Things to Do in Armenia

Visitors to Yerevan will find unencumbered views of both the city’s center and Mount Ararat from the steps of this iconic structure, which was completed in 1980. The complex is home to multiple staircases, escalators, fountains and gardens that make it one of Yerevan’s most unique landmarks. It is also home to the Cafesjian Museum of Art and a gathering place for senior citizens, families and locals looking to unwind. Travelers can climb the stairs to check out sweeping landscapes, relax in one of the picturesque gardens, spend some time combing through the galleries of the impressive art museum or wander around the outdoor sculptures that decorate this destination.

Tsaghkadzor is a popular resort town in the center of Armenia, about an hour outside of the capital of Yerevan. Founded in the 3rd century, Tsaghkadzor derives its name from the Armenian word for “valley of flowers.” Located on the southeastern slope of Mount Teghenis, Tsaghkadzor developed as a major spa town during Soviet times and was home to the Olympic Sports Complex, opened in 1967 to train Soviet athletes for the Olympic Games. After Armenia gained its independence in the 1990s, it was redeveloped into a winter resort town centered around its ski resort. 

Tsaghkadzor’s ski resort was fully modernized in the mid-2000s and features a series of four chair lifts known as the Tsaghkadzor Ropeway that take skiers and snowboarders to the top of Mount Teghenis in 40 minutes.

Beyond the resort, Tsaghkadzor is home to the Senator Royale Casino, one of the largest entertainment complexes in the country, as well as the Kecharis Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Eastern Armenia. Founded in the early 11th century, it was reconstructed in 2001. Visitors may also enjoy the House-Museum of the Brothers Orbeli, a museum dedicated to Ruben, Joseph and Levon Orbeli, three prominent Armenian scientists.

Republic Square, located in the heart of Yerevan, is a popular meeting spot for first dates and an even more popular destination for couples that are tying the knot. The iconic seven fountains, located in the center of the square, is part of an age-old Armenian wedding tradition that includes circling the square three times for love and good luck. Travelers who happen upon this classic square on busy weekends will likely see well-dressed couples taking part in this right of passage.

The park was designed by Alexander Tamayan and includes a sprawling mosaic rock “carpet”. Like other major cities, this square has become a gathering spot for locals and travelers who want to unwind outside as the sun sets or the day begins.

This world-class museum is home to one of the largest—and most impressive—collections of ancient manuscripts on earth. They cover a wide-range of topics, including history, medicine, literature and philosophy.

In addition to a museum, where travelers can learn about the history of the Armenian alphabet, examine parchments and copies of the first printed books, Matenadaran is home to one of the most important scientific research centers in the country.

This expansive complex, which was completed I 1967, was built to honor the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, this hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.

Upon entering Tsisernakaberd, visitors are confronted with a massive stone engraved with the names of cities across Armenia and the number of people who were killed by the Turks in each one. It proves a somber reminder of the nation’s loss and ushers travelers into the three buildings the complex holds: the Sanctuary of Eternity, Memorial Wall and Memorial Column. Visitors say this museum and landmark is a stark but beautiful reminder of the nation’s history and worthy of checking out.