Things To Do
in Artik
Artik is a small town in northern Armenia, perched near the Shirak Plain with the Kopr River nearby. It blends quiet countryside charm with a touch of historic Armenia, including proximity to ancient monasteries. The town serves as a gateway to Marmashen Monastery and the surrounding farmland, offering simple, welcoming hospitality.
Visitors are drawn by scenic views, fresh-air landscapes, and a relaxed pace that contrasts with Armenia’s bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café that serves traditional Armenian dishes. After fueling up, embark on a walking tour of Artik, exploring its charming streets and historical architecture, including the stunning St. Mesrop Church. Don't forget to capture the beautiful mountain backdrop for some unforgettable photos.
In the afternoon, visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and pick up some handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly vendors and taste samples of locally made cheeses and dried fruits. Later, take a leisurely hike in the nearby surrounding hills to enjoy the scenic views of the Ararat Plain.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional dinner at a family-run restaurant where you can savor dishes like khorovats and dolma. Settle down with a local beverage as you listen to traditional Armenian music, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. Finally, take a stroll through the picturesque town square, soaking in the charm of the evening lights.
Begin your day by visiting the Artik History Museum to immerse yourself in the rich local heritage and appreciate the exhibits showcasing Armenia’s traditions. Spend some time chatting with the enthusiastic curator to learn more about the town's fascinating past. Later, head to a local bakery to taste freshly baked lavash.
After lunch, take part in an Armenian cooking class where you can learn how to prepare classic dishes under the guidance of a skilled chef. This hands-on experience is not only educational but also a fun way to connect with the culture. Once you've made your meal, enjoy your culinary creations with your classmates over a communal table.
In the evening, attend a performance of traditional Armenian dance at a local cultural center. Witness the vibrant costumes and rhythmic music while enjoying the artistry of professional dancers. Conclude your day by mingling with locals for a memorable night filled with stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites nearby (Marmashen Monastery)
- Quiet, scenic countryside
- Friendly locals
- Affordable costs and ease of travel
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Smaller town with fewer services than Yerevan
- Public transit can be infrequent outside main routes
- "Բարև Ձեզ" - Hello
- "Խնդրում եմ, օգնե՛ք" - Please, help me
- "Որքա՞ն է սա" - How much is this?
- "Ես հայերեն չեմ խոսում" - I do not speak Armenian
- "Որտեղ է տրանսպորտը;" - Where is the transport?
Places to Visit in Artik
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient monastery set on a hillside with dramatic valley views and atmospheric light at dawn or sunset.
Water reflections and expansive skies provide serene compositions, especially during golden hour.
Historic and newer Armenian architecture against the Shirak Plain makes for compelling street photography.
Food in Artik
Artik Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy skewers of pork, lamb, or beef cooked over charcoal; best with lavash, grilled vegetables, and herbs.
Must-Try!
Rice, herbs, and often meat wrapped in grape leaves and simmered with aromatics.
Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, hearty and especially comforting in cooler weather.
Traditional Armenian flatbread paired with soft cheese, herbs, and butter for a simple snack or light meal.
Sweet, flaky pastry filled with a light sugar and butter mixture; a common dessert or tea accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub for fresh fruit, nuts, dairy, bread, and locally produced cheeses and honey.
Casual stalls offering lavash wraps, fried pastries, local cheeses, and yogurts—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; maintain polite eye contact and a warm tone when addressing people, especially in formal settings.
Dress modestly for churches; remove hats and speak softly; show respect for religious customs and icons.
Hosts may offer tea or bread; accepting such hospitality is customary and appreciated as a sign of goodwill.
Safety
Tipping in Artik
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is customary if service is not included; rounding up at cafes or informal eateries is appreciated.
Cash in Armenian dram (AMD) is widely used; cards are accepted in larger establishments and hotels; ATMs are common in town; contactless payments are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with long sunshine; bring sunglasses and water. Expect dry conditions and vibrant evening skies.
Cold temperatures with potential snowfall; pack insulated layers and waterproof footwear. Roads can be icy, so allow extra travel time.
Mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes around villages and fields—great for hiking and outdoor photography.
Cool, comfortable days and harvest-time scenery; clear light and colorful rural backdrops.
Artik at Night
Hiking in Artik
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic path leading to Marmashen ruins with valley views.
Rural trails through farmland and small villages, suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Artik by plane.
Yerevan's main international gateway; about 3–4 hours by road from Artik.
A smaller regional airport closer to Artik with domestic and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Artik with a strong sense of community.
A small religious minority presence in parts of the Shirak region.
Transient workers and visitors; small populations in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Armenia, widely followed and played in community clubs.
A traditional and widely practiced sport with local clubs and events.
A beloved pastime and competitive activity among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Artik.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Artik, vegetarians can enjoy fresh vegetables, legumes, dairy, breads, and fruit. Look for bean dishes, roasted vegetables, salads, and cheese-based plates; you can ask for meat-free versions of regional specialties.