Things To Do
in Charentsavan

Charentsavan is a picturesque town located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the majestic mountains and is conveniently situated near Yerevan, the capital city. The town has a vibrant community with traditional Armenian architecture and offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy delicious cuisine, and explore nearby historical sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Charentsavan
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Charentsavan Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Tsaghkadzor ski resort for hiking or mountain biking, soaking in the natural beauty of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can taste traditional Armenian dishes and perhaps participate in a cultural event or performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the scenic Lake Sevan, a short drive from Charentsavan, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the views.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the surrounding hills, exploring the trails and enjoying the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Return to Charentsavan for a leisurely stroll through the town center, followed by a casual meal at a café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8-15
Coffee$2
🍺Domestic beer$3
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Night in a hotel$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Proximity to Yerevan for easy day trips.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Armenian speakers.
  • "Բարև" - Hello
  • "Շնորհակալություն" - Thank you
  • "Խնդրում եմ" - Please
  • "Ես սիրում եմ Հայաստան" - I love Armenia
  • "Որտեղ է զ toilettes?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Charentsavan

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Sevan

Famous for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains, it's a perfect spot for landscape photography.

Charentsavan Town Center

The town square features beautiful architecture and local life, ideal for capturing the essence of Armenian culture.

Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort

Known for its breathtaking views, especially during winter, this spot offers dramatic mountain scenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Charentsavan

Charentsavan offers a delightful array of traditional Armenian dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Charentsavan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khash

A traditional Armenian soup made from boiled cow feet, often served with garlic and bread.

Must-Try!

Dolma

Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, and spices, wrapped tightly and cooked to perfection.

Lavash

A thin flatbread that is a staple in Armenian cuisine, often used to wrap various fillings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Charentsavan Food Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, homemade cheeses, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Charentsavan experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can rise above 30°C (86°F), while winter sees lows of -10°C (14°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, with most precipitation occurring in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to make eye contact and smile.

Hospitality

Armenians are known for their hospitality; if offered food or drink, it's customary to accept graciously.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, showing respect for local customs and traditions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Charentsavan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings. In more rural areas, watch for uneven terrain when hiking or walking.

Tipping in Charentsavan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Armenia, with 10% being the standard in restaurants; however, it's always appreciated to round up the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in larger establishments; ATMs are available throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather makes it perfect for visiting beaches at Lake Sevan and enjoying various festivals and events.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create stunning landscapes and a perfect backdrop for photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities at nearby resorts, appealing to winter sports enthusiasts.

Nightlife Guide

Charentsavan at Night

The nightlife in Charentsavan is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. Local cafes and pubs offer a cozy atmosphere for socializing, and you can often find live music or traditional performances. While there are not many nightclubs, the charm of the local bars provides a unique experience to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Charentsavan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sevan National Park Trails

These trails offer a variety of routes around Lake Sevan, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Teghenis Mountain Trails

Located near Tsaghkadzor, these trails range from beginner to advanced levels, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Charentsavan by plane.

Zvartnots International Airport (EVN)

Located approximately 50 km from Charentsavan, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Armenia, offering flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Charentsavan is quite walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are available in many areas, and the town is relatively flat, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some outskirts may require a vehicle for access to more remote locations.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Armenians

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Armenians, who maintain strong cultural traditions and values.

Yezidis

A smaller minority group in the region, the Yezidis have their own unique cultural practices and traditions, contributing to the diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely popular among the locals, with various amateur leagues and youth teams.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is an integral part of Armenian culture, often showcased during festivals and local competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Charentsavan is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation consists mainly of minibuses and taxis, which are affordable but may not run on a strict schedule. It's advisable to check local schedules for longer trips, especially during weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Charentsavan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Armenian dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to check for meat or animal products used in sauces.

Gluten-Free

While traditional bread is common, there are options for gluten-free dishes, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Charentsavan are basic, with a few clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical needs, residents often travel to Yerevan, where larger hospitals are equipped with better facilities. It's advisable for travelers to carry travel insurance and have access to emergency medical services.

Discover Armenia

Read more in our Armenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Armenia Travel Guide