Things To Do
in Armenia
Armenia is a landlocked country in the South Caucasus known for its ancient monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and resilient culture. Its capital, Yerevan, blends grand Soviet-era architecture with a lively contemporary café scene. The country sits in a highland basin with volcanic mountains, red tuff cliffs, and glistening lakes that mirror the sky.
Armenians are renowned for hospitality, rich folklore, and a cuisine that centers on bread, grilled meats, and seasonal produce.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the capital city of Yerevan and settle into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Armenian pastries and coffee. Take your first stroll through Republic Square, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning Soviet-era architecture.
Visit the History Museum of Armenia to gain insights into the country's rich heritage. After exploring the museum, wander down the Cascade Complex, an impressive staircase adorned with art and gardens. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can try authentic Armenian dishes like khorovats (barbecue).
As the sun sets, head to the city’s iconic Opera House for a performance or simply to admire its architecture. Dine at a traditional Armenian restaurant and indulge in local wines. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, perhaps stopping at an open-air café for dessert.
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, where you can reflect on the history and resilience of the Armenian people. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Yerevan and visit the Vernissage flea market, known for its local crafts and art. Enjoy a refreshing coffee at one of the many cafes overlooking the lively streets.
Spend the afternoon visiting the Matenadaran, a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts and books. Then, head to the Republic Square to enjoy lunch at a rooftop restaurant with sweeping views of the city. Explore the surrounding area on foot, taking in the beautiful fountains and public art.
As the evening approaches, enjoy a performance of traditional Armenian folk music or dance at a local theater. Treat yourself to dinner at a modern Armenian restaurant, celebrating contemporary twists on classic dishes. Wind down at a wine bar, where you can sample some of Armenia’s famous brandy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧁Bakery item | $0.5-2 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic sites and UNESCO-listed monasteries
- Warm hospitality and distinctive cuisine
- Stunning landscapes from lakes to high mountains
- Walkable city centers with café culture
- Occasional political sensitivity in discussions
- Rugged mountain roads in rural areas can be challenging
- Limited English in some rural spots; plan ahead
- "Barev" - Hello
- "Shnorhakal em" - Thank you
- "Voghormutyun" - Please
- "Ayo" - Yes
- "Voch" - No
Places to Visit in Armenia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic fountain displays, vibrant night lighting, and silhouettes of the Government Building create compelling architectural photos.
Massive basalt columns set against deep green meadows and a dramatic gorge offering grand landscape photography opportunities.
Carved into the rock with intricate façade details and a sense of ancient spiritual atmosphere, excellent for atmospheric shots.
Vast blue expanse and the silhouette of Sevanavank on the headland provide wide-angle lake views and sunset photography.
Historic monastery perched near fields with a distant view of Mount Ararat, perfect for sunrise or golden hour shots.
Food in Armenia
Armenia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Armenian grilled meat skewers marinated and cooked over coals; best enjoyed at taverns and outdoor grills.
Must-Try!
Stuffed grape leaves or vegetables filled with spiced meat and rice, common in home cooking and taverns.
Thin flatbread baked in a traditional tandoor; a staple at every meal and often shared around the table.
Slow-cooked wheat porridge with meat and butter, a comforting dish especially in cooler months.
Sweet pastry sprinkled with sugar or nuts, enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Armenian dumplings stuffed with meat, boiled or fried and served with yogurt or tomato sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air market in the city center offering crafts, textiles, and light snacks—great for tasting street-friendly bites and picking up souvenirs.
A bustling hub for fresh produce, dairy, bread, and ready-to-eat Armenian specialties—ideal for immersive, local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Armenians are warm and hospitable; a handshake is common, and guests often receive tea or coffee. A modest, respectful demeanor is appreciated in formal settings.
Dress modestly for churches and monasteries; remove hats indoors in many traditional settings and ask before taking photos of people.
If visiting a home, a small gift or flowers is appropriate; avoid overbearing topics with strangers and politics in casual conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Armenia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of about 5-10% is customary if service is not included. Round up for small errands or taxi rides if you’re pleased with service.
Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in cities; cash (Armenian dram) is widely used in rural areas and small shops. ATMs are readily available in Yerevan and major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming almond trees and clear skies; best for hiking and city photography.
Warm to hot days with occasional cool evenings; great for lake and highland excursions, but carry water and sun protection.
Crimson and gold foliage, cooler days, and comfortable trekking conditions; ideal for scenic drives and photography.
Cold, with occasional snow; best for northern monasteries, icy landscapes, and cozy indoor dining, but roads can be slick.
Armenia at Night
Hiking in Armenia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with streams and scenic viewpoints in a lush, protected area.
Rugged canyon routes that offer dramatic rock formations and river crossings.
Gentle hikes along the water with panoramic lake views and easy access to Sevanavank.
Airports
How to reach Armenia by plane.
Main international gateway to Armenia, located near Yerevan; easy taxi or shuttle connections into the city.
Regional airport serving northern Armenia with occasional international connections and domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group and national identity with a strong sense of cultural continuity.
A historic minority community contributing to the cultural mosaic.
A legacy of historical ties with varied cultural influences in urban centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across the country with local clubs and national team events drawing crowds.
A celebrated intellectual sport with a strong tradition and famous Armenian grandmasters.
Historic and modern participation at local clubs and national teams.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Armenian dishes can be adapted or prepared without meat; look for vegetable stews, cheese dishes, stuffed vegetables, and bread-centric plates. Ask for dairy-free yogurt or olive oil-based sauces where needed.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Armenia.