Southern Armenia is one of the most fascinating regions in the Caucasus, filled with dramatic mountains, sacred monasteries, and ancient wine culture. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to see, this guide covers the 5 best things to do in Southern Armenia, each offering history, scenery, and authentic local experiences. From Khor Virap to the prehistoric Areni-1 Cave, these highlights capture the true spirit of Armenia’s south.
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1. Khor Virap: Where Armenia’s Christian History Began
The first stop on your Southern Armenia journey should be Khor Virap, one of the most sacred places in the country. Standing on the vast Ararat Plain, this monastery offers one of the most iconic views in all of Armenia, Mount Ararat rising majestically in the distance.
Khor Virap’s history reaches back to the early 4th century CE. According to Armenian tradition, Saint Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned here for 13 years before converting King Tiridates III to Christianity in 301 CE. That act made Armenia the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion.
Visitors can climb down the narrow stone ladder into the underground pit where Gregory was once held. The small chamber feels quiet and powerful, reminding everyone of Armenia’s deep spiritual roots.
Why visit: It combines powerful history with one of the best photographic backdrops in the region.
Travel tip: Come early morning for soft light on Mount Ararat. Clear skies give the best photo conditions.
2. Noravank: The Monastery in the Red Gorge
Next on the list of the 5 best things to do in Southern Armenia is Noravank, a masterpiece of medieval Armenian architecture located in the Vayots Dzor Province. Surrounded by towering red cliffs, this 13th-century monastery complex feels like a natural extension of the rocks around it.
The most famous structure here is the two-storey Church of Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God). Its narrow stone staircase, carved directly into the façade, leads to an upper chapel that offers a beautiful view over the gorge.
Noravank was once a cultural and religious hub supported by local princes. It’s also famous for its intricate carvings by master sculptor Momik, whose khachkars (cross-stones) decorate the site.
Why visit: Striking architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and a setting framed by red cliffs.
Travel tip: Stop at the small café near the parking area to enjoy local honey and tea before continuing toward Areni.
3. Areni Wine Region: Taste Ancient Traditions
No trip to Southern Armenia is complete without tasting its famous wines. The Areni Wine Region is the country’s most celebrated wine area, known for its native Areni Noir grape. Vineyards stretch along mountain slopes at high altitudes, producing wines with strong character and deep color.
Armenians have made wine here for thousands of years. Modern wineries in Areni, such as Hin Areni, Trinity Canyon Vineyards, and Old Bridge Winery, now blend tradition with technology to craft premium-quality bottles. Visitors can tour vineyards, see the fermentation rooms, and taste different varieties paired with local cheese and bread.
Each October, the Areni Wine Festival celebrates the harvest with open-air tastings, music, and folk dances. The event attracts both locals and international visitors who come to enjoy authentic Armenian hospitality.
Why visit: It’s a living link to the world’s oldest winemaking culture.
Travel tip: Buy a few bottles directly from wineries, many sell limited editions unavailable elsewhere.
4. Angels Canyon: Armenia’s Hidden Natural Treasure
For travelers who enjoy hiking and photography, Angels Canyon (Hreshtakneri Dzor) is a spectacular surprise. Located near the village of Dashtakar in Ararat Province, this natural site impresses with its layers of red, yellow, and orange sandstone.
Over centuries, wind and water shaped the canyon into narrow corridors and unusual formations. The 10-kilometer circular trail offers scenic viewpoints perfect for capturing the light as it changes across the rocks.
Unlike other tourist spots, Angels Canyon remains quiet and unspoiled. The silence, broken only by the wind, makes it an ideal stop for anyone seeking solitude in nature.
Why visit: Striking colors, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful photo opportunities.
Travel tip: Bring enough water and start early. There’s little shade, especially during summer months.
5. Areni-1 Cave: The World’s Oldest Winery
The next place on the 5 best things to do in Southern Armenia list is one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in modern times lies near the village of Areni, the Areni-1 Cave. Excavations have revealed the world’s oldest known winery, dating back to around 4100–4000 BCE.
Inside the cave, archaeologists found ancient fermentation vats, wine presses, clay storage jars, and even the oldest leather shoe ever discovered, estimated to be over 5,500 years old. These findings confirm that people in this area were making wine long before the Egyptian pyramids existed.
Visitors can enter part of the cave with a guide to learn about the excavation process and the significance of the findings. Though small, the site offers an extraordinary link between Armenia’s ancient winemaking past and its thriving modern wine industry.
Why visit: It connects archaeology, history, and the story of wine in one place.
Travel tip: Pair this visit with a stop at nearby wineries for a complete cultural experience.
How to Plan Your Trip
All five destinations are easy to reach from Yerevan, making Southern Armenia ideal for a day or weekend trip. Here’s a suggested route:
- Yerevan → Khor Virap: about 45 minutes
- Khor Virap → Noravank: around 1 hour
- Noravank → Areni Wine Region and Areni-1 Cave: 20 minutes
- Areni → Angels Canyon: about 1 hour 30 minutes toward Yerevan
Most travelers rent a car, though Armenic Tours Guided Tours are all available. Roads are paved, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking near monasteries and caves.
Local Food and Hospitality
Armenian hospitality is legendary. In Southern Armenia, every meal feels like a celebration. Try Khorovats (barbecue), Tolma (stuffed grape leaves), and Gata (sweet pastry). Locals often invite guests to share homemade wine or brandy, a gesture of friendship and respect.
Many guesthouses in Areni and Yeghegnadzor serve homemade dishes made with local produce. Staying overnight lets you enjoy slow mornings with mountain views and the taste of freshly baked lavash bread.
Best Time to Visit Southern Armenia
The best months to visit are April to June and September to October. Spring brings green valleys and blooming wildflowers, while autumn colors the vineyards and canyons in warm tones. Summer can be very hot, especially around Angels Canyon, but higher areas near Noravank remain comfortable.
Conclusion
Southern Armenia offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and culture. From the sacred walls of Khor Virap to the prehistoric secrets of Areni-1 Cave, each stop adds a new layer to the story of this ancient land. The 5 best things to do in Southern Armenia include exploring spiritual sites, hiking through colorful canyons, and tasting wines rooted in thousands of years of tradition.
FAQ
How many days do I need to see all five attractions
You can visit all five in one long day, but two days allow more time for wine tasting and photography.
Is Southern Armenia safe for solo travelers
Yes, it’s very safe. Locals are friendly and helpful, even if they speak limited English.
Can I visit these sites year-round
Yes. However, spring and autumn offer the best weather and colors. Winter can bring snow, especially near Noravank.
