. With an easy-to-navigate city centre and a streetside cafe culture to rival Paris, Yerevan is one of the most logical places to begin your itinerary for Armenia.

Because it doesn’t have as much information written about as neighbouring capitals like Tbilisi or Baku , many people will ask themselves “is Yerevan worth visiting?” And the answer to this is a resounding “yes,” especially if you are planning a larger Caucasus itinerary and want to see how all three capitals differ.

If you trying to figure out how many days in Yerevan is best to get to know the city, then we would say three. Spend your first day in Yerevan in the city centre, enjoying the main sites and getting the lay of the land.

The current centre of Yerevan was designed in the 1920s by Armenian architect Alexander Tamanian and, as a planned city, it is much easier to navigate than the other two Caucasus capitals, with wide avenues and a logical setup to the streets.

Begin your morning at the impressive Cascade complex , a series of steps spanning seven floors where, from the top on a clear day, you can see spectacular views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat in the distance.

If the 572 steps of the complex seem daunting to you, there are a series of escalators inside that you can take to the top instead. These are free to use and are open every day. There are also some interesting art exhibitions inside to enjoy while you’re riding up. No doubt that visiting the Cascade complex is one of the best things to do in Armenia.

After enjoying the Cascade, walk a few hundred metres to see the imposing Armenian Opera building, also designed by Alexander Tamanian. While the building isn’t as impressive as the one you might find in Tbilisi, it is still a great example of Armenian neoclassical architecture.

The building consists of two concert halls: the Alexander Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet National Theatre and the Aram Khachaturian concert hall which is home to the Armenian Philharmonic.

You can purchase tickets to the opera, ballet, and symphony from ticket offices nearby for very affordable prices and it is a great way to support the arts and culture of Yerevan. Michael and I were able to get very good seats for the ballet for 6000 AMD (about $14 USD) per person.

Armenia is an incredibly Christian nation and it is an important part of the country’s identity, however, one of the most beautiful sites to see is the Blue Mosque , which isn’t a far walk from the Opera building. This Shia mosque is the only functioning mosque in the city and the courtyard and colourful dome are very much worth seeing.

After admiring the mosque, head to Republic Square , the main square in Yerevan. There is a beautiful fountain situated in front of the Armenian History Museum that, during summer evenings, is lit in different colours. The square is also surrounded by beautiful examples of Armenian neoclassical buildings in Yerevan’s iconic rose-hued stone, making it obvious as to why it is known as the “pink city.”

Now wander over to the Vernissage Market , a large open-air souvenir market that is the perfect place to find something unique to bring home to your friends and family.

Contrary to what you might find in tacky souvenir shops full of mass-produced magnets and pomegranate tchotchkes, here you can get local handicrafts like beautiful chess and backgammon boards, intricate silver jewellery, and much more. You will also be supporting local artisans by keeping traditional practices alive.

Your last stop for your first day in Yerevan should be at the St Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral . Opened in 2001 to mark the 1700th anniversary of Christianity in Armenia (which is believed to be the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion), this is the largest Armenian Apostolic church in the world and is truly spectacular to see.

Round out your sightseeing at Yerevan’s GUM Market , the central market hall of the Armenian capital. Though it isn’t as lively and chaotic as, say, the Green Bazaar in Kutaisi, Georgia , it is still a great way to see what locals eat and to sample some regionally sourced and produced treats while staying away from multinational supermarket chains.

End your first day in one of the great restaurants, cafes, or wine bars on Saryan Street. In Vino is a good choice if you want to choose from an extensive list of both local and international vintages paired with local meats and cheeses.

If you want something a bit more substantial, Tapastan is a great Armenian fusion restaurant. Alternatively, head over to the Cascade and enjoy some surprisingly delicious Thai food from Wine Republic , which was one of our favourite haunts in Yerevan.

If you want to explore more of the capital’s food scene, consider this food tour of Yerevan .

Where to Stay in Yerevan

Skyline Hotel Yerevan – If you’re looking for a well-located hotel to stay at in Yerevan, then this is a good option for you. This locally-run hotel has a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, is located within walking distance of most of Yerevan’s top attractions, and there is an option to add breakfast to your nightly rate.

Avenue ApartHotel – This aparthotel is an excellent option if you want your own place to stay in Yerevan while still having all of the nice amenities of a hotel. They have a range of both suites and rooms on offer along with plenty of perks to make your stay a great one.

Envoy Hostel – This hostel is one of the best places to stay in Yerevan for backpackers, budget and solo travellers alike. They have a range of dorm beds and private rooms available, helpful staff, clean facilities, and good common areas. They also provide day tours to other areas in Armenia at a discounted rate to their hostel guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Yerevan!

Day 2 – Yerevan

Your second day in Yerevan may be a bit more sombre and not quite as busy as the first, but will still give you a great insight into the history of the city and Armenia as a whole.

Begin your day by hopping in a taxi to the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, which is located a bit outside of the city centre. It will take about 10-15 minutes to get there.

The memorial and museum are free to enter and it is extremely well-curated and an incredibly powerful place to visit. When visiting Armenia, it is important to learn about the darkest part of its history where up to 1.5 million people were murdered.

There is also a garden in front of the museum with a tree planted for each foreign official who has officially recognised the atrocities carried out by the Ottomans in 1915-1923 as a genocide. There is also a plaque honouring the countries and the European Union that have officially recognised the Armenian Genocide.

After visiting the memorial and museum, it is likely you will need a drink and it isn’t an easy place to spend time in. Therefore, take a taxi to Dargett Brewpub , a microbrewery which serves up some fantastic craft beers along with some fantastic western-style bar food.

If you can’t decide which kind of beer to order, we recommend ordering a tasting flight. Our favourites included the American Pale Ale, the Vertigo IPA, and the Belgian Tripel.

Those who aren’t beer drinkers may, instead, be interested in a tour and tasting of Ararat Brandy . This is Armenia’s answer to cognac and it is very delicious.

After a beer and some lunch, head to the History Museum of Armenia at Republic Square. Though, as of May 2019, parts of this museum are under construction, it is still a great place to stop by to learn more about the history of Armenia beyond that genocide.

The museum is famous for being home to the world’s oldest shoe, which was found in a cave in the south of the country called Areni-2, or the “bird’s cave.”

After the history museum, if you’re keen to learn more about Yerevan from a local’s perspective, we recommend going on the Yerevan Free Walking Tour , which meets every day at 4 PM in front of the museum.

The tour is about 3 hours long and advance booking is required, however, it is an excellent way to learn about Yerevan’s history and culture from a friendly and knowledgeable local. There is also this paid walking tour if this schedule suits you better.

Finish your day with dinner at one of the restaurants recommended on Day 1.

Day 3 – Yerevan

On your third day, it is time to get out of Yerevan and see some of the surrounding area. There are a number of day trip options from Yerevan that are all fairly easy to organise, whether independently or via organised tour.

Two of the most popular day trips from Yerevan include heading to the nearby town of Garni , home to the ancient Garni Temple – the only surviving pagan temple in the country that’s datesw ot pre-Christian times.

You can also view the bizarre rock formations known as the Symphony of Stones and the beautiful Geghard Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nature lovers will also love seeing the Garni Gorge.

It takes about 30 minutes to get there via marshrutka. You can also visit these places on this day tour or this day tour .

The city of Etchmiadzin (Vagharshapat) is also an easy-to-do independent day trip from Yerevan. This town is known as the “Vatican of Armenia” and is the home of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which is a separate church from the Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican churches.

It is also home to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, which is believed to be the oldest cathedral not just in Armenia, but in the entire world. You can also view the ruins of the Zvartnots Cathedral here.

Bus 203 from the Central Bus Station will get you there and back with limited expense and hassle. Those who would rather visit with a guide will like this guided day tour .

If you’re keen to explore more of Armenia beyond just the areas near to Yerevan, then the easiest way to do this is by organised tour. Some popular places to visit in Armenia as day trips from Yerevan include the Khor Virap Monastery , the Noravank Monastery , the Hin Areni Winery , or even Tatev Monastery .

We were altogether happy with our full-day tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni, and the Bird’s Cave. Different tours depart on different days, so make sure to shop around and see what suits your schedule and what you want to see in Armenia if you’re keen to take a tour.

Day 4 – Dilijan

After spending a busy three days in Yerevan, it’s time to head to the next destination on your Armenia itinerary: Dilijan.

Known as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” Dilijan is located just a 90-minute marshrutka ride from Yerevan, however, it feels like a different world. Dilijan is a great escape from the city and a fantastic place to spend a couple of days enjoying the laid-back mountain atmosphere, going for a few hikes, or taking a trip to some nearby monasteries.

While there aren’t a lot of traditional sites to see or things to do in Dilijan, it is still a great place to visit to see a different side to Armenia and to enjoy the pastoral side of the country. The town itself is delightful, with a lovely lake and plenty of great restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

Plan to spend an hour or two exploring the town itself and then take the rest of your day to go for a hike in Dilijan National Park. The tourist information centre in the town outlines several hiking trails of varying difficulties where you can really get out and enjoy the pristine nature of Armenia regardless of your general fitness level.

If you’d rather stay in Yerevan but still experience the highlights of the next two days of this itinerary, then this day tour and this guided tour will take you from the capital to both Dilijan and Lake Sevan.

Where to Stay in Dilijan

Green Dilijan B&B – This family-run guesthouse is an excellent choice for budget travellers. They have a few rooms available, a cosy common area for guests, and a lovely balcony with views of the mountains. It is kept very clean and the extremely friendly and helpful owners also offer an excellent breakfast for an additional charge.

Chalet Dilijan Hotel – This hotel is a great option if your budget accounts for a bit more than a family-run guesthouse. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available for all types of travellers and breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Dilijan!

Day 5 – Lake Sevan

Using Dilijan as a base, use the fifth day of your time in Armenia to head to beautiful Lake Sevan. As one of the largest alpine lakes in the entirety of the Eurasian continent and certainly the largest in the region, Lake Sevan is a gorgeous place to visit that is steeped in history.

It’s only a little bit over 30 minutes to reach Sevan town from Dilijan – if you don’t have your own car, you can organise an affordable taxi to reach the area. Your accommodation can often arrange this for you.

One of the highlights of visiting this area is the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery, located on a small peninsula just north of the town. Sevan is also a popular resort area for Armenians to holiday in and there are several beaches along the shore of the lake where you can take a dip in the water.

Another thing you must do is try the famed Sevan trout – an Armenian delicacy. There is a lot of trout fished from the lake and lots of restaurants feature the fish prominently on their menus.

If you’re only spending five days exploring Armenia, then you can easily end your time by heading back to Yerevan and flying out or continuing onward to Tbilisi if you’re interested in exploring neighbouring Georgia.

Day 6 – Dilijan to Gyumri

Your sixth day exploring Armenia is going to be a bit of a travel day as you make your way from Dilijan to Armenia’s second-largest city of Gyumri.

There are no direct bus connections between these two towns so you have a couple of options. From Dilijan, hop on a marshurtka to the town of Vanadzor or Spitak and catch a connecting mini bus to Gyumri. Alternatively, you can travel south back to Yerevan and then either grab a marshrutka or, our preference, a train to Gyumri.

The train from Yerevan to Gyumri is especially fun for fans of old Soviet transport as they haven’t been updated in decades and can offer quite an insight into the past. The scenery you will pass is also simply delightful as you travel through the Armenian countryside.

Once you arrive in Gyumri, no matter how you’ve arrived, spend your evening simply getting your bearings and exploring a bit of the city centre before finding a great place for dinner.

Where to Stay in Gyumri

Lind Hostel & Guesthouse – This family-run guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Gyumri if you’re travelling on a budget. They have a range of comfortable rooms available, a fully equipped kitchen for guests to use, and impeccably clean facilities. It is located an easy walk from the city centre and breakfast is available and an affordable additional cost. The owners are also incredibly friendly and ready to help.

Tomu’s Hotel – If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel rather than a guesthouse, then this is an excellent option for you. Centrally located, this hotel has a range of rooms available, helpful staff with 24-hour reception, and a restaurant and bar on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Gyumri!

Day 7 – Gyumri

In the past, Gyumri has been known as both Alexandropol (when it was part of the Russian Empire) and Leninakan (during Soviet times) and was once the largest city in Armenia — at its peak being home to over 500,000 people. However, the city was absolutely devastated by the Spitak Earthquake in 1988, which killed at least 25,000 people.

More than 30 years later, Gyumri is still recovering and rebuilding from the devastation and can seem a bit “rough around the edges,” meaning it isn’t the most popular tourist attraction in Armenia. However, if you want to see how people live in Armenia and venture where few tourists tend to go, Gyumri is an excellent addition to your Armenia itinerary.

Though it is lacking in traditional tourist sites, it is still worth strolling to the Black Fortress , through the Central Park , and enjoying one of the wonderful cafes on Pushkin Street (we recommend Herbs & Honey ).

Depending on if you’re only visiting Armenia or if you’re travelling onwards, you may want to return to Yerevan to fly out of the country. Alternatively, there is a marshrutka that can take you from Gyumri to Tbilisi if you’re heading to Georga or elsewhere in the Caucasus.

Alternatively, if you weren’t able to see some of the sites in the Armenian countryside, you could take this transfer tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi which includes several great stops along the way.

Have More Time?

If you have more than five or seven days in Armenia, there are numerous places that you could add to your itinerary. For one, if you’re keen to spend maybe 10 days in Armenia, it is logical to add the town of Goris and Tatev Monastery to your itinerary.

At Tatev, you can embark on one of the world’s longest cable car journeys and take in some truly gorgeous natural scenery.

You could also opt to spend longer in Yerevan, explore more of the city or go on a couple more day trips or tours from there. If you want to do more hiking in Armenia, then spending longer will allow you to do that as well without sacrificing any of the cultural and historical sites on this itinerary as well.

As an independent traveller, planning a trip to Armenia doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With enough prior research and planning, you are sure to piece together the optimal itinerary for your own travel style!

Are you spending some time in Armenia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to Get From Yerevan to Dilijan & Things To Do In Dilijan

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Armenia to Georgia: Gyumri to Tbilisi & Dilijan to Tbilisi

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Excellent and explained in simple language. Thanks

hi, thank you for this informative piece, im also planning on visiting Georgia, would u happen to have any knowledge of Georgia too tia

Hi Daniel! Yes, we’ve spent quite a bit of time in Georgia and have a lot of information written. You can find everything here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/georgia-travel-guide/

brilliant thank you very much indeed

Hi Maggie, Nice article written on Armenia… I am on my vacation with my family to Georgia in May. Planning 7 days in Georgia and and 5 days in Armrnia.. Is it possible to cover the nb best of Armenia

Thanks for your comment! Yes, you can definitely see some highlights in Armenia in just 5 days 🙂

Hello Maggie, thanks for this post. I am heading to Armenia and Georgia late September/early October. I already have a plan for Georgia, but for Armenia not so much. In particular, there are 4 free days after spending the weekend in Yerevan that I am not sure how best to plan for. I would like to visit Tatev, so really that limits me to the south. What would you recommend? I’m probably going to stick with public transport, renting a car is a possibility but I’m a bit nervous about that when I’m traveling on my own.

Hey David, thanks for your comment! If you want to visit Tatev and you have 4 days to play around with, then I think it could be worth it to head down to Goris. It isn’t necessary to hire a car as Goris is accessible by public transit, it can just be tricky to find up-to-date information online. I would recommend heading to a tourist info centre or asking your accommodation about transit options if you don’t want to self-drive, often they can call and book you a seat as well. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!

Thanks Maggie for the swift reply. I was wondering what else you would recommend between Goris and Yerevan , in that 4 day timeframe? What would be realistic, if only using public transport? At the end of the 4th day I’d need to be back in Yerevan, for a tour that takes me through to Georgia that starts the following day (with Envoy Hostel).

Realistically, if you’re relying on only public transport, I would recommend staying one extra day in Yerevan and doing a day tour to some attractions in Southern Armenia (Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni, etc) and then taking three days for your Goris/Tatev leg. It can be really hard to visit those attractions independently if you don’t have your own vehicle and it’s also not very easy to break up the journey between Yerevan and Goris.

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Best of Armenia , Itineraries & Road Trips

2 incredible armenia itinerary options for first-time visitors.

This guide is all about planning the perfect Armenia itinerary for your trip! We offer two options for how to best spend 3, 6, or 7 days in Armenia regardless of what your travel style is!

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

Top Experiences and Tours In Armenia:

• Day trip to Khor Virap, Areni Winery and Noravank Monastery (from $34)
• Armenia: Private Tour to Khor Virap Monastery (from $37)
• Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin (from $90)
• From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour (from $39)

Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander (a luxury in Yerevan)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in Yerevan)
• 14th Floor (mid-range in Yerevan)
• Grand Hostel (budget in Yerevan)

Looking for the best way to get around Armenia? Click here to check rental car rates for Armenia!

Let us know if you have any questions at the end or have any tips for how to create an optimal itinerary for Armenia!

Armenia is a small, beautiful country, but it’s not necessarily easy to navigate because of its mountainous landscape and poorly developed infrastructure.

Though it’s getting better each year, it’s still not quite perfect.

We have traveled the country extensively and on every trip, we discover new and amazing places to visit in Armenia , but we also understand that for first-time visitors it can be quite difficult to figure out where to go and what to see in Armenia.

For now, we have created two types of itineraries, where we have tried to include sights for history and culture lovers as well as nature lovers as there is so much to see in Armenia.

The best thing about these itineraries is that you can easily change sights, dates, and locations to make them suitable to your needs and interests, especially if you have a rental car or are booking a tour.

Each version of the itinerary will have accommodation options in the particular region where you can stay as well as tours that you can take to see multiple sights in a short period of time.

Armenia Itinerary Suggestions Overview

Here is a quick glimpse at our two itinerary suggestions for Armenia:

Cultural Heritage Itinerary

• Day 1: Khor Virap, Areni-1 Cave, Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery
• Day 2: Temple of Garni, Geghard Monastery
• Day 3: Yerevan

Day 4: Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots Cathedral, Voskevaz Winery

• Day 5: Lake Sevan, Dilijan National Park, Haghartsin Monastery

Day 6: Odzun, Horomayri Monastery, Ardvi, Lori Berd

• Day 7: Sanahin Monastery, Haghpat Monastery

Nature and Adventure Itinerary

• Day 1: Dilijan National Park, Parz Lake, Gosh Lake
• Day 2: Rafting in Armenia, Lori Berd, Stepanavan Dendropark
• Day 3: Yerevan, Hrazdan Gorge, Yerevan Zipline

Day 4: Temple of Garni, Azat Gorge, Symphony of Stones

• Day 5: Areni-1 Cave, Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery

Day 6: Hell’s Canyon

• Day 7: Yerevan

Armenia Itinerary #1: Cultural Heritage

To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the ‘Star’ icon next to the map name. You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to ‘Your Places’.

Day 1: Khor Virap, Areni-1 Cave, Noravank, Tatev

Four amazing and must-visit places in Armenia are Khor Virap Monastery , Noravank Monastery, Tatev Monastery, and Areni-1 cave.

They are all relatively close together, so it’s a great opportunity to see all four of them in one day.

Each of these sites has a unique history and value to the Armenian story and we definitely recommend visiting all of them, as many people have never seen such places in their life.

Approximate driving time: 4-5 hours

Khor Virap Monastery

One of the biggest symbols of Christianity in Armenia is Khor Virap Monastery , but it’s known for more than just being the biggest heritage of the first Christian nation in the world.

Khor Virap is located in a gorgeous location in the Ararat valley with a view of the iconic mountain Ararat. Getting to Khor Virap from Yerevan is quite easy, too.

Though man-made, this facility is in harmony with nature. When the sky is not cloudy, you can see an unbelievably beautiful view of Mt. Ararat and the valley and discover Khor Virap and its history.

Khor Virap means “deep dungeon” because, under the church, there is a hole where Gregory the Illuminator was dropped to die.

He survived and later brought Christianity to Armenia in 301, which made Armenia the first Christian nation.

Khor Virap is located in Ararat province .

Areni-1 Cave Complex

Your next stop will be the wine village of Areni, where the world’s oldest winery in Areni-1 Cave was discovered nearby.

The impressive and ancient winery was discovered in 2008 and is estimated to be 6100 years old, dating to the Early Bronze Age.

You will witness the world’s oldest winery inside of the cave where many clay pots are buried in the soil that still have remains of grapes and wine.

Areni is in general known to be the wine center of Armenia. Each year in Areni village, there is a wine festival where thousands of people taste and enjoy hundreds of wines.

Also in the caves, the world’s oldest leather shoe was discovered, dated to be 5,500 years old. Right now, it is on display at the History Museum of Armenia.

Noravank Monastery

Approximately 20 minutes past Areni village is Noravank Monastery which is situated among the red-colored mountains.

Noravank Monastery is the perfect combination for travelers who want to see stunning nature and historical sites.

The monastery was founded in the 12th-century in a very significant location because to reach the monastery, you need to drive through a narrow canyon surrounded by high rocks.

Tatev Monastery

If you head even further south down into Syunik, you will end up at Tatev Monastery , another significant sight in Armenia.

Tatev Monastery is not far from the town of Goris (we give accommodation options for there below) and is renowned for its remote location that is best reached by taking the Wings of Tatev cable car.

Day 1 Tour Option

• Khor Virap, Noravank, & Areni Winery Day Trip

Day 1 Hotel Options

• Budget: Tatev Traditional Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Hotel Mira
• Luxury: Hotel Mirhav

Day 2: Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery

Temple of garni.

The Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery are very close to Yerevan, making it a very popular day trip for travelers. Both sites are stunning and have centuries of history from Pagan Armenia to Christian Armenia.

Garni Temple is a rare Pagan temple that still exists in the region. It is a must-visit place for ancient history lovers.

Located only 40 minutes away from Yerevan in the Kotayk region among mountains and gorges, Garni village has a rich history with many things to do and to see.

Garni Hellenistic Temple was built in the 1st century AD. It used to be a kind summer residence dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian Pagan God of light and sun.

The temple facility has other historical artifacts to explore, like antique baths and stone arts. The view of the gorge is also something that no one should miss out on seeing.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is another must-see important historical and religious monument located deep in the mountains.

On the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, this monastery has a very unique architecture and location because a large part of the monastery is actually built into the huge rock face. The monastery was founded in the 4th-century.

This is a place where the human minds and creativity meet nature, as you can see from the harmonious collaboration between nature and architecture.

Geghard in Armenian means “spear” because for centuries the spear that Jesus Christ was wounded with was brought to Armenia and kept at Geghard Monastery until it was later moved to the Holy Etchmiadzin.

Day 2 Tour Option

• Half-day tour to Garni and Geghard from Yerevan

Day 2 Hotel Options

• Budget: Guest House Garni Resthouse
• Mid-range: Chez Yvette
• Luxury: Hotel Garni 7 Qar

Day 3: Discover Yerevan

Take a day and explore Yerevan – the beautiful and charming capital built from pink volcanic tuff, which gives the city a unique and beautiful look.

Yerevan is more than 2,800 years old and considered one of the oldest capitals in the world, being even 29 years older than Rome!

There are many sites in the city to see like the Cascades Complex, the Opera House, Republic Square, and many others.

Yerevan has a great cafe culture throughout the city, but especially around the Cascades and Saryan wine street .

You can discover small charming vineyards and cafes where you can enjoy fantastic local wine and food.

Day 3 Tour Option

• Yerevan: City Tour with Brandy Tasting and Carpet Weaving

Day 3 Hotel Options

• Budget: Grand Hostel
• Mid-Range: Daniel Boutique Hotel  
• Luxury: The Alexander  

Other very close day trip locations from Yerevan are the Holy City of Etchmiadzin, Zvartnots Cathedral ruins, and Voskevaz winery.

All of the locations are close to each other and located in one region, Armavir. Armavir is known for its green valleys and being home to some of the oldest churches in the world.

Etchmiadzin

Known also as the Holy City of Etchmiadzin , it is the center of Christianity of Armenia because it has one of the oldest churches in both Armenia and the world.

The small city of Etchmiadzin is located only 20 km away from Yerevan and has more than 2,000 years of history.

It has more than one UNESCO World Heritage Site, like Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church, and Zvartnots Cathedral ruins.

Etchmiadzin is a charming city where you can visit nice museums and enjoy food in local restaurants .

Zvartnots Cathedral

Right before entering Etchmiadzin city, on the right side of the highway, you will find beautiful gates decorated with stone statues and ornaments.

This is the main entrance to the ancient Zvartnots Cathedral ruins.

You can take a walk down a long path lined with apricot and cherry trees, or enter the parking lot by car.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was erected in the 7th-century AD, a rare architectural style for that time.

It was destroyed by a strong earthquake in the 10th-century AD. There are still some preserved ruins showcasing the beauty and complicated architecture of the facility.

The backdrop of Zvartnots Cathedral is the beautiful Ararat mountain. Close to the ruins, there is a museum where you can learn more about the construction and the sight’s history.

• Working hours: 10:00-17:00 Monday closed
• Fee: 700 AMD + 100 AMD for parking

Etchmiadzin Cathedral

One of the oldest Christian churches in the world, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral complex is located in the center of the city. It is also known as the Armenian Vatican.

As the first Christian nation, Armenia has many old churches, but Etchmiadzin Cathedral is the oldest. It was built in 301 AD, the year Armenia adopted Christianity as its state religion.

The area around the Cathedral has a beautiful garden with flowers and trees, an ancient graveyard, and one of the oldest restaurants in the Caucasus.

Voskevaz Winery

Take your time and drive to Voskevaz Winery , which resembles a fairytale castle and is located only 30 minutes away from Echmiadzin in the Aragatsotn region .

It is a great place to finish up a day of exploration with a glass of wine and a tour to see where and how it is made.

The factory was founded in 1932 and located a couple of kilometers from Kasakh Gorge.

It is near where the ruins of Badals Church are and where clay amphoras for winemaking were discovered buried in the soil. Click here for more.

Day 4 Tour Option

• Khor Virap, Etchmiadzin, and Zvartnots tour from Yerevan

Day 5: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Haghartsin Monastery

After returning to Yerevan on the 5th day, you should head to the Blue Pearl of Armenia- Lake Sevan .

It is known for its island monastery, beaches, and lakeside restaurant, as well as the green heart of Armenia- Dilijan and Haghartsin Monastery , located nearby.

All these locations are located approximately 1-2 hours away from Yerevan and are easily accessible and the perfect day trips from Yerevan .

One of the most beautiful places in Armenia is definitely Lake Sevan , known as the Blue Pearl of Armenia. Sevan is the biggest lake in the Caucasus. Located in the Gegharkunik region, it is only an hour away from Yerevan.

From the highway, you can turn right and drive to Sevan Island, which is now a peninsula after the water level went down over the last 100 years.

There are two beautiful churches on the peninsula, located at the top of the island and accessible by a staircase

At the top, you will get a mesmerizing view of the lake and mountains. You can also visit the Sevanavank Monastery complex, founded in 874 AD.

Click here to read more about getting to Lake Sevan from Yerevan .

Day 5 Tour Option

• Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin

Day 5 Hotel Options

• Budget: Kavkazski Dvor
• Mid-Range: Hover Boutique
• Luxury: Four Seasons Guest House Dilijan

Lori region is rich with history and heritage and many sights are located in the most obscure and mind-blowing locations.

We recommend you visit one of the country’s northernmost regions, Lori, and discover Odzun village surrounded by mountains.

You will also have a chance to see the mysterious Horomayri Monastery located in the dramatic Debed Gorge, Ardvi village, and the ancient Lori Fortress (Lori Berd).

Odzun is the largest village in Lori. It has a rich heritage and is located almost on the edge of Debed Gorge.

The jewel of the village is the Odzun Church, one of the earliest Christian churches in Armenia after Etchmiadzin Cathedral.

Horomayri Church

The fascinating 12th-century Horomayri Monastery ruins are located in Debed Gorge.

You will need to hike to visit this spot, but you also can observe it at a distance from the edge of the gorge.

Horomayri Monastery is located approximately 1 km away from Odzun village and the viewpoint of the gorge and the church is located behind the three small churches right on the edge of Debed gorge.

Ardvi , a little village with a charming church and beautiful views, is located 15 minutes away from Odzun village.

Ardvi has a beautiful little church located at the end of the village surrounded by huge rocks, next to an ancient graveyard with khachkars.

The village has a unique legend: a giant snake attacked the village, but later St. Hovhannes Odznetsi turned it into a stone.

From his body, which is visible in the big rock, healing water comes out. It’s called “Odzi port,’’ in reference to the water appearing to come from the snake’s belly button.

Lori Fortress (Lori Berd)

Another must-see of the Lori region is Lori Berd , also known as Lori Fortress .

It is an 11th-century fortress built on the edge of the crossroads of the Urut and Dzoraget Gorges, at an elevation of 1379m. It once was the capital of the Tashir-Dzoraget kingdom.

The ticket price is 1400 AMD.

Day 6 Tour Option

• Odzun, Akhtala and UNESCO Heritage Sites Tour

Day 6 Hotel Options

• Budget: Odzun RG
• Mid-range: Olya Guesthouse   

Day 7: Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries

On your final day before returning to Yerevan, we suggest visiting two unbelievably unique monasteries which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sanahin Monastery and Haghpat Monastery are not only points of interest in the Lori region but also in all of Armenia because of its architectural and spiritual values and heritage.

Both sites are located on plateaus and are about 15km from each other.

Sanahin and Haghpat Monasteries

Both monasteries are a mix of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture and Caucasian traditional architecture from around the 10th-13th centuries.

Sanahin means ‘’this one is older than that one’’ because Sanahin Monastery (10th century) is a little bit older than the Haghpat Monastery (also from the 10th century).

Both monasteries are fascinating places that are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After visiting Sanahin Monastery Complex and Haghpat Monastery you can return to Yerevan as your final day.

If you are planning to spend more days in Armenia, there are many other places you can visit.

Day 7 Tour Option

• Armenia: Private Tour to Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries

Armenia Itinerary #2: Nature and Activities

To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the ‘Star’ icon next to the map name.

You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to ‘Your Places’.

Day 1: Dilijan, Parz Lake, Gosh Lake

Your first day can start from Dilijan, located in the Tavush region with lush green forests, mountain lakes, and many hiking trails.

If you have time, Dilijan can definitely occupy you for more than one day. It’s a great location to start discovering Armenia .

You can camp next to Gosh Lake located in the mountains, discover Dilijan with its old districts, and hike in the Dilijan National Park and the surrounding areas.

Dilijan National Park

Dilijan will surprise you with its lush, forested mountains, hiking trails, and delicious local Armenian cuisine .

If you decide to make Dilijan your base in Armenia, you will have easy access to beautiful nature.

You will be able to visit places like Parz and Gosh Lakes, which are located only 15 minutes away from the city center by car.

Gosh Lake’s road is more for 4WD/SUVs or hikers, while Parz Lake is much more accessible and can be driven to.

For thrill-seekers, there is an opportunity to participate in adventure activities at VereV Rope Park in Dilijan.

Dilijan National Park is a large forest with many rare trees, plants, and wild animals such as foxes, brown bears, red deer, and more.

There are plenty of things to discover in Dilijan if you wish to stay more than one day.

Day 2: Rafting, Lori Berd, Stepanavan Dendropark

On your second day, you’ll find a mixture of activities, starting with rafting on the powerful Debed River in Lori.

Then visit one of the beautiful fortresses in Lori, located on the edge of the gorge. Next, get lost in the lush green Stepanavan Dendropark, and finally, you will head back to Yerevan to get ready for other upcoming adventures.

Rafting in Armenia

If you love extreme sports and are not afraid to get wet, then rafting in the Debed River is one heck of a fun way to start your day.

The experienced guides will explain how to raft, so this is an activity for all skill levels.

The river goes for many kilometers and is surrounded by mountains and large rocks nestled in dense greenery.

It is a wild time and you’re sure to meet some new people! Click here to learn more!

Lori Berd (Lori Fortress)

The road to Lori Fortress is no less impressive; the fortress itself passes through Stepanavan town crossing the impressive huge bridge where the view to the gorge is amazing and the scenery gorgeous.

As you get closer, you will be able to see the ancient fortress on the edge of the massive gorge.

Stepanavan Dendropark

The last place to visit before going back to Yerevan is the large green space that is the Stepanavan Dendropark.

Stepanavan Dendropark was established in 1931 by Edmund Leonowicz who was a Polish engineer.

The space is 35 hectares with 500 species of plants and trees from all around the world.

Stroll up and down the forested paths to the flower gardens, greenhouses, and river. Relax and feel the atmosphere of nature preserved for almost a hundred years.

Don’t forget to say hi to and pet the adorable blind guide dog, Mike!

• 1-day Horseback Riding in the Lush Region of Lori

Day 3:  Yerevan, Hrazdan Gorge, Zipline

On the third day, you can fully enjoy Yerevan.

Walk around and discover both its hidden and famous sights, learn the history of the ancient city, and of course, enjoy the Yerevan evening in hip cafes and bars.

Also, during the day, don’t miss out on the opportunity to fly over the Hrazdan Gorge with Yerevan Zipline, the longest zipline in Armenia that goes under a massive bridge.

Yerevan Cafes and Bars

Yerevan has a burgeoning scene of new, hip cafes and bars, which mixes well with the existing sidewalk cafe lifestyle.

You can also find some amazing coffee in Yerevan these days.

Visit places like Kong, Epicure, Mamba, In Vino, and Mirzoyan Library and enjoy Yerevan’s colorful cafes and bar life where you can meet new and interesting people.

Yerevan Zipline

The Yerevan Zipline is fun and full of adrenaline all in one place that will allow you to fly over the beautiful Hrazdan Gorge and cross under the Davtashen bridge.

The zipline has two lines, which means you will be able to fly twice. The longest line is 870 meters long.

The professional staff will guide you until the end of your flight and will teach you the basic knowledge of how to zip 150km/h down to the gorge.

• Working hours: All week  10:30 – 19:30
• Ticket fee: 14,000 AMD

• The Magic and Secrets of Yerevan Walking Tour

On day four, you will go to the Kotayk region, which is next to Yerevan, and visit Garni village, the Azat Gorge, and the Symphony of Stones, all amazing natural wonders.

Symphony of Stones

The Symphony of Stones is a hexagonal and pentagonal stone column natural monument, which is over 70m tall.

The basalt columns are visible from all parts of the gorge and resemble organ pipes.

After visiting Garni Temple, you can hike down to Azar Gorge directly from the left side of the entrance of the temple and observe the Symphony of Stones yourself.

If you have extra time, check out Azat Reservoir nearby!

• From Yerevan: 2-Day Garni, Geghard & Azhdahak Hiking Tour

Day 4 Hotel Options

• Budget: Guest House Garni

Day 5: Areni-1 Cave, Noravank and Tatev Monasteries

The next day, you will have a bit of a road trip to the southern wonders of Armenia in the Vayots Dzor and Syunik regions.

The first stop is the Areni-1 Cave where, according to archeological discoveries, wine was first made.

After visiting the cave, visit the nearby Noravank Monastery which will occupy you for another couple of hours.

Your final adventure for Day 5 should definitely be the cable tramway called the “Wings of Tatev,” which takes you to the iconic Tatev Monastery.

This is the longest reversible aerial tramway i n the world at almost 6 km in length. Getting to Tatev from Yerevan is easy if you’d like to start that leg first.

• Private Tour: Tatev, Ropeway, Khndzoresk, & Areni Winary
• Budget: Tatev Traditional guesthouse

We recommend that Day 6 be a day where you do something very adventurous, like canyoning in a place called Hell’s Canyon.

It will take all day to do this activity so be ready to give it one full day.

The tour company you can go with will take you to the canyon and then bring you back to Yerevan at the end of the day.

Day 7: Back to Yerevan

On the last day, start making your way back to Yerevan.

You can make some worthwhile stops at places like the beautiful Shaki Waterfall , Areni-1 Cave (again), Khor Virap, and Karahunj along the way.

We hope that you enjoyed these Armenia itinerary options and please let us know if you have any questions or additional recommendations! Thanks!

Pin this Itinerary for Armenia

1 thoughts on “ 2 Incredible Armenia Itinerary Options for First-Time Visitors ”

Only in the planning stages of doing a trip though Georgia, Artsakh, Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran. If one was to spend 3 weeks or more in Armenia, what route would you suggest? We would have 4 to 6 months in total. Any suggestions for time frame for the other countries?

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Best places to visit in Armenia

Armenia, a country of volcanic light, with its basalt mountains, its lakes, canyons, waterfalls, ancient churches and colourful culture, holds many different attractions. All but an island, perched on the heights of Lesser Caucasus, it boasts an incredible heritage, suited to the history of the first country to have adopted Christianity, at the beginning of the Fourth Century.

Travelling through Armenia from top to bottom, you'll discover picturesque gorges and places filled with incredible spirituality. Remote monasteries, whether still occupied or in ruins, tell the stories of the first hermits. At Geghard, Sanahin or Noravank, the ancient Armenians built their temples in harmony with the mountainous countryside, using a plain but elegant style of architecture which reaches its pinnacle with Etchmiadzin, the Armenian Vatican. This country also offers magnificent civil architectural ruins: the forts of Smbat and Amberd or the Selim caravan are all sights worth seeing.

Then there's the environment itself: the volcanic summit of Mont Aragats, the lakes of Sevan , Akna or Kari, the basalt canyon of the Azat river, the verdant mountains of Vayots Dzor : all beautiful places where you can revel in the wide open spaces, from rocky, moon-like plateaus to the temperate forests. And let's not forget the snowy peaks of Mont Ararat , towering over the Erevan plain...

As for Erevan , the lively capital, it distills Armenia down to its essence, with its cafe and restaurant culture, where you can sample the delicious cuisine; its sense of hospitality; its friendliness; its very Oriental music; its traditions and museums, where you can appreciate the creativity of the Armenian artists... At once Western and Eastern, Christian and post-Soviet, Armenia is a civilisation fully worth exploring in its own right, with its contrasts and contradictions.

Best time to visit Armenia

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How is the weather condition in December of Armenia? - Armenia Forum

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How is the weather condition in December of Armenia?

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Is it a good time to visit Armenia in December? What is the currency they use? Any paces of interests in Armenia that we must visit? Is there any festival in Armenia in December?

For main attractions, Armenia is considered to be a museum under the open air. Garni hellenic temple, Geghard rock carved monastery, Lake Sevan, ancient monasteries and churches built back in 6-13 centuries...

We use our national currency here, called Dram (AMD).

Should you have any questions, I will be more than glad to provide more details and suggest places ro visit

Hi Aram K. Thank you very much for your generous, precious and precise information. I like to go to places during cold weather. I'll decide and let you know if I will be going to Armenia as I have other places to think of.

You are welcome, Mattew. Let me know if you need further information about Armenia.

Hi Aram K. I will should I decide to come to Armenia. Thank you very much for your guidance.

Hi. Do Singaporeans need any visa to go to Armenia? Please advise.

Singapore passport holders are eligible for VOA in Armenia. Visitors traveling as tourists can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 120 days at a cost of AMD 15,000.

Hi Schonefeld. Thank you very much for your valuable and vital information. It's good to know all these things. May I know what is the exchange rate of 1 USD to AMD?

MatthewJamesTan67, you are most welcome.

I honestly have no idea and , but the currency converter can tell you, for sure:

http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/

Hi Schonefeld. Thank you very much. I managed to use currency converter.

1. 1 USD =485.470AMD

2. 1 SGD =347.411AMD

This is what I got at this moment. it's around S$45.00 to get 120 Days of VOA in Armenia.

you are most welcome! Any time.,

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