Armenia is one of the most fascinating, yet too often overlooked tourist destinations. Visit it this year and secure a trip to the land caught between the Black Sea and the Caspian Lake.
The oldest Christian country in the world, with the mighty Caucasus Mountains and remote villages and thousands of monasteries, enchants at first sight. It borders Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east and Iran to the south. In the west, only the border separates it from Turkey, with which it shares a sad history. While exploring this fascinating land, the mighty Caucasus accompanies you at every step, and in the capital Yerevan you can admire famous works of art or enjoy a glass of famous cognac. Take the route of numerous monasteries, among them the most famous Noravank, which rises above the red cliffs, and visit the second highest lying lake in the world.
When to Armenia?
The best season to visit Armenia is in late May and early June, just before the worst of the heat descends. This time is perfect for hiking as the temperatures are pleasant and the weather is dry.
Photo: Unsplash/Setu ChhayaWhat should I see in Armenia?
Start in the capital Yerevan, which is older than ancient Rome and recently celebrated its 2800th birthday. Yes, you heard that right. Despite its venerable age, you will look in vain for outdated buildings, because nowadays the Armenian capital is a modern and lively city that attracts with its good energy. Due to the pink colored volcanic dust with which the buildings were built, Ervana got the name "Pink City".
Alexander Tumanyan, who carefully planned the city center and thoroughly renovated it in the last century, led the capital into a new era. Visit the Republic Square and listen to the musical fountain or visit Tsitsernakaberd, which testifies to the bitter history of the Armenian nation.
Photo: Unsplash/Simon SunYerevan is a great starting point, as you get the first impression of what awaits you, although you can hardly imagine the unspoiled nature of Transcaucasia and the series of interesting monasteries. It is one of the most beautiful Armenian sights Lake Sevan, the largest lake in the Caucasus Mountains, located 1,899 meters above sea level. The lake, which is famous as the second highest lying lake in the world, is part of a protected national park and represents as much as 3 percent of the country's surface.
You can enjoy unspoilt nature and a multitude of animal and plant species. You can also visit the Noratus cemetery, which dates back to medieval times. Each of the monuments tells the story of the deceased, as only these are carved in stone. Near the lake you can also find a bunch of monasteries, such as Hayravank and Sevanavank.
Photo: Unsplash/Anton NazaretianThere is really no shortage of monasteries in Armenia. Don't miss the 4th-century Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many churches and tombs are carved in stone, which is the most beautiful picture of Armenian medieval architecture. Due to the many relics, it is also a popular place for pilgrims. It is located in the embrace of mighty cliffs, and you climb to it through a gorge. Not far from the Georgian border you can find a monastery Haghpat, which was built between the 10th and 13th centuries and played an important religious, spiritual, educational and cultural role in the Middle Ages. This is also under UNESCO protection, and because of the location itself, it offers beautiful views of the Debed River.
Among the monasteries, the most well-known one, called Khor Virap, should not be missed. It is located not far from the border with Turkey, and with Mount Ararat in the background, the view is truly magnificent. Nature lovers should also visit Dilijan National Park, which was given the name "Armenian Switzerland" because of its similarity. Of course, it is worth visiting other major cities in Armenia, not only the capital Yerevan. Gyumri is the second largest city in the country, and was heavily damaged in the 1988 earthquake. Before that, the city was considered the most beautiful in Armenia, and even today remnants of its former glory can be seen, either in the black volcanic dust on the buildings or in the central square. Here you can also find a series of Soviet monuments, churches, museums, even a bazaar.
Photo: Unsplash/Daria KurennayaHow to explore Armenia?
Sights in the main cities are easily accessible by public transport, while those outside are only accessible by organized tours or by renting a car. Due to the strategic location of Yerevan, you can choose the capital city as your starting point and embark on several one-day trips.
How much is a plane ticket to Armenia?
You can fly from Vienna to Yerevan for as little as 68 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Setu ChhayaCovid-19 restrictions in Armenia
Upon entering Armenia, you must present a vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result, which must not be older than 72 hours. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Armenia
Areve Residence Boutique Hotel
Arève Résidence Boutique Hotel is located a few kilometers from the city center, less than two kilometers from the city university. It is suitable for both business and holiday visits, as it provides a good starting point for discovering the rest of the country. Tastefully furnished rooms with bathrobes and slippers make you feel at home. In the mornings, the hotel spoils you with a delicious breakfast.
Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan
Just a short walk away from the city's main attractions is a small luxury hotel, with a private fitness center and a rooftop bar with a great view of the city. Luxuriously furnished rooms with marble bathrooms and a balcony pamper you in their luxury, and the finishing touch is a continental breakfast in the morning.
