Armenia may be small, but it has plenty to offer!

02

Garni Temple & Symphony of Stones

As a unique representation of pre-Christian architecture, culture, and beliefs, Garni Temple is a must-see. Dating back to the 1st century AD, the temple is dedicated to the God of the Sun, Mihr (Mithra). It is situated high up a cliff overlooking the ravine of the Azat River and the Gegham Mountains. Drive or hike to the Symphony of Stones, located in the gorge, to blend your cultural visit to Garni with nature.

03

Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

Armenia was the first country in the world to accept Christinaity as a state religion in 301 A.D. Etchmiadzin serves as a cultural, spiritual and holy destination for all Armenians. Etchmiadzin means “the Descent of the only-Begotten'' in Armenian. According to legend, Saint Gregory the Illuminator, the first Christian of all Armenians, had a vision where Jesus Christ descended from heaven and, with his golden hammer, pointed to this location to erect the church.

04

Areni-1 Cave & Vayots Dzor Wine Route

If you love wine, visiting the Vayots Dzor region and stopping at Areni-1 cave is a must. You will get acquainted with the history of the winemaking process in Armenia, which dates back 6,100 years. Areni-1 Cave has been identified as the oldest winery in the world thanks to the discovery of a burial site containing the oldest leather shoe, a wine press, grape seeds, jars, and fermentation vats.You can also visit the local producers in Areni village and taste their wines made from a black, sweet, endemic type of grape known as Areni.

05

Lake Sevan

Add Lake Sevan to your itinerary so you can take in its breathtaking scenery. Because of its size, Lake Sevan was frequently referred to by locals as a sea. Sevan is the largest freshwater high-altitude lake in the area. The lake provides the majority of the fish catch of Armenia. Mountains surround the lake from all sides, which means cold weather in the winter and a lovely breeze on hot summer days.

06

Debed Canyon

Debed Canyon is among Armenia's most attractive areas. The canyon straddles the Debed River on both sides as it flows through the Lori region and stretches for 176 km in length. You can have the most incredible canyon views from the Dsegh, Haghpat, and Sanahin villages. Above Alaverdi city, on the way to Odzun village, is another fantastic location to take in the canyon's grandeur.

07

Amberd Fortress

Amberd is the largest standing fortress in Armenia. Dating back to the 10th century, the fort is located on the slopes of Mount Aragats on a triangular, rocky cliff. The location is chosen on purpose, as it is naturally impregnable. Here, you will have scenic views of Mount Ararat, Mount Aragats, and the small 11th-century Vahramashen church with a river gorge in the background.

08

Zorats Karer Archaeological Site

To see something truly unique, you should visit Zorats Karer archaeological site. It consists of dozens of monoliths standing both alone and in a circular form. Around 80 of the huge stones have well-shaped holes on their edges. Despite the controversy around the site, Zorats Karer is generally recognized as a pre-Christian burial site rather than an ancient observatory or the “Armenian Stonehenge”.

09

Zvartnots Cathedral

Another important must-see site is the 7th-century Zvartnots Cathedral Ruins. Legend has it that at the site of Zvartnots, Armenian King Tiridates first encountered Grigor Lusavorich (Gregory the Illuminator), the first catholicos of the Armenians, before converting to Christianity. This fateful encounter eventually led the king to accept the Christian faith and make it a state religion. About three centuries later, Nerses Catholicos built the majestic Zvartnots Cathedral at the exact same location. Unfortunately, the Cathedral did not survive the severe earthquake in the 10th century.

10

Khor Virap

Take your camera with you when visiting Khor Virap Monastery, as it is one the best spots to capture the stunning scenery of Mount Ararat. Located just 40 min drive away from the capital, this monastery looks down the hill of the ancient Artashat (Artaxiata) city. The name itself translates as “deep dungeon” and is where Grigor Lusavorich was imprisoned for professing the Christian faith.