The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Armenia
Armenia is waiting for you! Come to experience its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural traditions. Check out our suggestions for discovering Armenia in a week and making the most of your visit to our warm and welcoming country!
Day 1: Discover Yerevan
Your adventure begins in Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Start your day with a guided city tour to explore Yerevan’s major landmarks. Begin at Republic Square, the heart of the city, where you can admire the impressive architecture and the musical fountains that light up at night. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Opera and Ballet Theater, a stunning building surrounded by charming cafes and lush green parks.
Next, head to the Cascade Complex, an enormous stairway adorned with modern sculptures, fountains, and lush gardens. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and Mount Ararat in the distance. For art enthusiasts, the Cafesjian Center for the Arts located within the Cascade is a must-visit.
After a morning of exploration, delve into Armenia’s rich history at the History Museum of Armenia. Located in Republic Square, this museum offers a fascinating journey through Armenia’s past, from prehistoric times to the modern era.
No visit to Yerevan is complete without a shopping stop at the Vernissage Flea Market. Here, you can find unique gifts and souvenirs, including handcrafted jewelry, traditional Armenian carpets, and artwork that will always remind you of your time in Armenia.
Day 2: Garni and Geghard - Symphony of Stones
On your second day, venture outside the city to discover the spiritual and natural wonders of Armenia. Start your journey at Garni Temple, the only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded building in Armenia and the former Soviet Union. This ancient pagan temple, dedicated to the sun god Mihr, offers a glimpse into Armenia’s pre-Christian past.
Just a short drive from Garni lies the Symphony of Stones, a breathtaking natural rock formation in the Azat River Gorge. These towering basalt columns resemble a grand organ, creating a symphony of shapes and textures that is truly awe-inspiring. Take a peaceful walk through the gorge and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the landscape.
Your next stop is the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the cliffs of the Azat Valley. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery, this 4th-century monastery is renowned for its intricate rock-carved churches and the serene atmosphere that makes it a perfect place for reflection.
Before you head to Geghard, make sure to stop in the village of Garni for a taste of freshly baked lavash, Armenia’s traditional flatbread. Served with fresh greens and local cheese, this simple yet delicious meal is a quintessential Armenian experience.
Day 3: Explore the North-East – Lake Sevan and Dilijan
Day three of your Armenian adventure takes you to the northeast, where you’ll discover some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes. Start your day at Lake Sevan, the largest freshwater lake in the Caucasus and one of the highest in the world. Sometimes referred to as the “Blue Pearl of Armenia,” Sevan is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views that will take your breath away.
Visit Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a peninsula overlooking the lake. The monastery’s ancient stone churches, set against the backdrop of the deep blue waters, create a picture-perfect scene that’s sure to impress.
Next, head to the charming town of Dilijan, known for its lush forests, pristine lakes, and scenic mountains. Spend some time exploring Old Dilijan, a quaint area with restored 19th-century houses, craft shops, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss the Sharambeyan Museum, which offers a glimpse into traditional Armenian life.
A short drive from Dilijan, you’ll find the Haghartsin Monastery, nestled in the forested mountains. This 10th-century monastery is a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and the spiritual ambiance of the ancient stone buildings.
For a true taste of the region, try Gata with thyme in Dilijan. These traditional Armenian pastries are filled with sweet or savory fillings and are the perfect accompaniment to a coffee break in the serene surroundings.
Day 4: Religious Visits to Etchmiadzin and Zvartnots
Immerse yourself in Armenia’s deep religious and cultural roots on day four, which takes you to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin your journey at the Holy Mother See of Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The cathedral, one of the oldest in the world, is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture and a symbol of the country’s Christian heritage.
Explore the cathedral’s stunning interior, adorned with intricate frescoes and ancient relics, and visit the Treasury Museum of Etchmiadzin to see a collection of religious artifacts, including the Holy Lance (Geghard) and the relics of Noah’s Ark.
On your way back to Yerevan, stop at the Zvartnots Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 7th century, this ruined cathedral is known for its unique circular design and elaborate stone carvings. Although it was destroyed by an earthquake in the 10th century, the remaining ruins still exude a sense of grandeur and beauty.
Day 5: Must-Sees in Lori – Akhtala, Haghpat, and Sanahin
Day five takes you to the Lori region in northern Armenia, a land of rolling hills, lush forests, and ancient monasteries. Start your day with a visit to the Akhtala Monastery, an impressive fortress-like structure dating back to the 10th century. The interior of the monastery is adorned with vibrant frescoes, some of the best-preserved examples of medieval Armenian art.
Continue your journey to Haghpat and Sanahin Monasteries, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These two monasteries, located close to each other, are outstanding examples of Armenian religious architecture from the medieval period. You can enjoy a scenic hike between the two, offering a peaceful walk through nature with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you wander through the serene courtyards and admire the intricate stone carvings, you'll feel the deep sense of history and spirituality that permeates these ancient sites.
The peaceful atmosphere and the rich history of these monasteries make them a must-visit for anyone interested in Armenia’s cultural heritage.
Day 6: Explore the South – Khor Virap, Areni, and Noravank
On day six, head south to explore some of Armenia’s most iconic landmarks. Begin your day at Khor Virap Monastery, located at the foot of Mount Ararat. This monastery is not only a significant religious site but also offers one of the most breathtaking views in Armenia. The sight of Mount Ararat’s snow-capped peak towering above the monastery is a moment you won’t soon forget.
Next, visit the village of Areni, renowned for its rich winemaking tradition and indigenous grape varieties like Sev Areni. Enjoy a wine tasting experience and savor the unique flavors of this ancient wine-producing region. Afterward, explore the nearby Areni-1 Cave, one of Armenia’s most important archaeological sites. This cave is where the world’s oldest known winery, dating back over 6,000 years, and the oldest leather shoe, over 5,500 years old, were discovered, offering a fascinating glimpse into Armenia’s ancient past..
Continue your journey to Noravank Monastery, nestled in a narrow gorge surrounded by towering red cliffs. This 13th-century monastery is renowned for its stunning architecture and dramatic setting, making it a popular spot for photographers. Spend some time exploring the monastery and taking in the spectacular views before heading to the charming town of Goris, where you’ll spend the night. Goris is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring, with its picturesque streets and beautiful mountain scenery.
Day 7: Visit Tatev – The Gem of Syunik Region
Your final day in Armenia is dedicated to one of the country’s most renowned landmarks: Tatev Monastery. Perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Vorotan River Gorge, Tatev is not only an architectural marvel but also a place of stunning natural beauty. To reach the monastery, take the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible cable car. The ride offers breathtaking views of the gorge and the surrounding mountains, making it an unforgettable experience.
Once at Tatev village, explore the 9th-century monastery, which played a significant role in Armenia’s spiritual and educational history. Take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and the panoramic views before heading back toward Yerevan.
If you’re visiting on a Sunday, consider participating in the liturgy at Tatev Monastery to experience the spiritual power of this magnificent location at its best.
On your way back, make a stop at the Shaki Waterfall, a picturesque cascade surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the rushing water and the serene environment make it a perfect spot to relax and reflect on your journey through Armenia.
Conclusion: Not a Goodbye, but See You Soon
As your 7-day journey through Armenia comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had – from the bustling streets of Yerevan to the serene monasteries and breathtaking landscapes. But don’t say goodbye just yet! Armenia has much more to offer than you can cover in a single week. We hope you’ll return to explore even more of this hidden gem in the Caucasus. Until then, we’ll be here, ready to welcome you back to #TheHiddenTrack.
Published on October 18, 2024