18 Best Places to Visit in Armenia: You Shouldn’t Miss
Let me tell you — Armenia is one of those countries that totally sneaks up on you and steals your heart before you even know it.
Tucked between Europe and Asia, this small but mighty country is packed with jaw-dropping mountains, ancient monasteries carved into cliffs, kind-hearted locals, and apricots sweeter than anywhere else I’ve tasted.
As a digital nomad who loves exploring hidden gems, Armenia was a dream. The landscapes? Breathtaking. The history? Deep and powerful. And the vibe? Totally unforgettable.
Whether you’re into hiking, photography, culture, or just slow travel with soul, here are 18 amazing places to visit in Armenia that completely blew me away.
1. Yerevan
Let’s start with Armenia’s capital — the vibrant and historic Yerevan. This pink-toned city (thanks to the local volcanic tuff stone used in many buildings) is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. But it feels super modern and full of energy!
You’ll find trendy cafés, art galleries, rooftop bars, and friendly locals who love to talk about their culture. Don’t miss Republic Square at night — the fountains light up with music, and it feels like a party.
Climb the Cascades for city views and explore the Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Yerevan is the perfect base to explore the country, and you’ll want to stay longer than planned.
2. Geghard Monastery
Tucked into a canyon and partially carved into solid rock, Geghard Monastery is one of Armenia’s most surreal and spiritual places. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by towering cliffs and holds deep religious significance — it was once said to house the spear that pierced Jesus.
The acoustics inside are hauntingly beautiful, and the carvings in the rock halls are unbelievably detailed. When I visited, a local choir started singing, and the sound just floated through the stone. I had goosebumps. The drive from Yerevan is about an hour and is scenic the whole way. Trust me, you’ll feel the sacred energy as soon as you arrive.
3. Garni Temple
Just a short drive from Geghard is Garni Temple, the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in the post-Soviet space. Yup — a Roman-style temple in the Armenian highlands! It’s perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Azat River gorge, and the views are chef’s kiss.
Built in the 1st century, it’s dedicated to the sun god Mihr, and though it was reconstructed after an earthquake, it still feels ancient and magical.
Around the temple, you’ll find ruins of a royal bathhouse with mosaic floors and an old church. It’s a great day trip from Yerevan and the combo of Garni and Geghard is simply perfect.
4. Lake Sevan
Lake Sevan is the jewel of Armenia — a massive freshwater lake that looks like the sea! Sitting at 1,900 meters above sea level, it’s one of the highest alpine lakes in the world and offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
You can swim, sunbathe, eat fresh trout, or hike around the hills. The Sevanavank Monastery sits on a peninsula (used to be an island!) and gives you panoramic views over the water.
I spent a full day here just chilling with a book, sipping Armenian coffee, and dipping my toes in the water. It’s especially popular with locals, so it has that friendly weekend vibe.
5. Dilijan
Nicknamed the “Switzerland of Armenia,” Dilijan is a lush forest town in the Tavush Province. If you’re into nature, clean mountain air, and cozy wooden cottages — this is your spot.
It’s home to Dilijan National Park, filled with scenic trails, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient monasteries like Haghartsin and Goshavank. There’s a charming old town street (Sharambeyan Street) where you can see traditional Armenian architecture, artists’ workshops, and sample mountain honey.
It’s peaceful, serene, and honestly one of the best places for digital detoxing. I stayed at a tiny guesthouse run by a local couple, and they treated me like family. Heart officially stolen.
6. Tatev Monastery
Getting to Tatev Monastery is half the adventure — you take the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible cable car, gliding over deep gorges and dramatic cliffs. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by one of the most picturesque monasteries in all of Armenia, perched on the edge of a canyon.
This 9th-century masterpiece was once a major educational and spiritual center. The views alone are worth the trip, but the atmosphere is something else — quiet, majestic, and filled with the sound of wind whistling through the stones. I recommend staying overnight in nearby Halidzor or Goris to fully soak in the area.
7. Noravank Monastery
Surrounded by fiery red cliffs in the Vayots Dzor Province, Noravank looks like it was painted into the landscape. The main church has a stunning two-story design with a narrow stone staircase leading to the upper level — definitely Instagram-worthy, but also deeply spiritual.
The way the afternoon light hits the orange rocks makes it look like the whole place is glowing. It’s a peaceful spot with very few tourists if you go early.
On the way, stop at Areni village for some wine tasting — this region is famous for its vineyards and the Areni-1 cave, which contains the oldest known winery in the world!
8. Khor Virap
For that iconic postcard view of Mount Ararat, head to Khor Virap. This monastery is where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 13 years before Christianity became Armenia’s official religion in 301 AD.
It’s super close to the Turkish border and offers a stunning view of snow-capped Ararat rising above the plains — especially magical at sunrise.
I climbed into the actual dungeon via a ladder and got chills thinking of its history. Even though Mount Ararat is technically in Turkey, it’s still deeply symbolic for Armenians and feels so close you could touch it from here.
9. Goris
Goris is a peaceful town surrounded by green hills and strange rock formations. I used it as a base to explore Tatev, but ended up loving Goris itself.
The architecture here is different — think stone houses with arched windows and pretty gardens. Nearby, you’ll find Old Khndzoresk, a cave village that once housed thousands of people in homes carved into cliffs.
There’s a long suspension bridge that leads you across the gorge — a little shaky, but such a thrill! Goris has a laid-back charm and fewer tourists, making it one of my favorite slow travel stops in Armenia.
10. Amberd Fortress
Sitting 2,300 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Aragats, Amberd Fortress feels like a medieval fairytale. The name means “fortress in the clouds,” and that’s exactly what it feels like.
Built in the 7th century, these ruins offer panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, and in spring, the fields are bursting with wildflowers. I went on a misty afternoon and it looked like a scene from Game of Thrones.
It’s about a 2-hour drive from Yerevan and can easily be combined with a trip to the Aragats mountain area or the Byurakan Observatory.
11. Mount Aragats
Mount Aragats is the highest peak in Armenia and a dream for hikers. It has four summits and offers treks ranging from moderate to challenging.
Even if you’re not into mountaineering, the surrounding landscape is stunning — grassy plains, alpine lakes, and herds of sheep grazing peacefully. I joined a local group for a sunrise hike and reached the southern summit.
It was tough, but watching the sun rise over the clouds was unforgettable. If hiking isn’t your thing, just drive up to Lake Kari, a scenic mountain lake that makes for a great picnic spot with epic views.
12. Haghpat Monastery
Located in northern Armenia near the town of Alaverdi, Haghpat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive monasteries I visited.
It dates back to the 10th century and sits on a hillside overlooking a deep canyon. The stonework here is incredibly detailed — khachkars (carved cross-stones) cover the grounds, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful and mysterious.
There’s a sister monastery nearby called Sanahin, and visiting both in one trip is ideal. The Lori region around here is green and hilly, and perfect for road trips and nature walks.
13. Tsaghkadzor
If you’re visiting in winter or just love mountain towns, Tsaghkadzor is Armenia’s top ski resort. The name means “Valley of Flowers,” and in spring and summer it transforms into a lush hiking and biking haven.
In winter, it becomes a snowy playground with ski slopes, cable cars, and cozy chalets. I stayed in a wood-paneled guesthouse with a roaring fireplace and drank mulled wine under the stars.
There’s also the 11th-century Kecharis Monastery and an alpine-style town square with restaurants and local shops. It’s a popular weekend getaway for Yerevan locals, but still maintains a calm, friendly atmosphere.
14. Gyumri
Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, is full of character. Zorats Karer (Armenian Stonehenge) It has an artsy, soulful energy, with black-and-red volcanic stone buildings, bohemian cafés, and a laid-back pace.
The city has endured earthquakes and Soviet-era hardship, but today it’s a hub for artists, musicians, and filmmakers. The Kumayri Historic District is filled with 19th-century architecture and quirky statues.
I stumbled into an art gallery where local kids were painting giant canvases — it was magical. Gyumri also has some of the best humor and hospitality I encountered. Stay overnight and let the slower rhythm pull you in.
15. Zorats Karer (Armenian Stonehenge)
Way older than Stonehenge, Zorats Karer (also known as Karahunj) is a prehistoric archaeological site made up of massive standing stones. Some are pierced with holes, and researchers believe it may have been an ancient observatory.
It’s located in the Syunik Province and feels deeply mysterious — like stepping into a lost world. I walked among the stones at sunset and felt a quiet awe. Whether you’re into archaeology or just love spiritual places, this site is raw, wild, and wonderful.
16. Jermuk
Famous for its hot springs and healing waters, Jermuk is a spa town nestled in the Vayots Dzor mountains. I stayed at a wellness resort here for two days and felt so rejuvenated. There’s a waterfall right in town, mineral water galleries, and peaceful forest trails.
The climate is cool and refreshing, making it a great escape from Yerevan in summer. It’s also known for the Jermuk brand of bottled water, which you can taste straight from the source!
17. Alaverdi
Alaverdi is a former mining town that’s been turning into a peaceful base for exploring Armenia’s northern monasteries. What I loved most here was the drive itself — you cruise through deep gorges and over old Soviet bridges.
Besides Haghpat and Sanahin, you’ll find quaint villages, river views, and traditional homes. I stayed in a family-run B&B where they served homemade mulberry vodka and baked lavash in their backyard oven. It’s off the beaten path, but that’s what makes it shine.
18. Areni Wine Region
Let’s finish with a toast — because Armenia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and Areni is its wine capital. The vineyards here stretch across rolling hills, and there are family-owned wineries offering tastings of fruity reds and crisp whites.
I recommend visiting Old Bridge Winery or Hin Areni, where you can sip, snack, and learn about the 6,000-year-old winemaking tradition. Don’t forget to try Armenian cheese with your wine — it’s a match made in heaven.
Final Thoughts
Armenia might be small in size, but it’s overflowing with beauty, resilience, and raw authenticity. From ancient monasteries and wild mountains to heartfelt meals and soulful music — this country makes you feel something deep.
I hope this guide inspires you to pack your bag and explore the magic of Armenia. And when you do, take it slow, connect with locals, and let this land show you its layers.
