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 few remaining Islamic architectural monuments in the Armenian capital. Built in the 18th century during the Persian rule, this historic mosque represents a fascinating chapter of Yerevan's multicultural past and serves as a testament to the city's diverse religious heritage. The mosque's distinctive blue tilework and traditional Islamic architecture create a striking contrast against the predominantly Christian Orthodox landscape of modern Armenia.
Today, the Blue Mosque functions as both an active place of worship and a cultural center, housing a small museum and library. The complex includes beautiful gardens, traditional Persian architectural elements, and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the Islamic heritage that once flourished in this region. The mosque's peaceful courtyard and intricate decorative details make it not only a significant religious site but also an important cultural landmark that bridges different faiths and historical periods in Yerevan's rich tapestry.
Top Things to Do in Blue Mosque
Explore the Blue Mosque Complex
Visit the main prayer hall with its beautiful blue ceramic tiles and traditional Islamic architecture. The mosque features a peaceful courtyard, minaret, and intricate decorative elements that showcase Persian architectural influences from the 18th century.
Booking Tip: Entry is free, but dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the prayer hall. Best visited during daylight hours between 9 AM and 5 PM when natural light illuminates the tilework beautifully.
Visit the Islamic Museum
Discover artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits that tell the story of Islamic culture in Armenia. The small but informative museum provides context about the Muslim community that once thrived in Yerevan and the broader region.
Booking Tip: Museum visits are typically included with mosque entry and are free of charge. Allow 30-45 minutes for the museum, and consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical insights.
Stroll Through the Mosque Gardens
Enjoy the tranquil gardens surrounding the mosque, featuring traditional Islamic garden design with fountains, pathways, and peaceful seating areas. The gardens provide a serene escape from the bustling city and offer great photo opportunities.
Booking Tip: Gardens are accessible during mosque opening hours at no additional cost. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
Attend Cultural Events
The mosque occasionally hosts cultural events, lectures, and interfaith dialogue sessions that promote understanding between different religious communities. These events offer unique insights into contemporary religious life in Armenia.
Booking Tip: Check with the mosque administration or local cultural centers for event schedules. Most events are free but may require advance registration, especially for special lectures or cultural programs.
Explore the Surrounding Historic District
Walk through the historic neighborhood surrounding the Blue Mosque, discovering traditional Yerevan architecture, local cafes, and other cultural sites. The area offers glimpses into both old and modern Yerevan life.
Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free and best done on foot. Consider combining with other nearby attractions like the Vernissage Market or central Yerevan landmarks for a full day of sightseeing.
Getting There
The Blue Mosque is located in central Yerevan and is easily accessible by various means of transportation. From Zvartnots International Airport, take a taxi (approximately 20-30 minutes, 3,000-5,000 AMD) or use the airport shuttle bus to the city center. If arriving by train or bus, the mosque is within walking distance of the central railway station and main bus terminals. For those driving, limited parking is available in the surrounding streets, though public transportation is recommended due to narrow roads in the historic district.
Getting Around
Getting around the Blue Mosque area and central Yerevan is straightforward with multiple transportation options. The city's metro system has nearby stations, and buses and marshrutkas (shared minibuses) provide affordable local transport. Taxis are readily available through apps like GG Taxi or can be hailed on the street. Walking is often the best option for exploring the historic center, as many attractions are within a few blocks of each other. The mosque itself is easily walkable from Republic Square, the Opera House, and other major Yerevan landmarks.
Where to Stay
Republic Square Area
Northern Avenue District
Cascade Complex Vicinity
Opera House Quarter
Vernissage Market Area
Kond Historic Neighborhood
Food & Dining
The area around the Blue Mosque offers diverse dining options reflecting Yerevan's culinary scene. Traditional Armenian restaurants serve local specialties like khorovats (barbecue), dolma, and lavash bread, while modern cafes offer international cuisine and excellent Armenian coffee. The nearby Vernissage Market area features food stalls and local vendors selling fresh produce and traditional snacks. For a cultural dining experience, look for restaurants that serve both Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine, reflecting the multicultural heritage of the area. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying meals while observing local life.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Yerevan
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
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 outdoor sites. Summer months can be quite hot, making early morning or late afternoon visits more comfortable. Winter visits are possible but may be limited by weather conditions and shorter daylight hours. The mosque is particularly beautiful during the golden hour before sunset when the blue tiles catch the warm light. Avoid major Armenian religious holidays when the area might be crowded with local celebrations, unless you want to experience these cultural events.
Insider Tips
Visit during prayer times to respectfully observe the mosque's active religious function, but be mindful not to disturb worshippers
Combine your visit with the nearby Vernissage Market on weekends for a full cultural experience of crafts, art, and local life
Bring a scarf or modest clothing as the mosque maintains traditional dress codes, and photography may be restricted in certain areas during prayer times