Embarking on the diverse things to do in Yerevan, from admiring the ancient manuscripts at the Matenadaran to soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Republic Square, quickly fills your itinerary with memorable experiences. However, day trips from Yerevan offer an extension to your journey, allowing you to explore Armenia’s stunning landscapes, historical monasteries, and rich cultural sites that lie just beyond the city’s embrace.
Venturing out from Yerevan, you’ll discover a broader array of things to do in Armenia, such as the breathtaking views from the Tatev Monastery, accessible via the world’s longest non-stop reversible aerial tramway, or the serene beauty of Lake Sevan. These day excursions not only highlight the natural beauty of Armenia but also its deep historical roots and cultural richness.
Choosing where to stay in Yerevan is a key part of planning your adventure, as the right accommodation provides convenience for city exploration and ease of access for day trips. A central location in Yerevan ensures you are never far from the city’s major attractions and dining options, while also being an ideal starting point for discovering the treasures that lie beyond Armenia’s capital.
Discover Best Day Trips from Yerevan, Armenia
1. Garni Temple, Armenia
Garni Temple, a Greco-Roman pagan temple dedicated to the sun god Mihr, stands as a unique piece of ancient architecture in Armenia. Located amidst scenic mountains, it offers a glimpse into Armenia’s pre-Christian history.
Distance: Approximately 28 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Greco-Roman pagan temple dedicated to the sun god Mihr
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Temple Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Azat River Gorge, Geghard Monastery (nearby UNESCO site)
Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into the mountainside.
2. Lake Sevan, Armenia
Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, is famous for its stunning blue waters and historic monasteries, including Sevanavank. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sailing, and enjoying Armenian cuisine at lakeside restaurants.
Distance: Approximately 66 km
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: One of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes, Sevanavank Monastery
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Sevanavank Monastery: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sevanavank Monastery, Hayravank Monastery
Travel Tip: Try the local fish, especially the Sevan trout, known for its unique taste, and visit the Sevanavank Monastery for a panoramic view of the lake.
3. Khor Virap Monastery, Armenia
Khor Virap Monastery is an iconic Armenian monastery near the Turkish border, offering one of the best views of Mount Ararat. It’s significant for its history as the place where Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned.
Distance: Approximately 44 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Iconic Armenian monastery near the Turkish border with views of Mount Ararat
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Mount Ararat views, surrounding vineyards
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning for a clearer view of Mount Ararat and fewer crowds.
4. Echmiadzin, Armenia
Echmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, features the Echmiadzin Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. The town is also home to several other ancient churches and religious artifacts.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Echmiadzin Cathedral
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cathedral Entrance: Free
- Museum: $2
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Echmiadzin Cathedral, Saint Gayane Church, Saint Hripsime Church
Travel Tip: Check the schedule for church services to experience a traditional Armenian mass, which is both solemn and beautiful.
5. Noravank Monastery, Armenia
Noravank Monastery, nestled in a narrow gorge surrounded by towering brick-red cliffs, is known for its stunning two-story Surb Astvatsatsin church. The area’s natural beauty adds to the historical and architectural significance of the site.
Distance: Approximately 122 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Monastery nestled in a narrow gorge surrounded by brick-red cliffs
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Surb Astvatsatsin Church, Areni wine region
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for softer light, perfect for photography, and explore the nearby Areni wine region for wine tasting.
6. Tsaghkadzor, Armenia
Tsaghkadzor, a resort town known for its ski facilities and alpine scenery, is also home to the 11th-century Kecharis Monastery. In summer, it’s a great destination for hiking and in winter, for skiing and snowboarding.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ski facilities, Kecharis Monastery
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cable Car: $5 (one way)
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Tsaghkadzor ski resort, Kecharis Monastery
Travel Tip: If visiting in winter, consider renting ski equipment for a day on the slopes, or take the cable car for a scenic view of the mountains.
7. Dilijan, Armenia
Dilijan, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” is renowned for its lush forested hills and natural springs. The town also features the Dilijan National Park and the historic Haghartsin Monastery.
Distance: Approximately 99 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lush forested hills, Dilijan National Park, Haghartsin Monastery
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Dilijan National Park: Free
- Haghartsin Monastery: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Haghartsin Monastery, Old Town Dilijan
Travel Tip: Explore the old town of Dilijan, known for its traditional Armenian architecture, and visit the local museum to learn about the town’s history.
8. Saghmosavank Monastery, Armenia
Saghmosavank Monastery, perched on the edge of the Kasagh River gorge, offers breathtaking views alongside significant religious and historical architecture. The site is known for its medieval Armenian manuscripts and the impressive Saghmosavank Church.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: Around 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Monastery perched on the edge of the Kasagh River gorge
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Kasagh River Gorge, Saghmosavank Church
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the stunning sunset views over the gorge, and bring a camera for the picturesque landscape.
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Sources:
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