Armenia remains one of the few undiscovered gems of Europe. Luckily, under-the-radar destinations are our speciality here at Original Travel, so we have pulled together a list of our favourite things to do in Armenia for those planning an adventurous escape.
Head out for a hike
Hiking in Armenia is an absolute feast for the senses. As you lace up your boots and hit the trail, you'll be surrounded by stunning landscapes that are steeped in history and natural beauty. Your surroundings will be filled with rugged mountains, rolling hills and verdant forests as well as charming villages and ancient monasteries dotted along the way. The trails in Armenia offer something for every hiker, from easy strolls through fields of wildflowers to challenging treks up towering peaks. If you're up for a challenge, you can tackle the famous Mount Aragats, the highest peak in Armenia or opt for a more moderate hike to the stunning Lake Sevan. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden waterfalls, ancient monasteries and old ruins that offer a glimpse into Armenia’s past. The stunning Tatev Monastery, perched atop a rocky outcrop, and the Geghard Monastery, carved directly into the mountainside, are particular highlights.
Dress up for the opera
As you make your way inside the Yerevan Opera House, you'll be struck by the grandeur of the space, with its ornate columns, chandeliers and luxurious decor. The theatre is known for its exceptional acoustics and as the orchestra begins to play, you'll be swept away by the rich, full sound that fills the room. Sit back, opera glasses in hand, and enjoy operas, ballets and classical music filled concerts that brim with the country’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned operagoer or just looking for a unique experience, attending a performance at the Yerevan Opera House is one of the best things to do in Armenia. From the stunning venue to the exceptional performances, it's an unforgettable way to soak up some of the country’s culture.
Explore ancient caves
Exploring caves in Armenia is like embarking on a journey through time. The country is home to a wealth of underground wonders, from vast, otherworldly caverns to intimate, hidden passages that offer a glimpse into the country's rich history and geology. One of the most popular cave systems to explore is the Areni-1 Cave, located in the Vayots Dzor province. This ancient cave was once home to some of the world's earliest winemakers, and you can still see evidence of their craft on the walls of the cave. Another fascinating cave system to explore is the Magil Cave, found in the Syunik province. This vast underground complex is home to a network of interconnected tunnels, caverns and chambers, and is believed to have been used for ritual purposes by the prehistoric people who once inhabited the area. Armenia's caves are also home to a wealth of geological wonders, boasting stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers. The caves offer a unique opportunity to see the natural beauty of the country in a way that's hidden from the surface world.
Enjoy the winter weather
Skiing in Armenia is a winter wonderland adventure that promises snow-capped peaks, stunning vistas and thrilling slopes. Armenia boasts several ski resorts, each with their unique charm and offerings, making it a perfect destination for all types of skiers, from beginners to advanced. Tsaghkadzor ski resort, located just an hour away from the capital city of Yerevan, is one of the most popular ski destinations in Armenia. The resort is nestled in the heart of the beautiful Tsaghkadzor Mountains and offers a variety of ski runs. The slopes in Armenia are known for their excellent quality snow, and the resorts offer state-of-the-art facilities and equipment rentals, including ski and snowboard rentals, making a winter wonderland adventure one of the best things to do in Armenia. If your legs are weary, hop aboard a snowmobile for a tour of the mountains, or head to the ice rink to see if you are any good on skates.
Try out traditional crafts
Exploring traditional crafts is one of the best things to do in Armenia to get up close and personal with its heritage and inhabitants. Armenia has a long and proud history of traditional crafts, passed down through generations and still practiced by artisans today. From carpet weaving to pottery, jewellery making to wood carving, there's no shortage of traditional crafts to discover in Armenia. Many of these crafts have been practiced in Armenia for centuries, and the techniques used today are often the same as those used by artisans hundreds of years ago. Carpet weaving is one of the most popular crafts today, and Armenian carpets are renowned for their intricate designs and high quality. You'll have the opportunity to watch skilled weavers at work, meticulously creating intricate patterns by hand. Pottery is another traditional craft that has been practiced in Armenia for thousands of years. Armenian pottery is known for its distinctive style and intricate designs, often featuring images of animals, plants and other elements from nature. You'll have the chance to try your hand at pottery making, learning how to shape and mould clay into beautiful, functional pieces. You'll meet skilled craftspeople who are passionate about their craft and eager to share their knowledge with others. Through these interactions, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the country's long heritage.
