Why Armenia Is the Travel Secret Everyone’s Talking About—And Yerevan Is Just the Start

If Armenia isn’t on your travel list yet, it should be. This small but striking country, nestled between Europe and Asia, offers a travel experience like no other. When you visit Armenia, you can expect ancient landmarks, delicious food, and landscapes that change dramatically throughout the day. Yerevan, the capital, is both deeply historic and refreshingly modern.

And when you’re ready to start planning your journey, the travel experts at ASAP Tickets are just a phone call away at 844-300-7983. With exclusive fares and personalized service, we’ll help you travel to Armenia without overpaying for flights.

Whether you’re tracing your heritage or just want a meaningful vacation, Armenia offers authentic experiences!

Yerevan: Ancient City, Fresh Vibe

Yerevan is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, older than Rome and just as historic. Founded in 782 BC, it’s built on layers of civilization, yet it feels surprisingly modern. The city’s architecture features rosy volcanic stone, called tuff, which glows in the sunlight. That’s why Yerevan is lovingly called “The Pink City.”

Despite its deep history, Yerevan has a youthful energy. You’ll find wide, walkable boulevards lined with trees, fountains, and public art. Republic Square lights up each evening with a musical fountain show that’s free to enjoy. The Cascade Complex offers a sweeping stairway of contemporary sculptures, gardens, and panoramic city views just a few blocks away.

Many of the city’s best experiences are outdoors. Locals gather at open-air cafés in spring and summer, especially around Northern Avenue and Freedom Square. Street musicians play jazz, folk, and classical music, adding charm to your evening stroll.

Even better, Yerevan is compact and easy to explore on foot. Most major attractions—including museums, markets, and restaurants—are within a 20-minute walk of the city center. So, whether traveling solo or with family, getting around is simple and stress-free.

And for a taste of daily life, head to Vernissage Market on the weekend. This open-air bazaar sells handmade crafts, antiques, and paintings. It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs and meet local artisans.

If you plan to visit Armenia, Yerevan is the perfect place to begin your journey. Most international travelers arrive through Zvartnots International Airport, which is only a short drive from the city. You can also fly into Shirak Airport in Gyumri, although it primarily serves regional flights. Still, Yerevan is easier to reach and better connected. Plus, the city offers a smooth introduction to Armenia, where old traditions meet modern comforts.

Armenian Cuisine: Comfort Food with Character

Armenian food is tasty and deeply satisfying. It’s built around fresh ingredients, slow cooking, and generous hospitality. At nearly every meal, you’ll find warm lavash, a traditional flatbread baked in clay ovens and served straight to the table.

Popular dishes include khorovats (grilled meat), dolma (grape leaves stuffed with rice or meat), and khashlama, a hearty stew of lamb and vegetables. Even everyday meals are flavorful, thanks to herbs like tarragon, parsley, and coriander.

To explore local flavors, stop by Yerevan’s GUM Market. You’ll see colorful piles of dried fruits, nuts, and spices—many from nearby villages. It’s also a great place to sample sujukh, a sweet treat made from walnuts and grape juice.

While dining out, expect to eat slowly. Meals in Armenia are social, often shared with friends and family over several courses. So, if you’re planning to visit Armenia, be sure to bring your appetite. You’ll likely leave the table full—and smiling.

Visit Armenia for Beautiful Landscapes Within Reach

In just a few hours’ drive from Yerevan, you’ll find a remarkable variety of landscapes and experiences. Head northeast to Tsaghkadzor, a charming mountain town known for its ski resort in winter and cool forest trails in summer. It’s a favorite spot for both active travelers and those who want a peaceful escape.

To the east, Lake Sevan offers a refreshing retreat with its deep blue waters and scenic shoreline. Whether you’re enjoying fresh fish at a lakeside café or visiting Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a hill with sweeping views, it’s an easy and rewarding day trip from the capital.

Further south, you’ll find the breathtaking Tatev Monastery, one of Armenia’s most iconic landmarks. To reach it, take a ride on the Wings of Tatev, the longest non-stop double-track cable car in the world. The journey itself—gliding high above the Vorotan Gorge—is an unforgettable experience.

As you explore, you’ll pass through villages with hillside vineyards, discover mineral springs in places like Jermuk, and come across fortresses and hidden chapels that seem frozen in time. Armenia’s compact size makes it easy to cover a lot of ground without ever feeling rushed.

Culture and History You Can Feel

Armenia’s history runs deep; you don’t just read about it. You feel it in the stones, the stories, and the silence of its ancient sites. This is, after all, the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion, back in 301 AD.

Some of the most spectacular places to explore include Geghard Monastery, partially carved into the cliffs, and the Temple of Garni, a rare example of Greco-Roman architecture in the region. Both are less than an hour from Yerevan, making them ideal for half-day trips.

But Armenia isn’t only about the past. In Yerevan, tradition blends with creativity. Visit the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, housed inside the massive Cascade staircase, or explore ancient texts at the Matenadaran manuscript museum.

Even a simple walk through the city offers insights. Sculptures, murals, and modern memorials share space with centuries-old architecture. So, when you visit Armenia, you’ll discover a country that honors its roots while embracing what’s next.

Real Connections with Locals

Each trip to Armenia feels personal. People go out of their way to help visitors, whether by offering directions, sharing stories, or pouring them a homemade apricot drink.

When you visit Armenia, kindness is part of daily life in its cities and villages. And if you’re exploring family roots, those connections can become even more meaningful.

A Safe and Affordable Destination

Armenia is ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Hotels, guesthouses, and dining options are plentiful and well-priced, and public transportation is affordable and reliable.

Safety is also a major plus. Whether you’re walking around Yerevan at night or heading into the countryside, you’ll feel secure and welcome.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Armenia?

If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Armenia is, it depends on what you want to do. The shoulder seasons—May to June and September to early October—are ideal for mild weather, fewer tourists, and lush scenery. During these months, you’ll enjoy blooming landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and easy access to major sites without large crowds.

• Summer (July to August) brings festivals, outdoor concerts, and long, sunny days. However, it can get hot in Yerevan and more crowded at popular attractions. That said, this is a great time to explore cooler mountain towns or visit Lake Sevan.
• Winter (December to February) is perfect if you enjoy snow sports. Tsaghkadzor, Armenia’s most popular ski resort, offers affordable skiing, cozy accommodations, and fewer lines than European resorts.

In short, the best time to visit Armenia depends on your goals, but spring and fall often strike the perfect balance between comfort, cost, and culture.

How to Visit Armenia from the U.S. or Canada

Wondering how to get to Armenia from the U.S. or Canada? While there are no nonstop flights from North America to Yerevan, getting there is still easy with the right connections.

Most travelers fly into Zvartnots International Airport (EVN), located just outside Yerevan. Popular one-stop routes often connect through major European or Middle Eastern hubs like Vienna, Paris, Frankfurt, Doha, or Istanbul.

Top airlines for this route include:

• Qatar Airways (via Doha)
• Emirates (via Dubai)
• Lufthansa (via Frankfurt)
• Air France (via Paris)
• Austrian Airlines (via Vienna)
• Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)

The best departure cities from the U.S. are New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Washington D.C. (IAD), and Chicago (ORD).

From Canada, look for connections out of Toronto (YYZ) or Montreal (YUL)—both offer convenient one-stop routes.

Even better, calling an ASAP Tickets agent can help you find hidden deals, multi-city discounts, and better fares than you’ll see online. Our agents offer flights with over 200 global airlines, helping you reach Armenia affordably, no matter where you’re starting from.

Even better, calling an ASAP Tickets agent gives you access to hidden deals, multi-city discounts, and better fares than you’ll find online. Our team of over 2,400 experienced agents is available 24/7, ready to help you compare options and customize your itinerary. With access to more than 200 global airlines, we’ll help you find affordable flights to Armenia, no matter where you’re flying from.

Final Thoughts: Armenia Could Be Your Most Rewarding Trip Yet

If you’re looking for a destination offering deep history, stunning landscapes, and authentic local experiences, Armenia should be high on your list without the crowds. From the vibrant streets of Yerevan to the quiet beauty of its mountain villages, every part of the country invites you to slow down and explore.

When you’re ready to plan your trip, our travel experts at ASAP Tickets can help. With access to exclusive fares and personalized support, we make it easier—and more affordable—to visit Armenia with confidence. Call 844-300-7983 to start planning your journey today.