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History Museum of Armenia, Հայաստան - Things to Do in History Museum of Armenia

Things to Do in History Museum of Armenia

History Museum of Armenia, Հայաստան - Complete Travel Guide

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back to 782 BC. This vibrant metropolis seamlessly blends ancient history with modern culture, featuring distinctive pink tuff stone architecture that gives the city its warm, rosy glow. The History Museum of Armenia stands as the country's premier cultural institution, housing an extensive collection that spans millennia of Armenian civilization, from prehistoric artifacts to medieval manuscripts and modern art. The museum serves as the perfect introduction to Armenia's rich heritage, offering visitors insight into the nation's complex history, including its role as the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion. Located in the heart of Yerevan on Republic Square, the museum is surrounded by other significant cultural sites, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city's historical treasures.

Top Things to Do in History Museum of Armenia

Explore the History Museum of Armenia

Discover Armenia's fascinating past through an impressive collection of over 400,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's highlights include ancient Urartian artifacts, medieval illuminated manuscripts, and ethnographic displays showcasing traditional Armenian culture and crafts.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 1,000 AMD (approximately $2.50). Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and consider hiring a guide for 5,000-8,000 AMD to fully appreciate the historical context of the exhibits.

Visit Erebuni Fortress Archaeological Site

Explore the ruins of Erebuni, the ancient fortress that gave birth to modern Yerevan in 782 BC. The site features well-preserved Urartian architecture, cuneiform inscriptions, and a small museum displaying artifacts discovered during excavations.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is 500 AMD. Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. The site is about 20 minutes from central Yerevan by taxi (1,500-2,000 AMD).

Tour Matenadaran Manuscript Repository

Marvel at one of the world's largest collections of ancient manuscripts at this UNESCO Memory of the World site. The repository houses over 17,000 manuscripts in Armenian and other languages, including beautifully illuminated medieval texts and rare historical documents.

Booking Tip: Admission is 1,500 AMD with guided tours available for an additional 2,000 AMD. Book tours in advance during peak season (May-October) and allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit.

Experience Traditional Armenian Crafts Workshop

Participate in hands-on workshops learning traditional Armenian crafts such as carpet weaving, pottery, or khachkar (cross-stone) carving. These cultural experiences provide insight into centuries-old techniques still practiced by local artisans.

Booking Tip: Workshop prices range from 8,000-15,000 AMD per person depending on the craft and duration. Book through cultural centers or hotels, and look for workshops that include materials and light refreshments.

Discover Vernissage Market and Soviet-era Artifacts

Browse through an extensive open-air market featuring Soviet-era memorabilia, traditional Armenian handicrafts, vintage items, and local artwork. This weekend market offers a unique glimpse into both recent history and contemporary Armenian culture.

Booking Tip: Free to browse, but bring cash for purchases. Best visited on Saturday and Sunday mornings when the selection is largest. Bargaining is expected, so start at about 60% of the asking price.

Getting There

Yerevan is accessible via Zvartnots International Airport, located 12 kilometers west of the city center. Direct flights connect Yerevan to major European cities, Moscow, and Middle Eastern destinations. From the airport, taxis cost around 3,000-4,000 AMD to the city center, while bus #201 offers a budget option for 300 AMD. Overland travelers can reach Yerevan by bus from Georgia (Tbilisi) or Iran, though the borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan remain closed.

Getting Around

Yerevan's city center is highly walkable, with most historical sites within easy walking distance of each other. The metro system, a Soviet-era engineering marvel, connects key areas for just 100 AMD per ride. Taxis are abundant and affordable, with rides within the city typically costing 1,000-3,000 AMD. For day trips to nearby attractions like Garni or Geghard, consider hiring a taxi for the day (15,000-25,000 AMD) or joining organized tours.

Where to Stay

Republic Square area
Northern Avenue district
Cascade neighborhood
Kond historic quarter
Kentron central district
Arabkir residential area

Food & Dining

Yerevan's dining scene celebrates traditional Armenian cuisine alongside international options. Sample national dishes like khorovats (barbecue), dolma, and lavash bread at traditional restaurants in the city center. The area around Republic Square and Northern Avenue offers the highest concentration of restaurants, from casual taverns serving hearty portions for 3,000-5,000 AMD to upscale establishments featuring modern Armenian cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties like harissa, ghapama, and Armenian brandy, with many restaurants offering tasting menus that showcase regional flavors.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Yerevan

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Mozzarella

4.6 /5
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Limone

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4.6 /5
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InTempo

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Black Angus Signature

4.9 /5
(443 reviews)

L'ÉTÉ Cafe & Veranda

4.7 /5
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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Yerevan is during late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be quite hot with temperatures reaching 35°C, though the dry climate makes it bearable. Winter visits (December-February) offer fewer crowds and a chance to experience the city's cozy indoor culture, though some outdoor sites may have limited hours. The museum itself is climate-controlled and enjoyable year-round.

Insider Tips

Many museums offer combined tickets that provide significant savings when visiting multiple sites - ask about the Yerevan Museum Pass at your first stop.
Learn a few Armenian phrases like 'shnorhakalutyun' (thank you) as locals greatly appreciate visitors who make the effort to speak Armenian.
The pink volcanic tuff stone used in Yerevan's architecture creates beautiful photo opportunities during golden hour, particularly around Republic Square and the Cascade complex.

Explore Activities in History Museum of Armenia