14 Best Things To Do In Armenia: An Amazing Destination

Situated in the South Caucasian region of Eurasia, Armenia is one of the oldest countries in the world. With a magnificent history, there are a lot of interesting things to do in Armenia. Its distinctive culture, unique traditions, literature, art, music and dance attracts visitors from all across the globe. The economy of this country is dependent on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. It is a landlocked country with a unique landscape, with mountains, forests, and rivers. You can also explore the churches and streets and participate in outdoor activities for a memorable vacation.

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Top 14 Things To Do In Armenia

An interesting vacation awaits you this year, thus, delve into this listing and discover the exciting things to do in Armenia:

1. Meditate At The Geghard Monastery

Geghard monastery is set in the middle of lush greenery.

Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons

During your visit to Armenia, you can have the wonderful experience of meditating at the Geghard monastery. This place is full of natural beauty and provides a unique vibe of spirituality. It is one of the most popular places in Armenia and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main courtyard of the monastery overlooking the gorge is a beautiful spot. Amidst the surroundings, establish a connection with nature here.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 50 km
Tip To Travel: Book a ride-hailing service via GG or Yandex taxi to reach the monastery

Suggested Read: Tatev Monastery

2. Explore The Temple Of Garni

Temple exploration is among the best things to do in Armenia.

Photo: Armenak Margarian / Wikimedia Commons

This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Armenia. It is one of a kind and can be dated back to the 1st century AD. Dedicated to the sun God, Mihr, it is located in the village of Garni and signifies the ancient heritage of Armenia. You can visit the temple and peacefully meditate on its premises. One can connect with nature and absorb the positivity in the surroundings during your visit.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 41 km
Tip To Travel: Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water if visiting during summer

3. Climb To The Top Of Mount Ararat

Climbing Mount Ararat is among the best things to do in Armenia.

Photo: Daniel Born / Unsplash

Mount Ararat is a snow-capped Mountain with 16,854 feet elevation above sea level. It is conventionally considered the resting place of Noah‘s ark. You may need a permit from the Turkish Government to reach this mountain. It is considered a three-day climb, one of the best things to do in Armenia. The summit is present at an elevation of 5137 m. It is a high-altitude hike that involves lower oxygen levels. The weather is more predictable in summer months, considered unfavourable to climb.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 510 km
Tip To Travel: Hire a local guide, bring breathable clothing, and carry adequate gear like trekking poles and sleeping bags for this climb

Suggested Read: Georgia Travel Guide

4. Discover Yerevan’s History

The beautiful Yerevan has enormous key sites to visit.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Yerevan is one of the oldest inhabited cities across the globe. Its history is about 2800 years old. It is a beautiful ancient city with modern culture. Key sites like Republic Square are the symbol of Armenia‘s independence. It is a visual treat to see the dancing fountains and illuminated buildings at this place. The History Museum of Armenia, which has ancient artifacts,is an excellent stop. Erebuni fortress, built in 782, is another remarkable historical site, one of the best things to see in Armenia.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 13 km
Tip To Travel: Metro system is great to get around, trolley buses and buses can also be taken to reach this place

5. Explore Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap Monastery is for a meditative experience.

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

It is an iconic religious site in the country of Armenia. Located near the Turkish border, it is a stunning monastery and a place of spiritual importance as well. It has an association with the Christianization of Armenia. The complex of the monastery has a small chapel and a modern church. The pit of Saint Gregory is another historical feature of the monastery. Explore the religious artwork and paintings related to Armenian Christian history, one of the best things to do in Armenia.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 46 km
Tip To Travel: Spring and fall are considered the best time to visit this place due to mild weather

Suggested Read: Jvari Monastery

6. Trek In The Dilijan National Park

Beautiful Dilijan National Park is among the best things to see in Armenia.

Photo: ՎԱՍ / Wikimedia Commons

Dilijan National Park is a stunning natural reserve in Armenia. It has a large green forest with a picture-perfect backdrop. This place is popular for its rich biodiversity and is also called the Switzerland of Armenia. It is located in the northeast of the country. It has beautiful forests, rivers, and trails, offering a great view. The trail across Parz Lake is great for hiking. The thick deciduous forest consisting of oak and hornbeam trees is mesmerizing. You can spot deer, bird species, and wild boars at this place.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 122 km
Tip To Travel: Wear comfortable hiking boots and pack light layers as per the weather, carry a hat, sunscreen, and a first aid kit for the visit

7. Relax At Lake Sevan

Witnessing Lake Sevan is among the best things to do in Armenia.

Photo: ՎԱՍ / Wikimedia Commons

This lake in Armenia is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. It attracts several tourists as it is a peaceful retreat for the visitors. It is popularly called the Jewel of Armenia. You can swim in the lake or simply enjoy a picnic around it. Fishing is a popular activity in this area. Sunrise and sunset are extremely beautiful in this region. It also has several beaches where you can relax or immerse in the beauty of nature.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 83 km
Tip To Travel: Taxi or private car is the best way to travel, follow eco-friendly practices in this area, enjoy the local cuisine, including grilled fish and lavash

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Yerevan

8. Take A Tour Of The Wine Region Of Areni

A natural scenic landscape in Areni, one of the best places.

Photo: Rafael Ishkhanyan / Unsplash

In Southern Armenia, Areni is known for its winemaking tradition. This place has beautiful vineyards and wine caves for the production of some of the finest wines in the country. It is a great place to visit for wine enthusiasts or anyone interested in the winemaking heritage of the nation. The Areni, one cave complex, is globally significant for the study of wine. This is where the oldest known wine press was found. You can visit the Areni wine factory, Tushpa wine factory and Karas wines.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 112 km
Tip To Travel: Respect the local culture, visit from late September to October to attend the Areni wine festival

9. Experience Jermuk Hot Springs

Steam erupts from the hot springs in Jermuk hot springs.

Photo: Netherzone / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Jermuk is located in a stunning resort town known for its hot springs. This place has scenic landscapes and picturesque waterfalls. It has therapeutic mineral water that attracts wellness seekers from all across the globe. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing visit or a wellness visit to Jermuk, this is a great experience to enjoy. This waterfall has 70 m of elevation, and you can click great outdoor pictures of this cascading waterfall.

Distance From The Airport: 170 km
Tip To Travel: Book for the spa resorts or health centers in advance, especially during the peak seasons

10. Ski In Tsaghkadzor

Ski in Tsaghkadzor, an adventure amidst the snow covered mountains.

Photo: Alessio Soggetti / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Located in the north of Yerevan, this place in Armenia is famous for its premier ski resorts. It is a popular place to visit, especially for winter sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports at this place. It is a great place to visit for both beginners and pro skiers. There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes that you can enjoy depending on your level. You will need a ski pass for this activity.

Distance From Zvartnots International Airport: 69 km
Tip To Travel: Visit between December and March for ideal conditions for skiing, book your rental equipment in advance during peak season

11. Marvel At The Symphony Of Stones

A picture of the intriguing stones formation at Harmony of Stones, one of the best tourist attractions in Armenia

Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons

Symphony of Stones, a natural rock formation in the Garni Gorge, around 27 kilometres east of Yerevan, is one of the best places to visit in Armenia. Here, ancient lava flows cooled and cracked into hundreds of perfect hexagonal and pentagonal basalt columns up to 50 metres tall, resembling a giant set of organ pipes. This mesmerising sight stretches along the cliff face beside the Azat River and is one of Armenia’s most unique natural monuments.

Location: Garni Gorge, Kotayk Province
Major Attractions: Basalt column cliffs near Garni Temple

Suggested Read: Monuments In Georgia

12. Ride The Tatev Cable Car

A picture of a cable car tramway in Tatev, riding on which is one of the best things to do in Armenia

Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons

Take a ride on the Wings of Tatev Cable Car, a 5.7-kilometre aerial tramway linking the village of Halidzor to the historic Tatev Monastery. It holds the record as the world’s longest reversible cable car built in a single section, offering sweeping views over the deep Vorotan Gorge and surrounding mountains. At the top, explore Tatev Monastery’s ancient churches and nearby trails before gliding back down. This is easily one of the most fun things to do in Armenia.

Location: Halidzor village, Syunik Province
Major Attractions: Scenic views, Tatev Monastery

13. Sample Armenian Wine In The Areni Region

A picture of a wine tasting area in the Areni region of Armenia, with seating arrangement made for a relaxed experience

Photo: Wikieditor11221 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Nestled in Vayots Dzor’s foothills, the Areni region is regarded as the cradle of Armenian winemaking, boasting the world’s oldest winery unearthed in the Areni-1 cave dating to 4100 BC. Each October, the popular Areni Wine Festival draws visitors worldwide to sample authentic reds, crisp rosés and whites from more than 25 boutique producers, with a commemorative glass and tasting coupons for a small fee. Rolling vineyards line the E117 road, where guided tours reveal historic amphora fermentation alongside modern oak ageing, making this an unmissable experience for wine lovers and curious travellers alike.

Location: Areni village, Vayots Dzor
Major Attractions: Ancient wineries and local wine sampling

14. Witness The Alphabet Monument

A frontal view of two tall stone pillars with the Armenian alphabet written all over it, surrounded by greenery

Photo: Armineaghayan / Wikimedia Commons

The Alphabet Monument sits on the western slope of Mount Aragats in Artashavan village, Araghatson region. Erected in 2005 to mark the 1600th anniversary of Mesrop Mashtots’s creation of the Armenian script, it comprises 39 giant stone sculptures representing each letter, all carved from local tufa and set dramatically against the hillside. The ensemble also honours great Armenian thinkers, with plaques and statues interspersed among the letters. This open-air gallery offers panoramic views across the highlands and stands as a striking testament to Armenia’s enduring linguistic heritage.

Location: Near Artashavan village, Aragatsotn Province
Major Attractions: Giant stone letters honouring Armenian alphabet

Now that you have checked the things to do in Armenia, you can start packing your bags for a marvellous trip. This trip guarantees beautiful landscapes and stunning natural beauty that you can visit with your family and friends. Explore the natural wonders of beautiful Armenia and enjoy several activities. Book your trip with TripXL now to enjoy the vacation of a lifetime in Armenia.

Cover Photo: Nerses Khachatryan / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Armenia?

Explore Yerevan’s cultural landmarks, visit ancient monasteries like Tatev and Geghard, and enjoy Lake Sevan’s scenic beauty. Also, hike in Dilijan National Park, take the Wings of Tatev cable car, and experience Armenian wine tasting in Areni.

What is the best time to visit Armenia?

The best time to visit Armenia is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring offers blooming flowers and green valleys, while autumn brings colorful foliage and ideal conditions for sightseeing.

Which outdoor sites can be visited in Armenia?

Armenia offers stunning outdoor sites like Lake Sevan, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and visit Sevanavank Monastery. The ancient Tatev Monastery, accessible via the world’s longest cable car, provides stunning mountain scenery. Khor Virap, set against the backdrop of Mount Ararat, is a must-visit for its historical and panoramic beauty.

Which indoor sites can be visited in Armenia?

In Armenia, you can visit the Matenadaran in Yerevan, a repository of ancient manuscripts showcasing the country’s literary heritage. The History Museum of Armenia offers fascinating artifacts from prehistoric times to modern history. For a unique experience, explore the Megerian Carpet Museum to witness traditional Armenian carpet weaving.

What are the best things to eat in Armenia?

Armenian cuisine offers rich flavours with dishes like khorovats (grilled meat skewers), dolma (grape leaves stuffed with meat and rice), and lavash (traditional flatbread). Harissa, a slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, and spas, a yogurt-based soup, are comforting local favourites.

14 Things To Do In Armenia: Dive Into The Best Experiences