1. Explore the first Christian country in the world

Armenia was the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as a state religion in 301 AD. Although Christianity was introduced into Armenia much earlier by apostles Bartholomew and Thaddeus in the first century AD, it was declared a state religion with the help of Saint Gregory the Illuminator. He became the first Catholicos of the Armenian Apostolic Church – the supreme spiritual head of all the Armenians.

The spiritual center of Armenian Apostolic Church is Etchmiadzin cathedral built by Saint Gregory Illuminator after a dream where Christ Himself descended on earth and pointed the place where the cathedral was to be built. The name “Etchmiadzin” translates as the place where the Only Begotten descended. From its foundation the Holy Etchmiadzin, which is often considered the oldest cathedral in the world, has been the seat of the Catholicos, the supreme head of the Armenian Church.

2. Discover the rich cultural and historical heritage

Armenia boasts one of the world’s oldest histories and it is no surprise that the rocky mountains, caves and stones are covered with petroglyphs. Legend has it that Noah’s Ark landed on the Armenian mountain of Ararat which makes Armenia the cradle of civilization. It’s a land rich with cultural heritage reflected on every corner of it. Armenia also known as the “land of churches” since there are over 3,000 churches and monasteries in this small country and what’s really amazing is that most of them are built in unique natural spots surrounded by gorges and mountains. While visiting Armenia make sure to take a tour to Tatev Monastery, Noravank, Sevanavank, Khor Virap, the only pagan temple Garni and of course the 5 UNESCO listed sights- Cathedral and Churches of Echmiadzin, the Archeological site of Zvartnots, the Monastery of Geghard and the Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin.

3. Admire the breathtaking views of mountainous landscapes

Despite its relatively small geographic size, Armenia offers stunning natural diversity with seven main landscape types across the country. Throughout this diversity of boundless beauty one can come across with massive mountains, basalt columns, deserts, lush forests, fertile valleys, rivers, lakes andwaterfalls. Due to the great abundance of mountains and stones, Armenia is often called “the country of stones”. There are more than 200 rivers, streams and 100 mountain lakes in this unique country of highlands. It is hard to talk about the enchanting nature of the country without mentioning lake Sevan or the so called “Blue Pearl of Armenia”. It is one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of 1,900 meters above sea level. Sometimes it seems that the water surface is about to touch the sky.

Armenia as a country full of natural monuments has become a popular destination for nature-based tourism. It is a perfect place for nature lovers who can enjoy breathtaking sceneries of different colors and shades at any time of the year. Due to the mountainous landscapes, uncharted routes and untouched nature Armenia has become one of the most popular hiking and trekking destinations in the world.

4. Taste one of the most ancient and delicious cuisines in the World

Armenian cuisine with its rich flavors and mouthwatering dishes will not leave indifferent even to the most rigorous gourmets. It is as ancient as its history with over 2000 years old culinary traditions. For Armenians the cuisine is directly associated with hospitality, since the table gathers family members, friends and relatives all together. Armenian cuisine is full of many delicious and fragrant dishes for both meat and vegetables lovers. The variety of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables available at any stop will surely please anyone visiting Armenia. Another feature of the national cuisine is the extensive use of spices which make the dishes even more aromatic. There are many traditional restaurants in Armenia offering a huge variety of national dishes. Make sure to try the incredible Armenian dolma, khorovats, harissa, gata and many other local dishes together with the famous lavash- a traditional UNESCO-listed thin bread.

5. Take the Longest Non-stop Ropeway in the World

Tatev Monastery is one of the most amazing sights of Armenia. It is built right on the edge of a cliff surrounded by stunning nature. The best way to get to this jewel of medieval Armenian architecture is to take the cableway called “The Wings of Tatev”. This cableway stretching over the picturesque gorge of the river Vorotan is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world (5752 m). During this 12-minute impressive flight you will admire the breathtaking views of Armenian nature.

6. Feel the real hospitality

For Armenians a guest is a gift from God. Although it may seem strange to be invited by local people to their houses for lunch or dinner, this is what locals call hospitality. People go out of their way to help the foreigners, to welcome them and do everything to make them feel comfortable in their homeland. This is the reason that any tourist visiting Armenia is amazed by the kindness and hospitality of the locals.