Things To Do
in Armenia
Armenia is a landlocked country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient history, and stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. As one of the oldest civilizations, it boasts numerous historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed monasteries and churches that reflect its deep-rooted Christian heritage.
Despite its small size, Armenia has a vibrant cultural life, distinguished by its unique music, traditional dances, and delicious cuisine, which blends influences from both the East and West.
- "Barev" - Hello
- "Shnorhakalutyun" - Thank you
- "Tsnund" - Goodbye
- "Voch inch" - You're welcome
- "Bari gisher" - Good night
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Republic Square and its iconic fountains. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes before heading to the History Museum of Armenia.
Take a stroll along Northern Avenue, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. Visit the Cascade Complex for art exhibits and great views of Mount Ararat.
End your day at the Armenian Genocide Memorial for reflection. Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant with local dishes.
Drive to Dilijan National Park and enjoy a refreshing hike surrounded by lush greenery. Visit the quaint town of Dilijan and explore its unique architecture.
Have a picnic in the park or try a local eatery for lunch. Continue your day with a visit to Haghartsin Monastery, an ancient complex nestled in the woods.
Relax by Lake Parz and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Dinner can be at a cozy lodge, enjoying Armenian specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including ancient churches and monasteries.
- Beautiful landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and scenic countryside.
- Strong sense of community and hospitality among the people.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Growing tourism industry with increasing interest in its natural and cultural attractions.
- Political instability and unresolved conflicts, notably with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Limited access to certain modern amenities and infrastructure issues in rural areas.
- Geographic limitations, being landlocked and surrounded by borders with tensions.
- Challenges related to emigration, as many young people seek opportunities abroad.
Best Activities in Armenia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife of Dilijan National Park while enjoying various hiking trails.
Experience exhilarating ski slopes and breathtaking mountain views in Tsaghkadzor, a popular winter sports destination.
Enjoy a tranquil camping experience by the scenic Lake Sevan, known for its beautiful surroundings and recreational activities like fishing and swimming.
Tours
Uncover the best of Armenia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Armenia
Visit one of these nice places.
Located in the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The highest mountain in Armenia, providing panoramic views of the country.
Known for its breathtaking views and is a popular spot for photography.
Surrounded by towering cliffs and picturesque scenery, making it a great photo location.
Situated in a narrow gorge with striking red cliffs, creating a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Food in Armenia
Armenia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Khorovats, Armenian barbecue, is a must-try dish featuring skewered, grilled meat, often with a marinade of local spices and herbs. It can be found in traditional restaurants as well as at outdoor markets and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Dolma, a dish made of minced meat and rice wrapped in grape leaves or cabbage, is a popular Armenian specialty. It is often served with a side of yogurt or a garlic-yogurt sauce and can be found in local eateries and family-run restaurants.
Lavash, a soft, thin unleavened flatbread, is a staple of Armenian cuisine. It can be enjoyed on its own, used to wrap kebabs or khorovats, or served with various dips and cheeses.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Armenia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Gumi Shuka in Gyumri is a bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample an assortment of street food, including freshly baked bread, grilled meats, and an assortment of pickled vegetables.
Yerevan Vernissage Market is an excellent place to explore Armenian street food such as sujuk (spiced sausage), gata (sweet bread), and an assortment of dried fruits and nuts. The market is also a treasure trove of crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Armenian culture, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and addressing them with titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.'
Armenians are known for their warm hospitality and generosity, and it is customary to offer guests food and drinks as a sign of welcome.
Greetings in Armenia often involve kissing on the cheeks and shaking hands. It is also polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Armenia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Armenia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Armenia, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, cafes, and for other services. A typical tip is around 10% of the total bill, but it can vary based on the level of service provided.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Armenia, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly common, especially in urban areas. It's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and in more remote regions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Armenia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming wildflowers, and lush landscapes. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.
Warm weather, vibrant festivals, and lively atmosphere. Great for hiking, swimming in mountain lakes, and enjoying outdoor events.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and grape harvest season. Perfect for wine tasting tours and scenic drives through the countryside.
Cold with potential for snowfall, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Experience traditional winter festivities and visit snow-covered monasteries.
Armenia at Night
Hiking in Armenia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in the Tavush province, Dilijan National Park offers scenic trails through lush forests, beautiful lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it an attractive destination for hikers.
This vast reserve features various hiking trails surrounded by ancient forests, rich flora and fauna, and breathtaking landscapes, providing a perfect escape into nature.
Renowned for its dramatic rock formations and stunning views, Goris offers several hiking routes that showcase the region's unique geology and cultural heritage.
The area around Lake Sevan features numerous trails with panoramic views of the lake, mountains, and surrounding nature, ideal for hiking and enjoying serene landscapes.
Famous for its wine production, Areni Gorge offers hiking trails that reveal beautiful views of the gorge, caves, and vineyards, perfect for adventurous nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Armenia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Armenia by plane.
The main international airport in Armenia, located near the capital city of Yerevan.
The busiest airport in Georgia, situated approximately 270 km from Yerevan.
Located in Baku, Azerbaijan, this airport is about 400 km from Yerevan.
An airport in Georgia, located about 400 km from Armenia, primarily serving low-cost carriers.
An international airport located in Baku, Azerbaijan, around 400 km from Yerevan.
Located in the Nakhchivan exclave of Azerbaijan, approximately 240 km from Yerevan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Armenia, comprising approximately 98% of the population.
A Kurdish ethnic minority in Armenia, making up around 1.2% of the population, primarily practicing Yezidism.
A smaller ethnic group in Armenia, consisting of around 0.5% of the population, often with historical ties to the Soviet era.
An ethnic minority in Armenia, accounting for about 0.1% of the population, with a rich cultural heritage.
A very small community in Armenia, making up less than 0.1% of the population.
Another minor ethnic group in Armenia, with a population that is less than 0.1%.
The Soul of Armenia
Discover the essence of Armenia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Armenia, with a passionate fan base and a national league.
Armenia is known for its strong chess tradition, producing several grandmasters and winning multiple international championships.
Wrestling has a rich history in Armenia, and the country has produced many successful athletes in various wrestling styles.
Weightlifting is another prominent sport in Armenia, with several athletes achieving success in international competitions.
Basketball enjoys a growing popularity, with local leagues and a national team that competes at a regional level.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Armenian restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a focus on fresh produce, dairy, and grains. Diners can enjoy vegetable-based dolma, salads, stuffed peppers, and flavorful bean and lentil dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can opt for gluten-free lavash, rice-based pilafs, grilled meats without marinades containing gluten, and an array of fresh salads and vegetable-based dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Armenia with these cultural adventures.
