Once you put your feet on the land where a magical flow of positive energy captures all of your senses, congratulations, you’re in Armenia! A country of amazing hotspots, historical travel highlights, delicious food, and hospitable people. Let’s explore this beautiful country. 

The Temple of Garni

No matter how many days you’re staying in Armenia, you should visit the Temple of Garni. It’s the only remnant of pre-Christian Armenia, that served a summer residence for Armenian kings. It’s a pagan temple of Hellenistic style, and features twenty-four columns that symbolize twenty-four hours a day. King Trdat (Tiridates) built this temple in the 1st century CE, which was dedicated to Mihr, the sun god of pagan Armenians. After Christianity had become a state religion of Armenia in 301 CE, all pagan temples were eliminated, excluding the Temple of Garni, which is now one of the most visited places. Once you’re in Garni, feel the taste of Armenia by visiting one of the restaurants nearby (Yot Kar, for example) where you’ll meet local people and enjoy the high-level of hospitability.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is an iconic sightseeing monastery, carved into the natural rock. It’s very near to Garni, so they are considered itinerary twins (all the tours include Garni and Geghard together in one destination). Geghard Monastery is under UNESCO protection, only thirty minutes ride from Yerevan (the capital of Armenia). Geghard means ‘lance’ considering the spear with which Jesus Christ’s side was pierced by a Roman soldier, as Geghard Monastery was the actual repository of the above-mentioned lance for centuries. Geghard is also famous for its spring, believed to have healing properties.

The Cathedral of Etchmiadzin

The Cathedral of Etchmiadzin is also included in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List. A residence for the Armenian Apostolic Church, Etchmiadzin is a pilgrimage site for the faithful people. Here you’ll see tourists who have visited to admire stunning churches. Etchmiadzin means “the Descent of the Only-Begotten”. If you’re in Etchmiadzin, also visit a museum, where the Holy Spear and a piece of Noah’s Ark are showcased. You can also stop by three other churches this amazing city offers - St. Hripsime, St. Gayane, and St. Shoghakat.

Khor Virap Monastery

Khor Virap, which is literally translated as ‘dip pit’, offers picturesque scenery to those who have come to this historical site. In the ancient times, Saint Gregory the Illuminated, the first man spreading Christianity among Armenians, was captured and imprisoned by King Trdat (Tiridates) III in a deep hole under the basement of Khor Virap. When the king fell seriously ill, Gregory the Illuminator healed him and got released. After this incident, the king became a Christian and made Armenia the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 CE.

Tatev Monastery

Tatev Monastery is another breathtaking spot for those who yearn for adventures. It’s located on a high cliff, overlooking the gorge of Vorotan river. There are many reasons to visit this magical place. First and foremost, you’ll encounter the longest non-stop double-track cable car in the world, the Wings of Tatev, which is also under the UNESCO protection. Then you’ll have the opportunity to hike for 2.5-3 hours to reach Tatev Monastery (or you can drive as well). You can also explore Swinging Bridge in Khndzoresk village, cave dwellings, and other wonderful places of interest this region offers.  

Noravank Monastery

Once you drive through a narrow canyon among red rocks, you can see majestic Noravank Monastery perched on the top of a high cliff. Build in the 13th century, this monastery complex includes several buildings. The first is Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God), the second is Surb Karapet featuring two chambers, and the third is Surb Grigor Chapel.

You can admire beautiful geometrical carvings on the outside walls of Noravank. But the most famous thing about this monastery is its narrow ladders right on the front part. They’re difficult to climb up and down, so be on the safe side and don’t even try.

Transportation Tips: How to Get Around?

If you want to have flexibility while exploring Armenia, the best option is renting a car. If you’re only staying in Yerevan, public transport is a good variant, though, not operating during night hours. 

If you want to dive deeper into the Armenian history, it’s better to take tours, accompanied by a professional guide. There are many travel agencies, like professional Arara Tour Agency, mainly located in the center of Yerevan.

Best Time to Travel to Armenia

The most pleasant temperatures are during April and May in spring, and September and October in autumn. You’ll encounter fewer tourists during these months as well. 

Bottom Line 

Take this destination seriously if you want to breath some fresh air, admire the beauty of pivotal monasteries and stunning nature, feel the exquisite taste of Armenian dishes and explore one of the ancient civilizations in the world! 

ATTENTION! There is a great risk that you will fall hopelessly in love with this country and want to visit it again and again. My big thanks to Arara Tour Agency for organizing luxury tours in Armenia and beyond!