Ruins of the Zvartnos temple in Yerevan with Mt Ararat in the background

Things to do in  Yerevan

Armenia’s beating heart

Some historians trace the history of Armenia back to the Bronze Age. Visitors would be forgiven for picturing an equally historic Armenian capital. But, no, Yerevan is a city with a distinctly 20th-century feel. Charming and atmospheric, it’s a difficult capital to rush through. The USSR timewarp, filled with boutique-lined streets, is known for Soviet-era architectural wonders like Victory Park, the Armenian National Opera building, the Cascade Complex, ornate Orthodox churches, and a laid-back café culture. Be warned: You may plan on passing through but end up staying for weeks.

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Top 5 attractions in Yerevan

#1

Yerevan Cascade

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Visitors to Yerevan will find unencumbered views of both the city’s center and Mount Ararat from the steps of this iconic structure, which was completed in 1980. The complex is home to multiple staircases, escalators, fountains and gardens that make it one of Yerevan’s most unique landmarks. It is also home to the Cafesjian Museum of Art and a gathering place for senior citizens, families and locals looking to unwind. Travelers can climb the stairs to check out sweeping landscapes, relax in one of the picturesque gardens, spend some time combing through the galleries of the impressive art museum or wander around the outdoor sculptures that decorate this destination.More
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#2

Republic Square

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Republic Square, located in the heart of Yerevan, is a popular meeting spot for first dates and an even more popular destination for couples that are tying the knot. The iconic seven fountains, located in the center of the square, is part of an age-old Armenian wedding tradition that includes circling the square three times for love and good luck. Travelers who happen upon this classic square on busy weekends will likely see well-dressed couples taking part in this right of passage.The park was designed by Alexander Tamayan and includes a sprawling mosaic rock “carpet”. Like other major cities, this square has become a gathering spot for locals and travelers who want to unwind outside as the sun sets or the day begins.More
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#3

Tsaghkadzor Ropeway

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Located on the slopes of Mt. Teghenis in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, this armchair ropeway leads you to a summit overlooking the rolling hills of northern Armenia. Standing at more than 2,800 meters (9,200 feet), on clear days the summit gives you a glimpse of Mt. Ararat, the snow-capped mountain that’s the symbol of Armenia.More
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#4

Matenadaran (Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts)

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This world-class museum is home to one of the largest—and most impressive—collections of ancient manuscripts on earth. They cover a wide-range of topics, including history, medicine, literature and philosophy.In addition to a museum, where travelers can learn about the history of the Armenian alphabet, examine parchments and copies of the first printed books, Matenadaran is home to one of the most important scientific research centers in the country.More
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#5

Armenian Genocide Museum (Tsitsernakaberd)

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This expansive complex, which was completed I 1967, was built to honor the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, this hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.Upon entering Tsisernakaberd, visitors are confronted with a massive stone engraved with the names of cities across Armenia and the number of people who were killed by the Turks in each one. It proves a somber reminder of the nation’s loss and ushers travelers into the three buildings the complex holds: the Sanctuary of Eternity, Memorial Wall and Memorial Column. Visitors say this museum and landmark is a stark but beautiful reminder of the nation’s history and worthy of checking out.More
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Top activities in Yerevan

Private 7-8-hour Khor Virap, Garni temple & Geghard monastery trip from Yerevan

Private 7-8-hour Khor Virap, Garni temple & Geghard monastery trip from Yerevan

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Transfer from Yerevan to Tbilisi with tours

Transfer from Yerevan to Tbilisi with tours

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Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Tatev monasteries (wayback on Ropeway)

Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Tatev monasteries (wayback on Ropeway)

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Khor Virap Monastery, Noravank Monastery, Areni, Jermuk

Khor Virap Monastery, Noravank Monastery, Areni, Jermuk

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Group: Tatev Monastery, Shaki waterfall and Winery

Group: Tatev Monastery, Shaki waterfall and Winery

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Group Tour: Khor Virap, Noravank, Hin Areni wine tour & tasting, Birds-Cave

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Cultural Walking Tour in Yerevan

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Private 7-8 hour Trip to Garni - Geghard - Lake Sevan - Sevanavank from Yerevan

Private 7-8 hour Trip to Garni - Geghard - Lake Sevan - Sevanavank from Yerevan

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Private Half-Day Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery Tour from Yerevan

Private Half-Day Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery Tour from Yerevan

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Group Tour: Garni pagan temple, Geghard monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank

Group Tour: Garni pagan temple, Geghard monastery, Lake Sevan, Sevanavank

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Retro KGB Tour: A Volga 21 Adventure in Yerevan's Soviet Past with photography
Special Offer

Retro KGB Tour: A Volga 21 Adventure in Yerevan's Soviet Past with photography

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Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)

Group Tour: Lake Sevan (Sevanavank), Dilijan (Goshavank, Haghartsin)

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Private Half-day Echmiadzin Cathedral, Hripsime & Zvartnots Temple from Yerevan

Private Half-day Echmiadzin Cathedral, Hripsime & Zvartnots Temple from Yerevan

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Yerevan city tour with drinks in a classic car with photography
Special Offer

Yerevan city tour with drinks in a classic car with photography

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Group Tour: Echmiadzin (Mother Cathedral & churches, Treasury), Zvartnots Temple

Group Tour: Echmiadzin (Mother Cathedral & churches, Treasury), Zvartnots Temple

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Symphony of Stones, Garni, Geghard, photo stop at Charents arch

Symphony of Stones, Garni, Geghard, photo stop at Charents arch

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Private Tour: Tsaghkadzor, Sevan lake,Sevanavank, Dilijan, Haghartsin monastery

Private Tour: Tsaghkadzor, Sevan lake,Sevanavank, Dilijan, Haghartsin monastery

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Group tour: Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery and Master Class

Group tour: Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery and Master Class

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Group Tour: Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway), Lake Sevan, Trout barbecue treat

Group Tour: Tsaghkadzor (Kecharis, Ropeway), Lake Sevan, Trout barbecue treat

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Balloon ride Skyball

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All about Yerevan

When to visit

Summer and early fall, when the days range from warm to mild, are the most popular times for visiting Yerevan. The city buzzes with cultural festivals like Yerevan Beer Fest at the end of summer and Utest Fest, which celebrates traditional Armenian cuisine each June. That said, there’s no real wrong time to come: Even the chilly, sometimes snow-covered winter comes with ice-skating around the capital’s Swan Lake.

Getting around

Yerevan is laid out in a grid pattern of clean, well-maintained streets, making it ideal for walking. For longer distances within the city, taxis or ridesharing apps like GG Taxi are affordable and easy to use, even for those who don’t speak Armenian or Russian, a common second language. And don’t disregard the sleek Yerevan Metro: It has only a single line, making it almost impossible to get turned around.

Traveler tips

Make time for a stroll through Yerevan’s bustling marketplaces. Indispensable stops on any Yerevan itinerary include Vernissage Market, a large open-air flea market behind the Republic Square metro station, and Gumi Shuka (Gum Market), a traditional indoor bazaar with fresh produce, nuts, snacks, and wine. Both stops work if you need to pick up a souvenir or simply want to go out people-watching.

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People Also Ask

How many days are enough in Yerevan?

Plan on at least two days—or better, three, or four—to explore the capital. It may not be love at first sight, but give the city time to shine on you. That said, many people land in Yerevan and rush off to other destinations within Armenia.

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Which is better: Yerevan or Tbilisi?

Comparing the two is impossible. Tbilisi is denser and has a bigger, better preserved Old City, which to some makes it more attractive, but it’s also more touristy. If off-the-beaten-track vibes are more your thing, then Yerevan is better, even if the Armenian capital might look unassuming at first glance.

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Is Yerevan an expensive city?

No. While perceptions of travel budgets vary wildly, Yerevan tends to be significantly cheaper than your average European capital, for example, Rome or even Athens. Whether grabbing a meal or coffee, or hitting a pub or nightclub, visitors are likely to be surprised at how affordable it is.

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What should I see in Yerevan?

The Cascade Complex, a massive monument in the form of a staircase, is a popular congregation point for locals and a must-see for tourists. Climb the 572 stairs to reach Victory Park, home of the city’s Mother Armenia statue. The Mantenadaran holds medieval-era Armenian illuminated manuscripts.

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What is the dress code in Yerevan?

If you’re a woman who plans on visiting churches or monasteries, bring a shawl to cover your hair and shoulders. Men and women shouldn’t show their knees in religious buildings. There’s no real dress code for the city, other than to look your best. Yerevan is a very fashion-forward capital.

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What is a traditional Armenian food I can find in Yerevan?

The food is reason enough to book it to Yerevan. Harissa, a porridge-like stew, is one of Armenia's most traditional dishes. Grab some lavash, a traditional flatbread, stuffed grape leaves, Armenian manti, or stuffed dumplings, and * khorovats,* slow-marinated Armenian barbecue. Wash it down with Armenian brandy, produced locally in Yerevan.

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