Armenia may be a small country, but it is full of diversity that attracts travels of different interests. From the crowded streets of Yerevan that has its charming rhythm of life to the shores of Lake Sevan, and from the cultural capital Gyumri to the most southern Meghri town, each region offers its own unique charm and attractions. To fully appreciate the richness of Armenia, one should allocate time to explore its various facets.
Exploring Yerevan
Yerevan being a city with over a million people deserves at least a few days of exploration. The attractions can vary from ancient sites to soviet era quarters with their brutal soviet architecture. The city is rather small and its fairly easy to navigate and getting from one to another point of interest is not a problem. One may wander through the historic streets of the city center, walk up the stairs of the Cascade complex to enjoy the Yerevan view with majestic Ararat in the background.
The vibrant atmosphere of the local markets and their prices that always leave the visitors with only positive memories. Yerevan's museums, galleries, and restaurants with their organized masterclasses of local foods offer endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.
The vibrant atmosphere of the local markets and their prices that always leave the visitors with only positive memories. Yerevan's museums, galleries, and restaurants with their organized masterclasses of local foods offer endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.
Discovering Gyumri
The culture heart of Armenia – Gyumri, is located to the north from Yerevan. It is a rather small city and easily reachable by train. There are 3 departures daily that last about 3 hours and the fastest train takes 2 hours to get there. The ticket in average costs about 2 EUR. This option of course is convenient if you are traveling from Yerevan. Gyumri has also its small airport with regular Moscow-Gyumri flights.
The city endured severe repercussions following the Spitak earthquake in the late 1980s. However, thanks to the resilience of its inhabitants, its original architectural features have been meticulously restored during last 5 years and the works are still ongoing.
Gyumri has been a home to Armenia's most gifted artists, athletes, and musicians over the years. Additionally, the city is renowned as the epicenter of Armenian comedy, owing to the locals' unique sense of humor. Located just two hours away from Yerevan, Gyumri captivates visitors with its warm hospitality, stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and its landmarks.
The city endured severe repercussions following the Spitak earthquake in the late 1980s. However, thanks to the resilience of its inhabitants, its original architectural features have been meticulously restored during last 5 years and the works are still ongoing.
Gyumri has been a home to Armenia's most gifted artists, athletes, and musicians over the years. Additionally, the city is renowned as the epicenter of Armenian comedy, owing to the locals' unique sense of humor. Located just two hours away from Yerevan, Gyumri captivates visitors with its warm hospitality, stunning architecture, delectable cuisine, and its landmarks.
Venturing into the Countryside
Beyond the busy city streets, Armenia's countryside beckons with its natural beauty and ancient landmarks. One day is enough for example to spend it exploring the stunning monasteries of Geghard and Garni, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes. Or to have a little journey to the north of the country to the picturesque town of Dilijan, known as Armenia's "Little Switzerland," and lose yourself in its lush forests and tranquil surroundings where a lot of abandoned ancient and medieval sites can be found. Once there you can find monasteries reclaimed by nature forming a beautiful harmony.
One may also allocate a day to tour among the vineyards located south from Yerevan. The tour includes visiting the world’s oldest winery in the cave Areni-1 with wine tasting in the best local wineries. Have a lovely lunch in open air and any activity a wine lover would anticipate.
Since Armenia is not a big country it offers a rather long list of attractions and activities outside Yerevan that can be very much affordable both financially and in the sense of time. However, to discover the surroundings of Yerevan the traveler should have in mind from 3-4 days.
If you pass lays to the south of Armenia to the Iran border we advise you have at least 2 days in mind with spending a night in the town of your choice why not even in the most southern town of Meghri. It’s a rather difficult reach for foreigners that rewards with its majestic views of mountain chains and sharp cliffs. With its local culture and cuisine it is definitely worth exploring. In general the southern Syunik region is rich with ancient sites of abended medieval towns like Old Khot and Old Shinuhair, the Grand Hermitage of Tatev Monastery and so many more.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Armenia offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure. Hikes to the stunning peaks of Mount Aragats or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Geghama Mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Sevan or embark on a thrilling off-road journey to the mystical rock formations of the Garni Gorge. Whatever your interests, Armenia's natural beauty is sure to leave you spellbound.
We do encourage travelers not to hurry to see as much as possible in the shortest time period they have in the country. It is our philosophy that its better to have one experience fully enjoyed than many with shortcuts.
One may also allocate a day to tour among the vineyards located south from Yerevan. The tour includes visiting the world’s oldest winery in the cave Areni-1 with wine tasting in the best local wineries. Have a lovely lunch in open air and any activity a wine lover would anticipate.
Since Armenia is not a big country it offers a rather long list of attractions and activities outside Yerevan that can be very much affordable both financially and in the sense of time. However, to discover the surroundings of Yerevan the traveler should have in mind from 3-4 days.
If you pass lays to the south of Armenia to the Iran border we advise you have at least 2 days in mind with spending a night in the town of your choice why not even in the most southern town of Meghri. It’s a rather difficult reach for foreigners that rewards with its majestic views of mountain chains and sharp cliffs. With its local culture and cuisine it is definitely worth exploring. In general the southern Syunik region is rich with ancient sites of abended medieval towns like Old Khot and Old Shinuhair, the Grand Hermitage of Tatev Monastery and so many more.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Armenia offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure. Hikes to the stunning peaks of Mount Aragats or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Geghama Mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Sevan or embark on a thrilling off-road journey to the mystical rock formations of the Garni Gorge. Whatever your interests, Armenia's natural beauty is sure to leave you spellbound.
We do encourage travelers not to hurry to see as much as possible in the shortest time period they have in the country. It is our philosophy that its better to have one experience fully enjoyed than many with shortcuts.
Considering Your Timeline
Ultimately, the ideal duration of your trip to Armenia depends on your interests, preferences, and available time. While some travelers may be content with a whirlwind tour of the country's highlights in a few days, others may prefer to take a more leisurely approach, immersing themselves in the culture and pace of Armenian life over the course of a week or more.
So, how many days do you need to travel in Armenia? The answer ultimately lies in the depth of experience you seek. Whether you have a few days or a couple of weeks to spare, Armenia offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, discovery, and adventure. So pack your bags, embark on your Armenian adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by this land of ancient wonders and timeless beauty.
So, how many days do you need to travel in Armenia? The answer ultimately lies in the depth of experience you seek. Whether you have a few days or a couple of weeks to spare, Armenia offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, discovery, and adventure. So pack your bags, embark on your Armenian adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by this land of ancient wonders and timeless beauty.