The Ultimate Armenia Travel Guide for broke Adventurers

Tucked away in the South Caucasus, Armenia is a treasure trove of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. This off-the-beaten-path destination still remains a secret to so many travelers. As a broke backpacker, you’re in luck! Armenia will give you an incredible travel experience at budget-friendly prices.
From ancient monasteries like Geghard and Garni to the beautiful Dilijan National Park and local delicious traditional cuisine, Armenia has a little something for every kind of traveler. And the best part? It’s pretty dang cheap.
Here, we’ll take you through the best of Armenia on a broke backpacker’s budget. We will give you inside hints and tips about places to stay and transport so it doesn’t make a hole in the pocket, and offer quite a number of delicious and affordable food options.
Free or low-cost attractions and activities, off-the-beaten-path places, other hidden charms—pack your bags, take your hiking boots, and get ready for the beauty and charm of Armenia on a broke budget!

How to get there:

From Georgia:

  • Take a marshrutka (minivan) or bus from Tbilisi to the Armenian-Georgian border ( approx. 4-5 hours, $10-15)
  • Cross the border on foot and take another marshrutka or bus to Yerevan (approx. 4-5 hours, $10-15)

From Azerbaijan:

  • Note: Due to political tensions, the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is closed. However, you can take a detour through Georgia.

From Turkey:

  • Take a bus from Istanbul to the Turkish-Armenian border (approx. 24 hours, $20-30)
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or marshrutka to Yerevan (approx. 4-5 hours, $20-30)

From Iran:

  • Take a bus from Tehran to the Iranian-Armenian border (approx. 20 hours, $15-25)
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or marshrutka to Yerevan (approx. 4-5 hours, $15-25)

when to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
  • Pros:
    • Fewer tourists, making it easier to find affordable accommodations and tours
    • Beautiful blooming flowers and green landscapes
    • Comfortable hiking weather
  • Cons:
    • Some high-altitude attractions might still be closed due to snow
    • Limited festival and event options

Summer (June to August)

  • Weather: Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F)
  • Pros:
    • Warm weather perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
    • Festivals and events like the Yerevan Summer Festival and Vardavar water festival
    • Longer days with up to 16 hours of sunlight
  • Cons:
    • Peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and crowds
    • Can be very hot, especially in urban areas

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
  • Pros:
    • Comfortable hiking weather
    • Beautiful fall foliage
    • Harvest season, with many food festivals and wine tastings
    • Fewer tourists, making it easier to find deals
  • Cons:
    • Some attractions might start to close for the winter

Winter (December to February)

  • Weather: Cold and snowy, with temperatures often below 0°C (32°F)
  • Pros:
    • Skiing and snowboarding opportunities
    • Christmas and New Year’s celebrations
    • Fewer tourists, leading to lower prices
  • Cons:
    • Some attractions and roads might be closed due to snow
    • Very cold weather, requiring warm clothing and gear

Best time for broke backpackers:

  • Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the best balance of comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and affordable prices.
  • If you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, December and January might be the best time for you.

best Itineraries:

4-Day Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Yerevan, explore the city, visit the Cascade Complex and Vernissage Market
  • Day 2: Visit the ancient monasteries of Geghard and Garni, enjoy traditional Armenian cuisine
  • Day 3: Explore the historic city of Etchmiadzin, visit the Zvartnots Cathedral and St. Hripsime Church
  • Day 4: Hike to the top of Mount Aragats, enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape

1-Week Itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Yerevan, visit the National Museum, Opera House, and bustling markets
  • Day 3-4: Visit the ancient monasteries of Geghard, Garni, and Etchmiadzin
  • Day 5: Hike to the top of Mount Aragats, enjoy stunning views
  • Day 6-7: Visit the scenic Dilijan National Park, explore the charming town of Dilijan

2-Week Itinerary:

  • Day 1-3: Explore Yerevan, visit the National Museum, Opera House, and bustling markets
  • Day 4-5: Visit the ancient monasteries of Geghard, Garni, and Etchmiadzin
  • Day 6-7: Hike to the top of Mount Aragats, enjoy stunning views
  • Day 8-9: Visit the scenic Dilijan National Park, explore the charming town of Dilijan
  • Day 10-11: Visit the historic city of Gyumri, explore the Black Fortress and Aslamazyan Museum
  • Day 12-14: Visit the stunning Lake Sevan, enjoy water activities and scenic views

1-Month Itinerary:

  • Week 1: Explore Yerevan, visit the National Museum, Opera House, and bustling markets
  • Week 2: Visit the ancient monasteries of Geghard, Garni, and Etchmiadzin, hike to the top of Mount Aragats
  • Week 3: Visit the scenic Dilijan National Park, explore the charming town of Dilijan, and historic city of Gyumri
  • Week 4: Visit the stunning Lake Sevan, enjoy water activities and scenic views, explore the southern region of Armenia, including the ancient city of Kapan and scenic Tatev Monastery.

Transportation:

Types of Public Transportation

  1. Buses (Marshrutkas)
    • Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes
    • Routes: Cover most cities and towns
    • Fare: 100-500 AMD (approx. $0.20-$1.00 USD)
  2. Trolleybuses
    • Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes
    • Routes: Primarily in Yerevan
    • Fare: 100 AMD (approx. $0.20 USD)
  3. Trains
    • Frequency: Limited, mostly connecting major cities
    • Routes: Yerevan to Gyumri, Vanadzor, and other cities
    • Fare: 1,000-5,000 AMD (approx. $2-$10 USD)
  4. Taxis
    • Fare: Starting from 600 AMD (approx. $1.20 USD)
    • Recommended companies: GG Taxi, Utaxi, and Yerevan Taxi
  5. Minibuses (Microbuses)
    • Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes
    • Routes: Connect smaller towns and villages
    • Fare: 500-1,000 AMD (approx. $1-$2 USD)

Major Routes and Destinations

  1. Yerevan to:
    • Gyumri (train, 3 hours)
    • Vanadzor (train, 4 hours)
    • Etchmiadzin (bus, 30 minutes)
    • Garni (bus, 1 hour)
  2. Regional Routes:
    • Gyumri to Vanadzor (bus, 2 hours)
    • Etchmiadzin to Khor Virap (bus, 1 hour)
    • Dilijan to Sevan (bus, 30 minutes)

Mobile Apps and Resources

  1. Yerevan Transport (iOS, Android): Live bus and trolleybus tracking.
  2. Armenia Travel Guide (iOS, Android): Comprehensive travel information.
  3. Railway Armenia: Train schedules and bookings.

top things to do:

Free Attractions:

  1. Explore Yerevan’s Cascade Complex
  2. Visit the Vernissage Market
  3. Walk through Yerevan’s Opera House Park
  4. Discover the ancient city of Kapan
  5. Hike to the top of Mount Aragats
  6. Visit the Yerevan Botanical Garden
  7. Explore the Yerevan State University campus
  8. Walk along the Hrazdan River
  9. Visit the Matenadaran Museum (free on Sundays)
  10. Explore the Yerevan Flea Market

Cheap Attractions (under $5):

  1. Geghard Monastery (100 AMD / $0.20)
  2. Etchmiadzin Cathedral and Museum (100 AMD / $0.20)
  3. Armenian Genocide Museum (500 AMD / $1)
  4. Dilijan National Park (500 AMD / $1)
  5. Noravank Canyon (500 AMD / $1)
  6. Tatev Monastery (500 AMD / $1)
  7. Sevanavank Monastery (500 AMD / $1)
  8. Khor Virap Monastery (500 AMD / $1)
  9. Amberd Fortress (500 AMD / $1)
  10. Zvartnots Cathedral (500 AMD / $1)

Historical Sites:

  1. Etchmiadzin Cathedral
  2. Geghard Monastery
  3. Khor Virap Monastery
  4. Noravank Canyon
  5. Tatev Monastery
  6. Sevanavank Monastery
  7. Amberd Fortress
  8. Zvartnots Cathedral
  9. Saghmosavank Monastery
  10. Haghpat Monastery

Natural Wonders:

  1. Mount Aragats
  2. Dilijan National Park
  3. Lake Sevan
  4. Noravank Canyon
  5. Tatev Monastery (surrounded by stunning scenery)
  6. Sevanavank Monastery (located on a peninsula)
  7. Hrazdan River
  8. Jermuk Waterfalls
  9. Shaki Waterfalls
  10. Lastiver Cave

Festivals and Events:

  1. Yerevan Summer Festival (free)
  2. Vardavar water festival (free)
  3. Armenian Independence Day (free)
  4. Traditional Armenian folk shows ($5-$10)
  5. Armenian Wine Festival ($10-$20)
  6. Yerevan Jazz Festival ($10-$20)
  7. Armenian Film Festival ($5-$10)
  8. Yerevan Book Festival (free)

Food:

As soon as I got off the plane in Yerevan, Armenia, I knew that I would be in for a real treat in regards to the food. There was an aroma of freshly baked lavash bread and dolma simmering with sauce in the air that tickled my taste buds and put me in a mood for this gastronomic journey.

My first try of Armenian food was from a small restaurant right in the center of Yerevan. I ordered a classic Armenian dish called khinkali-dumplings that arrived steaming hot and full of flavor. The tender meat and spices blended perfectly, leaving me wanting more.

Then comes dolma, which is the famous Armenian meal. Dolma is rice and meat with spices, folded inside grape leaves; this is a lesson in flavor and texture. I enjoyed each of the dolma’s bits, where the grape leaf was sour-sweet and the filling just regular.

Yet, Armenian cuisine is more than a few iconic dishes. I have been introduced to a world of flavors and ingredients-from the sweetness of freshly picked pomegranate fruits through to the earthiness of walnuts, and from the tang of sumac.

One of the most memorable meals for me eaten was at a family restaurant in the countryside. This was followed by a banquet of traditional dishes such as harissa, a chicken and wheat porridge; basturma, a form of cured beef; and gata, a flaky pastry. Every single bite seemed testimony to the love and care that was taken when it was being prepared.

Armenian food is culture and tradition, not just food. There is something holy about mealtime, always filled with laughter, stories, and warmth.

My senses were still replete, upon leaving Armenia, with recollections of innumerable delicious foods being introduced to me, and the flavors, textures, and aromas fresh in my mind called me to return and explore this incredible cuisine further.

Some of my favorite Armenian dishes:

  • Khinkali (dumplings)
  • Dolma (stuffed grape leaves)
  • Harissa (chicken and wheat porridge)
  • Basturma (cured beef)
  • Gata (flaky pastry)
  • Lavash bread
  • Pomegranate juice and wine

Tips for trying Armenian cuisine:

  • Be adventurous and try new dishes
  • Eat at family-run restaurants and cafes for an authentic experience
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or try new things
  • Enjoy the company and conversation that comes with mealtimes in Armenia

accommodations:

Yerevan:

  • Best Hostel: Yerevan Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15)
  • Party Hostel: Envoy Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15) – known for its lively atmosphere and regular events
  • Budget Option: Armenian Family Hostel (dorms from $3, privates from $10)

Dilijan:

  • Best Hostel: Dilijan Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15)
  • Party Hostel: Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex (dorms from $10, privates from $25) – offers live music and cultural events
  • Budget Option: Dilijan Guesthouse (privates from $10)

Gyumri:

  • Best Hostel: Gyumri Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15)
  • Party Hostel: Jazz Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15) – features live jazz music and a lively atmosphere
  • Budget Option: Gyumri Guesthouse (privates from $10)

Tsaghkadzor:

  • Best Hostel: Tsaghkadzor Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15)
  • Party Hostel: Kecharis Hostel (dorms from $10, privates from $25) – offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking in summer
  • Budget Option: Tsaghkadzor Guesthouse (privates from $10)

Sevan:

  • Best Hostel: Sevan Hostel (dorms from $5, privates from $15)
  • Party Hostel: Sevan Beach Hostel (dorms from $10, privates from $25) – features beach parties and water sports
  • Budget Option: Sevan Guesthouse (privates from $10)

Nightlife:

Yerevan:

  • Bars:
    • The Club (cocktails and live music)
    • The Pub (craft beer and sports)
    • Wine Republic (wine and cheese)
    • 007 Bar (cocktails and live music)
    • The Irish Pub (craft beer and sports)
  • Clubs:
    • Kami Club (electronic and dance music)
    • Opera Club (live music and performances)
    • Aragast Cafe Club (jazz and blues)
    • Elite Club (electronic and dance music)
    • Erebuni Club (live music and performances)
  • Party Areas:
    • Northern Avenue (bars, clubs, and restaurants)
    • Cascade Complex (live music and events)
    • Sayat-Nova Avenue (bars, clubs, and restaurants)

Dilijan:

  • Bars:
    • Tufenkian Old Dilijan Complex (live music and cultural events)
    • Dilijan Jazz Club (jazz and blues)
    • Dilijan Wine Factory (wine and cheese)
    • Hovhannes Aivazovsky Bar (cocktails and live music)
  • Clubs:
    • Dilijan Nightclub (electronic and dance music)
    • Getap Wine Club (live music and wine tastings)
  • Party Areas:
    • Sharambeyan Street (bars, restaurants, and shops)
    • Dilijan Resort Area (bars, restaurants, and shops)

Gyumri:

  • Bars:
    • Jazz Hostel (live jazz music)
    • Gyumri Beer Factory (craft beer)
    • Gyumri Wine Factory (wine and cheese)
    • Asparez Bar (cocktails and live music)
  • Clubs:
    • Gyumri Nightclub (electronic and dance music)
    • Art Club (live music and performances)
  • Party Areas:
    • Varpetats Street (bars, restaurants, and shops)
    • Gyumri Resort Area (bars, restaurants, and shops)

Tsaghkadzor:

  • Bars:
    • Kecharis Hotel Bar (cocktails and live music)
    • Tsaghkadzor Beer Factory (craft beer)
    • Tsaghkadzor Wine Factory (wine and cheese)
    • Golden Tulip Bar (cocktails and live music)
  • Clubs:
    • Tsaghkadzor Nightclub (electronic and dance music)
    • Kecharis Nightclub (live music and performances)
  • Party Areas:
    • Tsaghkadzor Resort Area (bars, restaurants, and shops)
    • Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort (bars, restaurants, and shops)

Sevan:

  • Bars:
    • Sevan Beach Bar (cocktails and live music)
    • Sevan Wine Factory (wine and cheese)
    • Sevan Beer Factory (craft beer)
    • Blue Sevan Bar (cocktails and live music)
  • Clubs:
    • Sevan Nightclub (electronic and dance music)
    • Sevan Beach Club (live music and performances)
  • Party Areas:
    • Sevan Beach Area (bars, restaurants, and shops)
    • Sevan Resort Area (bars, restaurants, and shops)

Backpacking Armenia costs:

Daily Budget:

  • Accommodation: $3-5 (hostel dorm or camping)
  • Food: $5-10 (street food, markets, and cooking own meals)
  • Transportation: $2-5 (public transportation, walking, and hitchhiking)
  • Attractions: $5-10 (free or low-cost attractions, hiking, and exploring)
  • Total: $15-30 per day

Weekly Budget:

  • Accommodation: $21-35 (avg. $3-5 per day)
  • Food: $35-70 (avg. $5-10 per day)
  • Transportation: $14-35 (avg. $2-5 per day)
  • Attractions: $35-70 (avg. $5-10 per day)
  • Total: $105-210 per week

For broke backpackers, Armenia is real wealth—precious cultural heritage, amazing natural beauty, and cool nightlife. You can see the best Armenia has to offer by spending $15-30 per day or $105-210 per week on a broke budget. Armenia offers nice hostels at an affordable price, delicious street food, ancient monasteries, and crowded bars with clubs, so there is something for every taste and style.

Bring warmth to Armenian hospitality without cutting your wallet to pieces by following our suggested budget breakdown and saving tips. If you are a repeat backpacker or just starting out, Armenia will be a country that will leave you with awe, lifelong memories, and appreciation for this beautiful country you will carry everywhere.
So pack your bags and grab your camera—time to explore beautiful and magical Armenia on a budget!