Armenia Travel Guide: Must-Read Before You Go

Armenia, the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion, is a land rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. It boasts ancient monasteries, stunning Caucasus mountain views, and unique cultural experiences. Here's a comprehensive travel guide covering visas, transportation, accommodation, attractions, and cuisine. 1. **Visa & Entry** - **Visa-free policy**: Chinese citizens can enter Armenia visa-free for up to 30 days. - **Customs check**: Be prepared to show accommodation bookings upon arrival. Additional questioning may occur if you've visited Azerbaijan. - **Land entry**: Take a bus from Tbilisi, Georgia to Yerevan (6-hour ride, ~¥140). 2. **Best Time to Visit** - **Spring (Apr-May)** & **Autumn (Sep-Oct)**: Pleasant weather for outdoor activities. - **Summer (Jun-Aug)**: Ideal for Lake Sevan escapes, though Yerevan gets hot. - **Winter (Nov-Mar)**: Great for skiing, but mountain roads may be affected. 3. **Transportation** - **Public transit**: Yerevan metro/buses cost ~400 AMD (¥6). - **Long-distance**: - **Minibuses**: Yerevan to Lake Sevan (~500 AMD). - **Private taxis**: Recommended for remote sites like Khor Virap. - **Self-drive**: Scenic routes from Georgia, but mind road conditions. 4. **Recommended Stays** - **Yerevan**: - **MidCity Hostel Yerevan** (~¥66/night, free laundry/kitchen). - **Republic Square area hotels**: Central location. - **Lake Sevan**: Lakeside resorts with panoramic views. 5. **Must-See Attractions** **Yerevan Highlights** - **Republic Square**: City center landmark with museums. - **Cascade Complex**: City views + Mount Ararat vistas. - **Armenian Genocide Museum**: Historical insight with Ararat views. **Monasteries & Nature** - **Khor Virap Monastery**: Border viewpoint of Ararat (Noah's Ark landing site). - **Geghard Monastery**: UNESCO site partially carved from rock. - **Lake Sevan**: Caucasus' largest alpine lake with Sevanavank Monastery. - **Garni Temple**: Armenia's only Hellenistic temple near "Symphony of Stones" basalt columns. **Other Recommendations** - **Tatev Monastery**: Ride the "Wings of Tatev" cable car. - **Dilijan National Park**: "Armenian Switzerland" for hiking. 6. **Local Cuisine** - **Khachapuri**: National cheese-filled bread. - **Dolma**: Grape-leaf wrapped rice/meat rolls. - **Kurt**: Dried yogurt cheese appetizer. - **Sevan trout**: Fresh lake specialty. 7. **Budget Guide** - **Backpacker**: ~¥200-300/day (hostel + transit + street food). - **Comfort**: ~¥500-800/day (mid-range hotel + taxis + dining). 8. **Tips** - **Currency**: Use AMD; withdraw fee-free at ACBA Bank ATMs. - **Language**: Armenian; English/Russian may work; download translation apps. - **Safety**: Generally secure; watch valuables. 9. **Sample Itinerary (4-5 Days)** - **Day 1**: Yerevan (Republic Square, Cascade, Genocide Museum). - **Day 2**: Khor Virap + Garni + "Symphony of Stones". - **Day 3**: Lake Sevan day trip. - **Day 4**: Geghard + Dilijan (optional). Though compact, Armenia offers profound history and dramatic landscapes perfect for culture/outdoor enthusiasts. Extend your trip to neighboring **Georgia** or **Azerbaijan** if time allows.