bigtravelbuzzYerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia. It is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. Here are some key aspects and attractions of Yerevan:
Republic Square: Republic Square is the heart of Yerevan and a must-visit attraction. It features stunning architecture, including the iconic Government House and the History Museum of Armenia. The square is especially beautiful in the evenings when the buildings are illuminated.
Cascade Complex: The Cascade is a massive staircase and outdoor art museum that connects downtown Yerevan with the residential neighborhoods. It offers fantastic views of the city and Mount Ararat. Inside the Cascade, you’ll find contemporary art exhibitions and the Cafesjian Center for the Arts.
Vernissage Market: Vernissage is a large open-air market where you can find a wide range of Armenian crafts, souvenirs, artworks, jewelry, and traditional handcrafted items. It’s a great place to shop for unique gifts and immerse yourself in Armenian culture.
Matenadaran: The Matenadaran is a renowned repository of ancient manuscripts and one of the world’s richest depositories of written heritage. It houses a vast collection of historical documents, including illuminated manuscripts, scrolls, and texts from various periods.
Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex: Located on the outskirts of Yerevan, the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex is a poignant and important site dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The complex includes the Armenian Genocide Museum, the eternal flame memorial, and the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Park.
Opera House: The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre is an architectural gem in Yerevan. The Opera House hosts a range of performances, including opera, ballet, classical concerts, and more. Even if you don’t attend a performance, the building itself is worth admiring.
Cafes and Restaurants: Yerevan offers a vibrant culinary scene with numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries. You can sample traditional Armenian cuisine, as well as international dishes. The city is known for its vibrant café culture, where you can enjoy a cup of Armenian coffee or indulge in delicious pastries.
Nightlife: Yerevan has a lively nightlife scene with a wide selection of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive at night, especially on weekends, with locals and tourists enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
These are just a few highlights of what Yerevan has to offer. The city also boasts beautiful parks, museums, art galleries, and a range of cultural events throughout the year. Exploring the city on foot is a great way to discover its hidden gems and immerse yourself in its unique ambiance.
Places to Visit in Yerevan
Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, offers a variety of attractions and landmarks to explore. Here are some notable places to visit in Yerevan:
Republic Square: The central hub of Yerevan, Republic Square is a vibrant public space surrounded by beautiful architectural landmarks, including the Government House, the History Museum of Armenia, and the National Gallery.
Cascade Complex: The Cascade is a massive staircase and outdoor art museum that offers panoramic views of the city. It features contemporary sculptures and hosts various art exhibitions and installations.
Matenadaran: The Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, also known as Matenadaran, is home to a vast collection of Armenian manuscripts, including beautifully illuminated texts and historical documents.
Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex: Located on a hilltop, this memorial complex commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide. It includes the Armenian Genocide Museum, the eternal flame memorial, and the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Park.
Erebuni Fortress: Visit the ruins of Erebuni Fortress, which dates back to 782 BC and marks the founding of Yerevan. Explore the archaeological site, learn about the city’s ancient history, and enjoy the panoramic views from the fortress.
Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute: This museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the Armenian Genocide and its historical significance. It features exhibitions, documents, photographs, and personal stories related to the tragic events.
Yerevan Opera Theater: The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theater is an architectural masterpiece and a cultural symbol of Yerevan. Attend a performance of opera, ballet, or classical music in this stunning venue.
Vernissage Market: Browse through the Vernissage Market, an open-air bazaar offering a wide range of Armenian crafts, souvenirs, traditional artworks, jewelry, carpets, and more. It’s a great place to buy unique gifts and immerse yourself in local culture.
Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Ali, is the only functioning mosque in Yerevan. It features beautiful blue tile work and is open to visitors who want to learn about Armenia’s Muslim community.
Cafes and Restaurants: Yerevan is known for its vibrant culinary scene. Explore the city’s numerous cafes, restaurants, and food markets to sample traditional Armenian dishes, as well as international cuisine.
These are just a few of the many attractions Yerevan has to offer. The city is also home to several parks, museums, art galleries, and historic sites worth exploring. Enjoy wandering through its lively streets and discovering the unique blend of ancient history and modern culture that Yerevan has to offer.
Best Time To Visit Yerevan
The best time to visit Yerevan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. Here’s why:
Spring (April to June): During spring, the weather in Yerevan is pleasant with mild temperatures ranging from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The city comes alive with colorful blooms, and the parks and gardens are at their most vibrant. It’s a great time to explore outdoor attractions, enjoy outdoor cafes, and participate in cultural events.
Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Yerevan is also a wonderful time to visit. The temperatures range from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities. The foliage in and around the city turns beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque setting. Autumn is also a harvest season, and you can indulge in the delicious local produce and wine.
These seasons are considered the shoulder seasons in Yerevan, meaning they fall outside of the peak tourist periods. As a result, you may find fewer crowds, better availability of accommodations, and potentially lower prices compared to the summer months.
Summer (July to August) can be hot in Yerevan, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). However, if you can tolerate the heat, you can still enjoy the city’s attractions and take advantage of the longer daylight hours. Just be prepared for crowded tourist areas and consider staying hydrated and seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Yerevan, with temperatures ranging from around -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F). While the city does experience a winter charm and occasional snowfall, some outdoor attractions may be limited during this time. However, if you enjoy winter activities like skiing, you can head to the nearby Tsaghkadzor ski resort.
Overall, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and pleasant conditions for exploring Yerevan’s attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, and immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
Things to Do in Yerevan
Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in Yerevan:
Explore Republic Square: Start your visit in the heart of Yerevan at Republic Square. Admire the architecture, fountains, and enjoy people-watching. The square often hosts events and concerts.
Visit the Cascade Complex: Climb the grand staircase of the Cascade, an architectural masterpiece. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, explore the outdoor art installations, and visit the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, which houses a collection of contemporary art.
Discover Armenian History: Visit the Matenadaran, a repository of ancient manuscripts, to learn about Armenia’s rich literary and cultural heritage. Explore the History Museum of Armenia to delve into the country’s history, from prehistoric times to the present.
Wander through the Old Town: Take a stroll through Yerevan’s Old Town to experience its charming streets, cafes, and traditional shops. Discover hidden gems, unique boutiques, and local artisans.
Marvel at Religious Sites: Yerevan is home to several beautiful churches and monasteries. Visit the Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, one of the largest Armenian Apostolic churches, and the Blue Mosque, the only functioning mosque in the city.
Enjoy Parks and Gardens: Spend time in Yerevan’s parks and gardens, such as the English Park, Lover’s Park, and the Victory Park. Relax, take a leisurely walk, and enjoy the green spaces.
Visit Museums and Galleries: Explore Yerevan’s diverse museums, including the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, Yerevan History Museum, and the Sergei Parajanov Museum. Discover Armenian art at the National Gallery of Armenia or visit contemporary art galleries.
Sample Armenian Cuisine: Indulge in Armenian cuisine by trying local dishes like dolma, khorovats (barbecue), lavash (traditional bread), and delicious sweets like gata and baklava. Visit local restaurants and cafes to savor the flavors of Armenian cuisine.
Experience the Nightlife: Yerevan has a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, live performances, and dance the night away.
Shop at Vernissage Market: Explore the Vernissage Market, an open-air market offering a variety of traditional Armenian crafts, souvenirs, artworks, jewelry, carpets, and more. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and local handicrafts.
These are just a few of the many things you can do in Yerevan. The city has much more to offer, including cultural events, festivals, and day trips to nearby attractions. Enjoy your time in Yerevan and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Armenia.
How to get around in Yerevan
Getting around in Yerevan is relatively easy, as the city has a well-developed transportation system. Here are the common modes of transportation you can use to navigate Yerevan:
Metro: Yerevan has a metro system with two lines that cover various parts of the city. The metro is efficient, affordable, and a convenient way to travel between different neighborhoods. The stations are marked with a red letter “M” and signs are in both Armenian and English.
Bus: Yerevan has an extensive bus network that serves different areas of the city. Buses are an affordable mode of transportation, but they can get crowded during peak hours. Bus stops are marked with signs displaying the bus numbers and routes.
Minibus (Marshrutka): Marshrutkas are shared minibusses that operate on specific routes. They are a popular mode of transportation in Yerevan and can be identified by their numbers and destinations displayed on the windshield. Marshrutkas can get crowded, but they provide a flexible and affordable way to get around the city.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Yerevan, and they can be hailed on the street or booked through taxi companies or ride-hailing apps. Make sure to negotiate or confirm the fare before getting into the taxi. Some taxis have meters, while others require negotiation for the fare.
Walking: Yerevan is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions and points of interest are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking allows you to explore the streets, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Bicycle: Yerevan is becoming more bike-friendly, and there are bike lanes in some parts of the city. You can rent bicycles from bike-sharing stations or rental shops. Exploring the city by bike can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in parks and open areas.
It’s worth noting that traffic in Yerevan can be busy and congested during peak hours, so plan your travel accordingly. Additionally, be mindful of your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and public transportation.
Overall, the combination of metro, buses, taxis, and walking allows for convenient and efficient transportation within Yerevan. Choose the mode of transportation that suits your preferences and needs, and enjoy exploring the city at your own pace.
Where to eat in Yerevan
Yerevan offers a diverse culinary scene with a range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some popular places to eat in Yerevan:
Cascade Café: Located at the Cascade Complex, this café offers a scenic outdoor seating area with views of the city. It serves a variety of dishes, including Armenian cuisine, sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
Dolmama: Known for its authentic Armenian cuisine, Dolmama offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that features traditional dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves), khorovats (barbecue), and various mezes (appetizers).
Tavern Yerevan: Situated in the heart of the city, Tavern Yerevan offers a mix of traditional Armenian and international dishes. It is known for its cozy interior, live music performances, and a wide selection of wines.
Sherep Restaurant: Sherep is a popular restaurant in Yerevan that specializes in Armenian cuisine. It offers a rustic ambiance, delicious kebabs, traditional stews, and an extensive menu of Armenian dishes.
Lavash Restaurant: Lavash is a restaurant dedicated to celebrating Armenian culinary traditions. It offers a variety of traditional dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its warm atmosphere and live folk music performances.
The Green Bean: A vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant, The Green Bean offers a range of healthy and delicious dishes made with fresh, organic ingredients. It serves salads, sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, and vegan desserts.
Wine Republic: Wine Republic is a wine bar and restaurant that offers an extensive selection of Armenian wines. It also serves a variety of dishes that pair well with wine, including cheese platters, bruschetta, and gourmet pizzas.
Artashi Mot: This traditional Armenian restaurant is known for its rustic atmosphere and authentic cuisine. It offers a wide range of traditional dishes, including homemade bread, barbecue, and traditional stews.
Anteb Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern cuisine, Anteb is a popular choice. It specializes in Armenian and Syrian dishes, serving flavorful kebabs, mezes, falafel, and baklava.
Yerevan Pandok: Yerevan Pandok is a restaurant that offers a combination of Armenian and Georgian cuisine. It serves traditional dishes such as khinkali (dumplings), khachapuri (cheese bread), and various meat and vegetable dishes.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Yerevan. The city is known for its vibrant food culture, so explore different neighborhoods and ask locals for recommendations to discover even more hidden gems and delicious eateries.
Famous street stalls in Yerevan
While Yerevan is known for its diverse culinary scene, street food culture is not as prevalent compared to some other cities. However, there are still a few street stalls and food stands where you can enjoy quick bites and local specialties. Here are a few famous street stalls in Yerevan:
Shawarma Stands: Shawarma is a popular street food in Yerevan, and you can find shawarma stands in various locations throughout the city. These stalls serve freshly prepared wraps filled with marinated meat (such as chicken or beef), vegetables, and sauces.
Gata Stalls: Gata is a traditional Armenian sweet bread that comes in various flavors, including plain, with nuts, or with sweet fillings. You can find gata stalls in Yerevan, particularly in markets and busy areas. These stalls offer freshly baked gata, and it’s a delicious snack to enjoy while exploring the city.
Ice Cream Stands: Yerevan has several ice cream stands scattered around the city, especially in parks and busy streets. These stalls offer a variety of flavors, from traditional options to unique Armenian-inspired flavors. Grab a cone or a cup of ice cream to cool down on a hot day.
Sweets and Nuts Vendors: You’ll often come across street vendors selling an assortment of traditional Armenian sweets and nuts, such as dried fruits, pakhlava (a layered pastry with nuts and honey), and different types of nuts and seeds. These vendors can be found in busy areas, markets, and near popular attractions.
Roasted Corn Stands: During the warmer months, you may find street stalls selling roasted corn on the cob. It’s a popular snack, and you can often see locals enjoying freshly roasted corn while strolling through the city.
While these street stalls may not be as prevalent as in some other cities, they offer a glimpse into Yerevan’s street food scene and provide opportunities to taste some local specialties. Additionally, don’t forget to explore the bustling markets, such as the Vernissage Market, where you can find various food vendors selling fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional Armenian products.
Where to stay in Yerevan
Luxury accommodation
Yerevan offers a range of luxury accommodation options, including upscale hotels and boutique properties. Here are some recommendations for luxury accommodation in Yerevan:
The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel: This five-star hotel is located in the heart of Yerevan and offers luxurious rooms and suites with elegant décor. It features a rooftop pool, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan: Situated in the city center, this hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities. It features a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a casino, and several dining options.
Grand Hotel Yerevan: Located on Republic Square, Grand Hotel Yerevan is a historic property with a blend of classic and contemporary design. It offers well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel: This boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion. It offers individually designed rooms with traditional Armenian touches. The hotel features a courtyard garden, a restaurant serving Armenian cuisine, and a cozy lounge.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Yerevan: Situated near the Republic Square, this upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It features a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a spa, and several dining options, including a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views.
Ararat Hotel: Located in the city center, Ararat Hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with elegant furnishings. The hotel features a rooftop terrace, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international and Armenian cuisine.
Royal Tulip Grand Hotel Yerevan: This five-star hotel is located near the city center and offers spacious rooms and suites with contemporary design. It features a rooftop pool, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
These are just a few examples of luxury accommodation options in Yerevan. Each property offers a combination of comfort, luxury amenities, and convenient locations for exploring the city. Make sure to check the availability, rates, and specific services offered by each hotel to choose the one that best suits your preferences and needs.
Where to stay in Yerevan
Budget accommodation
Yerevan offers a variety of budget accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and affordable hotels. Here are some recommendations for budget accommodation in Yerevan:
Envoy Hostel & Tours: Located in the city center, Envoy Hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at budget-friendly prices. It has a friendly atmosphere, a communal kitchen, and organizes tours and activities for guests.
Kantar Hostel: Situated in the heart of Yerevan, Kantar Hostel provides budget accommodation with dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. It offers free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and a cozy common area.
Yerevan Hostel: Located near Republic Square, Yerevan Hostel offers affordable dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. It features a shared kitchen, a common lounge area, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
Caucasus Hostel: This hostel is situated close to the city center and offers budget-friendly dormitory rooms and private rooms. It provides free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and a comfortable common area.
One Way Hostel: Situated in a convenient location near the city center, One Way Hostel offers affordable dormitory rooms and private rooms. It has a communal kitchen, a cozy lounge area, and organizes social events for guests.
Center Hostel and Tours: Located in the city center, Center Hostel provides budget accommodation with dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. It offers a shared kitchen, a common area, and organizes tours and activities for guests.
City Centre Hotel and Hostel: Situated in the heart of Yerevan, this budget accommodation option offers private rooms and dormitory-style rooms at affordable rates. It features a shared kitchen, a common lounge, and a 24-hour reception.
These are just a few examples of budget accommodation options in Yerevan. It’s advisable to check the availability, rates, and reviews of each property before making a reservation. Additionally, consider the location and proximity to public transportation and attractions to ensure convenience during your stay.
Travel Tips Yerevan
Here are some travel tips for visiting Yerevan:
Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to Armenia. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or an electronic visa in advance.
Currency: The official currency of Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD). It’s recommended to exchange some currency upon arrival, and you can find exchange offices and ATMs throughout the city.
Language: The official language is Armenian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Armenian phrases can still be helpful and appreciated by the locals.
Safety: Yerevan is generally a safe city, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone in unlit or unfamiliar areas at night.
Local Transportation: Yerevan has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, including metro, buses, and minibusses (marshrutkas). Consider using these options to get around the city. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.
Dress Code: Yerevan is a modern and cosmopolitan city, and there is no strict dress code. However, when visiting religious sites, it’s respectful to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
Tap Water: While tap water in Yerevan is generally safe to drink, it’s recommended to drink bottled water for sensitive stomachs or if you prefer. Bottled water is readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores.
Connectivity: Yerevan has good mobile network coverage, and you can easily get a local SIM card with data for internet access. Free Wi-Fi is also available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Etiquette: Armenians are known for their warm hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for good service.
Weather: Yerevan experiences hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant. Pack accordingly, including a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Explore the Cuisine: Yerevan offers a diverse culinary scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Armenian dishes like dolma, khorovats, and lavash. Explore local markets and food stalls for authentic flavors.
Explore Beyond Yerevan: While in Yerevan, consider taking day trips to nearby attractions like Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, and Lake Sevan. Public transportation or guided tours are available for these excursions.
Remember to check the latest travel advisories and plan your itinerary accordingly. Yerevan is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, so take your time to explore and enjoy all it has to offer.