Armenia is a small country with a big heart and a warm welcome. It is a place where people take pride in their culture and traditions, and where children are loved and adored. From ancient monasteries and historic landmarks to modern museums and exciting outdoor activities, Armenia offers something for everyone. But the question is, how child-friendly is Armenia?
The answer is simple: Armenia is an excellent destination for families with children of all ages. With a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for kids, it is a great place for both learning and entertainment. Here are some of the reasons why:
Safe and Friendly Environment
Armenia is a hidden gem in the Caucasus region, a country that is often overlooked by tourists. But, for those who do make the trek to this beautiful country, they are pleasantly surprised by the welcoming and hospitable locals, the low crime rate, and the appreciation for children.
Many families may be hesitant to travel to a new country, especially with children in tow. But Armenia provides a safe and secure environment for families to explore and experience a new culture. The people of Armenia are warm and friendly, always willing to lend a hand or share a smile. Locals are eager to show visitors their rich history and unique traditions, making tourists feel at home.
Many families may be hesitant to travel to a new country, especially with children in tow. But Armenia provides a safe and secure environment for families to explore and experience a new culture. The people of Armenia are warm and friendly, always willing to lend a hand or share a smile. Locals are eager to show visitors their rich history and unique traditions, making tourists feel at home.
Outdoor Activities
Armenia offers many outdoor activities that are perfect for families with children. From hiking in the mountains and horseback riding to skiing and snowboarding, there is something for everyone.
One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Armenia is by hiking. Armenia has a diverse landscape that ranges from high mountains to lush forests, which makes it an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. Hiking is also a great way to connect with nature and bond with your family. You can choose from a variety of hiking trails, depending on your level of fitness and the age of your children. Some of the popular hiking trails in Armenia include Mount Aragats, Dilijan National Park, and Khosrov Forest State Reserve.
If you are looking for a unique outdoor experience, then horseback riding is another option to consider. Horseback riding in Armenia is a popular activity, and there are many tour operators that offer guided horseback riding tours. The tours can last from a few hours to several days, depending on your preference. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the countryside and enjoy the fresh air.
For families who love winter sports, skiing and snowboarding are available from December to April. Armenia has several ski resorts, and the most popular ones are Tsaghkadzor and Jermuk. Skiing and snowboarding are great family activities that promote teamwork, and there are slopes for all skill levels.
Besides these activities, there are also many natural parks that families can explore. Lake Sevan is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and offers many outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. Dilijan National Park is another popular destination for families, with its dense forests, hiking trails, and scenic waterfalls.
One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Armenia is by hiking. Armenia has a diverse landscape that ranges from high mountains to lush forests, which makes it an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. Hiking is also a great way to connect with nature and bond with your family. You can choose from a variety of hiking trails, depending on your level of fitness and the age of your children. Some of the popular hiking trails in Armenia include Mount Aragats, Dilijan National Park, and Khosrov Forest State Reserve.
If you are looking for a unique outdoor experience, then horseback riding is another option to consider. Horseback riding in Armenia is a popular activity, and there are many tour operators that offer guided horseback riding tours. The tours can last from a few hours to several days, depending on your preference. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the countryside and enjoy the fresh air.
For families who love winter sports, skiing and snowboarding are available from December to April. Armenia has several ski resorts, and the most popular ones are Tsaghkadzor and Jermuk. Skiing and snowboarding are great family activities that promote teamwork, and there are slopes for all skill levels.
Besides these activities, there are also many natural parks that families can explore. Lake Sevan is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and offers many outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. Dilijan National Park is another popular destination for families, with its dense forests, hiking trails, and scenic waterfalls.
Educational and Cultural Activities
When people think of Armenia, they often think of its history, landscapes, and ancient landmarks. However, Armenia is also home to a wide array of unique educational and cultural activities that families can explore and enjoy together. Here are just a few options to consider:
Visit Museums and Art Galleries. Armenia is home to a wealth of museums and galleries that showcase the country's artistic and cultural heritage. The National Gallery of Armenia is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial provides a sobering but important look at the country's history. Families can also explore the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, which houses an incredible collection of illuminated manuscripts, maps, and historical documents.
Attend a Traditional Dance or Music Performance. Traditional Armenian dance and music have a long and rich history. Families can attend performances at venues like the Armenian National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet or the Yerevan Chamber Music Hall to experience the beauty and power of these art forms.
Participate in Hands-On Workshops. Many cultural organizations and community centers in Armenia offer hands-on workshops and classes that allow families to learn traditional crafts and skills. These might include pottery-making, carpet-weaving, or cooking traditional Armenian dishes. These workshops provide a unique way to learn more about Armenian culture and history.
Take a Guided Tour. Guided tours can be a great way to explore some of Armenia's most important landmarks and cultural sites. Families can choose from a variety of options, including walking tours of cities like Yerevan or bus tours of ancient monasteries and landmarks like Garni Temple or Tatev Monastery.
Armenia offers a wealth of educational and cultural activities that families can explore and enjoy together.
Visit Museums and Art Galleries. Armenia is home to a wealth of museums and galleries that showcase the country's artistic and cultural heritage. The National Gallery of Armenia is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial provides a sobering but important look at the country's history. Families can also explore the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, which houses an incredible collection of illuminated manuscripts, maps, and historical documents.
Attend a Traditional Dance or Music Performance. Traditional Armenian dance and music have a long and rich history. Families can attend performances at venues like the Armenian National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet or the Yerevan Chamber Music Hall to experience the beauty and power of these art forms.
Participate in Hands-On Workshops. Many cultural organizations and community centers in Armenia offer hands-on workshops and classes that allow families to learn traditional crafts and skills. These might include pottery-making, carpet-weaving, or cooking traditional Armenian dishes. These workshops provide a unique way to learn more about Armenian culture and history.
Take a Guided Tour. Guided tours can be a great way to explore some of Armenia's most important landmarks and cultural sites. Families can choose from a variety of options, including walking tours of cities like Yerevan or bus tours of ancient monasteries and landmarks like Garni Temple or Tatev Monastery.
Armenia offers a wealth of educational and cultural activities that families can explore and enjoy together.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
The wide range of family-friendly accommodations, from hotels and guesthouses to apartments and vacation rentals are another plus in this context. Many of these accommodations offer children's activities, such as playgrounds and games rooms, making them perfect for families.
Delicious Cuisine
Armenia's cuisine is rich in flavors and textures, often featuring meat, dairy, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Many dishes are made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, making them healthy and flavorful. Children in Armenia often grow up eating traditional dishes at home and at school. You can easily adjust to your needs and preferences our Culinary Masterclasses which your kids can enjoy completely free with us.
Armenian desserts are also quite popular, and many of them are child-friendly. For example, gata is a sweet bread that is usually flavored with cinnamon and is similar to a heavy breakfast pastry.
Overall, Armenian cuisine can be very child-friendly. The dishes are flavorful and healthy, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. The variety of food in Armenia makes it easy for children to try new things and expand their culinary horizons.
Armenian desserts are also quite popular, and many of them are child-friendly. For example, gata is a sweet bread that is usually flavored with cinnamon and is similar to a heavy breakfast pastry.
Overall, Armenian cuisine can be very child-friendly. The dishes are flavorful and healthy, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. The variety of food in Armenia makes it easy for children to try new things and expand their culinary horizons.
Personal Thoughs
Many time we have come across posts in Linkedin, Facebook etc. mostly by digital nomads stating that Armenia is one of the most child friendly countries in the world. Moreover, we have experienced it when traveling to Armenia, from the moment the plane would land and the passengers would let us go forward only because we are with a kid. Almost all the restaurants we were in Yerevan had child seats and the waiter would offer child friendly food. In the street people would always smile to the small ones, especially the infants. If you are visiting tourist sites with you family and your tour operator arranged a private transportation for you, the driver will always park and wait if the kid needs to be changed or have a nap, will always help with stroller and would never bother if you are late from the schedule. The respect to the children here is in the culture of the people and that is something we are very much proud of and appreciate.
In conclusion, Armenia is an excellent destination for families with children. With its safe and friendly environment, outdoor activities, educational and cultural activities, family-friendly accommodations, and delicious cuisine, it is a must-visit for families looking for a unique and memorable vacation.