Planning a trip to Armenia and wondering what you should add to your travel bucket list?
If you are a history lover, an adventure-seeker, a foodie, or a lover of the outdoors – or all of the above – Armenia is a country that has something for you. This country has everything from UNESCO World Heritage sites, to jaw-dropping natural landscapes, to serene spiritual sights, to late nights at a club, to delicious and fresh cuisine. There’s no shortage of things to do in Armenia. This Armenia Travel Bucket List includes the best of the best activities.
Armenia is one of the world’s oldest countries with a history dating back thousands of years. It’s a land of ancient churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites. Armenia is often considered one of the more budget-friendly countries in the region. Accommodations, food, and transportation tend to be reasonably priced, making it more accessible to a wide range of travelers. It is not as heavily visited as some other European destinations, which means you can explore historic sights and natural beauty without the heavy crowds usually found in more popular destinations.
Whether you’re looking for travel inspiration to save right now or you’ve already booked your flights and are planning the specific details of your trip for things to see and do in Armenia, this travel bucket list is for you. Let’s go!
What To Do in Yerevan
If you’re like most travelers, your journey to Armenia will begin in the capital and largest city in the country – Yerevan. The city is home to a population of just over one million. Yerevan is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history. You can explore its museums, art galleries, and enjoy the bustling café culture.
- Visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex to learn about the history of the country and pay respects
- Grab a coffee at Coffeehouse Prime
- Go on a walking tour with Yerevan Free Walking Tours
- Watch the Singing Fountains show at night (every night except Tuesday)
- Shop at Vernissage Market
- Admire the sunset (or sunrise) from the top of Cascade Complex
- Learn about Armenia at the History Museum of Armenia
- See the Soviet-era Moscow Cinema
- Walk through Victory Park and wave to Mother Armenia
- Visit GUM Market to shop for local food and produce
- Drink and learn about brandy at Noy or Ararat
- See a show at the National Opera and Ballet Theater
- Visit the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church – Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral
- Walk Northern Avenue with locals in the evening
- Take a ride on the metro and see why Soviet metro systems were and still are so popular
- Enjoy an Armenian craft beer at Dargett Brewpub
- Visit the Blue Mosque, the only active mosque in Armenia
- Take a trip to Erebuni Fortress and see why Yerevan is considered to be older than Rome
- Chill out and relax at Lover’s Park
What To Do in Sevan
Visiting Lake Sevan is an absolute must for nature lovers. It is the largest lake in the Caucasus. We will never forget the moment we first laid eyes on this lake. Picture our jaws completely dropped and us repeating, “I had no idea it looks like THIS!” approximately one million times. Lake Sevan is one of the bluest lakes we have ever seen. The mountains surrounding the lake make it an absolutely beautiful sight.
- Sit and enjoy the view from Sevan Island and Sevanavank
- See the Soviet architecture of Sevan Writers’ House
- Go for a nice swim in Lake Sevan
- Grab a drink at one of the beach bars
- Climb up the Soviet Viewing Platform
- Stop at one of the many viewpoints and admire the insanely blue lake water
What To Do in Dilijan
Known as the Armenian Switzerland or Little Switzerland, you can’t go wrong with visiting Dilijan. It is a quaint town around an hour and a half northeast of Yerevan. The town itself is charming, but we especially enjoyed the nature. Since it is in the northern part of the country, temperatures are cooler and it is the perfect spot for hiking and spending time outdoors.
- Eat a fresh corn cob from one of the many roadside stands on your drive in
- Give a hug to the King of the Forest
- Admire the beauty of Haghartsin Monastery Complex
- Go for a hike on the Medieval Monasteries Trail
- Book a horseback riding tour
What To Do in Gyumri
Located approximately two hours northwest of Yerevan, Gyumri is the second largest city in Armenia. The city was devastated by the 1988 Spitak Earthquake, but it is still a cultural hub and there are on-going efforts to rebuild. Despite most of the heritage buildings being flattened or destroyed, there is new life beginning in the city.
- Admire the unique colors of Vartanants Square (Freedom Square)
- Visit the Black Fortress
- Shop for fresh, local produce at Gyumri Market
- See the Soviet-era Iron Fountain
What To Do in Garni
Garni is a small village located approximately 1 hour southeast of Yerevan. It is best known for the Garni Temple, but this area is worth the visit for a number of incredible sites.
- Visit the Garni Temple
- See the optical illusion of the Symphony of Stones
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Geghard Monastery
- Enjoy the epic views of Garni Gorge
- Eat a lovely meal in a fruit orchard at Time to Eat Garden
- Refresh with a fruit smoothie or juice at one of the stands on Marzpetuni St.
- Visit the Garni Historical and Cultural Museum
- Relax by the water at Azat Reservoir
- Go for a hike at Khosrov National Park
What To Do in Ararat
No trip to Armenia would be complete without admiring the snow-capped and dormant compound volcano in the extreme east of Turkey – Mount Ararat. This area is approximately 1 hour south of Yerevan. Ararat is the highest peak in Turkey and the Armenian Highland with an elevation of 16,854 feet. This mountain is best known for its descriptions in the Bible as the resting place of Noah’s Ark. This region is important to Armenian culture as Ararat is considered to be a sacred mountain by Armenians and it is often featured in Armenian literature and art.
- Vist the iconic Khor Virap Monastery
- Go rock climbing at Hell Canyon
- Support the animals at Caucasus Wildlife Refuge
- Have a quick bite at Vana Food or Ham Buyr
What To Do in Southern Armenia
Despite being a relatively small country, Armenia is filled with amazing sights and activities in every corner. If you have a longer trip planned, we highly recommend spending some time exploring the southern regions of Armenia.
- Visit Noravank Monastery
- Enjoy the Goris Town Viewpoint
- Ride the Wings of Tatev, the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world
- Visit the incredible Tatev Monastery
How Many Of These Top Things In Armenia Are On Your Travel Bucket List?
Now you’ve discovered the best things to do in Armenia, which of these incredible activities are your favorite?
There’s something in this Armenia bucket list for every type of traveler and any type of trip. Although it is less frequently visited than other budget-friendly destinations in Europe and Asia, it is the perfect country if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path type of trip. Armenia has a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and friendly local hospitality that can make for an incredible trip. Let us know your favorite spots in Armenia!
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