Things To Do
in Ashtarak
Ashtarak is a small historic town in Armenia's Aragatsotn Province, set on a gentle hill with views toward the surrounding countryside. Its stone houses, centuries-old churches, and welcoming locals give visitors a sense of traditional Armenian village life. The town serves as a convenient base for day trips to Byurakan Observatory and the Aragatsotn highlands.
Visitors enjoy quiet streets, farm-to-table cuisine, and easy access to nature and culture just outside Yerevan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk through the historic streets of Ashtarak, absorbing the rich architecture and local culture. Enjoy a hearty Armenian breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh lavash and honey. The morning sun makes for the perfect backdrop for photographs of the ancient churches that dot the landscape.
Visit the Karmravor Church, a stunning 7th-century structure renowned for its unique red color and captivating views. After your explorations, indulge in a traditional Armenian lunch at a nearby eatery, savoring dishes such as khorovats (barbecue) and dolma. Spend the afternoon strolling through local markets, experiencing the vibrant life of the town as you meet friendly locals and join in their daily routines.
As the sun sets, relax at a local tavern with a glass of Armenian wine or a refreshing apricot juice. Engage with local musicians as they play traditional folk music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. End your day with a peaceful walk by the Hrazdan River, allowing the tranquil surroundings to wash over you.
Begin with a visit to the Ashtarak Monastery, discovering the ancient manuscripts and unique architecture of the site. Feel the spiritual energy of the place as you explore the tranquil grounds, taking time to reflect in the morning serenity. The friendly monks may offer brief insights into the monastery's rich history, enhancing your understanding of its significance.
After a reflective morning, enjoy a traditional Armenian lunch featuring fresh local ingredients. Continue your historical journey with a visit to the ruins of the nearby ancient city of Artashat, where you can explore the remains and imagine the life of previous inhabitants. This afternoon is perfect for learning about the evolution of Armenian culture through its relics.
Return to Ashtarak as the vibrant colors of sunset light up the town. Choose a local restaurant for a delightful dinner, where you can try regional specialties while sharing stories with fellow travelers. Spend the evening strolling around the town square, soaking in the atmosphere with its illuminated fountains and lively crowds.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍝Three-course meal for two | $15-25 |
| 🚆Public transportation one-way ticket | $0.40-0.80 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room (one night) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful landscape and countryside views
- Close proximity to Yerevan for day trips
- Genuine Armenian village atmosphere and hospitality
- Accessible local cuisine with farm-to-table flavors
- Limited nightlife and quick-service options in smaller towns
- Occasional road conditions outside the main routes
- Fewer large-scale attractions compared with the capital
- "Barev dzez" - Hello to you
- "Shnorhagalem" - Thank you
- "Ayo" - Yes
- "Voch" - No
- "Dzer hasarak e Angleren?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bari lav" - Please
- "Ynta luses" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Ashtarak
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views of the town and surrounding plains, especially golden at sunrise or sunset.
Photogenic alleys and traditional houses along weathered stone walls that reflect regional architecture.
Massive telescope complex and surrounding hills offering dramatic light and silhouette shots during golden hour.
Quiet rural fields with distant mountains, perfect for wide landscape shots and seasonal harvest imagery.
Food in Ashtarak
Ashtarak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed grape leaves or vegetables, often cooked with herbs and sometimes meat; commonly found in markets and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Armenian grilled meat, usually pork or lamb, served with lavash, onions, herbs, and a lemon wedge.
Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, hearty and warming, traditionally prepared in winter.
Thin Armenian bread wrapped around soft cheese or herbs; a simple yet iconic snack found everywhere.
Sweet pastry with a crumbly, butter-rich texture; often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh produce, herbs, dairy, and homemade cheeses; arrive early for the best selections.
Casual shish kebab, grilled corn, lavash wraps, and locally baked pastries that make great on-the-go bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common. Address people by their first name or title when possible, and use a polite tone in conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries and remove hats where appropriate. Photography inside sacred spaces may be restricted.
If invited to a home, bringing a small gift is appreciated. Accept offered food and drink as a sign of hospitality, and use your right hand or both hands when exchanging items.
Safety
Tipping in Ashtarak
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants or cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. Tipping is common but not mandatory in casual settings.
Cash in Armenian dram is widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are increasingly available at larger establishments, though many small shops and market stalls prefer cash. ATMs are common in Yerevan and larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with long daylight. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cold and occasionally snowy, with icy roads. Pack warm clothing, waterproof footwear, and check road conditions before travel.
Mild temperatures with blooming flora. Great for walking tours and photography; expect intermittent showers.
Cool and crisp with harvest-season scenery. Pleasant for outdoor exploration and photography, with fewer crowds.
Ashtarak at Night
Hiking in Ashtarak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trailheads in the Aragatsotn area offer alpine scenery, volcanic formations, and panoramic views of the Ararat plain.
Rugged trails around the historic Amberd fortress with dramatic valley views and shade in the warmer months.
Gentle to moderate gorge trails near Byurakan with waterfalls and scenic stonework.
Airports
How to reach Ashtarak by plane.
The main international gateway to Armenia, located near Yerevan. Accessible by road in about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic; taxis and airport shuttles are common options.
Secondary international gateway, northern Armenia. Useful for regional travel and connections when Yerevan is less convenient.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority of residents, with strong kinship networks and traditional family structures.
A small, historic minority present in parts of Armenia, contributing to cultural diversity in the region.
Legacy communities stemming from the Soviet era, present in smaller numbers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Armenia, with local clubs and informal matches in towns like Ashtarak.
Widely played and watched; local and regional games occur in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashtarak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Armenia through vegetable stews, lentil soups, salads, grilled vegetables, and dairy-based items. When ordering, ask for no meat stock or broth and confirm that no meat products were used in sauces.