Yerevan

What are the most recommended things to do in Yerevan?

Visit Republic Square to see the iconic fountains and government buildings.
Explore the History Museum of Armenia and the National Gallery for cultural insights.
Walk along Northern Avenue for shopping, dining, and modern architecture.
Climb to the Cascade Complex for panoramic city views and outdoor sculptures.
Visit Vernissage Market for local crafts, souvenirs, and artwork.
Enjoy Armenian cuisine at local cafes and restaurants.
Attend performances at the Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Introducing Yerevan

"Yerevan," meaning "State of the Eri Tribe," formerly known as "Yerevan," is the capital and economic and cultural center of Armenia. One of the world's most famous ancient cities, it lies on the banks of the Razdan River, just over 20 kilometers south of the Turkish border. Nestled on a hillside, it enjoys stunning scenery, with an altitude of 850 to 1,300 meters. It covers an area of approximately 90 square kilometers and has a population of 1.3 million. The city is divided into seven districts, most of which lie on the left bank of the Razdan River. The city center serves as the seat of the Armenian government. The surrounding area is fertile agricultural land, a distribution center for fruits and vegetables. One of the ancient cities of Transcaucasia, it was founded as a fortress in 782 BC and first appears in Armenian historical records in the early 6th century. By 1440, it had become the administrative, commercial, and craft center of Eastern Armenia. It was annexed by Russia in 1828 and has been the capital of Armenia since 1936.

Climate and best time to travel

The weather in Yerevan is quite bad, with cold winters and hot summers, scorching summers and rain and snow in winter.

The temperature varies greatly throughout the year, and the climate is more comfortable in September.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Echmiadzin

Etchmiadzin: An ancient capital of Armenia, west of Yerevan. Found in historical records since the 2nd century BC. Known as Vagharshapat before 1945, it was once the seat of the Armenian Archbishop. It boasts the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, built in 303 by Enlig Tana, the first Armenian Archbishop, and the Lipsime Church, built in 618. The latter, with its small dome, is an outstanding example of early Armenian architecture.

Lake Sevan

Lake Sevan is the largest alpine lake in the Caucasus. Located 60 kilometers from Yerevan, it is a popular tourist destination. The lake's name is derived from the Armenian word for "Black Monastery," referring to an ancient monastery built of black materials in the 4th century on an island in the northwest corner of the lake. It is also known as Lake Gokchay, a Turkic name meaning "blue water."

Zvartnots Cathedral

Zvartnots Church: An ancient Armenian church from the early Middle Ages, also known as the Church of the Perpetual Miracle. Located near Echmiadzin, it was built between 641 and 661 AD, of which only ruins remain. Originally a three-story, domed structure, the interior housed a four-lobed nave with a cloister. The facade was decorated with false arches, carvings, and reliefs, while the interior was adorned with mosaics and murals. Excavations between 1901 and 1907 revealed the base, colonnade, foundation, capitals, and numerous architectural fragments. Figures depicting figures holding construction tools on the arches and large reliefs are believed to be imitations of the architect and chief architect, Avanes. A sundial carved into a one-meter-long slab is particularly striking. The entire church is constructed of colored tuff. Later, based on excavations and his own ideas, Te Toramanian rebuilt it into a three-story, cross-shaped church with a cloistered interior. A museum now stands adjacent to the church, displaying fragments of the ruins.

Geghard Monastery

Geghard Monastery: Located in a valley 40 kilometers southeast of Yerevan, the capital of the Republic of Armenia, nestled against a mountainside, it exudes a majestic presence. It is said to have been founded in the 4th century, but the current structure dates back to the 13th century. Also known as Erivank, which means "Church of the Rocks" in Armenian, the monastery is named after the fact that most of the buildings are carved into the rock. The monastery comprises a central church, two rock-cut churches, and a mausoleum for the princes. The central church was built in 1215 and remains intact. One rock-cut church was built in the 1240s-1250s, northwest of the central church's porch; another rock-cut church was built in 1283. The mausoleum is located diagonally above the first rock-cut church and features an outer gallery measuring 12 meters square. Four rows of arches intersect in a "well" shape. Four stout stone pillars form the intersections, and the central dome is crowned by a magnificent skylight. The mausoleum and its outer gallery were both built in 1288.

Garni

Garni: An ancient Armenian fortress and settlement, located 27 kilometers east of Yerevan. Founded around the 2nd century BC on the site of a Chalcolithic settlement, it contains the remains of a protective wall and a 1st-century AD Greco-Roman polytheistic temple in the Ionic style. The remains of a large estate dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries AD include halls, residences, and bathhouses.

Most Popular FAQs for Yerevan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, founded in 782 BC. It is a cultural, political, and economic center of Armenia, known for its Soviet-era architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yerevan is in the western part of Armenia. You can get around by metro, buses, taxis, or walking in central areas. Zvartnots International Airport connects Yerevan to international destinations, and taxis or airport shuttles reach the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Best time to visit: May to September for warm weather and outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many museums and galleries charge small entrance fees (around $2–$5 USD).
Tickets are usually purchased on-site; some larger museums offer online booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended only for special exhibitions or performances at theaters. Typically, booking a few days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 days to explore main landmarks, museums, markets, and nearby attractions comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Republic Square and its fountains
Cascade Complex and Cafesjian Museum of Art
Northern Avenue shopping district
Vernissage Market
History Museum of Armenia and National Gallery
Opera and Ballet Theatre

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, Russian, and Armenian.
Audio guides are offered in major museums and attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Cascade Complex for panoramic city views
Republic Square at night with illuminated fountains
Blue Mosque and traditional architecture areas
Sunset views over Mount Ararat

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Republic Square → Northern Avenue → History Museum → Cascade Complex → Vernissage Market → Opera Theatre.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Republic Square fountains offer night light shows.
Evening walking tours of the city and Cascade Complex are available.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Central areas can be crowded on weekends and during festivals. Weekdays and mornings are less busy.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets and restrooms in museums and malls
Cafes, restaurants, and water fountains
Shopping centers and souvenir shops
Benches and public parks for rest

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many central attractions are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for families with children
Some historic areas may have uneven surfaces

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Armenian Dram) is widely used.
Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept cards and mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Armenian cuisine: Tavern Yerevan, Dolmama
Cafes and dessert spots: Cafe Central, Artbridge Bookstore Cafe
International cuisine: Italian, French, and Asian restaurants along Northern Avenue