Things to Do in Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, Հայաստան

Yerevan, Armenia's vibrant capital and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, is home to the magnificent Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, the largest Armenian Apostolic church in the world. This pink tuff stone metropolis sits at 1,000 meters above sea level in the Ararat plain, offering stunning views of the biblical Mount Ararat on clear days. The city seamlessly blends ancient history with modern culture, featuring Soviet-era architecture alongside medieval churches, bustling markets, and contemporary art galleries. The cathedral itself, completed in 2001 to commemorate Armenia's 1,700th anniversary of Christianity, stands as a symbol of Armenian faith and resilience. Beyond this architectural marvel, Yerevan offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring ancient manuscripts at the Matenadaran to wandering through the colorful Vernissage market, all while enjoying the warmth of Armenian hospitality and the city's renowned café culture.

Top Things to Do in Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral

Armenian Church Architecture Tour

Explore Yerevan's stunning religious architecture including Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, the ancient Saint Sarkis Cathedral, and the blue-domed Saint Anna Church. These tours typically include visits to multiple churches with detailed explanations of Armenian Apostolic traditions, architectural styles, and historical significance.

Booking Tip: Book guided tours for $25-40 per person through local operators or hotels. Morning tours (9-11 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds. Look for guides who speak multiple languages and have religious history expertise.

Armenian Brandy and Wine Tasting

Visit the famous Ararat Brandy Factory or local wineries to sample Armenia's renowned spirits and wines made from indigenous grape varieties. These experiences often include cellar tours, production explanations, and tastings of aged brandies that have been enjoyed by world leaders.

Booking Tip: Reserve tastings in advance for $15-30 per person. Afternoon sessions (2-4 PM) are most popular. Choose operators that offer transportation, as tastings involve alcohol. Premium experiences with vintage brandies cost $50-80.

Traditional Armenian Cooking Classes

Learn to prepare authentic Armenian dishes like dolma, khorovats (barbecue), and lavash bread in hands-on cooking workshops. These classes typically take place in local homes or cooking schools, providing insight into Armenian culinary traditions and family recipes passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Book classes for $40-60 per person, including meal and recipes. Evening classes (5-8 PM) are most atmospheric. Look for small group experiences (6-8 people max) that include market visits and take-home recipe cards.

Erebuni Fortress and Archaeological Sites

Explore the ancient Urartian fortress of Erebuni, dating back to 782 BC, which gave Yerevan its name. The site includes excavated ruins, a museum with artifacts, and panoramic views of the city, offering insight into pre-Christian Armenian civilization.

Booking Tip: Entry costs $3-5 per person, with guided tours available for an additional $10-15. Visit in late afternoon (4-6 PM) for golden hour photography. Combine with nearby Shengavit archaeological site for a full historical experience.

Republic Square and Dancing Fountains

Experience Yerevan's heart at Republic Square, surrounded by pink tuff buildings housing museums and government offices. The famous singing fountains perform nightly shows with music and colored lights, creating a magical atmosphere that draws locals and tourists alike.

Booking Tip: Free to visit, but arrive by 8 PM for fountain shows (May-October). Best viewing spots fill up quickly on weekends. Nearby cafés offer reserved seating for $10-20 per person including drinks. Combine with National Gallery visits during the day.

Getting There

Zvartnots International Airport, located 12 kilometers west of Yerevan, serves as Armenia's main gateway with direct flights from major European cities, Middle Eastern hubs, and select North American destinations. From the airport, taxis cost approximately $8-12 to the city center, while the Airport Shuttle bus service operates regularly for $1-2 per person. Overland travel is possible from Georgia via the scenic route through Dilijan, taking 4-5 hours by bus or marshrutka (shared minivan) from Tbilisi for around $10-15.

Getting Around

Yerevan's compact city center is highly walkable, with most attractions within 2-3 kilometers of Republic Square. The efficient metro system operates on a single line connecting key areas for just $0.20 per ride, though many tourists prefer walking to admire the pink tuff architecture. Taxis are abundant and affordable ($2-5 for most city trips), while ride-sharing apps like GG and Yandex offer convenient alternatives. For day trips to nearby attractions like Garni Temple or Geghard Monastery, marshrutkas (shared minivans) depart from various points in the city for $1-3, or private drivers can be hired for $30-50 per day.

Where to Stay

Republic Square Area

Northern Avenue District

Cascade Complex Vicinity

Opera House Quarter

Kentron District

Kond Historic Neighborhood

Food & Dining

Yerevan's culinary scene beautifully balances traditional Armenian cuisine with modern interpretations and international influences. The city is famous for its khorovats (Armenian barbecue), fresh lavash bread, and an abundance of herbs and vegetables. Traditional restaurants like Dolmama and Sherep offer authentic experiences, while modern establishments such as Dargett Craft Beer Restaurant blend local ingredients with contemporary techniques. Don't miss the outdoor markets for fresh produce and local specialties, and be sure to try Armenian coffee culture at the numerous sidewalk cafés that line Northern Avenue and Republic Square.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Yerevan and Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral is during late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild (15-25°C) and rainfall is minimal. Summer months (June-August) can be quite hot with temperatures reaching 35°C, but this is also when the city is most vibrant with outdoor festivals and the famous dancing fountains operating nightly. Winter visits (December-February) offer a different charm with possible snow and fewer crowds, though temperatures can drop below freezing and some outdoor attractions may have limited hours.

Insider Tips

Visit Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral early morning (7-9 AM) for peaceful prayer time and the best natural lighting for photography without crowds

Many museums and churches offer free entry on the first Saturday of each month, making it an excellent time for budget-conscious cultural exploration

Learn a few basic Armenian phrases like 'barev' (hello) and 'shnorhakalutyun' (thank you) as locals greatly appreciate visitors who make the effort to speak their ancient language

Things to Do in Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral