A beginner's guide to Armenia

Nestled on Europe's far eastern edge, Armenia is one of the last destinations on the continent where you can truly escape the crowds. (Imagine Albania from five years ago.)

Steeped in history and culture, this fascinating Caucasian nation is adorned with stunning stone monasteries, many over eight centuries old. Its vibrant capital, Yerevan, boasts a wealth of galleries, performance spaces, and delicious restaurants, all built from tuff volcanic stone. Plus, with its mountainous terrain, there are plenty of hiking opportunities and charming mountain resorts for overnight stays.

The highlight of traveling to Armenia is the chance to engage with the locals. Their enthusiasm and pride for their country are truly captivating, making you feel like part of the Armenian community.

Here’s all the essential information you need before your visit.

When is the best time to visit Armenia?

Summer brings a lively atmosphere to Armenia, though it can get quite hot, with Yerevan's temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F) in July and August. This season features fun festivals like Vardavar, where locals joyfully splash water on each other (and you!), and it’s a perfect time to enjoy Lake Sevan.

To escape the heat, consider visiting in May or June, when Yerevan’s temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 30°C (86°F). Spring is also ideal for hiking through Armenia’s scenic hills and valleys, which burst with wildflowers. (Locals use these flowers to make tea or jewelry.) Fall is another excellent time to go, as crowds are smaller and the weather is usually mild.

The lengthy winter season (November to March) isn't the best time to visit, as many tourist facilities close and temperatures can plummet below freezing. If you're in Armenia during this period, stay in Yerevan, where you can warm up with a glass of wine at cozy spots like In Vino wine bar and Ulikhanyan Jazz Club.

How long should I plan to stay in Armenia?

Many travelers head to Armenia after exploring Georgia – it's an easy journey across the land border to see the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat. If you're pressed for time, consider flying directly into Yerevan’s Zvartnots Airport, which has recently been increasing its flights from Europe and the Middle East.

If time allows, take a week or two to drive around Armenia – the country is a bit smaller than Belgium, making it easy to explore.

Is it easy to navigate Armenia?

Armenia still relies on Soviet-era minibuses known as marshrutky, which can be a bit challenging to use since they lack fixed schedules. Trains connect Yerevan to Batumi in Georgia with several stops, but they're quite slow, making them less ideal unless you have plenty of time.

The most convenient way to explore Armenia is through car or van tours. Numerous operators offer competitive prices around Republic Square in Yerevan.

Yerevan is very pedestrian-friendly, and ride-hailing apps GG and Yandex provide affordable transport options (Uber is not available in Armenia). The city also features modern buses and a single subway line, though you likely won’t need them if you stay in the city center.

If you have the opportunity, the ideal way to explore Armenia is by renting a car from the airport or a local agency in Yerevan. Having your own wheels allows you to stop whenever you like and trek to hidden monasteries. There are also some fantastic budget-friendly campgrounds for road trippers, such as Crossway Camping, where you can sleep in a quirky hippie bus, or Camping 3 Gs, known for its breathtaking views.

Must-see attractions in Armenia

A trip to Armenia will surely include a visit to one of its stunning stone monasteries, as Armenia is the first Christian nation in the world. Some of the best monasteries are just a couple of hours from Yerevan, like Noravank, which glows golden at sunset, and Khor Virap, where Surp Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned before persuading King Tiridates III to adopt Christianity in 301. Most monasteries are situated in canyons or atop mountains; explore them on foot using the local hiking app HIKEArmenia.

Visiting Armenia’s cities is a delight for art and culture enthusiasts. Yerevan is brimming with art galleries showcasing renowned Armenian artists like Sergei Parajanov, a legendary film director, and features impressive venues like the grand National Opera and Ballet Theatre. In Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri, you can stroll past black-tuff stone buildings and explore the Aslamazyan Museum, dedicated to two artist sisters, one of whom is often likened to Armenia’s Frida Kahlo.

Armenia is emerging as a wine hotspot and is home to the world’s oldest winery, located in the Areni-1 Cave. You can taste the unique areni grape wine among the vineyards at Momik Wine Cube.

Alternatively, you can explore the hiking trails. With its wooded paths, Dilijan serves as an excellent mountain base; you can also ascend Mt. Aragats, the tallest peak in Armenia. For those seeking a significant challenge, consider through-hiking the Armenian segment of the remarkable Transcaucasian Trail.

My favorite activity in Armenia

For those who experienced the Soviet era, crumbling brutalist architecture may evoke painful memories of the USSR's downfall. As a Canadian, however, exploring these abandoned Soviet buildings is my favorite pastime in Armenia.

The Children’s Railway in Yerevan is still operational and delightful, as is the pyramid-shaped Cafesjian Center for the Arts (also known as the Cascade), which has been transformed into a stunning art gallery and sculpture garden. Just outside the capital, be sure to check out the telescopes in Byurakan. Tours of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory are occasionally available, and if the guard is in a good mood, you might even visit the abandoned Radio Optical Observatory 54.

What is the budget I need for Armenia?

Armenia uses its own currency, the dram, which can be easily exchanged at currency exchange offices in Yerevan or withdrawn from ATMs with minimal fees. While credit cards are commonly accepted in Yerevan, their usage outside the capital is limited.

Although Armenia is relatively inexpensive compared to European nations, prices are still higher than in many neighboring Central Asian countries. Yerevan is the most expensive city, with several pricey resort areas like Dilijan in the north and along the western shores of Lake Sevan.

For budget travelers, consider a homestay or bed and breakfast – these options not only allow you to connect with locals but often include opportunities to learn how to prepare traditional Armenian dishes like gata (cake).

• Hostel room: Approximately 7500AMD (around US$20)

• Basic double room: Starting at 30,000AMD ($80)

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): Starting at 20,000AMD ($50)

• Public transport ticket: 300AMD ($1)

• Soorch (Armenian coffee): 500–800AMD ($2)

• Lahmajun (Armenian flatbread): 500–1500AMD ($2–3)

• Dinner for two: Around 7500AMD ($20) and up

• Local beer at a bar: 800AMD ($2)

Is it safe to visit Armenia?

Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, tensions with neighboring Azerbaijan have persisted, resulting in several conflicts and ongoing skirmishes along Armenia’s eastern border. In 2023, Azerbaijan took control of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, and talks for a lasting peace agreement are still in progress. Regardless of the outcome, Armenia is generally safe for travelers, but it’s wise to steer clear of the border areas with Azerbaijan.

Is it possible to travel between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye?

Traveling directly by land or air between Armenia and Azerbaijan isn't possible; however, you can connect via a third country such as Georgia. There are flights available to and from Türkiye, but the land border only allows entry for travelers who do not hold Armenian or Turkish passports.

The land borders with Georgia and Iran are accessible, but be sure to thoroughly check visa requirements if you're considering a trip to Iran.

How widely is English spoken in Armenia?

With Armenian and Russian as the main languages, fluent English speakers are uncommon in Armenia. However, there's no need to worry. In Yerevan, you should manage just fine in English, and Armenians are known for their resourcefulness in communicating, often using gestures.

Is it necessary to dress modestly?

Given their Christian Orthodox beliefs, Armenians generally dress more conservatively and reveal less skin compared to Western Europe. However, this is gradually changing, particularly with the arrival of liberal Russians escaping the war in Ukraine. Still, it’s wise to dress respectfully, particularly when visiting a church.