15 unique things to do in Armenia (2024)

Looking for the best things to do in Armenia? I’ve made this list with some of the most impressive attractions.

A few months ago, I went to Armenia and felt like I discovered a gold mine. Armenia is absolutely amazing, but you don’t hear much about it. In fact, most people don’t even know where it is or that it’s even a country. But Armenia is very much a country with a lot of things to do and see. 

Commercially, Armenia is mostly known for its celebrity connections: Cher, Andre Agassi, and no other than the Kardashians, because yes – Dad Robert was a second-generation Armenian. Historically, Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity and they have the churches and Noah’s Ark to prove it.

Although Armenia isn’t the first country that comes to mind when people plan their vacation, I hope with these posts to convince you that it’s a wonderful country worth visiting. I’d go back for the food alone! 

Read on for the best things to do in Armenia. 

Things to do in Armenia

The main thing to do in Armenia is visit monasteries and churches. And the second most important thing? Well, that’s eating the amazing Armenian food! 

Armenia has…. wait for it… 4,000 (!) monasteries and churches. 

So, obviously, there are going to be lots of monasteries in this post. But apart from that, Armenia is perfect to visit for the nature and beautiful mountains. Of course, there are many other great reasons to visit Armenia, but monasteries, nature, and Armenian food are the three main draws if you ask me. 

How to get around Armenia

My pick? Hyur Service

One of the things I always check first (besides where I’m going to stay), is how to get around. Most times we like to rent a car, but when I travel solo with Theo, I prefer to join organized day tours. Sure, I can take public transportation, but when you have a 2-year-old in tow and the massive amount of extra baggage & gear that is required, you want it to be as easy as possible!

In Armenia, things are cheap. As in super cheap! This means that joining a full-day trip to see several things on this list will cost you less than $25!

I joined a day trip from Yerevan to Garni, Geghard, and Khor Virap with Hyur Service. They’re probably the most popular and renowned tour operator in Armenia, and the staff is so nice (they give you cookies, bottled water, and WIFI on the trip – need I say more?). They even helped set me up with an apartment, when my other hotel booking fell through. Armenians are really nice in general – always so warm, open, and welcoming. I felt so safe in Armenia.

I worked with Hyur Service on this trip, but I would still go with them again when I return. Their professionalism, politeness, and helpfulness throughout were just amazing.

You can check out their services here: Great day tours in Armenia

Activities and places to visit in Armenia

1. Yerevan

Central Armenia

Your first stop in Armenia will most likely be Yerevan. Yerevan is a great capital with lots to see, and if you run out of things to do, you can dive into the amazing food scene.

I’m telling you, Armenian food is AMAZING! And since this is like the third time I’m mentioning it, there must be something about it, right? 

3 cool things to see in Yerevan: 

• Republic Square
• Yerevan Cascade
• Armenian Genocide Memorial 

2. Khor Virap

Southern Armenia

And now to the most impressive and scenic place in Armenia. I guess you can call Khor Virap (Armenian for “deep dungeon”) the hallmark of Armenia, both because it shows the famous monastery where poor Gregory the Illuminator was held captive in its super creepy dungeon for 13 years. But also because you see the massive Mount Ararat in the background.

Ararat is very dear to Armenians and also the place where Noah’s Ark was supposedly found.

Armenians even have their national brandy named after this mountain, which is actually located in Turkey. But let’s not go there. Armenia and Turkey are not on the best of terms since the Armenian genocide.

3. Noravank Monastery

Southern Armenia

Visiting Noravank is one of the more popular things to do in Armenia. And rightfully so!

This UNESCO-protected 13th-century monastery sits in a narrow gorge made by the Amaghu River.

Despite attacks by the Mongols, the Timurid dynasty, and a massive earthquake in 1340, the monastery still stands. 

4. Tatev Monastery

Southern Armenia

Tatev is the largest monastery in the country – and the sight furthest away from Yerevan.

If you’ve got time, you should definitely go here. It’s super impressive because it’s strategically poised on the steepest edge of a deep gorge. There’s a cable car at the scene, which is one of the longest in the world.

5. Geghard Monastery

Western Armenia

Geghard Monastery is about an hour’s drive from Yerevan. It’s close to Garni, too, so you’ll definitely want to see both when you’re in the area. 

What’s so special about Geghard is that it’s a UNESCO site and is considered an important pilgrimage site.

Inside the monastery, there’s a holy spring that pilgrims and some visitors drink from. This is a different and unique monastery experience. I highly recommend visiting.

6. Garni Temple

Western Armenia

Garni Temple is believed to have been erected in 77 AD, and it’s one of the only remaining pagan temples in the country.

When Armenia adopted Christianity as its national religion in the 4th century, more or less all of the pagan temples were destroyed.

Why or how the temple of Garni survived is a mystery.

7. Lake Sevan 

Western Armenia

Another popular Armenia sight is Lake Sevan.

At Lake Sevan, you’ll find Sevanavank, a monastery from the 9th century. The lake is also a great place for water sports, swimming, and relaxing.

8. Noratus Cemetery

Western Armenia

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that I have a thing for cemeteries. Not in a dark twisty way, but there’s just something about them that shows the culture of a country.

Just take the Jewish cemetery in Sarajevo, any cemetery in Guatemala, or the bone house in Hallstatt, Austria. 

But back to Noratus cemetery, which is interesting because it holds the largest cluster of cross-stones (khachkars) in the country. The oldest khachkars in the cemetery date back to the 10th century.

9. Armenian Alphabet Monument

Northern Armenia

Did you know that Armenia has its own alphabet? It does.

The Armenian alphabet was created in the year 405 AD by Armenian linguist Mesrop Mashtots and consists of 38 letters. To commemorate that fact, a monument was made of all the letters and their creator, Mashtots.

You can find this sight north of Yerevan on the road towards Georgia.

10. Amberd Fortress

Northern Armenia

So, Amberd. This medieval fortress and connecting church is surrounded by deep gorges on both sides.

Its isolated location makes it a bit difficult to get to – however, if you do get there, you’re rewarded with this view ↓

11. Goshavank Monastery

Northern Armenia

About 2 hours north of Yerevan you’ll find Goshavank, a 13th-century Armenian monastery.

Goshavank is interesting for two reasons. 1) It’s home to one of the world’s finest examples of a stone-cross, and 2) this Christian monastery has been restored by an anonymous Muslim for reasons unknown. 

Check it out if you’re in the area. You can combine it with a day trip to the Armenian alphabet, Haghartsin and Haghpat monasteries.

12. Haghpat Monastery

Northern Armenia

Haghpat Monastery is a UNESCO site and one of the largest and most impressive monastery complexes in Armenia.

Here, you can see the most characteristic features of medieval Armenian architecture, like the cross-stones, chapel tombs, and beautiful frescos. 

13. Haghartsin Monastery

Northern Armenia

Haghartsin monastery is another gem, hidden in a valley.

Haghartsin (Dance of the Eagles) was built between the 10th and 13th centuries and has three churches: one named for the Virgin Mary; another for St Stephen; and the third for Gregory the Illuminator – the poor entrapped bishop at Khor Virap.

Trust me, if you’d seen the creepy, claustrophobic dungeon way, WAY below the ground, you’d feel sorry for him, too.

You can combine this trip with a visit to Hagpat monastery or Lake Sevan.

14. Look for Brutalism Architecture

Oh, this is my favorite. And if architecture isn’t really your thing, I don’t blame you. It wasn’t mine either until recently.

But this thing – brutalism – is just something very, very different from anything you’ve ever seen. It’s a raw, haphazard design style seen across post-soviet countries.

I’ve already covered Brutalism in my post about Skopje and Tbilisi, but here are the best Brutalist buildings in Yerevan.

What to see in Armenia:

• Yerevan cascades
• Cinema Rossiya
• Yeritasardakan Metro Station
• Cable car station

15. Eat Armenian food

This! Before I visited I had no idea what the food was about.

I knew the food in Georgia had a great reputation, but the Armenian food, too?  It blew me away. It’s the most delicious, tasty cuisine I’ve had. You know how much I love Croatian food and Thai food.

Well, Armenian food gets second place in the Food World Cup! It’s that good!

So, what is it exactly?

Think grilled lamb barbecue and allspice-scented meat dumplings with tomato sauce and garlic yogurt. Oh, and don’t forget the amazing wine!

The food here is YUUUM! This photo below is deep-fried khinkali by the way, which originates from Georgia. I preferred it deep-fried or boiled with sour creme on the side. 

FAQ – What to do in Armenia

Is Armenia worth going to?

Yes, Armenia is definitely worth visiting. You’ll find unique historical sites, like ancient temples and monasteries, breathtaking landscapes in the Caucasus Mountains, and a rich cultural heritage.

The local cuisine is a delight, and the people are incredibly welcoming. It’s an excellent choice for anyone interested in history, nature, and culinary adventures.

What is the famous thing about Armenia?

Wondering, what is Armenia known for? Here are a few facts:

• Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity in 301 AD.
• Ancient churches and monasteries like Geghard and Garni.
• Traditional foods such as khorovats and lavash.
• Natural sites like Lake Sevan and the Caucasus Mountains.
• High-quality brandy production.
• Rich cultural traditions, including music and dance.

Is Armenia a tourist-friendly country?

Yes, Armenia is tourist-friendly. You’ll find hospitable locals, affordable accommodations, and accessible transportation.

English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, making it easier for you to communicate. The country is safe.

Is 3 days enough in Armenia?

Three days in Armenia allows you to see some of the country’s highlights, but it’s a tight schedule.

You can explore the capital, Yerevan, visit the majestic Geghard Monastery, and see the Temple of Garni.

Don’t miss these posts on Armenia

• 10 amazing things to do in Yerevan
• Food of Armenia: 14 dishes you must try in Yerevan
• How to visit the legendary Khor Virap monastery
• How to visit the ancient Geghard Monastery
• Your travel guide to the ancient Temple of Garni
• 15 amazing things to do in Armenia
• 16 fun facts about Armenia

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