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

aerial view of city buildings during daytime — Photo by Levon Vardanyan on Unsplash

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):

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