Armenia Holidays

Best things to do in Armenia

Armenia is a treasure trove with a rich, unique history, stunning natural beauty and welcoming people – perfect for travellers looking for an unforgettable experience. Here's the best of what Armenia holidays have to offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Dilijan National Park: Offering amazing views of lush forests, the cascading hills of this national park are a must-see for nature lovers. The park is sometimes called the "Armenian Switzerland" for its picturesque scenery.

• Mount Ararat: Though technically across the border in Turkey, the view of Mount Ararat from Yerevan is iconic. The twin-peaked mountain is especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.

• Sevanavank Monastery: Perched on a peninsula on Lake Sevan, this monastery offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for photography and quiet contemplation.

The best districts

• Yerevan city centre: The heart of Armenia's capital has a great many fascinating places to visit, with excellent cultural sites and museums, a vibrant art scene, and the best dining and nightlife in the country. Republic Square, with its dancing fountains and government buildings, is a great place to start exploring.

• Gyumri: Known for its artistic heritage and traditional crafts, Armenia's second city is a laid-back place offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural past. Home to numerous museums and galleries, you should also visit Shuka open-air food market, which has the feel of a Middle Eastern souk.

• Dilijan: In an area often referred to as "Armenian Switzerland", Dilijan is a picturesque town that is becoming Armenia's outdoor capital. Known best as a base for hiking in beautiful natural surroundings, the historic centre offers a mix of charming rustic buildings, interesting museums and monuments to the Soviet era.

Historic monuments

• Khor Virap Monastery: Located near the border with Turkey, Khor Virap is where Christianity first started in Armenia and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the country. It's famed for its deep pit where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned, with Mount Ararat providing a dramatic backdrop.

• Geghard Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this spectacular medieval monastery is partially carved out of a mountain, surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. It's one of the most revered holy sites in Armenia, and an absolute must-see.

• Noravank Monastery: Set in a narrow gorge surrounded by red cliffs, this 13th-century monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning natural setting. It's particularly striking at sunset, when the stone glows red.

Day trips in the area

• Garni Temple: This classical Hellenistic temple is located about 30km from Yerevan and is the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia. Nearby, you can explore the stunning Garni Gorge with its basalt column formations.

• Lake Sevan: Just an hour's drive from Yerevan, Lake Sevan is one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. It's perfect for a day of swimming, boating or simply relaxing by the shore.

• Tatev Monastery: Accessible via one of the world's longest cable-car rides, the Wings of Tatev, this remote monastery is not only a spiritual site, but also offers breathtaking views of the Vorotan Gorge.

Activities for families in Armenia

Armenia offers a wealth of activities for families, ensuring that everyone has a memorable holiday.

• Parks and gardens: Families will enjoy exploring the spacious and beautifully maintained Lover's Park in Yerevan, with its ponds, playgrounds and picnic spots. Victory Park is another excellent option, featuring amusement rides and stunning city views.

• Museums: The History Museum of Armenia in Yerevan has exhibits from the Stone Age up to the Armenian Genocide in the 20th century that will captivate and educate children and adults alike.

• Historic monuments and sites: Children will be fascinated by the ancient structures and stories of places like the Geghard Monastery and the Khor Virap Monastery. These sites offer a glimpse into Armenia's rich history and provide plenty of scope for exploration.

• Theme parks and adventure: Yerevan's Luna Park offers a range of rides and attractions for younger children. For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, the rope courses and zip lines at Yell Extreme Park in Yenokavan are a thrilling experience.

Wellness in Armenia

• Spas and thermal baths: Jermuk is a former Soviet-era spa town, and renowned for its natural mineral springs and health spas. The Mineral Water Gallery is a popular spot for sampling the therapeutic waters, while several hotels offer ‚Äúmedical‚Äù and spa treatments.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Dilijan National Park and Khosrov Forest State Reserve offer numerous trails through forests, mountains and along rivers. These parks are also ideal for birdwatching and picnics.

• Paragliding: Armenia's mountainous terrain provides excellent conditions for paragliding. Tandem flights with experienced instructors are available in various locations, including Mount Hatis and the Lori region.

• Paddleboarding: Lake Sevan is a perfect spot for stand-up paddleboarding. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it an enjoyable activity for all skill levels.

Local dishes in Armenia

Eating out is one of the great delights of holidays to Armenia – either enjoying home-cooked food in guesthouses and small diners, or sampling the tasty, popular choices in restaurants and street food. Here's what you should look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Khorovats: This Armenian barbecue features marinated and grilled meat, usually pork, and is served with grilled vegetables or salad and lavash (flatbread).

• Khachapuri: One of the best lunch options across the Caucasus, these doughy cheese pastries come in several different delicious options.

• Dolma: Vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice and herbs, often served with a side of yoghurt.

Meat dishes

• Dzhash: Tender pieces of lamb cooked in a stew with vegetables and a variety of spices, creating a flavourful and warming dish.

• Khash: A hearty soup traditionally made from cow's feet, head and stomach, with garlic, vinegar and lavash.

Street food

• Zhingyalov Hats: A type of flatbread stuffed with a variety of finely chopped greens and herbs, then fried.

• Gata: Sweet, flaky bread with a range of fillings such as walnuts or khoriz (flour, butter and sugar), often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Sweets and desserts

• Baklava: Layers of filo pastry, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

• Pakhlava: A variation of baklava with a unique Armenian twist, often featuring walnuts and a more spiced flavour profile.

• Sudjukh: Sweet, sausage-shaped confection made with grape molasses and nuts, commonly enjoyed during festive seasons.

Local drinks

• Armenian brandy: Renowned worldwide, Armenian brandy is a must-try. It's smooth, rich and perfect for sipping.

• Wine: Armenia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Sample the local varieties, especially those from the Areni region.

• Tan: A refreshing, yoghurt-based drink, similar to buttermilk and often enjoyed with meals.