5 of the Coolest Armenia Tourist Attractions to Visit in Yerevan

Traveling to Armenia will likely include a visit to Yerevan, Armenia’s capital city.  Nicknamed “” due to the pink hue of the stone used in most of its architecture, Yerevan is home to roughly a million people  and lots of cool places to visit.  Since Armenia was the first country to officially declare itself a Christian nation, there are tons of monasteries and churches that entice people into visiting Armenia.  Yerevan houses a large number of these architectural gems, but for purposes of diversification, I am going to list a variety of Armenia tourist attractions that might help groups looking for something more than just a tour of Yerevan’s old religious buildings.  Here are 5 Armenia tourist attractions you do not want to miss in Yerevan when you visit Armenia.

TRAVEL TO YEREVAN

1. Erebuni Fortress & Museum: The Erebuni Fortress dates back to 782 BC and is a beautiful specimen of an ancient fortified city. Perched on top of a hill that overlooks the city, this fortress is one of several that was erected to protect the northern borders of the ancient kingdom of Urartu.  In 1959, archeologists descended upon the site after a farmer discovered an ancient stone tablet on the premises.  The fortress contains large storerooms, oven pits, workshops, and more within its walls.  Do not miss out on this fascinating piece of history when traveling to Armenia.
2. NOY Erevan Brandy Factory: Did you know that Armenia is famous for its brandy? Even if you are not a brandy fanatic, a tour of the NOY Erevan Brandy Factory is sure to peak your interest. Set up an appointment
   to tour the factory and learn about the process of making brandy and sign up for a tasting.  What better way to end a tour than to sample some delicious brandy with some fresh fruit
   and chocolates?  Tours are available in English or Russian and cost less than $10 per person.
3. Cascade: The Cascade is a massive outdoor, tiered staircase (over 700 steps!) that at the top offers a beautiful view of the city. Located in the center of Yerevan, the cascade is an outdoor playground for those that enjoy sculptures and gardens.  If you climb the stairs, each new level you reach has statues and even fountains.  (Inside the cascade is an escalator if you do not want to tackle the stairs as well as a museum and gallery.)  At the bottom of the cascade are plenty of good restaurants and cafes to choose from.  Basically, it is a great place to people watch, roam, and relax when you visit Yerevan.
4. Zoravor S. Astvatsatsin Church: Okay, I have got to include at least one church on the list for you to visit in Yerevan. The Zoravor S. Astvatsatsin Church is a quaint little hidden gem of a church that was built in the 17^th century and now lives in the midst of soviet style apartment complexes in the center of the city.  Talk about architectural whiplash!  The church’s architecture in and of itself is rather simplistic, but quite beautiful. Although it is one of the oldest churches in Yerevan, is still holds services which travelers are invited to observe.  If you are only going to visit one ancient church in Yerevan, stop in and see this one.
5. Dalan Art Gallery: Let’s end with a great place in Yerevan to buy some souvenirs and relax with a good meal. The Dalan Art Gallery is a small (but packed!) souvenir shop with lots of unique handmade crafts and local artwork. Out back is a garden and upstairs is a small café where you can indulge in some tasty Armenian food.  So after a busy day of roaming around the city, this hidden treasure trove is a good place to browse for some souvenirs and unwind.

VISITNG ARMENIA

It is likely you may only be spending a day or two in Yerevan if you are planning an extensive tour of the country, but let me encourage you to take time to enjoy the Pink City while you are there.  There is so much to do and see in Yerevan.  Not only is it bursting with history, but there are so many interesting pockets of the city to explore.  Take your time and savor the experience.  Happy traveling!

Photos by: toursinarmenia.am, foreignpolicynews.org, snipview.com, armenia-g.blogspot.com