Things to Do in Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque, Հայաստան - Complete Travel Guide
The Blue Mosque (Gök Mosque) in Yerevan, Armenia, stands as one of the most significant Islamic architectural monuments in the South Caucasus and the only active mosque in Armenia today. Built in the 1760s during the Persian rule, this beautiful structure showcases traditional Persian-Islamic architecture with its distinctive blue tilework, elegant minaret, and peaceful courtyard. The mosque has survived centuries of political changes and remains an important symbol of Armenia's multicultural heritage and religious tolerance.
Located in the heart of Yerevan's old town, the Blue Mosque serves not only as an active place of worship but also as a cultural center that houses a library, museum, and educational facilities. The mosque's serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in architecture, history, and interfaith dialogue. Its proximity to other major attractions in central Yerevan makes it an ideal stop during a walking tour of the capital.
Top Things to Do in Blue Mosque
Explore the Blue Mosque Architecture
Marvel at the mosque's stunning Persian-Islamic architecture, featuring intricate blue tilework, geometric patterns, and a graceful minaret. The peaceful courtyard with its fountain and garden provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets.
Booking Tip: Entry is free and the mosque is open daily except during prayer times. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting for photography. Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Visit the Adjacent Museum and Library
Discover the rich Islamic heritage of the region through the small museum housed within the mosque complex. The library contains valuable manuscripts and books on Islamic culture, history, and Persian literature.
Booking Tip: Museum visits are typically free but may require advance arrangement. Contact the mosque administration for guided tours which are sometimes available in multiple languages. Best visited on weekdays when staff are more readily available.
Attend Cultural Events and Exhibitions
The Blue Mosque regularly hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and educational programs that promote intercultural dialogue. These events often feature Persian poetry readings, traditional music performances, and art displays.
Booking Tip: Check the mosque's social media or contact them directly for event schedules. Most cultural events are free but may require registration. Events are typically held in the evening and attract both locals and international visitors.
Photography and Garden Meditation
The mosque's beautiful gardens and architectural details provide excellent photography opportunities. The peaceful courtyard with its traditional Persian garden design offers a perfect spot for quiet reflection and meditation.
Booking Tip: Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard and gardens but ask permission before photographing inside the prayer hall. Early morning or golden hour provides the best natural lighting. Be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography.
Combine with Old Yerevan Walking Tour
The Blue Mosque is perfectly positioned for inclusion in a comprehensive walking tour of Yerevan's historic center. Nearby attractions include the Katoghike Church, Central Market, and various Soviet-era monuments.
Booking Tip: Allow 1-2 hours for the mosque visit and combine with other nearby attractions for a full day of sightseeing. Many local tour guides include the mosque in their old city tours for $20-40 per person. Self-guided tours are also very feasible.
Getting There
Yerevan's Blue Mosque is easily accessible from Zvartnots International Airport, located about 12 kilometers west of the city center. Taxis from the airport cost around $10-15 and take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses and marshrutkas (shared minibuses) also connect the airport to downtown Yerevan for under $1. The mosque is located on Mesrop Mashtots Avenue in the city center, within walking distance of Republic Square and other major landmarks. If arriving by train from Georgia, the railway station is about 3 kilometers from the mosque and easily reached by taxi or public transport.
Getting Around
The Blue Mosque is located in central Yerevan, making it easily accessible on foot from most downtown attractions. Yerevan has an efficient metro system with stations near the mosque, and buses and marshrutkas provide comprehensive coverage throughout the city for very affordable fares (under $0.50). Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, with ride-sharing apps like GG and Yandex Taxi widely used. The city center is very walkable, and many visitors choose to explore the area around the mosque on foot, as most major attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other.
Where to Stay
Republic Square Area
Northern Avenue District
Cascade Complex Vicinity
Opera House Quarter
Kond Historic Neighborhood
Mashtots Avenue
Food & Dining
Yerevan's dining scene around the Blue Mosque area offers an excellent mix of traditional Armenian cuisine and international options. The nearby Saryan Street and Northern Avenue feature numerous restaurants serving local specialties like khorovats (Armenian barbecue), dolma, and lavash bread. Traditional Armenian restaurants often provide live folk music in the evenings. The area also has several Persian and Middle Eastern restaurants that complement a visit to the mosque, offering dishes like kebabs, pilaf, and baklava. For budget-friendly options, try the local bakeries and street food vendors around the Central Market, while upscale dining can be found along Northern Avenue and near Republic Square.
When to Visit
The best time to visit the Blue Mosque is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when Yerevan enjoys mild temperatures and clear skies perfect for exploring and photography. Summer months can be quite hot, making early morning or late afternoon visits more comfortable. Winter visits are possible but expect cold temperatures and occasional snow. The mosque is particularly beautiful during the golden hour before sunset when the blue tiles catch the warm light. Avoid visiting during the five daily prayer times if you want to explore the interior, and note that Friday prayers draw larger crowds.
Insider Tips
Visit during non-prayer times and dress conservatively - women should cover their heads and arms, and everyone should remove shoes before entering the prayer hall
The mosque's Persian garden is at its most beautiful in spring when flowers are blooming - perfect for photography and peaceful contemplation
Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Armenian Apostolic churches to experience Yerevan's remarkable religious diversity within just a few city blocks