8 Best Places to Visit in Armenia Before You Die

Full of interesting attractions and natural beauty, the best places to visit in Armenia before you die are right here on this list, but we’re sure you’ll be adding more after seeing all there is to offer. Perhaps not the most popular holiday destination, Armenia is a gem of a country providing its visitors with a walk through ancient history through its incredible fortresses, churches and monasteries, most of which are  located in stunning natural scenery.

If it’s mountain scenery and trails to conquer, Armenia will satisfy that craving in a heartbeat. The Lesser Caucasus Mountains are the place to head to. Snowy topped and sprinkled with more buildings of religious interests and ancient antiquity, it’s hard not to fall in love with the surroundings here.

1. Tatev Monastery

An ancient monastery sits perched on mountains in the Syunik province of the country and is a gorgeous way to get a bird’s eye view of the valley and mountain ranges. After traversing through a rock gorge, you will reach the beautiful structure. It was formerly used as a fortress, then housed over 100 monks, and now curious tourists. The road up here isn’t for the faint-hearted! You have an option of a gondola ride up if you want to take the scenic (and less hectic) route.

2. Lesser Caucasus Mountains

Topped with snow and impressed travelers trekking up their vast array of trails, is the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. This impressive range is also dotted with ancient monasteries. Absolutely stunning views, regardless if you stay at the base, or peer out from high above. The Armenian villages sprinkle the plains below, be sure to check out their goods to purchase.

3. Public Square

The square itself is quite impressive with its timeworn British facade and surroundings full of flourishing flowers and magical water fountains. The fountains “sing and dance” for a spectacular display of rhythms, colors, and visuals. It’s certainly worth a visit while strolling the streets of Yerevan.

4. The Monastery of Geghard

Carved out of rock and erected heedfully, the medieval monastery located here is arguably one the most beautiful structures. Surrounded by craggy cliffs and natural beauty, the complex is located in the Ararat Valley, and is thankfully in great condition.

5. Garni

Naturally defended by the Azat River, is the village of Garni, and it houses some of the most popular attractions in the country. The Hellenistic Garni Temple will remind you of  Roman styled structures and features a bathhouse that’s surrounded by an adornment of mosaics. The nearby Mashtots Hayrapet Church is still a stunner despite its ruinous conditions.

6. The Cascade

Greenery, architecture, culture, and modernity. That’s what’s encompassed in this one attraction. In central Yerevan you can walk up the summit of this beautiful structure and have a sweeping view of the city below and the majestic Mount Ararat as a backdrop. The staircase that you will walk up is simply intriguing and gorgeous with its detail and modern flair. The outdoors provide you with the incredible greenery and gardens that surround the complex, and the indoors provide an art exhibition to its onlookers.

7. Khor Virap

The monastery located at the foot of the mighty Mount Ararat is surely a spectacle, but more than that, the most visited pilgrimage site of the people of the country. The monastery was built in 642 AD, but has been renovated and expanded on as the years passed. This is definitely a must-see in Armenia.

8. Karahunj Observatory

This is revered as the “Stonehenge of Armenia,” so if you are into precariously planted and placed stones in a magical mountain setting, here’s your spot. This location is about 3,500 years older than Stonehenge though. The ancient site is said to be one of the first man-made structures on earth. There is evidence that the structure was used for astronomical purposes.