Yerevan
The first stop of your trip is the capital of Armenia. Yerevan was founded in 782 BC, making it older than even Rome. The cityscape is very distinctive thanks to the pink-red-brownish colored volcanic rock used to build the capital. This is also the origin of Yerevan’s nickname “pink capital”.
The ancient architecture is nicely contrasted by more modern buildings and contemporary designs. These differences continue in the lively city center, where you’ll find hip cafés and stylish wine bars, as well as historic spas and traditional tea houses. The architectural highlight and heart of the city center is the impressive Republic Square.
We also recommend a stroll along Northern Avenue and Abovyan Street, which are considered the most popular streets in the city. Alternatively, you could visit the Genocide Museum, where you can learn more about the difficult history of the Armenian people. You also shouldn’t miss Yerevan's world-famous Brandy Distillery, which is located in an old fortress.
Near Republic Square, the historic city center, you’ll have a large choice of hostels for the night. Staying in a four-bed dorm will cost about €5.
Halidzor
A taxi will take you to Halidzor for about €12. The fortress, built in the 17th century, is located near the town of Kapan and is the cultural highlight of any trip to Armenia. We highly recommend a ride on the cable car "Wings of Tatev". It runs high above the river Vorotan and connects Halidzor with the 1,500 m high Tatev Monastery.
At a length of 5.75 km without intermediate support, the cable car is even listed in the Guinness Book of Records. It takes you directly to the Armenian Apostolic Tatev Monastery, which is considered one of the most important architectural monuments in the country. Back in Halidzor, you should also explore the surrounding area by hiking through the green valleys, over suspension bridges, and through idyllic walnut groves.
Not far from Halidzor you’ll find hotels where you can stay for €25 per night in a double room.
Yeghegnadzor
The town of Yeghegnadzor is situated at an altitude of 1,200 m in the valley of the Arpa River. You can reach it from Kapan for just €10. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, it’s the ideal starting point for exploring Armenia’s south. Discover the ancient landscape and be inspired by the locals’ serenity!
You also shouldn’t miss this chance to take in the country’s beautiful scenery on hiking trips. Discover hidden gems such as the Smbataberd Fortress, the Mozrov and Arjeri Caves, and the picturesque village of Yeghegis. Since Armenia is one of the oldest wine producers in the world, you should also visit the area surrounding Areni and take part in a tasting at one of the traditional wineries.
During your stay in Yeghegnadzor, you can stay in a twin room in a hostel for €14 per night.
Noravank
Just a short €2 taxi ride from Yeghegnadzor is the Noravank Monastery. This impressive monastery complex is located at the end of the Amaghu Valley against a backdrop that is unique in the Armenian mountains.
The monastery complex was built in the 13th century and features two churches, a chapel, and a lot of cross-stones (so-called khachkars). Its unique architecture with detailed sculptures, ornate reliefs, and religious elements as well as its historical significance make this monastery a truly magical place. Add the magnificent panoramic view of the brick-red cliffs of the gorge, and it’s no surprise that Noravank is considered to be one of the most beautiful monastic buildings in the country.
A comfortable single room in a hostel near the monastery costs €18 per night.
Lake Sevan
Your final stop is Lake Sevan. A taxi ride (about €10) across the picturesque Selim Pass will bring you to one of the largest high-mountain lakes in the world. The "blue pearl" of Armenia is twice the size of the Dead Sea and is embedded in an imposing mountain backdrop. Do you fancy a beach holiday at an altitude of almost 2,000 m?
In that case, you’ve come to the right place! On the shores of Lake Sevan, you’ll find small stretches of beach where you can just relax and go swimming in the fresh, deep blue water. You can also go diving, windsurfing, or boating here. To get the best view of the lake, visit the Sevanavank, a monastic complex located on a peninsula above the lake. The monastery itself is also a very popular photo backdrop!
A private room in a nearby hostel will cost you €13 per night.
