Armenia or Georgia: Which Country Should You Visit First? | Book now!

By, amani

• 12 Views
• 3 Min Read
• (0) Comment

Planning a trip to the South Caucasus but not sure whether to visit Armenia or Georgia first? You’re not alone. Both countries offer breathtaking landscapes, rich histories, and unique cultures—but depending on your travel style and priorities, one might suit you better as your first stop.

Let’s compare the two across key categories to help you decide where to start your Caucasus adventure.

🌆 1. Culture & History

• Armenia: As the first country in the world to adopt Christianity (in 301 AD), Armenia is home to ancient monasteries like Geghard, Tatev, and the UNESCO-listed Haghpat. Its cultural identity is deeply rooted in religion, music, and tradition.

• Georgia: Georgia boasts a unique blend of Orthodox Christianity and centuries-old folklore. The old town of Tbilisi, cave cities like Uplistsikhe, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta reflect a deep historical charm.

🟢 Go first to Armenia if you’re passionate about ancient Christian heritage and spiritual landscapes.
🟢 Choose Georgia first for vibrant cities mixed with old-world charm.

🏞️ 2. Natural Scenery

• Armenia: Often described as a land of rugged mountains, Armenia is perfect for hikers and nature lovers. Lake Sevan, Dilijan National Park, and the Symphony of Stones offer stunning views and peaceful escapes.

• Georgia: From the snow-capped peaks of Kazbegi to the lush valleys of Kakheti and Black Sea beaches in Batumi, Georgia has incredible geographical diversity.

🟢 Visit Georgia first if you want a wider variety of landscapes.
🟢 Visit Armenia first if you prefer a more off-the-beaten-path, mountainous retreat.

🍽️ 3. Food & Cuisine

• Armenia: Armenian cuisine is rich, hearty, and influenced by Persian and Middle Eastern flavors. Don’t miss khorovats (barbecue), dolma, and lavash. Meals are homey and generous, often shared with family and guests.
• Georgia: Georgia is famous for its feasting culture (supras), cheese breads like khachapuri, and flavorful dishes like khinkali (dumplings). Traditional cooking is central to the Georgian experience.

🟢 If you’re a foodie, both countries are fantastic—but Georgia’s culinary scene is more established internationally.
🟢 For a more rustic and homemade experience, Armenia is a great starting point.

💵 4. Budget & Tourism Infrastructure

• Armenia: Generally slightly cheaper, quieter, and less touristy. It’s perfect for those looking for authentic, crowd-free experiences.
• Georgia: More developed for tourism, with better infrastructure, more English speakers, and a wider range of accommodation and tour options.

🟢 Start with Armenia if you prefer a more authentic, less commercialized travel experience.
🟢 Start with Georgia if you want an easier, more accessible trip as a first-time traveler to the region.

✈️ 5. Accessibility & Transportation

• Tbilisi, Georgia is the larger international hub with more direct flight connections and easier travel routes to neighboring countries.
• Yerevan, Armenia is improving rapidly, but transportation between major sites often requires private tours or car rentals.

🟢 If you’re flying from a major city, Georgia is often easier to reach.
🟢 But if you’re starting in the Middle East or want to explore Armenia deeply, it’s a great first stop.

🧳 Final Verdict: So, Which Country Should You Visit First?

It really comes down to your travel priorities:

🌍 Why Not Both?

The best part? You don’t have to choose just one! Armenia and Georgia share a land border, and many travelers easily explore both on the same trip. A week in each gives you a balanced and unforgettable South Caucasus experience.