yerevan tourist destinations

• Partner with Us
• Made in Armenia
• Gegharkunik
• Vayots Dzor
• Cultural Heritage
• Food & Drink
• Itineraries & Road Trips
• Nature Activities
• Practical Information
• Soviet Armenia
• Things To Do
• What to Pack
• Where to Stay
• Learn Armenian

Yerevan , Things To Do

49 fabulous and impressive things to do in yerevan, armenia.

If you’re planning a trip to Yerevan and are wondering what to do- don’t worry, we have you covered! There are many things to do in Yerevan and must-do Yerevan experiences that will fulfill all types of travel tastes.

If youʻre booking your trip to Yerevan  last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

🇦🇲  Top Experiences and Tours in/from Yerevan:

• Day Trip to Khorvirap, Noravank, and Areni Winery (top-rated day tour from Yerevan!)
• Garni Temple & Geghard Tour with Lavash Baking Day tour (also popular day tour!)
• Tsaghkadzor & Lake Sevan Guided Tour (wonderful nature tour from Yerevan!)
• Private Walking Food Tour with 6 Tastings (recommended food tour in Yerevan!)

🛌  Top Hotels in Yerevan:

• The Alexander   (luxury option + SPA, authentic dining venues, indoor pool!)
• Daniel’s Boutique Hotel (mid-range in excellent location!)
• 14th Floor (in the center with a wonderful view of Mount Ararat!)
• Grand Hostel (budget option in Yerevan!)

🚗  Looking for the best way to get around Armenia? Click here to check rental car rates for Armenia!

This guide tells you our tips for what to do in Yerevan ranging from top restaurants to day trips including free things to do in Yerevan and more.

Please let us know if there are any secret or interesting sights in Yerevan that you think we missed on this list!  Thanks!

What to Do in Yerevan

If you are thinking of visiting the capital of Armenia , know that the city is waiting for you and will always welcome you. Yerevan is an ancient city more than 2,800 years old, even older than Rome.

It has a complicated and dramatic history but also has hospitable people who are the treasure of the city and will help discover many fascinating things to do in Yerevan .

Built from the volcanic pink stone tuff, Yerevan is the creation of the dreamer Alexander Tamanyan, who designed modern Yerevan at the beginning of the 20th century.

He created a unique city concept with mixtures of bohemian and modernist styles.

Yerevan is a very comfortable and walkable city and one of those unique cities that has a beautiful green gorge with a river running through the city center.

Many things can be said about Yerevan and why it is one of the most beautiful cities to us, but in this guide, we want to specifically showcase the things to see in Yerevan that we love and think everyone should visit.

If you’re simply keen to take a tour of Yerevan city, here are some top-recommended tours we encourage taking!

Best Yerevan City Tours

• Yerevan: Private City Tour
• Yerevan: Private City Tour with Carpet Museum Workshop
• Armenian Craft Workshop
• Yerevan: City Tour with Brandy Tasting and Carpet Weaving

Cultural and Historical Places to Visit in Yerevan

1. yerevan cascade complex.

Yerevan has several must-see places, but the Cascade Complex is perhaps the most superb and memorable one. It is an architectural masterpiece that occupies a large part of Yerevan’s center and is a great opportunity for travelers who are looking for free things to do in Yerevan.

This must-see Yerevan attraction was designed by the legendary Armenian architect Alexander Tamanyan , who was the main architect of Yerevan city.

Although he designed it, the Yerevan Cascade Complex was built after Tamanyan’s death in the 1970s and over time became one of the main places to visit in Yerevan.

Erected from limestone, this mesmerizing monument is a one-of-a-kind structure that is basically an enormous staircase.

It connects northern Yerevan to the center in a very unique way. The Yerevan Cascades has several levels and each level has a different look and design to it.

Another great thing about the Cascades is that you can find some of the best Yerevan coffee shops close by!

The Cascade Complex allows its guests to see Yerevan from one of the highest points from its 572 stairs, where the pink city shines under the Ararat mountains.

In 2002, the businessman and philanthropist Gerard Leon Cafesjian started to renovate the historical monument and establish the Cafesjian Center for the Arts .

The Center presents modern and contemporary art on each level of the structure on both the inside and outside of the Cascade.

Also, many concerts and cultural events take place in the complex’s main yard.

On the left side of the complex, there is an entrance where visitors can take an escalator to ride to the top and enjoy the different levels of artwork on the way up.

The Cascade Complex’s main garden is surrounded by many beautiful cafes and restaurants, where both guests and locals enjoy the time under the trees and lights.

Address: 10 Tamanyan St, Yerevan 0009

Working hours: Friday-Sunday  8:00 – 20:00. Closed Mondays-Thursdays.

Ticket fee: free

Insider Tip:  Yerevan has copious amounts of renowned architecture and the Cascades is merely one structure that is marvelous. If you’re interested in Soviet architecture in Armenia and beyond, check out this coffee table book by Frédéric Chaubin that showcases a variety from around the world (Megan owns this!)

2. Ararat Brandy (Cognac) Factory

Another top thing to do in Yerevan is to visit the legendary Ararat Brandy Factory which is a perfect place to try one of the world’s best Armenian brandy/cognac.

The beloved Armenian cognac of Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin was established at the end of the 19th century and has since become one of the must-see places for Armenian alcohol making.

To learn about, have a tasting, and take a historical tour in the Ararat Brandy Factory , it is necessary to register on their website or make an appointment by calling them.

The tour involves a walk through the factory, a brandy tasting, a guide on how to drink it, and interesting and historical information about the brand.

After the tour, you can also buy Armenian brandy right on the spot. The Ararat Brandy Factory is located right next to the Victory Bridge at the entrance of the city.

Address: 2 Admiral Isakov Ave, Yerevan 0082

Working hours: Monday – Saturday  9:00 – 18:00. Closed on Sundays.

Insider Tip:   There are many awesome ways to experience Armenian cognac but we suggest enjoying it with a traditional Armenian crayfish party!  This Armenian cognac-tasting experience will allow you to do just that! 

3. Yerevan Noy Wine Brandy Vodka Factory

Erected in the Erivan Fortress area, Yerevan Noy Wine Brandy Vodka Factory is a truly historical monument, built on the edge of Hrazdan Gorge.

The capacity of the 125-year-old fortress factory is very large since it goes many floors underground.

Each underground floor contains different old barrels filled with wine and brandy and historical alcohol-producing equipment. This amazing facility with a rich history is open 6 days a week to welcome groups of tourists and show them the secret corners of the old factory.

The guests will see, touch, and taste the alcohol at the end of the tour in a special celebration room.

Address: 9 Argishti St, Yerevan 0015

Working hours: Monday-Saturday  19:00 – 18:00. Closed Sundays.

4. Yerevan Opera Theatre

One of the most beautiful and astonishing monuments in Yerevan is the Opera Theatre .

This architectural gem is located at the center of Yerevan. The creator of Yerevan, architect Alexander Tamanian, came up with an unusual design for this modern architectural masterpiece.

The building process took place in the ’30s and ’60s and in 1980 was finalized with reconstruction. There are two halls in the Opera house: the theatre and the philharmonic society hall.

Besides its marvelous architecture, the Opera is surrounded by many lovely trees and cafes.

The statue of legendary composer Aram Khachaturian stands next to the main entrance of the concert hall, which is named after the maestro.

Address: Tumanyan St, Yerevan

The theatre capacity: 1,260 people

The philharmonic society hall capacity: 1,400 people

5. Tsitsernakaberd (Genocide Memorial)

Built in 1967, the Memorial Complex of Tsitsernakaberd is a monument dedicated in the memory of the Armenian Genocide. In 1915, the Turkish government began a massacre of 1.5 million Armenians living in Western Armenia, nowadays known as Turkey.

The complex has an original architectural design and is considered an important site and an architectural masterpiece of Yerevan. It is located on a beautiful hill on the other side of Hrazdan Gorge from Yerevan center, surrounded by many trees.

The complex measures 4,500 square meters. This space includes a genocide museum and a garden where the leaders of different countries have planted trees in memory of the victims.

Address: Tsitsernakaberd Hill

Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday  11:00 – 16:00. Closed Mondays.

Insider Tip:   If you’re keen to know more about the history of the Armenian Genocide and its impact around the world, this tour will take you there , along with other places locally, with an experienced guide. 

6. Mother Armenia

The statue of Mother Armenia is the biggest and one of the most recognizable statues in Yerevan and symbolizes the country as a body and soul of a strong Armenian woman.

Located on the top of a hill in Victory Park , the monument came to replace the statue of Joseph Stalin in 1967.

Stalin’s statue was erected in 1950 after his death and was removed in 1962.

Designed by sculptor Ara Harutyunyan , Mother Armenia symbolizes peace through strength. She holds a covered sword in her hands and a shield next to her legs as the protector of peace and harmony.

The statue is situated on a beautiful pedestal designed by architect R. Israyelyan which displays traditional Armenian symbols and architectural elements.

The height of Mother Armenia and the pedestal is approximately 51 meters, which makes it very visible from different parts of Yerevan. From afar, the Mother Armenia statue looks like the protective guardian of Yerevan.

Address: Azatutyan Avenue, area 2

7. The Erebuni Museum

The Erebuni Historical & Archeological Culture Preserve  takes you back in time to the origins of this ancient city.

Founded in 1968, the Erebuni Museum is not the nearest place to see in Yerevan center but its an absolute archeological gem that showcases three amazing historical sites: Arin Berd, Karmir Blur, and Shengavit .

King Argishti , who founded Erebuni (also named Arin Berd) in 785–753 B.C., established the fortified city on top of a hill during the time of the  ancient and powerful Kingdom of Urartu .

Address: 38 Erebuni St, Yerevan 0020

Working hours: Tuesday-Sunday  10:00 – 16:30. Closed Mondays.

Ticket fee: 1000 AMD

8. Blue Mosque

The only operating mosque in Armenia, the beautiful Blue Mosque is a quiet and harmonious place located in the center of Yerevan.

The 18th-century Shia Mosque was closed down during the Soviet era and reopened in the ’90s with funding from the Iranian government. The gorgeous garden surrounded by amazing, colorful architecture is a well-loved place to visit for locals and tourists alike.

Address: 12 Mesrop Mashtots Ave, Yerevan 0015

Working hours: Daily 10 am-1 pm,  Daily 3 pm-6 pm

9. Matenadaran

Another fascinating place to visit in Yerevan is a unique museum called the Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, mostly known as Matenadaran .

This church of ancient manuscripts is considered one of the rarest museums in the world and is the pride of Armenia. Built between 1945 and 1958, architect Mark Grigorian was inspired by Armenian medieval architecture.

The collection in Matenadaran is a mind-blowing 23,000 manuscripts and scrolls and is the biggest manuscript collection in the world.

From the world’s biggest book to the world’s smallest book , Matenadaran contains a wide variety of manuscripts, even some from civilizations that no longer exist nowadays.

Address: 53 Mesrop Mashtots Ave

Working hours: Tuesday -Saturday  10:00 – 16.30. Closed Mondays and Sundays.

Ticket fee: 1500 AMD

Insider Tip:   There is so much history that is challenging to learn by strolling yourself through Yerevan. This half-day tour of Yerevan will guide you through and take you to Matenadaran and more!

10. The National Gallery of Armenia

One of the biggest museums in Yerevan is the National Gallery of Armenia , located right in the heart of the capital Republic Square. Founded in 1921, Alexander Tamanyan’s architectural masterpiece contains 26,000 works of art and has 56 galleries and halls .

The collection and capacity of the National Gallery of Armenia increased after the donation of more than 400 Armenian, Russian, and European pieces from Moscow in 1925.

This museum is a must-see for anyone who wants to learn about Armenian culture .

Working hours: Tuesday-Saturday-11:00-17:30. Sundays from 11:00-16:30. Closed Mondays.

Insider Tip:   If you’re keen to visit museums in Yerevan and have discounts at several restaurants and cafes in the city, definitely invest in the Yerevan Card! This city pass will grant you FREE access to most of the city’s museums, including the National Gallery, and you’ll be able to save quite a bit of money at the same time.

11. Republic Square and Singing Fountains

Republic Square is one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan in the heart of the beautiful capital city, connecting one part of the center to the other. The shape of Republic Square is similar to the unique round design of Yerevan’s city center, formed by five masterpiece buildings.

The National Art Gallery and History Museum of Armenia are the jewels of ancient Armenian history.

This grand building (both in the same place) is an important part of the square. The Government House of the Republic of Armenia is the symbol of the Republic of Armenia.

The beautiful building has an amazing masterpiece of stone art on it and the main tower has a clock and bells. The Central Post Office of the Republic of Armenia, yet another architectural jewel, is characterized by a large arch at its center, decorated with national ornaments and symbols.

Since the early days, this building has served as a post office, a place for transferring money, and many other things.

The Marriott Armenia, one of the most popular hotels in Yerevan , is located in a historical building in Republic Square. It has a beautiful facade made of stone art with traditional designs.

The former Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources building is made from white stone and gives a contrast to the otherwise pink square. At the moment it’s not being used, but occasionally it hosts art exhibitions.

Another beautiful thing to see in Yerevan is definitely the legendary Singing Fountains which are located next to the National Gallery and are the final piece of the architectural showcase that is Republic Square.

Republic Square was constructed in 1924 by the notable Armenian architect Alexander Tamanyan.

Through his design, he showed us how it is possible to create one harmonious project with multiple buildings that are not connected to each other. The square is very easy to reach with a metro station right next to it.

12. Sports and Concerts Complex Karen Demirchyan

This huge complex is located on the Tsitsernakaberd hill, looming over the western part of Yerevan.

If you look at the complex from the outside, you will see that it is shaped like a bird opening its wings. In 1987, the architects of the complex won the USSR State Prize because of their amazing seating concept.

They designed a turning tribune that connects two halls together to reveal more seating. The two big halls in the complex are the concert hall and the sports hall.

There is also a Hayastan hall where conferences and exhibitions are held.

After only being open for a year and a half, in the beginning, a fire broke out and they were forced to close the complex. It was renovated and reopened at the end of 1987 where it continued to host events.

The architects involved in building the complex were A. Tarkhanian, S. Khachikyan, G. Pogosyan, and G. Mushegyan .

13. Vernissage Yerevan

Vernissage is an open-air market/gallery and it’s another famous Yerevan tourist spot. You can find local handicrafts at stands or inside some of the stores around the area.

This market is one of the most famous Yerevan attractions where souvenirs, jewelry, and many more items are found.

It is a must-visit point on your things to do in the Yerevan list and the perfect place to spend a relaxing day and discover a part of the Armenian culture.

Address: 1, 3 Buzand St, Yerevan 0010

14. Walk the Old Streets of Hanrapetutyan, Arami, and Abovyan

Hanrapetutyan.

Located in central Yerevan, it’s the main street that is easy to find.

Though there isn’t too much to see, Hanrpetutyan has some of Yerevan’s oldest buildings, dating back to the end of the 19th century. One of the most interesting buildings is #32.

You must enter the building on the left and walk through the corridor where, to your right, you will see a very special room. Decorated with both Persian- and Armenian-style decor, you can spend quite a bit of time there enjoying and examining the beautifully decorated room.

This street was named after Aram Manukian , the “Popular Dictator” and Minister of Internal Affairs for the First Republic (1919-1921). It was one of the more fashionable streets in Yerevan, where “Armenian Belle Époque” mansions could be found. Unfortunately, very few remain now.

These days, it is worth the walk to be able to visit the Art Nouveau Afrikian Profit House and the stone workshop of a master Khachkar carver.

The most prominent feature of Abovyan is the hidden courtyards, where you can find refuge from the heat of the summer under trees and near the fountains.

This street is also lined with cafes, which have pleasant outdoor seating along the sidewalk, where you can enjoy a drink or meal.

Insider Tip:  Many buildings off of Abovyan and the area around it have secret courtyards cafes and businesses nestled in them.  You can find out more and see them for yourself in this ‘ Magic and Secrets of Yerevan ‘ walking tour.

15. Victory Bridge

Named after the victory in the Second World War , this beautiful historical bridge dates back to 1945. Measuring 200 meters long, it is longer than its predecessor, which collapsed in the 1679 earthquake.

Hrazdan Gorge can be seen by crossing the bridge. On one side of the gorge, there are many restaurants that still retain their old charm.

16. Zodiac Fountain at Charles Aznavour Square

At the center of Charles Aznavour Square , you can find a fountain designed with the zodiac signs.

At the square, there are cafes where you can stop for a delicious coffee. The square also boasts the Moscow Cinema , where every year, a rock concert is organized.

Address: 18 Abovyan St, Yerevan 0001

17. Yerevan History Museum

This museum first opened in 1931 on the second floor of the Yerevan Fire Department building. Later, in 1936, it moved to the Blue Mosque, then from 1994-1997, it was located in the former Hripsime Female Gymnasium.

From 1997 to 2005 it was located in the building of the School N1, until finally being established in a new building in 2005 together with the City Hall.

There are tens of thousands of artifacts in the museum, with pieces from ancient times to the present day. These pieces tell the story of the city and its people and are exhibited throughout various rooms in the museum.

Address: 1/1 Argishti St, Yerevan 0010

Working hours: Monday-Saturday  10:00 – 17.30. Closed Sundays.

Ticket fee: 500 AMD

Best Restaurants in Yerevan

There are many restaurants in Yerevan and here are a couple of special places to eat in Yerevan where you can try fresh and delicious Armenia cuisine with top-quality brandies or the best Armenian wines:

Located next to Republic Square, Sherep restaurant ins one has a beautiful open kitchen and a real Armenian lavash bakery. You can’t miss it if you’re going down Amiryan Street to the square.

The bread-baking process will entice you to try one of the best meals in Yerevan, from old Armenian dishes to international cuisine fusion.

The restaurant is very busy after work and on the weekends, so we recommend reserving a table in advance or trying it during the day not at peak hours.

Address: 1 Amiryan St, Yerevan 0010. For more information, check out their website .

19. Kamancha

Kamancha restaurant is a great place to relax after walking around and discovering Yerevan.

This restaurant has a wonderfully cozy sidewalk terrace where you can chill with refreshing drinks during the hot season and try great quality food made from fresh local ingredients.

In the evenings, there are concerts with local folk and other genre bands.

Address: 23 Tumanyan St, Yerevan. For more information, check out their website .

Beer, Wine, and Coffee in Yerevan

One of the best craft beer breweries in Yerevan, Dors Craft Beer & Kitchen is located in the old town of Yerevan and has high-quality delicious craft beer.

If you love good craft beer and good food to compliment your selection, Dors is definitely the place for you. Their friendly staff and beautiful interior and exterior just wait for beer lovers.

Address: 4, 6 Amiryan St, Pavstos Buzand St, Yerevan 0010. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

21. In Vino

One of the most beloved places in Yerevan for wine lovers is definitely the little cozy In Vino with selections of hundreds of wines.

One of the pioneer wine houses of Saryan Street, In Vino, serves fantastic quality wines with delicious cheese place and prosciutto. The sidewalk tables and inside interior are very inviting and will please every wine lover.

Address: 6 Martiros Saryan St, Yerevan.  For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Insider Tip:   You can learn all about Armenia as the birthplace of wine in this fantastic wine tour of Yerevan .  You will get to try local favorites and dive into its history in the country.

22. Voskevaz Wine Time

In the central part of Saryan Wine Street, Voskevaz Wine Time welcomes you to their comfortable second-floor terrace.

Voskevaz restaurant amazes with its wide selection of wines coming from Voskevaz Winery located in the Aragatsotn region .

The quality wines are served with tasty Armenian and fusion dishes.

Address: 6 Martiros Saryan St, Yerevan 0002. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

23. Brew 1582

With a beautiful and modern interior, Brew 1582 is one of the newest coffee shops in Yerevan with great service and professional staff.

The cafe is located near the Cascade and has a beautiful, cozy terrace where you can enjoy not only a high-quality coffee but a great dinner or breakfast in the morning.

Address: 1A Tamanyan St Yerevan, Armenia. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Hip Bars and Cafes in Yerevan

Yerevan has always had a great cafe and bar life but over the years the industry was revolutionized and became hipper and new places started to open with experimental elements and interiors.

It is possible to find the best cafes in Yerevan throughout the city that have influences from the East to the West, spiced with the traditional Armenian cafe experience.

24. Epicure

Epicure is a cool cocktail bar in Yerevan with a terrace that has a great ambiance.

In the daytime, it can be a great coworking spot, and on the weekends, a nice place to relax on the terrace and in the evenings a hip spot where both locals and travelers hang out.

The idea of Epicure is to “feel free to feel free” and help others to feel free and happy by enjoying good food and music by guest DJs.

Address: 40 Pushkin Str. Yerevan, Armenia 0010. For more information, check out their Facebook page .

25. Kong Yerevan

Kong is a hip cafe where no detail has been overlooked to make the space beautiful and comfortable. Located in one of the historical buildings on Abovyan Street, Kong is a tropical dream hidden in the city center.

The cafe has an open terrace on the first floor and non-smoking lounge rooms on the second floor where you can try many types of coffee, great Asian food, and much more.

Address: 3/1 Abovyan Street Yerevan, Armenia 0010. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

26. Mirzoyan Library

Yet another hidden spot in Yerevan center, located in a typical old Yerevan building with a charming little backyard.

Mirzoyan Library is a beloved place for Yerevan locals and travelers because it is the place where an authentic environment meets creative, hip ideas.

Mirzoyan Library is the first photobook library in the region where lovers of photography and photo books can visit, read their books, or donate a book.

Address: 10 Mher Mkrtchyan Street Yerevan, Armenia 0010. For more information, check out their Facebook page .

Things to do in Yerevan at Night

27. moyka garage bar.

Located in the old Kond district of Yerevan, Moyka Garage Bar is an old Soviet-era car wash garage converted to a cool and hip nightclub with great music and a fun environment.

This unique bar brings back the simple idea of fun and a good time with international DJs, finger food, and cocktails.

These types of new formats of entertainment in Yerevan are growing and becoming movements just like the annual Urvakan Festival .

Address: 46 Leo St, Yerevan. For more information, check out their Facebook page.  

28. Poligraf

Poligraf is a multifunctional space for urban art and music development platforms. The hip facility hosts DJs from Armenia and beyond who are experimenting and diversifying the electronic music genre.

Address: 19a Koryun St, Yerevan 0009. For more information, check out their Facebook page.  

Yerevan Sightseeing for Nature Lovers

29. victory park.

Located at the top of Cascade, Victory Park was a commemoration of Armenia’s participation in World War 2. It is a large forested area with its own amusement park and an artificial lake with a breathtaking view of Yerevan.

Here you also find the Mother Armenia statue that replaced the statue of Stalin, which was built in 1950 after their victory in The Great Patriotic War. Stalin’s statue was removed in 1967, and two workers were killed during the process.

Now, Mother Armenia proudly stands in its place as a representation of strength, peace, and protection for the city.

30. Yerevan Botanical Garden

A beautiful and refreshing place for a long walk, the Yerevan Botanical Garden is perfectly peaceful.

There are several greenhouses throughout the park, some of which are open to the public.

Inside the greenhouses, you can see how its plants are grown and even buy some that are for sale.

The garden is home to over 200 species of plants, some of which are very rare and endangered. It is a popular place for newlyweds to take pictures and a great picnic spot for families and friends.

Address: Acharyan St., 1 Building

Working hours: Monday-Sunday  8:30 – 22.30

Ticket fee: 300 AMD

31. Lovers’ Park

This park is known as Lovers’ Park because of its popularity with newlyweds.

On Sundays, you can see many couples taking photos. Its waterfalls, ponds, and bridges make it the perfect location for photos, and the free wifi is a plus. Inside the park, there is a restaurant where you can enjoy a nice lunch or drinks after many things to do in Yerevan.

Address: Bagramyan Marshal Ave 21

32. English Park

One of the oldest parks in Yerevan, it dates back to the 1860s. In 1920, it hosted the first-ever football match in the modern history of Armenia.

On the outskirts of English Park , you can find the Sundukyan Academic Theatre, the French Embassy, the Italian Embassy, and the Best Western Congress Hotel.

It is located on Italy Street in Yerevan.

33. Tumo Park

One of the most exceptional parks in Yerevan, Tumo Park has an absolutely breathtaking view of the city and the gorge it stands over. To get to the park, you need to cross the Kievyan Bridge, which in itself has a beautiful view on either side.

Particularly popular in the summer, the park is noticeably cooler than the city center. There, you relax and just lie on the grass sipping a drink, or you can play sports with friends and enjoy what the park has to offer.

Address: 16 Halabyan St

34. Hrazdan Gorge

The best way to access the gorge is at the southern end of Mashtots Avenue.

You should walk on the side of Mashtots with odd numbers, take the underground passage at #3, and just continue walking until you reach a terrace where you will have a view of the Hrazdan Gorge , Victory Bridge, and sometimes Ararat.

From there, you can choose what path to take but exploring Hrazdan Gorge is definitely one of the best hidden things to do in Yerevan.

Yerevan Tunnel to Hrazdan Gorge

A hidden Soviet-era tunnel connects Yerevan’s downtown to the lush green Hrazdan Gorge with a river an old aqueduct and a railway station.

This secret tunnel is 480 meters from one side to another and you can see graffiti and murals as you walk through it.

The tunnel passes underneath the Kond old district and has an interesting zigzag light design and the experience of walking in it is an unusual thing to do in Yerevan.

Children’s Railway Station

One of the few miniature railways that remain, the Children’s Railway has three train stations. Tickets cost less than a dollar. The ride is 2km long and departs about every 15 minutes.

This place was built over 80 years ago, and now has a beautiful garden, game room, and new trains. Even though it is intended for children, everyone is welcome to visit this unique part of Yerevan.

The old-fashioned railway station was revitalized when the popular Urvakan electronic music festival hosted a big festival in the Hrazdan Gorge and one of the main locations was this train station.

Yerevan Zipline

The Yerevan Zipline is the longest in Armenia. It crosses over the stunning Hrazdan Gorge and passes under the bridge at a height of 90 meters.

The longest line at Yerevan Zipline is 870 meters and the second line is 650 meters.

You can fly down at a speed of 150km and admire beautiful views of the gorge mixed with an adrenaline rush. If you aren’t afraid of heights, don’t miss out on the fun that Yerevan Zipline offers, with stunning views of the beautiful, natural gorge.

Working hours: All week  10:30 – 19:30

Ticket fee: 14,000 AMD

Address: Arabkir, Papazyan st. 114/1 Yerevan, Armenia 0089. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Unusual Things to Do in Yerevan / Hidden Gems

35. kond district.

The Kond district is one of the three original neighborhoods from the 17th century. It translates to “long hill,” which is most likely because of its location.

During the Persian rule, it became the home of Armenians and has remained that way. You can see different types and styles of structures in Kond since it has survived through many eras.

You can still see the remains of the Thapha Bashi Mosque, where many Armenians hid during the 1915 genocide. St. Hovhannes Church is still in its original spot, thanks to extensive renovations. Unfortunately, Kond is the main target of urban redevelopment.

The neighborhood has an improvised nature and seems somewhat messy in terms of urban planning, but that gives it its own charm. Many of the residents don’t even have addresses for their homes.

Currently, there is construction around the historical structures, but we still don’t know what the future holds for Kond.

Graffiti artists have given Kond a new purpose as it is now a Yerevan attraction where you can walk through the neighborhood and take pictures of some amazing wall murals .

36. Open Air Cinema Yerevan

The open-air cinema is a perfect activity when summertime hits and the weather calls for nights outside. This theater is behind the Moscow Cinema where the St. Paul and St. Peter Church once stood.

It was built during the Soviet Era, but even after the collapse of the Soviet Union, when the church wanted to reclaim the land, there was strong opposition by Yerevantsis.

Presently, the amphitheater plays screenings during the Yerevan Golden Apricot International Film Festival and continues to show movies during the summer. It is right downtown with plenty of bars and restaurants nearby that you can visit before or after watching a movie.

Address: Abovyan St., Building 18, Yerevan

37. ICA Yerevan

The Institute of Contemporary Art Yerevan (ICA) is a place for the development and production of art projects.

It is an organization that promotes the development of the art economy in Armenia, implements art collecting, exhibitions, and projects, and organizes teaching programs in theory and art education among many other things.

The ICA provides a network for people and their ideas and through the ICA School, Project, and Research labs they have access to the resources necessary to work in the contemporary art scene.

They provide the Karoyan Gallery and Nest artists’ residency for particularly outstanding artists, where local and international artists can meet and exchange ideas.

The space is open to the public, and you can enjoy the garden while drinking tea or have a peaceful place to do some work.

Coming here is a great way to meet people from different backgrounds and professions and exchange ideas and projects. It is full of art residents, so there is always a chance of meeting someone interesting.

Address: Fizkulturnikneri, Aygestan 5th street

38. Arev Art Gallery

Arev is the artist behind the stained glass piece “The Power of Unity” displayed at the Assembly Hall of PACE. She was covered in the Women in Art magazine for her piece on Mother Armenia.

She has participated in many international expositions including the Beijing International Art Biennale, Art Monaco, and the Dubai Art Fair.

She has also designed several television sets, incorporating her unique style into each one.  You can learn more about her and her contributions at the Arev Art Gallery in Yerevan.

Address: 19 Teryan St., Yerevan

39. Books 1512 Old Bookstore

Update: Now the bookstore is a coffee show but the interior is the same. 

Near the Matenadaran building, there is a bookstore called Books 1512. It doesn’t look that special from the outside, but inside you will find it is a hidden gem. The tucked-away bookstore has a beautiful, well-preserved interior built in the 1940s.

Here you can buy books about Armenia in different languages as well as many other interesting books.

Address: 45 Mesrop Mashtots Ave

40. Sergei Parajanov Museum

Sergei Parajanov is a world-renowned film director and artist with a unique style that has been praised by his contemporaries. The museum was founded in 1988, but it wasn’t opened until 1991 due to construction delays.

The museum first held around 600 of Sergey’s possessions, from collages, drawings, film sketches, and furniture; now, it stores over 1,500 pieces. Apart from Parajanov’s personal belongings, the museum also has gifts from friends and letters from other prominent cultural figures.

In a separate hall are his drawings and collages created in prison, where he spent several years. The museum has organized 64 exhibitions in more than 30 countries and is one of the most popular and interesting places in Yerevan.

Address: Dzoragyugh 1st St, Yerevan

41. Dalan Restaurant Art Shop

At the entrance of this beautiful restaurant is a souvenir shop that has a collection of beautiful, local works of art. Whether you are a tourist or a local, you can’t help but want to buy the whole store when you step inside.

Dalan has absolutely beautiful jewelry displayed at the center of the shop and perfect souvenirs lining the walls. Most of the items are pieces made by masters of their trade; made from clay, wood, leather, or metal, each piece is unique.

Address: 12 Abovyan St, Yerevan

42. Megerian Carpet Museum

The Megerian family, who was originally from Armenia but later moved to New York, has been in the carpet business for over 100 years.

They were a key component in revitalizing this traditional art after the fall of the Soviet Union.

Originally, they were focused on selling rugs, but later learned the art of restoring existing antiques.

As antique rugs became more scarce, they began to develop the skill of producing their own rugs. They began to copyright their designs to mark their individuality.

Their carpets are now being produced in several countries including Egypt, Armenia, Romania, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and China, with over 22 facilities in Armenia.

Apart from its 5th Avenue location in New York City, the company has showrooms in Italy, France, Switzerland, and Germany.

Address: 9 Madoyan Street, Yerevan is where you’ll find the Megerian Carpet Museum in Yerevan.

43. At Gayane’s Hidden Restaurant

Truly a hidden gem, At Gayane’s is not the easiest place to find right off the street, but it will be extremely worth it if you decide to go. They offer a delicious seasonal menu at affordable prices.

The restaurant is a popular Yerevan tourist spot even though not everyone knows where it is located.

The best way to reach the restaurant is by entering the arch numbered 33 on Tumanyan Street and go right until you reach a green gate to your left.

Address: 35b Tumanyan street, Yerevan

Shopping in Yerevan

44. 5concept.

One of the coolest places to go shopping in Yerevan is 5Concept , a colorful concept store that specializes in promoting the products of local designers.

You will find an array of unique items in-house, from designer shoes from Ellasi to vibrant socks from Art Socks, a local brand that creates designs on socks inspired by Armenian art and other artists from around the world.

If you’re into shopping for local designers, definitely make a stop at 5concept.

You will find 5concept at Sayat Nova 5 in Yerevan. For more information, check out their Facebook page .

45. Prime Casual Wear

On the opposite side of the spectrum, you will find more casual, Armenian designs at Prime Casual Wear .  They have two locations (one just opened near the Yeritasardakan metro station) and an online shop that sells interesting designs at affordable prices.

Prime is a great place to pick up some clothes for the road.  Their designs are very Armenian and the cloth is high-quality compared to its price.

I find their tops and sweatshirts make a great travel accompaniment when I am traveling and need something comfortable but still able to make a statement.

And, they are an Armenian-owned company so you’d be supporting a fantastic local business! You can find Prime Casual Wear at 67/2 Hanrapetutyan St in Yerevan.  For more information, check out their website .

• Day Trips from Yerevan

There are many fantastic day trips from Yerevan that you can take when visiting.

Our Yerevan day tours guide has some of our favorites and be sure to check out our guide to the best Armenian tours leaving from Yerevan!

46. Garni Temple

Garni Temple is the rare and the only pagan temple that exists in Armenia and in the whole Caucasus region today.

Located only 40 minutes away from Yerevan in the Kotayk region, Garni Temple was built in 1 AD as a king’s summer house, right on the edge of the breathtaking Azat Gorge .

It was dedicated to Mihr, the god of sun and light. Garni village itself is a wonderful place to try Armenian cuisine at local restaurants, hike into the gorge over old volcanic stones, and photograph amazing scenery.

Click here to see how to get from Yerevan to Garni .

47. Geghard Monastery

Fifteen minutes away from Garni Temple, you can visit a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Geghard Monastery complex .

The road to the Geghard Monastery is stunning. The monastery is on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list because of its very unique and complicated architecture.

Half of the Geghard Monastery complex is actually dug into the huge rock behind it, and as you enter you will notice that the interior size does not visually match the perceived exterior size.

48. Khor Virap

One of the biggest symbols of Christianity in Armenia, aside from Etchmiadzin, is the Khor Virap Monastery .

Khor Virap, which means “deep dungeon,” used to be a royal jail where Gregory the Illuminator was locked underground by Tiridates III.

Khor Virap is located in the breathtaking Ararat Valley in front of Ararat Mountain.

Here you can explore the church of Khor Virap, walk down to the iconic dungeon, and explore the beautiful surrounding nature as it is one of the best places to visit in Ararat province .

49. Sevan Lake

Sevan is the biggest freshwater lake in all of the Caucasus with ancient churches, islands, lakeside restaurants, and an amazing ecosystem. Sevan Lake is located only an hour away from Yerevan and is very easy to get to by car .

Known as the “Blue Pearl of Armenia”, Sevan Lake hosts tourists and locals all year round, even in winter.

The most visited place is the Sevan peninsula which has two ancient churches you can walk to while enjoying amazing views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay in Yerevan

Yerevan center is lovely and staying there is essential if you’re looking to visit Yerevan with ease. There are a few boutique hotels , guesthouses, and hostels that we recommend depending on your travel budget.

If you are looking for the best hotels in Yerevan , check out our linked guide!

The Alexander (Splurge):   For those looking to be spoiled with luxury, Alexander is one of Armenia’s finest hotels that offers class and luxury to visitors.

It is located near Northern Avenue and Republic Square and is only a short walk away from Yerevan Wine Days on Saryan Street.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for The Alexander

Daniel Boutique Hotel (Mid-range):   Located in the center of the city, the Daniel Boutique Hotel offers affordable accommodation with lovely, cozy rooms for you and your family.

The hotel has all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay in the pink capital.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Daniel Boutique Hotel

Grand Hostel Yerevan (Budget):   Located only 10 minutes away from Republic Square is the Grand Hostel Yerevan .

This place is wonderful for the budget traveler because you can get spacious, affordable, and clean rooms whether you want a private or a dorm.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Grand Hostel Yerevan

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Armenia?

Armenia is a relatively safe country and we are trying to show all the best qualities and colors of it.

Still, when you are traveling, safety is something that always needs to be a top priority, which is why we partner with the Norwegian travel insurance company SafetyWing .

This health insurance company has very affordable rates. We personally use their insurance while traveling and love their service!

>> Click here to check Armenia travel insurance rates

We hope that this guide of things to do in Yerevan will help you plan your trip and enjoy Armenia’s capital city!

Be sure to check out our guide to Armenia in autumn if you’re visiting during the fall or our Armenia winter guide if you’re visiting during the colder months!

More Yerevan Travel Guides

• How to Get From Yerevan Airport to the City Center
• Best Hotels in Yerevan
• Things to do in Yerevan in Winter
• Two Days in Yerevan Itinerary
• Best Wine Tasting in Yerevan
• Yerevan Coffee shops
• Yerevan Taxi Tips
• Yerevan Wine Days Festival

PIN IT FOR LATER!

4 thoughts on “ 49 Fabulous and Impressive Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia ”

Thank you. It’s very helpful

You are welcome 🙂

Great guide guys

I’m visiting Yerevan for my second time this week- we last visited maybe 3 years back.

In Vino was already on my ‘wine tour’ list as we spent many hours there last time.

We are visiting to watch the football this time- 🇦🇲 v 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Hi there! We are happy to hear that. Enjoy your time in Armenia 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• 🇦🇲 Learn Armenian

Wander-Lush

30 Awesome Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan is one of my all-time favourite cities and a place I never tire of visiting. This curated guide to Armenia’s capital city brings together 30 of my favourite things to do in Yerevan , including must-sees, the best free activities, and quirky and alternative attractions.

On my first visit to the Caucasus , Armenia fell smack bang in the middle of my itinerary. I had originally planned to spend a few weeks travelling all around the country .

But not long after stepping off the train in Yerevan, I had changed my mind and decided to spend a couple of weeks in the capital instead.

Yerevan is small, but it’s my kind of city. It’s the kind of place that warms your heart and lifts your spirits; a city of parks and fountains, outdoor bars and cafes, music and laughter, independent shops and creative spaces, sprawling markets and cute boutiques.

And with views like this, how could you not fall a little bit in love?

Like Tbilisi, Yerevan is another capital on the cusp of Europe and Asia. This is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Yerevanians have weathered a recent history so tragic it almost defies belief.

Hard times have made Armenians proud of their identity and heritage, and their capital is in many ways an outward expression of that. This is where you’ll find most of the country’s top museums, cultural institutions, and restaurants that keep Armenia’s culinary traditions alive.

With its pink tuff-stone facades, wide boulevards and fountain-filled squares, Yerevan is a walking city and a photography lover’s dream. This guide brings together my favourite things to do in Yerevan plus my top visitor’s tips.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Yerevan Essentials

• Yerevan City Card: If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, consider picking up an official Yerevan City Pass. It grants you entry to more than 40 museums in Yerevan, city tours, unlimited rides on public transport, a complimentary SIM card, plus discounts on a number of restaurants and shops. Buy your Yerevan Card online here .
• Airport transfer: Book a private transfer to your hotel in Yerevan here . Prices start from a very reasonable $13 per group.
• Top Yerevan city tour: Short on time or want to explore the city with a local? You can now tour Yerevan in a vintage GAZ-M20 Pobeda (nicknamed ‘Stalin’s Car’), visiting Victory Park, Cafesjian, Republic Square and the Vernissage market in the comfort of a retro convertible!
• Yerevan day trips: For budget-friendly day trips around Armenia, I recommend travelling with Hyur Service . They offer a large variety of long and short itineraries with professional guides and safe drivers. Browse more Yerevan day trips here on Viator .

Where to stay in Yerevan

If it’s your first time in Yerevan, I highly recommend choosing an accommodation in the central Kentron District. This will put you within easy walking distance of all the top places to visit in Yerevan, terrific restaurants, bars and cafes.

I usually stay in the north-west of the city around Saryan Street.

BUDGET: Highland Hostel (⭐ 9.8). This bright hostel has both a mixed dorm and a budget-friendly private double room. It is located 10 minutes by foot from Republic Square.

MID-RANGE: Republica Hotel (⭐ 9.2). This stylish hotel offers comfortable rooms decorated with traditional Armenian carpets and with views towards Ararat from the windows and balconies. The breakfast is highly regarded.

HISTORIC: Villa Delenda (⭐ 8.8). This cosy, character-filled boutique hotel is set inside a 100-year-old stone villa and decorated with gorgeous heritage furnishings. The central location in Kentron is perfect.

HIGH-END: Tufenkian Historic Yerevan Hotel (⭐ 9.1). This luxury 19th century-style hotel is located adjacent to the Venissage in the centre of the city. It features modern suites, a pool, an onsite restaurant, and in the basement, an Armenian carpet museum!

30 awesome things to do in Yerevan

This curated list brings together my favourite free things to do in Yerevan , alternative and offbeat attractions, museums and galleries, and classic Yerevan experiences that I consider must-dos!

1. Summit the Yerevan Cascade for a view of Mount Ararat

On the opposite side of the city from Republic Square, the massive limestone staircase that is the Yerevan Cascade rises up to link the lower and upper parts of the city. One of the best things to do in Armenia is climb the Cascade for a view of Yerevan and the twin peaks of Mount Ararat .

Start in the Sculpture Garden that skirts the bottom of the stairs. Here’s where you’ll find a collection of provocative and humorous works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. ‘Smoking Woman’ and ‘Gatto’ (the cat) are my favourites.

You then have the option to climb the outdoor Cascade stairs or to head inside to the Cafesjian Museum of Art and ride the escalators to the top. Ascending the massive hillside staircase will give you close-up views of the Soviet-style stone reliefs , fountains and sculptures that decorate every tier.

Inside, encased within the stairs, there is a series of galleries that showcase different art and design exhibitions. Four of the galleries (including the Sasuntsi Davit Gallery) are free to visit while others require a ticket.

The Cascade is one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan. And it only gets better once you get to the top of the stairs – if you’re lucky, you’ll be rewarded with gob-smacking views. On a clear day, fabled Greater Ararat – the spot where Noah is said to have set down his Ark – rises above the rooftops.

Save this activity for a clear day. My best tip is to get there as early as possible, especially in summer, as the sky tends to get progressively hazier as the day goes on. Do note that the fountains aren’t turned on until mid-morning (on my last visit I was there at 10am and they weren’t running yet).

In spring and winter you can climb up for sunset and often get a clear picture of Ararat.

• Location: 10 Tamanyan Street
• Opening hours: 24/7 (outside); 8am-8pm Friday to Sunday (Cafesjian)
• Cost: Both the sculpture garden and galleries are now completely free

2. Keep on climbing to the October Revolution Memorial

The views from the top of the Cascade are hard to beat – but if you want to continue walking, it is possible to climb even higher above the city. The October Revolution Memorial, Victory Park and the Mother Armenia statue are all located in Kanaker-Zeytun district behind the Cascade and are easy to reach on foot in around 20-30 minutes .

When you reach the top of the Cascade, take the path up on the left-hand side. You will soon be able to see the underside and inner workings of the Cascade itself, which is quite interesting!

Continue walking, following the lemon-coloured wall next to the construction site all the way until you are standing underneath the concrete structure. Use the metal stairs next to the guard box to go all the way to the top, and you will pop out inside the memorial complex.

You can get a nice photo of the obelisk and stairs from this angle, framed by the concrete overhang.

The October Revolution Memorial consists of a huge concrete plaza (the views are rather grand from here, too), a mausoleum-like stone building, and a 50-metre-tall obelisk . The obelisk is crowned with a single wheat sheaf symbolising the Tree of Life.

It was created in 1967 by Jim Torosyan and Sargis Gurzadyan to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution.

3. Walk through Victory Park & say ‘hello’barev’ to Mother Armenia

Officially opening in November 1950 after two decades of work, Victory Park is one of the biggest green spaces in Yerevan and undoubtedly commands the best views of the city.

The park has a great retro vibe (there is even an abandoned Soviet-era building inside – see the next section), with cute hand-drawn maps at every entrance. There are several more war memorials inside the park plus some beautiful khachkar stones. In the upper part there is an amusement park, an artificial lake and a ferris wheel.

When coming from the Cascade via the October Revolution Memorial, exit from the back of the memorial plaza (follow the street down a few metres to get a view of the neo-Brutalist apartment building ), then use the pedestrian underpass to cross the road. You will see one of the entrances to Victory Park directly in front of you.

Once inside, follow the main walking path all the way along, past the abandoned restaurant (see below), and you will eventually come to a marked panoramic viewpoint, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and eternal flame, and the Mother Armenia statue.

One of the most conspicuous Soviet-era monuments in Yerevan, Mother Armenia is a 22-metre-high statue set in Victory Park. Originally a 17-metre-tall Stalin statue stood on this spot until the copper effigy was removed in 1962.

A symbol of ‘peace through strength’, Mother Armenia was designed by Ara Harutyunyan and bears a resemblance and similar sentiment to other ‘mother’ statues in former USSR cities (including Tbilisi, where you’ll find Mother of Georgia adjacent to Narikala Fortress ). There is a second Mother Armenia statue in Armenia’s second-largest city, Gyumri .

This statue is special for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it is modelled off a real woman, Genya Muradian. The story of how she came to inspire the sculptor is very cool!

Another thing that sets this statue apart from her sisters is the basalt-stone pedestal, which is hollowed out to form several chambers. Designed by Rafayel Israyelian, it now houses the Military Museum of Armenia . Entry is by donation.

4. Photograph the abandoned Aragil Restaurant

If you’re up for a short urbexing detour, I highly recommend stopping at the former Restaurant Aragil while you walk through Victory Park. Located at the very front of the park overlooking the city, it has an incredible view and must have been quite the spot back in the day.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I went looking for the abandoned building. Turns out it is right off the main path that runs through the lower part of the park. The interesting part – the open terrace with a colourful floor mosaic – is outside (the main part of the restaurant building is locked) and very easy to find. I was alone and didn’t feel nervous here at all.

You can also see the old restaurant sign hanging at the front of the building, and a very interesting stone relief on the side that depicts a stork (Aragil means ‘stork’ in Armenian). Off to the side there are abandoned gazebos.

A sign on the front of the building indicates that the restaurant opened in 1960 and was designed by the Armenian architect Rafayel Israyelian (the same artist responsible for the stone Mother of Armenia pedestal). It also says the restaurant was ‘preserved and restored’ – I guess at some point there were plans to demolish it. I hope someone does eventually restore and reopen it.

5. Visit the mighty Matenadaran Museum of Ancient Manuscripts

Officially the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, the Matenadaran is set inside an imposing building on the hillside behind the Cascade. To get there, cross the little footbridge before the Divers sculpture then follow the lower road.

The Matenadaran is the safekeeper of the world’s largest collection of Armenian manuscripts. The institute was established in 1959 and is named after the man who developed the Armenian alphabet. The five-storey building holds an estimated 23,000 manuscripts and scrolls, plus another half-a-million archival documents, decrees and periodicals – many of them donated by the public.

A small cross-section of the collection is on display inside the Matenadaran’s stately rooms, presented in antique wooden cabinets under glass. The illuminated manuscripts are particularly beautiful, and it’s fascinating to see early examples of the Armenian alphabet, itself very unique.

The institute also has a copy of Urbatagirk , the first ever Armenian book published in Venice in 1512.

• Location: 53 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: 10am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays)
• Cost: 1,500 AMD
• Tip: You’ll need to pay an additional 2,500 AMD if you want to take photos inside

6. Grab a drink at Lumen 1936, Yerevan’s most beautiful coffee shop

Conveniently located close to the bottom of the Cascade, Lumen Coffee 1936 is the ideal place to spot for breakfast or a drink after your morning walk.

Previously a tobacconist and a bookstore, the space originally opened in 1940 and features original painted walls, inlay ceilings and woodwork by master craftsman Hovhannes Naghashyan.

The cafe has two delightful little single-person booth seats for solo sippers plus a couple of tables. The coffee is top-notch, and they also serve breakfast (sadly I arrived before the kitchen was open so I just grabbed a croissant).

The historic fittings and morning light pouring through the front windows makes this one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan.

• Location: 45 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: Daily from 8.30am until late

7. Hunt down Yerevan street art

In early 2023 Yerevan hosted its first street art festival, the City of the Future Street Art Festival . Several large-scale murals were created as part of the event, including the work pictured above left by Italian artist Antonio Perrotta ( attorrep ), which can be seen on the facade of the Academy of Fine Arts close to Lumen Cafe.

There are at least three more murals around town – see how many you can spot during your travels around Yerevan.

Just around the corner, there is another public art project worth stopping by. The ‘Eternal Alphabet Wall’ is a set of sculptures of the characters of the Armenian alphabet created by artist and designer Vahan Balasanyan.

8. Stroll through Republic Square

Republic Square (also known simply as ‘the Square’ or Hraparak) is the heart and social centre of Yerevan. This is where you can see some of the city’s most impressive stone buildings (including the National Museum) arranged around a large open plaza. In spring and summer, tulips and roses bloom around the edge of the square.

When it was constructed between the 1950s and 70s, city planners flattened Yerevan’s old town and erected the square right on top. That’s why Yerevan doesn’t have a defined ‘Old Town’ area like Tbilisi . At the time of my first visit in 2017, work had just started to construct a ‘new old town’ using fragments of recovered tuff stone.

Originally called Lenin Square, this was once a marching ground for military parades. Now, Republic Square is a gathering place for Yerevanites young and old – and a very popular spot to grab an ice cream cone or a cup of coffee on a sunny afternoon.

Did you know that Yerevan gets 300 days of sunshine every year? Republic Square is the perfect place to soak up some rays. Every night, the square’s Dancing Fountain lights up for a show – but I prefer this area during the day when it’s chokkas with people. The atmosphere is great.

Located at the top of Republic Square, the History Museum of Armenia houses some of the country’s most significant archaeological finds, including the famous Areni-1 shoe , a 5,500-year-old leather shoe that was unearthed in Vayots Dzor in 2008. It’s very well preserved considering it’s the oldest leather shoe in the world!

The museum collection catalogues more than 400,000 items – a testament to Armenia’s long history. Given that this region is the birthplace of viniculture, I also recommend seeking out the urns and other artefacts related to the area’s winemaking tradition should you choose to visit.

The History Museum is interesting but it is not my favourite museum in Yerevan – read on for two of my top picks.

9. Drink from a Pulpulak

Yerevan’s drinking fountains, known as pulpulaks, are another unique feature of the city’s urban planning. Most of the fountains were erected in the 1920s. Incredibly, there are more than 1,500 in total – once you know what to look for you’ll notice them on almost every street corner and in parks and squares everywhere.

The fountain with the most impressive design is Yot Aghbyur (‘Seven Springs’) , which sits on the western side of Republic Square near the museum and has been a fixture of the city since 1965.

Crowds of thirsty punters queue to drink from the seven water bubblers. Do as the locals do and take a quick, healthy gulp of the fresh, icy cold water whenever you pass by – just don’t let your lips touch the fountain!

10. Step inside Katoghike, Yerevan’s most beautiful church

There are dozens of churches in Yerevan, most built from tuff stone in the same shades as the city’s buildings. They can be easy to miss, especially when they’re nestled at the foot of towering apartment blocks.

Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church was consecrated in 1264 , making it one of the oldest churches in the city . The complex is the result of decades of additions and reconstructions. A tiny chapel – only big enough to hold a few worshippers – is dwarfed by a new basilica that encases it.

Parts of the complex (including an original 13th-century wall) have survived all kinds of hardships, from the threat of Soviet city planning to earthquakes. In this way, I see it as something of a motif for Armenia in general. This place has a special aura and reverence about it, especially in the late afternoon when the sun sinks behind the bell tower, lighting up the plaza and illuminating the stone.

• Location: 17 Abovyan Street
• Opening hours: From 9am daily

11. Visit the Blue Mosque, the last active mosque in Armenia

Being the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion, the vast majority of Armenians have worshiped the same god since 301 AD. Modern-day Yerevan is extremely diverse, with Jews, Yazidis, Kurds and Syrian Muslims all calling the capital home.

Built in the 18th century, the Blue Mosque was the largest of Yerevan’s eight mosques and is the last remaining Islamic house of worship in Armenia today. Mainly used by the city’s Iranian community and embassy staff, it’s one of the top Yerevan attractions.

In a gesture of good faith, the mosque was leased to the Iranian Embassy in Yerevan in 2015. The turquoise, indigo and butter-yellow mosaics on the facade and exterior dome were restored and can now be admired from the leafy gardens out front. Don’t miss the elaborately decorated entrance that faces onto the road.

The mosque doubles as a cultural centre, offering classes in Farsi. It’s possible to go inside when prayers are not in progress – I haven’t ventured in myself, but from photos, the brick domed interior looks impressive. Appropriate dress (including a head covering for women) is required if you want to venture any further beyond the garden.

At the time of my most recent visit there was a pop-up shop inside one of the ancillary buildings. This meant that I could go inside one of the rooms and view the convex brick dome and tile work that decorates the interior.

The Blue Mosque is a symbol of the cordial relationship between Armenia and neighbouring Iran. The two countries have a visa-free tourism arrangement (a huge number of Iranians visit Yerevan every year), and Iran has allowed Armenia to preserve several Apostolic churches that fall within the Islamic Republic’s borders.

• Location: 12 Mesrop Mashtots Avenue
• Opening hours: 10am-1pm & 3pm-6pm daily

12. Rummage for treasure at the Vernissage Market

A must see in Yerevan, the city’s biggest outdoor market, the Vernissage, occupies all of the central Charles Aznavour Square. It began in the 1980s when a group of local painters started displaying their works outside the art institute on Buzand Street. Today it’s a huge indoor-outdoor market selling everything from canvases and carpets to second-hand treasures and handcrafted souvenirs .

As a rough guide, you can find most artists and craftspeople in the undercover section while antiques and vintage items are sold out back.

My favourite part of the Vernissage is the carpet section. Vendors set up along the side of the market, displaying a dizzyingly beautiful array of Caucasian rugs hung on tree branches and draped over the hoods of vintage cars.

Browse the rows of stalls, meet the artisans, rummage for antique coffee pots and cute knick knacks, then walk yourself up and down ‘carpet row’ a couple of times. The Vernissage is similar in some ways to Tbilisi’s Dry Bridge Market , but there are more handmade products versus antiques.

• Location: Buzand Street
• Opening hours: Daily from 7am-6pm

For tips on shopping for textiles at the Vernissage Market and elsewhere in Armenia, check out my Textile Lover’s Guide to the Caucasus .

13. Browse Yerevan’s small galleries & boutiques

The whole of Yerevan sometimes feels like an outdoor gallery, with painter’s easels, street performers, murals and colourful cafes on every corner. There are plenty of small galleries and boutiques where you can browse Armenian art, ceramics and handicrafts.

Dalan is one of my favourite gallery spaces and doubles as a souvenir shop. This is where the famous and much-photographed wall of plates is located.

Whether it’s fashion, hand-painted ceramics, tea, honey and other edibles, knickknacks, Soviet memorabilia or textiles you’re after, you’ll find it for sale in Yerevan.

→ For more advice on what to buy in Yerevan, see my guide to Armenian souvenirs and Yerevan shopping map .

14. See how lavash is made at the GUM Market

In Armenia, lavash is an essential accompaniment to every meal. The technique and ritual involved in making and eating this paper-thin bread is so intertwined with Armenian heritage that in 2014, UNESCO recognised it as part of the country’s intangible cultural heritage.

Lavash comes in an astounding array of colours and textures, each one more delicate and airy than the last. The best place to see huge lavash sheets being prepared and sold is at the GUM Market on Movses Khorenatsi Street.

This is one of my favourite markets in the Caucasus. It’s relatively small, but I always spend a good hour here roaming the aisles, trying to guess what the more foreign-looking items might be, taste testing (people are always offering samples!), and photographing the vibrant displays.

The lavash shops are along the left-hand wall of the main hall. At the front of the market you’ll find candied fruits and nuts. Don’t miss the back section where the fresh produce and pickles live!

If you’re curious to see how Armenian lavash is made, check out this short video I made on a day trip from Yerevan:

→ For more photos and tips, see my guide to visiting the GUM Market.

• Location: 35 Movses Khorenatsi Street
• Get there: 5-minute walk from Zoravar Andranik metro station (2 stops from Republic Square)
• Opening hours: 11am-5pm daily
• Tip: I recommend visiting around noon when the market is liveliest

15. Ride the Yerevan Metro & admire the station architecture

In the Soviet era, when a city’s population hit one million people a state-sponsored metro would be built for the people. Anything less, and a simple tram system would suffice.

I’m told that Yerevan’s population never met the threshold but the city managed to bypass these rules by convincing authorities that the repatriation of the Armenian diaspora would cause the population to balloon. (It didn’t – in fact, Yerevan’s population wouldn’t hit one million until 2012!)

Yerevan’s metro line officially opened in 1981 and services just 10 inner-city stations (with two more on the way). Tunnels are burrowed 20-70 metres below the streets, and some stations are located above ground. It’s an easy way to travel from one side of the city to the other – and riding the metro is a fun experience in and of itself.

Yerevan’s metro is very retro – some of the original blue cars still shuttle along, and the system continues to operate on a plastic token system. To ride the trains, you must first exchange a coin for a plastic token at the cashier desk inside the entrance. Alternatively, you can buy a rechargeable metro card or pick up a Yerevan City Card , which includes free public transport.

You can find some great examples of quirky metro station art and architecture in Yerevan, with the most impressive Soviet-style wall friezes located on the platforms at Yeritasardakan Station and Barekamutyun Station.

The underground Republic Square Station is very impressive as well, with its sunken fountain and sculptural roof opening (pictured above).

• Opening hours: The Yerevan Metro runs from 7am-11pm daily
• Cost: 100 AMD per ride
• Tip: Station names and directions are written in English on the tunnel walls

16. Seek out Yerevan’s Soviet throwbacks

Armenia was a Socialist Republic for almost 70 years. Some of the city’s most prominent landmarks went up during this period, including the Opera House and Republic Square.

There are reminders of Armenia’s not-so-distant Soviet past all over the city – fans of Brutalist architecture and Soviet nostalgia are guaranteed to have a field day.

Apart from the spots already mentioned in this guide, other prominent examples of Socialist architecture in Yerevan include the hulking ‘Commieblock’ apartments around Andranik Metro Station (you can visit these on your way to the GUM Market).

Then there are the not-so-obvious Soviet-era constructions – many of them abandoned and untouched since the collapse of the USSR. I’ve heard there is an abandoned Soviet sports complex near the Genocide Memorial that’s become popular among urbexers in recent years. I’ve never been able to find it – if you have any leads on the exact location, please let me know!

17. Watch the weavers in action at the Megerian Carpet Museum

If you’re a fan of textiles and traditional crafts, don’t miss visiting the Megerian Carpet Museum. The location is a bit further out and requires a taxi ride from the centre, but it’s worth it to visit one of the most interesting places in Yerevan.

This private shop-museum is owned by a local family and exhibits a huge collection of antique and newly woven Armenian and Caucasian rugs. Wander through the carpet-laden rooms and compare the patterns and colours of different regional schools. Weaving and dyeing demonstrations usually take place during the day.

If you’re in the market to buy an Armenian carpet, this is one of the best places to find an authentic original or hand-woven replica.

If you don’t have time to venture out to Megerian, there is a second (much smaller, free) demonstration workshop and carpet museum-shop located in the bottom of Tufenkian Heritage Hotel , near the Vernissage Market (pictured above).

• Location: 9 Madoyan Street
• Get there: 20-minute walk from Garegin Nzhdehi Square metro station or 10-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays)
• Cost: 3,000 AMD

18. Spend an afternoon at the Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe, one of my favourite hidden gems in Yerevan

Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe is my new favourite place in Yerevan. It opened back in 2018, but somehow I didn’t hear about it until 2023.

Born in Nakhchivan in 1946, Lusik Aguletsi was a painter and ethnographer who advocated for the preservation of Armenian culture. She relocated to Yerevan in 1953 and moved into her husband’s family home on a quiet street behind the railway station. This is now the venue for a house-museum dedicated to documenting her life’s work.

Lusik famously wore Armenian national dress every day. A large part of the museum collection is made up of embroidery and textiles that she sewed herself. You can also see a huge assortment of folk puppets, Lusik’s own canvases, and other cultural objects that she collected over her lifetime.

Part of the house has been converted into a restaurant where you can sit down for a meal amongst the antiques. I ordered the cucumber and basil lemonade and the arishta, a traditional Armenian pasta served with vegetables.

It was honestly one of the best meals I have had in Yerevan. I highly recommend eating here, then taking the short tour of the museum.

Lusik Aguletsi House-Museum & Cafe is walking distance from the Sasuntsi David Metro Station. On the way, stop to see the equestrian statue of David of Sassoun , located in front of the equally impressive railway station.

• Location: 79 Muratsan Street
• Get there: 15-minute walk from Sasuntsi David Metro Station
• Opening hours: Daily from 12pm-7pm
• Cost: 2,000 AMD (or 3,000 AMD with a guide)

19. Visit the house museum of filmmaker Sergei Parajanov

Another excellent museum and one of Yerevan’s quirkier institutions, the Sergei Parajanov House Museum is a small museum dedicated to the filmmaker and pioneer of 20th-century cinema who was born in Tbilisi but lived (and died) in Yerevan.

The museum recalls Parajanov’s avant-garde career through a collection of eclectic (sometimes irreverent) films, mixed-media collages and personal possessions . It’s a treasure box of curiosities and there are some truly wonderful art pieces in the mix. You really get a feel for his character and personality when you walk through.

Parajanov’s cult classic film, The Color of Pomegranates (1969), plays on a loop on a TV inside the museum. I highly recommend watching the movie before you visit the Caucasus region . You can buy it on DVD here .

• Location: Dzoragyugh 1st Street
• Get there: 15-minute walk from the Blue Mosque (near Kond)
• Opening hours: 10.30am-5pm daily
• Cost: 1,000 AMD

20. Explore Kond, Yerevan’s oldest neighbourhood

While you’ll probably spend most of your time in Kentron, Yerevan’s central district, you should also get out to explore Kond, a much smaller neighbourhood on the city’s western fringe. This is one of the best places in Yerevan to go for an aimless stroll.

In the absence of an official old town, the accolade of Yerevan’s oldest area goes to Kond. The neighbourhood is elevated on a hillside and can be reached either by steep street or via any one of the narrow staircases that lead up from the main road. Kond is mainly residential with an assortment of character-filled, tumbledown houses , overgrown gardens, and patched-up shacks.

Don’t be expecting a picture-perfect old town; Kond is a bit rough around the edges but beautiful in its own threadbare way. If you enjoy architecture and street photography , this is a great place to get lost for a couple of hours.

While in Kond, don’t miss the Saint Sarkis Cathedral , a humble church made from orange tuff stone sourced from Ani. If you need a break from walking, stop for a coffee and chat at Kondi Hayat , a new cafe in Kond.

21. Walk through the Kond Pedestrian Tunnel to Hrazdan Gorge

The Kond Pedestrian Tunnel is one of the many hidden gems in Yerevan. Built in the Soviet era, the long pedestrian walkway cuts under the Kond neighbourhood, joining the city centre from Saryan Street with Hrazdan Gorge.

Sections of the dimly lit 500-metre tunnel are decorated with graffiti and street art. On any given afternoon you’ll find the tunnel full of couples walking arm in arm, families out for a stroll and kids riding their bicycles.

At the end you emerge in Hrazdan Gorge , an unexpected urban green space that runs along the edge of the city by the river. Emerging from the tunnel on the other side of the rock wall, you almost immediately feel as if you’ve escaped the city and been transplanted to an urban oasis.

This is a great place to stroll in the fresh air. The Armenian Genocide Memorial can be spotted on the hill above the river, and you can follow the low path all the way around to the Ararat Yerevan Brandy Company factory . There’s even a zip line in the gorge.

22. Find the Children’s Railway

As you walk north along Hrazdan Gorge you’ll notice an apricot-coloured, castle-like building peeking out through the shrubs. This is the main station building for the Children’s Railway.

In Soviet times, this miniature railway was an interactive classroom where kids could come and learn about train engineering. The 2-kilometre track is still functioning and in the warmer months, you can see groups of excited little faces peeking out as the locomotive chugs along through the gorge.

The wooden station building is dated 1937 and is a blast from Yerevan’s Soviet past. Photograph the architecture, stroll through the nearby amusement park, or follow the railway track to find a natural swimming pool by the river.

23. See the whimsical wall drawings at the Khnko-Aper Children’s Library

I stumbled on this library completely by accident when looking for places to visit near Freedom Square. After seeing some interesting photos of wall murals on Google Maps, I decided to wander in… As I so often do, I walked through the lobby with purpose and no one gave me a second look.

Armenia’s national children’s library, Khnko-Apor was founded in 1933 and houses a collection of more than half a million books . There are dozens of different reading rooms (including Iranian and German halls) that seat up to 100 people, plus children’s play areas and educational spaces.

Rooms of particular note include the children’s reading room on the second level, and the reading room on the third floor. Both are decorated with hand-drawn illustrations that, as far I can tell, were created in the 1980s.

At first I couldn’t find the murals I was looking for, so I asked a staff member – she spoke perfect English and kindly showed me which doors I should look behind. As I kept exploring, I met a couple of other librarians who were all equally warm towards me and were happy for me to take photos.

• Location: 42/1 Teryan Street
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm

24. Stop by the historic Moscow Cinema

Built in 1936, the Moscow Cinema is one of Yerevan’s main landmarks from the Soviet period. It has been redesigned several times but it has kept the same name (emblazoned on the front entrance in both Armenian and Russian) – and it still serves its original purpose. Its four theatre halls show new release movies and host the annual Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival.

The concave facade has some interesting design details, and on both sides of the building you can see Soviet-style decorations. This is a public building and you are welcome to wander in for a look: As well as movie theatres, there is also a hotel inside (and on the second floor, a free and very clean restroom if you need it!).

I walked up to the movie theatre entrance and made a fabulous discovery – in one corner, partially hidden behind a movie poster, there is a very interesting Soviet-style bas relief that depicts music, theatre and the arts. Named ‘Gorani’ (I assume after the famous Western Armenian folk song), the clay sculpture was created in 1984 by architects B. Arzumanyan and E. Safaryan and artists V. Atanian and A. Hovsepyan.

Yerevan’s Saint Paul and Peter Church once stood on this spot before it was demolished by the Soviets in the early 1930s. Today the cinema opens out onto Charles Aznavour Square , where there is a very cute astrological fountain with Zodiac characters, plus a contemporary spider sculpture by Ara Alekyan crafted with debris from the 1988 Spitak Earthquake.

• Location: 18 Abovyan Street

25. Tour the Ararat Brandy Factory

The orange stone Ararat Brandy Factory building is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Yerevan. Inside, one of Armenia’s most iconic products comes to life: Ararat Brandy.

Established in 1887, Ararat is one of the oldest liquor companies in the Caucasus. The Yerevan facility houses 15,000 barrels – or one third of the company’s stock – and doubles as a museum and tasting room, where you can partake in a guided tour and brandy tasting .

I was always on the fence about whether or not to do the factory tour. On my first few visits to Yerevan, I skipped it – but when I recently visited again with my dad, he was eager to try it.

The tour is quite pricey – we paid 12,000 AMD per person for the most expensive program, the Ararat 10 Tour. That included tastings of three decade-old brandies, Akhtamar, Armenia and Dvin. Regular guided tours without tastings are also available for 4,500 AMD.

Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and professional – I actually really enjoyed the tour. If you have a spare hour and the history of brandy interests you, I think it’s worth adding to your Yerevan itinerary.

Bookings are recommended – we got lucky and arrived just as a group tour was starting, but normally you need a reservation to guarantee your place, especially if you’re visiting in the summer high season.

Competitor company Noy Brandy also offers guided tours and tastings at their facility on the opposite side of Victory Bridge.

• Location: 2 Admiral Isakov Avenue
• Get there: 5-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: Daily from 9am-6pm
• Cost: 4,500-12,000 AMD ( reservations here )

26. Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum & Memorial

While you’re out enjoying the finer things Yerevan has to offer, remember that things haven’t always been so rosy. The events of 1915 cast a long shadow over Armenia and are never too far from people’s memory.

As an Australian I’m embarrassed to admit that I knew nothing about the Armenian Genocide before I arrived in Yerevan. As uncomfortable as it may be, taking the time to learn about this chapter of world history that many of us have forgotten about is an absolutely essential part of any visit to Armenia.

The best place to learn, reflect and pay your respects is at Tsitsernakaberd, the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex. The main part of the outdoor memorial consists of 12 concrete slabs, each representing a lost Armenian province. The eternal flame laid 1.5 metres deep is a tribute to the victims of the genocide.

Located next to the memorial, the Armenian Genocide Museum does an outstanding job of leading visitors through the tragic events of April 24, 1915. At times the exhibition is graphic and utterly gut-wrenching, but at the end you come away with a sense of Armenia’s fighting spirit and a new appreciation for the enduring culture, religion and traditions.

• Get there: 10-minute taxi ride from Republic Square
• Opening hours: 11am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Cost: Free entry (donations welcome)

27. See a show at the Opera Theatre

One of the best things to do in Yerevan at night is dress up in your fanciest attire and catch a performance at the Armenian Opera Theatre.

The circular theatre on Freedom Square opposite the Cascade is enveloped by gardens. The small lake nearby is called Swan Lake – a tribute to the theatre’s first ballet performance in 1935. During the day, this is a lively area with children riding their bikes around the square and cafes set up along the nearby sidewalks.

There are five statues in the square , including the twin effigies of composer Alexander Spendiaryan and poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, both erected in 1957. Look under foot for commemorative plaques dedicated to famous Armenian artists , Hollywood Walk of Fame style. The eastern side of the theatre with the Opera Club entrance is very photogenic.

At night, the theatre lights up and the show begins. There are two halls seating 1400 and 1200 people each. When full, the atmosphere is electric. I was lucky enough to see Swan Lake here in spring 2017.

 If it’s playing, try to see Anoush , the first opera performed in Armenian that’s been on the playbill here since 1935. Otherwise I would suggest just buying tickets for whatever happens to be on – it’s more about the experience.

My trip to the opera in Yerevan was quite unusual. I showed up on the wrong night (I had accidentally bought tickets for the previous night’s performance) and ended up being snuck into the back of the theatre by a friendly stewardess! I had to stay on guard for the first half of the performance in case the rightful ticket holder showed up to claim my seat.

It’s recommended to buy tickets (for the correct night!) in advance from the box office out front. Note that there is no bar inside the theatre. Cloak rooms and bathrooms are downstairs.

• Location: Tumanyan Street
• Performance times: Check the program here

28. Feast on lahmajun & other Armenian delicacies

Much like Georgian food, Armenian cuisine is completely underrated . If you’re not familiar with the tastes and textures, eating out in Yerevan will definitely be a pleasant surprise.

One of my favourite dishes and something I always reach for when visiting Yerevan is lahmajun. Though not strictly an Armenian dish (it is a food culture shared with Turkiye, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East), it is very popular in Yerevan.

Lahmajun is essentially a flatbread topped with various ingredients ranging from vegetables to ground meat to simple Zaatar spice rubs. It always makes for an affordable and tasty meal.

Popular lahmajun joints in Yerevan include:

• Anteb : One of my favourite eateries in Yerevan (see more below), Anteb Restaurant specialises in Western Armenian dishes, including lahmajun.
• Lahmajun Gaidz : For creative lahmajun recipes that incorporate Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours.
• Elie’s Lahmajun : A local favourite close to Republic Square.

29. Grab a drink at Mirzoyan Library, Yerevan’s coolest bar

Yerevan nightlife is quite lively and there is no shortage of things to do once the sun goes down. According to my walking tour guide, Yerevan has more than 500 open-air cafes – I’d say that’s a conservative estimate! At night, you’ll find that many of these cafes transform into trendy wine and cocktail bars .

My favourite place to go for a drink in Yerevan is Mirzoyan Library . Set in a historic courtyard and house, it functions as a photography gallery slash library slash cafe during the day. The space was concocted by photographer Karen Mirzoyan to make her personal collection of fine photography books available to other young artists in the city.

In the evening, you can pull up an antique chair and sit on the rickety verandah or just perch yourself on one of the staircases. Wine and beer are served alongside non-alcoholic drinks. You can browse the books while you sip but you can’t take them home – no library cards here!

• Location: 10 Mher Mkrtchyan Street
• Opening hours: Midday to midnight daily

30. Taste Armenian wine at In Vino

Want to get acquainted with Armenian wine? Yerevan is home to the country’s leading wine bar and shop, In Vino on Saryan Street.

More than 25 wines are available by the glass so you can try a selection of locally produced drops from Areni and Armenia’s other wine-making regions. Prices start from a very reasonable 800 AMD.

For the full experience, pair your plonk with a tasting plate of local cheeses, cured meats and nuts. Delicious desserts also feature on the menu, or for something more substantial you can order a baguette sandwich (sold by the centimetre) or meals from nearby Tapastan.

Formal wine tastings are also available and include 4-6 Armenian wines.

• Location: 6 Martiros Saryan Street
• Opening hours: 11am-midnight daily
• Cost: From 800 AMD for a glass of wine
• Read next: Where to do a wine tasting in Tbilisi, Georgia

BONUS: Learn about the history of Yerevan on a walking tour

The city of Yerevan, like the nation of Armenia, has a long and complicated past. If you really want to sink your teeth into local history and culture while ticking off the major landmarks, then I highly recommend joining a walking tour.

Yerevan is home to an excellent free walking tour program that offers both general and culture-focused itineraries. Tours last 2-2.5 hours (although I ended up spending 4 hours with my guide when we did the introductory tour!), and usually depart from Republic Square. Remember to tip.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace and with your own guide, this private walking tour hits most of the major Yerevan landmarks, including Saint Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, the Opera Theatre, Cafesjian, and Victory Park.

Alternatively, this Evening Walking Tour of Yerevan starts at the Vernissage Market and is perfect if you’re travelling during summer and want to beat the heat of the day. And for something really special, you can tour Yerevan in a vintage GAZ-M20 Pobeda (nicknamed ‘Stalin’s Car’)!

My favourite cafes & restaurants in Yerevan

Anteb: The first place I go whenever I arrive in Yerevan. This no-frills restaurant specialises in Western Armenian cuisine and serves amazing manti dumplings and lahmajun topped flatbread.

Dargett Craft Beer: If wine isn’t your cup of tea, Armenia has a budding craft beer scene with a growing number of specialty bars in Yerevan. Dargett Craft Beer is the city’s leading brew pub, with artisanal beers on tap, a huge selection of bottles, and a menu of crowd-favourite beer snacks (think fish and chips, onion rings and Poutine). Their own craft beers (including stout, pale ale and pilsners) are made in Armenia on local spring water

The Green Bean Cafe: My go-to in Yerevan for good coffee and light, healthy meals. This cafe has a strong focus on fresh, plant-based food but the menu spans a huge range of offerings. There are 3 branches in the city, including one adjacent to the Cascade and another on Amiryan Street.

Sherep: ‘Elevated’ Armenian fare and scrumptious desserts, including a chocolate mousse with local brandy – yum.

Tapastan: Local wines and Armenian dishes served tapas sharing-plate style.

Dolmama: This restaurant is a bit more pricey but it’s a Yerevan institution so I definitely recommend trying it once. The dolma is excellent – obviously!

Yerevan Map

Click here to open my Yerevan City Map in Google Maps .

Recommended day trips from Yerevan

For budget-friendly guided tours from Yerevan, I recommend travelling with Hyur Service . I have personally used them several times. Guides are professional, drivers safe, and although the itineraries are often long, they usually incorporate lots of stops along the way.

Here are some of the most popular day trip options offered by Hyur and other companies. Some of these places can also be visited independently.

Garni Temple & Geghard Monastery: The 1st-century Garni Temple and medieval Geghard Monastery are within a 15-minute drive of each other and are thus often paired as a side trip from Yerevan. Both are visually spectacular and have a fascinating history. This is my top choice of easy day trip, involving roughly 2 hours of driving in total.

This group tour to Garni and Geghard also includes an Armenian lavash-baking demonstration.

Echmiadzin & Zvartnots: Echmiadzin (Vagharshapat) is home to the stunning Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. On the drive from Yerevan, tours often stop at the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral and the much-photographed ring of columns that frames views of Mount Ararat. Total driving time is around 90 minutes. This trip can also be done independently by public transport ( marshrutka ).

This group tour with Hyur Service runs for 4-5 hours and includes Mother See, several smaller churches and Zvartnots.

Khor Virap: Khor Virap monastery is located roughly an hour from Yerevan, very close to the Turkish border. If you want spectacular views of Mount Ararat, this is the place to go.

This trip to Khor Virap with Hyur includes a wine tasting in Areni and a visit to Birds Cave where some of Armenia’s most important archaeological finds were unearthed. They also offer a private 8-hour combination tour to Khor Virap, Garni Temple & Geghard.

Lake Sevan & Dilijan: Armenia’s largest lake and the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery are under 90-minutes drive from Yerevan. This isn’t my top choice of day trip, but it’s a convenient option if you want some fresh air and lake views.

This budget-friendly group tour offered by Hyur visits Dilijan, Armenia’s ‘little Switzerland’, and two beautiful forest monasteries after Lake Sevan.

Tatev Monastery: This iconic monastery accessed by cable car is in Armenia’s far-south and can be visited in a day – but be warned that it requires a lot of driving (around 4.5 hours each way). I did this day trip on my first visit to Armenia and it was tolerable, but only because the tour made lots of stops along the way, including at the wonderful Noravank Monastery. Read my tips for getting to Tatev from Yerevan here .

This terrific Tatev group tour includes a ride on the Wings of Tatev and a guided tour of Tatev Monastery plus a local Armenian lunch, wine tasting at Hin Areni Winery and a stop at Karahundj (Armenia’s Stonehenge). If you want to pack a lot in, this is my top choice of day trip from Yerevan.

Haghpat & Sanahin: This is another long day trip (6 hours on the road at a minimum). If your itinerary allows, I recommend visiting the two UNESCO monasteries in far-northern Lori from Vanadzor instead. (You can also visit from Tbilisi .)

This private tour to Lori from Yerevan includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English speaking guide, and also visits Odzun Monastery in addition to Haghpat and Sanahin.

Headed to Tbilisi next? Check out my list of awesome things to do in Georgia’s capital city and my recommended Tbilisi day trips .

Best time to visit Yerevan

Yerevan is an all-weather city, but there are still defined high/low seasons and times of the year when the forecast is more likely to be on your side.

I would avoid visiting Yerevan in summer (June through to early September) – this is high season when prices go up, plus it’s stifling hot (up to 35 or 40 degrees Celsius in the city). Winters in Yerevan are quite mild, and the temperature rarely drops below zero. January is the coldest month, with average daytime temperatures of 2 degrees.

I first visited Yerevan in spring and still think this is one of the nicest times to visit the city (and Armenia as a whole). May can be a bit rainy, but April/May is generally very pleasant temperature-wise. Outdoor cafes start reopening and you’ll see beautiful flower markets overflowing on every sidewalk. The energy is wonderful.

I had the pleasure of spending Easter in Yerevan and loved observing Easter traditions. I also had a chance to mark Genocide Remembrance Day in Yerevan , a sombre yet heartwarming occasion that commemorates the events on and around April 24, 1915.

Fall (late September to November) is temperate and another nice time of year to visit.

How many days do you need in Yerevan?

To see the highlights, experience Yerevan’s cafe culture and soak up the city atmosphere, I recommend spending at least 2 full days in Yerevan , 3 if possible. You could very easily stay longer – and you might be tempted to!

While you can get a good overview of Yerevan in the space of a day, you will definitely feel rushed and you’ll have to sacrifice on some things.

One of the best things about Armenia is that you can travel almost anywhere in the country from Yerevan and still be back for a late dinner. Thus I also recommend setting aside 1 or 2 additional days for side trips from the capital.

See my favourite day trips from Yerevan listed above.

How to get to Yerevan

Zvartnots International Airport is located 15 kilometres west of Yerevan and is Armenia’s main hub for air travel. The airport is serviced by Qatar Airways, Pegasus, FlyDubai and Wizz Air, making it relatively easy to reach Yerevan from Western Europe, Turkey and the Middle East .

→ Book a private transfer to your hotel in Yerevan here . Prices start from just $13 per group.

If you’re travelling overland, there are several options available for entering Armenia from neighbouring Georgia or Iran. Because of Yerevan’s location and the quality of roads, it’s more convenient to enter from Georgia.

Note that Armenia’s borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey are closed and overland travel is not permitted. If you’re coming from Azerbaijan , you will need to cross through Georgia first. I recommend using the night train to get from Baku to Tbilisi .

How to get to Yerevan from Tbilisi

My preferred way to travel between Georgia and Armenia’s capital cities is on the overnight sleeper train. Trains run every night in the summer high season and every second night in the low season.

Trains are comfortable, safe, fast – and fun. Find my comprehensive guide to the Tbilisi Yerevan train here (and find a code to buy discounted tickets inside).

Marshrutka minivans and taxis are also available. I personally try to avoid long-distance road travel in the Caucasus whenever possible, but if you prefer not to use the railway, then this is another option. The ride takes 5-6 hours on average including border procedures.

Is Yerevan safe for tourists?

Yerevan has very low crime rates overall and although theft and pickpocketing do occur from time to time, the chances of you being targeted as a tourist are very, extremely slim.

In my experience, people in Yerevan are far more likely to shout you a taxi fare or a drink than to try and swindle you (this has happened to me multiple times). Tourist scams do occur, but nowhere near as often as in some Western European capitals.

Based on my own experiences and from talking to other travellers and friends who have lived in Yerevan, this is an extremely safe city overall, even for solo female travellers. I would not hesitate to walk alone down a city street in Yerevan at night, and similarly I would have no reservations about using the metro, visiting crowded places, etc.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t exercise common sense and a normal level of caution when visiting Yerevan. Take care of your belongings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you, and be mindful of personal space.

Be vigilant when crossing the street. Use a taxi app to book cabs or negotiate the fare in advance. Avoid travelling on the road after dark – traffic and road safety are probably the biggest safety issues for tourists in Armenia, just as they are concerns in neighbouring Georgia .

Protests and demonstrations do occur in Yerevan; it’s best to avoid large gatherings in case things get out of hand.

Is Yerevan expensive? Yerevan travel budget

Much like Georgia , Armenia is an extremely budget-friendly destination overall. Being the capital, Yerevan is one of the more expensive places to visit in the country but it’s still very affordable, certainly by European city standards. Personally I find Yerevan a touch more expensive than Tbilisi.

The official currency in Armenia is the Armenian dram or AMD. At the time of writing 1 USD = 515 AMD .

Here are some approximate costs (per person) based on my most recent trip to Yerevan:

• One night in a mid-range hotel/guesthouse: 14,000 AMD (26 USD)
• Meal in a mid-range restaurant: 4000-7000 AMD (7.50-15 USD)
• Latte in a cafe: 1300 AMD (2.40 USD)
• Bottle of Armenian wine: 3500 AMD (6.60 USD)
• Metro fare: 100 AMD (0.20 USD)
• Taxi fare within the city: 500-1000 AMD (1-2 USD)
• Museum ticket: 1000 AMD (1.90 USD)

A mid-range traveller staying in a hotel/guesthouse, eating out twice a day, visiting museums and using a combination of metro and taxis to get around should budget around 25,000 AMD (47 USD) per person per day for Yerevan.

You can very easily reduce your costs by sticking to free attractions (there are plenty on this list), eating local meals, and staying in budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses.

What are your favourite things to do in Yerevan? If you have any tips, please share them in the comments below.

Things to do in Yerevan: Save it to Pinterest

Armenia Travel Guide

Discover insider tips, itinerary inspiration, and all the best things to see, do and experience in Armenia!

Armenia Essentials

My favourite resources and tools for planning a trip to Armenia.

Find affordable flights to Armenia

Yerevan Airport transfer

Save on museums & transport

Hire a car in Armenia

Get an e-visa for Armenia

Find the perfect accommodation

Book city tours & day trips

Order the latest Lonely Planet

More from Armenia

• The Ultimate Armenia Itinerary
• Things to do in Yerevan , 25 must-sees and alternative spots
• Where to find authentic and meaningful Armenian souvenirs in Yerevan
• Don’t miss the GUM Market , Yerevan’s colourful produce hall
• Tips for being a responsible tourist in Armenia
• The best day trip from Yerevan
• Guide to Gyumri , Armenia’s second city
• Guide to visiting the UNESCO monasteries, Haghpat and Sanahin
• How to travel between Armenia and Georgia by overnight train
• 12 things you should know before travelling to the Caucasus

32 Comments

Hi Emily Fantastic web site! Have you visited the Ararat Distillery in Yerevan?, and, do you know of any old record shops in both Armenia and Georgia Thanks Frank

Hi Frank! Yes actually I just visited for the first time a couple of weeks ago. I will be updating this post soon! Are you looking for vintage vinyl specifically? In Georgia the best place for that is the markets – Dry Bridge and Barakholka particularly.

LOVE your write up! went to Georgia/Armenia in 2019 June and LOVED the food, the alcohol,the cities and countries. Advice please: my bday is in March, and I want to take my family to see Yerevan. I LOVED the cafes in the summer. do you think mid-March is a good enough time to introduce my family to Yerevan? I hope so, bc I really want to go and see near my bday (spring break, bc I work in schools and have a 10th grader). thank you?

Thank you Sandy! March is still quite chilly in this part of the world, but I think you’ll still enjoy Yerevan at that time of year. There might be less outdoorsy stuff on (I once visited in April around Orthodox Easter and we had to sit inside to eat most days), but on the plus side it will be nice and quiet.

Your article/blog is so inspiring, we were wondering whether Yerevan/Dilijan is a budget-friendly option to travel from Dubai, and your article says it all. We are planning a 3 day holiday in July. Yes it would be hot, but we are going for it. Your explanation was really helpful, and you have provided so many wonderful options. Planning out an itinerary myself, instead of going through tour agents. So thanks again.

Great Akshaya! Dilijan is a little cooler than the city of course, I think it’ll be quite nice! Enjoy!

One of my my favorite destinations is the observatory on mount Aragats. I’ve been to the telescope many years ago and heard that it is still open for school kids. I was wondering if there are any public options for staying overnight at the Physics Institute and stargazing through the telescope at the observatory.

I had not come across this before but it sounds wonderful! There is something similar here in Georgia at Abastumani. I’m not sure if there is accommodation available but hopefully someone else can answer.

We visited the LUYS book store, which is now called Books 1512. That’s a great find! I remember my first impressions when we were driving from the airport to our hotel, I saw a book store with high security bars, and was laughing that the book store has more security than the exclusive boutiques, but I didn’t realize it was this very store that you mentioned in your blog. It’s so gorgeous inside! I’ve never held such ancient books in my hands before. Thank you!

Great to hear that, Vera! It’s a very special spot. Thank you for the name update!

Been wanting to travel to Armenia since 2008 and tomorrow I actually fly there and your blog on Armenia is getting me psyched! Thanks for many useful tips 😉

Amazing Alejandro! That’s a long time in the making. I hope you love it as much as I do!

So beautiful! It made me even cry when I saw you wrote about Kond as I am from there. I haven’t been to Armenia already 2,5 years, I missed even more my country after reading your incredible descriptions.

Thank you for you comment, Gohar! I hope you get a chance to go back to Yerevan soon. Kond is such an interesting part of the city, I really loved walking those streets and exploring.

I am very excited to be traveling there in May for a week. Do you have a local tour guide that you might recommend? I like to explore but appreciate someone who knows a thing or two. Also, any tried & tested “must see” shops with local flair?

Great to hear! I recommend joining the free walking tour when you arrive.

Here are my favourite shops in Yerevan: https://wander-lush.org/shopping-in-yerevan-armenian-souvenirs/

Enjoy your trip!

Thank you for this amazing information. I left when I was 8 only. I am trying to go back and visit. Hopefully after the pandemic. This is very helpful. I was born in Vanadzor and would love to visit. Thanks again.

I have been to Vanadzor, it’s a lovely city! I haven’t had a chance to post about it yet but I’ll get to it soon. That’s great that you’re planning to go back. You might find this interview I did useful too: https://wander-lush.org/armenia-heritage-tourism/

Let me know if there’s anything at all I can help with. Fingers crossed you can start planning your trip soon!

Great article, informative with colorful pictures, thank you Emily!!

Thanks Sam! Appreciate it 🙂

Emily, thank you for this! I’m an Armenian and am planning to visit for the first time next summer! Thank you for your kind words, I really appreciate it 🙂

Hi Gassia! That’s so exciting! I hope you have fun planning your trip. Feel free to reach out if there’s anything I might be able to help with 🙂

Hi ememelie, I am traveling Armenia right now and it is a pleasure to read your blog if I need some inspiration. Thank you! I was wondering with what kind of camera you’re working? Best, Lena

Thank you, Lena! Glad to hear that 🙂 I use an Olympus OM-D E-M1. It’s a mirrorless digital.

We are planning to visit Yerevan next March , is it enough to explore this city ( and surrounding if possible ) within 4 or 5 days ? thanks in advance for your reply ….

Hi Nurul! Yes, I think 4-5 days would suffice if you’re happy to be busy. In that time you can see the highlights of the city and do a few day trips. Almost everywhere is reachable as a day trip, even Tatev Monastery (I have a post on that too). Consider using a company such as Hyur Service to make things easier.

Yerevan is a wonderful city! I hope you love it!

Could you tell me where you stay in Yerevan, could you recommend the airbnb, or hostel to stay in Yerevan, thanks.

We were in Yerevan for 10 days so we chose to stay at an Airbnb. It was fantastic—one of the best-appointed apartments we’ve ever stayed in, and our host, Arman, was wonderful. Here is the link: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/17788633

Fantastic read! I didn’t know that about the one million/get a metro thing. I love riding on old Soviet metro systems ☺. Reading through your Caucasus posts you’ve cemented the region in my travel thoughts! I’ve heard lots of great things about Yerevan, your photos capture it beautifully.

Glad to have found your blog!

Thanks so much, Kim! Yerevan is a wonderful city. I’m sure you would love it!

Thank you for sharing your experience! My dad’s family is Armenian and I have always wanted to visit the country.

Thank you, Elizabeth! We really enjoyed Armenia, particularly the warm hospitality. I hope you get to visit soon!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

Must-see attractions in Yerevan

Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum

Commemorating the massacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1922, this institution uses photographs, documents, reports and films to…

History Museum of Armenia

Its simply extraordinary collection of Bronze Age artefacts make this museum Armenia's pre-eminent cultural institution and an essential stop on every…

Cafesjian Center for the Arts

Housed in a vast flight of stone steps known as the Cascade, this arts centre is one of the city's major cultural attractions. Originally conceived in the…

Sergei Parajanov Museum

For something totally unique, head to this museum near Hrazdan Gorge. Crammed with collages, drawings, photographs and assemblages created by the…

Matenadaran

Standing at the top of Yerevan’s grandest avenue, this cathedral-like manuscript library is a source of enormous pride to all Armenians. The first…

Republic Square

From dawn till late into the night, Republic Sq is Yerevan's focal point and beating heart. Designed by architect Alexander Tamanyan as part of his 1924…

Centre of Popular Creation

Its somewhat esoteric name means that many visitors to Yerevan overlook this museum. This is a great shame, as it is home to the best folk-art collection…

Martiros Sarian Museum

This museum preserves the studio and some of the works of 20th-century painter Martiros Sarian, known for his vibrant colour-saturated canvases. On the…

Yervand Kochar Museum

Though small, this fascinating museum does a great job of documenting the life and work of the prolific Armenian painter and sculptor. The museum…

National Gallery of Armenia

Housed on the top floors of the History Museum, Armenia's foremost art gallery holds a large but somewhat underwhelming collection of European and Russian…

Modern Art Museum of Yerevan

When it opened in 1972, this was the first specialised museum of contemporary and modern art in the Soviet Union, and a source of enormous pride for the…

Levon's Divine Underground

All Tosya Arakelyan wanted was for her husband Levon to build her a potato cellar. What she got in return was an extremely intricate seven-level…

The tiny 13th-century chapel incongruously known as the Katoghike (Cathedral) nestles beside the recently constructed Surp Anna Church. It has a…

Zoravor Church

Through a dalan (archway) on Parpetsi St tucked between Soviet apartment blocks is a late-17th-century church on the site of a 9th- to 13th-century…

Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Museum-Reserve

This archaeological site dates from 782 BC, three decades before Rome was established. It gives insight into daily life in the palace of Argishti I, one…

Mother Armenia Military Museum

There's symbolism aplenty in this huge 22m-high memorial above the Cascade. Mother Armenia's stern visage, military stance and massive sword project a…

Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum

This museum celebrates the life and work of the extraordinary writer, translator and humanist who is often described as Armenia’s greatest poet. The…

Surp Grigor Lusavorich Cathedral

Built to celebrate 1700 years of Christianity in Armenia and consecrated in 2001, this is the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The…

Blue Mosque

There has been a mosque on this site since 1765, but like the other eight or so mosques that operated in Yerevan at the beginning of the 20th century it…

Armenian Centre for Contemporary Experimental Art

In a central location facing the popular Vernissage Market, this slightly down-at-heel arts centre is the hub of the city's avant-garde, hosting concerts,…

Charles Aznavour Square

Named after the beloved French-Armenian singer often referred to as Paris' Frank Sinatra, the square is focused on the Moscow Cinema, built in 1936 on the…

Martiros Sarian Statue

This marble sculpture by D Yerevantsi honours the painter Martiros Sarian (1880–1972). Around the statue is a vernissage with many imitations of Sarian's…

Karmir Blur

The Urartian king Rusa II moved his capital from Erebuni to this nearby site in the 7th century. Sadly, few traces of his fortified citadel remain.

• Destinations
• Travel Checklist
• Travel By Sea (Ferries)

25 Amazing Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia in 2023

Quick Breakdown of the Best Yerevan Tours 1. Yerevan Food and Walking Tour 2. Ararat Brandy Fatory Tour 3. Garni Temple & Kor Virap Tour Best Places to Stay in Yerevan 1. Budget: Bonvenon Capsule Hostel 2. Mid-Range: 4Room Hotel 3. Luxury: Golden Palace Hotel

With its stunning architecture, rich history, delicious food, and friendly locals, Yerevan, the capital of beautiful Armenia , is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Yerevan to help you plan your trip.

I’ve lived in Yerevan since the beginning of 2023 and have explored the city extensively. I’ll tell you all there is to know about the best places to visit in Yerevan, including many hidden gems that aren’t on the tourist trail.

Yerevan has a European feel with lots of streetside cafes and restaurants, with an obvious Soviet influence from Armenia’s time as part of the USSR. The city is also perfectly situated for exploring the nearby mountains and monasteries that dot the land and makes an excellent base for exploring Armenia.

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

1. take a walking tour of the city.

I always find one of the best ways to get to know a new city is to take a walking tour, and this is definitely one of the best things to do in Yerevan. This way you get to take in some of the top Yerevan attractions with a local guide and learn a little of the history of the place.

This 4-hour walking tour takes in some of the best places to visit in Yerevan including Republic Square, the Cascade Complex, Vernissage open-air market, the Opera House, Abovyan Street (the oldest in the city) and many small parks and squares.

The tour is conducted by a knowledgeable, local English-speaking guide and also includes tasting some local treats such as lavash bread, sea buckthorn juice and tea and coffee. You’ll also get to visit Mirzoyan Library, one of my favorite places in the city and a real hidden gem.

The price is $48 per person. Click here to find out more and check availability.

2. Explore the Cascade Complex

The Cascade Complex is a giant staircase that leads up to Victory Park and offers stunning views of the city and Mount Ararat. Inside the complex is a series of escalators going to the top for those who don’t fancy the steps.

Along the way, visitors can admire numerous sculptures, fountains, and gardens. The complex is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, which showcases modern and contemporary art in a stunning setting.

Sunset is an excellent time to visit and witness the sweeping views of the city and Mount Ararat. There are numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants with terraces located at the bottom of Cascade (and one of my favorites, the Green Bean is just around the corner).

Address: 10 Tamanyan St, Yerevan 0009. Click here for directions . How to get there: Cascade is in the center of the city and a ten-minute walk from Republic Square. The nearest metro station is Yeritasardakan, a five-minute walk away. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: The steps are open 24/7 and the inside gallery and escalators are open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.

3. See Republic Square

Republic Square is the central hub of Yerevan and is a great place to start your tour of the city. The square is surrounded by beautiful pink tuff buildings and is home to the National Gallery and the History Museum of Armenia.

The square is also a popular spot for concerts and events, and in the summer, it is filled with outdoor cafes and street vendors.

Address: Republic Square, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: Republic Square is in the city center. The nearest metro station is (surprisingly) Republic Square. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 24/7

4. Visit Victory Park

Victory Park is located on a hill above the city and is home to the Mother Armenia statue, some old soviet military vehicles and an amusement park with Ferris wheels and other rides ad attractions.

There’s a boating lake surrounded by cafes and restaurants, and the views of the city are fantastic. On a clear day you can see Mount Ararat towering over Yerevan. This is somewhere I like to stroll in the evenings thanks to its lively atmosphere.

You can walk to Victory Park from the city center by climbing the Cascade (or taking the elevators). Entrance to the park is free though you’ll need to pay for the rides and amusements.

Address: Azatutyan Ave, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: The best way to reach Victory Park is to climb the cascade. When you get to the very top, walk past the Soviet memorial and cross the street using the underpass to get to the main entrance. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: The park is open 24/7, but the amusements and cafes are open until around 10 pm.

5. See the Mother Armenia Monument

One of the top things to see in Yerevan is the 51-metre (167-foot) Mother Armenia Statue. It’s located in Victory Park high above the city and is one of the most enduring symbols of Armenia. The statue, which was constructed in 1967 by Armenian sculptor Ara Harutyunyan can be seen from across the city.

The statue is based on a real-life person; 17-year-old Genya Muradian, who Harutunyan met by chance while out shopping and convinced her to pose for the sculpture. This symbolic guardian of Yerevan watches over the city and symbolizes peace through strength.

Each year on Victory Day (9th May), local residents flock to lay flowers at the foot of Mother Armenia to commemorate Armenian soldiers who perished during the Second World War. The views of Yerevan from the statue are also some of the best in the city thanks to its elevation.

Address: 2 Azatutyan Ave, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: Ascend the Cascade, cross the Square, take the underpass, and walk through Victory Park to the monument. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 24/7

6. Take a tour of the Ararat Brandy Factory

The Ararat Brandy Factory is one of Armenia’s most famous producers of brandy. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and learn about the history of brandy-making in Armenia, as well as sample some of the factory’s best products.

The tour includes a visit to the aging cellars, where visitors can see barrels of brandy that have been aging for decades. I’ve developed quite a taste for Ararat brandy and it certainly helped keep the cold at bay during my winter stay in the city.

And it seems I’m not the only one who’s partial to a sip, as Stalin is said to have gifted a bottle to Churchill at the Yalta Conference, and ever since Winston ordered bottles every year as he liked it so much.

Take a one-hour tasting tour at the Ararat factory. Book today with Get Your Guide .

Address: 2 Admiral Isakov Ave, Yerevan 0082. Click here for directions . How to get there: The factory is across Victory Bridge that crosses Hrzdan Gorge. It’s a short walk from Kilikia bus station. Entrance Fee: 4,500 drams ($11) for a standard tour of the museum. Opening Hours: 9 am to 8 pm every day. Website: araratbrandy.com

7. Visit the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial

The Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial is a sobering reminder of the tragic events that took place in Western Armenia (present-day Turkey) in the early 20th century.

The museum features exhibits and artifacts that document the genocide, as well as a memorial that honors the victims. It’s an important and emotional experience for visitors who want to learn more about Armenian history and pay their respects to those who were lost.

The museum is located on a hill overlooking Yerevan and includes a series of sculptures, an eternal flame and a museum with photographs and other exhibits charting the atrocities.

Address: 8, 8 Tsitsernakaberd Hwy, Yerevan 0028. Click here for directions . How to get there: The best way to get to the complex is by taxi (use GG or Yandex). You can also walk from the center which takes around an hour. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 11 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Website: genocide-museum.am

8. Visit the Armenian Opera and Ballet Theatre

The Armenian Opera and Ballet Theatre is a beautiful building located in the heart of Yerevan. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including operas, ballets, and concerts. Outside there is a large square and park popular with families, and an open-air ice skating rink in winter.

There are also lots of bars and restaurants in the park next to the Theatre. Check the website to see what’s currently on.

Address: Tumanyan St, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: Opera is situated at the top of Northern Avenue between Republic Square and Cascade. The nearest metro station is Yeritasardakan. Opening Hours: Check the website for performance times. Website: opera.am

9. Shop for Souvenirs at Vernissage Market

The Vernissage Market is a sprawling outdoor bazaar that offers a wide variety of souvenirs, crafts, and other handmade goods. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and mementos to bring home from your trip to Armenia.

The market is open seven days a week and attracts both locals and tourists. Exploring the stalls is one of my favorite things to do in Yerevan at the weekend and I’ve bought a few souvenirs (an Armenian flag and an army cap).

I’m currently thinking about buying one of the handmade chess boards for sale (prices start from around 20,000 drams / $50). There are also food and drinks stalls selling hot and cold snacks and a pleasant park with fountains adjacent to the market.

Address: 1, 3 Buzand St, Yerevan 0010. Click here for directions . How to get there: Vernissage is a five-minute walk from Republic Square. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm every day.

10. Visit the Matenadaran

The Matenadaran is a museum and research institute dedicated to the study of ancient Armenian manuscripts. It houses one of the largest collections of manuscripts in the world, with over 23,000 manuscripts and more than 5,000 printed books.

You can take a guided tour of the museum (English-speaking guide 3,000 drams/$7.50) and see some of the most beautiful and rare manuscripts, including the oldest surviving copy of the Armenian Bible.

Address: 53 Mesrop Mashtots Ave, Yerevan 0009. Click here for directions . How to get there: The Matenadaran is just a couple of minutes’ walk from Cascade at the very top of Mesrop Mashots Avenue. Entrance Fee: 1,500 drams ($3.75) Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Website: matenadaran.am

11. Visit the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque , also known as the Mosque of Ali, is a beautiful example of Shia Islamic architecture in Yerevan. It was built in the 18th century by Persian architect Mirak Mirza, and is named for its striking blue tiles.

Although it is no longer used as a mosque, visitors can still admire its intricate details and learn about its history.

Address: 12 Mesrop Mashtots Ave, Yerevan 0015. Click here for directions . How to get there: The Blue Mosque is quite central and an easy walk from Cascade or Republic Square. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 10 am to 1 pm, and 3 pm to 6 pm every day. Website:

12. Stroll Down Northern Avenue

Northern Avenue is Yerevan’s main pedestrian street, a little like the Arbat in Moscow. Each side is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants, and there are street artists and performers entertaining passers-by.

The Avenue runs from Abovyan Street in the south to the Opera and Ballet Theatre in the north and is a great place for a stroll day or night. I sometimes come to one of the cafes here to work as it has a great vibe.

Northern Avenue is definitely one of the places to go in Yerevan if you want to do some shopping, relax in a café and people watch or check out the entertainers and street performers.

13. See the Statues at Children’s Park

Children’s Park, also known as Kirov Park, is located a few minutes walk south of Republic Square and is known for its cute statues of children frolicking amidst a series of water displays and fountains.

It’s one of the fun places to visit in Yerevan for kids and adults alike, and in summer you can dash through jets of water or run under an arch-shaped fountain without trying to get wet (I tried and failed).

Address: Grigor Lusavorich Street, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: Children’s Park is located behind Shahumyan Square a five-minute walk south of Republic Square. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 24/7

14. See Swan Lake (and Go Ice Skating in Winter)

Swan Lake is located in the park behind the Opera House and at the top of Northern Avenue pedestrian street. It’s a pleasant place for a stroll at any time of the year and I regularly walk around the lake or pop into one of the nearby bars and restaurants.

Every winter when the lake freezes over it opens up for ice skating, and this is definitely one of the things to do in Yerevan during winter if you’re not afraid of falling over (no comment).

The last few times I’ve walked past Swan Lake there has been a guy playing the Piano (even when it was raining, he was under a little cover). So, if you’re looking for somewhere to take a break while out exploring, shopping etc, this is the perfect place to sit and relax for a while.

Address: Teryan Street, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to get there: Swan Lake is located inside the park at the end of Northern Avenue and on the corner of Tumanyan and Teryan Street, just behind the Opera House. Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 24.7

15. Walk Through the Kond Tunnel to Hrazdan Gorge

One of the coolest things to do in Yerevan is to walk through the tunnel from Kond to Hrazdan Gorge. I discovered this tunnel by accident on my first visit and what a pleasant surprise it was. The tunnel stretches for 480 metres (1,575 feet) under Yerevan and is covered in lots of interesting graffiti.

This is definitely one of the most Insta-worthy spots in the city and the nearby neighborhood of Kond is also well worth a visit as it’s the oldest suburb and filled with shanty houses and narrow lanes clinging to the hillside.

Insider’s Tip: When you get to Hrazdan Gorge at the other end of the tunnel, do not take pictures above as there are sensitive buildings above the tunnel and you may get told off by the police (I speak from experience).

Address: Kond Pedestrian Tunnel. Click here for directions . How to get there: Walk down Mesrop Mashots Avenue until you reach the park and head northwest to the end of the park and you’ll see the entrance. Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Price: Free

16. Drink a Pint of Dargett, Yerevan’s Number 1 Craft Beer

I’m a huge lover of craft beers (or real ales as they have always been known in England) and you may be surprised to learn that Yerevan has plenty of places to indulge. The oldest and best brewery on the scene here though is Dargett.

The Dargett Taphouse is located on Aram Street next to the park and a few steps from the entrance to Kond tunnel. This was the first proper brewpub in Yerevan and it doesn’t disappoint.

Choose from a range of IPAs, lagers, fruit beers and much more (my favorite is the Pale Ale). There is also an extensive food menu with dishes from around the globe. You can sit inside or out, and it’s somewhere I like to go for a couple of beers on a summer’s afternoon.

Dargett also runs a new(ish) craft beer bar on Teryan Street called Vertigo which has a massive selection of imported beers (and great music choices). Enjoying a pint or three is definitely one of the best things to do in Yerevan at night for beer lovers like myself.

Address: 72 Aram Street, Yerevan 0001. Click here for directions . How to Get There: The Dargett Brew Pub is on Aram Street which is just off the main Marshots Mashots Avenue and an easy walk from Republic Square or Cascade. Opening Hours: 11 am to 12 am every day. Website: dargett.com

17. Visit St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church

One of the first Armenian churches I discovered in Yerevan was the St. Astvatsatsin Kathoghike Church, also known in English as Saint Annes. This city-center church is located a short walk from Cascade on the intersection of Sayat Nova and Abovyan and is a fine example of Armenian religious architecture.

There has been a church at this site since at least 1264 with inscriptions dating to this time, but due to earthquakes, Soviet anti-religious sentiment and other factors the church has been rebuilt many times since, with the current church dating to 2009.

Address: 17 Abovyan St, Yerevan 0001. Click here for directions . How to Get There: Walk east along Sayat Nova from Cascade. The church is a few minutes walk from Yeritasardakan metro. Opening Hours: 9 am to 8 pm every day. Entrance Price : Free

18. Drink from a Pulpulak

One thing you’ll notice about Yerevan is the number of drinking fountains that can be found in all the parks and across many places in the city. These fixtures that are somewhat unique to Armenia are called “pulpulak” as that is the noise they make.

The tradition dates back to the 1920s and you’ll find these in all public squares, parks, and across the city. The most famous pulpulak is called Yotnaghbyur and is located in Republic Square. These are very handy, especially in the hot summers, and I’ve often drank from them when out and about.

19. Take a Hidden Gems Classic Car Tour

Explore some of the top Yerevan attractions in style as you cruise through the city in a classic soviet era car. This two-hour tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an experienced local guide, and alcoholic (or non) drinks.

You’ll get to see top sights including the Mother Armenia statue, Cascade, the Opera House, and much more on this seriously stylish journey around the city. The price is $49 per person and there are options in English, Arabic, Armenian, French, and Russian. Click here to check availability .

20. Enjoy Armenian cuisine

Armenian cuisine is a delicious fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, and there are plenty of great restaurants in Yerevan where you can sample traditional dishes. Some must-try dishes include khorovats (Armenian barbecue), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and lavash (Armenian flatbread).

Dolma is one of my favorite Armenian dishes and is served in most local restaurants. You can choose from vine leaves or cabbage leaves (I prefer the latter) and the dish is similar to Sarma in the Baltics. Shaurma is another of my favorite local snacks which can be found everywhere.

This 3.5-hour walking tour includes 6 stops at eateries where you can taste some classic Armenian dishes and drinks as well as taking in some of the top Yerevan tourist attractions such as the Cascade complex. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. Book today with Get Your Guide .

21. Explore Erebuni Fortress

Erebuni Fortress is an ancient citadel that was built in 782 BC by King Argishti I. It is considered the birthplace of Yerevan and is an important archaeological site. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress and learn about its history and significance.

I visited Erebuni Fortress a couple of weeks ago and was impressed by both the small museum and the large archaeological ruins that you can wander around at pleasure. The views of the city and nearby mountains are also incredible.

Erebuni is a suburb of Yerevan and easy to reach from the center by bus or taxi (taxi is easier for tourists). Allow an hour or two to visit the museum and ruins. There’s a small gift shop selling local handcrafts, prints and other souvenirs.

Address: 2 3rd St, Yerevan. Click here for directions . How to Get There: A taxi from central Yerevan should cost around 1,000 to 1,500 drams using GG or Yandex, and take around 20 minutes. Opening Hours: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Entrance Price: 1,500 drams ($3.75)

22. See the Impressive Ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral

Zvartnots Cathedral is located in a suburb of Yerevan close to the main international airport and on the way to Echmiadzin. This is somewhere I had wanted to visit on my first trip but didn’t get the chance. I went recently and it didn’t disappoint.

Here you’ll find the remains of a 7th-century medieval cathedral that looks more reminiscent of a classical Greek or Roman temple. With a stunning backdrop of Mount Ararat, this is definitely one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Yerevan.

There’s a small museum at the back of the ruins with relics on display and some interesting exhibitions charting the history of Armenia. There’s also a small gift shop selling books and other souvenirs.

I visited as part of a tour to Echmiadzin visiting various Armenian churches and cathedrals, but the ruins at Zvartnots were definitely the highlight for me.

Address: Vagharshapat, Armenia. Click here for directions . How to Get There: A taxi from central Yerevan should cost around 3,000 drams ($7.50). This excellent tour also includes Zvartnots on its itinerary (the one I went on recently). Opening Hours: 10 am to 5:30 pm, Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm, Sunday. Entrance Price: 1,300 drams ($3.25)

23. Garni Temple

The Greco-Roman Garni Temple is one of the most impressive historical sights in Armenia and oe of the best places to visit near Yerevan. The structure is over 2,000 years old and is the only surviving pre-Christian temple in the country.

It takes around half an hour to an hour to reach Garni from Yerevan depending on your mode of transport. I took a marshrutka which leaves from the bus station on Gai Avenue and it took about 30 minutes.

The temple overlooks Garni Canyon and the views are mesmerizing. Be sure to also visit the nearby Symphony of Stones; large hexagonal columns stretch to impressive heights up the rock face. Book a Tour to Garni with Get Your Guide .

Address: Garni 2215, Armenia. Click here for directions . How to Get There: Take the marshrutka from the stop on Gai Avenue, or book a tour from Yerevan. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs 500 drams ($1.25). Opening Hours: 9 am to 10 pm every day. Entrance Price: 1,500 drams ($3.75)

24. Echmiadzin

I recently took this tour to some of Armenia’s holiest places just a short ride from Yerevan. The tour includes Echmiadzin Mother Cathedral which dates back to the fourth century and is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.

The tour also takes in St. Echmiadzin, St. Hripsime’s Church and the personal highlight for me, the ruins of Zvartnots Temple (with majestic Mount Ararat in the background). The three-hour tour departs and returns to Yerevan City Centre (Republic Square). Click here to check availability .

25. Khor Virap

Ipressive Khor Virap is another of y favorite places to visit near Yerevan. This monastery sits on a hill 5 miles (8km) from the Turkish border and in the shadow of mighty Mount Ararat. Book with Get Your Guide .

Check out this Armenia itinerary for more things to do in this incredible country.

Getting To Yerevan

There are flights to and from European destinations including Greece, Bulgaria and Germany. Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport is just 9 miles (14km) from the city centre.

There are daily marshrutkas from Tbilisi in Georgia and the cost is 50 Lari ($20) and the journey time around six hours including the border crossing.

Getting Around Yerevan

Most central areas such as Cascade, the Opera House and Republic Square are within walking distance.

There is a one-line metro system for places farther afield. Buses and marshrutkas also cover the whole city but you’ll need to know which one to get for your destination.

You can hail taxis on the street but it’s cheaper to use an app. I use GG and most journeys within the city cost under 1,000 AMD ($2.60).

Places to Stay in Yerevan

Having lived in Yerevan for a few months I stayed at many of the city’s hostels and will tell you about the best ones (and leave out the ones that were not so good). Check out my guide to the best Yerevan Hostels .

Bonvenon (my top pick)

This is my favorite hostel in Yerevan. The beds are large and private with plug sockets and air conditioning. The hostel is kept clean by the friendly owner, Jack. Perfect location 5 minutes walk from Cascade and 10 minutes from Republic Square.

Check prices on Booking.com

Envoy Hostel

An excellent backpacker’s hostel in the center of the city five minutes from Cascade. There is a large common room and kitchen in the basement with desks and good wifi.

Check prices on Hostelworld.com

Center Hostel

A pleasant hostel around the corner from Republic Square with helpful staff. There is also a one-bedroom private apartment downstairs which I rented for one night and was very comfortable.

4Room Hotel

A pleasant ad relatively inexpensive hotel in central Yerevan. Rooms come with free WiFi, an en-suite bathroom and complimentary toiletries.

Check the price on Booking.com

Where to Eat in Yerevan

Mirzoyan library.

A friend took me to this amazing establishment after we took a tour to Echmiadzin and Svartnots Cathedral. You go in through a nondescript doorway in a large residential building and then it opens up into a huge courtyard with trees, plants and photographs (the owner is a professional photographer).

There are three levels so you can sit in the courtyard, or overlooking it, and there’s also plenty of space to sit inside upstairs or downstairs. It’s the perfect place to while away a lazy afternoon over coffee, a bottle of wine or a few cocktails.

There’s also a food menu with salads, pasta, shuarma and other hot and cold snacks. It’s not the cheapest place in the city, but it’s also not too expensive and the ambiance is well worth it. I’m going to make Mirzoyan a regular haunt as it’s also a great place to work from. Click here for directions .

Twelve Tables

This cozy little restaurant a five-minute walk from Cascade and Opera is run by my friend’s girlfriend. You wouldn’t necessarily know it’s a restaurant as there is a front-facing arts and crafts shop, but when you go through the back it opens up into two quaint dining rooms with, you guessed it, 12 tables.

The menu includes some tasty baguettes (I had ham, cheese, olives and mushroom, a large selection of salads, pastas and grilled meats. There’s also an extensive drinks menu from teas, coffees and fresh juices to beers, cocktails, and some excellent local wines (the Monte Noah was delicious).

It’s one of the more inexpensive cafe-restaurants in Yerevan and has a bohemian vibe without coming across as pretentious. I’ll definitely be going back (certainly for more of the wine). Click here for directions .

Right next to Twelve Tables (literally) is Yerevan’s premiere burger joint (opened by Rudy who now runs Rock’n’Rolla). I’m not a massive burger guy, but I went here feeling slightly hungover one lunchtime and I have to say, it certainly hit the spot.

*Disclaimer: Although some of the establishments are owned and run by friends and acquaintances, I didn’t receive anything for recommending them and they didn’t ask me to write reviews. However, if any of you are reading this and want to buy me a beer, I won’t say no… 😉

There are lots of fast food places around Yerevan including KFC and Pizza Hut. However personally my favourite fast food here is shwarma or shaurma (meat and vegetables wrapped in traditional Armenian Lavash flatbread. You can get it all over the city, but Tumanyan Shuarma on Tumanyan Street is one of the best.

Bars and Pubs in Yerevan

There are lots of great bars in the city centre and the most popular include the Dargett Taproom (Dargett is the local craft beer brewery and they make an excellent pale ale), The Beatles Pub and the Irish Bar. My favorite though is Rock’n’Rolla which is owned by a friend of mine (shout out to my bro Rudolph).

Most bars in Yerevan are underground so can be easy to miss, but they usually have signs outside near the steps. Smoking is not permitted indoors.

Rock’n’Rolla

The best bar in Yerevan with craft beers on tap (Dargett brews a special IPA for Rock’n’Rolla which can’t be found anywhere else) and there is an excellent cocktail menu. Fresh sandwiches and other bar snacks are available (I highly recommend the sandwiches) and the music is a mixture of hard rock and heavy metal.

See the location on Google maps

Dargett Taproom and Microbrewery

Home of Yerevan’s purveyors of premium craft beer, the Dargett Tap Room is a lively bar in the centre of the city that attracts a youngish crowd. As well as many excellent beers on tap, there is an extensive menu featuring burgers and other foods.

The Beatles Pub

If you’re looking for a great selection of beers and an extensive menu including British classics, head to The Beatles Pub (they do an excellent Sunday roast). There are eight draught beers on tap, and over 200 whiskeys and they have live music on weekends.

Vertigo Craft Beer Bar

This cozy little bar on Teryan Street is run by the owners of Dargett Brewery and stocks an impressive range of craft beers from around the world. It stocks plenty of my favourite Belgian Trappist beers including Trappist Rochefort, Marsdeous, Dubbel, Chimay, Orval and more.

Conclusion – Is Yerevan Worth Visiting?

With so many excellent things to do in Yerevan the city is definitely worth visiting. With sights and attractions from the Opera House and Cascade to excellent bars and restaurants and some pretty amazing day trips, Yerevan should be high on the list of every traveller.

Check out my other guides to Armenia

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• South Africa
• El Salvador
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Czech Republic
• Transnistria
• Liechtenstein
• North Cyprus
• New Zealand
• Map with posts
• Alternative Guides
• Architecture Guides
• Cafe Guides
• Itineraries
• Neighborhood Guides
• Travel Guides
• Travel Tips
• Photo Galleries
• Photo Locations
• Solo female travel
• Train Travels
• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

31 Amazing Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

Last Updated on 15/05/2024 by kami

Yerevan, Armenia is one of my favorite places, the city I always love returning to and the one that makes it so hard for me to leave every single time. I can’t imagine a trip to Armenia without visiting Yerevan.

And even if I’ve been to the capital of Armenia so many times (over the years I spent a few months there in total) every time I visit Yerevan I have a new list of things to do in Yerevan. Because there is just so much to see, do and experience there!

And now it’s about time I share with you the list of my favorite Yerevan attractions so you know what to do in Yerevan when you visit the capital of Armenia.

To be honest, the city is not the most beautiful one, especially not in a classical way, but with so many things to do in Yerevan, you will be busy for at least two days and eventually will want to return for more.

That was the story with me however, after my first trip to Yerevan in July 2012 I wasn’t too crazy about the city. It had to grow on me but now I consider Yerevan to be one of “my” places, the one I’m a bit crazy about and wouldn’t mind living there for a while.

Yerevan essentials

• Airport transfer: Pre-book the airport transfer from Yerevan airport to your accommodation in Yerevan here .
• Where to stay in Yerevan: Teryan Pushkin Apart Hotel (9.6/10) / R&R Hotel (9.1/10)
• Best Yerevan tour: Private sightseeing and walking tour in Yerevan
• Best day trip from Yerevan: Private 7-8 hour Trip to Garni – Geghard – Lake Sevan – Sevanavank from Yerevan
• Get insured for your trip to Armenia with SafetyWing

Short History of Yerevan, Armenia

You might be surprised but Yerevan is actually older than Rome, Italy . Not long ago the city celebrated its 2800th birthday.

That’s because in the year 782 B.C. the Erebuni Fortress was built on the territory of Yerevan and it is said the city developed from it. Over the centuries Yerevan often changed its state belongingness but never really played an important role.

Until the beginning of the 19th century, it was just a provincial town but once Yerevan became the part of the Russian Empire the city grow rapidly with its biggest development in the 20th century.

For the very short time, between 1918 and 1920, Yerevan was the capital of independent Armenia before it became part of Russia and the Soviet Union again. Since 21st September 1991, when Armenia regained the independence, Yerevan is again the capital city of the country again.

Best time to visit Yerevan

It’s great to visit Yerevan all year long but there are moments when this might not be the best idea.

If this is your first trip to Yerevan (or Armenia in general) I would avoid summer months, simply because it can be too hot, even over +40C. This makes sightseeing almost impossible as you can’t fully enjoy the place and all you can think of is finding some shadow or better yet, the air-conditioned room.

Your chances of seeing Mount Ararat – the holy mountain of Armenians – are also slim then as it’s often pretty hazy in the summer months.

Another time I would advise against visiting Yerevan is the New Year and Christmas time. Just recently I was in Yerevan exactly at that time and everything was closed: shops, museums, numerous restaurants, and cafes – everything!

The choice of places to go out, have a coffee or eat something was very limited and the majority of my favorite places was just closed. You don’t want to deal with this feeling of disappointment!

On the contrary, I would recommend visiting Yerevan in late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant but not too hot, days are long and sunny and you can fully focus on Yerevan sightseeing.

How to get to Yerevan

The majority of people traveling to Yerevan arrive either by plane or by land from Tbilisi, Georgia .

These days there are more and more airlines serving Yerevan airport, including low-cost flights with Ryanair and Wizzair. That makes getting to Yerevan so much easier and cheaper.

I usually use LOT Polish Airlines – they are not the cheapest (I usually buy my tickets when they are on sale) but I definitely appreciate the direct flights to Yerevan from Warsaw.

Zvartnots International Airport is located around 12 kms from the center and is connected with the city by bus or marshrutka.

Taxis are also very affordable, especially with Yandex Taxi (a local Uber) you shouldn’t pay more than 2.000 AMD. There is free wifi at the airport which should make ordering a taxi via the Yandex app much easier, you can also buy a local SIM card at the airport.

If you come from Tbilisi to Yerevan you will arrive either to Kilikia bus station (around 2,5 kilometer from the center, bus no 5 goes to the center) or the train station (you can get there by metro, station Sasuntsi David).

Click here to read in full details all about getting from Tbilisi to Yerevan.

How many days should you spend in Yerevan

I honestly think that you should plan at least 2 days in Yerevan but of course the more the merrier. I’ve spent around 2 months in Yerevan in total and still haven’t seen all Yerevan attractions I’ve wanted to, my list of things to do in Yerevan is only growing.

In those two days, you can see all the major attractions and sights, visit some museums and enjoy the city to the fullest.

While Yerevan is a very walkable city and you can get to most of the places on foot, there are a few sights, like the Armenian Genocide Memorial, that are located a bit away from the center (Yandex Taxi will come handy again).

Where to stay in Yerevan

The best area to stay in Yerevan is, of course, the city center so you can be close to all the attractions.

My personal favorite part of the city for Yerevan accommodation is between Pushkin street, Tumanyan street, Mesrop Mashtots Avenue and Nalbandyan street. I feel it’s the most central area and walking just about anywhere doesn’t take too long.

Here are some of the recommended places to stay in Yerevan:

• R&R Hotel (9.2/10 on Booking) – I stayed there the last time I was in Yerevan and really enjoyed it. The price was very affordable for the standard, the location and the delicious breakfast.
• Moscow Boutique Hotel (9.0/10 on Booking) – located in the famous Moscow Cinema building.
• Teryan Pushkin Apart Hotel (9.4/10 on Booking)
• and many more!

Yerevan Card

If you plan to visit museums (and you definitely should include some of them in your Yerevan itinerary) I recommend getting the Yerevan Card – the official city pass. Not only you will get free admission to most of the museums, but the card also offers free transfer from the airport, free metro rides, numerous discounts all over the city and more.

Click here to get your Yerevan Card!

Things to do in Yerevan

So now that you know the basics of visiting Yerevan, let’s cut to the chase. Here is the list of all the best things to do in Yerevan

Climb the Cascade for the best view of Yerevan

This is the absolute number one activity in the capital of Armenia and you should start your Yerevan sightseeing with it!

The Cascade is a masterpiece of Soviet architecture and one of the most impressive things you will see in Yerevan. Designed by Sargis Gurzadyan, Jim Torosyan, and Aslan Mkhitaryan and built between 1971 and 2000s this giant, spectacular stairway is rich in the details referring to the Armenian culture and carefully planned with lots of green spaces surrounded by the concrete.

But the main reason to come here is to see the best view of Yerevan and, if you are lucky, Mount Ararat. Try to be here around the sunset time for the best light and the biggest chances to see the Holy Mountain.

If you are too lazy to climb up the stairs, and there are many of them, you can find the escalator inside the Cascade, the entrance is on the left side and it’s free of charge.

Admire the modern art at the Cascade

Once at the Cascade, after focusing first on the view of Yerevan take a look around you. There are numerous pieces of modern art scattered around on the Cascade itself and in the small park leading to the giant stairway.

They all belong to Cafesjian Center for the Arts, the modern art museum located inside the Cascades.

While you need a ticket to visit the exhibition inside, admiring the art outside and when riding the escalator is free of charge.

Among all the pieces of art here you will find your favorite ones for sure – mine is the overweight woman and the giant teapot.

Say hello to Mother Armenia

As you might have seen in other post-Soviet cities (especially in Kyiv, Ukraine and Tbilisi, Georgia ) the idea of the massive statue of “mother” personifying the country is rather popular.

You can find a similar statue in Yerevan too.

Mother Armenia is located in the Victory Park above the Cascade and even if she has a very seriously-looking face and she holds a sword, she is there to take care of her country and the nation.

Around the monument, you can see a few military objects, such as tanks or planes – they are part of the military museum.

Mother Armenia isn’t the only reason why you should visit Victory Park. On the contrary to the serious statue, you can find here the amusement park with the ferries wheel (a mandatory piece in all the post-Soviet cities) and lots of other rusty attractions.

If you like exploring abandoned places , the cafe “Aragil” is perfect for that.

From in front of Mother Armenia, you can also admire some spectacular views of Yerevan and Mount Ararat.

Victory Park is located on the steep hill. You can take the escalator to the upper part of the Cascade and then keep walking further up or you can take Yandex Taxi to the park and after visiting it continue your way down to the center through the Cascade.

Visit Matenadaran to see impressive manuscripts

As you might know, Armenia has its own unique alphabet, created at the very beginning of the 5th century by Mesrop Mashtots. It has 39 letters and is very beautiful, although it looks nothing like the Latin alphabet.

Not far from the Cascades you can find Matenadaran – the museum of Armenian manuscripts, the largest one of that kind in the world. This is one of the most precious treasures of the Armenian culture.

Inside you can find around 13 thousand manuscripts, the oldest one from the 5th century. The majority of them are in the Armenian language but there are some in Latin, Arab, Hebrew, Persian, Greek, etc.

See the Opera house and get a ticket to the show

The National Opera Theater in Yerevan is a massive building, dominating the northern part of the center. It was opened in 1933 and inside you can find two halls, each of them with over a thousand seats.

If you would like to see the play here you can get the affordable tickets for the show and enjoy a bit of the culture during your time in Yerevan. You can purchase the tickets at the ticket office on the left side of the Opera House, at Sayat-Nova Avenue.

Opera and its surroundings are also a very popular place among locals, with numerous cafes, green areas and a small pond called Swan Lake. You will spend some time here for sure, just enjoying the city vibe.

Visit the Cathedral

Armenia was the first country in the world that adopted Christianity as the state religion, in the year 301. That’s one of the reasons why this country is so interesting and unique .

You won’t find all that many churches in Yerevan but there is one very impressive sanctuary – Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. It’s fairly new, finished in 2001, and currently, this is the largest cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the world.

You should visit it even if you are not a very religious person. It looks spectacular, with its sharp geometric lines, not like your usual cathedral.

The interior is a bit raw, overwhelming and a bit modern, so different from the churches we are used to seeing. From the architectural point of view, this is a real masterpiece.

Find other churches

When sightseeing in the center of Yerevan you might notice there are not too many churches around, which might be surprising considering this is the oldest Christian nation in the world. Well, they are there, just a bit hidden.

You will find them in some unusual places like the yard behind the blocks of flats, blended in between modern architecture or standing casually at the corner or busy streets.

The modern look of Yerevan was designed at the beginning of the 20th century and well, back then the church wasn’t in a good relationship with the state. The churches, even if important for the Armenian culture and identity, weren’t built on a mass scale (like in Poland, for example).

Some of the churches you might want to see include Katoghike Church (on the corner of Abovyan and Sayat-Nova streets), Zoravor Surp Astvatsatsin Church (in the yard on Parpetsi street, close to Tumanyan street) and Saint Sarkis Cathedral (on the edge of the Hrazdan Gorge at Israyelyan Street).

Walk Northern Avenue

Each city has a place where you go to see others and to be seen. For Yerevan, it’s Northern Avenue – a pedestrian street opened in 2007 that stretches from the Republic Square to the Opera.

During the day it’s a bit soulless with modern buildings that are often empty and with fancy shops but in the evening it’s bustling with people, buzzing until late night hours.

You can see here the street performers, sit down in one of the cafes and just observe the world going by and people walking up and down the street like on the catwalk.

Find cool Soviet architecture

For years Yerevan and Armenia were part of the Soviet Union and even if most of the architecture in the center was kept from before that time, you can still find in Yerevan some good examples of brutalism and other examples of the Soviet architecture.

The biggest masterpiece is, of course, the Cascade with its giant stairway but other places you can’t miss are Karen Demirchyan Complex, the Institute of Communication, the House of Chess or Tsitsernakaberd – the Armenian Genocide Memorial.

In front of the Republic Square metro station, you can see a beautiful concrete fountain, probably my favorite piece of brutalist architecture in Yerevan.

Click here to see my complete guide to the Soviet Architecture in Yerevan (the link will open in the new window).

Visit some interesting museums

Yerevan isn’t very big on museums but there are some interesting ones (and some that are a must, that’s why they got a separate mention in this article).

History Museum of Armenia, located in the very heart of the city, at the Republic Square, has a collection of around 400.000 objects in five departments, all of them hocusing on the long and troublesome history of Armenia. This is a very interesting place if you would like to learn more about the country and not only about its recent history.

Fans of modern art should also visit the Museum of Modern Art, located on Mashtots Avenue 7, focusing mostly on Armenian artists. It’s not spectacular (Cafesjian Center for the Arts at the Cascade is better, in my opinion) but still worth your time.

If you plan to visit museums you should get yourself a Yerevan Card. With the card, most of the museums are free of charge and you can save quite a bit of money. Click here to get yourself the Yerevan Card.

For more info on the best museums in Yerevan click here.

See why Yerevan is called “the pink city” at the Republic Square

Yerevan is often called “the pink city” thanks to the tuff – the volcanic stone with the pink shade that was used to build the city. Most of the Armenian capital was has the pinkish look but you can especially see it at the Republic Square – the main square of the city.

All the buildings surrounding the square: banks, post office, Marriott hotel or the Government of the Republic of Armenia have a very distinctive pink shade and are the quintessence of Yerevan architecture.

Speaking of the Republic Square – in the warmer months (from April on) in the evening you can see here the singing and dancing fountain. It is a bit kitschy, with some of the hits from the 1990s, but both locals and tourists enjoy it and each day there are crowds watching the show.

Even if you don’t like this kind of entertainment you will enjoy it too! It’s one of the ultimate Yerevan experiences.

Ride the metro

Yerevan metro might not be as spectacular as metro stations in other post-Soviet cities (like in Moscow , Kharkiv or Tashkent ) but it still has this old times charm and can give you the impression of why the Soviet metro systems were and still are so popular.

Even if it was opened in 1981, the metro system in Yerevan is small, it consists only of one line with 10 stations but you need only a few of them to get around the city: Sasuntsi David (for the train station), Zoravar Andranik (for the Cathedral), Republic Square, Yeritasardakan (for the Cascade, the station building itself is a brutalist gem) and Marshal Baghramyan (for Lovers’ Park).

Metro in Yerevan is cheap (you only need a token for 100 AMD for the ride), clean, safe and efficient. In the hot summer days, this is a perfect getaway to escape the heat.

If you need to connect to free wifi – Yerevan metro is your answer!

Shop for souvenirs at the Vernissage

If you are looking for some Armenian souvenirs to take home with you there is no better place than the Vernissage. This open-air market, located near Republic Square, focuses on Armenian souvenirs only and the choice is so big everyone can find something interesting here. From rugs and paintings to pomegranate earrings or keychains – literally everything is here.

The Vernissage is open every day, from 7:00 in the morning till 18:00 (although the opening hours can be shorter when the weather is bad or it’s the holiday season).

Another, smaller open-air market with paintings only is located near the Opera, in Martiros Saryan Park.

To find out more about shopping in Yerevan click here to read the guide written by my friend Emily.

Go to GUM for fresh fruits, vegetables, spices and more

Armenia is known for its fresh produce and you can get the best fruits, vegetables, spices, cheese, pickles and more at the GUM market.

As soon as you enter the building you will be welcomed with the incredible smell of all the goodies you can purchase here. From there it gets only better!

In this colorful foodie paradise, you are invited to try all the amazing food and it’s really hard to say no as everything looks and is so delicious. Just don’t go too crazy with trying all the samples, otherwise, you will never leave the place. Focus on buying the goodies from friendly locals instead.

Every time I visit the GUM market I leave with many more things that I planned to buy as it’s so hard to resist all the amazing goodies you can find here.

GUM market is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm. To get here take the metro to Zoravar Andranik and walk a few minutes south. Republic Square is around 20 minutes walking away.

Visit the only active mosque in Armenia

Hidden behind the unobtrusive gate on Mashtots Avenue, the Blue Mosque in Yerevan is one of the prettiest buildings in the city. It was built in the 18th century when Yerevan was still under the Persian rule, and these days it is the oldest structure you can find in the center of the city.

Today this is the only working mosque in Yerevan and Armenia but even if you are not a Muslim you are welcome to visit the place.

The mosque and especially its garden are such a pleasant place, a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. You enter the gate and you are transformed into another world. You can sit down on the bench under the tree, admiring the beautiful architecture of the Mosque in front of you and just relax.

Since you are at the Blue Mosque you can also visit Pak Shuka – the remnants of the stunningly beautiful covered market that is located across the street. It used to be a real gem but after the renovation, a lot of its charm was gone and now it is a regular shop but you can still see some interesting architectural features in the building.

Learn about brandy at one of the brandy factories

Armenia is home to brandy. The legend says the wine was distilled into brandy in this area already in the 12th century, however, the official production started in 1887.

It is said that the Armenian brandy is among the best ones in the world, it was cherished by some of the most important people in the world including Stalin or Churchill who received several cases of the Armenian brandy per year.

Today you can find two major brandy companies in Yerevan, Noy and Ararat, and they both offer tours where you can learn more about the famous drink and even taste it. You will visit the museum telling all about brandy and then walk the cellar with impressive barrels.

Such a tour is a must for everyone who is interested in the Armenian culture and heritage. You can go for a free tour with the Yerevan Card.

See the remnants of Old Yerevan

Even if Yerevan is a really old city you won’t find many remnants of the past there. Most of the city was designed at the beginning of the 20th century.

However, there is one part of the center where you can see old Yerevan’s heritage and that’s Kond. The neighborhood dates back to the 17th century and back then it was one of the three original quarters in Yerevan.

Still today you can see the remnants of the multicultural past, with some of the houses having the distinctive features of the Persian/Muslim/Ottoman culture. This is part of the city like any other, of the great historical value and importance.

The houses were built with clay and stones, the area is covered in narrow and winding lanes and looks nothing like the elegant center. Unfortunately, much of Kond needs renovation really badly but you still should visit it to see another face of Yerevan.

Walk Kond tunnel to Hrazdan gorge

One of the quirkiest Yerevan attractions is Kond tunnel, connecting the center (near Mashtots Avenue) with Hrazdan Gorge. It was designed by Alexander Tamanyan, completed in 1936 and is still in use.

The tunnel is almost 500 meters long but you don’t need to use the flashlight when walking through it as the place is well lit.

Those who enjoy street art will find a few decent pieces here too.

From away it might look like the tunnel is closed but in fact, it is not, the parking lot blocks the view of the entrance.

Visit Sergei Parajanov Museum

Sergei Parajanov was a famous Soviet Armenian director, well known around the world. The museum was established in 1988 when he was still alive, and Parajanov chose the location himself, in the traditional Caucasian house.

Even if you are not familiar with his works you still should visit the place. It’s like a pure madness of the creative mind, with lots of installations, collages, assemblages, drawings, dolls, and hat as well as more traditional exhibits like festival prizes or unpublished screenplays.

This is one of the most popular museums in Yerevan and it attracts visitors for a reason – this is a beautiful tribute to the beautiful mind.

You can visit the museum for free with the Yerevan Card.

Learn about the Armenian Genocide at Tsitsernakaberd

The present identity of Armenians was very much shaped by the Armenian Genocide, in 1915, when over a million people lost their lives. I believe every visitor to the country should go to the Armenian Genocide Memorial at Tsitsernakaberd and learn more about this tragic part of Armenian history.

The memorial complex was completed in 1967, after massive protests that shook up Yerevan in 1965, 50 years after the Armenian Genocide. On the hill overlooking the city, you can find a very good museum as well as the monument dedicated to all the victims.

In the Armenian Genocide Museum, you can learn all about the events leading to the Genocide, the Genocide itself and the world’s reactions, including famous Hitler’s words “Who now remembers the Armenians”. It is a very touching place, not an easy one to visit but I think it’s obligatory to understand the history of Armenia and the people.

The monument to the victims is a fine example of brutalist architecture and with its raw concrete, it makes even a bigger impression. It consists of 44 meters stele, the symbol of the national rebirth, and twelve slabs – symbol of twelve lost provinces.

Inside the circular monument, you will find the eternal flame dedicated to all the people who lost lives during the Armenian Genocide.

Every year on April 24th there are big celebrations commemorating the victims of the Armenian Genocide. I took part in them three times, including the centennial , and it was a truly unforgettable and remarkable experience to join thousands of Armenians in the march up to Tsitsernakaberd to pay the respect to all those who lost lives in 1915.

If you happen to be in Yerevan on that day make sure to visit the memorial complex too.

The Armenian Genocide Memorial is located a bit away from the center. The best way to get here is by Yandex Taxi, you should pay around 500 AMD for the ride.

Visit Erebuni Fortress

The reason why Yerevan is considered to be older than Rome is Erebuni Fortress – the remnants of the Urartian fortified city founded in 782 B.C. It was developing for two centuries until it was abandoned prior to the Persian invasion.

The ruins were discovered only in the 19th century but since they are located in the administrative area of Yerevan, Erebuni is considered the birthplace of the Armenian capital.

Erebuni Fortress is located some 7 kilometers away from the center, it’s best to use Yandex Taxi to get there.

Relax in the Lovers’ Park

Yerevan has a few nice green spaces, like the Victory Park or parks near the Republic Square, but the most pleasant one is small Lovers’ Park, located right next to the Marshal Baghramyan metro station.

Even if the park in this location has been part of the city for years, the current look was given to it in 2008 after the renovation works. As the name says, this is the favorite hang out place for the couples but everyone else is more than welcome to.

On the premises, you can find lots of well-maintained lanes and benches, numerous sculptures, an open-air cafe or the small amphitheater. This is yet another perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One interesting thing I noticed in the Lovers’ Park during my last visit was the ban on taking pictures that was displayed on the info board – I’ve been to the park many times, took lots of pictures and had no issues.

Admire beautiful old houses

Even if in the central Yerevan you can find mostly the impressive modern(-ish) architecture there are also a few beautiful old houses, a perfect example of how the city used to look like a hundred or so years ago.

The prettiest ones are on Abovyan street, between Republic Square and Tumanyan street but look carefully when you wander around Yerevan to find even more of them!

See the iconic Moscow Cinema

Of all the buildings from the pre-war period, my favorite one is Moscow Cinema, located at the Charles Aznavour Square on Abovyan street.

It was built in the middle of the 1930s on the site where Saint Paul and Peter Church used to stand (it was demolished by the Soviet rule) and the grand opening took place on the 12th December 1936. Over the years the building was rebuilt and renovated a few times but it is still impressing, even today.

On Charles Aznavour Square in front of the cinema, you can find numerous quirky sculptures, such as a giant spider or the fountain with the zodiac signs.

It is possible to spend a night in the Moscow Cinema building – Moscow Boutique Hotel is located here – click here for details .

Enjoy the amazing cafe scene

One of my favorite things about Yerevan is its incredible cafe culture. The variety of cafes is really amazing, you can find them all over the city, some of them are random, others might be fancy and overpriced but they all have one thing in common – they serve really good coffee!

My favorite cafes in Yerevan include The Green Bean, Achajour, Twelve Tables, Epicure or The Coffee 23.5 but you can just randomly stumble a real gem too. Click here for more inspiration for cafes in Yerevan.

Coffee is such an important thing in the local life that you can buy it just about everywhere (and I’m not talking about the drink, but the coffee beans).

If you would like to purchase freshly ground coffee or just coffee beans you can find those in the small shops or in the underground passages.

Try Armenian wine

Did you know that Armenia is the oldest country in the world producing wine? The first wine cellar in the world was found near Areni, south of Yerevan, over 6 thousand years ago!

What’s special about Armenian wine is the fact that it is not made only from the grapes but also other fruits, such as pomegranate, apricot or blackberries. Make sure to try them all as they have such a unique taste, even if a bit too sweet.

You can find all the best wine shops and wine restaurants on Saryan street.

Eat as much food as you can

Armenian food is very delicious, using only local fresh ingredients. You can find it in numerous places around Yerevan and many of the restaurants are very affordable in the European standards.

My favorite one is Anteb at Yeznik Koghabatsi Street, serving modern Western Armenian cuisine. I also like Caucasus Tavern at 82 Hanrapetutyan street – the service is the worst but the menu is really long (a bit too long as it’s hard to decide), the prices very fine and the food super delicious.

The hidden gem for a quick bit is Zatar Pizza at Mher Mkrtchyan street (near Republic Square), it might look very random but everything with zaatar is to die for!

Find cool street art

Yerevan street art scene is a bit unusual. You will find here a few bigger murals but still not so many of them.

But this doesn’t mean there is no street art around. Quite the contrary actually.

Almost every single gate in the center of Yerevan is beautifully painted in the various themes and altogether they create a very nice addition to the city. The paintings were the project of the local art university a few years ago but now are an inseparable part of Yerevan.

I’m not giving you addresses where to find them as they are literally all over the place.

Drink craft beer

Yerevan is only getting on the craft beer map of the world but there are a few places you need to check: Dors Craft Beer & Kitchen (by the way, try their grilled vegetables!) and Dargett Brewpub are the musts! Don’t miss the 2nd Floor too – this is one of the best bars in Yerevan, always busy but so cool!

Enjoy the city’s vibe

While I enjoy doing all the things mentioned above my absolute favorite thing to do in Yerevan is to just wander around and enjoy the city’s vibe. It’s hard to describe it properly but it makes me fall in love with the city every single time.

Yerevan is a cosmopolitan but with a Soviet past, bustling but laid-back, big but not overwhelming and so full of art and green spaces on every step. Not to mention the view of Mount Ararat that takes my breath away every single time.

Yerevan is one of those cities I could stay in for a long time and wake up with a smile on my face only because I’m there.

I can imagine this is not a place for everyone, especially that it lacks major tourist attractions and pretty old town, but if you manage to look beyond just the surface you will enjoy Yerevan half as much as I do (and that’s already a lot).

Go for some amazing day trips around

Last but not least – go for some day trips from Yerevan. The city, conveniently located more or less in the middle of the country, can be a perfect base to explore some of the great places to visit in Armenia .

There is a range of day trips to choose from and no matter where you go, you will see some spectacular places: amazing Lake Sevan, numerous old monasteries (my favorites include Noravank, Sanahin, and Haghpat), quirk monument to Armenian Alphabet, the longest cable car in the world and more. Armenia really had a lot to offer!

Unfortunately, public transport is limited or nonexistent to some of the biggest attractions of Armenia as they are often located in remote areas. You might try driving if you are adventurous but the roads in Armenia are in a rather poor condition.

Fortunately, there are plenty of organized day tours from Yerevan for a very affordable price. That’s how I visited all the places too, I only used public transport (train and marshrutka) to Gyumri and Dilijan.

Here is the list of some of the recommended day trips from Yerevan:

• Echmiadzin, Zvartnots, Lake Sevan, and Dilijan Tour
• Khor Virap, Garni, & Gehgard Monastery Tour
• Khor Virap, Areni Winery and Noravank Monastery
• Garni Temple and Geghard Tour

Further reading

I published many articles about Armenia that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 18 Amazing Places to Visit in Armenia
• 27 Armenia Travel Tips – all you need to know about visiting Armenia
• Armenia Itinerary – what to see in Armenia in 3-14 days
• Yerevan travel tips – all you need to know about visiting Yerevan, Armenia
• Guide to the Cascade in Yerevan – City’s Biggest Attraction
• Guide to Yerevan Soviet architecture
• How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan (or Yerevan to Tbilisi) – a complete guide

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Caucasus and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Armenia

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Armenia here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Armenia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

LIKED IT? PIN THIS POST FOR LATER!

If you enjoyed that post why don't you share it with your friends? That would mean so much to me! Also be sure to join 30.000+ fellow travelers and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , or Instagram for travel updates and even more pictures! If you don't want to miss new posts sign up to my newsletter or follow on Bloglovin !

22 Comments

Michael Oconnor

Place is a shit whole, old and dirty Rude people, but it’s a good article I don’t think any American will go to Armenia be honest

I disagree but everyone has a right to their own opinion. I know many Americans who went to Armenia and loved it. I’m sorry you had a bad experience there.

Probably an Azeri. They love to hate on Armenia under foreign names. Beautiful shots!

Anna Garibian

Thank you Kami. This was a very interesting guide for me. A look to the city where I grew up and left before the Soviet Union collapsed. Amazing photos. History lesson. As a linguist in Armenian language just want to add….the many churches in Yerevan were destroyed by the Bolsheviks the communists. As we know they are atheists. The main architect of the city was Alexander Tamanyan who build the new Yerevan in a shape of sun after it became Soviet. The Opera house in the center. In the beginning of the 20th century. Later on where added many Soviet style building surrounding the center….unfortunately. You may see the shape of sun in a famous photo of Yerevan taken from the sky when you check Yerevan photos with the view of biblical mount Ararat . thanks again.

Thank you for your comment, Anna, and for adding extra valuable info, I really appreciate that! All the best!

If it’s an ugly place Why do you like the article or even read it. Many famous Americans visited and even baptized their children in the oldest Christian cathedral on earth built in 4th century in Echmiadzin. Like Kim Kardashian. Or rock star Serj Tankian. And many more. Tankian and his band Soad performed in the Republic Square in 2015. It seems you didn’t have a good guide. It’s a place of extremes nowadays. Some parts remind of Vienna some of Bangladesh. After All is a crossroad of west and east. The troubled history in a difficult neighborhood also shaped the negative moments. Read the history of Armenia . Google it. It will help to understand the place you visited.

Thank you soo much,Armenia is a really oldest country in world ,the people are very friendly and nice and am really proud to see a lot of good words about my country!!!

Thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed the article!

Thank you very much for writing a beautiful text from Yerevan Yerevan and other cities and villages of Armenia have people with culture, sweet, warm-hearted, hospitable, Yerevan, the paradise of Eurasia and the Caucasus … Abbas, Germany

I’m glad you liked the article. all the best!

I’m a Brit who has been in Armenia now for a few months and I’m really enjoying the place. Head up to Dilijan for some beautiful nature!

We just spent a month in Yerevan. Had to go there for business, but the city and the country grew on me. We were there in January, a lot of outdoor places, playgrounds are shut. Kids are not playing outside. Even Lovers Park was not impressive. However, we found out favorite spots in the city, delicious and cheap food to eat, and took amazing day trips. I would go back any time! In the spring or fall.

Yeah, January is a bit challenging for outdoor activities but still, there’s plenty to enjoy in the city. I hope next time you visit Yerevan will be with the better weather, the place changes so much then!

Thanks for an interesting insight. I am in Yerevan at the moment and definitely got inspired. You said that you do not want to direct people to specific graffiti but nevertheless I am curious, where exactly is this photo taken? https://www.mywanderlust.pl/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/things-to-do-in-yerevan-armenia-52.jpg

I’m sure you will enjoy Yerevan, it’s such a vibrant city. This exact mural was located in the passage just off Pushkin street, at Koghbatsi st., more or less here https://goo.gl/maps/izaLBnSuVHoNk2SV8 But as it always is with street art, there are no guarantees it is still there…

Thank you for the graffiti tip. As I was actually staying on the corner of Abovyan and Pushkin, it was just a short detour to check the location. The picture was actually there if you looked carefully, but it was fully covered with posters advertising different events, so I could only see the edges of the graffiti and understood it was there only because I knew it was supposed to be there. But alas, as you said, graffiti is never forever.

That’s too bad it’s covered now :( but that’s the beauty of street art… at least you could see a bit of it :)

Very informative and well written blog. I’m currently visiting Yerevan from the US and loved the suggestions and all the history and culture.

thank you for your kind words. Hope you are having a great time in Yerevan!

Alan Wilson

I found your guide to Yeveran very helpful indeed. Armenia is my 53rd Country I’m visiting. I am really enjoying my stay in the Capital. It’s a nice place to visit and guide has given me much help and guidance to enjoy the place so much more. Thank you.

Thank you so much for your kind words, I really appreciate it. I’m glad you enjoyed Yerevan!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Let’s become friends!

Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates!

Kami and the rest of the world

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

Top 10 Things to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

By Louise Peterson · Last updated on May 28, 2024

What do eight friends do on a midnight train from Georgia? Well, they wait for the sun to rise over Ararat and enjoy a whirlwind weekend in Armenia! And this is exactly what we did! The Armenian capital is a highly underrated destination with some truly unexpected charm that had us spellbound.

Yerevan, the capital city, is a brilliant mix of old and new schools, with modern buildings that give nods to its soviet past. Considering that Armenia is less than half the size of Ireland, it’s easy to understand that most of the sights outside of the capital are easy day trips. We managed to squeeze in five major stops on a one-day tour and had time to spare for some well-deserved brandies!

Climb The Steps of The Cascade

The Cascade in Yerevan is one of the most flashy attractions in the city and it was completed in the early 80s. You will scale more than 500 steps to the top as you ascend the 5 levels. But if you are smart (and/or lazy), take the elevator on the left side of the cascade and pop out at the top. Then walk down on the inside of the building to see a fantastic collection of historic and contemporary art.

When you reach the top, the reward is beyond words—a breathtaking panorama of Yerevan, crowned by the majestic silhouette of Mount Ararat. This is by far the best view you will get during your visit.

See the Smallest and Biggest Books at the Matenadaran Museum

In the hallowed halls of the Matenadaran Museum, you can explore hundreds of thousands of ancient manuscripts that tell the story of Armenian history, heritage and language. These scrips also offer valuable insight into gloabal history and the development of early Christianity.

Probably the most famous exhibit at the museum is the display with the largest and the smallest Armenian books. This might not sound like much but when you consider the smallest dates back to the 14th century and only weighs 19g, you might think again. The largest, the Msho Charentir, is from the 13th century and weighs almost 28kg!

Stroll Around Republic Square and Make a Pulpulak Pitstop

Republic Square is the heartbeat of the city and it is worth just taking a leisurely stroll to let and let its grandeur wash over you. The blue water of the fountain outside the National Museum is akin to that of the Trevvi fountain and from March onward you can watch them dance to music at night.

You need to seek out the Pulpulak fountain—an authentic Armenian experience that’s both refreshing and revitalizing. It consists of seven smaller drinking fountains and sipping from one is a right of passage in Yerevan.

See The World’s Oldest Shoe

This is one shoe that probably won’t attract Carrie Bradshaw but at the history History Museum of Armenia, you can see the world’s oldest shoe. It’s a humble artifact that speaks volumes about Armenia’s ancient craftsmanship and ingenuity. The Areni-1 shoe is almost 3,500 years old so it seems like we are being modest when we say “Leather lasts a lifetime!”

Find Peace at Katoghike

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Yerevan, find solace in the serene embrace of Katoghike, a hidden gem among the city’s architectural treasures. With its graceful lines and tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to pause, reflect, and recharge your spirit.

We walked about 15 minutes from Republic Square to light a candle inside its humble interior. But something must be said for entering a building that has been standing through more than 800 years of wars and sieges.

Toast Armenia at A Brandy Tasting

Undoubtedly one of the highlights of my trip was the brandy tasting at Ararat Destillery. Here we could raise a glass to Armenian hospitality with a brandy tasting experience that’s as warm and welcoming as the people themselves. From the smooth amber hues to the rich, complex flavors, each sip tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and the art of savoring life’s simple pleasures.

Get The Best Arrarat Views from Khor Virap

Our first trip out of the city was to see the magnificent setting of Khor Virap. It is just under an hour from the city and against the backdrop of Mount Ararat, it’s a place where legend and history intertwine.

We miscalculated our visit and went there on easter weekend, leaving this otherwise quiet location overflowing with pilgrims. This being said, it was quite an experience to see this ancient church still being used for its intended purpose, overlooking the spot where Noah and his ark met dry land.

Make The Pilgrimage to Geghard

The depths of Geghard monastery is quite spectacular, leaving you to discover a world carved from the very rock it is surrounded by. This monastery dates as far back as the 4th century but the stone-carved building is from the 13th century.

As you wind your way out of the mountains, remember to stop at one of the roadside bakeries where you can buy a Gata pastry/bread/cake. Whatever you want to call this Armenian treat, it is sweet and decadent and probably sinful.

See What Pagans Were Up to At Garni Temple

Garni Temple was one of the most surprising stops for me. In a corner of the world dominated by Christianity and cathedrals, this pagan temple was a fascinating find. This temple is almost in perfect condition and is surrounded by rugged cliffs, making it even more impressive.

Staying true to my road-tripping roots, we packed a picnic and had lunch under the shade of a peach tree. I cannot confirm nor deny whether this was permissible but it was memorable nonetheless.

Pay Your Respects at The Armenian Genocide Museum

The Armenian Genocide is a controversial location as some people do not recognize this event as a genocide. But for the Armenian people, the scars are still fresh as they often still face persecution.

This makes this an even more poignant and somber visit, one that is raw and uncomfortable but important.

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

10 Fun Things to Do on Ometepe Island

10 Best All Inclusive Resorts in Fiji

24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

10 Best Seychelles Luxury Resorts

10 Best Places to Visit in Uruguay

21 Best Places to Visit in South America

25 Best Cities to Visit in Asia

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Venezuela

A Guide to Climbing Santa Ana Volcano in El Salvador

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• 10 Amazing Things To See...

10 Amazing Things To Do In Yerevan, Armenia

As the capital of historic and culturally rich Armenia, Yerevan has a lot to offer to its visitors. The city is known for its squares, parks, historic monuments, and delicious dolma, just to name a few of its attractions. So, if you are looking for the best things to do in Yerevan, you are in the right spot.

Take a free walking tour of the city.

Free walking tours are one of the best ways to get to know the city. Locals work voluntarily to show their hometown to its visitors by taking them to the iconic places. This particular tour takes around three hours and promises to tell you stories that you won’t find in guidebooks. Guides take you to over 25 sites including the historic center, backstreets, and modern architectural spots. Note that the tour is upon request, so you need to get in touch with them and book in advance. Also remember that the concept of a free walking tour is to tip the guide at the end with whatever amount you thought the tour was worth.

Republic Square

Art Gallery, Museum, Building

Republic Square lies in the center of the city, offering a great glimpse into local everyday life. It took almost 50 years to complete the building of the square; however, most of it was constructed in the 1950s. Spend the morning or afternoon here, and visit the History Museum and the National Gallery .

Cascade Stairway and Museum

Library, Museum

The Armenian Genocide Museum

Memorial, Museum

Vernissage Flea Market

When visiting a new city, chances are that you’ll want to bring some kind of a souvenir back home. The best place to shop for them is the Vernissage flea market, which basically has anything you could ever imagine. Most of the items here are handmade and include jewelry, woven rugs, purses, clothes, toys, and vintage items, just to name a few.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Ararat Brandy Factory

Wander through the oldest quarter

Dating back to the 17th century, Kond is considered to be the oldest quarter of Yerevan. Nested on the hill, the neighborhood overlooks the center and is home to various Persian, Muslim, and Ottoman houses sitting along narrow alleyways that are 120cm wide. Spend a lovely afternoon here wandering through these streets, and discover hidden gems and gorgeous architecture.

Matenadaran

Matenadaran is a place for anyone who’s curious about history, literature, art, and philosophy. In front of the museum, you’ll see a statue of Mesrop Mashtots, the person who invented the Armenian script. Inside, you’ll find ancient texts from around the world, but note that you might want to take a guided tour if you don’t know much about ancient and medieval history.

Relax or have a picnic at its parks

Yerevan boasts various parks within its territory. The most popular one among locals is Lovers Park, which is also the oldest one in the city. It features a fabulous Japanese landscape and is a great place for a romantic picnic or a relaxing late afternoon. Walk around and enjoy the views of its waterfalls and ponds.

Indulge in national dishes

Armenian cuisine is quite diverse, with dishes that are prepared with meat, fish, and vegetables. The preparation of those dishes in the local kitchen often needs puréeing, stuffing, and frothing. The highlights of the cuisine are lamb, lavash (tortilla-like bread), and eggplant.

Once in Armenia, must-try dishes are dolma – a minced meat wrapped in grape leaves, harissa – a wheat and meat porridge, and khash – beef or lamb feet slow-cooked overnight. The latter is typically eaten in winter at breakfast over crumbled dried lavash.

The article was originally written by Pauline Pechakjian.

The Best Day Trips From Yerevan

The Best Places for Armenian Dessert in Yerevan

The Best Hotels in Yerevan, Armenia

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 411141
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Things to Do in Yerevan | Armenia Travel Guide

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: September 24, 2020  - Last updated: December 8, 2021

Categories Armenia , Caucasus , Destinations

Known as the Pink City, Yerevan is a fascinating place to explore impressive architecture and beautiful parks. It is the capital city of Armenia and is rich in cultural attractions.

Since the early 2000s, many reconstruction projects have taken place to make the city more appealing. 

This compact city is very walkable, making it easy to see a variety of attractions in a single trip. Here you’ll find many churches, museums, and examples of Soviet-era architecture. In between these older structures, there are lots of modern cafés and shops to visit. 

You will never be short of things to do in the city of Yerevan. This guide will provide you with information on the best local landmarks to visit, some practical tips on getting around, and suggestions for where to stay in Yerevan. 

What to Do in Yerevan, Armenia

There are many sightseeing opportunities and enjoyable activities to try in this city. You can take a train from Tbilisi , the capital city of Armenia’s neighboring country of Georgia , to start discovering Yerevan’s landmarks and history. 

Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Yerevan to include in your trip.

Walk Around Republic Square

This is the main square of Yerevan and a great place to meet friends or do some people-watching. The large square contains the Singing Fountains and is surrounded by impressive buildings.

When standing in the middle of Republic Square, you can see why Yerevan is called the Pink City. Most of the buildings have a pinkish glow because of the stones used to build them. 

The government buildings are grand examples of Soviet architecture, built in a Neoclassical style. The Armenian Marriott Hotel was also constructed in the 1950s and is quite stunning with its high arches. 

You can see the National Gallery and History Museum of Armenia in this square too. If you have time to look around inside, you won’t be disappointed. These spectacular structures contain unique archeological objects and the largest collection of Armenian art in the world. 

Every evening during the summer, the square’s Singing Fountains light up and ‘dance’ to music. You can grab a coffee or ice cream from one of the many shops in the area and then return to the square for this water show. 

Climb the Cascades

The Cascades is a massive white limestone stairway built up a hillside to the upper part of the city. It was designed to be an Art Deco version of the Hanging Gardens of ancient Babylon . 

At the foot of this magnificent structure is the Sculpture Garden. In this small green zone, you can see a collection of unique sculptures from Botero and other famous artists. 

You can climb up the stairs of the Cascades for a wonderful view of the whole city. On clear days, you can also see Mount Ararat in the distance. 

The structure is massive, and it can take a while to climb all the stairs. Still, there are beautiful mini-gardens with fountains and sculptures at each level to keep you going.

If you don’t feel like climbing the stairs, there are escalators inside the Cascades that take you to the top. In any case, it’s stunning to see the Cafesjian Museum of Modern Art on the inside of this structure. It houses many galleries and exhibits of different artworks. 

Go to Freedom Square

This is the other main square of Yerevan and is also called Liberty Square or Opera Square. It is part of the Yerevan Opera Theater complex, which includes the large opera building, the opera park, and the Swan lake. 

During the day, the square is filled with open-air cafés and children riding around on bikes. At night, the large opera house is brightly lit and buzzing with people. Together, the two different halls inside the theater can hold up to 2,600 people.

When the opera building was established in the 1930s, the first ballet performance on its stage was Swan Lake . And so, the lake in the complex was named after this famous ballet. 

The unique Armenian opera Anoush has been performed at the opera house every year since its opening. You can buy tickets and see this amazing performance one evening while you’re in Yerevan. 

Visit a Church

Armenia was the first country in the world to institute Christianity as its official religion. So it’s no surprise to find many beautiful churches across Yerevan. 

Katoghike Church is the oldest church still standing in Yerevan. It dates back to the 1200s and has a typical Armenian architectural style. Today, this small building is used as a prayer house. 

The largest cathedral in Armenia is the St Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Yerevan. This is not an old building like most of the other churches. The cathedral was built to celebrate Armenia’s 1700th anniversary as a Christian nation and was only completed in 2001. 

This cathedral includes a tall bell tower and a large domed ceiling. The exterior is made from orange-tinted limestone. This enormous structure can be seen from many parts of the city and is one of the not-to-be-missed Yerevan attractions. 

All the churches in Yerevan are open from early morning until late in the evening. You can enter for free and take a look around the intriguing architecture.

See the Blue Mosque

The 18th-century Shia mosque is currently the only active mosque in the country. This makes it one of the culturally significant places to visit in Armenia.

From the 1920s until the 1990s, the Blue Mosque served only as a history museum. After Armenia’s independence from the Soviet Union, the mosque was renovated and used as a religious institution again. 

The Iranian government supported the mosque’s renovation and donated money to the cause. Today, the Blue Mosque serves many Iranians who live in Yerevan. 

The large dome and turquoise, indigo, and yellow mosaic exterior are beautiful to see. You can also go inside the mosque when prayers are not in progress. 

Walk Through the Armenian Genocide Memorial

While you’re enjoying all the beauty Yerevan has to offer, it is also important to remember the somber history of this country. During your visit to Armenia, take time to pay your respects at the Genocide Memorial complex.

This memorial was built in 1967 on Tsitsernakaberd hill. It commemorates the victims of the Armenian genocide that took place from 1915 to 1922. 

The Memorial complex includes the Tsitsernakaberd monument and the Genocide Museum. The striking monument is made from a circle of 12 leaning slabs, each representing one of Armenia’s lost provinces. In the center of these slabs is an eternal flame to remember the genocide victims. 

On April 24, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, thousands of Armenians travel to the memorial to commemorate those who died. Many important political and religious figures from around the world have also visited the memorial site over the years. 

The Genocide Museum offers free entry to locals and tourists. It uses photos, documents, and films to guide visitors through the tragic historical event. Although it is a saddening experience, this tour will also give you a new appreciation for the Armenian culture and fighting spirit. 

Explore the City’s Old Quarters

Since Yerevan doesn’t have an official ‘old town’, that honor goes to the neighborhood of Kond. This area is located on a hillside to the west of Yerevan’s city center.

Kond dates back to the 17th century and includes houses built in Ottoman, Muslim, and Persian styles. In some places, the winding streets and narrow alleyways are only about 120 cm (47 inches) wide. 

You can reach this neighborhood via a steep street or one of the narrow staircases leading up from the main road. The area is mostly residential, with a few modern buildings here and there. 

Don’t expect to see a picturesque old town, as many buildings are broken down, and gardens are overgrown. However, most of this architecture dates back centuries, so you can enjoy a day wandering around and discovering the area’s rich history and hidden gems. 

Tour the Ararat Brandy Museum

Armenian brandy is famous worldwide and a source of great pride for the country. If you want to discover how these brandies are made, a tour of the Ararat Brandy Museum is one of the most interesting Yerevan activities to try. 

The first brandy production company in Armenia was founded in 1887. Today, the Yerevan Brandy Company has won many international awards and certificates.

You can take a two-hour guided tour at the Ararat Brandy Museum, where you’ll discover all the steps that go into the production of these well-known drinks. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy a delicious tasting of several iconic Ararat brandies. 

Note: You’ll need to book a tour on the museum website ahead of time. When you do the booking, you can choose which brandy tasting you would like to do. There is a price difference between the options. 

Browse the Vernissage Flea Market

This large open-air market is the ideal place to shop for souvenirs to take back home. Or you can just browse and enjoy the variety of traditional Armenian products on display. 

Vernissage is held behind the Republic Square metro every weekend from spring to fall. It started with a small group of artists in the 1980s and continued to expand over the years. 

Almost all the items at the market are handmade, including jewelry, ceramics, woven rugs, toys, and paintings. You can also find an interesting variety of books, vintage parts, electronics, and even pets on sale. 

Get Wet at the Vardavar Festival

Vardavar is also known as the ‘water holiday’ and is a very popular festival in Armenia. Every year in July, precisely 14 weeks after Easter, the whole country takes to the streets for a fun-filled day.

Just like the rest of the country, the city of Yerevan becomes a playground for adults and children alike. Everyone walks around with water guns, jugs, and buckets of water. 

There are no rules, and you can get splashed by complete strangers—so don’t expect to go home dry on this day. It is quite refreshing, as summer temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F). 

Besides the spontaneous splashing activities, you can also attend more organized events. The festival aims to promote the country’s traditions and culture, and you can listen to lovely performances of Armenian folk songs. 

Discover the Best Restaurants in Yerevan

Yerevan has a great restaurant scene and delicious cuisine for you to taste. When you walk through the city streets, you can find a mix of traditional taverns and modern wine bars. In the evening, you’ll see many locals eating and relaxing at outdoor cafés. 

Dolmama serves authentic Armenian food and is famous in Yerevan and abroad. The restaurant’s main dish is dolma , a ground meat dish wrapped in grape leaves. 

Lavash is another restaurant that serves traditional Armenian cuisine. Their specialty is lavash flatbread dishes, but they also have a variety of other local meals on their menu. On the first floor of the restaurant, you can watch the process of making the appetizing flatbread. 

If you’re interested in discovering Armenian nightlife, head to the El Sky Bar in Yerevan. This open-air cocktail bar is located on the 7th floor of the Yerevan Plaza Business Center. At El Sky Bar, you can listen to some of the best DJs while enjoying panoramic views of the city. 

Try the local craft beer

Armenian craft beer might not be as famous as the local brandy, but also in this small part of the world is the craft beer industry growing. While the main microbrewery in Yerevan is Dargett which has already been in the game for a few years already, the place serves some of the best western food in Yerevan and offers around 20 locally made beers on top.

While Dargett was the only local craft beer in Yerevan for a few years, so is there now also another craft beer bar worth visiting, The Dors.

Take A Day Trip from Yerevan

Armenia is quite small, so it is easy to take a day trip from Yerevan city to other parts of the country. You can travel on your own by private or public transport, or join a day trip from a local travel agency. 

One of the shortest day trips is to the Khor Virap Monastery in the Ararat Plains. The ancient stone monastery is an important historical site. From there, you also get spectacular views of Mount Ararat. 

For another short trip, you can combine a visit to the Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery . These two impressive buildings are only about 10 km (6 miles) apart, which makes it easy to see both in one day. 

The Garni Temple is a Greco-Roman structure dating back to the 1st century, and Geghard is a medieval monastery partially carved out of the mountain. 

Lake Sevan is a longer drive from Yerevan but well worth it for nature lovers. It is the largest lake in Armenia and the Caucasus region. You can enjoy stunning lake views and visit the nearby Sevanavank Monastery. 

If you are interested in space, consider a day trip to the Byurakan Observatory. This astronomical observatory was built in the 1900s during Soviet times. Back then, it housed the largest telescope in the whole Soviet Union. 

Things to Know When Visiting Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan is a beautiful place to visit with lots of exciting things to do. But while you’re planning your trip, there are also some practical tips that you should keep in mind. 

Is Armenia Safe For Travelers?

Yerevan, and Armenia in general, is a safe place to visit, even for solo travelers. Crime rates are low and don’t specifically target tourists. You can feel at ease walking through the city streets, using public transport, and going out to bars or restaurants at night. 

Although petty crimes like pickpocketing are not common, it never hurts to take some basic precautions. Try not to carry a lot of cash around, and you should be fine. 

The biggest concern you have to look out for in Armenia is road safety. Pay attention when you walk across the street and try to avoid driving at night. 

How to Get Into Yerevan

Visitors from most countries, including Australia, America, and countries in the European Union, don’t need a visa to enter Armenia. However, tourists from most African countries will need a visa. 

Tip: To check whether you’ll need a visa for your Yerevan trip, you can use this site .

There are many flights to Yerevan from countries in Europe and the Middle East. Flights land at Zvartnots International Airport, about 15 km (9 miles) from Yerevan. From there you can take a bus or taxi to the city. 

If you want to travel overland into Yerevan, you can only cross the border from Iran or Georgia. The Armenian borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan are closed. 

The most convenient overland option is to take a train from Tbilisi (in Georgia) to Yerevan. If you want to travel by bus, Georgia is a better option than Iran as the road quality is higher and the route is shorter. 

Getting Around in Yerevan

You can mostly walk around Yerevan since everything is relatively close together. If you want to travel somewhere farther, you can choose from a number of public and private transport options. 

The main public transport system in Yerevan are marshrutkas . These minivans act as shared taxis and drive all around the city. You’ll find it at bus stops, or you can wave one down from anywhere on the street. 

The city’s metro is very clean and safe to use. Of course, the trains stop at designated underground stations, so you have to plan your route and buy the correct ticket.

Yandex is a popular ride-hailing service that works much like Uber. You can download the app on your phone and use it to request a private taxi to your destination. The rides are safe and very affordable. 

Where to Stay

There are many affordable hostels and guest houses where you can stay when you visit Yerevan. Prices range from $14 to $30 (in 2021). 

It is best to stay in the ‘ring’ around the city center, as that puts all the top attractions within walking distance. If you want to stay outside the city center, choose a place that is close to a metro or bus station. 

The Highland Hostel is a great option for a shared living space in the city center. The small but spacious hostel can host ten people. There is a shared kitchen, lounge, and bathroom with a shower. You can easily walk to attractions such as Republic Square and the Opera Theater. 

If you want to stay in a guest house away from the bustling city center, Guest House Lilia is a comfortable and affordable choice. You can enjoy a continental breakfast every morning or make use of the shared kitchen. 

The Guest House Lilia has a currency exchange service for guests. It is also located close to a metro station, and several bus stops to give you easy access to the city’s landmarks. 

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yerevan is during spring or fall. The days are sunny but not too hot or cold to sit at an outdoor café. In spring, you can get great views of Mount Ararat, and there are beautiful flower markets on the streets.

Summer and winter are also suitable for visiting if you want to try certain activities, but the weather is generally not too pleasant.

Also, avoid visiting over the New Year period. Almost all the shops, restaurants and museums are closed during this time. 

Final Thoughts on Traveling to Yerevan in Armenia

If you’re planning an Armenia vacation, the capital city of Yerevan is a wonderful place to have on your bucket list. Walk around and discover a mixture of historic and modern sites. 

You’ll find everything from cathedrals and museums to bars and opera houses. Yerevan is a city with a rich culture and friendly people who will welcome you on your journey. 

Ready to pack your bags and head to Yerevan? Or have you already traveled through this amazing city? Share some of your experiences or future plans in the comments below. 

Sunday 6th of October 2019

Great article, thank you very much. I do have a quick question. Where can I get the high resolution image of the Opera Building? I would really appreciate it.

10 must see places in Yerevan: the Pink City of the Caucasus

Wednesday 10th of October 2018

[…] to more than one million people and covers roughly 230 square kilometers. You can try to discover Yerevan in 48 hours (0r so) but it’s far better to stay at least a few days to see as much as […]

Monday 18th of December 2017

Great post! My partner got sick in Yerevan and we ended up having to stay a lot longer than we planned, 10 days in total. Honestly, it was a great city to get stuck in!

Did you make it to the old GUM Market? Watching the ladies make their lavash bread was a highlight for me.

Christian L.

Heey. During my first visit to Yerevan, did I spend about a week there, I really like the city, but December is not the best time to spend a lot of time there. I visited the Gum Market during my first visit there:) PS. I gone use your post about Tusheti In Georgia for reference when im heading back to Georgia for the 6th time next year:)

Monday 11th of December 2017

Boring city but around its wonderful

• Discounted tours
• Caucasus Tours
• Armenia Tours
• Georgia Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Wine & Food Tours

12 Fun Things to Do in Yerevan And Places to Visit

Embark on an exhilarating trip to Yerevan, the beating heart of Armenia!! As you may already know, Armenia is a country with captivating nature and unique culture. Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest cities, that has been continuously inhabited, showcases the rich history and traditions of the country. The city is a popular tourist destination offering an array of cultural and entertaining sites coupled with different activities for your pleasure.  If you want to have a memorable experience, we have compiled a selection of the top 5 fun things to do in Yerevan along with  7 must-see places to visit.

Top 5 activities to do in Yerevan

1. explore yerevan park:.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Yerevan Park seems to be an ideal destination for you. As the biggest amusement park in the city, it offers a wide range of thrilling attractions including a Roller Coaster, Thrill Coaster, Rotating Ship, and much more. But If you are not into rides, fret not – Yerevan Park is also a fantastic place to socialize, enjoy special performances, grab a bite to eat at the food court, or simply relax in the leisure zone.  In a word, Yerevan Park has something for everyone of all ages looking for entrainment and fun things to do in Yerevan.

2. Experience Yerevan's Nightlife:

Exploring the nightlife in Yerevan offers a delightful opportunity to get new acquaintances while reveling in your favorite tunes.  There is a diverse selection of clubs in Yerevan meeting all music tastes. Whether you are a  jazz devotee, rock enthusiast, blues lover, or pop fan, you can have an unforgettable night out in the city. Malkhas Jazz Club is a perfect spot to enjoy jazz music. Meanwhile, dance lovers seeking live music can groove the night away at, Yerevan’s nightlife hotspots such as Mezzo Classic House Club, Kami Music Club, and Club 12, and more, promising an unforgettable experience.

3. Discover Zoopark and Botanic Garden:

  Looking for a fun-filled activity in Yerevan? Look no further than Yerevan Zoopark.   It offers an exciting opportunity to observe a variety of animal species from all over the world. If you’re traveling with children, the Zoopark is a must-see place. Kids love going to the Zoo and seeing diverse animals. If you are seeking a break from urban life and a closer connection to nature, the Botanic Garden is an excellent option. Located in the capital city, the Botanic Garden allows visitors to reconnect with nature and admire an extensive collection of both local and exotic plant species found in Armenia.

4. Cool off at Yerevan’s outdoor pools:

One of the best things to do in Yerevan during the summer is to cool off in the city’s open-air pools. Yerevan has scorching summers with temperatures potentially hitting 40°C in July and August. So, the city offers the best escape from the heat, providing plenty of amazing outdoor pools near hotels or sports complexes. The Swimming Pool of Congress Hotel, The Pool, and Hills Sports Complex stand out as one of the most favored options for enjoyable entertainment in Yerevan .

5. Stroll in Saryan Street:

 If you’re a wine lover or in search of a vibrant atmosphere, Saryan Street in Yerevan should be on your list. The street is famous for hosting the annual Yerevan Wine Days festival, which takes place in the months of  May and June, between Saryan and Tumanyan Streets. But If you happen to miss visiting Yerevan during the Wine Days, don’t worry. Saryan Street offers a charming experience year-round, with opportunities to try out wines and appreciate art. So, it is a fantastic place to experience the lively spirit of Yerevan.

7 must-visit places in Yerevan

1. the cascade complex:.

Cascade Complex stands as one of Yerevan’s tourist attractions , located in the heart of the city. It surely holds the first position on your list of top things to do in Yerevan. With nearly 600 steps and various levels, the Cascade Complex is surrounded by fascinating sculptures and fountains. It houses the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, a venue that showcases a wide range of modern artworks and sculptures. If climbing 600 stairs doesn’t appeal to you, there are escalators for your convenience. Upon entering the complex, visitors are greeted by exhibits on both sides of the hall. The escalators lead to the top where one can relish a breathtaking view of the city and  Biblical Mount Ararat on clear days. The Cascade Complex is a popular and favorite destination among locals and tourists as it never fails to leave a lasting impression, even upon repeat visits. From early in the morning to late evening, people enjoy spending time at the Complex and its neighboring cafes and coffee shops offering tasty cuisine in a peaceful atmosphere.

2. Republic Square:

 Nestled in the heart of Yerevan, Republic Square will amaze you with its unique architectural ensemble that includes the Government House, the History Museum, and the National Gallery. In addition to these impressive structures, Republic Square is an excellent spot to enjoy pleasant evenings in Yerevan. The highlight of this location, attracting visitors from across the world, is the fascinating dancing fountains. They are delightful evening attractions that appear to gracefully dance to the rhythm of the music, creating a mesmerizing experience. 

3. Vernissage Market:

 A visit to Vernissage is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things to do in Yerevan.   Situated near Republic Square, Vernissage is an open-air market that offers a deep dive into Armenian traditions. You will find local handicrafts, art, souvenirs, antiques, handmade carpets, traditional musical instruments, and more. Many artists are happy to interact with tourists, tell them stories about Armenian traditions, and offer insights into their creative t techniques and sources of inspiration.

4. Kond Neighborhood:

If you want to delve into the historical and cultural heritage of Yerevan, Kond should be an essential stop on your Yerevan tour . As one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, Kond traces its origin back to the medieval era. It’s fascinating to see how people live there nowadays. The ancient-style homes, where multiple families share the same entrance, create a unique sense of community. The well-preserved modest houses, windows, and doors transport you back in time.  Kond’s most captivating dwellings are the ones that once served as mosques. You will notice them at first glimpse as the roofs and some parts have remained unchanged over the years.

5. Yerevan Brandy Factory:

  Armenia is renowned for its brandy production. If you are interested in brandy production, a  visit to the “Ararat”  local brandy factory in Yerevan is a must. Established in 1877, Ararat Brandy offers special tours for both locals and tourists providing an opportunity to explore the brandy-making process and sample a variety of brandies. An intriguing historical note about Ararat Brandy is that Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, held a strong affinity for it. Joseph Stalin once gifted Churchill a bottle of “Dvin” brandy, which he enjoyed so much that he requested more. As a result, 400 bottles of Dvin were sent to Churchill every year. 

6. Museums in Yerevan:

Exploring Yerevan’s cultural heritage, including its fascinating museums, is an essential point on your list of things to do in Yerevan. As a city with a rich cultural heritage, Yerevan is home to many museums: Matenadaran, which preserves ancient manuscripts and is named after Mespor Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian Alphabet, is particularly captivating.  One remarkable aspect about Matenadaran is that it houses the first-ever Armenian-published book. Another must-see place in Yerevan is the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex , which holds great significance in Armenian history. Every year, on April 24th, thousands of Armenians gather there to pay tribute to the victims of the Armenian Genocide in 1915. When you visit Republic Square, The National Art Gallery can be a great stop to add to your city center’s stroll. Being the largest art gallery in Yerevan, it houses an extensive collection of both Armenian and international art, showcasing works from various countries, including France, Italy, Germany, Russia, and more. But the list of museums doesn’t end here. In Yerevan, you can visit the Sergei Parajanov Museum, History Museum of Armenia, Museum of Folk Arts, Erebuni Museum, and many more.

7. Dazzling Restaurant and Cafes:

You’ve probably heard about Armenian delicious cuisine, and you definitely don’t want to miss the opportunity to experience it firsthand when you visit Yerevan. Sherep, Qamancha, Yerevan Tavern , and Lavash are among the most popular restaurants in the city where you can explore traditional Armenian dishes. And as you embark on your culinary journey in Yerevan, make sure to try some iconic classics like Khorovats (Armenian barbecue), Dolma, and Armenian bread lavash, all paired perfectly with a glass of locally produced Armenian wine.

Yerevan guarantees an unforgettable experience during your visit to Armenia.  In addition to delving into the history of the city and Armenian traditions, Yerevan is also a hub for an array of activities and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for things to do in Yerevan. As you explore the city, you’ll admire the timeless beauty of the Cascade Complex, the captivating dancing fountains at Republic Square, and the unique character of the Kond neighborhood. Alongside the city’s must-visit museums,  Yerevan offers ample of opportunities for adventure-seekers. So, whether you visit Yerevan to explore the cultural heritage and create beautiful memories, Yerevan gives a warm welcome to everyone!

Small group tours to Caucasus

Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia Highlighs 14 days

Best Of Armenia And Georgia

Armenia and Georgia Tour 13 days

Armenia and Eastern Turkey

Azerbaijan Georgia Armenia Tour 20 days

Georgia Authentic Tour 10 days

Cultural Exploration In Armenia

Georgia and Armenia Tour 19 days

Hiking Tour To Armenia

Classical Tour To Georgia

Armenia Wine & Food Adventure

Walking The Transcaucasian Trail Armenia

Trek and Climb Armenian Volcanoes

Multi Activity Tour in Armenia

Armenia-Georgia Wine & Gourmet Tour

Cycling Tour in Armenia

Rima hayrapetyan.

Download & enter email to get exciting info about Caucasus

Places To Visit In Yerevan

Travel essentials.

Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: April - June, September - November Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

• Filter (12)
• Art Gallery (2)
• Landmark (2)
• Garden & Park (2)

1. Vernissage

1 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

Vernissage in Yerevan is a vibrant open-air market that showcases a wide array of traditional Armenian crafts, artworks, souvenirs, antiques, and local products. This bustling market takes place in the heart of Yerevan, Armenia's capital, usually on weekends, attracting both locals and tourists.

2. Armenian Genocide Memorial complex

2 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, also known as Tsitsernakaberd, is a significant memorial dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Located in Yerevan, Armenia, this memorial stands as a solemn commemoration of the tragic events that took place during the early 20th century.

3. The Matenadaran

3 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

Named after Mesrop Mashtots, the creator of the Armenian alphabet, the Matenadaran is one of the world's richest and most significant depositories of Armenian manuscripts and documents. The Matenadaran, located in Yerevan, Armenia, is home to a staggering collection of over 23,000 ancient manuscripts, dating back centuries. These manuscripts cover a wide array of subjects, including theology, philosophy, history, medicine, literature, and science, written in Armenian and other languages.

4. The Sergei Parajanov Museum

4 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Sergei Parajanov Museum, located in Yerevan, Armenia, pays homage to the life and artistic legacy of the renowned filmmaker and artist Sergei Parajanov. This museum stands as a tribute to Parajanov's unique vision, creativity, and contributions to the world of cinema and art.

Yerevan Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Exploring Armenia: 4N/5D Tour Package

Exciting armenia: 6-day tour package, magnificent armenia: 6 nights/7 days package, armenia uncovered: 7n/8d tour package, quick getaway to armenia: 3 day tour package, mesmerizing armenia: 5n/6d tour package, 5. cafesjian center for the arts.

5 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Cafesjian Center for the Arts, situated in Yerevan, Armenia, stands as a prominent cultural institution dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and fostering artistic appreciation and creativity.

6. Republic Square

6 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

Republic Square, located in the heart of Yerevan, Armenia, stands as a monumental centerpiece of the city's architectural and cultural landscape. This grand square, known as "Hraparak" in Armenian, is characterized by its expansive open space, surrounded by magnificent buildings, government offices, and cultural landmarks. At the center of the square stands the majestic "Dancing Fountains," an iconic feature that captivates visitors with its synchronized water and light performances.

Top Hotels In Yerevan

9.8 (364 reviews)

₽ 8,876 onwards

9.7 (120 reviews)

₽ 5,849 onwards

9.7 (39 reviews)

₽ 4,620 onwards

9.6 (457 reviews)

₽ 8,421 onwards

9.6 (182 reviews)

₽ 3,641 onwards

9.6 (35 reviews)

₽ 5,348 onwards

7. Ararat Museum

7 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Ararat Museum in Yerevan, Armenia, showcases the rich history, cultural significance, and iconic symbolism of Mount Ararat, a revered symbol in Armenian heritage. The museum highlights Mount Ararat's profound significance in Armenian culture, religion, art, and national identity through various exhibits, artifacts, artworks, and multimedia presentations. Visitors can explore the geological, historical, and cultural aspects of Mount Ararat, including its depiction in Armenian art, literature, and folklore.

8. Cascade Complex

8 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Cascade Complex in Yerevan, Armenia, is a monumental stairway and architectural masterpiece that blends art, culture, and urban design. This impressive structure, resembling a giant stairway, connects downtown Yerevan to the residential area above. Designed in a cascading fashion, the complex comprises a series of broad steps interspersed with terraces, gardens, sculptures, and fountains. The Cascade offers panoramic views of the city and Mount Ararat, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

9. Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre

9 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre, founded in 1933 and located in Yerevan, stands as a beacon of Armenia's cultural prowess. This iconic institution mesmerizes audiences with its stunning opera and ballet performances, showcasing a diverse repertoire that spans classic masterpieces to contemporary works. Renowned globally for its talented artists and captivating productions, the theater's opulent design and grand interiors enhance the experience, attracting both local aficionados and international visitors. Beyond its role as a performance venue, the theater serves as a nurturing ground for budding Armenian artists, offering training programs to hone their skills and contribute to the rich legacy of Armenian opera and ballet.

10. Eduard Issabekyan Gallery

10 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

The Eduard Issabekyan Gallery is a cultural institution in Yerevan, Armenia, dedicated to showcasing the works of Eduard Issabekyan, a prominent Armenian painter. The gallery serves as a tribute to Issabekyan's artistic legacy and contributions to the Armenian art scene.

11. Yerevan Park

11 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

One of the prominent parks in Yerevan is the Lovers' Park, also known as the English Park or Yerevan Park. Lovers' Park is a serene and picturesque green space nestled in the heart of the city. It's a favorite spot for leisurely strolls, family outings, and romantic walks. The park features well-manicured lawns, tree-lined pathways, colorful flower beds, and charming bridges over ponds and streams, creating a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city.

12. Victory Park

12 out of 12 Places To Visit in Yerevan

Victory Park, located in Yerevan, Armenia, is a significant landmark and a tribute to the country's victory in World War II. It was inaugurated in 1995 on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

Browse Package Collections

Nearby destinations for packages.

Ho Chi Minh City

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Home » Travel Guides » Armenia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

Armenia is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction, with the small but charming nation boasting a rich history.

Armenia, which was the first country to declare Christianity as its national religion, boasts some of Europe’s most stunning views, with the peak of Mount Ararat dominating the country’s skyline. The mountain is Armenia’s national symbol despite its peak lying just over the Turkish border and Ararat is considered holy by locals due to its mention in The Bible – it is where Noah’s Ark landed.

Armenia is home to countless beautiful monasteries and they are often found in areas of truly outstanding natural beauty. Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, is one of the most rapidly developing cities in the whole of Europe as the nation continues to embrace tourism. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Armenia !

By far the largest city in Armenia, the capital Yerevan is a great place to start for anyone wishing to explore Armenia. The city is home to the grand Republic Square, while climbing the Cascade to see the city’s monument to Soviet victory in the Second World War is a must.

Yerevan is a deeply historic city and visiting the Armenian Genocide Memorial is a must to learn more about the nation’s troubled past. Vernissage market is worth visiting too – it is open at the weekend – while a walk through the Hrazdan gorge is also highly recommended.

Much of what Armenia has to offer can be explored during day trips from Yerevan, which is known as the City of Cafes.

Yerevan is also home to Blue Mosque, which is the only mosque in the whole of the country, as well as Levon’s Amazing Underground World, which is one of Europe’s most unusual attractions.

2. Shikahogh State Reserve

The second largest forest reserve in Armenia, Shikahogh State Reserve is so unspoiled that large parts of it remains unexplored to this day.

The forest is believed to be home to animals including leopards, bears, wild goats and vipers and it is also thought that Shikahogh State Reserve has about 1,100 species of plants, although its fauna has not yet been fully explored. The reserve was threatened by a planned highway in 2005, but environments successfully lobbied for the forest’s future to be protected.

The reserve also has a number of very beautiful waterfalls to enjoy.

3. Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan, found in the heart of Armenia, is the country’s largest lake and a beautiful place to visit during a break in the country. The lake is surrounded by some stunning monasteries – the most impressive of them being arguably the Sevanavank Monastery – providing a glorious scenic backdrop to a relaxing trip.

Windsurfing is among the recreation activities available at the lake, which also has a wide choice of excellent seafood restaurants along its shore.

Lake Sevan has a number of popular beaches and, as the country has no coastline, this is the best place in Armenia to sunbathe, with Sevan Bay and its surrounding mountains providing spectacular scenery.

4. Dilijan National Park

Armenia has four national parks and Dilijan national park may be the most beautiful of the lovely quartet. The park, which was only established in 2002, is famous for its medicinal mineral water springs, as well as its natural monuments.

Many of Armenia’s more important cultural locations can be found within the grounds of the park, such as Haghartsin Monastery, Goshavank Monastery  and Jukhtak Vank, as well as Matosavank Monastery and the Akhnabat church.

The Aghestev and Getik river basins are also both within the boundaries of Dilijan national park.

5. Mount Aragats

Mount Aragats is one of Armenia’s most stunning natural sights, with the dormant volcano located in the north of the country. It is Armenia’s highest peak and there is a lot of rock art to be enjoyed around its base, with paintings of animals and human-like figures dating back hundreds of years.

Snow covers the peak almost all year-round but Mount Aragats can be climbed, with July, August and September the best times of the year to attempt the hike.

The southernmost of the four peaks is the easiest to climb, while the northern peak, at around 4,000 metres, is the most challenging.

6. Lake Arpi

While Lake Sevan can be extremely crowded during the peak tourist season, Lake Arpi has a much more relaxed feel.

Used for irrigation and hydropower production, Lake Arpi is also the source of the Akhurian River. In 2009 a new park was established around the lake to protect the natural environment, with around 100 species of birds known to live in the area. Lake Arpi also hosts rich flora and fauna and is a Ramsar Convention protected site.

Lake Arpi has one the largest colonies of Armenian Gull and its recreation activities include camping and walking tours.

7. Noravank

Monasteries are one of Armenia’s defining characteristics and the example at Noravank is one of the most beautiful in the whole country. Sheer brick-red cliffs shield the monastery, which was built in the 13th century.

Noravank is famous for its Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) church, while the story goes that the monastery was saved by God himself when Armenia was conquered by the Mongols hundreds of years ago.

If you only choose to go to one monastery during a trip to Armenia, Noravank would be an extremely good selection – thousands of people visit every year.

The second largest city in Armenia, Gyumri is well worth a visit for anyone heading to the country for the first time. Perhaps the best place from which to enjoy the sights of Gyumri is from the Black Fortress on the hill that overlooks the city, while the massive Mother Armenia statue can also be found nearby.

Many of the most important cultural institutions of Armenia are in Gyumri, such as the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture of Gyumri, as well as the Aslamazyan Sisters House-Museum and the Sergey Merkurov House-Museum.

The Kumayri Historic District is Gyumri’s oldest area, with a thousand ancient buildings found here.

9. Vanadzor

Armenia’s third major city is Vanadzor, which is located in the north of the country. Vanadzor is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Lori region, which is certainly one of the best places to visit in Armenia.

The Vanadzor Botanical Garden is one of the finest tourist attractions in the city, while visitors should also consider checking out the Vanadzor fine art museum. The many mineral springs of the Lori region mean there are a wide range of terrific spas to enjoy in and around Vanadzor.

Although Vanadzor is primarily an industrial city, it also houses many theatres, such as the Bohem Chamber Theatre of Vanadzor and the Vanadzor Puppet Theatre.

10. Amberd Fortress

Dating back to the seventh century, Amberd Fortress is one of the most stunning places to visit in Armenia. Formerly among the Armenian Kingdom’s primary military-defensive points, the fortress can be reached in about an hour from the capital city Yerevan.

However, snowfall can make the fortress inaccessible during the winter months, with the weather usually improving by late May. The view from the top of the fortress is truly breathtaking, while the building itself is also stunning.

Amberd Fortress is a short trip from the village of Byurakan, home of the Byurakan Observatory.

11. Tsaghkadzor

Armenia’s mountainous scenery makes it ideal for winter sports and the country’s best ski resort can be found at Tsaghkadzor in the heart of the country. Ski lifts are paid for by the ride and are among the most affordable in Europe.

Tsaghkadzor boasts some of the finest hotels in the country, while the resort also has one of the nation’s biggest entertainment centers in the form of the Senator Royale casino complex.

Tsaghkadzor also has the Kecharis Monastery, which is one of Armenia’s most important religious complexes, dating back to the start of the 11th century.

12. Upper Azat Valley

The Upper Azat Valley is one of Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, partly due to the incredible Geghard Monastery for which the region is most famous. The main chapel was built 800 years ago but the history of the monastery goes all the way back to the fourth century, when it was founded by Gregory the Illuminator.

According to legend, the Geghard Monastery once housed one of the spears that was used to crucify Jesus Christ, brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, and as such it is one of Armenia’s most important religious sites.

The Upper Azat Valley is also home to the St Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) chapel, which is partially carved out of the rock.

13. Karahunj Observatory

Often referred to internationally as Armenia’s version of Britain’s Stonehenge, Karahunj is one of the most fascinating places to visit during a break in Armenia.

Located close to the city of Sisian in the Syunik province, Karahunj is made up of well over 200 massive stone tombs, while the main area sees 40 stones standing in a circular formation, supposedly built in honour of the Armenian main God, Ari, named after the Sun.

A small museum in Sisian is dedicated to findings that have been made at Karahunj, which is claimed to be the oldest observatory of its kind in the world.

14. Khor Virap

Views of Mount Ararat can be enjoyed from all over Armenia, but perhaps the best scenery of the mountain can be found from the Khor Virap monastery, which is definitely also worth visiting in its own right.

This location is one of the most important historic sites in Armenia’s history as it was where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for 14 years before he cured King Trdat III of his disease. The King then converted to Christianity, paving the way for Armenia’s religious future.

As such, Khor Virap is a popular spot for Armenian weddings today, while the underground chamber in which Gregory the Illuminator was held can be visited during a trip to Khor Virap, which is among Armenia’s most visited pilgrimage sites as a result.

Our final selection for the best places to visit in Armenia is Dvin, one of the country’s oldest cities – in fact, it was the capital of Armenia in medieval times. A sixth century BC fortress was also once situated in Dvin, according to Unesco, while incredible artefacts are regularly found in this part of Armenia.

More modern sights can also be enjoyed in the city, such as the St. Harutyun Church in Dvin, which was built in 2000.

Dvin once housed the Cathedral of St. Grigor, but all that remains of the building today is the stone foundations that have been uncovered by archeologists.

15 Best Places to Visit in Armenia:

• Shikahogh State Reserve
• Dilijan National Park
• Mount Aragats
• Amberd Fortress
• Tsaghkadzor
• Upper Azat Valley
• Karahunj Observatory

• Visit The Best 10 Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Perth, Scotland
• Explore 14 Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Füssen, Germany
• 20 Lovely Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Tours, France
• 21 Popular Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Basel, Switzerland
• The Best 40 Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Corfu, Greece

Top Things to Do in Yerevan

Yerevan is a city which has seen much violence & destruction throughout its history. Being a strategically important geographical location, it was always enticed in wars & was conquered by different empires. The places to visit in Yerevan include Cathedrals, Museums, Forts, Churches, Archeological sites, Art Galleries, and Home Museums. The things to do in Yerevan include biplane ride, shopping, ice-skating, and being part of festivals. Yerevan is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The ruins of Erebuni Fortress, one of the major things to see in Yerevan, are the oldest evidence of civilized society living there. Yerevan travel can be full of historical insights as there are several museums around the city. This also includes house museums among Yerevan tourist attractions . These were houses belonging to people of significance in the history of Yerevan, which have now been converted in museum displaying personal collections & often the life of the famed owner of the house. Some of these are also cafe-museums and form an extended part of Yerevan sightseeing. Armenia had felt the footsteps of Christianity very early. The Etchmiadzin Cathedral is considered by many to be the oldest cathedral in the world. This cathedral is the most important among religious places to visit in Yerevan as it also the mother church of Armenian Apostolic church. The Geghard Monastery is another such religiously significant Yerevan tourist attractions. But, it is not just churches & cathedrals, the places to visit in Yervan come in huge variety. One of the most popular Yerevan tourist attractions is the Yerevan Cascade Complex. Climbing the limestone stairwell is one of the popular things to do in Yerevan, and almost every tourist on Yerevan travel has attempted it. Once on top you get to see one of the most beautiful places in Yerevan to view Mount Ararat. If you like historical scavenger hunt, you should try  hunting for various statues spread across the city. Many of these Yerevan attractions are historical statues and some are erected for artistic appeal. The Opera House & Matanadaren are also among things to see in Yerevan. If you are not planning to explore aside from Yerevan travel, then you should try out the exception traditional Armenian cuisine in the capital city itself. Exploring cuisines of including Gata, Dolma, Lavash, Harissa and more is among popular things to do in Yerevan. There are also several food festivals taking place in the city throughout the year, where you can find most of these dishes in one place. There are festivals dedicated to each one of the dishes, but they take place in other provinces of Armenia . Though the beer festival & wine days festivals are major Yerevan attractions. One of the most festive time to visit Yerevan is on the city’s birthday. Anniversary of Erebuni-Yerevan is celebrated as the birthday of this 2800+ years old city. Another wonderful time to visit Yerevan would be Taraz festival when people dress up in their traditional Armenian attire. It is a unique day for Yerevan sightseeing. The traditional dance and music performances are a must things to see in Yerevan. The hot-air balloon festival is yet another festival popular among Yerevan attractions. You can hop on the balloon and go Yerevan sightseeing from the sky. There are many such fun and engaging festivals taking place in this lively city. If you are on Yerevan travel during any of these festivals, you should be a part of it. It won’t be expensive and you will have a unique experience on your things to do in Yerevan list. Compared to other major cities of Europe, Yerevan is very pocket friendly. But, you won’t feel out of grand Europe, as the city was designed by Alexander Tamanyan under the Russian rule to be like the uber artistic European cities. Hence, there are several beautiful places in Yerevan, which look very European. All the things to do in Yerevan Armenia are inexpensive, save only a few lavish experiences. You can thoroughly enjoy yourself in terms of traveling, exploring, experiencing, eating, etc. without spending much when you visit Yerevan. The public transport infrastructure is great in Yerevan. Though most of the places to visit in Yerevan are at walking distances, you will find it incredibly easy to get around in the city using public transport. It is cheaper than taxi for Yerevan sightseeing and you also get to converse with the local crowd. Yerevan is a city which has various offerings as well as visual appeal of major European cities without costing as much. Visit Yerevan especially for the culture & the super fun festivals. There are several historical places to visit in Yeravan and equally abundant art galleries. Exploring art is one of the popular things to do in Yerevan, Armenia. Being the capital city, the art & culture blooms here, both traditional & modern.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Yerevan, Armenia

Monuments, museums & historical places to visit in yerevan, armenia.

• Republic Square
• Matenadaran
• Mother Armenia Monument
• Etchmiadzin Cathedral
• Armenian Opera Theatre
• Geghard Monastary
• Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, Yerevan
• History Museum of Armenia
• Blue Mosque Yerevan
• Erebuni Fortress
• Sergie Paradjanov Museum
• National Gallery of Armenia
• Erebuni Museum
• Zoravor Surp Astvatsatsin Church
• Yerevan History Museum
• Martiros Saryan House Museum
• The Armenian Genocide Museum / Tsitsernakaberd
• Saint Sargis Vicarial Church
• Katoghike Church
• Megerian Carpet Museum Armenia
• Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum
• Aram Khachaturyan House Museum
• Teishebaini Archeological Site
• Ararat Museum
• Charent’s Arch
• Levon’s Divine Underground
• Komitas Museum
• Folk Art Museum
• Holy Trinity Church Yerevan
• Charent’s Museum of Literature & Arts
• Saint Sarkis Church Nor Nork
• Shengavit Settlement Archeological Site
• Museum of Russian Art
• Church of the Intercession of the Holy Mother of God
• Yeghishe Charent’s House Museum
• Avetik Isahakyan House Museum
• Aguletsi House Museum
• Saint Anna Church
• House Museum of Alexander Spendiaryan
• Giotto Museum
• Kond Gallery
• Ervand Kochar Museum
• Armenian Geological Museum
• Lusik Aguleci House Museum

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Places to Visit in Yerevan, Armenia

• Yerevan Lake
• State Museum of Nature of Armenia

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Places to visit in Yerevan, Armenia

• Cafesjian Center for the Arts
• Yerevan Noy Wine, Brandy, Vodka Factory
• Yerevan Zoo
• Yerevan Dancing Fountain
• Yerevan Water World
• Modern Art Museum of Yerevan
• Yerevan Brandy Company
• Botanical Garden
• Mirzoyan Library
• Dalan Art Gallery
• Areni Winery
• Aznavour Center
• Eduard Isabekyan Gallary Yerevan
• Casino Shangri La
• Yerevan 2800th Anniversary Park
• Haghtanak Amusement Park

Shopping in Yerevan, Armenia

• Vernissage Market
• Abovyan Street
• Northern Avenue
• Yerevan Mall
• Metronome Shopping Center
• Dalma Garden Mall
• Rossia Mall
• TUMO Studios
• Martiros Saryan Park
• Antique Carpets
• Shan Crafts Center
• Gafesjian Museum Store

Offbeat Places, Tours & Adventure Things to do in Yerevan, Armenia

• Yerevan Zipline
• Ice Skating

Sightseeing in Yerevan, Armenia

• Cascade Complex
• Victory Park Yerevan
• Red Bridge Yerevan
• Yerevan Freedom Square
• Charles Aznavour Square
• Karen Demirtchian Sports Complex
• Sasuntsi David Statue
• Smoking Woman Statue
• Victory Bridge
• France Square
• Big Blue Kiwi Statue
• Alexander Tamanyan Square
• Arno Babajanyan Statue
• Mother Armenia Statue
• Zoravar Andranik Statue
• Circular Park
• Garegin Nzhdehi Square
• Davtashen Bridge
• Lover’s Park
• Tumanyan Park
• English Park Yerevan
• Misak Manouchian Park

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Yerevan, Armenia

• Vernissage Street Food
• Zhingyalov Hats
• Hrazdan Gorge
• Charentsi 28
• Lavash Restaurant
• Wine Republic
• Gastropolis Food Market
• Shame Gastrobar
• Seasons Restaurant
• Dragon Garden
• Kovkas Pandok
• August Cafeteria
• Tumanyan Khinkali
• Tumanyan Shaurma
• Old Beijing
• Tatik Papik
• Hans & Franz

How to Reach Yerevan, Armenia?

Your best bet fro Yerevan travel is Zvartnots International Airport resting in the national capital city. For international travelers this is the most convenient access to visit Yerevan. From the Airport you can access the public transport, or taxi to reach other places to visit in Yerevan.

Though Armenia shares borders with 4 countries, you have international road access for Armenia travel from Georgia alone. From within Armenia the road infrastructure is connected but not in very good shape. You will find it bumpy to reach places to visit in Yerevan outside the main city. There are several things to do in Yerevan which are easily accessible by road, given the bouncy potholes laden ride though.

There are no waterways to visit Yerevan. Once upon a time when the entire world was flooded, Noah did find a water-route to Armenia & touched down on Mount Ararat. That’s in the Bible, no dispute there.  But since then Yerevan travel is primarily dependent on air routes & roads.

• Things to Do and Places to Visit in La Massana, Andorra
• Warner Bros. World in Abu Dhabi

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

You May Also Like

Things to Do and Sightseeing in Artashat, Armenia

Historic and Natural Places to Visit in Tavush Province

Tourist Places to Visit in Gegharkunik Province

MAPS & BOOKS

Tourist maps

On the initiative of the Yerevan Municipality, in 2022, tourist maps were published in  Armenian,   English ,  French, Russian,   German , and  Farsi .

These maps show the capital's tourist attractions: historical and cultural monuments, museums, including the Armenian Genocide Memorial complex, galleries, churches, parks, and the Yerevan Zoo.

Metro and bike stops are also marked on the map to help you easily navigate the center of the capital.

The map contains useful information and many recommendations for tourists.

"Yerevan in your pocket" guidebook

2021 & 2019

Thematic map of Yerevan