10 Days in Armenia: The Best Places to Visit with “Family-Friendly Itinerary”
Armenia is a magical blend of snow-capped mountains, rich history, and warm hospitality. Our 10-day journey was packed with scenic drives, heritage sites, cozy cafés and restaurants, as well as plenty of kid-approved adventures. Here’s how we spent our days exploring this beautiful country.
View at Reservoir on the way to Khor Virap
We chose Armenia as our next trip adventure because it’s that sweet spot where winter still lingers in the mountains perfect for skiing, and snowy landscapes while spring quietly begins to bloom when we visited in March the valleys was absolutely stunning. It meant we could enjoy the best of both worlds: winter fun in Tsaghkadzor and crisp, sunny sightseeing days in Yerevan and beyond.
Traveling as a family we knew we needed a mix of active days and relaxing moments. Armenia surprised us with how family-friendly it was, offering everything from playful parks and cozy restaurants to breathtaking natural scenery and fascinating history. Every stop felt like a new adventure, and the kids loved being part of the journey just as much as we did.
We landed at Zvartnots International Airport on flight 5W 7219, full of excitement for our Armenian adventure. One thing we quickly learned: it’s highly advisable to book your visa online before arrival. From our own experience, the visa-on-arrival process took us more than four hours of waiting in line, which can be exhausting after a long flight, especially when traveling with kids. Booking online could save you precious time and help you start exploring sooner.
Once we finally cleared immigration, we headed to our home base a spacious 3-bedroom apartment on Mher Mkrtchyan Street, hosted by Hyur Service. The apartment was comfortable and perfectly located for exploring Yerevan.
After settling our luggage, our first stop was lunch at Tavern Yerevan, a famous restaurant known for its authentic Armenian cuisine. We indulged in hearty dishes like khorovats (Armenian barbecue), dolma, and freshly baked lavash straight from the tonir oven. The rich flavors and warm atmosphere made it the perfect first taste of Armenia.
With full stomachs, we stocked up on groceries for the next few days and then took a relaxed stroll through Republic Square. As the evening fell, we were treated to the magical sight of the dancing fountains, a beautiful and vibrant welcome to our first night in Armenia.
Khor Virap Monastery with Mount Ararat View
Our second day in Armenia started bright and early with a homemade breakfast at the apartment — our very first in Armenia. We had arranged for a local driver to take us around, which turned out to be the best decision. Having someone who knows the roads and can communicate easily made the trip far more relaxing and enjoyable. While Armenia is famous for its hospitality, like anywhere in the world, there can be moments when tourists are taken advantage of, so having a trusted driver gave us peace of mind. Our guide also recommended visiting Khor Virap early in the morning to avoid crowds — and he was right. We arrived just in time to admire the stunning view of Mount Ararat in peace, before the busier hours began.
The historical Garni Temple
Our next stop was Garni Temple, a unique pagan temple overlooking breathtaking canyon views. This was easily one of the most remarkable places we’ve ever visited. Hidden within Garni is a small chamber with running spring water, believed to be holy and healing. Drinking from it was a special experience we’ll never forget, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Garni.
From there, we continued to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, carved into the cliffs. Stepping inside felt like traveling back in time — the atmosphere was so sacred and awe-inspiring.
In the afternoon, we explored the dramatic Symphony of Stones, the peaceful Azat Reservoir, and the scenic Charents Arch. We enjoyed a simple family picnic by the river near the Symphony of Stones, where we found a quiet spot to relax and eat our packed lunch. The natural beauty around us was truly mesmerizing — the kids were amazed, and so were we.
By the end of the day, we were all in awe of how much we had seen and experienced in just our second day. Armenia had already given us memories we’ll treasure for a lifetime, and we couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the trip would bring.
💡 Travel Tip:
Start your day very early for Khor Virap to enjoy the best view of Mount Ararat without the crowds.
Hiring a local driver or guide is worth it — they know the roads (which can be tricky in some areas) and help with communication.
Pack a light lunch or snacks if you’re planning to spend time at the Symphony of Stones — there are beautiful riverside spots perfect for a picnic.
Day 3: Adventure & Relaxation in Yerevan
We began our day at St. Gregory The Illuminator Mother Church, one of Yerevan’s grandest landmarks. As a family, we have a tradition of visiting churches and cathedrals in every country we travel to, as a way of praying together and giving thanks for the blessing of traveling safely as a family. St. Gregory’s calm atmosphere, with its grand entrance, beautiful façade, and surrounding trees and flowers, gave us a peaceful moment of reflection.
Right next to the church is Luna Park, where the kids had a fantastic time. It felt both iconic and nostalgic — a place where families have gathered for generations. The rides were simple yet fun, and very affordable, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Of course, no family park visit would be complete without a stop for ice cream, which quickly became a highlight for the children.
In the late afternoon, we headed to the Cascade Complex, one of Yerevan’s most artistic and iconic landmarks. Climbing its massive stairway decorated with open-air sculptures was both exciting and rewarding. At the top, we were treated to sweeping views of the city, with Mount Ararat visible in the distance. Spending a few hours here, we realized it’s also one of the best spots to catch the sunset — an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
We ended the day back at our apartment with a cozy homemade dinner, feeling grateful, relaxed, and ready for our next adventure.
💡 Travel Tip:
If visiting St. Gregory the Illuminator Church, combine it with a quick stop at Luna Park — it’s right next door, perfect for kids.
The Cascade Complex is best visited in the late afternoon so you can enjoy both the city views and the beautiful sunset over Mount Ararat.
Day 4 was one of the most exciting days of our trip — time to head to the mountains! We love experiencing mountain life wherever we travel, so the drive to Tsaghkadzor was something we had been looking forward to. As mentioned earlier, we chose to hire a driver, which made the journey much easier and safer. The road to Tsaghkadzor can be tricky and winding in some parts, but the views along the way were absolutely stunning.
We arrived safely and checked into Villa 5, a cozy and family-friendly spot that instantly felt like home. The kids wasted no time — they were outside playing in the snow and building snowmen as soon as we settled in. To their delight, they even made a new furry friend: a super friendly neighborhood dog that they quickly named Maxxi. After a bit of fun in the snow, we explored the small town, picked up groceries for our stay, and enjoyed a warm, homemade dinner together.
Day 5: Skiing Adventure in Tsaghkadzor
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we headed to the nearby Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort — just a short distance from our villa (even walkable if you don’t mind the cold). We booked a one-day beginner ski lesson for the whole family, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
Here’s a little cautionary note from our experience: while skiing in Tsaghkadzor is absolutely worth it, costs can be a bit confusing. The ticket for the ski slope is not included in the lesson price, meaning each item (equipment rental, lessons, slope access) is charged separately. To avoid surprises, make sure to clarify prices beforehand and, if possible, pay upfront to prevent extra charges. That said, the staff were helpful in guiding us, and once we were geared up, the experience was amazing.
For our very first skiing adventure as a family, it couldn’t have gone better. The kids picked it up quickly, my husband and I gave it our best shot, and together we checked off one of our bucket-list activities.
We had a simple but satisfying lunch at the resort — burgers, fries, and pizza — before heading back to our villa. Amazingly, the kids still had enough energy to play outside with Maxxi and roll in the snow again. It was the perfect end to a day full of new experiences, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
💡 Travel Tip:
Hire a driver for the trip to Tsaghkadzor, as the roads can be steep and tricky.
At the ski resort, clarify all prices before paying — tickets, lessons, and gear rentals are charged separately. Budget a little extra to avoid surprises.
For beginners, a one-day lesson is a great way to get started. Ski instructors are available and patient, even with kids.
Day 6: Dilijan National Park & Lake Sevan – A Birthday to Remember (27 March, Thursday)
This day was extra special — it was my son’s birthday! We decided to celebrate with a nature-meets-history adventure at a relaxed pace, giving us plenty of time to enjoy both the outdoors and Armenia’s hidden gems.
We drove from Tsaghkadzor to Dilijan Lake Park, where we enjoyed a refreshing 45-minute stroll surrounded by fresh mountain air. The park was quiet and peaceful, with activity areas for children. My younger kids loved playing on the climbing racks built between the trees, while we admired the small but beautiful lake. Since we visited just as winter was ending, some areas were still covered in snow, which made the scenery even more enchanting. I learned that Dilijan Lake Park is a favorite spot for local school field trips and family picnics — if you bring a picnic basket, you could easily spend a couple of hours here.
From there, we headed to the Haghartsin Monastery, hidden deep in the forest. This peaceful spot felt like a true hidden gem. Nearby, we stumbled upon a little bakery where they served freshly baked local bread and pastries — warm, soft, and unforgettable. Don’t miss it if you’re visiting Haghartsin!
Next, we drove to Lake Sevan, one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world. We had lunch by the water at Tsovasar Restaurant, a well-known spot for tasting the local specialty — fresh lake fish. The food was simple but flavorful, and dining right by the lake made it even more memorable.
Afterward, we took a leisurely walk along the lake shore. There’s even an option for a boat ride, but as the sun began to set and the air grew colder, we decided to keep it short. Still, the views were breathtaking.
Birthday Surprise:
Since it was my son’s special day, we surprised him with an ATV (quad bike) ride in the nearby town, arranged with the help of our driver. He absolutely loved it — an adventure he’ll always remember. While he enjoyed his ride, we explored the nearby Sevanavank Monastery, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Lake Sevan. The combination of history, nature, and celebration made the day truly unforgettable.
We ended our last evening in Tsaghkadzor with full hearts, amazed once again by the beauty of Armenia. Whether in winter or summer, this town is worth a visit — and for us, it’s a place we’ll definitely return to. Back at the villa, we began packing, ready for the next part of our journey back to Yerevan.
💡 Travel Tip:
Dilijan Lake Park is perfect for families with kids — bring snacks or a picnic basket to enjoy the setting.
At Lake Sevan, try the local fish at Tsovasar Restaurant (or one of the lakeside eateries). Fresh and affordable, it’s a must-try.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, look out for activities like ATV rides near Sevan — they’re a fun and unique way to mark the day.
Day 7: Back to Yerevan
We started our day with breakfast in our cozy Villa 5 in Tsaghkadzor. The kids had one last playtime with Maxxi, the friendly dog they adored, before saying goodbye. Our stay here was one of the highlights of the trip — warm, family-friendly, and memorable.
On our way back to Yerevan, we checked into a spacious 3-bedroom apartment closer to the city center, perfect for families. After settling in, we enjoyed a fun pizza night at Dodo Pizza, then headed back to Luna Park for another round of rides. This time, the park was lit up beautifully in the evening, giving us a whole new atmosphere to enjoy. We ended the night with a peaceful stroll in the park next to the church.
Family Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, staying in an apartment with multiple bedrooms in Yerevan is ideal. It gives everyone space to relax, especially after long road trips.
This was our dedicated fun day! We spent the whole day at Yerevan Park, Armenia’s biggest amusement and theme park. With rides, games, and entertainment, it was the perfect break from history tours and monastery visits. The kids loved the roller coasters, and even we adults had so much fun joining in. Armenia truly has something for everyone, not just culture and sightseeing.
We definitely tried the all the best and scariest ride of all. the themed park has two indoor and outdoor facilities were surely your family and children most of all will enjoy! there were lots of ride for every ages.
My 8yrs old and below were enjoying so much with play areas dedicated for their age this indoor playmats were the best! couldn’t even had imagine if we have managed to finish exploring just this one place. My teen-agers were super independent moving around and exploring outdoor as well as the most exciting part of the roller coasters.
We ended up not notciing the time and closed the themed park as well. It was one of the best themed parks we have ever been. Never to missed when in Armenia with your children or young at hearts.
Family Tip: Book tickets online for Yerevan Park to avoid long queues at the entrance. Bring some snacks and water as kids may get hungry between rides.
Day 9: Sunday Mass & City Strolls
We began our Sunday with a peaceful Sunday Mass, which was a special way to connect spiritually during our travels. Afterward, we walked across Victory Bridge, soaking in the views, then relaxed at the serene Lovers’ Park, a quiet green space perfect for kids to run around.
For lunch, we returned to Burgery — quickly becoming our family’s new favorite spot for burgers. Later in the afternoon, we took one last stroll through Gyumri Park before heading back to pack our bags for the journey home.
Family Tip: Sundays in Yerevan are generally quieter, making it a great day for relaxed strolls and parks. Plan something slow-paced so the kids don’t feel rushed.
Day 10: Goodbye Armenia
Before heading to the airport, did a quick stop at Vernissage Market in Yerevan a treasure trove of souvenirs and local crafts. From handwoven carpets and wooden carvings to intricate jewelry, traditional dolls, and paintings, it’s the perfect place to pick up a piece of Armenia to take home. The kids loved browsing through the colorful stalls, while we enjoyed learning the stories behind their handmade creations.
With bags full of beautiful memories and hearts full of happy moments, we boarded our flight back to Dubai already dreaming about our next Armenia adventure. Armenia truly surprised us with its mix of history, adventure, food, and family friendly activities. We’ll definitely return to experience summer in this beautiful country!
Family Tip: When flying home, keep snacks, coloring books, or small travel games handy for the kids. It helps make the airport wait and flight smoother.
Most Liked to Read
