Welcome to one of the world’s oldest cities and a well-preserved secret. This Yerevan Travel Guide takes you to a place where ancient customs, Soviet-style buildings, and contemporary innovation combine to offer a distinctly engaging experience.
Yerevan Travel Guide
Founded nearly 2,800 years ago, Yerevan stands as the cultural and emotional heart of Armenia. Often called the “Pink City” because of its rose-colored volcanic stone buildings, it offers travelers a rare balance of history and contemporary life. Here, medieval churches stand beside rooftop wine bars, jazz flows through quiet courtyards, and Mount Ararat rises majestically in the distance.
This Travel Guide to Yerevan is designed to help you navigate the city like a local—finding the best food, uncovering hidden neighborhoods, understanding cultural traditions, and traveling responsibly. Yerevan is not a place you simply visit; it is a place you experience through stories, flavors, and genuine human connections.
From bustling Republic Square to quiet hillside monasteries, Yerevan welcomes travelers with warmth, generosity, and pride in its heritage. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, this guide will help you discover why Armenia’s capital leaves such a deep and lasting impression.
Best Time to Visit
1. Late Spring — April to June (Especially May & June)
Best for: pleasant weather, sightseeing, festivals
- Temperatures are mild and comfortable.
- Nature is green and lively.
- Fewer tourists than in peak summer.
- May and June are considered the best overall months.
2. Summer — July & August
Best for: sunshine, outdoor cafés, festivals
- Long sunny days and lively city life.
- Many cultural events and open-air activities.
- Can be very hot, sometimes over 35°C (95°F).
- Not ideal if you dislike heat.
3. Early Autumn — September to Early October
Best for: mild weather, culture, scenery
- Comfortable temperatures return.
- Good for city walks and day trips.
- Independence Day (September 21) brings celebrations.
- Autumn colors add to the atmosphere.
4. Winter — December to February
Best for: quiet travel, winter sports nearby
- Cold weather, snow in the surrounding mountains.
- Fewer tourists and lower prices.
- Good for visiting ski resorts like Tsaghkadzor.
- City sightseeing may be limited by the weather.
Quick Summary
- Best overall months: May, June, September
- Hot but lively: July, August
- Scenic and mild: September–October
- Cold and quiet: December–February
Travel Tips
- Spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather, crowds, and prices.
- In summer, plan activities in the morning or evening to avoid the heat.
- Winter is suitable if you enjoy snow, skiing, and a calmer atmosphere.
In short: The best time to visit Yerevan for most travelers is May–June and September.
Pro Tip: Visit in late September for the annual Wine Festival, when the city turns into an open-air celebration with free tastings and live music.
Travel Difficulty and Recommended Duration
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Recommended Stay: 4–6 Days
Ideal For: Cultural travelers, food lovers, photographers, solo travelers
Yerevan is compact, affordable, and easy to navigate. Most major attractions are walkable, and public transportation is reliable.
Essential Travel Information
Visa Requirements
For Filipinos
Visa-Free Entry: Up to 180 days per year
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
For Other Nationalities
Citizens of many countries, including EU, US, UK, and Australian citizens, as well as citizens of ASEAN nations, may enter visa-free or apply for an e-visa.
Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of your hotel bookings and flight tickets, as immigration officers sometimes request them.
Currency and Budget
Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD)
Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD = 400 AMD
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget Travelers: $40–60
Mid-Range Travelers: $70–120
Comfort Travelers: $150+
Average Costs
Local meal: $5–8
Mid-range restaurant: $15–25
Museum entry: $3–5
Taxi within city: $2–5
Metro ride: $0.25
Language and Communication
Official Language: Armenian
Widely Spoken: Russian, English (especially among younger residents)
Basic Phrases
Hello: Barev Dzez
Thank you: Shnorhakalutyun
Yes: Ayo
No: Voch
How much is this?: Inchqan e?
Offline translation apps are very helpful.
Getting There
By Plane (Most Common Option)
Yerevan is served by Zvartnots International Airport (EVN).
Direct Flights
You can find direct flights from cities such as:
- Moscow
- Dubai
- Doha
- Vienna
- Paris
- Istanbul (via special routes, depending on current regulations)
- Some European and Middle Eastern cities
Connecting Flights
If there is no direct flight from your city, common transfer hubs include:
- Istanbul
- Doha
- Dubai
- Moscow
- Vienna
- Warsaw
After landing, the airport is about 12 km from the city center. You can take a taxi, ride app, or bus.
By Land (From Neighboring Countries)
From Georgia
This is the most popular land route.
From Tbilisi to Yerevan:
- Train: Overnight or daytime train (comfortable and affordable)
- Bus/minibus (marshrutka): Around 5–6 hours
- Taxi: Faster but more expensive
From Iran
You can cross the border by:
Route: Tehran to Yerevan (usually via Meghri border)
From Turkey and Azerbaijan
Borders are currently closed, so direct land travel is not possible.
By Train
You can travel by train mainly from Georgia:
- Tbilisi to Yerevan and vice versa
- Batumi to Yerevan (seasonal) and vice versa
Trains are slow but scenic and inexpensive.
By Car
You can drive to Yerevan from:
- Georgia (open border)
- Iran (open border)
Make sure you have:
- Passport and visa (if required)
- Car insurance valid in Armenia
- Proper border documents
Visa and Entry
Many nationalities can enter Armenia:
- Visa-free
- With a visa on arrival
- Or with an e-visa
Check your country’s requirements before traveling.
If you tell me:
- Your current city/country
- Your budget
- Preferred travel style (fastest, cheapest, scenic)
I can give you the best specific route.
Getting Around
Metro: Clean, affordable, Soviet-era stations
Buses and Marshrutkas: $0.25
Taxi Apps: GG Taxi, Yandex Go
Walking: Best option in the city center
Getting around Yerevan is easy, affordable, and convenient, especially in the city center.
Most visitors walk, since many major sights, cafés, and shops are close together. Downtown areas like Republic Square, Northern Avenue, and Cascade are very walkable.
Public transport includes buses, minibuses, and a small metro system. The metro has one main line, is clean and inexpensive, and connects key areas, including the city center and residential districts. Buses and minibuses cover most parts of the city, though routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Taxis are widely available and inexpensive. Ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go and GG are the most reliable way to get around, offering fixed prices and English-language interfaces.
Car rentals are available but usually unnecessary, as traffic and parking can be difficult in central areas.
For short trips, taxis and walking are the most practical options. For longer distances, the metro and buses work well.
If you plan to explore outside Yerevan, you can take trains or intercity buses, or hire a driver for day trips.
Pro Tip: Always use taxi apps to avoid overcharging.
Top Attractions and Experiences
Five Must-See Landmarks
Republic Square
Republic Square is the central and most iconic public space in Yerevan, surrounded by elegant pink tufa-stone buildings in the Armenian neoclassical style. It houses important landmarks, including the National History Museum, Government House, and major hotels.
In the evenings, visitors gather to watch the famous singing fountains, which put on colorful water-and-light shows. The square is a popular meeting point and starting place for exploring the city. Nearby cafés, shops, and museums make it lively throughout the day.
You can reach Republic Square easily by metro, bus, taxi, or on foot from most central areas.
Cascade Complex
The Cascade Complex is one of Yerevan’s most iconic landmarks, featuring a massive limestone staircase connecting downtown to the Monument neighborhood. It includes fountains, terraces, gardens, and modern art sculptures, many from the Cafesjian Center for the Arts.
Inside, you’ll find galleries, escalators, and exhibitions. At the top, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat on clear days. It’s a popular place for walking, photography, and relaxing at nearby cafés.
You can reach the Cascade easily by walking from Opera Square, taking a taxi, or using nearby bus routes.
Armenian Genocide Memorial (Tsitsernakaberd)
The Armenian Genocide Memorial, known as Tsitsernakaberd, is a powerful and solemn site overlooking Yerevan and Mount Ararat. It honors the 1.5 million Armenians who perished in 1915. The complex includes a tall stele symbolizing national rebirth, twelve stone slabs surrounding an eternal flame, and a peaceful memorial park.
Visitors can walk along tree-lined paths, reflect at the flame, and take in panoramic city views. The adjacent museum presents historical documents and personal stories.
You can reach Tsitsernakaberd by taxi, bus, or a scenic uphill walk from central Yerevan.
Matenadaran Manuscript Museum
The Matenadaran Manuscript Museum in Yerevan is the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, one of the world’s richest collections of medieval and ancient texts. It preserves over 20,000 Armenian and foreign manuscripts, rare books, documents, maps, and beautifully illuminated works spanning religion, science, art, and history.
Highlights include giant and tiny Armenian codices, the Zeytun Gospels, and fascinating miniature paintings. The fortress-like building itself and the statues of Armenian scholars add cultural depth. Guided tours and exhibitions deepen understanding.
Located on Mashtots Avenue, it’s reachable by taxi, bus, or on foot from central Yerevan.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque in Yerevan, also called the Gök Mosque, is an 18th-century Islamic monument and the only active mosque in Armenia. Built during Persian rule, it features a turquoise-tiled dome, a peaceful courtyard, and elegant arches.
Inside, visitors can admire traditional Persian design, calligraphy, and prayer halls. The complex also houses a cultural center and library. Visitors can relax in the garden, learn about Armenian-Iranian history, or attend cultural events.
The mosque is located near Mashtots Avenue in central Yerevan and is easily reached by walking, taxi, or public transport.
Five Hidden Gems
Kond District
Kond District is one of Yerevan’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its narrow winding streets, stone houses, and village-like atmosphere. Located on a hill near the city center, it offers a contrast to modern Yerevan.
Visitors can explore traditional courtyards, small gardens, and historic homes, and enjoy views of Mount Ararat on clear days. Kond is ideal for walking, photography, and experiencing local life.
There are no major landmarks, but its charm lies in everyday scenes and quiet corners. To get there, walk uphill from Republic Square or take a short taxi ride.
Mirzoyan Library
The Mirzoyan Library in Yerevan is a cultural space dedicated to documentary photography, visual storytelling, and contemporary art. Founded by photographer Karen Mirzoyan, it combines a library, an exhibition gallery, a café, and a creative hub.
Visitors can browse photography books, view rotating exhibitions by local and international artists, attend talks and workshops, or relax with coffee in a creative atmosphere. The library also hosts film screenings and cultural events.
It is located near Republic Square in central Yerevan and is easily reached on foot, by taxi, or by public transport, including buses and the metro.
Cafesjian Sculpture Garden
The Cafesjian Sculpture Garden is located at the base of the Cascade Complex in central Yerevan and is one of the city’s most popular open-air attractions. It features large-scale modern sculptures by international artists, set among fountains, flowerbeds, and walking paths.
Visitors can relax on benches, take photos, and enjoy views of Mount Ararat on clear days. The garden connects directly to the Cascade stairs, which lead to art galleries and panoramic viewpoints. It is a lively spot for locals and tourists alike.
You can reach it easily on foot from Republic Square, by metro to Yeritasardakan, or by taxi.
Victory Park at Sunset
Victory Park in Yerevan is especially beautiful at sunset, offering panoramic views of the city and Mount Ararat as the sky turns pink and gold. The park surrounds the towering Mother Armenia statue, a powerful national symbol.
Visitors can walk along quiet paths, relax on benches, and take photos from scenic viewpoints. There is also a small amusement area with nearby rides and cafés. In the evening, locals gather to enjoy the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere.
To get there, take the metro to Barekamutyun Station, then walk uphill, or use a taxi for a short, convenient ride.
Dargett Craft Brewery
Dargett Brewpub in Yerevan’s city center is Armenia’s first and most beloved craft brewery, famous for its wide selection of 20+ handcrafted beers made on-site with high-quality ingredients and modern brewing traditions.
You can enjoy tastings, relaxed pub meals, and a lively atmosphere with stylish interiors, indoor and outdoor seating, and occasional live music. Locals and visitors alike gather here to sample unique ales, IPAs, stouts, and more, often paired with hearty snacks or dinner.
To get there, walk or take a short taxi/ride-hail trip from Republic Square or the city’s core; it’s easy to reach on foot from many downtown spots.
Pro Tip: Explore Kond with a local guide for safety and deeper cultural understanding.
Unique Experiences
Lavash baking workshop: $15
Armenian wine tasting: $20
Duduk music concert: $10
Brandy factory tour: $8
Soviet photography walk: $25
Photography Hotspots
Cascade viewpoint
Republic Square fountains
Lovers’ Park
Kond rooftops
Khor Virap (day trip)
Accommodation Recommendations
Budget ($50–100)
Hotel Nova Yerevan
Nova Hotel Yerevan is a modern boutique hotel located in the central Kentron district, near Republic Square and Sayat-Nova Avenue. Its convenient location allows easy access to major attractions, cafés, and shopping areas.
The hotel offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and minibars. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, spa services, daily breakfast, airport transfers, free parking, and 24-hour reception. Friendly staff and a quiet atmosphere make it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Minotel Barsam Suites
Minotel Barsam Suites is a centrally located 4-star hotel in Yerevan’s Kentron district, steps from Republic Square and major sights. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and modern amenities, along with services including 24-hour reception, dry cleaning, and luggage storage.
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, continental breakfast, and business facilities. The hotel’s convenient position makes walking to local attractions and cafes easy, and airport shuttles are available for added convenience.
Mid-Range ($100–250)
Republica Hotel
Republica Hotel in Yerevan sits just off Republic Square, making it ideal for exploring the city’s main attractions on foot. The modern property offers comfortable rooms with contemporary design, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
Amenities include a restaurant and bar, 24/7 front desk service, and breakfast options. Guests appreciate the central location, easy access to public transport, and proximity to cafés, museums, and shopping, all within a short walking distance.
DoubleTree by Hilton
DoubleTree by Hilton Yerevan City Centre sits in central Yerevan’s Kentron district, about a 10-minute walk from Republic Square and close to major attractions and shops. The upscale hotel offers modern rooms with city and Mount Ararat views, free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant and bar, a fitness centre, a spa, a sauna, and meeting facilities.
Guests enjoy conveniences such as room service, free parking, a business centre, and concierge services. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring Yerevan’s museums, dining, and cultural sites.
Luxury ($250+)
The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Yerevan
The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Yerevan is a luxury hotel in central Yerevan on Abovyan Street, a short walk from Republic Square, opera house, shops, and cafés. It offers elegant, spacious rooms with modern décor and city views.
Facilities include multiple restaurants and bars, an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a full spa with a sauna and wellness treatments. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, room service, valet parking, and concierge services. Stylish and comfortable, it’s ideal for both leisure and business stays in the heart of the city.
Radisson Blu Yerevan
The Radisson Blu Yerevan is a modern, upscale hotel located near the city center, within walking distance of Republic Square and key attractions. It offers spacious, stylish rooms and suites with panoramic views, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a spa, an indoor pool, and business facilities.
Guests enjoy an on-site restaurant and bar, meeting rooms, and excellent service. Its central position makes it ideal for sightseeing, dining, and exploring Yerevan’s cultural highlights.
Alternative Stays
Envoy Hostel: $15–25
Airbnb apartments: $30–80
Local guesthouses in Kond
Pro Tip: Stay in the Kentron district for the best access to attractions.
Food and Dining Guide
Must-Try Dishes
Khorovats
Khorovats is Armenia’s iconic barbecue, made from marinated cubes of pork, beef, lamb, or vegetables grilled over open flames. Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, onions, and sometimes herbs, it’s smoky, juicy, and rich with charred flavor.
Served with flatbread, grilled vegetables, and fresh salads, it’s hearty and satisfying. You can find khorovats at outdoor stalls, local barbecue spots, and traditional restaurants throughout Yerevan.
Dolma
In Yerevan, dolma is a classic Armenian dish of grape leaves (or cabbage) stuffed with seasoned minced meat, rice, herbs, and spices. It’s savory, aromatic, and slightly tangy from the leaves, with a tender, flavorful filling.
The taste blends rich meatiness with fresh herbs and subtle acidity. You can enjoy dolma at traditional Armenian restaurants and taverns across Yerevan, especially in the city center and at local favorites serving home-style cuisine.
Harissa
Harissa is a traditional Armenian porridge of coarsely cracked wheat (or bulgur) that is slow-cooked with stewed chicken or lamb until creamy and rich. It tastes hearty, savory, mildly spiced, with tender meat blending into the velvety wheat. It’s often served warm with butter or broth.
In Yerevan, you’ll find harissa at traditional Armenian restaurants, local home-style eateries, and café-style bistros that specialize in national cuisine around the city center and near Republic Square.
Lavash
Lavash in Yerevan is a traditional Armenian flatbread made from flour, water, and salt, baked thin and soft in a clay tandoor oven. It’s warm, slightly chewy, and has a mild flavor that pairs well with cheese, herbs, meats, or dips.
You’ll find freshly baked lavash at local bakeries, markets, and restaurants throughout the city, especially in food stalls and traditional Armenian eateries. It’s a staple of Armenian meals.
Gata
Gata in Yerevan is a traditional Armenian sweet bread made with flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, often filled with a buttery, cinnamon-sweet streusel called khoriz. It’s rich, slightly flaky, and buttery with a warm, sugary core—comforting and delicious with tea or coffee.
You can find gata in local bakeries, cafes, markets, and at festivals throughout Yerevan, with variations ranging from simple rounds to ornate, stuffed versions.
Restaurant Recommendations
Traditional Armenian
Tavern Yerevan (Amiryan Street)
Warm atmosphere, large portions
$10–18
Sherep (Amiryan Street)
Live cooking stations
$15–25
Modern Armenian
Lavash Restaurant (Tumanyan Street)
Elegant setting, traditional recipes
$12–20
Dolmama (Pushkin Street)
Celebrity favorite, refined cuisine
$20–30
Cafés
Green Bean (Abovyan Street)
Healthy meals, quality coffee
$5–8
Afrolab (Pushkin Street)
Specialty coffee roastery
$4–6
Street Food Safety
Seek out busy shawarma stalls, lahmajoun bakeries, and well-frequented kiosks. Steer clear of locations with low customer turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian: Ankyun, Vostan
Vegan: Dargett, Futuretourism Café
Halal: Arabic restaurants near Mashtots Avenue
Local Culture and Etiquette
Hospitality is deeply valued. Guests are treated generously and respectfully.
Do’s
- Accept food offers
- Dress modestly in churches
- Show respect for history
Don’ts
- Criticize sensitive historical topics
- Refuse hospitality rudely
Tipping
Restaurants: 5–10 percent
Taxis: Optional
Guides: $5–10 per day
Festivals
Wine Festival (September)
Vardavar Water Festival (July)
Independence Day (September 21)
Practical Tips and Safety
Safety
Yerevan is very safe with low crime rates. Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes
Scarf for churches
Sunscreen in summer
Universal power adapter
What to Wear
Casual chic for daily sightseeing
Smart casual for evenings
Conservative clothing for religious sites
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local bakeries
Use public transportation
Buy museum combination tickets
Souvenir Shopping
Popular Souvenirs
- Armenian brandy
- Duduk instruments
- Silver jewelry
- Dried fruits
- Handwoven carpets
Best Places
Vernissage Market
Near Republic Square, best for crafts
Gum Market
Food souvenirs and spices
Flea Markets
- Vernissage (weekends)
- Petak Bazaar
Pro Tip: Bargaining is polite when done respectfully.
Suggested Itineraries
Three-Day Express Itinerary
Day 1
Republic Square
Cascade
Northern Avenue
Dinner at Lavash
Day 2
Genocide Memorial
Matenadaran
Kond District
Wine bar evening
Day 3
Khor Virap
Garni Temple
Geghard Monastery
$40 guided tour
Off-the-Beaten-Path Route (5 Days)
Day 1–2: Yerevan’s hidden districts
Day 3: Dilijan forests
Day 4: Lake Sevan villages
Day 5: Areni wine region
Final Thoughts: Your Journey Starts Here
This Yerevan Travel Guide offers more than just tips and suggestions. It invites you to explore a city defined by resilience, creativity, and warm hospitality. With this guide, you are equipped to discover Armenia’s capital confidently, respectfully, and with curiosity.
Yerevan is a city where strangers become friends, every meal tells a story, and history lives not just in monuments but also in daily life. You will carry with you the warmth of conversations, the sunset’s glow over Mount Ararat, and the comfort of freshly baked lavash long after your trip ends.
If you are searching for a destination that is authentic, affordable, emotionally rich, and culturally profound, Yerevan deserves a place at the top of your travel list.
Bring your curiosity along. Travel ethically. Support local communities. And discover why Armenia’s capital continues to be one of the most unforgettable cities in the world.
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