Armenia is a small but incredibly beautiful country in the South Caucasus. It’s renowned for its rich history, distinct culture, unique architecture, national cuisine, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its people. Despite its compact size, Armenia boasts an impressive number of historical and cultural landmarks. It’s a remarkable blend of ancient history and modern culture. Here you’ll find everything — from majestic mountains and ancient temples to contemporary art spaces and picturesque vineyards.
We’ve put together a list of 10 must-visit attractions in Armenia that will help you dive into the soul of this extraordinary country.
Cascade Complex, Yerevan
One of Yerevan’s most iconic landmarks, the Cascade is a massive stairway that connects the downtown Kentron area with the Monument district. Designed by architect Alexander Tamanyan as part of his 1924 master plan for the city, construction of the Cascade didn’t begin until 1971 and was completed in the early 2000s with support from Armenian-American philanthropist Gerard Cafesjian.
The Cascade consists of five main levels, adorned with fountains, sculptures, and flower beds. It stands about 118 meters tall and stretches over 500 meters long. Each tier offers panoramic viewing platforms with stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. Today, the Cascade is not only a masterpiece of urban architecture but also a vibrant cultural hub that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. It’s a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike — a place where art, culture, and nature converge in perfect harmony.
Garni Pagan Temple
Located just 28 km east of Yerevan in the scenic Azat River valley, the Garni Temple is the only preserved pagan temple in Armenia. Built in the 1st century AD (around 77 AD) by King Tiridates I in honor of the sun god Mithra, the temple was part of the larger Garni Fortress complex. It remained untouched even after Armenia adopted Christianity in 301 AD.
Constructed from bluish basalt, the temple follows the classical Greco-Roman style with 24 elegant Ionic columns representing the hours of the day. The temple interior once held a statue of the sun god, and a shaft of sunlight would dramatically illuminate it during sacred rituals. Though the temple was destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1679, it was fully restored between 1966 and 1976. Archaeologists also uncovered a Roman-style bathhouse and a stunning mosaic with the inscription, “We worked but did not get paid.”
Garni is more than just a relic of pagan times — it’s a living testament to Armenia’s ancient heritage.
Lake Sevan
Poet Rasul Gamzatov once wrote: “Whenever we come near, its living water burns like fire, calling back the distant sons to the sunny land of their roots.”
And indeed, Lake Sevan is the jewel of Armenia — one of the largest high-altitude freshwater lakes in the world. Nestled at an altitude of 1,900 meters, it covers 940 square kilometers and reaches depths of up to 95 meters.
Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the lake is framed by majestic mountain ranges. Its crystal-clear waters shift colors depending on the light — from turquoise to deep blue and silvery gray. Culturally and historically significant, Lake Sevan is surrounded by monasteries and archaeological sites, including the famous Sevanavank Monastery. It’s also a key ecological and economic resource, home to fish species like trout, whitefish, and carp.
Visiting Sevan offers tranquility, natural beauty, and a taste of Armenia’s deep connection to water and spirit.
Dilijan
As you approach the mountain town of Dilijan, the scenery takes your breath away. Often referred to as the “Armenian Switzerland,” this lush, serene retreat is located in the northeast of the country and is surrounded by dense forests and rolling green hills.
First mentioned in the 13th century, Dilijan has long been a center for crafts and trade. According to legend, the town is named after a shepherd who fell in love with a princess and was tragically killed for it. His mother wandered the forest crying “Dili jan, Dili jan…”
The town is home to mineral springs, historical monasteries, and peaceful walking trails. It’s a favorite destination for artists, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a quiet escape from the hustle of everyday life. Dilijan leaves a lasting impression with its charm, hospitality, and timeless beauty.
Tatev Monastery, Syunik Province
Visiting Tatev Monastery is a highlight of any trip to Armenia. Perched on a cliff above the Vorotan Gorge, it can be reached via the record-breaking “Wings of Tatev” aerial tramway — the longest reversible cable car in the world.
Founded in the 4th century, the monastery complex as we see it today was mostly built between the 9th and 10th centuries. In the Middle Ages, Tatev was a major educational and spiritual center, housing the prestigious Tatev University.
Highlights include:
Saints Peter and Paul Church (895–906): the main church, known for its elegant design and detailed stone carvings.
Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church (11th century): noted for its refined simplicity.
Holy Mother of God Church (10th century): served as a royal mausoleum.
Gavazan Column (904): a mysterious octagonal column that functioned as a solar clock and symbol of resilience.
Tatev remains an active monastery and spiritual sanctuary — a place where visitors can find peace and inspiration.
Debed Canyon, Lori Province
In the northern region of Lori lies Debed Canyon — one of Armenia’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Carved by the Debed River, the canyon stretches for dozens of kilometers, flanked by lush forests and dramatic cliffs.
The area is rich in biodiversity, featuring oak, beech, and maple trees, along with a variety of wildlife, including foxes, eagles, and hawks. Debed Canyon is also home to some of Armenia’s most treasured cultural monuments. Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the monasteries of Haghpat, Sanahin, and Akhtala — are located here.
Debed is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the harmony between nature and history. It’s a place that immerses you in Armenia’s spiritual and natural legacy.
Amberd Fortress, Mount Aragats
Sitting at 2,300 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Aragats, the Amberd Fortress is a stunning medieval complex built where the Arkashen and Amberd rivers meet. The name "Amberd" means “Fortress in the Clouds,” and it truly feels like something out of a legend.
Originally built in the 7th century by the Kamsarakan princes, the fortress later came under the rule of the powerful Pahlavuni family. In 1026, Prince Vahram Pahlavuni commissioned the construction of the Vahramashen Church, an exquisite example of medieval Armenian architecture.
The fortress includes:
The main castle: with thick stone walls and defensive towers.
Bathhouse: rare for fortresses, reflecting the refinement of daily life.
Water supply system: complex underground canals vital for survival during sieges.
Though ravaged by Timur's armies in the 14th century, Amberd still stands as a proud symbol of Armenian resilience and artistry.
Areni Cave, Arpa River Valley
Also known as the “Cave of Birds,” Areni Cave is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Nestled in the Arpa River valley in southern Armenia, it has revealed extraordinary insights into ancient civilizations.
Excavations began in the early 2000s and have uncovered layers of history dating from the 6th millennium BC to the Middle Ages. Notable discoveries include:
The world’s oldest leather shoe (5,500 years old), found in 2008.
The world’s oldest known winery (4,100 BC), complete with grape presses, fermentation vats, and storage vessels.
Human remains and tools, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life.
Set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop, Areni Cave is a fascinating blend of history, archaeology, and natural beauty. It continues to be a major research site and a window into humanity’s distant past.
Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex, Yerevan
One of the most painful "scars" in Armenian history is the 1915 Genocide committed by the Ottoman Empire. Massacres, atrocities, forced labor, and the deportation of the Armenian population took place during World War I, from 1914 to 1918. The Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex, located on a hill in the western part of Yerevan, is one of the most significant and sacred sites in Armenia. Every year, on April 24, thousands of people gather here to honor and remember the victims of the Armenian Genocide.
The memorial was built in 1967, designed by architects Kalashyan and Mkrtchyan, and sculptor Arakelyan. The decision to build it was made during a time when the Armenian Genocide began to receive official recognition in Soviet Armenia. The complex was created not only as a place of mourning but also as a symbol of national rebirth and the pursuit of justice.
The Tsitsernakaberd complex consists of several key elements, each holding deep symbolic meaning:
Obelisk: A 44-meter-high needle-like obelisk split into two parts symbolizes the rebirth of the Armenian people and their will to live. It represents the past and future, divided by tragedy but united by a shared history and culture.
Eternal Flame: At the heart of the complex lies a circular structure with an eternal flame burning at its center. This flame symbolizes eternal remembrance and enduring grief for the victims. Surrounding the flame are twelve basalt slabs representing the 12 lost provinces of Western Armenia.
Wall of Remembrance: A long wall engraved with the names of towns and villages where mass killings and deportations occurred. This wall is a solemn reminder of the genocide's vast scale and geographic impact.
Genocide Museum: Opened in 1995, the museum is located near the memorial and features a vast collection of documents, photographs, eyewitness accounts, and other materials chronicling the genocide. The museum plays a crucial role in education and awareness, helping to preserve the memory of this tragedy for future generations.
Tsitsernakaberd is not just a monument — it’s a living reminder of the Armenian people’s resilience, their enduring grief, and their hope for justice and peace. A visit here leaves a powerful and lasting impression, helping visitors understand the importance of preserving historical memory and respecting human life.
Ararat Brandy Factory, Yerevan
The Ararat Brandy Factory is another cultural landmark of Armenia. The factory's history dates back to the late 19th century, when entrepreneur Nerses Tairyan established the first distillery in Yerevan. In 1899, the production was expanded with the help of renowned winemaker Vasily Tairyan, who introduced French distillation methods. This innovation led to the creation of a unique product — Armenian brandy, which quickly gained international fame and became a symbol of top-tier quality.
The celebrated spirit was showcased at international exhibitions and enjoyed by world leaders — Winston Churchill among them. Today, the Ararat Brandy Factory produces a wide range of products, from three-year-old varieties to aged, premium blends.
The factory is open to visitors, offering tours that unveil the brandy-making process, explore ancient cellars, and include tastings of the finest samples. Tours are available in multiple languages. During the visit, guests can learn about the factory's history, see traditional tools and production methods, and visit the on-site museum featuring rare artifacts and awards earned by Ararat brandy around the world.
The Ararat Brandy Factory is not only a production site but a cultural icon of Armenia. Its products are highly esteemed abroad and are an integral part of the country’s heritage. A visit to the factory offers unforgettable experiences and a chance to immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions of Armenian winemaking — all while savoring the rich aroma and taste of the world-famous Ararat brandy.
Looking to explore Armenia with ease?
The best car rental deals in Armenia are available at secrental.com! With an easy-to-use search, a wide selection of vehicles, and attractive rates, you’ll enjoy maximum comfort as you discover the beauty of this amazing country.
