Spring (April–June) is the best time to visit. The countryside is green, wildflowers cover the mountain slopes, and temperatures are mild. Apricot blossom — the fruit is deeply connected to Armenian identity — comes in April. It is the most comfortable season for hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (July–August) is hot and dry in Yerevan and the Ararat valley, where temperatures regularly exceed 35°C. The city empties somewhat as people head to the mountains, Lake Sevan, and hill towns like Dilijan and Tsaghkadzor. This is the peak tourist season, particularly in August when the Armenian diaspora returns in large numbers. Lake Sevan is at its most popular. Book ahead in Yerevan if travelling in summer.
Autumn (September–October) is another excellent time. Harvest season brings ripe grapes, figs, pomegranates, and walnuts. The Areni Wine Festival takes place on the first weekend of October in the village of Areni in Vayots Dzor — a good reason to plan around it. Temperatures are comfortable and the light is golden.
Winter (November–March) is cold, particularly in the north and at altitude. Yerevan is manageable, but roads to mountain monasteries may be snow-blocked. Tsaghkadzor operates as a ski resort with reasonable slopes. If you're visiting mainly for Yerevan's food and café culture, winter is fine — flights and hotels are significantly cheaper.
The main religious holidays — Easter, the Feast of the Assumption (Vartavar, a water festival in late July), and Christmas on January 6 — are worth knowing about if you want to experience traditional celebrations or need to plan around closures.