Armenia – A Quick & Quirky Guide
Official name: Republic of Armenia (Հայաստանի Հանրապետություն / Hayastani Hanrapetutyun)
Area: ~29,800 km² – mountains, highlands, and scenic valleys
Population: ~2.9 million (2024)
Location: South Caucasus region, bordered by Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iran
Form of government: Parliamentary republic
Head of State: President Vahagn Khachaturyan
Head of Government: Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan
Capital city: Yerevan – ~1.1 million
Time zone: Armenia Time (UTC+4)
Official language: Armenian
Currency: Armenian dram (AMD)
EU member: No
Schengen area: No
Top 10 Largest Cities (population approx.)
- Yerevan – ~1.1 million
- Gyumri – ~120,000
- Vanadzor – ~85,000
- Vagharshapat (Etchmiadzin) – ~55,000
- Hrazdan – ~45,000
- Abovyan – ~40,000
- Kapan – ~35,000
- Ararat – ~30,000
- Gavar – ~25,000
- Sevan – ~20,000
Popular Tourist Cities & Regions
- Yerevan: Republic Square, cafes, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Garni & Geghard: Pagan temple and medieval monastery — history meets nature.
- Lake Sevan: Turquoise waters, beach spots, and mountains.
- Dilijan: “Armenian Switzerland” with forests and hiking trails.
- Khor Virap: Monastery with Mount Ararat views — iconic photo spot.
- Tatev Monastery: Stunning cliffside monastery with the world’s longest cable car.
Climate
Continental highland: hot summers (25–35 °C), cold winters (–5 to 5 °C), sunny most of the year. Great for hiking, sightseeing, and strong Armenian coffee.
Culture & Daily Life
- Ancient heritage: First Christian nation (301 AD) with churches everywhere.
- Music & dance: Traditional folk and modern fusion coexist.
- Friendly locals: Warm, welcoming, and proud of their history.
- Coffee & tea culture: Cafés abound, often paired with homemade sweets.
Food & Drink
- Classic dishes: Khorovats (grilled meat), dolma (stuffed vegetables), lavash (flatbread).
- Desserts: Gata (sweet pastry), sujuk (nut sausage), and seasonal fruits.
- Beverages: Armenian brandy (cognac), local wines, and herbal teas.
- Street food: Quick bites of kebabs, pastries, and fresh bread.
Summary
Armenia is a land of mountains, monasteries, and ancient culture. Yerevan buzzes with modern life, Lake Sevan shines with turquoise waters, and historic monasteries like Tatev and Khor Virap transport visitors through time. Warm hospitality, flavorful cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes make Armenia a small country with a big impression.