Vanadzor – A Charming Town
From Gyumri we took a taxi and reached Vanadzor. Nestled amidst the lush green mountains of northern Vanadzor, the city immediately felt calmer and more relaxed than the bustling streets of Yerevan. Cool mountain air, tree-lined avenues, and the gentle sound of flowing water created a peaceful atmosphere that made walking through the city incredibly enjoyable. One of my favorite moments was strolling alongside the beautiful streams that wind through Vanadzor, where locals sat quietly on benches while children played nearby. The combination of nature and city life gives Vanadzor a very distinctive charm.
Vanadzor – A Quiet Stop Along the Silk Route
One of our favourite experiences was simply wandering through the town. Streams flowing beside the roads, quiet public squares and friendly local neighbourhoods gave Vanadzor a welcoming character rarely found in larger cities.
Although not one of the great Silk Route trading centres, the region lay along the wider network of routes linking Persia, Georgia and the Black Sea. Traders, pilgrims and caravans would have passed through these mountain valleys, carrying goods, cultures and ideas across the Caucasus for centuries.
Evening Around Illuminated Fountains
As evening approached, the city slowly transformed into a lively yet elegant destination. The illuminated fountains became the center of activity, drawing families, couples, and visitors together in the cool evening breeze. Watching the colorful water jets dance to the lights while people gathered around enjoying the relaxed atmosphere was a lovely experience. Unlike larger tourist cities, Vanadzor felt authentic and unhurried, allowing me to simply sit back and absorb the rhythm of local life.
Impressive
Soviet-Era Architecture
The main square of Vanadzor reflects the city's Soviet-era architecture blended with modern Armenian life. Walking around the square in the evening, surrounded by cafés, government buildings, and beautifully maintained public spaces, I could sense the quiet pride locals have for their city.
Vanadzor may not always appear on every Armenia itinerary, but its natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and warm atmosphere made it one of the most pleasant and memorable stops of my journey through Armenia.
Saint Mariam
Orthodox Church
St. Astvatsatsin Church
Visiting the St. Astvatsatsin Church in Vanadzor was a peaceful and memorable experience. The beautiful conical dome and striking orange-and-dark tuff stone architecture make the church stand out prominently in the city. Rebuilt after the earthquake of the late 19th century, the church symbolizes the resilience and deep spiritual heritage of the Armenian people. The quiet interiors and serene atmosphere offered a wonderful moment of reflection during my stay in Vanadzor.
Vanadzor to Dilijan
Our Second Trip • Sometimes the Journey is the Destination
A day trip from Vanadzor to Dilijan is well worth it, with the short journey winding through beautiful mountain scenery and dense forests before reaching one of northern Armenia's most charming towns. We chose to travel by local bus to experience everyday life, but the ride was cramped and uncomfortable, and to our surprise the bus even broke down along the way.
While waiting, we wandered beside the road, photographing delicate wildflowers that would have gone unnoticed had we been travelling in a taxi. In hindsight, a taxi would certainly have offered greater comfort and flexibility, but then we would have missed one of the journey's most unexpected and memorable moments. Such are the delightful contradictions of travel.
Sea Of WildFlowers
The roadside was covered with wildflowers. Bright yellow St. John's Wort, tall purple larkspur, and soft pink blooms added so much color against the green forests and rocky hills. While the driver worked on the bus, we wandered around, took countless photographs, and simply enjoyed the fresh mountain air filled with the scent of pine and wild thyme.
Looking back, that unexpected stop became a memorable experiences. Sometimes the best moments are the ones you never plan for.
Enjoying Pide
Enjoying a boat-shaped flatbread called Pide (specifically a spinach and vegetable variant), a popular dish in the Caucasus region that is closely related to Georgian Khachapuri.
Simple, fresh and incredibly satisfying — one of the most enjoyable meals we had during our stay in Vanadzor.
Farewell Armenia
As we now take our flight from Yerevan to Tbilisi, I leave Armenia with deep admiration for its brave and resilient people. Surrounded by powerful neighbours and shaped by a difficult history, Armenia has remarkably preserved its rich culture, traditions, faith, and identity.
It is a beautiful country blessed with warm-hearted people, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique sense of history. Every destination we visited offered something special, making the journey both meaningful and unforgettable. I especially enjoyed my time in Gyumri and Vanadzor, where the charm of local life, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere made the experience truly memorable.
Armenia is a country we leave behind with gratitude — and one we hope to return to someday.
Navigate the Caravan Route
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