Summary
Armenia is increasingly recognized as a captivating tourist destination, with this small yet enchanting nation possessing a profound historical legacy.
As the first country to officially adopt Christianity as its state religion, Armenia is adorned with some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, highlighted by the imposing peak of Mount Ararat gracing the national skyline. While this majestic mountain’s summit resides beyond the Turkish border, it remains a national symbol cherished by Armenians, revered in scripture as the resting place of Noah’s Ark.
The country hosts numerous exquisite monasteries, often situated amidst remarkable natural beauty. Yerevan, the capital city, stands as one of Europe’s fastest-evolving urban centers, actively engaging with the tourism sector. Let us explore the premier destinations in Armenia!
1. Yerevan
As the largest city in Armenia, Yerevan serves as an excellent starting point for visitors keen on discovering the country. The city features the magnificent Republic Square, while ascending the Cascade to admire the monument commemorating Soviet victory in World War II is highly recommended.
Yerevan is steeped in history; a visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial provides invaluable insights into the nation’s complex past. Additionally, the Vernissage market operates on weekends, offering a delightful experience, while a leisurely stroll through the Hrazdan Gorge is also advisable.
A significant portion of Armenia’s offerings can be accessed via day trips from Yerevan, often referred to as the City of Cafes.
Yerevan notably houses the Blue Mosque, the only mosque in the entire nation, alongside Levon’s Amazing Underground World, recognized as one of Europe’s most unique attractions.
2. Shikahogh State Reserve
As Armenia’s second-largest forest reserve, Shikahogh State Reserve remains remarkably pristine, with extensive areas still unexplored.
Home to diverse wildlife such as leopards, bears, wild goats, and vipers, the reserve boasts approximately 1,100 species of plants, although the full spectrum of its fauna has yet to be thoroughly examined. A proposed highway threatened the reserve in 2005, but environmental advocates effectively campaigned to safeguard this invaluable area.
The reserve is also adorned with several beautiful waterfalls, enhancing its natural allure.
3. Lake Sevan
Located at the heart of Armenia, Lake Sevan is the country’s largest lake and a captivating destination for those seeking relaxation. The lake is encircled by remarkable monasteries, with the Sevanavank Monastery being particularly noteworthy, offering a scenic backdrop for visitors.
Recreational activities at the lake include windsurfing, complemented by a variety of seafood restaurants situated along the shores.
Lake Sevan features several popular beaches; as Armenia has no coastline, it serves as the prime location for sunbathing, with Sevan Bay and its majestic mountains providing breathtaking vistas.
4. Dilijan National Park
Among Armenia’s four national parks, Dilijan National Park is perhaps the most picturesque. Established in 2002, the park is celebrated for its medicinal mineral water springs and natural landmarks.
Significant cultural sites, including Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank Monastery, Jukhtak Vank, Matosavank Monastery, and Akhnabat Church, are located within the park’s boundaries.
The Aghestev and Getik river basins are also encompassed within the confines of Dilijan National Park.
5. Mount Aragats
Mount Aragats ranks among Armenia’s most striking natural landmarks; this dormant volcano is situated in the northern region of the country. As Armenia’s highest summit, the mountain’s base is adorned with ancient rock art, featuring depictions of animals and human figures that date back centuries.
Snow blankets the peak throughout most of the year; however, Mount Aragats is accessible for climbing, with July, August, and September being the optimal months for such activities.
The easiest ascent is from the southernmost peak, while the northern peak, at approximately 4,000 meters, presents the greatest challenge.
6. Lake Arpi
While Lake Sevan may become very crowded during peak tourist periods, Lake Arpi offers a more tranquil ambiance.
Utilized for irrigation and hydropower generation, Lake Arpi serves as the origin of the Akhurian River. In 2009, a new park was established to preserve the natural ecosystem surrounding the lake, with approximately 100 species of birds inhabiting the region. The site is recognized as a Ramsar Convention protected area, hosting abundant flora and fauna.
Lake Arpi is renowned for having one of the largest colonies of Armenian Gulls; recreational opportunities include camping and nature walks.
7. Noravank
Monasteries represent one of Armenia’s hallmark features, and Noravank stands out as one of the country’s most exquisite examples. Shielded by towering brick-red cliffs, this monastery was constructed in the 13th century.
Noravank is particularly renowned for its Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, with local lore suggesting that the monastery was divinely spared during the Mongol conquests centuries ago.
For those visiting Armenia, Noravank should be a primary consideration; it attracts thousands of visitors annually.
8. Gyumri
The second largest city in Armenia, Gyumri is worthy of exploration for first-time visitors. The ideal vantage point for appreciating Gyumri’s sights is from the Black Fortress, which overlooks the city, alongside the imposing Mother Armenia statue located in the vicinity.
Gyumri is home to several key cultural institutions, including the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture, the Aslamazyan Sisters’ House-Museum, and the Sergey Merkurov House-Museum.
The Kumayri Historic District is the oldest area in Gyumri, featuring a thousand ancient structures.
9. Vanadzor
As Armenia’s third major city, Vanadzor is situated in the north of the country and serves as an ideal base for exploring the picturesque Lori region, a premier destination within Armenia.
The Vanadzor Botanical Garden ranks among the city’s most notable tourist attractions, and visitors are encouraged to explore the Vanadzor Fine Art Museum. The Lori region is also abundant with mineral springs, offering numerous high-quality spas in and around Vanadzor.
Although Vanadzor is primarily an industrial hub, it also hosts various theaters, including the Bohem Chamber Theatre and the Vanadzor Puppet Theatre.
10. Amberd Fortress
Amberd Fortress, dating back to the seventh century, represents one of Armenia’s most remarkable sites. Once a central military outpost of the Armenian Kingdom, the fortress is located approximately one hour’s journey from Yerevan.
However, winter snowfall may hinder access to the fortress, with conditions typically improving by late May. The panoramic view from the fortress is astonishing, complemented by the architectural beauty of the structure.
Amberd Fortress is conveniently situated near the village of Byurakan, home to the Byurakan Observatory.
11. Tsaghkadzor
Armenia’s mountainous landscape creates an ideal environment for winter sports, with Tsaghkadzor recognized as the country’s premier ski resort. The ski lifts operate on a pay-per-ride basis, making them among the most economical in Europe.
Tsaghkadzor features some of the finest accommodations available in Armenia, along with a prominent entertainment complex, namely the Senator Royale casino.
The resort is also home to the Kecharis Monastery, one of Armenia’s foremost religious complexes, which dates back to the 11th century.
12. Upper Azat Valley
The Upper Azat Valley is designated as one of Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, most notably famed for the remarkable Geghard Monastery. Although the primary chapel was constructed 800 years ago, the monastery’s origins trace back to the fourth century, attributed to Gregory the Illuminator.
Legend holds that the Geghard Monastery once contained one of the spears used in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, underscoring its significance as a crucial religious site.
The Upper Azat Valley also features the St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) chapel, which is partially carved into the surrounding rock.
13. Karahunj Observatory
Commonly regarded as Armenia’s counterpart to Britain’s Stonehenge, Karahunj represents one of the most intriguing places to discover while visiting Armenia.
Situated near the city of Sisian in the Syunik province, Karahunj consists of over 200 substantial stone tombs, with a significant area featuring 40 stones arranged in a circular formation, purportedly built in honor of the primary Armenian deity, Ari, emblematic of the Sun.
A small museum in Sisian is dedicated to the discoveries made at Karahunj, which is claimed to be the oldest observatory of its kind globally.
14. Khor Virap
Mount Ararat can be appreciated from several vantage points across Armenia; nevertheless, the most splendid views are arguably found at Khor Virap monastery, which is itself a significant landmark.
This site stands as a crucial element in Armenia’s historical narrative, being the location where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years before he cured King Trdat III of his affliction. The King’s subsequent conversion to Christianity established the foundation for Armenia’s religious trajectory.
Consequently, Khor Virap has become a popular venue for Armenian weddings. The underground chamber where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned can be visited, contributing to its status as one of Armenia’s most prominent pilgrimage sites.
15. Dvin
Concluding our exploration of Armenia’s top attractions, Dvin emerges as one of the nation’s most ancient cities, historically serving as its capital during medieval times. According to UNESCO, a sixth-century BC fortress was once located in Dvin, while remarkable artifacts continue to be unearthed in this area.
Modern landmarks can also be found in the city, including the St. Harutyun Church, which was constructed in 2000.
Dvin previously housed the Cathedral of St. Grigor; however, only the stone foundations remain, uncovered by archaeologists.
