First of all, traveling to Armenia, you may find out that Armenian people doesn’t only have pride in their ancient monasteries and beautiful landscapes, but also in their unique shops selling genuine Armenian arts and crafts. There is no place in the country where visitors cannot find souvenirs carrying the spirit of the entire Armenia, from stylish souvenirs sold in open-air markets of Yerevan, to souvenirs sold in small shops in a village. If you are a historian, an art lover or just a person who likes to bring some tokens from different countries Armenia shopping increases the value of your travel even more.

Shopping spree is an activity that should not be missed while in Armenia; local markets and artisan shops are full of life. These are the places where centuries old art is blended with the contemporary design — allowing you to purchase unique items that have deep history. When you are planning to take an Armenia Tour Package, ensure that it will be possible to shop for cultural items so that you will be able to take home a piece of Armenia’s spirit of the country along with your mementos.

Here are Best Things to Buy in the Armenia

1. Armenian Brandy

As well known Armenian cognac (especially Armenia Brandy Company Ararat) is one of the most demanded souvenirs by the tourists. This drink is especially characterized by its creamy texture and a rather profound flavor; it originated in the nineteenth century. Some of the most frequently used tours within Armenia are the Ararat Brandy Factory tour, based in Yerevan, during which travelers can taste different brandies that can be taken in bottle as souvenirs. In short; it could be considered as an Armenian national gift for both wine lovers and those who just enjoy an occasional glass.

2. Handmade Carpets and Rugs

Carpets and rugs are considered to be one of the national symbols of Armenia and they are well known all over the world because of quality and unique ornaments. These are traditional products made from different natural dyes and alpaca wool sourced in the region meaning that none of the rugs is similar to the other. If your Armenia tour intends to visit any rural centers that specialize in arts and crafts production as well as centers that offer sales of handmade products, then it is advisable to carry home an artifact with you. They are not mere floor coverings; they are as good as an heirloom.

3. Armenian Jewelry and Silverware

Armenian jewelries are also amazing and most of them have motifs of ancient scripts, khachkars and others religious signification. Therefore, the presence of semi-precious stones, the exquisite work on the metal as well as the depiction of historical themes makes the pieces to be unique. Besides, if you are walking around the Gold Market in Yerevan or choosing several shops during your Armenia tour, then the Armenian jewelry is a perfect and beautiful gift.

4. Duduk – The Armenian Flute

The duduk, a wind instrument, carved from the apricot wood, is undoubtedly one of the main calling cards of Armenia. It is melodic and beautiful to the extent that even its sound is considered one of the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Amateurs of music take a duduk among the indispensable things that must be purchased during the Armenia tour, especially if the tourist was lucky to hear the duduk playing during the trip.

5. Local Spices and Herbal Teas

The Armenian kitchen is very rich and spicy as far as flavors and herbs are concerned. In markets across the country one can buy various local spices, dried herbs and teas: from thyme, which grows on the mountains, to rosehip and mint, and more. In fact, no Armenia tour is complete without an exquisite taste of Armenian food, and these spices that are sourced from Armenia can be taken home to give a taste of Armenia to your kitchen.

7. Pomegranate-Themed Souvenirs

The pomegranate has always been considered as a symbol of Armenia’s state, it symbolizes fertility, richness, and everlasting life. It can be seen virtually in every aspect of human life from jewelry to fabric, ceramics and magnets in fridges. During Armenia tour people take souvenirs associated with pomegranate as it is considered a symbol of the country. When it is a pendant or a keychain or merely an artwork, it is a cute and sentimental purchase.

8. Armenian Cognac Chocolates

Not just the country’s famous brandy but these chocolates are filled with flavoured with the original Armenian cognac. As souvenirs that can be found in gift shops and grocery stores, they are particularly popular among tourists searching for some novelty foods. Sweets are always an Armenia’s tour’s must-try, and these chocolates can also be brought home to share with others.

Conclusion

Shopping in Armenia appears to go far beyond just buying souvenirs; it is a way for the tourists to be as close to Armenian spirit as possible. Every single thing you purchase represents a tradition of generations, a family, and the artistic heritage of a nation that was created, destroyed, and reborn. Whether it is a bottle of the Armenian brandy that is famous all over the world, a carpet that has been woven to perfection, or a small pomegranate in the shape of which is a symbol of fertility, such souvenirs help you to keep the spirit alive as it would be if the trip lasted.

Therefore, the next time you are planning a tour to Armenia, do not just think about the places, try to visit markets and meet the people, and open yourself to the discoveries. By choosing the right Armenia Tour Package, you can see the beautiful scenes of the country and feel the taste of cultural atmosphere and bring back more than just the photo prints.