Armenia in 3 Days: Your Complete Guide

Begin your trip in Yerevan, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities (founded in 782 BC). It's known as the "Pink City" thanks to its buildings made of tuff stone. Yerevan is lively, walkable, and full of hidden corners.

Start your morning at Republic Square. Feel the square's spirit, admire the architecture, and visit the History Museum of Armenia.

The History Museum of Armenia and National Gallery, located in the same building, are a great introduction to Armenian identity. The museum showcases artifacts from the Urartian kingdom, medieval manuscripts, and carpets. The gallery features works by great European masters (Rubens, Tintoretto) and famous Armenian painters like Martiros Saryan and Hovhannes Aivazovsky.

Then, walk along Northern Avenue, a street full of shops and cafes. The path will lead you to one of the city's proud landmarks, the National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.

From the Opera, head to the Cascade. This massive architectural complex is an open-air museum where you can admire contemporary works of art. By climbing the stairs or using the escalator, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city with Mount Ararat in the background.

Don't forget to visit the Vernissage—an open-air market where you can find carpets, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and antiques.

In the evening, have dinner at one of the famous restaurants, such as Lavash or Sherep, where you will taste traditional Armenian dishes. After dinner, visit Saryan Street, famous for its wine bars. There, you can sample the best Armenian wines and feel Yerevan's vibrant evening life.

You can end the day at the Ararat Brandy Factory. Armenian brandy was once a favorite of Churchill and De Gaulle. Here you can tour the cellars, hear stories, and enjoy a tasting.

Day 2: A Historical Journey into the Past

Dedicate the second day to the historical and natural treasures located outside of Yerevan. Start your journey to the Garni Temple. It is the only preserved pagan temple in the post-Soviet countries and is a crucial part of Armenian culture. After the temple, head to Geghard Monastery - a unique complex carved into the rock and a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to legend, the Holy Spear that pierced the side of Jesus was kept here.

Symphony of Stones - These are natural basalt columns that resemble a giant organ. It's one of the best places for photos.

Then continue your journey to Lake Sevan, the blue pearl of Armenia. Climb to the Sevanavank monastery to enjoy a magnificent view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. At the lakeshore restaurants, you can taste fresh ishkhan(trout) or sig (whitefish). Return to Yerevan and take a relaxing stroll around Swan Lake after the day's adventures.

Day 3: Mountains, Wine, and Religious Heritage

Spend the last day exploring the southern part of Armenia, known for its mountains, monasteries, and winemaking. Start your day at Khor Virap Monastery. It is located at the foot of Mount Ararat, offering the most beautiful view of the legendary mountain. There you can hear the story of St. Gregory the Illuminator.

The road will take you to the Noravank Monastery Complex. This unique monastery is surrounded by red rocks, which creates an incredible sight. After Noravank, visit the Areni wine village. There you can visit one of the local wineries, taste Armenian wine, and buy souvenirs. Return to Yerevan filled with positive impressions.

This three-day guide will give you a comprehensive understanding of Armenia.

Practical Tips

• Transportation - The most convenient option is to hire a driver or join a small group tour.
• Currency - Armenian Dram (AMD). Cards are widely accepted, but cash is still commonly used.
• Language - The official language is Armenian, but Russian and English are also widely spoken.
• Best Season - Spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October).
• Clothing - Modest clothing is recommended when visiting monasteries. Women may wear a headscarf.

In three days, you will go from pagan temples to medieval monasteries, from the bustling streets of Yerevan to the mountains surrounding Lake Sevan and wine vineyards. Armenia is small, but its size allows you to see many things without rushing.

This guide gives a broad overview of Armenia: art and culture in Yerevan, faith and history in Etchmiadzin and Khor Virap, nature in Sevan, and the thousand-year tradition of winemaking in Areni.

Even if you spend only three days here, Armenia will leave you with memories that will make you want to return.