Things to Do in Areni, Armenia

Areni Village in Armenia is a small town located in the Vayots Dzor Province, mostly known for its wine. But foodies, history buffs, and those looking for relaxation will all find plenty to see and do. Here are all of the best things to do in Areni, Armenia!

Where is Areni, Armenia?

Areni Village is located on the fertile bank of the Arpa River, within the Vayots Dzor Province. This village is over two hours driving from Yerevan. If renting a car abroad is not your thing, this town can be visited on an easy (and fun!) Areni day trip.

A Quick History of Areni, Armenia​

According to some, this small town was founded by Noah – as in Noah’s Ark – and his sons, who reportedly planted the first grape vines here. Excavations have revealed human settlements in this area that date back to the Bronze and Iron Ages as well as the Hellenistic Era. 

Among the archaeological findings were also several large clay jars, which were found to be used in wine-making. These jars dated back 6100 years – meaning that Areni’s wine-making practice is one of the oldest in the world (rivaling Georgia’s Sighnaghi, Kakheti region.)

Excavations have proved that Areni as one of the oldest settled territories in the world. It fell under the rule of both the Roman and Persian Empires in its earliest years.

Today, the village is so small, seemingly trapped in a time before ATM’s and supermarkets – and that’s exactly what is so charming about it.

The Best Things to Do in Areni, Armenia

The main reason people visit Areni is to taste the wine. But even if you aren’t a big wine drinker, there are plenty of great things to do in Areni, Armenia. Foodies, history buffs, and those looking to experience small town life will find plenty to see and do here.

So let’s dive in to the best things to do in Areni, Armenia.

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1. Go Wine Tasting

I think it’s a fair statement that most visitors to Areni are planning on trying the wine. After all, as one of the oldest wine-making areas in all of the world, they must have learned somethings along the way – right?

The majority of tourists visit Areni on a day trip. Here are two of the most popular options.

If you plan to stay in the area for longer, or are visiting Areni as part of a larger Armenia road trip, then here are my additional tips:

1. Stay local. I booked a room at this guesthouse and can vouch for an extremely peaceful environment, friendly hosts, and some of the best breakfasts you can imagine. Think local fruits and vegetables and plentiful spreads! You can also walk the small town and find two wineries just down the road.
2. The closest wine testing rooms from that guesthouse are a two minute walk. You will find the Areni Wine Factory and Hin Areni side by side. I observed that most tours visited Areni Wine Factory. When I entered, it was crowded, and nobody had time to serve me a tasting. Next door, Hin Areni was peaceful, had room to breathe, and had some of the most flavorful wines I’ve ever had! And I’ve been to Temecula, Sighnaghi, and Tuscany.

You definitely cannot skip a wine tasting excursion in Areni, Armenia!

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2. Explore Noravank Monastery

Noravank Monastery is an absolute must see when in the Vayots Dzor Region. Heck, I traveled to Vayots Dzor almost specifically to see this monastery! Here is the brief overview, but you can also check out my complete guide to visiting Noravank Monastery.

This 13th-century site sits nestled between brick-red cliffs in a narrow gorge, looking like something straight out of a fairytale. Two churches, intricate gravestone markers, a small chapel, and the ruins of a medieval academy are all found on the monastery’ grounds.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, Noravank Monastery was one of the most prominent religious, political, and cultural sites in all of Armenia. However, before I knew any of that, I was taken by just how picturesque Noravank is.

You will definitely want to explore the Karapet Church, the cemetery and chapel, and – most famous of all – the Surb Astvatsatsin Church. Read all about them here.

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3. Visit the Areni – 1 Cave

If you are traveling to Areni, Armenia, then the Areni-1 cave is a must-see! Excavations began in this cave as recently as 2007, and the objects they’ve found date back to 5000-4000 BCE.

Inside are ancient burial sites, clay pots, and what is known as the oldest leather show in the world (3500 BCE). The conditions of the cave are exceptionally cool and dry, creating the perfect environment to hold these specimens intact. In fact, even food remnants like barley and apricots were found!

But more on point, archaeologists have discovered wine-making equipment that is over 6000 years old. Items such as fermentation vats, a wine press, and storage jars prove that the practice of wine making is much older than we had proof of beforehand.

For the most comprehensive and informative visit, I highly recommend hiring a tour guide. You’ll even get to come face to face with many ancient objects without a sheet of glass separating you!

If you visit solo, ticket prices are 1000 AMD per person (roughly $2 USD). The only drawback of visiting solo is that you won’t fully understand everything you are looking at, as excavations are still taking place today.

4. Experience the Areni Wine Festival

Only those visiting on the first Saturday of October will have the chance to experience this, but if that applies to you then you must attend! Admission is free, but you may want to invest in the special wine glass and coupons that allow you unlimited wines from any participating vendor. It costs 2,500 Armenian dram ( or roughly $5 USD).

Expect something like 20-25 wine vendors that come from wineries and vineyards all over Armenia. Besides endless wine varietals, you can also taste fresh Armenian cheese, flavorful fruits, watch traditional dance performances, and even see how traditional grape-stomping fared.

If you are able to time your trip to overlap the first weekend of October, this is a must see.

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5. Visit the Holy Mother of God Church

Known locally as Surb Astvatsatsin, this small single-nave church dates back to the year 1321. After driving up a short dirt road, you’ll find the church atop a plateau above the the village of Areni.

When I visited, the doors were locked and entry was not possible. I gather this is the normal state of things… but even the outside is worth some exploration!

The doors have intricate carvings that are believed to be made by Momik Vardpet, who is best known for his work at Noravank.

Ancient tombstones are scattered about on the grounds surrounding the church, in a small cemetery. It’s a picturesque spot for this small church and an easy trip from town.

Things to Know About Areni

How much time should I spend in Areni, Armenia?

Between the wineries, the historical sites, and the monasteries, there is quite a lot to see in this small village.

I recommend taking one of the day trips mentioned above, where they jam-pack everything into one full excursion.

Or, stay for two nights in order to have one full day of exploring and two half days on either side.

Are credit cards accepted in Areni?

It depends where you want to use one. Most of the guesthouses in Areni – and in Armenia in general – are cash only. Be sure to bring enough cash to cover your stay, as well as for food, gas, etc.

There are no ATMs in Areni. You will need to drive to the next town in order to take out more money. So I repeat, bring cash. Even more cash than you think you need.

Luckily, at the larger wine rooms like Hin Areni, you will be able to use a credit card. But that is one of the only spots where this is the case.

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When is the best time to visit?

Due to the Wine Festival mentioned above, I highly recommend early October!

If that is not possible, the next best seasons are spring and summer. Summers are hot but the days are long and the veggies are fresh and delicious.

Winter would be potentially tough as the road leading to Noravank Monastery is long and winding. You may not make it if road conditions are bad (i.e., covered in snow.)

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I hope you have a wonderful trip to Areni! It is hands down one of the top places to see in all of Armenia.

Let me know below – which stops are you most interested in?

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