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AsiaThe Best 25 Places to Visit in Armenia: The Transcontinental Wonders

The Best 25 Places to Visit in Armenia: The Transcontinental Wonders

Nestled at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Armenia is an enchanting country with a long, complex history and vibrant culture just waiting to be discovered. Here are 27 can’t-miss destinations you should add to your Armenian itinerary.

1. Republic Square, Yerevan

The heart of Yerevan, Republic Square is a popular gathering place featuring dancing fountains, lush gardens, and the iconic pink-stone Government House. Snap pics by the fountains with Mount Ararat in the background.  

2. Geghard Monastery 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medieval Geghard Monastery is an incredible sight partially carved into the Azat River Gorge’s mountain walls. Marvel at the intricate stonework and stunning acoustics inside the cave chambers. 

3. Lake Sevan

Formed by volcanoes, Lake Sevan is one of Eurasia’s largest alpine freshwater lakes. Relax on its beaches, explore old monasteries on the peninsula, or visit Sevanavank Monastery on its islands. 

4. Tatev Monastery

Reach this 9th century stone masterpiece on the “Wings of Tatev” – the world’s longest aerial tramway. Take in phenomenal views of Vorotan River gorge along the way.  

5. Selim Caravanserai 

Step back in time at this well-preserved 14th century inn that gave weary silk road travelers and their animals shelter for centuries as they journeyed between Europe and Asia. 

6. Amberd Fortress

The 7th century Amberd Fortress clings to the slopes of Mount Aragats, where you can explore its medieval palace, church, and baths while soaking in gorgeous mountain panoramas.   

7. Garni Temple 

 Armenia’s only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building, Garni Temple has incredible views over the Garni Gorge. Learn about its fascinating history, from Pagan worship to Soviet-era tourism. 

8. Khor Virap Monastery 

This iconic monastery backed by snow-capped Mount Ararat offers the classic shot of Noah’s Ark’s rumored final resting place. Also see the pit where Christianity’s first Armenian martyr was imprisoned.

9. Shikahogh Reserve   

Discover over 1,100 vibrant plant species, including exotic orchids, wild pear trees and showy rhododendrons, while hiking through Shikahogh – Armenia’s second largest forest reserve.

10. Jermuk  

Soak in warm mineral water pools or sample the town’s famed sparkling water in this forested spa town centered around cascading waterfalls and red stone canyons glowing at sunset.  

11. Haghpat Monastery

From its hilltop location, one of Armenia’s most beautiful medieval monasteries overlooks verdant Debed River canyon. Wander the complex and its ornate shrines before the stunning backdrop.  

12. Noravank  

Noravank’s gorgeous 13th century monastery, surrounded by rust-colored cliffs, has intricate stone-carved religious relief art to admire on its walls and arched-shaped Surb Karapet Church.

13. Tsaghkadzor 

A popular ski destination with slopes facing towering Mount Teghenis, Tsaghkadzor equally enchants off-season with its peak vistas, mineral springs, and cascading waterfalls set amidst lush green meadows. 

14. Lake Kari 

Formed inside an ancient volcano crater, breathtaking turquoise Lake Kari sits at almost 10,000 ft altitude, fringed by vibrant alpine wildflowers and sweet mountain grass meadows. 

15. Dilijan National Park  

Referred to as “Armenia’s little Switzerland”, the Dilijan National Park has dense forests, tranquil lakes, and charming villages connected by rejuvenating hiking trails. 

16. Sanahin Monastery   

Another Armenian monastery making UNESCO’s World Heritage list, 10th century Sanahin has intricate stone-carved khachkars – cross-stones –scattered amidst its relic filled chambers, churches, and academy.  

17. Yell Extreme Park  

Get your adrenaline pumping as you zipline over canyons, race downhill on bicycle trails or navigate aerial obstacle courses at this adventure park just outside Yerevan. 

18. Artsakh 

Historic Armenian churches, carved cross-stones, and ruined forts dot the landscape of Artsakh, a region with fiercely independent roots that provide glimpses into its rich but turbulent past. 

19. Goris  

Explore the cave dwellings carved right into sandstone cliffsides around Goris, a scenic town full of traditional stone houses, winding paths, and cozy guesthouses nestled into the surrounding gorges.  

20. Gladzor University  

Dating back to 1280, partly ruined 13th century Gladzor University was one of Armenia’s most prominent medieval universities with an old scriptorium and scenic forested location worth exploring today.

21. Amberd Fortress 

The 7th century mountaintop Amberd Fortress offers panoramas over the Byurakan Valley with views of snow-capped Mount Aragats from its ramparts – don’t miss its medieval palace and bathhouse ruins!   

22. Odzun Church

Another stunning example of ecclesial architecture, Odzun Church has intricate stone-carved decorative elements on its façade and the Katoghike Church built directly into the natural occurring rock with a carved portal.  

23. Saghmosavank  

Poetically set amidst a deep gorge sliced by the twisted Kasagh River, the 13th century cliff-clinging Saghmosavank Monastery and its religious buildings are near Aparan and another wonder of Armenian medieval architecture.  

24. Etchmiadzin Cathedral 

Considered Armenia’s Vatican City, Etchmiadzin Cathedral in Vagharshapat has been the headquarters of the Armenian Apostolic Church for over 16 centuries – don’t miss the museums in its intricate palace complex.  

25. Khoranashat Monastery  

Another Armenian treasure near the Turkish border, 12th century Khoranashat Monastery sits regally on a hilltop overlooking the Akhurian River featuring elaborate stonemason detail on its Surp Astvatsatsin church.  

Top 25 places to visit in Armenia (transcontinental – generally considered Asian):

  1. Republic Square, Yerevan
  2. Geghard Monastery
  3. Lake Sevan
  4. Tatev Monastery
  5. Selim Caravanserai
  6. Amberd Fortress
  7. Garni Temple
  8. Khor Virap Monastery
  9. Shikahogh Reserve
  10. Jermuk
  11. Haghpat Monastery
  12. Noravank
  13. Tsaghkadzor
  14. Lake Kari
  15. Dilijan National Park
  16. Sanahin Monastery
  17. Yell Extreme Park
  18. Artsakh
  19. Goris
  20. Gladzor University
  21. Amberd Fortress
  22. Odzun Church
  23. Saghmosavank
  24. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
  25. Khoranashat Monastery

References

[1] https://thebluntpost.com/15-spectacular-places-to-visit-in-armenia/ 

[2] https://mirrorspectator.com/2021/06/13/15-incredible-places-to-visit-in-armenia-plus-stay-eat-play/ 

[3] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g293932-Activities-Yerevan.html 

[4] https://www.dookinternational.com/blog/best-cities-in-armenia/ 

[5] https://www.thrillophilia.com/destinations/armenia/places-to-visit 




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