If you’re looking for a unique place to visit that’s full of history, culture and breathtaking scenery, then Armenia should be at the top of your list.
The easygoing capital of Yerevan is one of the best places to visit in Armenia, as it’s packed with smart cafes, pretty parks and elegant squares.
1. Gnishik Canyon
A landlocked country surrounded by stunning mountains, Armenia is home to a variety of natural wonders that will delight alike nature lovers and those willing to escape the hustle and bustle of their cities. Whether you are looking for a scenic drive through the country’s national parks, a hike through its breathtaking canyons or a relaxing stay at its most beautiful lake, you will be in awe of these magnificent spots.
One of the best-known natural wonders in Armenia is Gnishik Canyon. It is a place where you will find a combination of breathtaking scenery and endemic species that have only ever been found in this valley.
In addition to Gnishik, there are many other must-see places in Armenia that will delight the senses of your entire family. For instance, Jermuk is a popular tourist destination that includes not only a lovely town centre but also a mountain waterfall and nearby geysers.
Another great place to visit is Noratus, a village that is only a 1.5 hour drive away from Yerevan and known for its cemetery, which is full of khachkars, carved stones representing Medieval Christian Armenian art. They are a unique part of Armenian culture and are often included in a tour.
2. Dilijan Town
A town of a million people, Dilijan is a perfect example of what makes Armenia so special. It's beautifully laid out with excellent transportation options, a vibrant nightlife, good restaurants and friendly people.
The city is also a popular destination for hiking. Since 2017, a lot of investment has gone into developing purpose-built trails, which take hikers through the forested slopes and past isolated monasteries to Parz Lake.
It's a lovely spot to visit all year round, thanks to the weather being surprisingly mild in the mountains. Whether you're hiking or relaxing, you'll never be disappointed by the stunning view from this pristine lake.
Dilijan is also home to the country's best-known natural wonder – Haghartsin Monastery, an iconic example of medieval architecture that you should not miss. This monastery is only 15 minutes away from the centre of Dilijan and is surrounded by sheer brick-red cliffs that are sure to make you stop and take it all in.
3. Debed River Canyon
The gorge carved by the Debed River is one of Armenia's best-known natural wonders. Stretching from Vanadzor to the border with Georgia, this area is incredibly beautiful.
It's a region of stunning gorges, medieval monasteries and ancient churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It also has a wealth of hiking trails.
A great way to experience all the canyon has to offer is to book an organized tour. There are a number of options but I would recommend the Enlinking Caucasus Tour from Envoy Tours, which picks you up in Tbilisi and takes you to Haghpat, Sanahin and Akhtala with a traditional lunch and a guide.
You can also visit Debed River Canyon by foot, with the well-maintained Kobayr-Horomayr-Odzun trail being one of the most popular. The hike is a four-hour walk from Kobayr to Horomayr and Odzun, with breathtaking views along the way.
4. Geghard Monastery
Geghard, also known as Ayrivank Monastery, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient complex is located in the Upper Azat Valley, east of Yerevan.
- The monastery is carved into rock and is an illustration of medieval Armenian architecture. There are numerous churches, tombs and cave dwelling cells that were cut into the living rock.
- Among these are the main church Katoghike and two cave churches Avazan and St. Mother of God as well as the tombs of the Proshyan princes.
- Another highlight is the unique khachkars (memorial stele with a cross) cut into the rock surfaces. There are countless of them around Geghard.
- The name of the monastery, Geghard, comes from the spear that was used to pierce Jesus Christ during his Crucifixion and is kept here in the Echmiadzin Treasury. It is believed that the spear was brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus.
