Things to Do in Yerevan

Where ancient stones whisper tales of millennia past and the aroma of freshly ground coffee mingles with incense from centuries-old churches, Yerevan emerges as a city that exists beautifully between worlds. The 'Pink City' bathes in the warm glow of volcanic tuff stone, its buildings painted in hues that shift from dusty rose at dawn to deep amber at sunset. Here, Mount Ararat watches eternally over bustling markets where vendors sell pomegranates like ruby jewels, while modern galleries showcase contemporary Armenian art alongside traditional carpets. The rhythm of life moves to the gentle clatter of backgammon pieces in sidewalk cafés, where conversations flow as freely as the famous Armenian brandy. In Yerevan's tree-lined boulevards and hidden courtyards, every corner reveals layers of history – from ancient Urartian foundations to Soviet-era architecture to sleek modern developments. This is a city where hospitality isn't just a custom but a sacred tradition, where strangers become friends over shared meals, and where the resilient spirit of its people transforms every sunset into a celebration of survival and hope.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the efficient Yerevan Metro (100 AMD per ride) for major destinations, or hail yellow taxis through the GG or Yandex.Taxi apps. Marshrutkas (minibuses) cost 100-150 AMD but routes can be confusing for visitors. Walking is ideal in the compact city center.

Money: Armenian Dram (AMD) is the only accepted currency. Exchange money at banks or official exchange points for better rates than airports. Most restaurants and hotels accept cards, but carry cash for markets, taxis, and small vendors. ATMs are widely available downtown.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and long pants). Remove hats indoors and stay quiet during services. Armenians are incredibly hospitable – refusing offered food or drink multiple times is normal, but eventually accept graciously. Learn basic Armenian greetings like 'Barev' (hello).

Food Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in Yerevan. Try traditional dishes at local taverns like Dolmama or Sherep. Street food from established vendors is generally safe. Don't miss Armenian specialties: khorovats (BBQ), dolma, and lavash bread. Vegetarians should specify 'kensababutyan' (vegetarian).

When to Visit

Spring (April-May) offers the most pleasant weather with temperatures ranging 15-25°C, minimal rainfall (40-60mm monthly), and blooming apricot trees. Hotels cost 20-30% less than peak season. Summer (June-August) brings hot, dry weather (25-35°C, under 20mm rainfall) perfect for outdoor exploration but expect 40-50% higher accommodation prices and crowds. The Vardavar water festival occurs in July. Autumn (September-October) provides ideal conditions with mild temperatures (18-28°C), crystal-clear mountain views, and harvest season festivities. Wine festivals peak in October, with moderate pricing. Winter (November-March) sees cold weather (-2 to 8°C) and occasional snow (30-50mm precipitation monthly), but offers the lowest prices (30-40% below peak) and fewer tourists. The Armenian Christmas celebration on January 6th and New Year festivities make winter culturally rich. For budget travelers, visit November-March for significant savings. Photography enthusiasts should choose autumn for stunning light and clear Ararat views. Festival lovers will enjoy summer's outdoor events and October's harvest celebrations. First-time visitors benefit most from April-May or September-October when weather, prices, and crowds balance perfectly.