how to tour armenia

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary: 5 to 7 Days (or More!)

Last Updated on February 16, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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As one of the least-visited countries in Europe, Armenia can be viewed as an exotic destination that only the most intrepid of travellers would choose to visit. Because of this, there isn’t a lot of information about this South Caucasus nation available online and it can make planning the perfect Armenia itinerary a difficult task.

Because so many of those who do visit Armenia do it by organised tour, it can be very tricky to find the right information for those who want to visit this underrated country independently. Planning a trip to Armenia is one of the best decisions you could make, especially if you’re combining it with a trip through the other Caucasus countries of Georgia and Azerbaijan.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Armenia

Despite its relatively southern geographic location, Armenia very much experiences four proper seasons and, therefore, there are some times of year to visit this Caucasian nation that are better than others.

Winters in Armenia can be very cold, with high temperatures between the months of December-February barely clocking in above freezing. Luckily, however, the cold weather doesn’t tend to last too long as it will usually begin to warm up in the month of March and temperatures will fall into the low 20s Celcius (70s Fahrenheit) by April.

Because of this, travelling in the springtime is one of the best times of year to plan a trip to Armenia. Besides the tendency for a bit more rain, the temperatures will be mild and pleasant with it rarely getting too hot or too cold.

The Autumn seasons between September-November also see similar temperatures to Spring albeit with less rain, making that the absolute optimal time to visit Armenia.

Summers in Armenia are sunny and hot, with daily high temperatures often clocking in over 40 degrees Celcius (102 degrees Fahrenheit). Though many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants will be air-conditioned, this becomes less likely the further from big cities or tourist hotspots you venture.

It is also worth noting that public transport (like buses and marshrutkas) rarely are air-conditioned so it can get unbearably hot to travel from point A to B in the summer.

All in all, the best times to visit Armenia would likely be in the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November.

How Many Days in Armenia?

If you’re wondering how many days in Armenia is sufficient to get a good feel for the country but you’re strapped for time, we would recommend spending five days in this southern Caucasian nation. This will give you time to explore the lively capital of Yerevan, take a day trip into the surrounding area, and spend a couple of nights in a smaller city as well.

Spending 5 days in Armenia will allow you to get beyond the capital and experience the culture of this underrated travel destination without being too exhausting or taking too much time.

If you have longer, spending one week in Armenia is ideal to get a really good grasp of the country and a more well-rounded view of the culture and history of this beautiful nation.

With 7 days, you have time not only to explore the capital city, but you can head quite off the beaten path and take in the city of Gyumri and enjoy some of the beautiful nature that Armenia has to offer.

Getting Around Armenia

Armenia isn’t that highly-visited of a country and those who do venture to this underappreciated nation tend to do so on an organised tour, which means that figuring out how to get around independently can be a confusing and albeit daunting task for tourists.

Luckily, locals in Armenia tend to be extremely helpful and eager to lend a hand to confused visitors, so it is likely that you wouldn’t be stranded for too long if you couldn’t figure something out.

If you only plan to visit Yerevan while you explore Armenia, getting around the city is incredibly easy and manageable as the majority of the city’s main sites can be reached on foot and the city centre is compact and easy to navigate. Anything else that is not within walking distance is easy to get to with either the metro or an affordable taxi ride.

Taxi rides are accessible for most travellers in Yerevan and it can actually be the easiest way to get to some more out-of-the-way attractions within the city. It is worth knowing, however, that taxis throughout Armenia (and the Caucasus in general) don’t tend to have meters, so it is essential to negotiate a price before you get in.

Finding a cab through the Yandex taxi app or the Bolt app is a great option. This operates much in the same way as Uber and will quote you the exact price of the journey before you get in the cab, leaving out any need for stressful negotiations.

If you’re travelling outside of the capital — for example, from Yerevan to Dilijan , Gyumri, or Goris — there are a few options available for independent travellers. The easiest and most common option for inter-city travel in Armenia is by marshrutka, or minibus.

Depending on the popularity of your destination, marshrutkas have a vague schedule and generally depart when full or mostly full.

The destination of the bus will be posted in the front window and it will generally be in the Latin or Cyrillic alphabet if they are popular routes amongst tourists. If you can’t already, it can be helpful to learn the Cyrillic alphabet or learn what your destinations look like printed both in Cyrillic and in the Armenian alphabet.

You can find the most up-to-date bus timetables from tourist information centres or from your guesthouse, hostel, or hotel staff. Often, you might need to book a spot on the bus if there are only a finite number that leave per day. The tourist info centre or your accommodation can call and book these for you as well.

Generally speaking, you pay the driver for the ride, however, there are some routes where you buy a ticket at a counter instead. Don’t worry, they will let you know for your specific route.

Train travel does exist in Armenia, however, it isn’t all that well-developed and not every route is available. While the trains are not the most comfortable mode of transportation in Armenia, they tend to be more comfortable than a marshrutka and can be preferable if there an option for your route. Ticket prices vary, but they are quite affordable.

Another easy way to get around Armenia, especially if you’re on a tight schedule and not travelling on a tight budget, is to rent a car. Though the road quality may not be the best in some areas of the country, having your own car makes it easy to travel independently and to see some out-of-the-way attractions without having to rely on organised tours or being beholden to erratic bus schedules.

If you want to find great prices on car hire, you can rent private cars directly from locals through Local Rent .

5 to 7-Day Armenia Itinerary

Day 1 – yerevan.

Armenia’s dynamic capital city has been continuously inhabited for more than 2,800 years, however, it retains a modern and hip edge that cements itself firmly in the 21st century. With an easy-to-navigate city centre and a streetside cafe culture to rival Paris, Yerevan is one of the most logical places to begin your itinerary for Armenia.

Because it doesn’t have as much information written about as neighbouring capitals like Tbilisi or Baku , many people will ask themselves “is Yerevan worth visiting?” And the answer to this is a resounding “yes,” especially if you are planning a larger Caucasus itinerary and want to see how all three capitals differ.

If you trying to figure out how many days in Yerevan is best to get to know the city, then we would say three. Spend your first day in Yerevan in the city centre, enjoying the main sites and getting the lay of the land.

The current centre of Yerevan was designed in the 1920s by Armenian architect Alexander Tamanian and, as a planned city, it is much easier to navigate than the other two Caucasus capitals, with wide avenues and a logical setup to the streets.

Begin your morning at the impressive Cascade complex , a series of steps spanning seven floors where, from the top on a clear day, you can see spectacular views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat in the distance.

If the 572 steps of the complex seem daunting to you, there are a series of escalators inside that you can take to the top instead. These are free to use and are open every day. There are also some interesting art exhibitions inside to enjoy while you’re riding up. No doubt that visiting the Cascade complex is one of the best things to do in Armenia.

After enjoying the Cascade, walk a few hundred metres to see the imposing Armenian Opera building, also designed by Alexander Tamanian. While the building isn’t as impressive as the one you might find in Tbilisi, it is still a great example of Armenian neoclassical architecture.

The building consists of two concert halls: the Alexander Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet National Theatre and the Aram Khachaturian concert hall which is home to the Armenian Philharmonic.

You can purchase tickets to the opera, ballet, and symphony from ticket offices nearby for very affordable prices and it is a great way to support the arts and culture of Yerevan. Michael and I were able to get very good seats for the ballet for 6000 AMD (about $14 USD) per person.

Armenia is an incredibly Christian nation and it is an important part of the country’s identity, however, one of the most beautiful sites to see is the Blue Mosque , which isn’t a far walk from the Opera building. This Shia mosque is the only functioning mosque in the city and the courtyard and colourful dome are very much worth seeing.

After admiring the mosque, head to Republic Square , the main square in Yerevan. There is a beautiful fountain situated in front of the Armenian History Museum that, during summer evenings, is lit in different colours. The square is also surrounded by beautiful examples of Armenian neoclassical buildings in Yerevan’s iconic rose-hued stone, making it obvious as to why it is known as the “pink city.”

Now wander over to the Vernissage Market , a large open-air souvenir market that is the perfect place to find something unique to bring home to your friends and family.

Contrary to what you might find in tacky souvenir shops full of mass-produced magnets and pomegranate tchotchkes, here you can get local handicrafts like beautiful chess and backgammon boards, intricate silver jewellery, and much more. You will also be supporting local artisans by keeping traditional practices alive.

Your last stop for your first day in Yerevan should be at the St Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral . Opened in 2001 to mark the 1700th anniversary of Christianity in Armenia (which is believed to be the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion), this is the largest Armenian Apostolic church in the world and is truly spectacular to see.

Round out your sightseeing at Yerevan’s GUM Market , the central market hall of the Armenian capital. Though it isn’t as lively and chaotic as, say, the Green Bazaar in Kutaisi, Georgia , it is still a great way to see what locals eat and to sample some regionally sourced and produced treats while staying away from multinational supermarket chains.

End your first day in one of the great restaurants, cafes, or wine bars on Saryan Street. In Vino is a good choice if you want to choose from an extensive list of both local and international vintages paired with local meats and cheeses.

If you want something a bit more substantial, Tapastan is a great Armenian fusion restaurant. Alternatively, head over to the Cascade and enjoy some surprisingly delicious Thai food from Wine Republic , which was one of our favourite haunts in Yerevan.

If you want to explore more of the capital’s food scene, consider this food tour of Yerevan .

Where to Stay in Yerevan

Skyline Hotel Yerevan – If you’re looking for a well-located hotel to stay at in Yerevan, then this is a good option for you. This locally-run hotel has a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, is located within walking distance of most of Yerevan’s top attractions, and there is an option to add breakfast to your nightly rate.

Avenue ApartHotel – This aparthotel is an excellent option if you want your own place to stay in Yerevan while still having all of the nice amenities of a hotel. They have a range of both suites and rooms on offer along with plenty of perks to make your stay a great one.

Envoy Hostel – This hostel is one of the best places to stay in Yerevan for backpackers, budget and solo travellers alike. They have a range of dorm beds and private rooms available, helpful staff, clean facilities, and good common areas. They also provide day tours to other areas in Armenia at a discounted rate to their hostel guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Yerevan!

Day 2 – Yerevan

Your second day in Yerevan may be a bit more sombre and not quite as busy as the first, but will still give you a great insight into the history of the city and Armenia as a whole.

Begin your day by hopping in a taxi to the Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum, which is located a bit outside of the city centre. It will take about 10-15 minutes to get there.

The memorial and museum are free to enter and it is extremely well-curated and an incredibly powerful place to visit. When visiting Armenia, it is important to learn about the darkest part of its history where up to 1.5 million people were murdered.

There is also a garden in front of the museum with a tree planted for each foreign official who has officially recognised the atrocities carried out by the Ottomans in 1915-1923 as a genocide. There is also a plaque honouring the countries and the European Union that have officially recognised the Armenian Genocide.

After visiting the memorial and museum, it is likely you will need a drink and it isn’t an easy place to spend time in. Therefore, take a taxi to Dargett Brewpub , a microbrewery which serves up some fantastic craft beers along with some fantastic western-style bar food.

If you can’t decide which kind of beer to order, we recommend ordering a tasting flight. Our favourites included the American Pale Ale, the Vertigo IPA, and the Belgian Tripel.

Those who aren’t beer drinkers may, instead, be interested in a tour and tasting of Ararat Brandy . This is Armenia’s answer to cognac and it is very delicious.

After a beer and some lunch, head to the History Museum of Armenia at Republic Square. Though, as of May 2019, parts of this museum are under construction, it is still a great place to stop by to learn more about the history of Armenia beyond that genocide.

The museum is famous for being home to the world’s oldest shoe, which was found in a cave in the south of the country called Areni-2, or the “bird’s cave.”

After the history museum, if you’re keen to learn more about Yerevan from a local’s perspective, we recommend going on the Yerevan Free Walking Tour , which meets every day at 4 PM in front of the museum.

The tour is about 3 hours long and advance booking is required, however, it is an excellent way to learn about Yerevan’s history and culture from a friendly and knowledgeable local. There is also this paid walking tour if this schedule suits you better.

Finish your day with dinner at one of the restaurants recommended on Day 1.

Day 3 – Yerevan

On your third day, it is time to get out of Yerevan and see some of the surrounding area. There are a number of day trip options from Yerevan that are all fairly easy to organise, whether independently or via organised tour.

Two of the most popular day trips from Yerevan include heading to the nearby town of Garni , home to the ancient Garni Temple – the only surviving pagan temple in the country that’s datesw ot pre-Christian times.

You can also view the bizarre rock formations known as the Symphony of Stones and the beautiful Geghard Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nature lovers will also love seeing the Garni Gorge.

It takes about 30 minutes to get there via marshrutka. You can also visit these places on this day tour or this day tour .

The city of Etchmiadzin (Vagharshapat) is also an easy-to-do independent day trip from Yerevan. This town is known as the “Vatican of Armenia” and is the home of the Armenian Apostolic Church, which is a separate church from the Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican churches.

It is also home to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, which is believed to be the oldest cathedral not just in Armenia, but in the entire world. You can also view the ruins of the Zvartnots Cathedral here.

Bus 203 from the Central Bus Station will get you there and back with limited expense and hassle. Those who would rather visit with a guide will like this guided day tour .

If you’re keen to explore more of Armenia beyond just the areas near to Yerevan, then the easiest way to do this is by organised tour. Some popular places to visit in Armenia as day trips from Yerevan include the Khor Virap Monastery , the Noravank Monastery , the Hin Areni Winery , or even Tatev Monastery .

We were altogether happy with our full-day tour to Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni, and the Bird’s Cave. Different tours depart on different days, so make sure to shop around and see what suits your schedule and what you want to see in Armenia if you’re keen to take a tour.

Day 4 – Dilijan

After spending a busy three days in Yerevan, it’s time to head to the next destination on your Armenia itinerary: Dilijan.

Known as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” Dilijan is located just a 90-minute marshrutka ride from Yerevan, however, it feels like a different world. Dilijan is a great escape from the city and a fantastic place to spend a couple of days enjoying the laid-back mountain atmosphere, going for a few hikes, or taking a trip to some nearby monasteries.

While there aren’t a lot of traditional sites to see or things to do in Dilijan, it is still a great place to visit to see a different side to Armenia and to enjoy the pastoral side of the country. The town itself is delightful, with a lovely lake and plenty of great restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

Plan to spend an hour or two exploring the town itself and then take the rest of your day to go for a hike in Dilijan National Park. The tourist information centre in the town outlines several hiking trails of varying difficulties where you can really get out and enjoy the pristine nature of Armenia regardless of your general fitness level.

If you’d rather stay in Yerevan but still experience the highlights of the next two days of this itinerary, then this day tour and this guided tour will take you from the capital to both Dilijan and Lake Sevan.

Where to Stay in Dilijan

Green Dilijan B&B – This family-run guesthouse is an excellent choice for budget travellers. They have a few rooms available, a cosy common area for guests, and a lovely balcony with views of the mountains. It is kept very clean and the extremely friendly and helpful owners also offer an excellent breakfast for an additional charge.

Chalet Dilijan Hotel – This hotel is a great option if your budget accounts for a bit more than a family-run guesthouse. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available for all types of travellers and breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places in Dilijan!

Day 5 – Lake Sevan

Using Dilijan as a base, use the fifth day of your time in Armenia to head to beautiful Lake Sevan. As one of the largest alpine lakes in the entirety of the Eurasian continent and certainly the largest in the region, Lake Sevan is a gorgeous place to visit that is steeped in history.

It’s only a little bit over 30 minutes to reach Sevan town from Dilijan – if you don’t have your own car, you can organise an affordable taxi to reach the area. Your accommodation can often arrange this for you.

One of the highlights of visiting this area is the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery, located on a small peninsula just north of the town. Sevan is also a popular resort area for Armenians to holiday in and there are several beaches along the shore of the lake where you can take a dip in the water.

Another thing you must do is try the famed Sevan trout – an Armenian delicacy. There is a lot of trout fished from the lake and lots of restaurants feature the fish prominently on their menus.

If you’re only spending five days exploring Armenia, then you can easily end your time by heading back to Yerevan and flying out or continuing onward to Tbilisi if you’re interested in exploring neighbouring Georgia.

Day 6 – Dilijan to Gyumri

Your sixth day exploring Armenia is going to be a bit of a travel day as you make your way from Dilijan to Armenia’s second-largest city of Gyumri.

There are no direct bus connections between these two towns so you have a couple of options. From Dilijan, hop on a marshurtka to the town of Vanadzor or Spitak and catch a connecting mini bus to Gyumri. Alternatively, you can travel south back to Yerevan and then either grab a marshrutka or, our preference, a train to Gyumri.

The train from Yerevan to Gyumri is especially fun for fans of old Soviet transport as they haven’t been updated in decades and can offer quite an insight into the past. The scenery you will pass is also simply delightful as you travel through the Armenian countryside.

Once you arrive in Gyumri, no matter how you’ve arrived, spend your evening simply getting your bearings and exploring a bit of the city centre before finding a great place for dinner.

Where to Stay in Gyumri

Lind Hostel & Guesthouse – This family-run guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Gyumri if you’re travelling on a budget. They have a range of comfortable rooms available, a fully equipped kitchen for guests to use, and impeccably clean facilities. It is located an easy walk from the city centre and breakfast is available and an affordable additional cost. The owners are also incredibly friendly and ready to help.

Tomu’s Hotel – If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel rather than a guesthouse, then this is an excellent option for you. Centrally located, this hotel has a range of rooms available, helpful staff with 24-hour reception, and a restaurant and bar on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Gyumri!

Day 7 – Gyumri

In the past, Gyumri has been known as both Alexandropol (when it was part of the Russian Empire) and Leninakan (during Soviet times) and was once the largest city in Armenia — at its peak being home to over 500,000 people. However, the city was absolutely devastated by the Spitak Earthquake in 1988, which killed at least 25,000 people.

More than 30 years later, Gyumri is still recovering and rebuilding from the devastation and can seem a bit “rough around the edges,” meaning it isn’t the most popular tourist attraction in Armenia. However, if you want to see how people live in Armenia and venture where few tourists tend to go, Gyumri is an excellent addition to your Armenia itinerary.

Though it is lacking in traditional tourist sites, it is still worth strolling to the Black Fortress , through the Central Park , and enjoying one of the wonderful cafes on Pushkin Street (we recommend Herbs & Honey ).

Depending on if you’re only visiting Armenia or if you’re travelling onwards, you may want to return to Yerevan to fly out of the country. Alternatively, there is a marshrutka that can take you from Gyumri to Tbilisi if you’re heading to Georga or elsewhere in the Caucasus.

Alternatively, if you weren’t able to see some of the sites in the Armenian countryside, you could take this transfer tour from Yerevan to Tbilisi which includes several great stops along the way.

Have More Time?

If you have more than five or seven days in Armenia, there are numerous places that you could add to your itinerary. For one, if you’re keen to spend maybe 10 days in Armenia, it is logical to add the town of Goris and Tatev Monastery to your itinerary.

At Tatev, you can embark on one of the world’s longest cable car journeys and take in some truly gorgeous natural scenery.

You could also opt to spend longer in Yerevan, explore more of the city or go on a couple more day trips or tours from there. If you want to do more hiking in Armenia, then spending longer will allow you to do that as well without sacrificing any of the cultural and historical sites on this itinerary as well.

As an independent traveller, planning a trip to Armenia doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With enough prior research and planning, you are sure to piece together the optimal itinerary for your own travel style!

Are you spending some time in Armenia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to Get From Yerevan to Dilijan & Things To Do In Dilijan

The Perfect Georgia-Armenia-Azerbaijan Itinerary

Armenia to Georgia: Gyumri to Tbilisi & Dilijan to Tbilisi

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Excellent and explained in simple language. Thanks

hi, thank you for this informative piece, im also planning on visiting Georgia, would u happen to have any knowledge of Georgia too tia

Hi Daniel! Yes, we’ve spent quite a bit of time in Georgia and have a lot of information written. You can find everything here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/georgia-travel-guide/

brilliant thank you very much indeed

Hi Maggie, Nice article written on Armenia… I am on my vacation with my family to Georgia in May. Planning 7 days in Georgia and and 5 days in Armrnia.. Is it possible to cover the nb best of Armenia

Thanks for your comment! Yes, you can definitely see some highlights in Armenia in just 5 days 🙂

Hello Maggie, thanks for this post. I am heading to Armenia and Georgia late September/early October. I already have a plan for Georgia, but for Armenia not so much. In particular, there are 4 free days after spending the weekend in Yerevan that I am not sure how best to plan for. I would like to visit Tatev, so really that limits me to the south. What would you recommend? I’m probably going to stick with public transport, renting a car is a possibility but I’m a bit nervous about that when I’m traveling on my own.

Hey David, thanks for your comment! If you want to visit Tatev and you have 4 days to play around with, then I think it could be worth it to head down to Goris. It isn’t necessary to hire a car as Goris is accessible by public transit, it can just be tricky to find up-to-date information online. I would recommend heading to a tourist info centre or asking your accommodation about transit options if you don’t want to self-drive, often they can call and book you a seat as well. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!

Thanks Maggie for the swift reply. I was wondering what else you would recommend between Goris and Yerevan , in that 4 day timeframe? What would be realistic, if only using public transport? At the end of the 4th day I’d need to be back in Yerevan, for a tour that takes me through to Georgia that starts the following day (with Envoy Hostel).

Realistically, if you’re relying on only public transport, I would recommend staying one extra day in Yerevan and doing a day tour to some attractions in Southern Armenia (Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni, etc) and then taking three days for your Goris/Tatev leg. It can be really hard to visit those attractions independently if you don’t have your own vehicle and it’s also not very easy to break up the journey between Yerevan and Goris.

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Wander-Lush

Visit Armenia: The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide

• The Caucasus

I think that Yerevan, which is built from volcanic tuff and is harmonic like a rose, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Pablo Neruda

The Land of Apricots

From the Pink City, Yerevan , to the charcoal-and-gold Gyumri ; the emerald Debed Canyon to the sapphire Lake Sevan – Armenia is a country of vivid colours. The smallest of the three Trans-Caucasus nations, it holds its own in terms of history, hiking, food and wine.

Forged in the fires of a tumultuous past, Armenian culture is one of the most fascinating on earth. Every day in Armenia is a brush with history, from the Khachkar cross stones that sit proudly in Yerevan’s city park and mark the way to monasteries across the country, to Armenian cuisine, costume, music, and the alphabet itself.

Travelling around Armenia with snow-capped Mount Ararat as your North Star is truly one of life’s great privileges. This is one country I’ll keep coming back to for the rest of my days.

Armenia travel essentials

Please note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more .

April/May (spring) or September/October. Summer for trekking.

How long in Armenia?

2 full days for Yerevan; 10 days for the highlights; 2-3 weeks to see everything.

Daily budget

35-50 USD per person per day (mid-range hotel; local meals; day tours; museum tickets).

Getting there

Fly into Yerevan or Gyumri; marshrutka/train from Georgia or Iran.

Armenia visa

Visa-free or e-visa (90-180 days) for most passports.

Getting around

Hire a car; use marshrutka vans and trains.

Where to stay

Hostels, family-run guesthouses or hotels.

Tours & experiences

City walking tours, wine tastings and monasteries.

Where to go in Armenia

The perfect Armenia itinerary starts with a few days in Yerevan , a lively city of outdoor cafes, sculpture gardens and buzzing squares. Watch the lavash ladies at work at the GUM Market , and rifle through carpets and antiques at the Vernissage as you hunt for the perfect Armenian souvenir .

There’s a good chance this will be your first real encounter with the Armenian Genocide – an unspeakable atrocity that much of the world seems to have forgotten. Tsitsernakaberd , the national Genocide Memorial and museum, is a must-visit.

Contrast Yerevan with the nation’s second-largest city, Gyumri , known for its lofty architecture and house museums. Visit Vanadzor in the north and Goris in the south, both gateways to incredible nature. Spend a day on sparkling Lake Sevan , Armenia’s jewel, spend a night at the Soviet-era Sevan Writers’ House , find solitude in Dilijan National Park , home to the country’s best hiking trails.

The world’s first Christian nation, Armenia boasts dozens of monasteries and churches, each one more impressive than the last. Khor Virap , Noravank , Geghard and the mighty Tatev , accessed by soaring cable car, can all be visited on day trips from Yerevan. UNESCO-listed Haghpat and Sanahin are my personal favourites.

Along with neighbouring Georgia, Armenia is the cradle of viniculture, so a wine tasting in the Areni Region should also be on your agenda. The Armenian table is one that has been laid over the course of many centuries. Every city, town and small village offers its own incredible cuisine , making this country a real treat for foodies.

Explore Armenia

Get to the heart of Armenia with my latest travel guides.

A Night at the Sevan Writers’ House: What It’s Like to Stay at Armenia’s Iconic Soviet Hotel

How to Travel by Overnight Sleeper Train from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Vice Versa)

10 Things to Do at Lake Sevan in Armenia

30 Awesome Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

12 Things to Do in Gyumri, Armenia’s Historic Second City

The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary for 3-10 Days of Travel

My armenia favourites.

The Transcaucasian Trail in Dilijan National Park.

Must-eat meal

Dolma , lavash and a Ponchik (filled donut) to finish.

local experience

Shopping for apricots at the GUM Market in Yerevan.

best souvenir

An Armenian carpet from the Vernissage market.

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Armenia Itinerary – what to see in Armenia in 3-14 days

Are you thinking about visiting Armenia but don’t know how to plan your days there? Or maybe you’ve already booked your tickets but need help with figuring out your Armenia itinerary. I’m here to help!

I’ve been to Armenia some ten times by now and every trip to Armenia is a pure joy to me. The country is fascinating with its amazing monuments, beautiful landscape, and vibrant and cosmopolitan capital – Yerevan . I bet you will not regret your decision to travel to Armenia!

Armenia essentials

Planning a trip to Armenia? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
• Get insured for your trip to Armenia with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

How many days should you spend in Armenia?

I personally think that 3 or 4 days is the absolute minimum for Armenia. But sometimes that’s all you have and even in those few days you can see a variety of sights in Armenia.

You can spend two weeks in Armenia and you will still leave the country feeling there are still places to visit in Armenia you missed.

The Armenia itinerary I present below is a suggestion for 3 to 14 days in Armenia and you can adjust it to your needs.

I personally think the best time to visit Armenia is either in spring or in early autumn. Days are still long enough to use them to the maximum but it’s not so hot.

In the summertime, the temperatures can be even over 40C which makes sightseeing a bit of a challenge. Winters are not THAT cold, usually around and a bit below 0C degrees, but days are short and you won’t be able to see as much as you would like to.

The New Year and Christmas period (in Armenia Christmas is celebrated on January 6th) are a bit tough as the majority of things (museums, cafes, restaurants, shops) are closed for the holidays.

Is Armenia safe?

Yes! Most of my trips to Armenia were solo and I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable (but things do happen, of course). Just use the general rule and don’t do stupid things you wouldn’t do at home.

The biggest challenge might be roads and crazy drivers, however, if you are familiar with driving in this part of the world Armenia is nothing worse than that. Armenia also might have the issue with corruption and bribery but this is getting better too.

The recent war with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh shook Armenia but didn’t really worsen the safety in the country. But before planning the trip to Armenia better check the news as the peace in the region is rather fragile these days.

As always I recommend getting travel insurance as you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can get a quote here.

How to get around Armenia?

Unfortunately, public transport in Armenia is a bit nonexistent, except for bigger cities, and most of the best places to visit in Armenia are located in remote areas. You can rent a car to drive around but it can be rough, especially in the southern part of the country when the roads are not in the best condition.

Fortunately, it is possible to visit Armenia without renting a car and see all the best sights – there are good and affordable tours available, in some places you can also rent a car with the driver. I will mention all the details in the Armenian itinerary below so you will know how to plan your trip to Armenia properly.

The good thing about visiting Armenia is that you can actually base yourself in Yerevan and go for day trips from the capital. You can see a lot of great places this way and you won’t need to bother with packing and unpacking every second day.

Armenia travel tips

While Armenia isn’t a very difficult country to visit from a cultural and practical point of view, there are a few things worth knowing before you travel to Armenia. I wrote the whole article with Armenia travel tips – click here to read it (the link will open in the new window).

Armenia itinerary

Day 1 – yerevan.

Most likely you will start your trip to Armenia in Yerevan – the capital city. You can easily get here overland from Tbilisi (Georgia) and Teheran (Iran) or fly from many other destinations in Europe and the Middle East.

There are not too many major sights in Yerevan and if you are hoping to see a cute old town with beautiful houses you might be disappointed. But the city has so much to offer and the list of things to do in Yerevan is pretty long.

On your first day take it easy, relax, and enjoy the amazing vibrant atmosphere Yerevan is known for. Visit the Cascade – the impressive staircase, one of the main attractions of the city. Inside it, you can find Cafesjian Museum of Art but even if you don’t decide to visit the museum you will still be able to see a lot of art as the whole area of Cascade is full of numerous modern art works.

If you are too lazy to climb the stairs you can find the escalator that will take you to the top of the Cascade – it’s free of charge and when riding it up (or down) you can still admire some nice art. From the Cascade, you can see the best view of Yerevan and, if you are lucky, the iconic Mount Ararat – the holy mountain of Armenians that is located in Turkey.

From the Cascade, it’s a short walk to Matendaran – the amazing museum of Armenian manuscripts, the largest one of that kind in the world with 13 thousand manuscripts, the oldest one from the 5th century. This is one of the most precious treasures of the Armenian culture.

Head towards the Freedom Square with the Opera House. It was opened in 1933 and is one of the main cultural institutions in the city. If you wish to get tickets for the show, you can do it in the ticket office outside of the Opera, at Sayat Nova Avenue. The area around the Opera is full of small cafes and you might want to sit here for a coffee break.

Continue your Yerevan sightseeing through Northern Avenue -the main pedestrian street of the city and a real showcase of modern Yerevan, with some fancy shops, restaurants, and more. At the end of Northern Avenue, you will arrive at Abovyan street with its old houses – one of the reminders of how old Yerevan used to look like.

Only a few more steps and you are on the Republic Square – the main square of the city, with the History Museum of Armenia, government buildings, bank headquarters, and fancy Marriott Hotel.

If you would like to do some souvenirs shopping head to the nearby Vernissage – the open-air market with a wide selection of Armenian souvenirs.

Near the Vernissage, you will find Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. It is pretty new, finished in 2001, but it surely is an impressive building, even if a bit raw at the edges. This is actually the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the world.

In the evening return to the Republic Square for the kitschy yet cool dancing fountains show. Be sure to walk along Northern Avenue again to see how the city is alive until the late-night hours.

Where to stay in Yerevan

Here are some of the recommended places to stay in Yerevan:

• Budget: Highland Hostel (9.8/10) / Duck Hostel (9.6/10) / Loft Host (9.5/10)
• Mid-range: R&R Hotel (9.2/10) / Nova Hotel Yerevan (9.2/10) / Teryan Pushkin Apart Hotel (9.5/10)
• Luxury: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel (9.2/10) / Grand Hotel Yerevan (9.2/10) / Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan (9.2/10)

Yerevan tours

If you would like to join a tour to get to know Yerevan better here are some of the recommended ones:

• The Magic and Secrets of Yerevan Walking Tour
• Private Yerevan City Tour: Erebuni, Matenadaran & Tsitsernakaberd Museums
• Photo tour in Yerevan

Yerevan travel resources

Here are some articles you might find useful when planning your time in Yerevan (all links open in new windows):

• Yerevan travel tips – all you need to know about visiting Yerevan, Armenia
• 31 Amazing Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia
• Guide to the Cascade in Yerevan – City’s Biggest Attraction
• Guide to Yerevan Soviet architecture
• Reasons to visit Yerevan, Armenia – one of my favorite cities

You might also start your trip to Armenia in Gyumri, since the city has direct bus connections with Georgia ( Tbilisi and Akhaltsikhe). Soon there might be low-cost flights to Gyumri too, they were supposed to start operating in 2020 but 2020 happened.

If you arrive there first use the “day 5” of this Armenia itinerary as your first one and then continue your trip to Yerevan.

Day 2 – Yerevan

On your second day in Yerevan head to Tsitsernakaberd – the Armenian Genocide Memorial to visit the museum, learn more about the awful genocide, and pay the respect to 1,5 million victims. It’s not an easy place to visit but I believe everyone visiting Yerevan should learn about this part of the Armenian history to better understand the country.

Tsitsernakaberd is located a bit away from the center, the best way to get here is by taxi (Yandex Taxi is the best app to travel around Yerevan).

Armenia is known for its brandy and you can take the tour in the brandy factory to learn more about the drink and to taste it.

Not far from the Ararat brandy factory you can visit the Museum of Sergei Parajanov – the famous Soviet movie director of Armenian origins. Even if you are not familiar with his works it’s still a fun place to see!

Nearby you can also stop at the Blue Mosque – the only working mosque in Armenia. It is a beautiful building from the 18th century and its surrounding is a perfect green oasis from the hustle and bustle of the busy city.

In the afternoon you might take the taxi to Victory Park to see the statue of Mother Armenia, enjoy the fairground and see some spectacular views of the city.

Day 3 – Day trip to Geghard and Garni

It’s time to go for some day trips from Yerevan.

The most famous Armenia attractions and easy day trips from Yerevan are Lake Sevan, Garni Temple, and Geghard Monastery. You can see them all in one day (however, if you are spending more time in Armenia leave Lake Sevan for later – you can find it again at the end of this itinerary).

Lake Sevan is one of the highest located lakes in the world with an altitude of 1.900 meters above sea level. It is such a beautiful place but that’s not the only reason to go there. At the shore of the lake you can visit Noratus – the cemetery with beautiful khachkars (Armenian tombstones, some of them are from the 9th century), monasteries Sevanavank and Hayravank, and Writer’s House – one of the most famous examples of Soviet architecture in Armenia.

Garni temple was built in the 1st century AD and is the pagan temple dedicated to the sun god Mihr. This is the best example of the pre-Christian Armenia monuments and the only building in the Classical style in the country and the former Soviet Union.

Garni Temple was destroyed during the earthquake in the 17th century but the original stones were used when rebuilding. Around the temple, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Armenian countryside.

Some 10 kilometers further you will visit Geghard Monastery – the UNESCO listed complex from the 4th century. What makes it special is the fact that many of the churches and tombs were cut into the rock, showing the Armenian medieval architecture at its best.

Since the 12th century, when the relicts of Apostles Andrew and John were donated to the monastery, the place became a popular pilgrim destination.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to visit all these places by public transport. Your best option is the tour from Yerevan. Here are some of the recommended tours that cover these places (and a few more):

• Day Trip to Garni, Gegard and Lake Sevan
• Day Tour to Garni Geghard Armenia
• Private tour to Garni – Geghard – Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis)

Day 4 – Monasteries Noravank and Khor Virap

These two monasteries are some of the most beautiful places you will see in Armenia.

If you’ve seen Armenia pictures showing the small monastery with the impressive Mount Ararat in the background – that’s Khor Virap. If you are lucky with the weather this is a truly spectacular view.

Khor Virap is also a popular pilgrimage site due to the fact that Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here by King Tiridates III of Armenia. Today you can go down the ladder to the dungeons where the Saint spent 14 years.

Noravank Monastery is located at the end of a deep canyon with moon-like orange and red rocks. The monastery complex dates back to the 13th century and today you can visit twelve different objects there, including two-floors Surb Astvatsatsin Church, Surb Karapet Church, and Surb Grigor Chapel as well as numerous khachkars. This is a truly spectacular site and you don’t want to miss it!

Besides monasteries, you can also visit Areni village, only a few kilometers away from the Noravank monastery. That’s where the oldest wine in the world comes from – the wine tradition here is over 6.000 years old! Besides the traditional wine, you can also try the one made from pomegranate, apricot, cherries, or blackberries.

Again, public transport doesn’t cover these places so the tour is your best option. Here are some of the tours that include Noravank, Khor Virap and Areni:

• Private Tour: Khor Virap, Areni, Noravank
• Privat Tour in Khor Virap church, Areni winery free tasting, Noravank church

Day 5 – Gyumri

After visiting monasteries and natural wonders it’s time for the city again. Gyumri – the second largest city in Armenia – is located in the north-east part of the country, some 120 kilometers away from Yerevan, and it makes such an easy day trip from the capital.

In 1988 Gyumri was hit by a massive earthquake – the loss was enormous – around 40.000 people lost lives and most of the city was badly destroyed. Still today you can see remnants of these tragic events all over the city but Gyumri is recovering.

The city is different than Yerevan but such an interesting place to visit. You can see here another Mother Armenia statue (besides the one in Yerevan) as well as other interesting places: museums, churches, a bazaar, and some cool Soviet sculptures. Click here to learn more about things to do in Gyumri.

Gyumri is such a pleasant city to visit you might want to stay there overnight. If you do, here are some recommended accommodation options:

• Armine’s B&B (9.8/10)
• Guest House in Gumri (9.8/10)
• Berlin Art Hotel (9.2/10)
• Tomu’s Hotel (9.2/10)

You can use public transport to get from Yerevan to Gyumri. There are both, trains and minibusses connecting the cities. Here you can find a detailed guide on how to travel from Yerevan to Gyumri.

Day 6 – Monasteries Sanahin and Haghpat

These two monasteries are located in the north part of the country, in Lori Region , and are the real gems of Armenia. Both are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and both are simply incredible.

Haghpat Monastery was built between the 10th and 13th centuries and in the Middle Ages, it used to play an important role as the religious, spiritual, educational, cultural, and scientific center. The monastery complex is surrounded by medieval walls. Inside you can find four churches, the library, the bell tower, the tomb, and numerous khachkars.

The nearby Sanahin Monastery was built at a similar time and for a similar purpose as Haghpat. In the monastery complex, there are 16 buildings and objects, including St. Gregory and St. Harutyun chapels as well as numerous khachkars decorated mostly in plants’ motives.

On the way to the monasteries, you can see the Monument of the Armenian Alphabet, located randomly on the side of the road. The Armenian alphabet is unique (and very beautiful) and used only in Armenia. 39 giant Armenian letters carved of the stone and decorated in the local motifs are strewn around and are such fun things to see and admire. The monument was created in 2005, to commemorate the 1600th birthday of the Armenian alphabet.

Again, public transport is not available to get to the monasteries but you can go for a tour from Yerevan (some of them include the stop at the Monument of Armenian Alphabet). Here are the tours that cover these places:

• Armenia: Discover Odzun, Akhtala and UNESCO Heritage listed Haghpat & Sanahin
• Private tour to Haghpat, Sanahin, Odzun, Dsegh

Day 7 – Goris and Tatev Monastery

Today you will leave Yerevan to explore the southern part of the country. Take the minibus to Goris to see the city and its surroundings. Aim for the earlier departure to have enough time when you arrive in Goris, some 4-5 hours away from Yerevan

After arriving and leaving your stuff at your accommodation try to arrange the car that would take you to Tatev Monastery (or maybe ask your accommodation to help you with it?). It is located around 35 kilometers away from Goris and you should expect to pay around 2.500-3.000 AMD one way for a trip from the city to the cable car station.

The cable-car trip is already an interesting experience – it is listed on the Guinness World Records as the longest non-stop double track cable car in the world (it covers the distance of 5.752 meters from Halidzor village to Tatev monastery).

Tatev Monastery is one of the most picturesque places in Armenia. The monastery from the early 9th century was built at the edge of the deep gorge and it looks simply breathtaking. Tatev Monastery used to be the seat of a bishop, that’s also where at the end of the 14th century the biggest university in Southern Caucasus was established, teaching students numerous sciences.

In the monastery complex, you can visit three churches (Saints Paul and Peter, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, and Holy Mother of God), a library, refectory, bell tower, mausoleum.

If you still have time head to Carahunge – the prehistoric archaeological site, often called “the Armenian Stonehenge”. It consists of 223 massive stones (84 of them have a circle hole drilled in the upper part) and is one of the most mysterious places in the country. Carahunge is located around 35 km away from both Halidzor village and Goris.

How to get from Yerevan to Goris

There are two daily minibuses from Yerevan to Goris, departing from the Southern Bus Station, at 09:00 and 16:00. They tend to fill up quickly so better ask your accommodation to reserve a seat for you a day before.

Where to stay in Goris

Here are the recommended places to stay in Goris:

• Hayi Tun Guest House (9.7/10)
• Lara Hotel (9.3/10)
• Narek B&B (9.5/10)

If you are running out of time in Armenia you might go to Tatev monastery as a day trip from Yerevan. It will be a long tour but Tatev is one of a kind place that you can’t miss. You can combine it with other places too.

Here are some tours you might want to take:

• Private Tour to Areni winery, Tatev (ropeway), Khndzoresk (cave city)
• Tatev,Shaki(waterfall),Noravank,Wine tasting,Khor Virap
• Tatev Ropeway and Monastery, Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni Winery – private tour

Day 8 – Goris and Khndzoresk

Even if the main reason to stay in Goris is the surrounding nature, the city itself also has a few attractions, such as St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, Aksel Bakunts House-Museum or the Geological Museum. But places you absolutely can’t miss in and around Goris are Medieval Cave Dwellings and the village Khndzoresk with the shaking bridge leading to it.

Click here to read more about Goris and its surrounding.

Day 9 – Jermuk

On the way back to Yerevan you might want to do a small detour to the mountain spa town Jermuk, famous for its mineral waters. This is a perfect place to relax a bit in the beautiful scenery.

While there don’t miss the stunning Jermuk waterfall and Gndevank Monastery, be sure to ride a cable car and simply enjoy the vibe of the spa town and all it has to offer.

Unfortunately, reaching Jermuk from Goris is almost impossible so, unless you are not driving yourself, you might need to find a driver to take you there. There are a few marshrutkas per day that will take you back to Yerevan.

Day 10 – Return to Yerevan

After returning from Jermuk to Yerevan you can still go to nearby Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots.

Etchmiadzin (or Vagharshapat as that’s the official name of the city) is the spiritual capital of Armenia where you can visit the Ethcmiadzin Cathedral – one of the oldest churches in the world, built between 301-303 (it was rebuilt and expanded in future centuries but the church still stands in the very same place). Echmiadzin with its numerous churches was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

On the way from Yerevan to Echmiadzin, you should stop at Zvartnots archeological site (also on UNESCO list). The cathedral was built here in the 7th century but its remnants were discovered only at the very beginning of the 20th century. Besides excavated ruins, on a sunny day you can also enjoy stunning views of Mount Ararat in the background.

Here are some of the tours that cover Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots:

• Private tour to Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots
• Private tour to UNESCO heritage Echmiadzin churches, Zvartnots and Sardarapat

If you don’t feel like visiting new places on that day you can just take it easy, stay in Yerevan and enjoy the capital with its vibrant cafe scene and some cool bars – there are so many great spots to choose from.

Days 11-13 Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park

The last places you should visit in Armenia are Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park, located north of Yerevan, not too far from the city. You can actually visit both as (separate) day trips but if you have the extra time it’s worth staying there a bit longer to enjoy the area.

Lake Sevan, the biggest lake in the Caucasus, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country and part of the Sevan National Park. It is known for the variety of flora and fauna, including the most famous Sevan trout. There are also a few monuments you can visit (you can find them on day three of this itinerary).

If you are traveling in the summertime you might want to spend the whole day at Lake Sevan, not only visiting the interesting sights but also relaxing at one of the beaches.

From Lake Sevan, it’s a short drive to Dilijan – a charming town often called “the little Switzerland of Armenia”. There are plenty of things to see and do in and near the town, including impressive monasteries (like Haghartsin and Goshavank) and hiking in the stunning Dilijan National Park with numerous trails and beautiful and diverse nature.

How to get there from Yerevan

Minibusses to both Sevan and Dilijan depart from the Northern Bus station in Yerevan frequently, when they fill up. Just keep in mind that the town of Sevan is located a few kilometers from the lake itself and you will have to take a taxi to get there. You might also get a taxi to Lake Sevan directly from Yerevan.

Where to stay in Dilijan

Here are the recommended accommodation options in Dilijan:

• Ariana Family Hotel (9.5/10)
• Casanova Inn – Boutique Hotel (9.4/10)
• Verin Tun (9.6/10)

You might also go for a day trip only from Yerevan to Dilijan. Here are the options:

• Private tour to Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)
• Private tour to Dilijan (Goshavank, Parz (Crystal) Lake, Haghartsin)

Day 14 – Yerevan

On your last day in Armenia, you can visit Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots Cathedral, if you haven’t done that yet.

Or you can just hang out in Yerevan, relax in the Lovers’ Park, do some shopping at GUM or Vernissage, look at Mount Ararat from the Cascade complex yet again and enjoy some amazing Armenian food for the last time during your stay in the country!

Other versions of Armenia itinerary

Even if you don’t have two weeks in Armenia you can see a lot of the country. Here is how you can plan your Armenia itinerary with fewer days available:

• if you have only 3-4 days in Armenia you can spend 1-2 days in Yerevan, one day on a day trip to Lake Sevan+Gerhard+Garni, and one day on a day trip to Khor Virap and Noravank
• if you have a week in Armenia you can add to the suggestion above a day trip to Gyumri and two days in the southern part of the country (Goris and surrounding area), or a day trip to Tatev monastery and a day trip to Haghpat and Sanahin
• if you have 10 days in Armenia you can use the detailed itinerary above but skip Jermuk, go to Dilijan only for one day, visit Lake Sevan together with Geghard and Garni and cut the last day in Yerevan from the plan

Final thoughts on visiting Armeneia

As you can see there is plenty to do and see in Armenia and no matter how many days you will have there you are in for a treat. The country is simply amazing with its history, culture, stunning landscape, friendly people, and vibrant capital.

I believe Armenia is one of the most underrated countries in the world. I bet after visiting Armenia you will want to return there over and over again – that’s what happened to me and now, some ten trips later, I don’t regret a single day I spent in Armenia. I’m sure you will enjoy it too!

Further reading

I published many articles about Armenia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 18 Amazing Places to Visit in Armenia
• 27 Armenia Travel Tips – all you need to know about visiting Armenia
• How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Yerevan to Tbilisi) – a complete guide

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Armenia

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Armenia here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Armenia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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another amazing places: Vanadzor, Hayravanq, Haghartsin, Noratus Cemetery, Shaqui waterfall, Smbataberd, Parz lich, goshavanq, mayramavanq, St. Nicholas Church, Garni Gorge and Rock Symphony, Lori Canyon, Lake arpi, trchkan.

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Travel to Armenia – Tips and Information Guide (2024)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From enjoying the world’s longest cable car ride through the mesmerising landscapes of Vorotan canyon to admiring some of the oldest monasteries on record, these are just some of the reasons you should travel to Armenia .

When you travel in Armenia you will often wonder, how come more people aren’t placing Armenia higher on their bucket list?

Not a lot of nations can boast to have preserved their rich cultural heritage dating far back as the ancient times. The perfect examples being the town Yerevan, that is 28 years older then Rome or, their 6,000 year old wine making tradition!

This small country will draw you in with it’s capturing landscapes, ancient monuments and unparalleled hospitality. If you’re up for discovering one of Europe’s best kept secrets travel to Armenia!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Yerevan

Accommodation in yerevan, restaurants in yerevan, nightlife in yerevan, things to do in tatev, accommodation in tatev, restaurants in tatev, accommodation in garni, accommodation in dilijan, an introduction on travel to armenia.

Armenia is not a country that often rings a bell with tourists, which is actually surprising given that it is such an interesting country with an incredibly old, rich and eventful history, fascinating culture and beautiful nature.

The hospitable inhabitants, delicious food and cheap prices, together with a lack of (western) tourists make it a wonderful destination.

The history of Armenia has been nothing short of eventful. It has seen countless invasion as its strategic position was the reason for constant fights over this territory, especially during the Ottoman-Persian wars (from the 16 th century).

Over the course of history numerous major conflicts afflicted the country. Already centuries ago Armenia was battling the Roman Empire (62), invading the Byzantine empire (1145) and losing west Armenia to Turkey while the rest of the country was being Sovietized (1920) to name a few.

Armenia has also been the subject of many mythical stories, like the stranding of the ark of Noach on Mt Ararat, the holy mountain of Armenia, or the conversion to Christianity.

Nowadays the country is mostly known for the horrors of the Armenian genocide and as the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as its state religion.

More presently, the current poor relations with Turkey stem from their role in the genocide and there is a still unresolved conflict with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory operating as a de facto state that is an unrecognized ethnic Armenian enclave within Azerbaijan.

So over the centuries much has happened in Armenia, which is why it is so interesting in a cultural sense. Not only for culture buffs though, as the small country packs a great variety in magnificent landscapes that will surely satisfy nature lovers.

General Advice For Travelling In Armenia

If you’re thinking about travelling to Armenia, here are the general things you need to know before you go.

Outside of the capital you can easily assume that nobody speaks English. The language that is spoken is Armenian with its own alphabet.

You can get by fairly well with Russian though as it is the most common foreign language in the country and many Armenians understand it. Road signs are usually in English and in Armenian.

Try to learn a few words like hello (barev) and thank you (mersi), which is much appreciated by the locals. Most accommodation and tour providers speak just enough English to be able to sort things out (if not, try some self-invented sign language which usually works. Or not).

Armenians are very friendly and will try their hardest to help you out, even when they don’t speak a word of English. It’s not uncommon to attract a group of about 10 Armenians when asking for directions, everyone weighing in with one or two words in English and their take on the directions you should have.

Armenia has an interesting, varied and delicious cuisine, with some dishes being well known even beyond Armenia like Shashlick and Dolma.

A lot of the dishes are meat based and they throw everything on grills and barbecue, including vegetables. Soon you’ll notice that the delicious barbecue smell is present basically everywhere you go.

You will eat a lot of Lavish, thin flatbread that is made in a traditional ‘tonir’ oven and is complimentary with almost every dish but doesn’t bore easily.

Common ingredients in Armenian dishes are lamb, eggplant, yoghurt, cottage cheese, grape leaves and many fragrant spices.

There are too many dishes to list and specify if they are delicious or not. I recommended to just try out a lot of different dishes and ask the person who is selling the food what they like.

Armenians appreciate tourists taking an interest in their culture, including food, and asking questions about it usually gets you an excited Armenian and something tasty to eat.

In that way you get to try some new things and there aren’t any exceptionally weird dishes anyway so it is rather safe to do.

Most of the local beer is nothing special, except in Yerevan where there is a very new craft brewery called Dargett. They make absolutely delicious craft beer and the place is packed with young locals on the weekend.

But in terms of drinks the real speciality lies in wine and cognac. Armenian cognac is world famous, thus the Yerevan Brandy Company is proudly presented as a major attraction of the city with tasting tours and a museum (Ararat Museum).

Armenia and Georgia are one of the oldest wine producing countries in the world, with grape cultivation going back to ancient times. Well recognised within the wine world and producing some of the best quality wines there are, make sure to try out a few.

There are a lot of vineyards and factories throughout the country, the most famous one that is open to visitors is the Areni factory. I wouldn’t say it is really worth a visit unless you are passing by anyways, you can take a tour and taste some wines here.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but as you’re in a different country there can always be different bacteria’s than that you are used to that upset your stomach.

In mountain areas (like Tatev) there are often many tap fountains in streets etc. providing delicious water from the mountains.

The currency is the Armenian Dram. It is very well possible to have a low budget holiday, whilst it is also tempting to splurge on food and stuff because it is all quite cheap.

For accommodation we paid on average 15 dollars per person a day which gets you rather nice accommodation. Food is inexpensive as well, in restaurants we paid around 6-8 dollar for a meal plus drinks.

Gas is around 0.86 dollar per litre.

Travelling in Armenia is completely safe. Never once did we feel unsafe somewhere. The only area prone to unrest is the Nagorno Karabakh border due to the before mentioned conflict.

The border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is closed and it is best to avoid the border area all together. Other than that the border with Turkey is closed (due to conflicts between the two countries) so you can’t cross it anyway.

Use your common sense and general precautions for petty crime etc. like you would anywhere.

Buses and share taxis (marshrutkas) get you to most of the major places for cheap but I always prefer to have my own car.

The landscape is just really nice to drive through with enough interesting stops along the way that you’ll want to decide yourselves when you get out.

We rented our car with Sixt and picked it up in Yerevan and dropped off in Tblisi, Georgia (other way around is not possible due to regulations).

If you rent with international companies like Sixt, Hertz e.g. the cheapest car would be around 40 dollar a day. Often you can get cheaper deals with local companies.

Make sure you get the full insurance as the roads can be in quite a bad shape. Unless you really want to go far up in the mountains there isn’t necessarily the need for a 4WD in Armenia as you can get to most places, albeit a bit bumpy sometimes.

The Best Places To Visit In Armenia

Now that you know the basics of the country, it’s time to check out the best places to visit in Armenia.

The capital is a great place to start you trip and spend a day or 2. Contradictory to what you might expect from a Soviet era city, it is quite metropolitan.

It has a lively nightlife scene with clubs, hip restaurants and European style bars. Mixed with the many remains of older days, like the typical pink colored soviet buildings and monuments or the 17 th century neighborhood Kond,

Yerevan has its very own appearance. You won’t find any grand landmarks here, rather it is just a nice place to absorb the atmosphere and familiarize yourself a bit with the country you are in.

The Armenian genocide museum is well worth the visit if you want to learn and understand a bit more about Armenians, their history and relations with neighboring countries like Turkey.

There are a few other museums, like the History museum of Armenia and the National Gallery that are interesting as well.

Yerevan is incredibly old, 2800 years to be exact, which is 28 years older than Rome. Thus, it is drenched in interesting history.

A good way to learn more about this is one of the mentioned museum or a (free) walking tour.

A prominent feature of the city centre are the cascade stairs. It is a large stairwell that leads to the grim Soviet monument (not one for extravagant decorating those soviets) erected for celebrating 50 years of Soviet Armenia.

It provides great views over the city and to the massive statue mother of Armenia, supposedly placed defiantly in the direction of Turkey.

Underneath the stairwell is a contemporary art museum which you can enter for free and that you’ll pass through if you decide to take the escalator instead of the stairs to the monument.

You can wander around in the 17 th century neighborhood ‘Kond’, that really feels like a separate part of the city where incredibly old and derelict houses sit on the narrow streets and alleys.

Lover’s park is a small park that is excellent for a bit of relaxing and watching the locals going about their day, grabbing coffee or playing chess and other board games, a favourite pastime activity of many.

There are enough hostels and guesthouses in the city. The Envoy Hostel is a highly recommended hostel and is small but good, the staff is helpful and the location is perfect. Homestays like Anahit Stepayan ’s are quite popular as well if you’d choose for a more local experience.

The restaurant called ‘ The Club ’ is my favourite place. It is a bit hidden in a basement underneath a clothing store. The atmosphere, absolutely delicious (and cheap) food and the fact that there was not another tourist to be seen make it a great place.

In the evening the city comes a bit more alive around the square, where there are many (trendy) bars and restaurants and well-dressed locals making their way for an evening of dining and drinking, a seemingly favourite activity of Armenians.

There are plenty of Western style bars, like an Irish, Beatles and 90’s bars. Most of the bars have a very unobtrusive entrance and are in the basement of the residency buildings.

Around the big square there a few more, but rather tacky looking, bars. I can absolutely recommend the Calumet Bar .

A small, warm bar filled with very lively locals. We spent two nights in a row there and had a great time.

On one occasion we met a group of guys who looked equally bewildered, out of place and fascinated as us. They turned out to be pretty much the only western people we’ve seen on our trip and together we enjoyed looking at the Armenians getting their groove on that night.

The bar goers were very friendly and interested in our country like we were in theirs. The level of English is notably better with young people in the capital.

Like mentioned before, if you like craft beer head over to Dargett to taste some great homemade craft beer and have a meal. It is quite western but rather popular with (young) locals.

Tatev has become known mostly for the longest cable cart in the world, the wings of Tatev, that lead to the Tatev monastery.

Most people arrive in Tatev by cable cart, have a look at the monastery and return. However, there is plenty to see and the drive alone through the Vorotan canyon is worth it.

If you leave from Yerevan it is a 4 to 5 hour drive, that takes you through an incredible varied landscape, starting with arid, desert like surroundings when you leave the capital.

It’s not too long before some thin pasture appears and many fruit and vegetable stalls alongside the road.

After a while the road climbs up into the mountains, 2 hours or so later you’ll cross a mountain pass and suddenly the landscape has changed to green hills and endless fields with blooming wildflowers, while the air is substantially colder due to the elevation.

The vendors have changed as well, now there are people selling honey on the side of the road. The road eventually leads to a junction where the main road continues to Goris (another destination worth checking out) and the secondary road to Tatev.

This road goes through a few old and derelict villages. Some of them look like a war has struck with streets full of rumble and scrap metal. Rusty old decaying cars, trucks and tractors are parked everywhere.

A man is sweeping up big pick piles of rocks, with a broom (probably still working on that I assume). The side streets are unpaved, rocky and full of holes. People stared at us unabashed, I don’t think they have seen many western tourists passing through here.

Granted, our shiny red Nissan Micra didn’t do a good job in hiding the fact that we were tourists either, as old Lada’s really are the only cars locals drive.

After passing through those villages, a zigzag road takes you along the edge of the canyon, providing magnificent views from several nice viewpoints, like the medieval bell chapel.

The road winds all the way down to the canyon to cross the river, only to go right back up the mountains again on a gravel road to reach the village of Tatev.

It is a very small village and pretty quiet, with most tourists concentrating in the area around the cable cart and the monastery.

There are a number of short and longer hikes in the area. We hiked to Mount Petroskhach, which takes you through the old part of the village up into the hills, providing magnificent views across a large part of the steep canyon, which seems to have an almost straight drop from the plateau.

The trail is sometimes a bit difficult to follow as there are a number of trails leaving from the area. We asked a few locals for directions, ignored their advice anyway and went the wrong way (obviously).

Down in the canyon where you crossed the river by car, there is a small parking spot. From here you can follow the footpath alongside the river which takes you through bushy, shrubs and across the river.

In summer the area around the river is teeming with life, lots of butterflies, dragonflies, other insects, fish, birds and many flowers. Be aware that there are snakes as well, take caution when walking into thick grass.

The path leads to the Tatevi Anapat monastery, a complex dating from the 17 th century, which was abandoned by the monks due to an earthquake in 1658 resulting in the ruins that you see here today.

It has this amazing Indiana Jones feeling to it, as an ancient complex slowly taken back by nature, barely visible from the road. Upon entering the main building, which is still quite intact, a soft voice filled the room.

Near the altar there was a monk praying, dressed in his long black robe. Apparently he is still living here all by himself.

The path continues along the river, we didn’t take it due to lack of time but it looks very promising. Following your way back to the parking lot there are a number of viewing platforms over the river.

They call this area Devil’s bridge (Satani Kamurj), named like that because the formation of it seemed improbable, therefore it must be the Devil’s work.

From the viewing platforms you can’t really see that much of it, however you can get down in the river and explore the incredible caves alongside it.

Down in the river it really looks like a scene coming straight out of a fairy tale.

Moss and plants gracefully decorate the walls, while stalactites in all kind of shapes and colours hang from the cave ceilings and form weird terraces around pools, the water containing (supposedly) healing minerals. It gives the impression that you’re walking in a movie set or a themepark attraction.

From down in the river you can also see the Devil’s bridge much better. To get down there you follow the footpath from the viewing platforms all the way to the end, where there is a small hanging rope to get you down onto a wobbly ladder and finally in the river. This rope is a bit hidden between the bushes.

Be aware that it is all a little bit treacherous and one could easily fall and slip and you also have to wade through the river.

At some points the river flows quite fast, we decided to plunge in and let the river takes us somewhere, which landed us at another amazing spot.

Getting back upstream proved a bit more difficult, but also guarantees some hilarious videos of your travelmates struggling to return while the river keeps pushing you back.

It is not a very big or deep river so nothing too dangerous. It is absolutely worth it to get down in the river, this really made us feel like true explorers.

Back in Tatev the monastery is well worth a visit of course. If you continue down the road for a bit there is a nice viewpoint that looks out over the monastery and canyon. The monastery is perched beautifully on a rock overlooking the whole canyon.

We stayed for 2 days but it is an area that begs to be explored. The beautiful canyon has walking paths following the river that you just want to follow and see where it ends up or take one of the small unpaved roads and just see where it goes.

At this point we turned back in the direction of Yerevan, if you continue the road it will take you to even higher mountains and eventually to the border crossing with Iran.

I highly recommend Saro’s Bed and Breakfast .  We were welcomed by Saro’s sister Maro, who is very friendly and hospitable and made sure we were provided with everything we needed, like homemade lemonade, cakes, coffee and she even brought us some lunch to take on a hike at no charge.

Most of the dinner is prepared on the big barbecue and delicious as well. Dolma, rabbit stew and a bottle of homemade red wine make for a great meal.

Maro’s dad also takes guests on a little excursion into the mountain in his old jeep. There are a number of options for guesthouses and bed and breakfasts in Tatev though.

On the drive from Yerevan you’ll pass the Areni Wine Factory. There are also people selling wine everywhere at the side of the road in plastic cola bottles, apparently for Irani truck drivers (as they are not allowed to drink alcohol in Iran thus have to hide it).

There are no supermarkets in Tatev. Stock up on some items and make sure your accommodation can provide all your required meals. There is however a small information centre with a small café. They can also provide with you with hiking routes, maps etc. Saro’s bed and breakfast is also a restaurant for non-guests.

Garni is a town close to Yerevan and for a rather big settlement the road leading to it from the capital is quite strange (or we took a wrong route).

Leaving Yerevan the road suddenly consists of more dirt and holes than actual tarmac. The landscape is incredibly dry for a bit, although it still is a habitat for quite some birds.

Garni itself is a small town with the major attractions being the Garni temple, the only pagan temple in Armenia, the Geghard monastery and the beautiful Garni gorge with the adjacent Khosov nature reserve.

You can enter the Garni gorge from both side of town by car or on foot. Inside the Garni gorge you’ll find this incredible miracle of nature called the Symphony of Stones, a rather fitting name for stone walls that are carved out in perfect cube like pillars.

You can drive the dirt road all the way to the other entrance but after a while we were afraid our Nissan Micra couldn’t take it anymore with all the massive bumps and holes in the road.

There are many hiking trails in the Khosov nature reserve. If you come from Garni the entrance is quite unclear. I drove to the entrance on google maps, a dirt road climbing up the hill.

Eventually a guarded gate signed the entrance and that you could not go further with car, however there was no real parking place either. Thus from Garni it is best to walk to the entrance or enter from the other side.

The Geghard monastery is amazing, but very touristic. Like tour buses touristic, so be there early to avoid crowds and marvel at this dark coloured, ancient complex without too many tourists.

The Garni temple is beautifully perched on top of the ridge overlooking the gorge, best to visit it at the end of the day for nice lighting.

The nearby restaurant is excellent, and also has one of the best terraces I have ever seen, overlooking the gorge and the temple.

We had rented a whole house (called ‘ Dinadav House ’) for ourselves for around 50 dollar in total. There are a number of options on booking.com and It is quite nice to stay in a residents house back in a neighbourhood to get a more local feeling.

Moving up north, Dilijan presents a completely different landscape again. Also commonly referred to as the Switzerland of Armenia, this is a small town in between lush green forests and hills.

There is not much to do other than hike the beautiful surroundings and visit some monasteries like Haghartsin, which can keep you busy for a few days though.

A bit further there is also a zipline but we stuck with the hiking. We hiked near the Haghartsin monastery, which can be reached by a road with twists and turns that begs to be driven with an old school convertible and a hot girl next to you, unfortunately we had to do it with a Nissan Micra and two dudes.

The forests are just like how I expect a real forest to be: lush, plenty of variation in the vegetation and full of blooming flowers.

It is a forest where you just expect to see a bear, or some creature from a fairytale pop up from behind a tree any minute.

We stayed in the Belvedere Eco Rest Zone , located 10 minutes out of town, and beautifully situated near the river. The food is nice, staff is friendly and the rooms are perfectly fine and very cheap. There are a few hotel/hostel options in town as well.

Monasteries In Dilijan

Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion. The story goes that after a Christian (Gregory the Illuminator) cured the Armenian king of a grave illness, he agreed to convert to Christianity, which happened in 301 AD.

Around 95% of the population nowadays is Christian, while Armenia is surrounded by Muslim countries except for Georgia.

As the country had such a major role in establishing Christianity, you will encounter a lot of monasteries and other religious sites.

All these incredibly old buildings and associated tales and myths instil a mysterious and ancient atmosphere to many of the sites that we visited.

You’ll notice one common denominator among the monasteries and that is they sure knew how to pick spectacular locations to build them, usually perched on some cliff surrounded by a dramatic landscape. A few noteworthy monasteries that I visited are listed below:

This 13 th century monastery is located on the way from Yerevan to Tatev, close to Areni, which is a nice little detour. It is beautifully situated in a landscape that most closely resembles the Grand Canyon; hot, dry, and with red dirt mountains.

The complex has a few different churches and chapels and it was the residency of Syunik’s bishops in the 13 th century. It is however, very busy with tourists.

A 9 th century monastery in Tatev (obviously). It is located on the edge of a plateau overlooking the gorge set in a spectacular landscape.

You can go inside the complex, but if you follow the road for a little bit there is a great viewpoint of the monastery. If you venture a bit through the bushes you can see a waterfall coming down as well.

The monastery played an important role as an spiritual centre and medieval university in Armenia.

Founded in the 4 th century in Garni, this dark coloured monastery complex is surrounded by cliffs and located next to a gorge.

The inside, and especially the cave chambers, feels so old (well they are, 4 th century!) and it has a bit of mysterious vibe to it, like you are stepping back in time.

The vendors and tour buses at the entrance detract the atmosphere a bit, but it is definitely worthwhile.

We did not visit one of the most famous monasteries, as there were thick clouds that day and it is famous for having the snow-capped peak of Ararat in the background.

We were also out of time and guessed it would be another busy monastery as well, as this is one of the most popular landmarks in Armenia.

Gregory the Illuminator was 13 years imprisoned here by the king before he cured him of an illness after which the king and country converted to Christianity.

The construction of a chapel already began in 642, the current church was however finished in the 17 th century. It is located a few kilometres of the main highway around Yerevan.

A 13 th century monastery in Dilijan beautifully located in the lush green forests. It is small and not completely intact anymore but worth a visit. It is quite nice and the main building (church) is still intact.

Also the starting point from a number of trails in the forests so perfect for combining those activities.

There are many more monasteries, churches and other religious site of interest. Many can be done in a day tour from Yerevan (hostels organise these).

Note:  When I say busy with tourists, these are almost exclusively domestic Armenian and Georgian tourists. No tour buses with Asians or Europeans here. Best to get there early to avoid crowds. There are no entrance fees to the monasteries. The more popular ones will charge you a very small fee for parking.

These places will take you around the country, which we did in 8 days. It is not very big but there is plenty to see, I’d recommend to take at least 8 days to explore Armenia.

It is still a rather underrated destination, apparent by the low number of tourists that visit the country. It should however receive much more attention, as I have never been to a country before that made me feel like a true explorer without the discomfort of one.

The history is endlessly interesting and the landscapes fascinating. I’d say the country is the perfect introduction to one of the most interesting corners of the world, standing at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

[box] That’s it for my travel to Armenia guide. Leave a comment below if this has helped you, or if you have something to add.[/box]

Thijs Broekkamp

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I highly recommend a visit to Yerevan. The city is filled with beautiful architecture and rich history, and the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I had a wonderful time exploring the city’s vibrant culture through its delicious food, unique museums, and lively nightlife

Hi, thank you for your great article! We’ll be going to Armenia tomorrow and I was wondering about the car rental. Where did you rent the car and do you think it is possible to do a similar trip with local buses? Thanks for your help 🙂

Hi Lauriane, sorry for the late reply. We hope you had a great time in Armenia. Happy travels

My daughter and I are going on our first trip to Armenia in the summer of 2020. I read your blog and look forward to my trip! Thank you, now I know more about Armenia! Great photos!

Hi Tori, I hope your trip is still on. Have a wonderful time. Happy travels

Hey, Thank you for this beautiful article. We are planning a trip a to Armenia and wanted to know if we rent a car can we do, Garni, Geghard, Dilijan and Lake Sevan on the way in an entire day if we leave early morning? We do not want to stay anywhere as we will be based in Yerevan. A Nissan Micra would be enough for this journey? We are traveling in October. Do google maps work here accurately? Thank you so much for your help!

Hi, thank you so much. About all the destinations with a car rental, we are not too sure sorry. Maybe contact the car rental company. They may be able to help. All the best. Happy travels

Thanks a lot for telling about your adventurous trip. Leaving for Armenia in a few days, liked your writing, hope to love this country ss you did.

Glad the article helped. All the best with your trip.

Thanks. I’m in Georgia now, then Turkey.Bulgaria, Romania . I’m going to Armenia end Sept.. Looking forward to it especially after reading your intensive tipsxx

Have a great trip. 🙂

According to you Armenia looking awesome to see.

It is a great place. We can not wait to go back and explore more.

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 5, 7, 10-day itinerary in armenia (with nagorno-karabakh).

Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Talita

So today, we want to stop in with another loooong article about what you can actually do during your trip to Armenia with a few itinerary options.

Lake Sevan – Image courtesy of David Jones

And if you have a trip to Armenia in the books, you’ve got a lot to look forward to. Including:

• A chance to learn first-hand about the remarkable yet often heartbreaking history of this Caucasus nation
• Thousands of traditional, hand-painted, millennia-old monasteries (Armenia was, after all, the first nation in the world to adopt Christianity way back in the 4 th century!)
• Pristine lakes, winding mountain roads, and the longest cable car in the world
• A potential visit to Nagorno-Karabakh – the disputed, technically-still-at-war region (literally at war if you are reading this in October 2020) that’s full of natural beauty and locals willing to share their story with you

So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• 1    Armenia Fast Facts
• 2    How to Plan a Trip to Armenia
• 3    Armenia transportation options
• 4.1 7-Day Armenia Itinerary by car
• 4.2 5-Day Armenia Itinerary
• 4.3 10-Day Armenia Itinerary
• 5    Final tips for visiting Armenia
• 6 Other attractions, activities and tours in Armenia
• 7 Planning your next trip?

   Armenia Fast Facts

1.1. Where is Armenia?

Armenia is a small, mountainous country located in the Caucasus region alongside its caucasian neighbors Georgia and Azerbaijan. It also shares a border with Turkey to the west and Iran to the south.

1.2. Is Armenia Asia or Europe?

Honestly…it depends who you ask!

Armenia is often considered to be a part of Asia geographically since it is so far east of the rest of Europe. However, it tends to identify more as European culturally (it participates in the European Games and Eurovision , for example).

Others say that Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan should be given their own label inspired by the name of the mountain range that runs the length of the region: Caucasian.

All that said, most of the Armenians we met on our trip described Armenia as a blend of the above.   

Map courtesy of WorldAtlas

   How to Plan a Trip to Armenia

2.1. How to get to Armenia

The easiest course of action is to fly into the international airport in the capital city of Yerevan. You can find pretty reasonable flights here from Europe, and even from the US because of its large Armenian diaspora.

Alternatively, if you are in neighboring Iran or Georgia, you can take ground transportation across the border ( bus from Iran, train or marshrutka minibus from Georgia).

However, keep in mind that the borders between Armenia and Turkey/Armenia and Azerbaijan are CLOSED. These countries do not have diplomatic relationships and you cannot cross from one to another.

So if you’re in one of these countries and want to get to Armenia, you’ll need to cross to either Georgia or Iran first.

(If you’d like to visit both Azerbaijan and Armenia in a single trip, you may want to visit Azerbaijan first. We talk more about why this is in “things to know” #10 & #11 in our other Armenia article here. )  

2.2. How long to visit Armenia

Honestly, this small country packs a powerful punch!

You could easily spend a week here without running out of things to do, plus extend your trip beyond a week if you plan on visiting some of its neighbors as well.

For example, we personally spent 10 days traveling altogether with 7 days in Armenia and a quick weekend trip to Tbilisi, Georgia.

2.3. When to visit Armenia

Armenia is a good destination all year round. But one thing to keep in mind is that their summers are HOT.

We went in September and were still stuck with 90+ degrees F (33+ C) in Yerevan.

Yerevan, Armenia

2.4. Where to stay in Armenia

In Yerevan, there are plenty of hostels , guesthouses, and hotels to choose from.

In other cities (such as Goris and Stepanakert in Artsakh), you’ll be a bit more limited in your options. We’ll link a few accommodation options that we stayed in throughout the itinerary. But in most cases, we found all our accommodation through Booking.com .

   Armenia transportation options

3.1. How to get around Armenia

Within the capital city of Yerevan, we recommend using the efficient Soviet-era metro (renovated by the European Investment Bank ) to get around ( learn more about the metro and find out how Armenia tricked the USSR into building them this metro system for free in “thing to know” #13 in our other Armenia article here ).

Outside of Yerevan, you have a few options: 

•  Marshrutka minibuses and normal buses (just be aware that the scheduling isn’t so convenient, and the driving can be a bit chaotic)
• Hitchhiking (a fairly common, albeit unreliable, option)
• Rent a car (see more about this in section 3.2 below)
• Use a local tour company (see more about this in section 3.3 below)

3.2. How to rent a car in Armenia & things to know before you rent

Frankly, we aren’t sure we’d recommend renting a car in Armenia as it was quite a stressful experience for us. Although, you should know that it is an option.

Renting a car wasn’t our first choice because we wanted a more low-key trip, but it ended up being our only option to see the things we wanted to see within our available timeline.

So if you’re interested in renting a car in Armenia, make sure to read “thing to know” #8 in our other Armenia article here.

Republic Square, Yerevan, Armenia

3.3. Best local Armenian tour company for day trips from Yerevan

If you’re planning on doing day trips from the capital Yerevan, we’d highly recommend a local tour company.

For one, they happen to be really, really cheap ($10-15 for an entire day tour!). Plus, unless you rent a car, these types of companies will be your only option to get to those more isolated attractions that public transportation can’t reach.

As you’ll see in our itinerary below, we took 2 trips with a local tour agency in Yerevan called One Way Travel , and we’d highly recommend them.

(And no, they didn’t pay us or give us any discount to say this….we just really, really enjoyed our time with them!)

You can read more about our experience with this company in “thing to know” #7 in our other Armenia article here.  

   What to do in Armenia: Our Roadtrip-Optional Itinerary for 5, 7 & 10 Days

 4.1. What to know before we begin

  A few notes about these itineraries before we dive in…

• Days 1-3 of our itinerary below were done without a car. The remaining days were done with a rental car (discussed in section 3 above). If you don’t want to rent a car, you could also fulfill most of the itinerary with local marshrutka minibuses, taxis (for more isolated destinations that buses don’t go to), and day trips from local tour agencies like One Way Travel . We’ll give specifics on your options for getting to each stop below.
• Just below, you’ll find our “core” 7-day Armenia itinerary. However, at the bottom of this you’ll also find suggestions for how you can turn this into a 5-day Armenia itinerary or a 10-day Armenia itinerary.
• All of the places in this itinerary are labeled on the map below. You can click on the map to zoom in and then check/uncheck options to see things on the left.

7-Day Armenia Itinerary by car

Days 1 & 2: Arrive in Yerevan & explore this capital city with an optional evening trip to Garni temple & Geghard Monastery

What to do in Y er evan

If you’re coming from outside Armenia, you’ll most likely fly into the capital city, Yerevan. So, our itinerary will begin here. 

“The Cascade,” Yerevan, Armenia – Image courtesy of Alexxx Malev

With your first day in Yerevan, we highly recommend beginning with the Yerevan free walking tour to orient yourself with the city.

( Learn more about this walking tour and get an important note about making your reservation in “thing to know” #18 in our other Armenia article here .)  

The rest of your first day and your second day in this city can be spent exploring the city however you like. There is plenty of other info out there about what to see in Yerevan (the Yerevan Wikitravel page will give you lots of ideas), but here’s a quick list to get you started:

• Check out any one of Yerevan’s many museums
• Wander through the city’s markets
• Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum (note: this is located on a hill a bit outside the city, so plan your time and transportation accordingly)
• Walk to the top of The Cascade: a giant stairwell full of sculptures and flowers that will reward you with a view of the city and a mountain backdrop
• Explore Victory Park at the top of “The Cascade” and pay a visit to the Mother Armenia Statue (which was erected to replace the statue of Stalin in 1962) as well as the Soviet-era amusement park

Victory Park & Mother Armenia Statue, Yerevan, Armenia

If you have time on your 2nd day in Yerevan, we highly recommend taking a half-day to visit the nearby Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery.

How to visit Garni Temple & Geghard Monastery from Yerevan (optional itinerary bonus)  

Although the Garni Temple may look like something out of ancient Greece, it’s actually one of the only pagan temples that’s still standing in Armenia. After Armenia adopted Christianity as a national religion in the 4th century, nearly all of its pagan temples were destroyed. Why Garni Temple wasn’t remains a mystery.

Geghard Monastery, located just 15 minutes by car from Garni, is a logical addition to your trip to Garni.

We actually talk quite a bit about Geghard Monastery in “thing to know” #12 in our other Armenia article here since it was, without a doubt, the most interesting and unique monastery we saw during our entire trip to Armenia.

Geghard Monastery – image by Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0

(And this is saying something because we saw a LOT of monasteries.)

As I described in the other article …this particular monastery is built directly into a cliff and full of caves, grottoes, and a mysterious spring that makes you feel like you are in Indiana Jones!

Unfortunately, neither Garni nor Geghard Monastery is accessible by public transportation. Although they are only 40 minutes from Yerevan, they are still quite isolated.

So you have two options for getting to them: 

• Rent a car (see 3.2 above for more details)
• Join a half-day or evening tour from Yerevan 

As we mentioned in 3.3 above, we’d highly recommend One Way Travel for a trip like this (especially since it only costs $7 USD!). 

We personally did their “Evening Tour to Garni/Geghard” so we were able to spend our day in Yerevan and see the temple lit up at night. But they also have day tours . Just reach out and ask them for tours that go to both these stops if you’re interested.

Garni temple lit up at night

Hiking in the Garni Gorge

As a final note, apparently the Garni Gorge beneath the temple is quite lovely and makes for a cool hike with strange, basalt-rock formations. Since it was already dark by the time we got to Garni, we weren’t able to see the gorge ourselves unfortunately.

Day 3: Lake Sevan & Dilijan day trip from Yerevan

What to do in Lake Sevan & Dilijan

A trip to Armenia is hardly complete without a visit to the famous Lake Sevan!

This sparkling, crystal-clear lake, which also happens to be the largest in the Caucuses, is a favorite escape for Armenians during their scorching summers.

If you’re here during the summer and want to get some watersports in ( jet skiing , windsurfing, swimming, etc.), you may want to consider spending the night in one of the many cheap bungalows that line the lakeshore.

If you’re here outside of swimmable weather, the lake and the surrounding areas are still 100% worth a visit. For starters, there’s the picture-perfect Sevanavank Monastery.

Not too far away, you’ll also find Dilijan National Park, Dilijian old village (featuring traditional, well-preserved Armenian homes that’ll take you back a century), and a number of lovely 13th-century monastery complexes (such as Goshavank and Haghartsin) nestled in the mountains.

Haghartsin Monastery Complex (near Lake Sevan & Dilijan)

You’ll also find the tranquil Lake Parz a short walking distance from Dilijian old village and tucked within the forest – the perfect spot for a bit of relaxation and fun (featuring boats to rent, a ropes course, ping pong, and more).

How to visit Lake Sevan & Dilijian

If you just want to visit Lake Sevan and see Sevanavank Monastery, there are fairly regular buses that go to Sevan town from Yerevan (approx. 1 hour of driving).

But if you’re interested in going to any of the other stops above (Dilijan National Park, Dilijian old village & resort town, the monastery complexes, or Lake Parz), you’ll either need to rent a car or take a tour .

As with visiting Garni and Geghard Monastery, we decided to do a day trip from Yerevan with One Way Travel and their “ Lake Sevan & Dilijan ” tour.

This 9 AM – 7 PM tour was under 10 bucks (plus whatever we spent on lunch). It also gave us the chance to visit all the places I mentioned above as well as spend the day learning from a great guide.

Dilijan National Park (Lake Parz)

  Day 4: Drive along Lake Sevan and through the Armenian mountains from Yerevan to Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh with stops at Noratuz Cemetery, Vank, and tank monuments (night spent in Stepanakert) Driving from Yerevan to Nagorno-Karabakh

**First things first, if you’re not 100% sure what Nagorno-Karabakh is or if you should go, please please please read “things to know” #4, #5 & #6 in our other Armenia article here **

On day 4, we rented a car in Yerevan and headed south towards Stepanakert, the capital of the disputed, technically-still-at-war region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Although we had been to Lake Sevan the day before, we took advantage of the drive to head south along the lakeshore (rather than north as we had the day before) for some more stunning views.

Noratus Cemetary (on drive between Yerevan and Stepanakert)

If you do the same route, there are a few stops you can add along the way ( simply look at the map here to get an idea of where they are):

• Noratus Cemetary – a medieval cemetery featuring stone-carved crosses (located before you cross into Nagorno Karabakh)
• Vank – a weird village in Nagorno-Karabakh home to a number of bizarre giant sculptures (including a huge lion head carved directly into the rock and a titanic-inspired (and titanic-shaped) hotel built by a local millionaire called the “Eclectic Hotel”)
• The various tank monuments you’ll see along the way built in honor of the lives lost in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

Beyond the stops in the list, make sure to take some time to enjoy the winding, sometimes-terrifying mountain roads themselves. Today, the drive and accompanying views will very much be a part of the experience!

Giant lion sculpture in Vank

If you drive straight without stopping (although you should stop, of course), it’ll take you roughly 5 hours to get from Yerevan to Stepanakert.

How to cross from Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh

If you cross by car, at some point *after* crossing the “border” you’ll find a police checkpoint where you need to stop to get your visa to get into “Artsakh” (how the Armenians call Nagorno-Karabakh) .

The police were friendly, and the process was very easy. We simply had to fill out a basic application form (in English), show him our passports, and pay a small visa fee (I didn’t take down the exact amount, but it should be under $10 USD).

Armenia-Nagorno Karabakh border

The visa office at the border does close at some point (we were unable to get an exact time – but perhaps around 5 PM?), so I recommend leaving Yerevan early so you have enough time to enjoy your drive while still getting here on time. For reference, Yerevan to the border without stops is about 2.5 hours. 

If you go by minibus, you should receive a small piece of paper after showing your passport. Based on what I could tell (and please note: I am NOT 100% sure about this so try verifying in Yerevan before you go), you’ll need to take this piece of paper to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Stepanakert’s center square after you arrive.

If you arrived by car like us, you will get your visa on a separated piece of paper that you can keep after leaving the region. Don’t need to do anything else in Stepanakert.

“Artsakh” (Nagorno Karabakh) visa

Where to stay in Stepanakert ( Khankendi for the Azerbaijanis) , Nagorno-Karabakh

There aren’t a ton of options for accommodation in Stepanakert, but we found Hostel R&K and would highly recommend it! 

Day 5: Explore Stepanakert, drive from Stepanakert to Goris with a stop in Shushi, Hunot Gorge, and Khndzoresk Cave Village & Suspension Bridge (sleep in Goris) What to do in Stepanakert

Since you’ll be waking up on day 5 in Stepanakert, you may as well begin your morning here.

Artsakh National Assembly in Renaissance Square, Stepanakert

Honestly, there isn’t a ton to see in the city. However, there are a few visits we made that we can recommend:

• Renaissance Square (the city’s main square and home to the President’s Palace and the National Assembly)
• The Fallen Soldiers Museum (which shares the stories of the many deaths of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict – it’s a bit tricky to find as it is on a back street, behind a building, so I recommend asking at the hostel for directions before you go)
• We Are Our Mountains statue (Nagorno-Karabakh’s most well-known symbol – located slightly north of the city)

“We Are Our Mountains” statue, Stepanakert 

How to get to Shushi

From Stepanakert, you’ll drive a mere 20 minutes to Shushi (also called “Shusha” in Azerbaijani and Russian). There are also buses that go frequently between the two cities.

What to do in Shushi

Shushi, a historic town founded in the 15th century, has been the heart of many conflicts and the home to a revolving mixture of Armenians and Azerbaijanis for centuries.

As its Wiki page explains: 

Following the Shusha massacre in 1920 by Azerbaijani forces and their Turkish supporters, the Armenian half of the population of the city was mostly killed or expelled, and the city reduced to a town with a dominant Azerbaijani population. After the capture of Shusha in 1992 by Armenian forces, its population diminished dramatically again and is now almost exclusively Armenian. 

Monument to soldiers killed in the Nagorno-Karabach conflict

In Shushi, you can:

• Walk the town walls of the Shushi Fortress
• Wander through the old town and visit the Shushi museum
• See many remnants of the war – including abandoned Azerbaijani mosques (which, as a cultural heritage, are being preserved by Armenia and Iran, even if not currently in use) and the Shushi Tank Memorial (found just outside of town as you drive in)

Minaret from an abandoned mosque in Shushi

How to visit the Hunot Gorge & Zontikner Waterfall

Just outside of Shushi, you’ll find the Hunot Gorge. There is a famous lookout called “Jtrtuz” that puts you at the top of the gorge and allows you to peer down into it. 

Although we didn’t stop by, apparently there is a tourist office in Shushi which may be able to help.

Military convoy from “Armenia” near the front line. We were “invited” to leave by some soldiers when we tried to film an old destroyed village.

Within the Hunot Gorge, there’s also an option to hike to the impressive Zontikner Waterfall and umbrella caves. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to get there ourselves so we can’t give too much advice on the how-to.

However, it does seem to be quite isolated and there isn’t a ton of information out there about it…so you may want to get yourself a guide or ask for details in Shushi.   

How to visit Old Khndzoresk Cave Village & Swinging Suspension Bridge

From Shushi, you’ll cross the border back into Armenia again (the border police didn’t stop us at all) and head towards one of our favorite stops of our whole trip: Khndzoresk.

Khndzoresk ancient cave city

Khndzoresk is an ancient, 13th-century cave city built into the rock that once held as many as 15,000 inhabitants. People even lived here until the 1950s! You can wander through the caves quite freely, as well as cross the gorge via a cable suspension bridge to get there.

By car, Khndzoresk is slightly under a 2-hour drive from Stepanakert.

At the time of writing this article, putting “Khndzoresk” into your GPS will get you to the village, not directly to the caves. Luckily, the caves are quite nearby. After you enter the village (you’ll be greeted by a metal gate welcoming you in Armenian and Russian), drive a bit farther until you see a dirt road on your right.

Continue down this road until you hit the gift shop, then take the steps down to the bridge.

As far as we can tell, there aren’t any buses that you can take to Khndzoresk caves. However, if you take a bus from Stepanakert to Goris (which is just 15 minutes away from

Khndzoresk), you may be able to find a cheap taxi or private car in Goris to take you to Khndzoresk. 

Where to stay in Goris

After you finish exploring Khndzoresk, you have an easy 15-minute drive to Goris where you’ll be spending the night. Although Goris is a small town and doesn’t really have that much to do, it does have a lot of accommodation options by nature of being close to Khndzoresk and to the Tatev cable car and monastery (your destinations for tomorrow!).

The place we ended up staying in Goris was pretty unforgettable….but you can find a lot of options for (very, very cheap) hotels and guesthouses on Booking.com .

Day 6: Explore Goris caves, drive from Goris to Yerevan with stops at Tatev cable car/Tatev Monastery, Karahunj & Khor Virap (sleep in Yerevan)

What to do in Goris/How to visit Goris caves  On your final full day in Armenia, you’ll begin with a visit to the medieval Goris cave dwellings – a smaller, though still interesting, version of the cave city you saw in Khndzoresk the day before. Plus some bizarre, spiral rock formations and a view over Goris city if you choose to climb to the top!

The Goris caves are up on a hill behind the town cemetery (not far from the “Saint Gregory The Illuminator Church”). Asking locals or putting “medieval Goris cave dwellings” into your google maps should get you there. 

Goris cave dwellings

One thing to be careful of: If you search “Goris cave dwellings” online, many websites (such as Tripadvisor, for example) will give you results for the more well-known Khndzoresk caves even if they are labeled as the “Goris cave dwellings.”

So, just be aware since there are caves in Goris and in Khndzoresk even if they are mislabeled!

How to visit Tatev Monastery & Cable Car

From Goris, you’ll drive about 25 minutes or so to the famous “Wings of Tatev.” In other words, the longest cable car in the world! Riding the 6 km/3.5 mile cable car will bring you some impressive views and to the Tatev Monastic Complex on the other side of the canyon.

“Wings of Tatev” cable car station 

It’s not possible to get to the cable car by public transportation, unfortunately. So if you don’t have a rental car , first you’ll have to take a bus to Goris (either from Stepanakert or Yerevan). Then take a taxi from Goris. 

One very important note – make sure you reserve your time slot for the cable car online!

( Learn how to do this in “thing to know” #15 in our other Armenia article here .)

To visit the monastery itself, you have 2 options.

If you’re short on time and want to take things easy, then you can take the cable car both ways to the Tatev Monastery.

Or if you’re feeling a bit more energetic, you also have the option of taking the cable car one way and then hiking back through the gorge and along “Devil’s Bridge” (which even has some hot springs underneath that you can swim in). The hike itself is a zigzaggy 6 miles (10 kilometers) with quite a bit of ups-and-downs…so make sure you bring lots of water and snacks….and spare time!

How to visit Khor Virap

3 hours of driving from Tatev will bring you to what is perhaps Armenia’s most-prized photo spot: Khor Virap.

It’s not too far out of your way back to Yerevan…and with the monastery framed by Turkey’s snow-capped Mount Ararat in the background, it’s easily worth the stop.

Khor Virap Monastery – image courtesy of Wikipedia [creative commons]

Note: you can also visit Khor Virap on a day trip from Yerevan (it’s just 40 minutes away) with local buses or with a tour company like One Way Travel .

Bonus stop: how to visit Shaki Waterfall and Karahunj

If you have more time along your drive back to Yerevan, between Tatev and Khor Virap you also have 2 extra options for stops: Shaki Waterfall and Karahunj (Armenia’s “Stonehenge”).  

Neither are very far off the road (10 minutes or so) you’ll be taking to Yerevan anyways, so you may want to add them to your itinerary. Both stops are about 40 minutes by car from Tatev. 

Day 7: Final day in Yerevan (your choice!) Assuming that you’ll be flying or taking the train out of Yerevan today, you’ll likely want to arrive the night before.

So what you do on your final day depends on what you have time for – whether that is taking another city stroll or hitting up a museum that you missed before.

Memorial at the Armenia Genocide Museum, Yerevan

5-Day Armenia Itinerary

Don’t have quite a full week for your trip? Then I’d recommend basing yourself out of Yerevan and doing day trips to the stops that interest you most in the itinerary above (Garni, Lake Sevan, etc.). You’ll probably also want to remove Nagorno-Karabakh from your itinerary.

If you wanted to add Tatev and Khnodoresk to your trip, then you might consider spending one night in Goris. This area is roughly 4 hours one way, so it’d otherwise be quite the day trip!

10-Day Armenia Itinerary

We had 10 days in total for our trip. So alongside following the 7-day itinerary recommended above, we used our last few days to add in a weekend trip to Tbilisi, Georgia.

( You can find a few more details about how to do this in “things to know” #16 in our other Armenia article here )

Weekend trip to Georgia from Yerevan

Alternatively, if you’d rather stay in Armenia, here are a few things you could add to the 7-day itinerary:

• Hike in one of Armenia’s many natural parks such as Arevik National Park (near the border with Iran) or Hunot Gorge (near Shushi)
• Spend more time enjoying Lake Sevan (weather permitting, of course) – home to parasailing, water sports , and cheap bungalows
• Visit Gyumri, Armenia’s second-biggest city and where you’ll find old town, many churches, and a fortress
• Relax in Jermuk, one of the most popular spa towns in Armenia (famous for its healing mineral water and mild climate)

4.5. Where to go before or after Armenia

Many people visit Armenia as part of a larger “Caucasus” trip including Georgia and Azerbaijan. But as we mentioned above, do keep in mind that you can’t cross from Armenia to Azerbaijan, so you’d have to put Georgia in between them.

Iran is another option (assuming you’re from a country that’s easy to get a visa). And from Iran, you can head to Turkey (but again, remember that you can’t cross into Turkey from Armenia!).

Beyond this, given that Armenia was once a part of the Soviet Union , you can get lots of cheap, easy flights to other ex-soviet states . As well as pretty inexpensive flights to much of Europe.

   Final tips for visiting Armenia

I may be a little biased…but I think most of the other things that you may want to know before your trip can be found in our article here: 19 Things to Know Before Visiting Armenia

Alternatively, if you have any questions about Armenia, trip planning in general, or have any suggestions you want to add, let us know in the comments area below!

Other attractions, activities and tours in Armenia

If you are looking for activities and tours in Armenia, I recommend that you take a look at GetYourGuide and Viator . There you can find and buy amazing tickets, tours and excursions in Armenia.

GetYourGuide

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Armenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 4, 2023

Straddling the divide between Asia and Europe , Armenia might be one of the final travel frontiers left on the planet for adventurous backpackers. Visiting Armenia isn’t often on a traveler’s to-do list, despite its beautiful snowy mountain peaks and many perfectly preserved medieval monasteries.

But their loss is your gain as the country is virtually untouched by mass tourism.

Armenia’s history is complicated and often tragic, marked with countless years of warfare and the infamous Armenian Genocide in which the Ottoman government murdered 1.5 million Armenians in the early 1900s.

Learn more about the country’s past by visiting the many historical monuments and religious structures scattered around the country, including the 4th-century Etchmiadzin Cathedral and the Greco-Roman Temple of Garni.

Armenia’s dramatic landscape of jagged mountains and deep, rugged valleys — especially in the Geghama mountain range — is perfect for trekking, biking, and off-roading.

Moreover, Armenians love chatting with visitors. You don’t have to try hard to meet the locals here as they’re going to want to know why you are visiting since so few people do!

This travel guide to Armenia will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated gem!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Armenia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. See Mount Ararat

This dormant volcano is technically a part of Turkish territory and is believed to be the final resting spot of Noah’s Ark. While you can’t hike the mountain from Armenia, you can certainly admire it up close from the Khor Virap monastery, located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Yerevan!

2. Visit Yerevan

Known as Armenia’s “Pink City” for the rose-colored volcanic material used for much of the city’s buildings, Yerevan is home to wide tree-lined boulevards, busy town squares, and a thriving cafe culture. Try the city’s famous dark coffee; it’s rich, sweet, and packed with caffeine.

3. Go Skiing in Tsaghkadzor

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, Armenia has become a hit with extreme sports lovers. During the winter, Armenia is transformed into a ski and snowboarding haven. Tsaghkadzor ski resort in the Marmarik river valley is the most popular place to go. A day ticket costs 12,000 AMD.

4. Visit Dilijan National Park

Dilijan National Park is easily one of the most scenic destinations to visit in Armenia, boasting wide swatches of forested hills and green meadows home to thousands of plant species. Hike the well-marked trails to springs and monasteries or spend some time at scenic Parz Lake.

5. Visit the Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the genocide that took place in Armenia between 1915-1922 at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Inside is a collection of photographs, documents, newspaper reports, and films curated to tell the story of this tragic event in Armenian history. Admission is free but donations are welcomed.

Other Things to See and Do in Armenia

1. take the cable car to tatev monastery.

This medieval monastery was built between the 9th-13th centuries and is unique thanks to its position on the edge of a deep gorge. The inside is covered in 10th-century frescoes and vaulted stone ceilings, while the exterior has many pointed domes and is surrounded by tall stone fortress walls that drop off immediately into the gorge below. There are stunning views and photography spots all around the complex as well. The only way to visit the monastery is by taking the cable car across a 5,752-meter cableway (the longest in the world) suspended 320 meters (1,049 feet) above the River Vorotan. The cable car ride takes around 15 minutes, and a round-trip ticket is 5,000 AMD. Tatev is about 3.5 hours from Yerevan.

2. Visit Shikahogh State Reserve

Shikahogh State Reserve is the second largest forest in Armenia and is home to some diverse wildlife including leopards, bears, wild goats, and vipers. There are lush mountain hiking trails (although they are not always well maintained) that lead you to Iron Age tombs, medieval churches and monasteries, waterfalls, crystal-clear springs, and even abandoned towns. The 11-kilometer (7-mile) route from Mount Khustup to Shishkert village is tough but incredibly scenic.

3. Swim in Lake Sevan

Also known as the “Armenian Sea,” Lake Sevan is a massive lake (it covers 5% of the country) located high in the Caucasus mountains. Known for its incredible biodiversity and stunningly stark landscapes, Lake Sevan is a popular destination for domestic and foreign travelers alike. Come here to relax in one of the lakeside villages, visit medieval monasteries, and swim in the lake (if it’s warm enough or you’re brave enough!). The lake is so high in altitude (1,900 meters above sea level) that if you sit on the riverbank, it almost looks like the river is running into the sky. You can wild camp here for free as well. Lake Sevan is around 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Yerevan. The most common way to get here is by marshrutka (minibus), which takes around an hour.

4. See Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is a World Heritage-listed complex named from the lance that pierced Christ’s side at the crucifixion. The buildings are partially carved out of the mountains and surrounded by cliffs along the Azat River Gorge. Inside the 13th-century Avazan Chapel is a sacred spring that runs through the monastery, and the original reason for the founding of the area as a religious site back in the 4th century. Today, visitors fill up bottles to take the holy water home. Admission is free.

5. Visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral

Located only 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Yerevan, no visit to Armenia would be complete without seeing the Echmiadzin Cathedral. The cathedral was built following the country’s adoption of Christianity in 301 CE, making it the first country in the world to do so. The cathedral is the oldest in Armenia and is often cited as the oldest cathedral in the world. The cathedral’s museum has some fascinating artifacts, including a supposed piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, the spear that pierced Jesus’ side, and a piece of Noah’s Ark. Admission to the museum is 1,500 AMD.

6. Explore Gyumri

The city of Gyumri is one of Armenia’s most ancient settlements, dating back nearly 3,000 years. Starting from the busy Vardanants Square at the center of town, walk to the Kumayri Historic District, a sort of open-air museum filled with historic buildings like the Sev Ghul fortress and the Paris Hotel (used as a maternity hospital during Soviet times). Be sure to visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life (1,000 AMD entry), which showcases life in the area from the 19th century to the 1920s, or the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum (300 AMD entry), with works from two sisters who helped bring equality to Armenian women through their art.

7. Experience the healing waters of Jermuk

With over 40 natural thermal springs, Jermuk is the most popular spa town in Armenia, with a variety of resort hotels and spas (rooms start at 15,000 AMD). Get a free sample of healing mineral water from the Gallery of Water, where natural mineral water flows into 5 different stone urns, each with different healing properties and temperatures (be careful as some are very hot). While you’re there, make sure you venture to the Jermuk waterfall, which, at 70 meters tall (230 feet), is Armenia’s second-largest waterfall. Jermuk is about 3 hours from Yerevan.

8. Visit the Army of Stones

Karahunj, otherwise known as Zorats Karer (or Army of Stones in English), is Armenia’s oldest and most popular megalithic site. Located at an altitude of 1,770 meters (5,800 feet) on a rocky plateau, no one knows how these 200 stones got here. Even stranger is the fact that each stone has 5-centimeter holes in it. There are many different theories on how and why the stones are here, but the most popular theory is that the site was constructed in the 6th century BCE for stargazing.

9. Take a wine tasting tour

With over 500 unique and native varieties almost unknown to the world outside Armenia, taking a wine tour is a must for any wine lover. In fact, the oldest wine cave in the world (it’s 6,000 years old!) is near Areni. Sadly, during Soviet rule, many of the wineries were shut down. It is only in the last decade that Armenia has begun to reconnect with its winemaking roots. Wine tours from Yerevan start from 37,000 AMD for a tour of one winery and go up to around 75,000 AMD for a full-day tour.

10. Go to the Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Museum-Reserve

This archaeological site encapsulates the ancient Erebuni Fortress, which dates to 782 BCE, a whole three decades before Rome was even established, and after which the city of Yerevan was named. The entire complex is now an outdoor museum, with an indoor component as well. The museum contains more than 12,000 artifacts offering insights into Armenia’s ancient history and the establishment of the city of Yerevan. You’ll also learn about what daily life was like in the palace of Argishti I, one of the greatest kings of ancient Urartu. Admission is 1,000 AMD or 2,500 AMD with a guide.

11. See Noravank

Built in the 13th century, legend has it that when the Mongols conquered Armenia hundreds of years ago, it was God himself that saved the Noravank monastery. Delicately carved stonework and religious reliefs (including depictions of God) decorate the three churches here. Unlike the many other Armenian monasteries that are located on top of mountains and gorges, Noravank is set on the floor of a deep valley, with towering red cliffs rising up on either side of the complex. Visiting the site is free, though the museum is 500 AMD. The monastery is around 122 kilometers (76 miles) from Yerevan.

Armenia Travel Costs

Accommodation – There are a limited number of hostels in Armenia and most of them are in the capital, Yerevan. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 5,000-7,500 AMD, while a bed in an 8-bed-dorm costs 3,000-4,000 AMD. A private double room in a hostel is around 10,000-15,000 AMD with a shared bathroom. Standard amenities include Wi-Fi and bedding. Free breakfast and shared kitchens are common as well (though not all hostels have them).

Camping is available around the country. For those not traveling with a tent, you can often rent them at the Tourist Information Centers. Wild camping is free, but if you prefer camping on a campsite, prices start at around 4,000 AMD per night for two people and a tent.

Budget hotels average around 8,000-9,850 AMD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and free breakfast is usually included.

Airbnb is available though the options are limited. Private rooms start around 10,000 AMD per night while entire homes/apartments average closer to 25,000 AMD.

Food – Armenia is a landlocked country with a long history of trade, meaning that Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European countries have all left their mark on the country’s cuisine.

Fresh and dried herbs create flavorful dishes, and common spices include black pepper, sumac, cumin, mint, and cinnamon. Staple vegetables include eggplant, cucumber, bell pepper, tomato, and onion. Legumes, especially chickpeas and lentils, are also used as central ingredients in many dishes. Pork, lamb, and beef are the most common meats. Though meat is predominant in the cuisine, because of the fasting periods in the Armenian Apostolic religion, there are many traditional dishes that are entirely plant-based as well.

Common dishes include a variety of cold salads, yogurt soups, boereg (filled pastry pies), bozbash (lamb stew), khorovats (grilled meat skewers), tolma (stuffed grape leaves), kyufta (a type of meatball), and harissa (a porridge that’s considered Armenia’s national dish). Traditional lavash bread, a flatbread made from wheat and baked in a clay oven, is integral to Armenian cuisine and is served with most meals.

Street food like shawarma or lahmajun (Armenian pizza) costs less than 1,000 AMD, and a glass of tan (a salty yogurt drink) shouldn’t be more than 300 AMD.

For an inexpensive meal at an Armenian restaurant, expect to pay around 1,250-2,750 AMD for traditional food like spa (an extra creamy soup), kyufta (meatballs), or Armenian cheese with basturma (dried meat with spices) wrapped in a piece of Armenian pita bread.

Higher-end or Western restaurants cost about 6,000-8,500 AMD per meal. Even Chinese takeout restaurants, normally a mainstay of the budget traveler, are more expensive than Armenian meals, costing at least 3,800 AMD for a dish.

In terms of drinks, expect to pay 600 AMD for a beer, 700 AMD for a glass of Armenian wine, 1,000-1,500 AMD for a cocktail, 800 AMD for a cup of Armenian coffee, and 1,200 AMD for a cappuccino.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries should cost around 12,000-16,000 AMD but, with food prices being so low, it’s better to eat street food and enjoy the food the country has to offer!

Backpacking Armenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of about 17,500 AMD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm (or camp), eat street food or at inexpensive restaurants, cook some of your meals, use local transportation (including some intercity buses), limit your drinking, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and museum visits.

On a mid-range budget of about 43,000 AMD, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb, eat any budget restaurant meal you want, enjoy a few drinks, take some taxis to get around, take intercity trains, and do more paid activities like ride the cable car to Tatev Monastery and do a winery tour.

On a “luxury” budget of about 77,000 AMD per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might pay less every day). We want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AMD.

Armenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Armenia isn’t going to break your bank. There are so many free activities here, especially if you’re enjoying the outdoors, that it’s hard to spend a lot. Throw in cheap food, beer, and accommodation, and you can really stretch your budget here. However, if you’re looking to lower your expenses even more, here are some ways to save money in Armenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Yerevan Free Walking Tour is a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Hitchhike and wild camp – If you really want to save money in Armenia, it is one of the easiest countries in the world to hitchhike. You will likely never wait long. Wild camping is also legal, and it is very common for friendly Armenians to invite you to their home for food so bring a tent when you visit.
• Cook your own meals – Some hostels here don’t include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, make sure you book accommodation that does so you can buy cheap groceries and cook some meals.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that can provide free accommodation and share their insider tips with you. It’s the best way to save money and meet locals.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t really safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your reliance on plastic bottles. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw because it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Armenia

There are very few hostels in Armenia, and the few they have are in Yerevan and Tsaghkadzor. My suggested places to stay are:

• Envoy Hostel (Yerevan)
• MGA Hostel and Tours (Yerevan)
• Kantar Hostel (Yerevan)
• Hostel Tsaghkadzor (Tsaghkadzor)

How to Get Around Armenia

Public transportation – Public transportation isn’t the best in Armenia. The public transport websites aren’t translated into English, so it is much better to ask at your hostels for guidance to help you use the local and intercity buses. In the cities, it is easy to walk from place to place.

Yerevan has five trolley bus routes with a ride costing around 50 AMD. There’s also a subway with one line and ten stations, and public buses. A one-way fare on the bus and subway is around 100 AMD.

If you’re flying into Zvartnots International Airport, you can reach the center of Yerevan by bus or taxi. Aerotaxi is the official airport taxi but be aware drivers often won’t turn on the meter, so you need to negotiate a price, which should be around 3,000 AMD. A bus is around 300 AMD.

Bus – Intercity transport in Armenia is best done by bus and minibus (marshrutka). Intercity buses are relatively inexpensive but navigating the bus stations can be tricky as English isn’t widely spoken. Ask in your hostel the day before for someone to help you work out which bus you need and then you will just have to look for that bus when you arrive at the station.

Bus fares average about 716 AMD per hour of travel, but even a short route can end up taking quite a while with lots of stops.

Trains – There are daily trains connecting Yerevan to Gyumri (3 hours), Yeraskh (1.5 hours), Araks (1 hour), Ararat (1 hour), and Hrazdan (1.5 hours). In the summer months, the Hrazdan line gets extended to Lake Sevan. One-way tickets cost between 3,500-12,500 AMD.

Train tickets to nearby cities outside of Armenia, such as Tbilisi, cost around 9,800-12,000 AMD for a one-way ticket. You can purchase tickets online at the official railway website, Railway.am .

The trains that run most regularly are slow trains that are Soviet-era relics, meaning they are uncomfortable and lack the usual amenities you might expect from trains. The express trains, however, are modern and air-conditioned. Unfortunately, these cost more and run less frequently.

Flying – There are only two international airports in Armenia so although air travel is possible, it is far from cost-effective. Often you don’t save much time due to layovers. A flight from Gyumri to Yerevan starts at 95,000 AMD. Only fly if you are short on time and flush with cash.

Car Rental – Driving is definitely the most convenient way to get around Armenia. Car rentals can sometimes be as low as 12,000 AMD per day, and the more days you book, the better the price. If you’re driving, make sure to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in advance as you’ll need one for any vehicle rental.

When to Go to Armenia

The best time to visit Armenia is at the beginning or end of summer (May-June or September-October). During these months, the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor explorations. The temperature hovers around 20°C (68°F) but be aware that it can be very rainy throughout May and thunderstorms are common.

Summers are hot, with temperatures soaring as high as 35°C (95°F). Things tend to cool down in the evenings, however, with a gentle mountain breeze providing some welcomed relief after a long, hot day.

If you are visiting for skiing, December is the best winter month for hitting the slopes. Temperatures drop below freezing, and the northern regions receive a lot of snowfall. Cities like Yerevan get a lot quieter during these months as everyone hides from the cold.

You don’t have to worry about inflated prices or crowds even during the summer peak season. Armenia isn’t a very touristy destination, and you often have whole sites all to yourself.

How to Stay Safe in Armenia

Armenia is a very safe country to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime here is rare.

There aren’t any specific scams to look out for either, though sometimes taxi drivers will try to overcharge you. You can avoid this by agreeing on a price before entering the taxi (ask your hotel/hostel staff for a price estimate if you’re not sure what to pay).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Petty theft and pickpocketing are rare but can occur so always keep your valuables (specifically your wallet and phone) secure and out of reach. This is especially important in crowds or on busy public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never accept drinks from strangers, don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk around intoxicated at night, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

There’s often political turmoil with neighbors so keep an eye out on that and avoid protests or demonstrations while in Armenia. Avoid the Nagorno-Karabakh region on the border with Azerbaijan due to armed conflict.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Armenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Armenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Armenia and continue planning your trip:

19 Easy Ways to Save Money in Armenia

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Armenia Tours & Vacations

Few countries so regularly elicit the response of “Where’s that?” as Armenia.

Couched in between such obscure neighbors as   Iran ,   Georgia ,   Azerbaijan   and several self-declared (and rarely recognized) republics, this little country is hardly positioned as a convenient summer holiday. Yet for many, herein lies its appeal. A country of hauntingly beautiful natural scenery, prevailing political stability, strong ties to the past and exceedingly warm local hospitality, holidaying in this Caucasus jewel makes for an experience enormously rewarded. 

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Armenia at a glance

Capital city.

Yerevan (population 1.2 million)

2.9 million

(GMT+04:00) Yerevan

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Armenia

History and government.

Located at the crossroads of  Europe , western Asia and the Middle East, Armenia has endured a past that’s proven nothing if not eventful. Alternately divided and conquered by the Romans, Persians, Arabs, Mongols, Ottoman Turks and Russians over the centuries, Armenians have had to work hard at retaining a national identity – the offshoot of which is an avid patriotism that permeates every dimension of national life. The country became the world’s first Christian country back in 301 AD, had developed its own alphabet barely 100 years later and suffered the 20th century’s first genocide (in which it is estimated up to one and a quarter million of its population were killed).

Following a short-lived taste of independence from 1918-1922, the country submitted to Soviet rule under the Bolsheviks. A brief period of stability ended when Stalin started widespread purges of the populace and the persecution of the church. After Stalin’s death, Krushchev brought an era under which the country flourished technologically and economically. But these reforms weren’t enough to placate the Armenian population, who were among the first to let their dissatisfaction be known with the advent of glasnost. Following some demonstrations and violent clashes in 1991, the country became the first non-Baltic republic to declare independence and secede from the Soviet Union.

Today, Armenia is a stable country with a democratically elected leadership and economy that’s on the up. Some tensions still exist with Azerbaijan and massive emigration over the decades has resulted in a diaspora that outnumbers the country’s populace but, considering the history, Armenia has emerged from, the country’s future is looking comparatively bright.

Best time to visit Armenia

With almost half of the country at over 650 feet (2,000 meters) elevation, a dry, high-altitude climate typifies much of Armenia. May and June or September and October are generally considered the best times to go on a trip to Armenia, as the weather is warm but mild and the flowers are in bloom.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

National Army Day

Armenian Remembrance Day

Victory and Peace Day

1st Republic Day

Constitution Day

Independence Day

Please note dates of Armenia's public holidays may vary.

Further reading

Armenia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Armenia?

ARMENIA VISA:

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Armenia. We recommend obtaining an e-visa in advance using the following link:  https://evisa.mfa.am/

Fill in the requested information and submit to receive a link to the application form emailed to you. Please use the address of your finishing point hotel for the Contact Information in Armenia. You will need to upload a scanned passport sized photo and a passport copy to complete your application. In the case that the website is down, it may be possible to obtain a visa on arrival at the land border. Please contact us if you are having difficulty accessing the website.

Is tipping customary in Armenia?

Tipping is becoming increasingly common in Armenia, particularly at restaurants and cafés, with rounding up the bill or adding 10% the general rule. Some restaurants have started adding service fees, though this won’t necessarily be going to your waiter. Tipping for other services is not customary, save for taxi drivers where rounding up the fare is common.

What is the internet access like in Armenia?

There’s no shortage of internet cafés in Yerevan (some 24-hours) and other larger cities outside of the capital.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Armenia?

Internet coverage throughout Armenia is reliable and extensive. Cheap, convenient and easy to come by, temporary pre-paid SIM cards are a good option. Vivacell and Orange both have booths offering free SIM-cards at the airport and offer better English services than their competitors.

What are the toilets like in Armenia?

Western-style sitting toilets are the standard in Armenia, although on occasion one may still encounter squat-style toilets in rural areas.

Can I drink the water in Armenia?

Armenia’s tap water is generally considered safe to drink. For the overly cautious, bottled water can be readily procured, though we recommend water purification tablets or asking your leader where filtered water can be found to cut down on unnecessary landfill.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Armenia?

Credit cards are accepted in Yerevan and other major cities, though it’s best not to rely too heavily on them. Visa is the more commonly accepted of the major credit cards brands.

What is ATM access like in Armenia?

ATMs are common in Yerevan and other major cities, less so in small towns. Visa cards (with the Visa Electron) are the best bet, and some local ATMs are also connected to the Plus and Maestro systems.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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"Armenia is one of Europe's most underrated destinations, with some of the region's most spectacular nature, captivating history and friendly locals - but get there now before the secret's out"

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Visit Ararat Brandy factory and try Armenian cognac

Immerse yourself in Armenian culture and sample the finest Armenian brandy at the Ararat Brandy Factory. Founded in 1877 during the reign of the Russian Empire, the Ararat Brandy Factory is now the primary Armenian brandy production company in Yerevan, and it’s one of the top Armenia tourist attractions.

Experience famous Armenian hospitality with the locals

The highlight of any Armenia travel experience is the welcoming embrace of the locals, which can be summed up with this Armenian proverb: “Guest in a house - three days he’s a guest; on the fourth, he’s a younger brother,” Wherever you go, you’ll find smiling Armenians who will be happy to share stories about their country with you.

Explore the charming streets of Yerevan

Yerevan is the exuberant capital of Armenia, humming with historical and cultural treasures. Take to the streets with our Local Specialists on your Armenia tour to discover historic monuments, ornate gardens and Kond, the 17th-century old quarter where Persian, Muslim, and Ottoman houses line the tiny alleyways.

Climb the steps of Yerevan Cascade for the best view

Set at the heart of Yerevan, the Yerevan Cascade is a monumental staircase, with terraces decorated with beautiful statues and flowers. Climbing the staircase for the panoramic view is one of the best things to do in Yerevan. Once you reach the top, you can take in the breathtaking sights of Mount Ararat and the city below.

Stroll through Vernissage Flea Market

One of the best open air markets in Europe, Vernissage Flea Market is a great place to find a memorable souvenir and get a taste of life in Yerevan. The laneways have almost anything you could imagine, including handmade jewellery, woven rugs, ceramics, paintings, woodwork, clothes and vintage pieces.

Our top 5 things to do in Armenia

We’ll show you the most incredible things to do in Armenia, from climbing the Yerevan Cascade, to sampling fine Armenian brandy and meeting the kind-hearted locals.

History Museum

Located in Yerevan, the History Museum of Armenia is home to 400,000 artefacts, with highlights including an ancient collection of Armenian coins, a large collection of Bronze items from the 3rd to 2nd millennium BC, and a cuneiform inscription from 782 BC about the founding of the city of Erebuni.

Parajanov Museum

Created as a tribute to Sergei Parajanov, a Soviet Armenian director and artist, the Parajanov Museum is a celebration of his artistic and literary legacy. There are around 1,400 exhibits over two floors, with unpublished screenplays, drawings, artworks, original posters and signed letters and gifts by famous visitors including Vladimir Putin.

Matenadaran

Officially known as the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, the Matenadaran is the largest archive of Armenian manuscripts in the world. Named after Mesrop Mashtots, the founder of the Armenian alphabet, the museum is an incredible showcase of Armenian and international written cultures.

Best museums in Armenia

When you tour Armenia with Trafalgar, we’ll show you the country’s ancient history and culture through their incredible museums.

Armenian khorovats (pork barbecue)

Traditional Armenian khorovat is made from chunks of meat, including beef, pork, lamb or chicken, grilled on a skewer. Khorovats are a much-loved part of any Armenian gathering, from family picnics to wedding celebrations, and grilling is a passionate part of Armenian culture.

A celebratory meat stew made with lamb or beef, khashlama is a favorite traditional dish of Armenia and the Caucasus region. The Armenian version is typically mixed with tomatoes, potatoes, capsicums, onions and herbs and spices for a warm, hearty dish.

A popular national dish of Armenia, dolma is made of minced pork or beef (or a mixture of both), or vegetables wrapped in fresh grape leaves or steamed cabbage leaves. There are also some special ingredients such as mint, parsley and oregano to make a variety of this dish that is unique to Armenia.

Best food in Armenia

Sampling delicious Armenian food is one of the best parts of any Armenia trip, and our Local Specialists will show you the best places to taste the country’s best-loved dishes.

What to pack for Armenia

The Armenian dram is the official currency of Armenia, so stock up on some dram before your Armenia tour.

Armenian phrasebook

The Armenian alphabet and language is unlike any other in the world. Learning a few Armenian phrases will earn some smiles of appreciation from the friendly Armenians.

The Armenian climate swings between sub-zero temperatures in winter and 104°F in summer, so pack some layers to be ready for all conditions.

Adaptor plug

In Armenia, standard voltage is 230 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type C and F, with typical European two-pin plugs.

Comfortable shoes

From walking the magical streets of Yerevan, to climbing the massive staircase of the Yerevan Cascade, you’ll need a sturdy pair of walking shoes in Armenia.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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How to travel in Armenia, 11 cheap and easy ways

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If you’re here, you’re probably planning a trip to Armenia , which is amazing, because you’re in for quite a ride! Armenia is still relatively unknown to most, so don’t worry about being stuck with large crowds. But because it’s somewhat new to tourism, getting around, although easy, can get some getting used to. So we put together the ultimate guide to travel in Armenia , so you can get around the country more easily, even if you don’t speak Armenian or Russian!

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Table of Contents

Getting to Armenia

Armenia is located in the Caucasus and is a land-locked country. There aren’t a ton of ways of getting here, mainly because the borders with many neighboring countries are closed.

Flying into Armenia

Currently, there is one international airport in Armenia. It’s the Zvartnots Airport (IATA:  EVN , ICAO:  UDYZ ) located near the capital of Yerevan , about 15 km west of it. Your best bet is to fly into Zvartnots if you’re not already in the Caucasus.

Getting to Yerevan from the airport will set you back about 2,500 dram ($5 USD) on the GG app. If you choose to take a cab from the airport, be ready to negotiate with the driver, as they often try to charge double that price. Offer to pay them the same thing GG would charge, plus an extra 100 AMD (or dram ) ($0.21 USD) because you get to avoid the wait. 

There is a second airport that is set to make its international debut in 2020. It’s the Shirak Airport  (IATA:  LWN , ICAO:  UDSG ) which is near the city of Gyumri, just 5 km from the city center. At the moment, commercial flights there are quite rare.

Getting to Armenia by train from Georgia

Another way into Armenia is to take the train from Georgia. You can take a sleeper train every other night during the winter months (October to May) and daily during summer (June to September). The ride will take about 10h30min, but tickets are affordable, the train is safe and convenient, so really, it’s quite a good way to get to Armenia.

At the moment, the borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan are closed, so you have to go through Georgia to go to-and-from Armenia.

Getting to Armenia from Iran

You can also get to Armenia from friendly neighbor Iran. You can either take a flight or a 24-hour bus ride from Tehran to Yerevan. The bus leaves daily from Tehran’s West Bus Terminal.

How to travel in Armenia, the best ways to get around

The best (and safest) way to get around Armenia is to use local transportation. Although renting a car is possible, city driving is quite dangerous in Yerevan , and the cost of the rental is too expensive to justify, especially for such a budget-friendly country! Here are the best ways to travel in Armenia:

City-to-city transportation in Armenia

Hitchhiking in armenia – the cheapest and friendliest way to travel.

Ask any local, and they will recommend hitchhiking to get around in Armenia . Here, they call it avtostop , from the Russian word for hitchhiking, and it works best when you’re outside of Yerevan . However, it’s not the most time-conscious way to travel. Mainly because Armenians, who are very friendly and generous, will insist you come over for drinks and food before they drop you off at your desired destination. You can try and tip the driver, but chances are, they’ll kindly refuse. 

To make sure your trip is successful, we recommend you look clean, travel in groups of two or three people, and have a mixed-sex group. Also, women shouldn’t be offended if the driver (likely a male) only speaks to the men in the group! Armenia is still a very traditional country.

Take a local bus to get from city to city in Armenia

Like we mentioned earlier, tourism infrastructure is slowly being built in Armenia. But it’s still quite easy to get around the country.

To get from city to city, we recommend you take the larger buses (marshrutkas). Most will be to and from Yerevan , but you can find them to other close-by cities as well. The cost of the trip will vary between $0.50 to $5.00 USD depending on where you’re heading. Someone will collect your fare before the marshrutka leaves. 

If you’re wondering what the bus schedule is, so is everyone else! Although there’s no actual schedule, buses usually leave either when they’re full or on the hour.

During your trip, they may need to refill the marshrutka with gas. Because there are still vehicles in Armenia that run on compressed natural gas and propane. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to get out of the bus as they fill up. It’s only a safety precaution… one of the rare ones that are still upheld in Armenia. And if you’re curious about what we mean, go ahead and try to find a taxi with a functional seat belt!

If you’re in a rush, take a shared taxi to get from city to city

Another easy way to get from city-to-city is to take a shared taxi. The fare will be split amongst passengers, and there’s no schedule for departures. Again, they wait until the car is full before they head out, so if you’re 3-4 people in the group, it may be a faster option to get to where you’re going. Depending on where you’re going, expect to pay between $5 and $10 USD per person.

You can usually catch these shared taxis from Yerevan’s main bus station. The drivers will often approach you as you’re searching for your bus and offer you a ride in their taxi.

Take the train in Armenia to cover longer distances between cities

Yerevan’s train station is Sasuntsi Davit Station, located by the statue of this famous Armenian hero. Although most trains are old Soviet trains, you can also take the new train to Gyumri. The train gets you to Araks, Yeraskh, Gyumri, Ararat, and as we mentioned earlier, you can even go to Georgia (Tiblisi and Batumi). In the summer, there’s even a line that goes to Lake Sevan . 

On the old Soviet trains, there are two classes of seating. First-class has plush seats, while the second class has wooden ones. Depending on how long your ride is, the second class tends to get more lively, so give it a try. 

Ticket prices are quite low for either class, so don’t stress too much about it. Although you can book your tickets online, the trains usually have enough room on them. If anything, get to the station 15 minutes before the train leaves and you should be good. 

If you’re heading to Gyumri from Yerevan on the weekend, we recommend you take the new electric train. It runs from Friday to Sunday, leaving Yerevan at 10 a.m. and getting to Gyumri around noon. Tickets cost $5 USD. You can find the schedule here . This train gets a little more full (it was a novelty when we were there), so it tends to be quite full when it leaves. Give yourself a bit more time for this one (20 minutes should be fine)

Rent a car in Armenia to travel freely

We didn’t rent a car when we were in Armenia. We found it was quite easy to get around without one. Although renting a car is possible (they have the usual car rental companies you find internationally) car rental and insurance are quite expensive here. However, renting a car will allow you to get around more freely, without having to worry about schedules or missed connections.

Transportation within the city in Armenia

Walking around is the cheapest way to get around.

Armenian cities are very walkable, easy to navigate and well marked. For example, you can walk from one end of Yerevan to the other in 30-40 minutes. Walking is the cheapest and healthiest way to get around. So bring comfy shoes — you’ll get good use out of them! 

Although Google Maps work well in cities, if you get lost, just ask the locals. They’re so helpful and love showing their city off. Don’t be surprised if they end up walking with you to your destination and inviting you over for coffee and cake as well!

While you’re walking around in Yerevan, make sure you check out the best restaurants in the city . All the walking is sure to get you hungry!

Use the GG or Yandex Apps instead of taxis

Just like in most cities where Uber has made a debut, the taxi scene is changing in Armenia. Although there are taxis around, the cheapest and fastest way to get around is using the GG or Yandex apps. Just like Uber, they call on various drivers in your area that can take you from one place to the next. GG only works in larger cities at the moment. 

If you want to call on a taxi, make sure you agree on the price before accepting to get in, especially at the airport. On average, rides in the city of Yerevan will cost you around $3-4 USD, depending on where you’re going. Rides to the airport will set you back about $6. 

And we mentioned this before, but we’ll say it again. The taxis or GGs in Armenia just don’t have functional seatbelts. They probably had them at one point in time, but now, they’re not really used. So don’t be surprised if there’s no buckle or seatbelt at all! 

Hop on a marshrutka to get around the city

Ok! So if you want a real taste of life in Armenia, hope on a marshrutka, those small old-school Soviet vans you see whizzing around! These vans are one of the cheapest ways to get around the larger cities. If you want to know where a specific van is going, you can either ask a local waiting in line, or you can use the A2B Transport app on Android, or if you speak Armenian, check out http://marshrut.info/ . 

A ride on a marshrutka will set you back 100 drams. You’ll be asked to pay before getting off, or when the driver asks you. To get off at your stop, just say “Kangnek” (kang-nek) to the driver. The bus will pull over at the next stop to let you off.

And here are a few more tips to make the ride a little more fun.

• If you want to be comfier, sit in the front, with the driver.
• Don’t slam the door too hard when you get in, or you’ll get it from the driver.
• If seating is tight, you’ll need to stand. Is it safe? … maybe not so much.
• Don’t be surprised if ladies ask you to hold on to their purses, groceries, or babies if you have a seat. Though we would recommend you offer them your seat.

Take the metro in Yerevan

Even if it’s displayed on Google Maps, Yerevan’s metro system is little known to visitors. It’s one of the best ways to get around the city, especially if you have to cover long distances.

The metro is also one of the things residents of Yerevan are very proud of. The Karen Demirchyan Yerevan Metro covers 13 km and has about 10 stops, and tickets only cost 100 AMD (or $0.20 USD). In the summer months, it’s also the coolest mode of transportation – the city tends to get really hot. 

If you’re expecting a fancy metro card or metro system, you’re in for quite a ride! There’s no actual metro card in Yerevan. To get through the gates, go to the counter and exchange your money for an orange token, and voilà! Also for some unknown reason, you’re not allowed to take pictures in the metro, even though most stations are beautifully built and are quite photogenic.

Here’s a little more info about transportation in Armenia:

• Cars drive on the right side of the road. Though don’t be surprised to see some cars that have the steering wheel on the right side.
• The roads are not that great in Armenia, though it does depend on where you are. In larger cities, the roads are all paved and actually in good condition. In smaller cities, they tend to be unpaved or full of bumps and holes.
• The speed limit in Armenia ranges from 20 km/h in residential areas to 60 km/h within the city. When on larger routes outside city limits, the speed limit goes up to 90 km/h or 110 km/h. Although on the highway, you’ll come across 70 or 80 km/h. The signage is usually pretty clear, so make sure you stay within the established limits.
• Also, you should be careful when driving because there are speed detector cameras widely spread within Armenia. They automatically fine you for going 10 km/h or more over the speed limit.

Where to stay in Armenia

If you’re ready to crash after all these things to do in Armenia, you can head to  one of the many hotels available . There’s something for every budget and preference. You can also find homestays or try  Couchsurfing . Whatever you choose, you’ll find a comfy place to get some rest.

We’ve said a bunch of times, but we’ll say it again. Armenia is one of our favorite places on earth. Hopefully, this guide will help you get around more easily so you can enjoy everything this beautiful and underrated country has to offer.

Let us know in the comments if this was helpful, and if you have any other questions about how to get around in Armenia.

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Travel Advisory April 9, 2024

Armenia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect changes in the Do Not Travel section.

Exercise increased caution in Armenia due to areas of armed conflict. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

• The border region with Azerbaijan.

U.S. Embassy Employees and their families remain prohibited from any non-essential travel to the following areas:

• Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis.
• Syunik region east of Goris;
• Syunik region south of Kapan;
• Travel through Yeraskh village in Ararat region is allowed, stopping is not.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in Armenia. Further military activity could occur in the region.  

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Armenia.

If you decide to travel to Armenia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Armenia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Border with Azerbaijan – Level 4: Do Not Travel

There is the potential for armed conflict near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. U.S. citizens should avoid the area. Exercise caution on roads near Armenia’s border with Azerbaijan. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.  The U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to the border region, as well as other areas of Armenia listed above.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

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None for U.S. Citizens staying for less than 180 days per year

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy yerevan.

1 American Avenue  Yerevan 0082, Republic of Armenia  Telephone: +(374) 10-464-700  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(374) 10-494-444  Fax: +(374) 10-464-742 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You need a valid passport to enter Armenia . U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry to Armenia for up to 180 days per year. For visits of longer than 180 days, you must apply for a residency permit through the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Visit their  website for the most current visa information.

• Armenian law requires that Armenian citizens, including dual nationals, enter and depart Armenia on Armenian passports . Even if you naturalized in the United States,  the Government of Armenia may still consider you an Armenian citizen . Children born in the United States to two Armenian citizens may also be considered Armenian citizens. Please read the information about Armenian citizenship at the website of the  Embassy of Armenia  and also review the Dual Nationality information in the “Local Laws and Special Circumstances” section below.
• If you possess an Armenian “special passport” (a residency permit), you still need a valid U.S. passport to enter Armenia. Border guards have refused to admit U.S. citizens carrying “special passports.” Please visit the  Embassy of Armenia  website for further details. 

Border with Azerbaijan: The border with Azerbaijan remains closed and the U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to certain border regions due to the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijani conflict, see the current Armenia Travel Advisory for details.

Border with Turkey : The land border with Turkey remains closed and is patrolled by Russian Border Guards.

Border with Iran:  See the  Iran travel advisory.   The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iran  due to arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. The Department of State maintains its  “Do Not Travel”  advisory, noting the “very high risk of arrest and detention of U.S. citizens in Iran, particularly U.S.-Iranian dual nationals.”

Russian Arrest Warrants: Armenia routinely shares information about foreign visitors with Russian law enforcement and security services. U.S. citizens may be detained by Armenian authorities upon entry or exit based on Russia law enforcement or security service information. Former and current U.S. government and military personnel with prior travel to Russia may face increased scrutiny.

Traveling Through Europe:  While Armenia is not located in the Schengen area, many flights to Armenia originate in that area of Europe. If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Your passport should be valid for  at least three months beyond the period of stay .
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country review, our  U.S. Travelers in Europe page ..
• You will need sufficient proof of funds  and a  return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the  Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Entry Restrictions : The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Armenia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Natural Disasters : Armenia is prone to earthquakes and landslides. For more information read our page on Crises and disasters abroad .

Crime:  Crime is relatively low, and violent crime is infrequent. When police are called, they routinely show up; however, they generally do not speak English.  Vehicle break-ins  and  theft  are rare but are the most common crimes. Police indicate that there is a criminal group in Yerevan that targets foreigners and burglarizes rented apartments when the victims are away.

• Matters involving  commercial and investment disputes  can take months or years to resolve as they work their way through the civil courts. The U.S.-Armenia Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) provides that in the event of a dispute between a U.S. investor and the Republic of Armenia, the investor may take the case to international arbitration.
• Credit card fraud and ATM card skimming occurs .

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Victims of Crime : U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the police and then the  U.S. Embassy  at (+374) 10-494-585 during business hours and (+ 374) 10-494-444 after hours.

Report crimes and requests for emergency services to local authorities by  dialing 911 . English speaking operators are available. Also contact the  U.S. Embassy  to report your situation.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime .

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a  list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Connect you to assistance for victims of domestic violence
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Armenia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems to be too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer. If they ask for help, you should refer to them to the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate so we can work with local authorities to assist.

Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting (kidnapping, arrested, medical emergency)
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. U.S. citizens have no reasonable expectation of privacy in Armenia. Telephone and electronic communications are subject to surveillance at any time and without advisory, which may compromise sensitive information.

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence include shelters, medical assistance, and legal aid. Victims of domestic violence may contact Women’s Support Center at + (374) 099-887-808 which provides assistance to victims of domestic violence and the  Light House shelter  at + (374) 93-327-834, + (374) 43-500-503, or “20-80” which provides shelter and support to victims. In cases of sexual violence or domestic violence, victims may contact the  Women’s Resource Center  at + (374) 077-991-280 and +374 94 565626, from 9:00 AM to midnight. Victims may also contact New Generation NGO at +374 60378989 or +374 60478989.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders may be unable to access areas at a distance from major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Please review the State Department’s page on  Arrests or Detention of U.S Citizens Abroad.  In addition, many people accused of crimes are held in local prisons in pretrial detention for between two and twelve months with the possibility of posting bail while waiting for a court hearing.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained,  ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately . See our  webpage  for further information. 

• Possession, trafficking, or the use of narcotic drugs, including marijuana, are illegal . A prescription for  medical marijuana  will not protect you from prosecution. If you are arrested for a drug offense, you could face detention during the investigation, which can take years to resolve, and a prison sentence after conviction. 
• Electronic cigarettes and related paraphernalia may be perceived as drug related.
• Armenia does not allow the import of various psychotropic drugs.

Customs and Exports :

• Local officials may occasionally seek bribes to perform basic duties.
• Customs authorities may enforce regulations concerning the import/export of items like firearms, pornography, and communications equipment. Please refer to the  Armenian Customs Service  for further information.
• The export of items of historical value, such as paintings, carpets, and old books, requires advanced authorization from the  Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports .

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, and they may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Dual nationals :

• Armenian legislation permits Armenian citizens to hold dual citizenship. Even if you naturalized in the United States,  the Government of Armenia may still consider you an Armenian citizen . Children born in the United States to two Armenian citizens may also be considered Armenian citizens. Please consult the Armenian government’s  website  on citizenship and read the  Armenian law on citizenship .
• Armenian law requires that Armenian citizens enter and depart Armenia on Armenian passports.  Individuals who are dual citizens, or could be, should consult with the  Embassy of Armenia  in Washington prior to traveling.
• Armenian males over the age of 18 are subject to mandatory military service.  Penalties for evading military service include  jail time  and a  substantial fine . Young dual-citizen U.S.-Armenian men are advised to  consult with the   Embassy of Armenia  prior to traveling. There have been instances where dual nationals have been detained at the airport upon arrival until they can resolve their military service issues. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Traveling to Play Sports: If you are traveling to play sports in Armenia, remember that you are subject to local laws. Prior to traveling, please understand the terms of your contract and have plans for after your contract ends. If you require legal assistance the U.S. embassy maintains a list of local attorneys . The U.S. Embassy cannot offer legal services.

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are  no antidiscrimination laws protecting  lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) individuals in Armenia. Although hate crime provisions exist within Armenia’s criminal code, they are not evenly enforced to aid in the prosecution of crimes against LGBTQI+ persons. Individuals face the potential of discrimination and harassment by state and private actors. The Department of State’s Human Rights Report documents that LGBTQI+ persons experienced physical violence, threats of violence, blackmail, and harassment. Police were often unresponsive to reports of abuse against LGBTQI+ individuals and at times, themselves mistreated LGBTQI+ persons.

See the  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section six of the  Human Rights Report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Armenia law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities but does not fully define “disability.” This law is not consistently enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility issues may include accessible facilities, access to services, and ease of movement. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure, including hospitals, government buildings, and transportation centers. These issues are universal throughout the country, including in Yerevan. There are limited sign language interpreters available. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Armenia to receive this information.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Informal taxis pose threats to people unfamiliar with local conditions, especially to women traveling alone. There have been occasional reports of taxi drivers sexually harassing single, female travelers. See our travel tips for  women travelers .

Outside major cities, medical facilities in Armenia are limited. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of  English-speaking doctors.   Elderly travelers  and those with  existing health problems  may be at risk from  inadequate medical facilities .

For emergency services in Armenia, dial 911.

Ambulance services are

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in Yerevan
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Armenia.

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
• and General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The risk of diarrheal disease is high throughout Armenia. Food and water precautions are recommended. Additionally, cases of  brucellosis  from consuming unpasteurized dairy products have been reported.

We do not pay medical bills.   Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas . Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Payment is made at the time of service with a credit card and then receipts are submitted later.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Armenian Ministry of Health or the National Institute of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Armenia.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons in Armenia. It is typically at its worst in the winter, with smog and particulate pollution in or near cities. Consider the impact air pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. .The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals    

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Armenia Ministry of Health  or  The National Institute of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Armenia.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

   Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Armenia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Armenia. For additional information visit the website of Armenia’s  Ministry of Health .

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:   The information below is provided for general reference only. Road conditions in Armenia differ significantly from those in the United States. Exercise caution when driving in Armenia. Reckless driving is common. Drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.

• Avoid traveling at night  due to poor road conditions and limited emergency response resources. Pedestrians often cross dark streets away from designated pedestrian crossings while wearing dark clothing. U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from driving at night outside the city limits of Yerevan.
• Yield to aggressive drivers  to reduce your risk of being a victim of aggression. Police may seek bribes during traffic stops.
• Winter travel can be hazardous, especially in mountainous areas.
• Practice defensive driving and watch out for  drunk drivers , especially on the weekends.
• Primary roads  are frequently in poor condition with stretches of missing pavement and large potholes. Some roads shown as primary roads on maps are unpaved and can narrow to one lane. Maps may be inaccurate.
• Secondary roads  are normally in poor condition and are often unpaved. Roads may not have signs. Police and emergency medical services may take a long time to reach remote regions.
• Gasoline quality ranges from good, at reliable stations in cities, to very poor. Do not buy gasoline and other fuels sold out of jars, barrels, and trucks by roadside merchants.
• Driver’s licenses from the United States are not valid for driving in Armenia. For more information on obtaining an Armenian driver’s license, please visit this website .
•  Exercise caution on roads near the border with Azerbaijan. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.

Traffic Laws:   In case of an accident, all vehicles must remain in place and stay until the arrival of the police. Tourists should always carry a copy of their passport.

Driving regulations are often ignored by drivers, and, as a result, accidents are common. The driving culture is aggressive. Pedestrians and bicycles may not be granted the right of way.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation, while inexpensive, may be unreliable and uncomfortable. Traveling by local unregistered taxis without meters can also prove difficult if a price is not negotiated ahead of time.

See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Visit Armenia’s national tourist office website .

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Armenia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Armenia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Armenia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Best of Armenia , Things To Do

8 armenia tours that will help you make the most of your trip.

This guide will take you through the best Armenia tours to take when you’re getting to know the fantastic country in the Caucasus.

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

Top Experiences and Day Tours from Yerevan:

• Day trip to Khor Virap, Areni Winery and Noravank Monastery (from $34)
• Armenia: Private Tour to Khor Virap Monastery (from $37)
• Khor Virap, Echmiadzin, and Zvartnots Cathedral from Yerevan (from $62)
• Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin (from $90)
• From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour (from $39)

Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander (a luxury in Yerevan)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in Yerevan
• 14th Floor (mid-range in Yerevan)
• Grand Hostel (budget in Yerevan)

Looking for the best way to get around Armenia? Click here to check rental car rates for Armenia!

Below is a short guide of the excursions, tours, and activities we note throughout this post in case you’re looking for a quick answer:

Best Armenia Tours

Armenia is a small country with high mountains, stunning nature, and amazing historical and natural sites throughout it.

Despite the small size of the country, it’s pretty challenging to travel in it sometimes because of the mountainous terrain.

And being on mountainous roads is almost inevitable when you’re heading to see the sights Armenia has to offer.

But the best thing about traveling in Armenia is that you can plan a day trip or take a day tour from Yerevan and discover three or more sights and be back to the capital after 14-15 hours.

If you are in Armenia for the first time and don’t know much about destinations you are planning to visit and don’t have an itinerary planned , then one of the best options is to take one of these Armenia tours from Yerevan that are very affordable and for every type of traveler.

This guide will talk about the best one-day tours from Yerevan, ranging from Garni and beyond.  And, it will describe each destination separately and why we think that travelers must visit them. It will also discuss the benefits of taking these day tours.

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Armenia?

Yes, we recommend you book travel insurance for your Armenia trip and tour.  While safety is pretty reliable here, you never know what kind of pickle you may end up in!

We recommend  using SafetyWing  as they specialize in widespread coverage at affordable rates. It is who we use when traveling!

>>  Click here to get your Armenia travel insurance quote

Our Top Picks For Tours of Armenia

There are many worthwhile tours in Armenia that you should consider taking when visiting the country.  We have listed our top picks that will help you see Armenia with ease and with no worries.

All of the mentioned tours depart from Yerevan and make for fantastic day trips, covering some of the best sights and scenery in Armenia.

1. From Yerevan: 4.5-Hour Garni-Geghard Tour

Duration: 5 hours Group tour ⇒  Book it Here

One of the most popular places to visit in Armenia is the amazing Garni Temple and the unique Geghard Monastery. This tour is the perfect option to discover these wonderful sights and learn their history while you are admiring nature and the place where it is located.

Garni is the best-preserved Pagan temple in the region and is located on the edge of the beautiful gorge that was used as an ancient royal summer house.

Geghard Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Armenia and a very interesting place to visit because of its unique architectural heritage.

You will be picked up from your hotel and a knowledgeable guide will tell you the stories of each place when you visit it.

On the way, you will stop to see Charent’s Arch, an interesting construction where you can see one of the most beautiful views of Ararat mountain and the valley.

2. Lake Sevan, Selim Pass, Jermuk, Hin Areni Winery, & Lunch

Duration: 12 hours Group tour ⇒  Book it Here

Sevan is the blue jewel of Armenia and the biggest lake in the Caucasus. It is very high above sea level.

Located approximately one hour away from Yerevan, Lake Sevan is one of the most beautiful places in Armenia with a peninsula, ancient churches tucked away, and sunny beaches. Lake Sevan is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the hot summer days.

Selim Pass is one of Armenia’s caravanserais built in the 14th century that was part of the Great Silk Road that connected Europe to the Orient.

The stunning construction is adorned with beautiful ornaments and animal sculptures where many caravans were stopping as resting points to sleep and continue their traveling.

On the way to Jermuk, one of the most popular mineral water spa towns in Armenia, you will stop to see Hin Areni winery. It is an old winery that produces some of Armenia’s best and most notable wines.

3. Armenia Group Tour to Tatev Cable Car and Areni Winery

Duration: 14 hours Group tour ⇒  Book it Here

On this tour from Yerevan, you have a great opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful monasteries in Armenia, located on the edge of a gorge high in the mountains.

To get to the 10th-century Tatev Monastery , you will take the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway (6km) and experience a trip to the monastery crossing over the Halidzor Gorge. The scenery will blow your mind.

But this tour has other benefits such as visiting the Areni wine region of Armenia where wine was made 6100 years ago in caves.

You’ll also have a chance to see the 18 meters high Shaki Waterfall where you can photograph and enjoy its views.

In addition to all of the aforementioned sights, you will have a chance to walk around ‘Armenian Stonehenge’, dating back 2500 years.  It is known as Zorats Karer (Karahunj) and it is considered to be known as an ancient observatory but it is still not fully discovered.

You’ll have a chance to try local wine and eat traditional Armenian food on this tour.

4. From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Noravank, & Areni Winery Day Trip

Duration: 9 hours Group tour ⇒  Book it Here

This tour will take you to one of the most prolific places in Armenia, Khor Virap Monastery. It is located very close to Ararat Mountain and has mind-blowing and memorable views.

Khor Virap actually means ‘deep dungeon’ and is one of the largest symbols of Armenia as the first Christian nation in the world and you just have to see it before you leave the country.

Your next stop and adventure will be to discover a Bronze Age cave called Areni-1 where archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest winery (6100 years old) and the oldest leather shoe.

Next is the 13th-century Noravank Monastery that is surrounded by unusual red-colored rocks and mountains. It is another jewel of Armenia and a worthwhile stop where you will see one of the best examples of medieval Armenian architecture.

5. Tbilisi: Full-Day Armenia Tour

Duration: 11 hours Group tour ⇒  Book it Here

This tour is giving you a unique opportunity to discover two countries at once in a comfortable and well-organized manner.

During the tour, you will experience delicious Armenian cuisine and see UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in deep and remote places surrounded by lush green forest and colorful mountains.

In less than two hours from Tbilisi , you will end up in the beautiful mountains of Armenia where there are 13th-century bridges, churches, fortresses, and other historical constructions.

6. Private Tour: Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Goshavank and Haghartsin

Duration: 9 hours Private tour ⇒  Book it Here

This tour is providing a great opportunity to discover one of the most sacred places in Armenia privately and without being in a large group.

During your private tour from Yerevan, you will discover remarkable places and amazing spots in Armenia like high-altitude Lake Sevan and the 9th-century Sevanavank Monastery. You’ll then see the green lungs of Armenia, and Dilijan, and further visit masterpiece churches Goshavank and Haghartsin.

But, that’s not all because your private adventure continues in the North of Armenia where the ancient monuments are aplenty and located in hidden spots surrounded by beautiful nature.

7. From Yerevan: Khor Virap, Etchmiadzin, and Zvartnots Tour

Duration: 6 hours Private tour ⇒  Book it Here

Yet another great Armenian tour to discover Khor Virap Monastery but this tour additionally allows its guests to visit other sites in Armenia.

After the Khor Virap Monastery visit, you will head to the holy city of Etchmiadzin where some of the oldest churches in the world exist, dating back to the 4th century.

After Etchmiadzin, you will enter the facility of ancient ruins of the 7th-century Zvartnots Cathedral which is located in a dramatic location in an open field. If you’re lucky, you will get to witness an incredible view of Mt. Ararat from there!

8. Yerevan Free Walking Tour

By taking the Yerevan Free walking tour , you will have a great opportunity to discover Armenia’s capital city for free and with an expert guide.

The interesting and knowledgeable tour will take place in the heart of Yerevan where the experienced, local guide will show you Yerevan from a different angle, helping you learn about the city and its neighborhoods.

What to Pack for Your Tour From Yerevan

Armenia experiences hot summers and fairly cold winters, so pack accordingly based on the season! We do recommend bringing a few of the items below regardless of the season (but, of course, sunscreen is more useful in the shoulder seasons and summer).

If you have additional questions on what to bring to Armenia, please feel free to ask!

During the high season, Armenia can be a very hot destination; with temperatures reaching 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) regularly.

So, make sure you have your sunscreen with you because there are many sites that are sitting under the open skies such as Khor Virap or Tatev Monastery where you need some protection from the scorching sun.

Power bank 

The item that every traveler needs is a good power bank . We definitely recommend taking one with you so you can be in reach and have the ability to take photos with your devices.

Some tours might take an entire day and you may not have a place to charge your phone throughout the day, making a power bank essential!

Walking shoes

All tours that you will take have comfortable transportation, but during the exploration of different sites, you will need some good walking shoes.

Armenia is a very rocky country, especially outside of Yerevan. These Yerevan day tours will likely involve a lot of walking around when you’re at the sights and we can not recommend wearing good and comfortable shoes enough!

Water bottle 

Armenia has great quality mountain water and for the most part, the water is free and comes from water fountains known as a Pulpulak .

In the hot season, take your water bottle with you so you can fill up it from the many water fountains throughout the country and can stay hydrated.

Where to Stay in Yerevan

We recommend staying in the center of Yerevan when you travel here.  The tours mentioned all depart from the city center of Yerevan and you won’t want to be too far away!  Here are our recommended hostels, hotels, and guesthouses in the city:

The Alexander (Splurge):  The Alexander is for those who want to be pampered and experience luxury on their trip to Armenia.  It is located right near Northern Avenue and Republic Square and is a very convenient spot for taking a tour of Armenia.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for The Alexander

Daniel Boutique Hotel (Mid-range):  Daniel Boutique Hotel is an affordable, mid-range hotel that offers modern stylings paired with fantastic Armenian hospitality.  The hotel is located in the heart of Yerevan and is a fantastic choice for travelers.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Daniel Boutique Hotel

Grand Hostel Yerevan (Budget):  Grand Hostel is located right on the edge of the city center and is a short walk to Republic Square and other main sights in Yerevan.  This family-owned hostel has spacious rooms and is impeccably clean.  They have privates and dorms and all are priced affordably.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Grand Hostel Yerevan

Let us know if you have any questions or concerns before booking your tour of Armenia. If you’re a tour company looking to promote your tours, please get in touch so we can head on one ourselves!

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Armenia Travel

Armenia travel takes you across a small, ancient land where unmatched history blends with magnificent landscapes. Sharp mountain ridges rise over towns while steep, curvy roads lead to feudal monasteries and forgotten Silk Road caravanserais. Alluring scents of oriental spices waft over colorful bazaars, where you can catch glimpses of exquisite handmade carpets. The clinking of brandy-filled glasses is carried by the evening breeze as long, elaborate toasts continue well into the night. Come and hear the echoes of the glorious past for yourself while enjoying the charms of modernity.

We invite you to learn more about this stunning destination in the Armenia Travel Guide below. If you are looking for more detailed information, try our Armenia Travel Tips , where you will find useful details that will help you to prepare for your upcoming journey.

Your Guide to Armenia by a Local Travel Expert

• 1. Is Armenia Worth Visiting?
• 2. Your Dream Vacation
• 3. Armenia Visa Matters
• 4. Is Armenia Safe for Travel?
• 5. Armenia Travel Seasons
• 6. Choose Your Transport
• 7. Armenia Travel Map
• 8. How Many Days Do You Need in Armenia?
• 9. At Your Service
• 10. Holidays and Festivals
• 11. Dos and Don’ts in Armenia
• 12. What to Eat While in Armenia
• 13. Armenian Brandy
• 14. Speak the Language
• 15. Virtual Armenia Travel Guide: Further Reading
• 16. Did You Know That…

Is Armenia Worth Visiting?

With hundreds of holiday destinations now available to international travelers, why should you choose Armenia, a miniscule country in the South Caucasus?

• Armenia is a land of alpine landscapes and unspoiled nature. The territory of Armenia is comprised almost entirely of the Lesser Caucasus mountain range, with no less than eighty-seven percent of the country lying between 1000 and 3000 meters above sea level. These daunting cliffs and highlands create a paradise for anyone who loves sky-piercing peaks, spectral wooden valleys and icy streams.
• Armenia is a country of ancient history , built upon Hellenistic temple ruins and the crumbling walls of medieval monasteries. The land’s unique hue is seen in the woven fabric of Armenian carpets and savored in each flavored sip of brandy. Yet contemporary Armenia is equally alluring, and even an avid traveler will find that its vibrant culture and alpine landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for endless adventure.
• Armenia is an affordable destination for thrifty travelers seeking all-inclusive guided tours. Your Armenia travel budget could be a fraction of what you would pay for a similar experience in Europe or North America. In-country transport is inexpensive and meals affordable, and the growing selection of hotels and guest houses opening their doors to independent tourists promise something for every budget.
• Armenia is off the beaten track and sure to satisfy your need to explore the unknown. You will not have to battle crowds of tourists, and may even find yourself the lone visitor at some of the land’s most breathtaking attractions.

In short, now is the perfect time to explore this hidden gem of a country and discover the thriving culture that is Armenia!

Your Dream Vacation

Armenian tourism means mountain hikes, mysterious thick-walled hermitages and delectable cuisine. Picture yourself strolling the wide, specious boulevards of Yerevan or diving into the cold waters of Lake Sevan. Each of our private tours can be crafted around your tastes, be it history, outdoor adventure or cultural immersion.

Our Armenia tourism packages are diverse, offering everything from quick jaunts to the country’s major attractions to extensive multi-country expeditions. Chances are we have a tour just for you. And if not, drop us an e-mail and we will immediately begin working with you on an Armenia travel itinerary tailored to your needs and interests.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Armenia?

Armenia’s visa policy is very straightforward and allows citizens of over 60 nations to enter the country visa-free for up to 6 months. Passport holders of another 60 plus countries are eligible to apply for a visa-on-arrival which allows them to stay in the country between 21 days and 4 months, depending on their country of origin. Armenia also offers e-visa services and visas for pick-up at Armenian embassies around the world.

Is Armenia Safe for Travel?

Armenians are a hospitable people who welcome travelers to their country with enthusiasm. Yet like anywhere, scam and petty theft do occasionally occur. Thus, travelers should remember to maintain basic precautions. Do not flash large amounts of cash in public and leave passports and valuables in a safe place at all times. Be sure to book an official taxi, particularly when traveling from Zvartnots International Airport, as scammers have been known to approach naive tourists and offer their services, only to demand triple the fare or more at the end of the ride.

Please be aware that Armenia and Azerbaijan have an unresolved territorial dispute. If you travel to the region of Nagorno-Karabakh while in Armenia, you will be banned from entering Azerbaijan .

Armenia Travel Seasons

Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Armenia boasts four distinct seasons. In terms of weather, spring and autumn are the most desirable travel times but winter and summer also have their perks, and the country can be considered a worthy travel destination year-round.

Winter is the perfect travel time for ski enthusiasts who would like to hit the slopes of local resorts such as Tsakhadzor. Even if winter sports is not your thing, the joyful festivities of New Year and Christmas are well worth the hassle of winter travel. Plus, since fewer tourists arrive in winter, you can expect cheaper accommodations and reduced travel costs.

Autumn: The harvest season brings gentle weather and vivid colors. Bazaars burst with pomegranates and grapes, while locals are busy making young wine and brandy. This season marked by festivals brings a second wave of tourists to this marvelous land.

Spring: The gorgeous spring season brings pleasant weather, green pastures and flowers in full bloom. Although you may get some rain, most days are sunny and warm, making April and May ideal for shorter hikes and outdoor excursions.

Summers in Armenia are hot and long, but they do promise juicy fruits and vegetables of every variety. Locals and foreigners alike escape the city walls this time of year to explore high mountain valleys or to bathe in the refreshing waters of Lake Sevan.

• Armenia Weather
• When is the best time to visit Armenia?

Choose Your Transport

Landlocked Armenia is surprisingly accessible. Direct flights connect Yerevan with Paris, Berlin, Moscow, Rome, Warsaw, Tbilisi and many other large cities. Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair or Wizz Air offer both permanent and seasonal summer connections. Railway links Yerevan with Tbilisi, and while the train has soviet-style carriages, it is very affordable and allows you to travel at night, leaving more time for sightseeing.

Thanks to Armenia's relaxed visa policy, crossing the border is usually fast and effortless. If you’re feeling adventurous, once you reach Yerevan you can try to explore the country with domestic trains and a shared taxi service called marshrutka. But if you prefer more individual arrangements or wish to avoid extra hassle, a drive in a private car will allow you to enjoy Armenia's charms in comfort and with minimal effort .

Armenia Travel Map

Use the Armenia Map to locate the country's prominent landmarks and learn what they have to offer.

How Many Days Do You Need in Armenia?

Each trip to Armenia is a unique experience shaped by the dreams, interests and schedules of individual travelers. You may already have your ideal itinerary in mind, but if you are looking for more ideas, the guidelines below can be a good starting point for your Armenia travel plans:

• Yerevan – Armenia's capital city, famous for the pink volcanic tuff prominent in the city center architecture. With broad alleys, sprawling parks and fascinating historical sites, it is a very alluring city. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major attractions: The Great Cascade , Yerevan Brandy Factory , Armenian Genocide Museum , History Museum How to get off the beaten path: Sample local delicacies at GUM Market or explore the Matenadaran collection of manuscripts and documents related to Armenian history.  
• Ararat – The province is named after the biblical Mount Ararat. Bordered by Turkey on the west and Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic on the south, the region offers a fascinating mix of cultures, historical sites and great views of the snow-capped peak of Mount Ararat, now located in Turkey. How long should I stay? 1 day Major attractions: Khor Virap Monastery How to get off the beaten path: Hike in spectacular Angel Canyon or explore Khosrov Forest State Reserve.  
• Armavir – Bookended by Mount Aragats and Mount Ararat, this historical region is among the most fertile in all Armenia. Once a robust political center, Armavir remains the most densely populated area of the country. How long should I stay? 1 day Major attractions: Etchmiadzin Cathedral , Zvartnots Temple How to get off the beaten path: Wander the ruins of the ancient Armavir fortress or stop at Sardarapat Memorial Complex , dedicated to Armenia's victory in the 1918 war with Turkey.  
• Gegharkunik – This landlocked region is home to Lake Sevan, the largest body of water in the Caucasus. How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major attractions: Lake Sevan , Sevanavank Monastery , Hayravank Monastery , Noraduz Cemetery How to get off the beaten path: visit the ruins of Orbelian Caravanserai or hike to the extinct Armagan Volcano (2829 m).  
• Kotayk – Located in the northeastern Ararat Plain, Kotayk offers wonderful landscapes and amazing historical sites. Easily accessible from Yerevan, the region is one of Armenia’s key tourist hubs. How long should I stay? 1 day Major attractions: Garni Temple , Geghard Monastery How to get off the beaten path: descend Garni Gorge to reach a monumental rock formation called Symphony of Stones, or enjoy winter sports at Tsakhkadzor Ski Resort .  
• Lori – Home to four large rivers, Lori is bursting with vegetation. Once an independent kingdom, the region houses one of Armenia’s three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. How long should I stay? 1 day Major attractions: Haghpat Monastery , Sanahin Monastery How to get off the beaten path: Stop at 6th-century Odzun Monastery or follow the steps of Alexander Pushkin with a visit to Pushkin Pass, where in 1828 the famous poet watched the funeral convoy of another famous Russian poet and diplomat, Alexander Griboyedov.  
• Tavush – This beautiful region is known for its alpine landscape. Most of its territory lies 800-1,000 meters above sea level and boasts of rocky hillsides covered in green meadows. How long should I stay? 1-3 days Major attractions: Goshavank Monastery , Dilijan National Park How to get off the beaten path: Explore the 10th -13th century Haghartsin Monastery .  
• Vayots Dzor – The least populated region of the country is practically devoid of woods but famous for its steep mountain gorges, rapid rivers, renowned Areni Winery and the best honey in the country. How long should I stay? 1 day Major attractions: Noravank Monastery , Areni Cave How to get off the beaten path: Enjoy relaxing spa treatment in a hot spring resort in Jermuk .  
• Syunik – Located in Armenia’s southernmost corner, Syunik is the motherland of extremes. The highest point of the region is Mount Kaputjugh, which rises to 3,906 meters, while its lowest point in the Meghri Gorge descends to just 375 meters. The land bewitches with its impassable canyons, alpine meadows, thick forests and rapid rivers. How long should I stay? 2 days Major attractions: Tatev Monastery , Goris How to get off the beaten path: Stop at Armenian Stonehedge, Zorats Karer , or visit the ancient cave settlement of Khndzoresk .

At Your Service

Whether you'd like to join a group tour, arrange a short day trip or get some extra help with in-country travel arrangements, we would love to help make your trip as smooth and memorable as possible. Our Armenia travel services include:

Armenia Holidays and Festivals

Visiting Armenia during one of their major festivals is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich and historical culture. Come lose yourself in graceful music, irresistible scents of home-cooked delights and the kindhearted embrace of hospitable Armenians.

New Year (31st December - 4th January) – Armenians mark the New Year with lavish holiday decorations and joyful social and cultural events. It is a fascinating mix of religious and secular activities that bring people together through a series of mutual visits. New Year is followed by Armenian Christmas (5th - 6th January), making January a fun-filled month of festivities. Best place to celebrate: Yerevan

Yerevan Wine Days (May) – The celebration of wine unites leading local wineries and restaurants, with each day offering a unique program at which you can taste Armenian delicacies. Live music and street performances accompany most feasts. Best place to celebrate: Yerevan

Dolma Festival (20th May) – Every year, the small village of Hnaberd celebrates the Armenian national dish called dolma. The delicious meal is comprised of minced meat wrapped in cabbage or vine leaves or stuffed into a vegetable such as a tomato or pepper. The festival in Hnaberd allows you to sample every variety and become a dolma expert! Best place to celebrate: Hnaberd, Aragatsnotn Province

Day of the First Republic (28th May) – This relatively new festival was established in the early 1990s to commemorate the 1918 proclamation of the independent Republic of Armenia. Expect cultural events, military parades and streets decorated with national flags. There is also a splendid fireworks show held in the evening on Republic Square in Yerevan. Best place to celebrate: Yerevan

Mulberry Festival (7th July) – Every summer, Armenians gather to celebrate and sample national and local delicacies made from mulberries. Participants can try everything from mulberry vodka to mulberry molasses and jams, and even enjoy mulberry master classes. Best place to celebrate: Karahunj village (4 km from Goris, Syunik Province)

Taraz Festival (August) – At this festival, perfect for those interested in traditional Armenian costumes, or taraz, some of the best Armenian designers come together to present their tradition-inspired collections. You also get to enjoy traditional music and dance performances. Best place to celebrate: Yerevan

If you would like to learn more about Armenian festivities, check out our list of national holidays and festivals.

• Armenia’s National Holidays
• Festivals in Armenia

Dos and Don’ts in Armenia

Our personal Armenia travel advice:

• Dress appropriately when entering a church: Be sure to wear long trousers or a skirt and to cover your arms and head with a scarf if you are a woman.
• Learn several basic expressions in Armenian and always greet people with "Barev Dzes".
• Show respect for the elderly by letting them take your seat on a bus or allowing them in front of you in the queue.
• Bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates if you are invited to someone's home.
• Leave Yerevan and explore the countryside.
• Try Armenian brandy.
• Bargain when purchasing goods at a local market.
• Behave loudly around the church or enter religious institutions in revealing clothing.
• Discuss politics, particularly Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh or Turkey.
• Smoke unless you are sure you are in a place where it is permitted.
• Forget to carry some cash (Armenian currency) on you. Outside of Yerevan, it may not be easy to find ATMs.
• Forget to tip when dining in a restaurant, as some Armenian waitstaff is compensated only with tips.
• Hesitate to ask for help or interact with local people. Armenians are very friendly and almost always happy to chat with you!

What to Eat While in Armenia

Here is our list of top dishes to try during your Armenia travels:

• Khorovats – Armenian barbeque made of grilled pork, lamb or beef. The meal comes with minimal seasoning, as Armenians believe spices should not detract from the meat's natural flavor.
• Kyufta – Minced, lightly spiced meatballs cooked in broth. The local twist comes with a hint of pomegranate molasses, with brown sugar occasionally added to the dish.
• Dolma – This popular Caucasian dish consists of minced meat, onion, rice and spices wrapped up in a vine or cabbage leaf. Armenians like to have fun with ingredients, so expect to taste lentils, tomatoes, eggplant, mint or onions.
• Ishkhan – A delectable fish dish consisting of a special species of trout from Lake Sevan. Armenians cook ishkhan in several different ways, but the most famous involves cooking the fish in wine, stuffing it with hazelnuts or apricots and seasoning it with basil, tarragon, chives and pepper.
• Spas – A delectable yoghurt-based soup that is eaten both hot and cold. It’s served with hulled wheat or rice, with an egg or yolk added to the mix to prevent curdling. Greens or herbs are occasionally used as garnish.
• Ghapama – This delicacy is made of scooped-out pumpkin filled with rice and dried fruits such as apples, prunes or apricots. The dish is then baked and cut into pieces before serving.
• Harrisa – A thick porridge made by slowly simmering dried or roasted cracked wheat (korkot) and chunks of lamb or chicken. Harissa is traditionally served during Easter, accompanied by pickled vegetables and lavash flatbread.
• Khash – A dish for thrill-seekers, khash is a winter soup made of boiled cow limbs and stomach. The meal is served hot, sometimes with pickles or lavash. Popular as a local hangover treatment.
• Gata – This traditional sweet pastry has many local variations. Gata is baked in the oven and stuffed with a variety of fillings, most often nuts, and is frequently eaten over a cup of surj, a strong local coffee.
• Sujukh – A delightfully healthy snack made from grape paste, nuts and flour. Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts are threaded onto a string, dipped into a thickened grape juice and left to dry into the shape of a sausage. Occasionally chocolate or raisins are also added to the mix.

Check out our Armenia Travel Guidebook for Food for an in-depth look at Armenian National Dishes.

• Armenian National Dishes

Armenian Brandy

Although the Armenian tradition of distilling brandy is possibly one of the oldest in the world, only in recent times has it become well-known outside the country. In the late 19th century, Armenians took advantage of French cognac's popularity and began to export their brandy to Russia. They labeled it as “Konyak”, the Russian spelling for cognac.

In 1900, Armenian brandy producer Nikolay Shustov won first place in a blind judging context at the Universal Expo of Paris. The jury awarded him the legal right to call his product “cognac”, a privilege which was unfortunately revoked after World War II.

Over time, Shustov's business evolved into the country's largest brandy producer. The Soviets nationalized the company, and in the 1940s the venture changed its name to Yerevan Ararat Wine - Brandy Factory. It was then divided into the Yerevan Ararat Brandy Company and the Yerevan Brandy Factory.

In 1999, the Armenian government sold the Yerevan Brandy Company to a French distiller, Pernod Ricard. Today, the business is commonly known as “Ararat” after its most famous brand. Meanwhile, Yerevan Ararat Brandy Factory went on to become the property of Multi Group Concern. It currently produces another famous Armenian variety of brandy, Noy, under the official name of Yerevan Ararat-Brandy-Wine-Vodka Factory.

An undocumented anecdote claims that Winston Churchill drank Armenian brandy with delight after Joseph Stalin offered it to him at the Yalta Conference. The Soviet leader reportedly then arranged to have 400 bottles of the brandy shipped to Churchill annually. Ararat has also been said to be the drink of choice of Agatha Christie and Frank Sinatra.

Ararat has also been said to be the drink of choice of Agatha Christie and Frank Sinatra.

Today, Ararat is the 4th-largest export product of Armenia. If you would like to learn more about Armenian brandy, we invite you to read our guide to Yerevan Ararat Brandy Factory .

Speak the Language

Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language is the best way to make local friends and connections during your travels in Armenia.

Here are some phrases that may come in handy:

Virtual Armenia Travel Guide: Further Reading

• Armenia Travel Tips
• Armenia Tours Pages

Did You Know That...

Armenia may be terra incognita to many, but the country's historical and cultural influence spreads far and wide:

• In 2011, archaeologists discovered the world's oldest winery in a cave near the village of Areni.
• The world's oldest shoe comes from the same excavation.
• Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as the state religion in 301 AD.
• Armenia is the ancestral homeland of Cher, Andre Agassi, Serj Tankian, Charles Aznavour and the Kardashians.
• Yerevan is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. It came to life in 782 BC, 29 years before Rome.
• In 1969, Armenian director Sergei Parajanov made an art film titled “The Color of Pomegranates”. The movie is a poetic tale of the life of 18th-century Armenian poet and troubadour Sayat-Nova. In September 2020, Lady Gaga released her new 911 music video inspired by the movie.

Armenia Guide

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Armenia travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, armenia - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Armenia

Eastern border with Azerbaijan - Avoid all travel

• within 5 km of the eastern border with Azerbaijan
• the M16/H26 road between the cities of Ijevan and Noyemberyan

Border with the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakchivan - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to within 1 km of the border with the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan due to the risk of armed clashes.

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Border areas

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in areas along the international borders with Azerbaijan is extremely limited.

The security environment remains highly volatile at the eastern border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

There have been periodic outbreaks of violence in these areas for several decades and, while there have been no major incidents since Azerbaijan’s military operations in September 2023, tensions remain heightened. As part of the ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia, there are also occasional ceasefire violations and clashes on the Nakhchivan border.

All border crossings into Azerbaijan are closed and the border is heavily militarized.

Armed clashes occur occasionally at multiple points along the international border, including near the following Armenian cities:

Border areas with Azerbaijan are subject to extremely dangerous military activities, such as:

• mortar and artillery shelling
• rocket fire
• drone attacks
• heavy gunfire

If you choose to travel near the border with Azerbaijan despite this advisory:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media to stay informed on current clashes
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

Türkiye

The land border between Türkiye and Armenia is closed.

The border crossing near the Armenian town of Meghri is the only official access to Iran from Armenia.

Russian border guards are present along the border and have set up several checkpoints to deter smuggling and other illegal activities into Armenia from Iran. 

Iran’s military occasionally conducts operations in the area.

• Only cross at official border crossings
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Avoid travelling at night
• Avoid travelling alone

Petty crime

Pickpocketing, mugging, purse snatching and theft from cars and homes occur.

During your stay:

• keep your car and home doors locked and windows closed at all times
• don’t leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle
• make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• don’t show signs of affluence

Police officers don’t regularly patrol streets and response may take longer than expected.

There is a low threat of terrorism in Armenia, but attacks could occur at any time.

In 2022, there have been bomb alerts in Yerevan targeting:

• Zvartnots International Airport
• metro stations
• shopping malls
• the city hall
• the national assembly

Targets could also include:

• places of worship
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

In the event of a bomb alert:

• expect heightened presence of security forces and disruptions to air traffic and public transportation
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow instructions of local authorities and security forces, including evacuation orders
• don’t go near the targeted areas

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Yerevan and the vicinity of institutional buildings, and are mostly peaceful.

In 2022, large-scale demonstrations took place in several cities across Armenia over the government’s posture toward Azerbaijan after the Nagorno-Karabakh war. They have led to acts of vandalism and violent clashes amongst demonstrators and with security forces in certain places.

Further demonstrations are likely.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions.

Road conditions have improved in recent years in Yerevan and on main roads. Roads in rural areas are poorly maintained and dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting
• bad road markings and signage
• large potholes
• unpaved sections
• lack of road shoulders
• poor snow clearing during winter

Emergency services may take a long time to reach you if you’re involved in an accident outside of urban areas. You must have a warning triangle in your car at all times in case of an emergency.

Roads in Armenia – Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Armenia

Driving habits

Drivers are often distracted, frequently break traffic regulations, drive at excessive speeds and lack driving skills.

Pedestrians often cross in the middle of the road and drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is common, especially on weekends.

U-turns and lane changes without warning occur frequently.

If you’re driving in Armenia:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving at night
• use main roads and highways as much as possible
• don’t stop in isolated areas
• always carry a cellphone and a charger

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

Be careful when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN

Tourist scams

There have been reports of foreigners being pickpocketed or forced to pay the bill by friendly strangers who:

• offer to help, especially near ATMs
• ask you to take a photo
• invite you for drinks at a bar

While travelling:

• avoid showing signs of affluence, carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Overseas fraud

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, kayaking, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions  consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation  
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• always wear a lifejacket during water activities.

Public transportation

Taxis are widely available in Yerevan, but vehicles are often in poor condition and don't always have standard security features like seatbelts.

Most taxi drivers:

• smoke and talk on the phone while driving
• don’t accept credit cards
• can’t make change for large bills

There are several mobile applications on which you can order taxis with safer vehicles and fixed fares.

If you choose to take a taxi:

• confirm the driver's identity and license plate before getting into the car
• never share a cab with strangers
• make sure the driver does not pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
• negotiate the fare in advance
• have small bills available for payment.

Trains operate in Armenia, but mainly serve destinations in the north of the country. Be careful when travelling by train as wagons are often overcrowded and not always well-maintained.

• Make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t leave the compartment unattended
• Keep the door locked from the inside

When travelling outside of Yerevan, avoid using minibuses called "Marshrutka".

Drivers are reckless and are often involved in accidents. The vehicles are overcrowded and not always equipped with seatbelts.

Petty crimes such as theft occur, and drivers may overcharge you.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Armenian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Armenia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Transit visa: required Business visa: required

You must obtain a visa before departure either from:

• Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website or
• the closest Embassy of Armenia

Apply for an e-visa - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia

Dual citizenship

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, you might be required to enter and exit Armenia on an Armenian passport. Contact the nearest Armenian diplomatic office to confirm this information.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Adequate medical services and facilities are available in Yerevan. Outside Yerevan, medical personnel, services and facilities are limited and may not offer the level of care you may be used to in Canada.

Medical professionals may require cash payments before providing care, even if you have travel insurance that covers hospital stays.

Serious medical cases may require evacuation to a country equipped with adequate facilities.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medication may not be available in Armenia.

If you are taking prescription medication, you must verify its legality.

• Bring a sufficient supply of your medication
• Always leave your medication in its original packaging
• Keep your medication in your hand luggage
• Keep a copy of your prescription with you

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Armenia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Armenia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Armenia authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

There are severe penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis.

You could face:

• heavy fines
• lengthy jail sentences

Drinking and driving

There is zero tolerance and severe penalties for drinking and driving in Armenia.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0%.

If you’re convicted of drunk driving, you could face jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to takes photographs or videos near sensitive areas along the border of Armenia, including:

• military installations
• engineering facilities
• surveillance towers
• transportation equipment

This prohibition also applies to drones.

You need an international driving permit or an Armenian driver’s license to drive in Armenia.

Car insurance is mandatory in Armenia.

International Driving Permit

Imports and exports

You must obtain permission from Armenian authorities prior to importing certain goods and products, including:

• pharmaceuticals
• weapons and components of weapons
• communication equipment

The import and export of cultural and historical items is also regulated. This includes:

• archaeological objects
• sculptures and paintings
• ancient books and documents
• musical instruments
• furniture and carpets
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Information for tourists, importers and exporters – Customs service of the Republic of Armenia

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Armenian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex. 

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. 

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Armenia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

National obligations

Canadian-Armenian citizens may also be subject to national obligations, such as taxes and military service. Check your status with the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Canada. Authorities may detain dual nationals who try to avoid military service and face large fines or imprisonment.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Armenia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Armenia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Armenia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

The currency is the Armenian dram (AMD).

Some ATMs may not accept foreign bank cards. You can make withdrawals at bank counters using your passport as identification. Most banks do not accept traveler's cheques and treasury bills. 

You must declare all foreign currency in your possession exceeding 10,000 USD or its equivalent:

• upon arrival
• upon departure

Foreign currency declarations apply to:

• traveller's cheques
• treasury bills

If you’re travelling with bearer securities in your possession, you must declare it to customs officials regardless of its value.

Armenia’s climate is continental, and temperatures vary geographically. In Yerevan, summers are hot and winters are mild.

A vast portion of the territory is at an altitude of 1000m above sea level where temperatures are lower than in the capital and rainfall more frequent.

Earthquakes

Armenia is located in an active seismic zone. Although no major events have occurred in recent years, an earthquake could strike at any time.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

The rainy season generally extends from March to June and from October to November.

Seasonal flooding can affect overland travel and the provision of essential services, especially in the Ararat and Shirak valleys. Landslides could occur, roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local media for updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101
• Emergency services: 112

Consular assistance

On October 25, 2023, the Government of Canada inaugurated the Embassy of Canada to the Republic of Armenia in Yerevan. At this time, consular services continue to be provided by the Honorary Consul of Canada in Yerevan and the Embassy of Canada to Russia.

Armenia (Consular and Trade Commissioner services)

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Russia, in Moscow and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

US House passes legislation to sanction ICC over Gaza warrants bid

The US House of Representatives has voted to pass legislation that would sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) after its prosecutor applied for arrest warrants against Israeli officials, the BBC reports.

The move comes after The Hague-based court’s prosecutor said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant should be arrested on charges relating to the war in Gaza.

The prosecutor is also seeking warrants for three leaders of Hamas.

The bill, proposed by pro-Israel Republicans, targets ICC officials involved in the case by blocking their entry to the US.

On Tuesday, it passed with a majority of Republican support by a vote of 247-155. Two Republicans voted “present” and 42 pro-Israel Democrats crossed the aisle to back the legislation.

Though the bill passed in the House, it is not expected to become law.

The legislation will likely be ignored by Democrats who control the US Senate, where it would have to pass before it could be signed into law by the president.

But President Joe Biden has also indicated that he “strongly opposes” the bill and the administration has said it does not support the sanctions.

If it did become law, however, the legislation would also revoke any US visas held by ICC officials and restrict them from making property transactions in the US.

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Eurosatory 2024 to welcome Armenia for first time

Lithuania to provide 100 000 euros in humanitarian aid to flood-affected Armenia

Armenia, Georgia to submit joint bid to host 2029 FIFA U20 World Cup

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UEFA EURO 2024: Meet the 24 teams

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Article summary

Get the full lowdown on the 24 teams competing for glory in Germany.

Article top media content

Article body

How they qualified, top scorers, pedigree, key players and the coach – all you need to know about the 24 teams competing for glory at UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany.

Group A fixtures vs Scotland (Munich, 14 June, 21:00) vs Hungary (Stuttgart, 19 June, 18:00) vs Switzerland (Frankfurt, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Qualified automatically as hosts

Pedigree EURO best: Winners 1972, 1980 (both as West Germany), 1996 EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-0 to England

Coach: Julian Nagelsmann Nagelsmann has been on something of a roller-coaster ride since succeeding Hansi Flick in September 2023, but friendly wins against France and Netherlands in March seem to have sparked optimism and belief. The tactically astute 36-year-old selects players based on form, and convincing Toni Kroos to return from international retirement could turn out to be his best move yet.

Did you know? Germany are appearing at a record 14th EURO. They did not qualify for the first three editions (1960, 1964 and 1968) but have not missed a finals since.

Group A fixtures vs Germany (Munich, 14 June, 21:00) vs Switzerland (Cologne, 19 June, 21:00) vs Hungary (Stuttgart, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group A runners-up: P8 W5 D2 L1 F17 A8 Qualifying top scorer: Scott McTominay (7)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (1992, 1996, 2020) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Steve Clarke Scotland have reached back-to-back European Championships under Clarke, the first Scotland manager to achieve that, and have qualified directly for a major finals for the first time since 1998. If they can reproduce their fine qualifying form, the next target for Clarke and company will be to make further history by becoming the first Scotland squad to progress beyond the group stage at a finals tournament.

Did you know? This is the second time Scotland have qualified for back-to-back European Championships.

Group A fixtures vs Switzerland (Cologne, 15 June, 15:00) vs Germany (Stuttgart, 9 June, 18:00) vs Scotland (Stuttgart, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group G winners: P8 W5 D3 L0 F16 A7 Qualifying top scorer: Barnabás Varga, Dominik Szoboszlai (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Third place (1964) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Marco Rossi Having led Hungary from Nations League C to A, come agonisingly close to progressing from a EURO 2020 group containing Germany, France and Portugal, and now, unbeaten, reached EURO 2024, Rossi's popularity is sky high among players and fans alike. The Italian appears equally smitten, taking Hungarian citizenship. The togetherness, discipline and belief he has instilled among his squad is remarkable, with Hungary looking increasingly capable of springing a surprise or two.

Did you know? Hungary hold the longest current unbeaten run of all EURO 2024 finalists: 14 matches since a 2-0 home defeat by Italy in the Nations League in September 2022. That represents Hungary's longest unbeaten sequence since Ferenc Puskás and the Mighty Magyars – 18 games between July 1954 and February 1956 – under Gusztáv Sebes.

Group A fixtures vs Hungary (Cologne, 15 June, 15:00) vs Scotland (Cologne, 19 June, 21:00) vs Germany (Frankfurt, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group I runners-up: P10 W4 D5 L1 F22 A11 Qualifying top scorer: Zeki Amdouni (6)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2020) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 3-1 on penalties to Spain (1-1 aet)

Coach: Murat Yakin The 49-year-old has been at the 'Nati' helm since summer 2021. He oversaw Switzerland's run to the last 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the knockout phase for a fifth straight major tournament. After a low-key end to their EURO 2024 qualifying campaign, Yakin will want his team to regain their famed consistency as they bid to extend that impressive run.

Did you know? EURO '96 was Switzerland's first European Championship finals; this year marks their sixth finals appearance in the last eight editions.

Group B fixtures vs Croatia (Berlin, 15 June, 18:00) vs Italy (Gelsenkirchen, 20 June, 21:00) vs Albania (Düsseldorf, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group A winners: P8 W7 D0 L1 F25 A5 Qualifying top scorers: Joselu, Álvaro Morata (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1964, 2008, 2012) EURO 2020: Semi-finals, lost 4-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)

Coach: Luis de la Fuente A likeable Basque who won the Spanish Liga as a full-back with Athletic Club, the Spain boss has the winning habit. His side beat Group B rivals Italy and Croatia as they won the UEFA Nations League last summer, and he previously led national teams to EURO glory at under-age levels – the U19s in 2015 and the U21s in 2019. The levels he can summon from his big players after brilliant club seasons will dictate Spain's trajectory.

Did you know? Spain are the only national team to have won three continental and world titles in a row: EURO 2008, the 2010 World Cup and EURO 2012.

Group B fixtures vs Spain (Berlin, 15 June, 18:00) vs Albania (Hamburg, 19 June, 15:00) vs Italy (Leipzig, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group D runners-up: P8 W5 D1 L2 F13 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Andrej Kramarić (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (1996, 2008) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 5-3 aet to Spain

Coach: Zlatko Dalić Since taking over in 2017, Dalić has guided Croatia to astonishing achievements, including back-to-back World Cup medals by reaching the final in 2018 and securing third place in 2022. Defeats in the EURO 2020 round of 16 and 2023 Nations League final, both by Spain, have set up a highly anticipated rematch in their opening game here.

Did you know? Croatia have qualified for seven out of eight EURO final tournaments as an independent nation, and have proceeded to the knockout stage in four of their six appearances to date.

Group B fixtures vs Albania (Dortmund, 15 June, 21:00) vs Spain (Gelsenkirchen, 20 June, 21:00) vs Croatia (Leipzig, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group C runners-up: P8 W4 D2 L2 F16 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Davide Frattesi (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1968, 2020) EURO 2020: Winners

Coach:   Luciano Spalletti The much-travelled Tuscan took over from Roberto Mancini in August, just after leading Napoli to a historic Scudetto title. He wasted little time in conveying his football philosophy to the Azzurri squad, helping them reach the finals in Germany and starting to rebuild the national team by mixing veterans of the EURO 2020 triumph with a new generation of players.

Did you know? The Ukraine stalemate which confirmed Italy's place in Germany was then 24-year-old goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma's 60th appearance for the Azzurri. His predecessor, Gianluigi Buffon, reached the same milestone as a 28-year-old in another goalless draw with Ukraine, ending his career with a record 176 caps.

Group B fixtures vs Italy (Dortmund, 15 June, 21:00) vs Croatia (Hamburg, 19 June, 15:00) vs Spain (Düsseldorf, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group E winners: P8 W4 D3 L1 F12 A4 Qualifying top scorers: Jasir Asani, Nedim Bajrami (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (2016) EURO 2020: did not qualify

Coach: Sylvinho Sylvinho's appointment in January 2023 heralded a new era for the Albanian national team. With his background in elite football, the Brazilian has succeeded in rejuvenating the side's playing style and instilling a winning mentality. His leadership has brought unity and cohesion, creating a team capable of surprising their opponents at EURO 2024.

Did you know? Under Sylvinho, Albania have never lost a game after taking the lead – a sequence of six matches into the Brazilian's tenure.

Group C fixtures vs Denmark (Stuttgart, 16 June, 18:00) vs Serbia (Munich, 20 June, 15:00) vs England (Cologne, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group H runner-up: P10 W7 D1 L2 F20 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Benjamin Šeško (5)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (2000) EURO 2020: did not qualify

Coach: Matjaž Kek Back for a second finals after steering Slovenia to the 2010 World Cup, the former centre-back resumed command in November 2018, leading his country to promotion from Nations League League C before overseeing a successful EURO qualifying campaign. The 62-year-old is confident his side can give their Group C rivals a run for their money.

Did you know? Slovenia met England at the 2010 World Cup, Jermain Defoe scoring the only goal in a narrow defeat which cost Kek's men a last-16 place. They face the Three Lions in their final Group C game in Germany.

Group C fixtures vs Slovenia (Stuttgart, 16 June, 18:00) vs England (Frankfurt, 20 June, 18:00) vs Serbia (Munich, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group H winners: P10 W7 D1 L2 F19 A10 Qualifying top scorer: Rasmus Højlund (7)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1992) EURO 2020: Semi-final, lost 2-1 aet to England

Coach: Kasper Hjulmand Hjulmand led Denmark to the semi-finals at EURO 2020 – their best result since winning the tournament in 1992. The coach played an important role as the nation came together after Christian Eriksen's on-field cardiac arrest, and following a disappointing World Cup the former Lyngby, Nordsjælland and Mainz boss will aim to give Denmark fans another summer to remember.

Did you know? To date, Denmark have taken part in eight EUROs since the introduction of the group stage, advancing to the knockout phase on four of those occasions.

Group C fixtures vs England (Gelsenkirchen, 16 June, 21:00) vs Slovenia (Munich, 20 June, 15:00) vs Denmark (Munich, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group G runners-up: P8 W4 D2 L2 F15 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Aleksandar Mitrović (5)

Pedigree EURO best: Runners-up (as Yugoslavia, 1960, 1968) EURO 2020: Did not qualify Coach: Dragan Stojković Having played at EURO '84 with Yugoslavia and at the 2000 finals with Serbia and Montenegro, 'Piksi' has steered his nation to their first EURO in 24 years – and their first as Serbia. One of the best midfielders in Serbian history, he took charge of the national team on his 56th birthday in 2021. His charisma and desire have propelled the Eagles to the 2022 World Cup and now EURO 2024.

Did you know? Yugoslavia were runners-up at the first-ever EURO in 1960; the Soviet Union denied them the title with an extra-time winner in Paris.

Group C fixtures vs Serbia (Gelsenkirchen, 16 June, 21:00) vs Denmark (Frankfurt, 20 June, 18:00) vs Slovenia (Cologne, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group C winners: P8 W6 D2 L0 F22 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Harry Kane (8)

Pedigree EURO best: Runners-up (2020) EURO 2020: Runners-up, lost 3-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)

Coach: Gareth Southgate After reaching a EURO final as well as a World Cup quarter-final and semi-final in his three major tournaments in charge, Southgate will be desperate for this to be fourth time lucky. The former Three Lions centre-back, a hugely popular figure with his players, will seek to get the best out of the vast amount of talent at his disposal in Germany.

Did you know? England have lost just once in their last 65 European Championship and World Cup qualifiers: a 2-1 defeat to Czechia in the EURO 2020 preliminaries.

Group D fixtures vs Poland (Hamburg, 16 June, 15:00) vs France (Leipzig, 21 June, 21:00) vs Austria (Berlin, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group B runners-up: P8 W6 D0 L2 F17 A7 Qualifying top scorers: Cody Gakpo, Calvin Stengs, Wout Weghorst (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1988) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-0 to Czechia

Coach: Ronald Koeman Koeman had a stuttering start to his second spell in charge of the Oranje, losing three of his first four matches – against France, Croatia and Italy. However, he steadied the ship, with the Dutch winning all their group qualification games bar those against the French. A EURO winner as a player in 1988, the 61-year-old would achieve immortality in the Netherlands if he repeated the feat as coach.

Did you know? Wim Kieft's fortuitous effort against the Republic of Ireland during Oranje's victorious EURO ‘88 campaign was the Netherlands' first headed goal at a major finals. It was also the only one of the eight Dutch strikes in West Germany that was not finished or created by Marco van Basten.

Group D fixtures vs Austria (Düsseldorf, 17 June, 21:00) vs Netherlands (Leipzig, 21 June, 21:00) vs Poland (Dortmund, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group B winners: P8 W7 D1 L0 F29 A3 Qualifying top scorer: Kylian Mbappé (9)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1984, 2000) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 5-4 on penalties to Switzerland (3-3 aet)

Coach: Didier Deschamps One of the most decorated figures in world football, Deschamps will be eager to get his hands on the one trophy that has evaded his clutches as a coach. He came agonisingly close in 2016, and that heartbreak should stoke the fire within this fierce competitor. A cool character and a measured communicator, the World Cup winner looks well placed to lead his side to glory.

Did you know? France's Antoine Griezmann holds the record for most consecutive appearances in international football history, after featuring in 84 games between August 2017 and November 2023.

Group D fixtures vs Netherlands (Hamburg, 16 June, 15:00) vs Austria (Berlin, 21 June, 18:00) vs France (Dortmund, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group E third place: P8 W3 D2 L3 F10 A10. Qualified via play-offs after beating Estonia and Wales Qualifying top scorer: Robert Lewandowski (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2016) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Michał Probierz Probierz replaced Fernando Santos in September and steered his nation through the play-offs to ensure participation in his first major international tournament. Probierz spent his playing days in Poland and Germany, while his best coaching achievement in club football has been winning the Polish Cup with Jagiellonia Białystok and Cracovia.

Did you know? Poland have regularly appeared at World Cup finals yet did not qualify for their first EURO until 2008. Since then they have not missed a single edition of the tournament.

Group D fixtures vs France (Düsseldorf, 17 June, 21:00) vs Poland (Berlin, 21 June, 18:00) vs Netherlands (Berlin, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group F runners-up: P8 W6 D1 L1 F17 A7 Qualifying top scorer: Marcel Sabitzer (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Round of 16 (2020) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-1 aet to Italy

Coach: Ralf Rangnick Known as one of the godfathers of 'gegenpressing', Rangnick has left an indelible mark on modern football and Austria's current crop of players. No longer a side inhibited by a defensive mindset, Rangnick's charges have produced some eye-catching attacking performances. Belief is growing that Austria can make the knockout stage, like they did in 2021.

Did you know? Christoph Baumgartner grabbed international headlines in March when he scored the fastest international goal of all time after just SIX seconds against Slovakia.

Group E fixtures vs Romania (Munich, 17 June, 15:00) vs Slovakia (Düsseldorf, 21 June, 15:00) vs Belgium (Stuttgart, 26 June, 18:00) Qualifying Group C third place: P8 W4 D2 L2 F11 A8. Qualified via play-offs after beating Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland Qualifying top scorer: Viktor Tsygankov (3) Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2020) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 4-0 to England Coach: Serhiy Rebrov One of Ukraine's best-ever forwards, Rebrov formed a formidable partnership with Andriy Shevchenko in the late 1990s. He started his coaching journey at Dynamo Kyiv in 2014, winning the league and the Ukrainian Cup twice before taking charge of the national team during EURO 2024 qualifying, following successful spells in Saudi Arabia, Hungary and the United Arab Emirates. His side narrowly missed out on second place in Group C but got to Germany via the play-offs. Did you know? Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion in Ukraine, the national team played all of their nominal home matches abroad in qualifying: two in Poland and one each in Slovakia, Czechia and Germany.

Group E fixtures vs Belgium (Frankfurt, 17 June, 18:00) vs Ukraine (Düsseldorf, 21 June, 15:00) vs Romania (Frankfurt, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group J runners-up: P10 W7 D1 L2 F17 A8 Qualifying top scorer: Lukáš Haraslín (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (as Czechoslovakia, 1976), round of 16 (as Slovakia, 2016) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Francesco Calzona Calzona took the reins in August 2022, replacing Pavel Hapal. He started with a home stalemate against Luxembourg in EURO qualifying but has not looked back since, guiding Slovakia to victories in all their remaining games other than those against table-topping Portugal. Since February, he has combined the national team job with the head coach position at Napoli.

Did you know? EURO 2016 was Slovakia's first European Championship finals since the separation of Czechoslovakia in 1993. Ján Kozák's team reached the round of 16, being eliminated by Germany.

Group E fixtures vs Slovakia (Frankfurt am Main, 17 June, 18:00) vs Romania (Cologne, 22 June, 21:00) vs Ukraine (Stuttgart, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group F winners: P8 W6 D2 L0 F22 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Romelu Lukaku (14)

Pedigree EURO best: Final (1980) EURO 2020: Quarter-final, lost 2-1 to Italy

Coach: Domenico Tedesco Born in southern Italy, Tedesco played in the German lower divisions before moving into coaching. In 2017, as a 31-year-old, he took charge of German second-tier club Erzgebirge Aue, helping them avoid relegation. He later managed Schalke and Spartak Moscow before winning the German Cup and reaching the Europa League semi-finals with Leipzig. Now ready to take on his biggest challenge yet.

Did you know? Since replacing Roberto Martínez, coach Tedesco is unbeaten in his first year directing the national team.

Group E fixtures vs Ukraine (Munich, 17 June, 15:00) vs Belgium (Cologne, 22 June, 21:00) vs Slovakia (Frankfurt, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group I winners: P10 W6 D4 L0 F16 A5 Qualifying top scorers: Nicolae Stanciu, Valentin Mihăilă, Denis Alibec (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2000) EURO 2020: Did not qualify

Coach: Edward Iordănescu Son of Anghel Iordănescu, Iordănescu Jr's Romania side came through qualifying unscathed to book their place at this EURO following an eight-year absence. Synonymous with a modern and meticulous approach to match preparation, Iordănescu's goal is to build an exciting new generation for the national team. He will strive to get the most out of his players in Germany and give the travelling Romania fans plenty to cheer about.

Did you know? Edward Iordănescu's father Anghel coached the team to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1994 – their best performance at a major championship.

Group F fixtures vs Czechia (Leipzig, 18 June, 21:00) vs Türkiye (Dortmund, 22 June, 18:00) vs Georgia (Gelsenkirchen, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group J winners: P10 W10 D0 L0 F36 A2 Qualifying top scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (10)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (2016) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 1-0 to Belgium

Coach: Roberto Martínez Fernando Santos's replacement has made an impressive start as Portugal boss, overseeing a perfect qualifying campaign for the EURO 2016 winners. The Spaniard has also won over fans and players by learning to communicate in excellent Portuguese. He has built a group that will form the core of his squad in Germany, while also introducing new tactical ideas in the hope of extracting the max from the preternaturally talented players at his disposal.

Did you know? Cristiano Ronaldo is in line for his sixth EURO finals appearance. The 39-year-old holds the record for most goals (14) and appearances (25) at the tournament. João Neves was not even born when Ronaldo started to shine for the Seleção at EURO 2004.

Group F fixtures vs Portugal (Leipzig, 18 June, 21:00) vs Georgia (Hamburg, 22 June, 15:00) vs Türkiye (Hamburg, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group E runners-up: P8 W4 D3 L1 F12 A6 Qualifying top scorers: Tomáš Souček, Václav Černý (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (as Czechoslovakia, 1976), runners-up (as Czechia, 1996) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 2-1 to Denmark

Coach: Ivan Hašek A former central midfielder who captained Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup, Hašek won 56 caps, scoring five goals. He also lifted six league titles with Sparta Praha, later playing in France and Japan. His coaching career includes spells at Sparta as well as clubs in France, Japan and the Gulf States, along with the Gabon and Lebanon national teams. The 60-year-old wants his charges to play positive attacking football.

Did you know? Czechia have won all three EURO penalty shoot-outs they have been involved in (including as Czechoslovakia). They have also converted all 20 spot kicks taken in those shoot-outs.

Group F fixtures vs Türkiye (Dortmund, 18 June, 18:00) vs Czechia (Hamburg, 22 June, 15:00) vs Portugal (Gelsenkirchen, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying 4th place in a Group A: P8 W2 D2 L4 F12 A18. Qualified via play-offs after beating Luxembourg and Greece Qualifying top scorer: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Debut

Coach:   Willy Sagnol   A multi-decorated player at club and international level, Sagnol takes a major step forward as a coach at this tournament. Using his enormous big-match experience, he found the right words to motivate his team for their qualifying play-offs. The 47-year-old has an air of authority and will give Georgia the confidence to travel to this EURO with a sense of ambition beyond merely being there.

Did you know?   Georgia have qualified for the first time as an independent country, although three representatives of the nation won this competition's inaugural edition in 1960. That USSR team included Givi Chokheli, Mikhei Meskhi and Slava Metreveli, with Zaur Kaloev an unused substitute. Metreveli equalised in the final against Yugoslavia, also setting up the clinching goal. Overall, 11 Georgians have played at EUROs, including Murtaz Khurtsilava, Revaz Dzodzuashvili and Givi Nodia, runners-up in 1972, and Tengiz Sulakvelidze, likewise in 1988.

Group F fixtures vs Georgia (Dortmund, 18 June, 18:00) vs Portugal (Dortmund, 22 June, 18:00) vs Czechia (Hamburg, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group D winners: P8 W5 D2 L1 F14 A7 Qualifying top scorers: Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Cenk Tosun (2)

Pedigree EURO best: Semi-finals (2008) EURO 2020: Group stage Coach: Vincenzo Montella After two successful seasons in charge of Adana Demirspor in the Turkish Super League, Montella was named national team coach with three EURO 2024 qualifying matches still to play, leading Türkiye to the finals with victories over Croatia and Latvia and a draw against Wales. Having helped Italy reach the EURO 2000 final as a player, Montella will make his first appearance as a coach at the European Championship.

Did you know? Türkiye were in the same group as Portugal and Czechia at EURO 2008. They defeated the latter in their final group matches in both 2008 and 2016, triumphing 3-2 and 2-0 respectively.

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