Things to Do in Armenia

1. Be awed by the beautiful ancient churches & ruins: If you wish to get into the roots of Christianity during your tour to Armenia, you must explore the ancient churches & ruins that have shaped this country. Armenia was the first country in the world to recognize Christianity as its state religion, after which many monasteries were constructed.

Khor Virap Monastery is a popular religious site in Armenia where St Gregory was imprisoned for preaching Christianity to the people. Noravank Monastery and Geghard Monastery are also some of the most renowned holy places in Armenia that you must visit.

2.Indulge in the delicious local cuisine: One of the best activities in Armenia that you must try to satisfy your hunger pangs is indulging in delicious local cuisine. Armenia has some of the best cafes and restaurants like Cross of Unity in Echmiadzin, where you can try a wide range of Armenian cuisines without digging a hole in your pocket.

From allspice-scented meat dumplings to grilled lamb barbecue and lavash, everything over here is lip-lurking and delicious. You can also try the amazing wines and cocktails to refresh your body and mind.

Location: Cross of Armenian Unity NGO. RA, city Ejmiatsin, 1101, Shahumyan

3. Drink the famous Armenian coffee: If you're looking to get a caffeine fix, you should definitely try the famous Armenian coffee. Armenian coffee is different from the coffees served in other parts of the world as the beans here are crushed properly, and then water is added to it and is heated in an Armenian coffee pot for that irresistible flavor and taste.

There are some bustling coffee shops and lively restaurants scattered around the country where you can grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee. If you want to drink the coffee in the Armenian way, it's best to avoid sugar and have a thin layer of flavorful residue at the cup's base.

4. Explore Yerevan, the 'pink city of Armenia: If you're hunting for the best things to do in Armenia, you should definitely explore Yerevan, which is called "The Pink City," as the buildings here are made of volcanic rocks of varying shades of pink. It is known to be a center of art, industry, and culture and has centuries-old history.

You can watch the alluring sunset from the Cascade Complex, take a tour of the brandy factory, and discover Armenian delicacies at the famous cafes and restaurants. You can also stock up souvenirs and homemade arts and crafts at the Vernissage Market.

5. Visit the one and only remaining Pagan Temple – Garni Temple: One of the best activities to do in Armenia for spiritual enthusiasts is visiting the Garni Temple, renowned for its classical Hellenistic structure. It is the only remaining Pagan Temple built by king Tiridates I in the First Century.

The temple's geometrical figures, colonnades, and rich decorations represent ancient Greek architectural style. It is dedicated to Mihr, the Armenian sun god, and is renowned for its breathtaking aesthetics and location.

Location: Geghard Monastery Road H3, Garni Armenia

6. Delight your taste buds with delicious fruit-flavored wines: Your trip to Armenia won't be complete if you don't try the delicious fruit-flavored wines made from high-quality grapes. Armenia is the oldest country in the world to produce wine, and you can taste here the traditional red wine and refreshing wines of interesting fruit flavors like pomegranate, apricot, and more!

These fruit-flavored wines won't make you feel high but will offer you a refreshing taste that will remain etched in your taste buds forever. You can also attend a wine tour to taste the delicious wines offered by the various companies.

7. Enjoy the majestic view of Lake Sevan: Enjoying Lake Sevan's majestic view is considered one of the best things to do in Armenia for nature enthusiasts. It is the highest lake in the world, located nineteen hundred meters above sea level, and is also known as "The Jewel of Armenia."

The best thing about this lake is that the temperature remains constant as it is the highest lake. There are many budget houses, luxurious hotels, leisure centers, and gazebos at this lake. You can enjoy here various water-based activities such as jet-skiing, sunbathing, windsurfing, and swimming.

8. Be amazed by the beautiful Khachkars at Noratus Cemetery: Marvel at the design of the age-old tombstones at Noratus Cemetery, which is an early Middle Age cemetery with the country's largest cluster of khachkars. The number of khachkars here is nearly a thousand copies from the thirteenth to the seventeenth centuries. Each of them has its own distinctive design made of life scenes or beautiful ornaments.

You'll find a Khachkar here that has a scene of a wedding carved on it, as the people at that time believed that you could overcome death and sadness with happiness.

Location: Noratus, Gegharkunik Marz, Armenia

9. Witness the Genocide Memorial Complex: One of the most interesting activities in Armenia that you must try is witnessing the Genocide Memorial Complex that served as a church, museum, archive center, monument, and exhibition. This complex has been built in the memory of more than a million Armenians who perished in the genocide of the twentieth century.

It is considered an important pilgrimage site that provokes reflection around the atrocities of war while commemorating the dead in a dignified manner. The complex now functions as a museum giving a glimpse of the rich history of Armenia.

10. Stroll the Historic Streets of Dilijan: If you wish to immerse yourself into Armenia's cultural heritage, you must stroll the Historic Streets of Dilijan, home to various museums, beautiful houses, and cafes. While exploring the old town buildings and significant landmarks, you can stock up a souvenir from specialized studios and workshops which sell jewelry, carpets, clothing, ceramics, arts and crafts, and wood carvings.

You can also try Armenian cuisines by visiting the street side food stalls and cafes. The streets of Dilijan have a magical allure in winter as the snow-clad mountains blend with the old town buildings of medieval churches creating a fairy-tale ambiance.

1. Skiing: If you're looking for the ultimate powder skiing experience, Armenia's ski resorts should be your ideal choice. The main ski area on Mount Teghenis rises 2,820 meters above sea level and is famed for its spectacular views, empty slopes, and low-priced lift passes.

2. Paragliding: Enjoy the beauty of jaw-dropping mountains and indulge in the simplicity of rolling green pastures by enjoying paragliding in Armenia. You can experience an adventurous paragliding ride over Yerevan and witness the city from an aerial perspective.

3. Horse Riding: Take in Armenia's beautiful views and saunter through its wilderness on horseback to have the best experience of your life. Armenia has some of the most popular horse riding centers like Hovik Hayrapetyan Equestrian Center and Ayrudzi Riding Club, where you can participate in the process of saddling and learn the skills of horse riding.

1. Enjoy splendid views from Byurakan Observatory: One of the best activities in Armenia that you must try during the wee hours is enjoying splendid views from Byurakan Observatory, which is the highest spot in the country. It has several telescopes that help you capture the nighttime panorama of the country.

2. Explore the Republic Square: Exploring the Republic Square that is Yerevan's central town square, is considered one of the best things to do in Armenia at night. During this time, the singing fountains are lit with artificial lights, and a light show is performed in front of the Art Gallery.

3. Shake your legs at the bar: If you're looking for the best things to do in Armenia during the nighttime, you should head straight to Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar that has a lively atmosphere and attractive décor. You can dance with your partner in the discotheque or grab a beer or nibble snacks at the lounge area.

By Air: Yerevan Zvartnots Airport is the main airport of Armenia, and Zvartnots International Airport is the main airport located in Yerevan. Various airlines such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, Delta, and KLM fly to Armenia.

Late May and early June are considered the best time to visit Armenia as the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration. You can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking and zip-lining during these months.

Yes, Armenia is safe as the crime rate is low here, and there are no major crime organizations or gangs. You should, however, remain vigilant whenever you move out of your hotel to stay away from pickpockets.

1. Mount Ararat: This is an awe-inspiring mountain that offers splendid views of Yerevan.

2. Lake Sevan: It is the deepest and the largest lake in the Transcaucasus, renowned for its cold azure water.

3. Armenian Carpets: The Armenian Highlands are renowned for the origin of the Eastern Carpet.

4. Amberd Fortress: This is a tenth-century fortress situated 2,300 meters above sea level, on Mount Aragats slopes.

- Pomegranate souvenirs
- Mount Ararat souvenirs
- Antique carpets
- Armenian cognac
- Dried fruits
- Fruit Leather
- Soviet coins and medallions
- Fruit Wine
- Kachkar
- Fruit Roll Ups
- Armenian Chocolate
- Armenian Silver jewelry
- Armenian T-Shirts
- Musical Instruments

Yes, it is absolutely safe to visit Armenia as the law and order over here is quite stringent and the crime rate over here is low ensuring the safety of the visitors. You should however avoid walking at dark and uncrowded streets alone.