Summer is traditionally a vacation period when people are traveling a lot. However, there are many advantages of traveling in winter if a person looks beyond the weather forecast. If you are considering a winter break or a short Christmas holiday, a 4-day winter trip to Armenia is a fantastic choice.
The tour promises a perfect blend of soaking in the local culture and having snowy fun. Of course, the latest weather changes suggest it’s not always snowy. It’s an even better situation for tourists willing to walk a lot and enjoy the beauty of Yerevan without freezing.
In general, Armenia has a bunch of activities to offer, including skating in Yerevan, skiing in Tsakhkadzor, and trying traditional dishes while taking in the winter views of Sevan.
If you are into short tours with a packed schedule, our itinerary which includes several different spots outside Yerevan is a good fit.
Accommodation in Yerevan
Although there are many hotels in downtown Yerevan, two of them suggested for the 4-day trip have an excellent location.
One of them is Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Yerevan which is a 5-minute walk from the main square. It is a new hotel opened only a couple of years ago that provides easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shopping.
Meanwhile, the Ani Plaza Hotel has a long history as it has been serving tourists for nearly 50 years. Founded in 1970, it used to be called Intourist and was later transformed into one of the finest hotels in Yerevan. Ani Plaza is next to Abovyan, the oldest street in Yerevan, and a 15-minute walk from Republic Square.
Yerevan City Tour
Winter holidays in Yerevan are a delightful experience as the capital city is filled with festive spirit and warmth. It is usually not too snowy in December and those who prefer to make snowmen are better off going to the mountains.
During the city tour, guests visit the landmarks but most importantly they also have time to stroll along the streets to feel the Yerevan vibe.
Christmas lights in Abovyan Street leading to the main square of the city attract tourists and locals who like to walk here in the evening. Several skating rinks with the most popular one opening near the Opera come alive with joyful sounds of laughter and music.
The main square usually boasts the biggest Christmas tree and attractions for kids. Several Christmas fairs add more colors to the festive atmosphere, offering handmade crafts, gifts, and local treats.
The city tour always includes Cascade, another must-see spot which is a museum under the open sky and “a hub” of restaurants and cafes.
The delicious food is another specialty of Yerevan. As the night falls, you can have unforgettable moments at the cozy Yerevan restaurants or cafes that become havens for warmth. Great Armenian cuisine, a cup of herbal tea with local pastry like pakhlava – nothing short of an ideal winter evening.
Tsakhkadzor Skiing Resort
If you are visiting Armenia in winter, it’s impossible to miss a daytrip to the snowy paradise of Tsakhkadzor. The resort town is situated in Kotayk province and is the capital of Armenia’s winter tourism. From December to March the resort town transforms into a winter wonderland attracting hundreds of nature lovers and adrenaline junkies.
The highlight of Tsakhkadzor is a world-class skiing resort. It has a ropeway and slopes offering opportunities for both beginners and seasoned skiers. The breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks come as a bonus. The total length of ski slopes is 30 kilometers. The skiing season normally starts in mid-December and continues up to March.
Skiing, snowboarding or just going up the ropeway to enjoy the scenery are among the beloved tourist activities in winter. In addition, on the way to the slopes, almost everyone stops at Kecharis Monastery, an 11th-century church surrounded by Armenian khachkars (cross-stones).
The town itself stretching amid the mountains has a lot of calm and cozy cafes and restaurants to enjoy your trip. Thus, the journey promises much fun if you are seeking an adrenaline rush or lunch at a mountainside café with panoramic views.
Snowy Peaks of Dilijan and Winter Charm of Sevan
Winter unveils a different side of Armenia. It’s not mere words for anyone who has seen the snow-covered domes of medieval Armenian monasteries.
The first stop is Lake Sevan with its crystal-clear water and snowy peaks of the surrounding mountains. One can seldom see frozen water in Sevan. The weather conditions are unpredictable, sometimes you can experience snowfall on a sunny day.
The tour features a visit to Sevanavank Monastery located on the peninsula which is the best spot to observe the winter stillness of the lake. It is also a perfect place to have a unique photoshoot for your Instagram.
Continuing the winter expedition, the resort town of Dilijan is the next stop. A small town nestled in mountains provides a peaceful retreat. No bustling streets, only you, crisp air, natural beauty, centuries-old monasteries, and great food. This is probably the best description of Dilijan. Dining in one of the dozens of cafes and restaurants offering traditional and European-style dishes adds a touch of comfort to your trip. It is also a good break before going back to Yerevan.
To Sum Up…
With great accommodations and a packed itinerary, this 4-day trip to Armenia promises an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to explore the country: have fun in Yerevan, discover the serene beauty of Sevan and Dilijan, and hit Tsakhkadzor’s ski resort. Plan your winter escape with Levon Travel!