Welcome to Armenia, a beautiful and fascinating country in the South Caucasus region, rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Armenia or simply want to know more about this incredible country, you have come to the right place. We have put together a comprehensive guide of the best things to do in Armenia, from exploring ancient monasteries to hiking in the mountains, tasting delicious cuisine, and experiencing the vibrant local culture.
Explore the ancient monasteries
Armenia has some of the world’s most magnificent and historic monasteries, many of which are early Christian. In Syunik’s southeast, the Tatev Monastery is remarkable. A cable car takes visitors to the monastery, which overlooks the Vorotan River Gorge on a steep peak.
UNESCO World Heritage Site Geghard Monastery, cut into a mountain in the 4th century, is another must-see. Concerts and performances are held at the monastery due to its natural acoustics and exquisite carvings and frescoes.
Hike in the mountains
Armenia has many beautiful hiking trails with wonderful views of the landscape. One of the most popular walks is Mount Aragats, which ascends Armenia’s highest peak at over 4,000 meters. With beautiful views, the climb is difficult yet rewarding.
Visit Dilijan National Park in northeastern Tavush for a more relaxed hike. All fitness levels can enjoy the park’s easy to moderate pathways. The routes pass waterfalls, streams, and beautiful forests with breathtaking mountain views.
Taste delicious Armenian cuisine
Armenian cuisine has a wide variety of tasty meals. One of the most popular dishes is khorovats, grilled meat marinated in herbs and spices and cooked over an open flame. Another must-try is dolma, grape leaves packed with rice, meat, and seasonings.
Try gata, a flaky Armenian pastry filled with nuts and sugar, for dessert. Cognac, Armenia’s national drink, must be sampled on a visit. Armenian cognac is rich and sophisticated, sure to impress even the most discerning aficionados.
Experience the vibrant local culture
Armenia has many festivals, events, and traditions that are celebrated year-round. One of the most famous events is the Yerevan Wine Days festival, which takes place in May and allows visitors to taste a variety of Armenian wines, enjoy live music and entertainment, and learn about the country’s winemaking traditions.
Another must-see is Yerevan’s Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial. The museum honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian genocide, which occurred during World War I.
Soaking Up the Natural Beauty of Lake Sevan
Armenia’s Lake Sevan is one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes. Visitors to Armenia should stop by the lake to rest and enjoy the scenery. The pristine, blue waters of the lake are flanked by majestic mountains at 1,900 meters above sea level.
The Sevanavank Monastery on a peninsula in Lake Sevan is a renowned destination. The 9th-century monastery is an Armenian architectural masterpiece. The historic location was a Soviet military base, and visitors can learn about its rich past. Lake Sevan offers several activities outside the Sevanavank Monastery. Swim in the lake’s lovely waters or rent a boat to explore the area. The lake has trout and whitefish, making fishing a popular sport. The nearby mountains provide various hiking trails with spectacular lake and landscape views.
Explore the capital city of Yerevan
Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, is a dynamic city full of history, culture, and architecture. Some of the country’s most stunning buildings and monuments are in the 2,800-year-old metropolis. The city’s colorful streets and bustling marketplaces are flanked by beautiful mountains in the Ararat Valley. Republic Square, with its singing fountains, is a Yerevan must-see. Locals and tourists love the fountains’ magnificent light show and music. The National Gallery and Armenian History Museum are situated in the square.
The Cascade complex, a large stairway with sculptures and paintings, is another Yerevan attraction. The modern art museum exhibits notable international painters. Climb the stairs to the top of the complex for breathtaking city and mountain vistas.Yerevan’s Vernissage market is another must-see. The bazaar sells Armenian goods and handicrafts. Every day, the market sells unusual presents for friends and family back home. The city’s restaurants and cafes serve typical Armenian food.
Discover the ancient history of Armenia
Armenia has many festivals, events, and traditions that are celebrated year-round. One of the most famous events is the Yerevan Wine Days festival, which takes place in May and allows visitors to taste a variety of Armenian wines, enjoy live music and entertainment, and learn about the country’s winemaking traditions.
Another must-see is Yerevan’s Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial. The museum honors the victims and survivors of the Armenian genocide, which occurred during World War I.
Visit the medieval town of Dilijan
Dilijan, an Armenian ancient town in Tavush, is a hidden gem. Dilijan is known as Armenia’s “Little Switzerland” for its gorgeous scenery, architecture, and active culture. Dilijan National Park offers hiking routes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and woods.
The 10th-century Haghartsin Monastery is a Dilijan highlight. One of Armenia’s most prominent religious sites, the monastery has elaborate stone carvings and architecture. Another must-see is the Old Dilijan Complex, which showcases traditional Armenian living in restored and conserved buildings. Dilijan’s lively culture complements its ancient sites. The town’s art galleries, traditional music and dance events, and restaurants and cafes provide local food.
Attend the Apricot Festival
Armenia has the Apricot Festival in July to promote its famous fruit. This event celebrates Armenian culture, cuisine, and traditions and is a terrific chance to explore the country’s lively and unique past. The Apricot Festival has events for all ages. The apricot market sells jams, jellies, and liqueurs made from apricots and is a major attraction. Visitors can also see cookery demos using apricots to make traditional Armenian cuisine.
The Apricot Festival showcases Armenia’s rich culture through music and dance as well as food. Visitors can watch traditional Armenian dancers perform elaborate routines or listen to local musicians play ancient Armenian instruments like the duduk and zurna. Armenia’s distinct culture and wonderful food may be enjoyed at the Apricot Festival. The Apricot Festival is a must-see for foodies, music lovers, and those seeking a unique experience.
Skiing and Snowboarding at the Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort
Tsaghkadzor, in Armenia’s Kotayk area, offers winter adventures. This lovely village has a prominent ski resort with slopes and paths for all skill levels. Restaurants, pubs, and spas make the resort a perfect winter retreat.
The Haghartsin Monastery, a 13th-century complex of churches, chapels, and other buildings, is a major Dilijan site. The monastery is famous for its 13th- and 14th-century murals and architecture. Visitors can visit the complex and learn about the Armenian Church’s influence on culture. The Old Dilijan Complex, a collection of old Armenian structures restored to their former glory, is another prominent Dilijan destination. The complex’s residences, workshops, and stores exhibit the region’s architecture. The complex’s cafes and restaurants serve local food and teach visitors about Armenian crafts including ceramics and weaving.
Conclusion
Tsaghkadzor, in Armenia’s Kotayk area, offers winter adventures. This lovely village has a prominent ski resort with slopes and paths for all skill levels. Restaurants, pubs, and spas make the resort a perfect winter retreat. The Haghartsin Monastery, a 13th-century complex of churches, chapels, and other buildings, is a major Dilijan site. The monastery is famous for its 13th- and 14th-century murals and architecture. Visitors can visit the complex and learn about the Armenian Church’s influence on culture.
The Old Dilijan Complex, a collection of old Armenian structures restored to their former glory, is another prominent Dilijan destination. The complex’s residences, workshops, and stores exhibit the region’s architecture. The complex’s cafes and restaurants serve local food and teach visitors about Armenian crafts including ceramics and weaving.
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