Yerevan, Armenia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Downtown Yerevan

  • Morning: Arrive at Zvartnots International Airport. Take a taxi or shuttle bus (around AMD 2,000 / $4 USD) to your hotel.
  • Visit the Yerevan Opera House, an impressive example of Soviet architecture. (9am-6pm, free admission)
  • Walk around the adjacent Republic Square and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian cuisine at Lavash Restaurant on Baghramyan Street (around AMD 5,000 / $10 USD per meal).
  • Visit the nearby National Gallery of Armenia, showcasing a diverse collection of Armenian art. (9am-6pm, free admission)
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Yerevan Grill, offering traditional and modern Armenian dishes (around AMD 8,000 / $16 USD per meal).

Day 2: Historical Landmarks

  • Visit the Erebuni Fortress, a ancient temple dating back to the 3rd century BC. (9am-6pm, around AMD 1,500 / $3 USD)
  • Explore the Mother Armenia Monument, a symbol of the country’s strength and independence. (free admission)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian street food at Shirak Restaurant on Marshal Baghramyan Street (around AMD 4,000 / $8 USD per meal).
  • Visit the Museum of History of Yerevan, showcasing the city’s history from ancient times to the present. (9am-6pm, around AMD 2,500 / $5 USD)
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Khorovats House Restaurant, serving traditional Armenian barbecue and kebabs (around AMD 10,000 / $20 USD per meal).

Day 3: Nature and Culture

  • Visit the Yerevan Botanical Garden, featuring a variety of plants and flowers. (9am-6pm, free admission)
  • Explore the Cascade Complex, a series of three connected staircases with stunning city views. (free admission)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian cuisine at Nvard Restaurant on Northern Avenue (around AMD 7,000 / $14 USD per meal).
  • Visit the National Museum of Nature of Armenia, showcasing the country’s unique natural history. (9am-6pm, around AMD 2,500 / $5 USD)
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Piano Bar Restaurant, offering live music and a variety of Armenian dishes (around AMD 12,000 / $24 USD per meal).

Day 4: Day Trip to Garni and Geghard

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Garni Gorge and Geghard Monastery (around AMD 6,000 / $12 USD for transportation).
  • Visit the ancient Garni Temple, an impressive pagan temple dedicated to the god Mithra. (9am-6pm, around AMD 1,500 / $3 USD)
  • Explore the stunning Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique cave architecture. (9am-6pm, around AMD 2,000 / $4 USD)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian cuisine at Garni Restaurant near the monastery (around AMD 8,000 / $16 USD per meal).
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Yerevan Steakhouse, serving high-quality steaks and modern Armenian dishes (around AMD 15,000 / $30 USD per meal).

Day 5: Markets and Local Life

  • Visit the bustling Vernissage Flea Market, featuring local crafts and souvenirs. (free admission)
  • Explore the adjacent Ararat Brandy Factory Museum, showcasing the history of Armenian brandy production. (9am-6pm, around AMD 1,500 / $3 USD)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian street food at Vernissage Food Court on the market grounds (around AMD 4,000 / $8 USD per meal).
  • Visit the nearby Lovers’ Park, a charming green oasis in the heart of the city. (free admission)
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Yerevan Wine House, offering a variety of Armenian wines and traditional dishes (around AMD 12,000 / $24 USD per meal).

Day 6: Last Day in Yerevan

  • Visit the Blue Mosque, one of the few remaining mosques in Armenia. (9am-6pm, around AMD 1,500 / $3 USD)
  • Explore the adjacent Armenian Genocide Museum, showcasing the country’s history and suffering during World War I. (9am-6pm, free admission)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Armenian cuisine at Blue Mosque Restaurant near the mosque (around AMD 7,000 / $14 USD per meal).
  • Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local neighborhood.
  • Farewell dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at your favorite restaurant in Yerevan.

Where to Stay

Yerevan has a wide range of hotels and hostels catering to different budgets. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Shengavit: A 4-star hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent service (around AMD 25,000 / $50 USD per night).
  • Hostel Yerevan: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms (around AMD 5,000 / $10 USD per night).

Getting Around

Yerevan is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance. However, the city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trolleys.

  • Trolleybus: A convenient way to get around the city (around AMD 100 / $0.20 USD per ride).
  • Bus: An affordable option for longer journeys (around AMD 150 / $0.30 USD per ride).

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Armenian is the official language, but many locals speak Russian or English.
  • Currency: The Armenian dram (AMD) is the local currency, although US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Yerevan has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Safety: Yerevan is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Recommendations

  • Try traditional Armenian cuisine, such as dolma, kebabs, and lavash bread.
  • Visit the nearby Lake Sevan, a beautiful lake with stunning views (around AMD 2,000 / $4 USD for transportation).
  • Explore the surrounding countryside, featuring rolling hills, forests, and ancient monuments.

Enjoy your trip to Yerevan!