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Road Trips in Armenia

Armenia is a good destination for taking a road trip because of its diverse and picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming people. The country is small but packs a punch with its breathtaking mountain ranges, rolling hills, and verdant valleys.

One of the highlights of a road trip in Armenia is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Tavush region, which offers stunning views of the lush forests, deep gorges, and snow-capped peaks of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. Another must-see destination is the stunning Lake Sevan, which sits at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters and is surrounded by scenic hills and forests.

Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to experience the country's rich cultural heritage, including ancient monasteries, medieval churches, and fortresses. The monasteries of Geghard and Haghpat are two of the most popular destinations and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. These ancient structures offer a glimpse into the country's rich religious and cultural history and are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Armenia is also known for its delicious cuisine and hospitality, and a road trip is the perfect opportunity to sample the local food and meet the friendly locals. You'll find traditional dishes such as khachapuri, a bread filled with cheese, and the spicy meat stew known as khorovats, which are best enjoyed with a glass of Armenian brandy.

In conclusion, a road trip in Armenia offers an unforgettable experience, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you're an experienced traveler or a first-timer, this small but mighty country is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Expect on your itinerary

Value Value
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Nature Nature
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Shopping Shopping
Security Security

Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in Armenia

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Armenia Road Trip Armenia Road Trip
Armenia Road Trip
Europe - Armenia
1,166 km 44 km/h 10 days roadtrip
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1,295 km 61 km/h 10 days roadtrip
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Vardenyats (Selim) Pass Scenic Drive
Europe - Armenia
59 km 58 km/h 1 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights in Armenia

One of the most popular places in Armenia is, of course, its capital, Yerevan. Interestingly, this place is one of the most rapidly developing European cities. Start your sightseeing trip from Republic Square and take a stroll around its climatic city streets. You’ll have an opportunity to admire such places as the Blue Mosque or the fascinating Cascade. Yerevan is also known as the City of Cafés so don’t forget to take at least a take-away coffee from one of the cafés available in the city centre.

Armenia is riddled with beautiful natural jewels. Travel to the second largest forest reserve in the country – the Shikahogh State Reserve to admire Armenia’s wildlife galore. It’s an ideal option for holidaymakers who would like to combine trekking with birdwatching. Yet another interesting place to visit for those seeking peaceful spaces is Lake Sevan. Around it, you can explore a number of monasteries and visit a number of popular beaches. 

Around the lake, there are plenty of options for walking trips. You can also take some time to visit the nearby towns of Vanadzor or Navur. The former offers a great insight into the local architecture with such places as Vanadzor Central Park or Saint Gregory of Narek Cathedral, whereas the latter will be an ideal choice to try some of the local specialties.

Holidaymakers who wish to explore Armenia’s sacred places should try visiting Noravank, a 13th-century monastery, known for the beautiful Holy Mother of God Church. If you are into more secular architectural pieces, you can also direct your steps to Gyumri, the second-largest city in Armenia. Here, you can admire the Kumayri Historic District and visit the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri. The fans of history will be also enthralled by Black Fortress.

 

Recommended Road Trips in Armenia

Armenia: road conditions and traffic rules

There are as many as 7,700 km of roads in Armenia. However, they are of varied surfaces and not all of them will ensure you a smooth and pleasant driving experience. Summon up some patience as many road sections are full of bumps and holes.

Armenia is very strict when it comes to drinking and driving. You need to totally refrain from drinking any type of alcohol before hitting the road. When caught, you’ll have to face severe punishments which may result in the suspension of your driver’s licence and imprisonment.

Surprisingly, when it comes to seatbelts, travellers who occupy rear seats aren’t obliged to fasten them. However, it would be advisable to use seatbelts to ensure yourself full safety. The driver and the passenger sitting in the front seats must fasten their seatbelts. Otherwise, you may receive a ticket amounting to 5,000 dram.

Driving and talking on the phone is governed by similar regulations as in other European countries so it’s better to stick to a hands-free set. While driving around the country, you don’t have to use dipped beam at all times. It is necessary only in case of adverse weather conditions. However, you need to remember about appropriate car equipment. You are required to have the following items in your vehicle: a first aid kit, a warning triangle, and a fire extinguisher.

Speed limits in Armenia

The following speed limits have to be observed in Armenia: 40 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h in rural areas, and 110 km/h on highways. Remember that residential areas have their own rules and you shouldn’t drive faster than 20 km/h there.

Even though you won’t receive high fines for speeding in Armenia, the speed of native and foreign vehicles is monitored on a regular basis. The fines can range from 10,000 to up to 32,000 dram. It’s better to stick to the speed limits and follow traffic regulations to avoid dangerous situations and car accidents.

When taking a Road Trip in Armenia

When taking a road trip in Armenia, it's best to plan ahead and take into consideration the following:

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Armenia

The best time to take a road trip in Armenia is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) months when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is picturesque. The roads are also in good condition during these times, making it easier to travel. Avoid taking a road trip during the winter months as snow and icy conditions can make the roads treacherous.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Armenia

Armenia is a relatively affordable destination for road trippers. The cost of a day, week, or month per person on a road trip in Armenia can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of accommodation, food choices, and activities.

Accommodation prices in Armenia range from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. A budget-friendly option could be staying in a guesthouse or hostel, which can cost around 3000-5000 AMD (6-10 USD) per night. Mid-range hotels and Airbnb rentals can cost around 12,000-25,000 AMD (25-50 USD) per night. Luxury hotels can be found in major cities like Yerevan, and they can cost around 50,000-100,000 AMD (100-200 USD) per night.

Food prices in Armenia are relatively affordable, and there are many options to choose from. Local street food such as lavash (a type of Armenian bread) and khorovats (barbequed meat) can cost around 1000-3000 AMD (2-6 USD) per meal. Eating at a mid-range restaurant can cost around 5000-10,000 AMD (10-20 USD) per meal, while a fancy dinner at a high-end restaurant can cost around 15,000-25,000 AMD (30-50 USD) per person.

As for transportation, renting a car in Armenia is relatively cheap, with rates starting at around 10,000 AMD (20 USD) per day. Fuel prices are also affordable, with a liter of gasoline costing around 450-500 AMD (0.90-1 USD).

Entrance fees to tourist attractions in Armenia are usually affordable, with most museums and historical sites charging around 1000-2000 AMD (2-4 USD) per person. However, some attractions may charge higher fees, so it's best to research beforehand.

Overall, road tripping in Armenia can be a relatively affordable experience, with a daily budget of around 20-30 USD per person for accommodation, food, and transportation. Of course, additional costs such as activities and souvenirs should be factored in as well.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Armenia

If you are planning a road trip to Armenia, there are several guidebooks and road maps that can help you navigate the country and discover its many hidden gems. Here are a few recommendations:

No matter which guidebook or road map you choose, be sure to take the time to explore Armenia's stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. With its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and ancient monasteries, Armenia is a truly unforgettable destination for any road tripper.

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