What Should You Pack for Armenia?
Armenia’s weather varies with the season, so packing layers is essential. In the warmer months, lightweight clothing like short sleeve shirts and dresses are great for exploring cities like Yerevan, but you should bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. In the mountains or highland areas, even during summer, pack warmer layers such as a fleece jacket. A rain jacket is useful for spring and fall due to occasional rain. In the winter, you’ll need a heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and hat, especially if you’re visiting higher altitudes. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for city exploration and hiking.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Explore Yerevan’s Cascade Complex, visit Lake Sevan, and hike in Dilijan National Park.
What to Wear in Armenia
In Armenia, practical and comfortable clothing is ideal for city exploration and outdoor activities. Women and men should dress modestly when visiting religious sites like monasteries, with shoulders and knees covered. Long dresses or skirts for women and pants for men are appropriate for this. For outdoor activities such as hiking in Dilijan National Park or visiting Lake Sevan, sturdy hiking clothes and shoes are necessary. In the evenings, smart-casual outfits are great for dining out or exploring Yerevan’s cafes and nightlife. A light scarf is a versatile accessory, especially for women when visiting churches or for cooler weather.
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Spring
45 – 70°F
(7 – 21°C
)
Summer
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C
)
Fall
45 – 70°F
(7 – 21°C
)
Winter
25 – 45°F
(-4 – 7°C
)
Spring: Cool, some rain
Summer: Warm and sunny, with some thunderstorms
Fall: Mild with cooler evenings and occasional rain
Winter: Cold with snow, especially in the highlands
Spring
2 inches of rain
Summer
1 inch of rain
Fall
2 inches of rain
Winter
3 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for warm days exploring Yerevan or walking through parks like Lovers’ Park.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for layering during cooler evenings or visiting religious sites like Geghard Monastery.
3. Sweater: A warm sweater is essential for the cooler mornings or evenings, especially in the highlands or mountains.
4. Rain Jacket: Important for occasional rain showers in spring and fall, particularly when exploring outdoor areas like Lake Sevan.
5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is ideal for cool evenings in cities like Yerevan or for hiking in national parks.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable, durable pants are great for exploring cities and hiking in Armenia’s rugged landscapes.
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering or wearing under longer tops or dresses for added comfort.
3. Dresses: Modest, long dresses are ideal for visiting religious sites or sightseeing in warm weather.
4. Shorts: Suitable for casual activities, but avoid wearing them at religious sites or in more conservative areas.
5. Skirt: A knee-length skirt works well for casual sightseeing or exploring Yerevan’s cafes.
6. Jumpsuit: A stylish and practical option for evenings out in Yerevan.
7. Tights: Useful for layering during cooler weather or when traveling to higher altitudes.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring cities like Yerevan and hiking in areas like Dilijan National Park.
2. Sandals: Ideal for warm summer days, especially when visiting Lake Sevan or strolling around the city.
3. Swimsuit: A must for swimming in Lake Sevan or visiting the mineral baths in Jermuk.
4. Sunglasses: Important for sun protection while hiking, sightseeing, or enjoying time at Lake Sevan.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is great for sun protection, especially when hiking in open areas or walking through the city.
6. Scarf: A light scarf is perfect for modesty at religious sites and protection against cooler weather in the highlands.
7. Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are necessary for hiking or traveling during colder months.
8. Gloves: Warm gloves are essential in winter, particularly in the highlands or mountainous areas.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips between Yerevan, Lake Sevan, and the mountain regions.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring historical sites like the Temple of Garni.
3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is great for keeping essentials secure while shopping or sightseeing in Yerevan.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering: Armenia’s temperatures vary by region and altitude, so bring layers for both city and outdoor adventures.
- Modesty: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
- Comfortable Shoes: Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for exploring Armenia’s cities and hiking trails.
Armenia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ARMENIA?
May through October is the best time to visit Armenia, with warm weather for exploring the cities and countryside. September’s also great because it’s the perfect time to visit Lake Sevan and enjoy the wine harvest season in the region.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ARMENIA?
Vardavar (July): A water festival where people throw water on each other to celebrate—perfect for families and cultural travelers.
Yerevan Wine Days (May): A wine-tasting festival in the streets of Yerevan, showcasing local Armenian wines—great for wine lovers and solo travelers.
Areni Wine Festival (October): Held in the Areni region, this festival celebrates Armenia’s wine culture with tastings, food, and music—ideal for wine lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Dolma Festival (May): A food festival dedicated to Armenia’s iconic dish, dolma—great for families and foodies.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ARMENIA?
Armenia offers a unique blend of ancient history, beautiful landscapes, and modern culture. Start in Yerevan, where you can visit the Cascade Complex, the Armenian Genocide Memorial, and stroll through Republic Square. One of my favorite places is Lake Sevan, where you can relax by the water, visit Sevanavank Monastery, and enjoy fresh fish from the lake. For nature lovers, the Dilijan National Park offers scenic hikes through lush forests and picturesque villages. Don’t miss a trip to Garni and Geghard Monastery for a blend of natural beauty and ancient history.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ARMENIA?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal to explore Armenia’s highlights, including Yerevan, Lake Sevan, and the mountainous regions. A shorter 5-day trip will give you a good overview of Yerevan and a visit to a couple of cultural sites like Garni and Geghard.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore Yerevan’s Cascade Complex, visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial, and walk around Republic Square. Day 2: Take a day trip to Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery for a mix of history and natural beauty.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, travel to Lake Sevan, visit Sevanavank Monastery, and relax by the water. Day 4: Explore Dilijan National Park, hike through its trails, and visit the Haghartsin Monastery. Day 5: Return to Yerevan for shopping in the Vernissage market and enjoying Armenian cuisine in local restaurants.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, visit the Khor Virap Monastery with its stunning views of Mount Ararat. Day 7: Explore the Areni wine region, visit a local vineyard, and enjoy wine tastings in Armenia’s famous wine-producing area.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, visit the Noravank Monastery, set in a scenic gorge surrounded by cliffs. Day 9: Head to Jermuk, known for its mineral waters and spa treatments. Day 10: Return to Yerevan for a final day of sightseeing and shopping.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, explore the ancient cave dwellings in Khndzoresk. Day 12: Visit the Tatev Monastery, known for its stunning cable car ride. Day 13: Spend time at the hot springs in Jermuk and explore the surrounding nature. Day 14: Return to Yerevan for a final day of sightseeing and dining.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ARMENIA?
2 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
5 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
1 Week
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
10 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Fleece Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
2 Weeks
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Fleece Jacket
- 1 Waterproof Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ARMENIA?
Revealing clothing: Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate for religious sites or rural areas.
High heels: Impractical for Armenia’s uneven terrain, especially when visiting historical sites and hiking.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ARMENIA ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on the season, with higher prices in summer and during festivals.
Accommodation: $40-$150 per night, with options ranging from budget hostels to boutique hotels in Yerevan and other regions.
Transportation: $20-$60 per day for buses, trains, or car rentals, especially for travel to remote areas like Dilijan or Garni.
Meals: $20-$60 per day. Armenian cuisine is affordable, but fine dining in Yerevan will increase the cost.
Activities: $20-$100 depending on entrance fees, guided tours, and outdoor activities like hiking or wine tasting.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ARMENIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not expected in Armenia. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common for good service. For tour guides and drivers, tipping $5-$10 per day is appropriate. In hotels, tipping porters and housekeeping staff $1-$2 per bag or per day is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ARMENIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering your shoulders and knees.
- Currency: Armenia uses the Armenian Dram (AMD), and while credit cards are accepted in major cities, cash is preferred in rural areas.
- Public Transport: Armenia has a reliable system of buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) connecting major cities and tourist sites.
- Weather: Be prepared for varying weather, especially in the mountains where temperatures can drop, even in summer.