Things To Do
in Yerevan
Yerevan is Armenia’s compact, sun-bathed capital perched near the silhouette of Mount Ararat and layered with 2,800 years of history. The city blends Soviet-era pink tuff architecture, lively open squares and modern cafés with a deep cultural pride in music, literature and wine. Strolling Yerevan reveals museums, churches, markets and terraces where locals gather for long conversations over strong coffee.
It’s a friendly, walkable city that also serves as a convenient base for dramatic day trips to monasteries, volcanic gorges and highland lakes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Republic Square, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafes, sampling traditional Armenian pastries like gata and a warm cup of Armenian coffee. As you stroll through the square, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the local artists showcasing their talents.
After lunch, head to the Cascade Complex, an impressive stairway filled with gardens and sculptures, offering panoramic views of the city and Mount Ararat. Explore the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, where you can view contemporary art exhibitions and perhaps even catch a live performance. Spend some time relaxing in the nearby gardens, enjoying the serenity amidst the bustling city.
As the sun sets, make your way to the opera theater for an evening performance or simply to enjoy its beautiful facade illuminated at night. Afterward, dine at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like dolma and khorovats, paired with Armenian wine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Northern Avenue, soaking in the lively ambiance filled with street musicians and bustling cafes.
Begin your morning with a trip to the ancient site of Garni Temple, a Hellenistic structure perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring the temple, indulge in a traditional Armenian breakfast at a nearby local home, where you can taste homemade lavash and fresh cheese. Spend some time walking around the village of Garni, immersing yourself in the local culture and hospitality.
Next, visit the nearby Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into the rock, and marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate stonework. Explore the peaceful grounds, listening to the echoes of church bells and the gentle sounds of nature surrounding you. Take a moment to reflect in this serene environment, perhaps lighting a candle in one of the chapels.
Return to Yerevan and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering spectacular views of the city skyline. Savor traditional Armenian dishes while watching the sunset over Mount Ararat. After dinner, consider visiting a local jazz club to experience Armenia's vibrant music scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee (cappuccino) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3–5 km) | $2-6 |
| 🚌Public transport fare (bus/metro) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (double, per night) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with compact, walkable center
- Excellent day-trip options to monasteries, gorges and lakes
- Friendly locals and a vibrant café and wine scene
- Affordable compared with many European capitals
- Hot summers and cold winters can limit some activities
- Language barriers outside tourist areas (Armenian/Russian primarily)
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities (few metro lines)
- Regional political sensitivities may affect travel to border areas
- "Barev" - Hello
- "Shnorhakalutyun" - Thank you
- "Khndrum em" - Please
- "Nerets'ek" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Inchqan e?" - How much is it?
- "Vortev e ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Angleren masin kateghadr en?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tavich'k' em" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Yerevan
Visit one of these nice places.
Terraced stairway with contemporary sculptures, panoramic viewpoints over the city and framed views of Mount Ararat on clear days; great at sunrise or sunset.
Classic pink tuff buildings, evening fountain light shows and bustling city life — strong architecture and geometric compositions.
Iconic monastery with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Ararat (especially photogenic at golden hour); excellent for wide landscape shots.
Museum exterior and interior with ancient manuscripts, ornate rooms and architectural details that photograph well with a telephoto or detailed close-ups.
Dramatic basalt columns and river gorge; ideal for landscape and geological photography.
Panoramic viewpoints over Yerevan, monuments and sweeping cityscapes, especially atmospheric in late afternoon light.
Blue waters and historic monasteries on the peninsula; striking contrasts on windy, clear days.
Food in Yerevan
Yerevan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Armenian barbecue — skewered grilled meats (pork, lamb or chicken) served with lavash; found at casual eateries and specialty khorovats restaurants.
Must-Try!
Grape leaves or cabbage stuffed with spiced rice and meat (or vegetarian versions) — widely available at family-style restaurants and feasts.
A slow-cooked porridge of wheat and meat, hearty and traditional; often served at celebrations and specialty traditional restaurants.
Fresh local cheeses (such as matsun yogurt and various brined cheeses) eaten with thin lavash bread from local bakeries.
Armenia’s millennia-old winemaking is showcased in local wines (Areni variety) and famed brandy (cognac-style), available in restaurants and tastings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
GUM Market and nearby produce markets are good for fresh fruit, cheese, dried fruits and nuts; Saryan Street (on weekends) hosts food stalls and baked goods—try street bread, shawarma-style wraps and fresh grilled corn.
The large open-air arts and crafts market also features snack vendors and cafes nearby where you can sample local pastries and kebabs while shopping for souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Armenians are warm and hospitable: handshakes are common among men, a nod or light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends; accept offers of food or drink politely and reciprocate generosity.
Dress modestly in religious sites, speak quietly and avoid disruptive behavior at memorials (Tsitsernakaberd is solemn).
The Armenian Genocide and relations with neighboring countries are sensitive topics; approach conversations respectfully and be mindful of local perspectives.
When visiting a home, it’s polite to remove shoes if the host indicates; bringing a small gift (sweets, fruit) is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Yerevan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: 5–10% in restaurants is common if service is good, rounding up taxi fares is normal, and small tips for guides or hotel staff are welcome.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops in Yerevan, but carry cash (Armenian dram) for markets, small vendors and minibuses. ATMs are common in the city; notify your bank about travel to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings mild, gradually warming weather and blossoming fruit trees; ideal for sightseeing and countryside excursions before summer crowds.
June–August is warm to hot and dry in Yerevan (often 25–35°C); city terraces are lively and day trips to higher elevations like Lake Sevan or Dilijan offer cooler relief.
September–November features pleasant temperatures, clear skies and beautiful fall foliage — a popular time for wine tours and photography.
December–February can be cold with occasional snow; city life continues but mountain roads and some highland destinations may be affected, while ski resorts are open in the higher elevations.
Yerevan at Night
Hiking in Yerevan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Armenia with multiple routes and alpine scenery; day trips or overnight climbs are possible depending on experience and season.
Lush forested trails, wooden bridges and small monasteries — great for moderate hikes and cooler summer escapes (a longer drive from Yerevan).
Short hikes around the basalt columns and river, with spectacular rock formations and nearby views of pagan-era Garni Temple.
Walks along the shoreline and up to Sevanavank monastery for lake vistas; accessible and family-friendly.
Ancient woodland with diverse flora and fauna; more remote and better visited with a guide for longer nature treks.
Airports
How to reach Yerevan by plane.
Main international airport serving Yerevan, about 12 km west of the city center; reachable by taxi (20–30 min) and public buses; major carriers and seasonal flights connect to Europe, Russia and the Middle East.
Located near Gyumri (~120–140 km northwest of Yerevan), serves some international and domestic flights; useful if visiting northern Armenia or connecting via low-cost carriers.
Several smaller airfields and heliports exist for specific services and charters but commercial options are limited; most travelers use Zvartnots for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of Yerevan’s population are ethnic Armenians, with a strong sense of national identity and cultural continuity.
A visible diaspora community and returning Armenians contribute to international connections, investment and cultural exchange.
Small minority groups include Russians, Yazidis and others, adding cultural variety especially in particular neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular spectator sport with local clubs and passionate fans; stadium matches draw enthusiastic crowds.
Traditional strength sports where Armenia has international success; widely respected and practiced.
Extremely popular as both pastime and competitive sport; chess clubs and schools are common across the country.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yerevan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (dolma, eggplant dishes, salads, cheese-based plates and khashlama without meat), but many traditional dishes include meat. Ask for 'metst chi' (without meat) or request vegetable versions; markets and bakeries provide reliable portable options.
Vegan choices are more limited but possible: fresh salads, grilled vegetables, beans and rice. Larger restaurants and cafes in Yerevan are increasingly accommodating — notify staff and look for modern eateries with clear menu notes.
Gluten-free options require diligence since lavash and bread are staples. Many restaurants can adapt dishes (grilled meats, salads), but cross-contamination can occur; carry snacks if you have a strict intolerance.