Armenia is a dream for photographers, offering ancient monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and hidden corners that feel completely untouched. 

Whether you love capturing sweeping mountain views or the fine details of centuries old stone carvings, the country is full of moments that belong on a camera roll.

This guide highlights the best places to take photos across Armenia and shares tips to help you get the most beautiful captures of every stop.

Getting the Best Pictures of Armenia: Tips & Gear

Before diving into all of the photo spots throughout Armenia, let's talk a bit about what to expect for photography around the country, along with some tips to optimize capturing it at its best.

Is Armenia a Beautiful Country to Capture?

Armenia is an incredibly beautiful and underrated countries. This destination is full of places that look like they were made for photography, from ancient monasteries to hidden mountain viewpoints. 

Whether you are exploring cities, climbing to fortresses, or wandering through quiet valleys, you will find endless angles to capture the beauty of Armenia. This guide highlights the most photogenic locations and helps you plan the best times to visit each one so you can bring home the best pictures of Armenia.

How to Take the Best Pictures of Armenia

When it comes to capturing the beauty of Armenia through pictures, it can take a bit of planning.

Doing a road trip in Armenia is definitely the best option when it comes to getting around the country. This is because it will allow you to visit hidden gems, as well as the highlights at off-peak times when the lighting is better and the crowds are gone.

You'll want to have a tripod with you since a lot of the best times to shoot will be when no one else is around. We also highly recommend bringing a drone, as it is a game-changer for landscape photography!

Here is the gear that we use on a daily basis:

Getting the Best Pictures of Armenia: The Best Photo Spots

Ready to explore the beauty of Armenia through pictures? These are the top places in the country to capture on your camera roll, from historical sites to beautiful landscapes.

Best Places to Get Pictures of Armenia: Monuments & Cultural Sites

Armenia’s monuments are some of the oldest and most impressive in the region, and each site offers its own unique backdrop for photography. Many of these temples, monasteries, and historical structures sit in dramatic locations, surrounded by cliffs, canyons, or sweeping views. 

Arriving early or staying for golden hour will help you avoid crowds and capture monuments at their most beautiful.

1. Zvartnots Cathedral

Zvartnots Cathedral is one of Armenia’s most important historical landmarks, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just 20 minutes west of Yerevan, making it an easy spot to photograph if you're staying in the capital.

Zvartnots Cathedral may be in ruins today, but that is actually what makes it so photogenic. The arches, carved stones, and open layout give you a lot of room to play with different angles. On clear days you can also capture Mount Ararat in the background, which creates some of the most classic pictures of Armenia.

It is best to arrive right when the site opens so you can get clean shots before the tour groups show up.

2. Garni Temple

Garni Temple is Armenia’s only remaining pagan temple, and its perfect symmetry makes it incredibly easy and fun to photograph. The Greco Roman columns pop against the surrounding mountains, especially during golden hour, and will make you feel like you just teleported to Greece.

We came hoping to shoot a quiet sunset, only to find a full music festival taking place. If you visit in summer it is worth checking ahead, because you might end up wanting tickets yourself. Even from above though, it looked truly amazing.

3. Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery is one of the most unique places to photograph in Armenia. Since much of it was carved directly into the mountain, the dark stone walls and narrow chambers create a really striking contrast when the light shines through.

It is close to Garni Temple, so the two spots work well to combine into one trip. Morning is the best time for photos, especially before the crowds arrive.

4. Charent’s Arch

Charent’s Arch is one of the most famous viewpoints in Armenia. The stone arch naturally frames Mount Ararat on clear days, which makes it a very easy spot to capture great photos.

Sunrise and sunset usually give you the best color and visibility, but any clear moment will give you an incredible view. We weren't crazy to visit it in the middle of the day, but ended up really liking the contrast with the shadows.

5. Armenian Alphabet Monument

The Armenian Alphabet Monument is a fun and unusual place to photograph. The giant stone letters are spread across an open hillside with Mount Aragats in the background. You can walk between them and find your own angles, whether you want close ups or wide landscape shots.

It is especially nice in late afternoon when the warm light hits the stones, but it is a good photo stop at any time of day.

6. Amberd Fortress

Amberd Fortress sits high on the slopes of Mount Aragats, and the dramatic setting alone makes it one of the best places to capture pictures of Armenia. The fortress walls stand above a deep canyon, giving you endless angles for wide landscape shots. 

In spring the whole area turns green and fills with wildflowers, while autumn brings warm tones that photograph beautifully against the stone walls. If you want clear, even lighting, mid morning is the best time to visit because the sun lights the fortress without creating heavy shadows.

7. Haghartsin Monastery

Haghartsin Monastery is tucked into the forested mountains near Dilijan, and its hidden, peaceful location makes it a dream to photograph. The monastery looks especially magical when the surrounding hills are covered in mist, and the stone churches blend into the landscape in a way that feels almost fairytale-like. 

Autumn is the most photogenic time to come, when the entire valley turns gold and the trees create a natural frame around the complex.

There is also a nearby waterfall you can check out! We didn't have time, but it definitely seemed worth checking out if you do have some extra time.

8. Noravank Monastery

Noravank Monastery is incredibly photogenic because it sits inside a canyon of bright red rock, which glows beautifully in soft light. The two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church is one of the highlights, especially if you climb up to the narrow balcony for a higher viewpoint of the entire gorge. 

Sunrise and sunset are by far the best times to photograph Noravank because the cliffs turn orange and the whole canyon looks surreal.

9. Khor Virap

Khor Virap is one of the top locations for pictures of Armenia thanks to its unbeatable view of Mount Ararat. The monastery sits on a small hill, perfectly positioned against the mountain, creating that postcard shot everyone wants.

Sunrise is the ideal time to visit because the first light turns Ararat pink and the peak is usually much clearer earlier in the day. Even if clouds roll in, the silhouette of the monastery against the valley is still worth capturing.

If you're visiting in summer, you can also capture some sunflowers nearby!

10. Smbataberd Fortress

Smbataberd Fortress is a lesser known spot, which means you can take your time photographing the ruins without crowds. The hike up is steep but short, and the reward is a panoramic view over the Yeghegis Valley. (You can also drive up, just be warned it's not for the weak).

The stone walls look especially beautiful in late afternoon light when the sun softens the landscape and brings out the texture in the surrounding hills. It is a great place to capture Armenia’s rugged side and the raw beauty of its history.

11. Saghmosavank

Saghmosavank sits right on the edge of the Kasagh Gorge, and the location is what makes it so photogenic. The monastery overlooks a deep canyon that stretches out toward the horizon, giving you dramatic wide angle views with no effort at all.

Sunset is the best time to shoot here because the sun drops directly behind the mountains and lights the gorge in warm, golden tones. It is a great spot to capture pictures of Armenia that show just how wild and open the landscapes can be.

12. Tatev Monastery

Tatev Monastery sits on a cliff above the gorge and photographs beautifully from almost every angle, whether you shoot it wide from across the valley or close from the plateau. 

Late afternoon is the best time for warm light on the stone and soft shadows that bring out the architecture. Combine shots from the cable car and the ridge opposite for a full series of the monastery in its landscape.

13. Sevanavank Monastery

Sevanavank Monastery sits on a hill overlooking the deep blue waters of Lake Sevan, which makes it one of the most scenic spots to capture pictures of Armenia's most iconic body of water. 

The contrast between the dark stone churches and the bright lake creates beautiful compositions from almost every angle. Sunrise is the best time to visit because the light hits the lake softly and the peninsula is still quiet, letting you shoot without crowds.

14. Noratus Cemetery

Noratus Cemetery is famous for its field of khachkars, and the patterns carved into each stone make it incredibly photogenic. The rows of ancient crosses stretch across the hills and look especially striking during golden hour when the carvings catch a golden light. 

Walk deeper into the site for cleaner backgrounds and wider frames that show just how vast the cemetery really is.

Best Places to Get Pictures of Armenia's Nature

Armenia’s landscapes are incredibly diverse, with volcanic mountains, bright green forests, deep gorges, and peaceful lakes that all look stunning on camera. The light changes quickly in the countryside, so sunrise and sunset often create the most impressive conditions for wide shots and nature photography.

If you want pictures of Armenia that truly capture its natural beauty, give yourself time to explore off the main roads and stop whenever the scenery surprises you.

15. Wings of Tatev

The Wings of Tatev cable car is itself a photographic subject and also the best way to capture the vast Vorotan Gorge from above. 

Riding the cable car gives you changing perspectives, so be ready with continuous shooting and a clean window to avoid reflections. Sunset rides are stunning because the canyon and monastery glow as the light drops.

16. Azat Reservoir

Azat Reservoir is one of our favorite places for landscape shots, with turquoise water mirroring the cliffs and sky. Early morning is ideal when the water is glassy and the light is soft, giving you perfect reflections. 

Walk the shoreline and change viewpoints to capture both wide panoramas and tighter detail shots of the water against rock. You can enjoy Azat reservoir from both the bottom and top, and it's less than an hour from Yerevan, making it an excellent day trip.

17. Symphony of Stones

The Symphony of Stones in Garni Gorge feels strikingly impressive because of the tall basalt columns that rise like organ pipes. Mid morning or afternoon light brings out the textures and shadows between the columns, which helps emphasize the geometry. 

Shoot low to include foreground details and try vertical frames to accentuate the column height.

18. Shaki Waterfall

Shaki Waterfall drops into a rocky canyon with multiple streams that split the flow, which makes it excellent for both long exposures and action shots. Spring is the best season when the water volume is strongest and the surrounding fields bloom. If you have a neutral density filter, use it for silky water effects, and use a tripod with long exposure to make sure it's not blurry.

We recommend coming here early in the day when the light is softer, and before the tour group get there. It was probably the most crowded and difficult spots for photos of Armenia's nature!

19. Trchkan Waterfall

Trchkan is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Armenia and it gives you dramatic shots from both the top viewpoint and the base trail. Late spring is prime time when snowmelt increases the flow and the scene feels most dramatic. Bring sturdy shoes and include people in the frame for scale if you want to show the waterfall’s true size.

20. Jermuk Waterfall

Jermuk combines spa town charm with waterfalls and mineral springs, which makes it great for documentary style images and nature shots. 

Morning light often brings mist and steam from the hot springs that adds a dreamy-like layer to photos of the town and waterfalls. Don’t skip the Gallery of Waters if you want close up, human interest shots of local traditions.

21. Tsav Waterfall

Tsav Waterfall is tucked into lush forest and falls into a turquoise pool, giving it a tropical look that stands out in Armenia. Late spring and early summer are the most photogenic months when the foliage is fullest and the pool is deepest. Protect your gear on the muddy approach and look for high vantage points to capture the full cascade.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

22. Vorotan 

Vorotan is a true hidden gem for photographers. It features a picturesque stone bridge, a small natural pool, and basalt columns as a backdrop. You can get really creative with photos all around this area, and you won't have to worry about tons of tourists being around either.

23. Kari Lake

Kari Lake is a high alpine lake tucked near Mount Aragats and the reflections here can be extraordinary when the wind dies down. Dawn is the best time for calm water and clear skies, and you can often catch pockets of snow around the lake even in summer. 

Dress warm, arrive early, and use a tripod for long exposures or perfectly sharp reflection shots. You can also go on a hike or ATV ride to reach a nearby waterfall or other lakes too.

24. Gosh Lake

Gosh Lake is a quiet forest lake near Goshavank that works well for reflective compositions and seasonal color studies. Autumn turns the surrounding trees bright orange and gold and makes the scene even that more beautiful.

Hike the rim for various angles and include shoreline features like logs or rocks to add foreground interest to your shots. Have a drone? You can also get really cool birds-eye shots here!

25. Devil’s Bridge

Devil’s Bridge is a surreal landscape of mineral terraces, clear pools, and small cave systems. It's not only super fun to explore, but it's also incredibly interesting to photograph. The morning light pulls out the color bands in the stone and keeps shadows gentle inside the caves, making it the optimal time to visit. 

Wear good shoes, bring a wide lens, and make sure to have a waterproof pouch for your phone!

26. Goris

Goris has an unusual skyline of carved stone houses and cliffside dwellings that feel almost like Cappadocia, which makes it ideal for landscape photography all around it.

🍷 Best Places to Get Pictures of Armenia: Other Unique Spots

Armenia is full of lesser-known places that deliver beautiful and unexpected photo opportunities. Beyond the famous monasteries and natural wonders, you’ll find quirky architecture, artistic wineries, remote villages, and modern viewpoints that show a different side of the country. 

These unique spots highlight the diversity of Armenia’s landscapes and culture, giving you even more chances to capture pictures of Armenia that feel authentic and memorable.

27. Koskevaz Winery

Voskevaz Winery is one of Armenia’s most distinctive wineries, known for its blend of traditional winemaking and fun architectural style. The complex looks almost like a fairytale village, with stone towers, arches, and artistic details that make it a great place to explore with a camera.

You can tour the cellars, taste local wines made from Armenian grape varieties, and wander through courtyards that feel both historic and charming, creating plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

28. Lost in Sky

Lost in Sky is one of the most beautiful places to capture pictures of Armenia when it comes to unique stays. This mountain hotel is tucked among lush green hills, and its glass cabins blend beautifully into the landscape, giving you endless photo opportunities from both inside and outside the rooms.

The property also features a scenic swing and a hand-shaped platform overlooking the valley, both perfect for those dramatic, wide-angle shots. Mornings are especially photogenic here, when the soft light filters through the trees and the cabins reflect the surrounding greenery. It’s a peaceful escape and one of the most aesthetic places to stay in the country.

You have to stay at Lost in Sky for photos, and it's a bit of a hike, but unique and beautiful nonetheless.

Getting the Best Pictures of Armenia: Final Thoughts & What's Next

There are so many incredible pictures of Armenia that you can capture! From gorgeous monasteries to breathtaking landscapes, this is definitely an underrated country when it comes to photography.

We recommend taking a road trip around Armenia, as this will allow you to capture most of these in the early morning before the crowds and harsh lights hit. While we didn't get the chance to, we'd also recommend spending a night camping out in nature and taking some astrophotography shots. Most places in Armenia have low light pollution, meaning it's easier to get nice shots full of stars in the sky.

We also recommend having a car charger, carrying an extra battery, and giving yourself extra time since there are a lot of surprises waiting to be discovered!

What's Next?

Now that you know all about getting the best pictures of Armenia, you'll probably want to know more details about exploring the country.

Here are a few other travel guides we have about Armenia:

 How to get to Yerevan, Armenia

 Tbilisi to Yerevan train ride

 33 fun things to do in Yerevan

 31 best places to visit in Armenia

 Renting a car in Armenia

 The Ultimate Armenia Road Trip

 Getting around Armenia

We're also going to be publishing new articles each Thursday, so stay tuned!

So are you ready for to take some of the most stunning pictures of Armenia? This country holds so much beauty, and is also a place that hasn't been overrun with other photographers just yet.

Want to learn more about traveling around Armenia? We have new Armenia Travel Guides coming up each Thursday! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you're able to stay up to date with our newest guide, and for special discounts on our shop.

Ready to start planning the most incredible trip to Armenia? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa is ready to help you save time and money, so that you can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy your most amazing trip yet. Want more info? Take a look at our travel planning packages we offer.

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