Things to do in  Armenia

This giant, multi-tiered staircase is one of Yerevan’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s a popular spot for people-watching or to climb the 572 steps to the top—on clear days, views stretch all the way to snow-capped Mt. Ararat. The Yerevan Cascade is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, an Armenian art museum and sculpture garden with free admission.

Bustling Republic Square is in the heart of downtown Yerevan. It’s surrounded by neoclassical buildings, including the History Museum of Armenia and the National Gallery of Armenia. A popular gathering spot, the square serves as a literal watering hole: It’s home to the Singing Fountains, which play music and perform a colorful light show every night in summer.

Home to one of the world’s largest collections of manuscripts, Matenadaran name (Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts) is both a museum and a research institution. It boasts thousands of old printed books, illuminated manuscripts, and other rare documents, plus an online database. The museum is one of Yerevan’s top attractions for tourists and scholars alike.

Located on the slopes of Mt. Teghenis in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, this armchair ropeway leads you to a summit overlooking the rolling hills of northern Armenia. Standing at more than 2,800 meters (9,200 feet), on clear days the summit gives you a glimpse of Mt. Ararat, the snow-capped mountain that’s the symbol of Armenia.

Located on a hill overlooking Yerevan, the Armenian Genocide Museum and adjoining Tsisernakaberd Memorial pay tribute to the 1.5 million Armenians killed during the Armenian Genocide under the Ottoman Empire. Entrance is free since the goal is to spread awareness of a genocide still denied by some governments. The expansive complex is a popular—and poignant—stop for Armenians and visitors alike.

The global brand, served in more than 50 countries worldwide, started in Armenia at the end of the 19th century. With its vintage lettering visible from many parts of downtown Yerevan, this historic brandy factory is a bonafide landmark and represents a piece of the city’s history. Come to the Ararat Museum to see how the iconic liquor is made.

Out of Armenia’s thousands of churches and monasteries, Khor Virap still manages to make a lasting impression. Famous as the site where St. Gregory the Illuminator—founder of the Armenian Apostolic Church—was once imprisoned, the monastery is still best known for its stunning scenery, with views of snowcapped Mt. Ararat rising in the background.

Built back in the first century, Garni Temple was spared the destruction of every other pagan site of worship when Armenia adopted Christianity and remains intact, prettily perched above a gorge. Visitors to the Greco-Roman temple are treated to an impressive panorama overlooking the Azar River and Gegham Mountains.

Nestled on the edge of a scenic gorge overlooking the Vorotan River, this 10th-century monastery complex is one of Armenia’s most dramatic sights. Tatev was home to a medieval university for two centuries, one of the most renowned in Armenia. Today, the monastery is still in active use. Despite the hours-long travel time from Yerevan, Tatev draws crowds.

Armenia isn’t light on religious buildings in spectacular settings, yet Geghard Monastery still finds a way to stand out. Surrounded by rocky peaks and perched in a valley over the Azat river gorge, the monastery is an awe-inspiring sight. The complex’s chapels and tombs have been carved from the cliffs that loom over them, making for one of Armenia’s most unique architectural experiences.

Alternatively known as the “Vatican of Armenia” and the “Mother Cathedral of Armenia”, the ancient Etchmiadzin Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the world—if not the oldest. Constructed in the fourth century, it dates back to shortly after Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity. Today, it remains one of the country’s most important Christian landmarks.

A misty oasis in the arid landscape of southern Armenia, this roaring cascade is a favorite among locals. Legend has it that women from a nearby town (including a woman named Shaki) would hide under the foamy surface of the falls to escape enemy invaders. Tucked away among the trees near the town of Sisian, Shaki Waterfall can be difficult to reach, but it’s often included on guided excursions.

What is now ruins was once a cathedral built in the seventh century. Destroyed a few centuries later, it lay undiscovered outside Yerevan near Etchmiadzin Cathedral for almost a millennium. The now partially restored ruins are one of Armenia’s most beautiful landmarks. On clear days, you can admire views of snow-capped Mt. Ararat.

Established back in Soviet times in 1935, this botanical garden still offers a quiet refuge from Yerevan’s hustle and bustle. Part of the Armenian Academy of Sciences, it boasts a wide-ranging collection of trees, medicinal species, and other plants from all over Armenia and the former USSR. On clear days, the garden also has views of distant Mount Ararat.

Contrary to its romantic name, Yerevan’s Lovers' Park is popular with couples, families, friends, and individuals. Pathways, ponds, and beautifully manicured flowers provide an ideal setting for leisurely strolls and picnics. In addition to serving as one of locals’ favorite parks, it also acts as a venue for local events.