Short & Sweet: 3 - 4 Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

If you’re looking for a short and sweet itinerary to uncover Armenia’s hidden gems, look no further!

In your short stay, you can explore some of the best of Armenia, from its stunning natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage and mouth-watering cuisine. So, grab your passport, and let’s begin this adventure!

Day 1: Explore the Nearest

Visit the Garni Temple, a stunning pagan temple dating back to the 1st century AD. While in Garni village, be sure to taste the fresh and cold water from the drinking fountains. Also, don’t miss out on trying some traditional Armenian cuisine while you’re in the area - watch locals bake lavash, a delicious flatbread, and enjoy a trout BBQ at one of the local eating places in Garni. Next, head to the Geghard Monastery, one of Armenia's magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Geghard is famous for its unique rock-carved churches and chapels and is a must-visit destination. You will definitely be impressed with the delicate ornamentation on the walls and the red-colored cross-stones decorating the walls of the churches. On your way back to Yerevan, take a short trip to see the iconic Charents Arch, where you can enjoy the majestic views of Mount Ararat.

Tip: The trip to Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, with a stop at the Charents Arch, takes approximately 4-5 hours. If you have an extra hour, stop by the Symphony of Stones near the Garni Temple.

Day 2: Uncover the North

On your second day, venture out to the North of Armenia to explore breathtaking Lake Sevan, the largest lake in the country and the world's second highest-elevation lake with fresh water. To feel the true grandiosity of the Blue Sevan, take a boat ride to Gull’s Island and tour around the peninsula. For a stunning view,visit the Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the lake. Since the drive from Yerevan to Lake Sevan is approximately one hour, you might not get hungry, so we recommend stopping by one of the restaurants near the lake and tasting Fish Gata on your way back to Yerevan. Continue your drive north of Lake Sevan for half an hour, and you will reach Dilijan, a spa town in the mountains covered with dense forests. Visit the Dilijan National Park, home to the Haghartsin and Lake Parz – two of Armenia’s most picturesque spots. While you’re in Dilijan, don’t forget to try Gata with Thyme, a famous local pastry, for a perfect coffee break.

Day 3: Explore the Cradle of Winemaking - Areni

Head to the small village of Areni in the Vayots Dzor region and learn about Armenia’s long-standing wine-making tradition. You should also visit the Areni-1 cave, where the world’s oldest winery was discovered. Finally, a 10-minute drive through the stunning gorge of the region will take you to one of the most magnificent monasteries of medieval Armenia – Noravank. It's especially lovely at sunset, so if you have time, stay a little longer to catch the reddish hues of the monastery and surrounding rocks. You are guaranteed to get some striking images!

If you visit Armenia in October, check the dates for the Areni Wine Festival and plan your trip accordingly.

Day 4: Feel Yerevan

We're sure you'll enjoy a stroll through Yerevan's streets every evening, but seeing the main sights during the day is even better. So, on your last day, spend it in the heart of Yerevan. Take a walking tour of the city's must-see attractions, such as the stunning Cascade Complex, the Opera and Ballet House, Northern Avenue, and the iconic Republic Square. Don’t forget to stroll down Abovyan Street, Saryan Street, and Pushkin Street – just a few of the capital’s most vibrant and lively streets. Before you leave Armenia, drive up to the Mother Armenia statue for a panoramic view of the city, and stop at the Vernissage Flea Market for some souvenir shopping. You can also check Gum Market for food and delicacies to bring home some Armenian flavors.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, you’ll find something to love in Armenia. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore #TheHiddenTrack!