Armenia’s capital isn’t shy about showing off its personality. Known as the “pink city” thanks to the rosy hue of its tuff-stone buildings, Yerevan balances ancient history with an urban energy that feels surprisingly modern. Founded in 782 BC (yep, older than Rome), it’s a city that has seen empires rise and fall but still greets you with open-air cafés, jazz bars, and locals who insist you try just one more shot of brandy. If you’re looking for a destination that’s historic, soulful, and effortlessly cool, Yerevan delivers.

Sights

• Republic Square - The beating heart of Yerevan, surrounded by Soviet-era architecture with pink stone façades. The musical fountains light up every evening—imagine a water show with extra Armenian drama.
• Cafesjian Center for the Arts & Cascade Complex - A massive stairway-slash-art complex filled with fountains, sculptures, and modern art installations. Climb to the top (or cheat with the escalator inside) for sweeping views of Mount Ararat.
• Matenadaran - A treasure trove of ancient manuscripts, some dating back to the 5th century. The building itself is monumental, but inside you’ll find illuminated gospels, medical texts, and maps that show just how far Armenian scholarship traveled.
• Tsitsernakaberd (Armenian Genocide Memorial & Museum) - ️A powerful, solemn site dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The museum is moving and informative, while the eternal flame at the center is a place of quiet reflection.
• Vernissage Market - A sprawling open-air market selling everything from carpets and chess sets to Soviet memorabilia and hand-carved duduks (Armenian flutes). Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a cultural feast for the eyes.
• Erebuni Fortress - The ruins of a citadel built in 782 BC, which makes Yerevan older than many capitals you’ve visited. The small museum nearby explains the Urartian kingdom and the fortress’s significance.
• Blue Mosque - Yerevan’s only active mosque, restored with help from Iran, features intricate tilework and serene gardens—a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
• Ararat Brandy Factory - A guided tour here isn’t just about sipping world-class Armenian cognac (though yes, you’ll do that). You’ll also learn how Winston Churchill once developed a taste for it at Yalta.
• History Museum of Armenia - Right on Republic Square, this museum traces Armenia’s story from prehistoric times through medieval kingdoms. The Bronze Age artifacts are particularly impressive.
• Lovers’ Park - A beautifully landscaped park perfect for a stroll, with fountains, winding paths, and even outdoor film screenings in summer. Despite the name, it’s family-friendly—though couples definitely linger.

Good to Know

• Language 🗣️ – Armenian is the official language, but many people also speak Russian; English is growing, especially among younger folks.
• Currency 💵 – The Armenian dram (AMD). ATMs are common, but bring some cash for markets.
• Safety 🚶 – Yerevan is generally safe, even at night. Petty crime is rare, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like Vernissage.
• Taxis 🚕 – Use apps like GG or Yandex Taxi—they’re cheaper and easier than haggling on the street.
• Dress modestly near churches ⛪ – Covering shoulders and knees is appreciated when visiting religious sites.

Getting There

• By Air ✈️ – Zvartnots International Airport is just 20 minutes from downtown, with connections across Europe, the Middle East, and Russia.
• From the Airport 🚌 – Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest. There’s also a minibus (#201) that runs into the city center if you’re on a budget.
• By Land 🚌 – Buses and shared taxis connect Yerevan with Tbilisi (Georgia) and Iranian cities like Tabriz and Tehran.

Best Time to Travel

• Spring (April–June) 🌸 – The city blooms, the weather is mild, and Mount Ararat views are crystal clear.
• Autumn (September–October) 🍇 – Golden leaves, harvest season, and perfect temperatures.
• Summer (July–August) ☀️ – Hot (often over 35°C), but the nightlife kicks into high gear.
• Winter (Dec–Feb) ❄️ – Cold, with occasional snow, but the city looks magical and cozy cafés come alive.

For Foodies

• Dolmama 🍇 – An upscale restaurant serving dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and other Armenian classics in a chic setting.
• Sherep 🍽️ – A modern spot near Republic Square where you can watch chefs prepare dishes in an open kitchen. Their lamb kebabs are unforgettable.
• In Vino 🍷 – Yerevan’s best wine bar, with a wide selection of Armenian wines and great cheese boards.
• Tavern Yerevan (Pandok Yerevan) 🍗 – A lively place to try traditional dishes like khorovats (barbecue) and lavash fresh from the tonir oven.
• Cascade Royal 🍰 – A café with great views near the Cascade, perfect for coffee and dessert after a climb.
• Anteb 🥙 – A family-run Syrian-Armenian restaurant beloved for its falafel, hummus, and kebabs.
• Wine Republic 🍇 – Popular with locals and expats alike, this bistro combines European flair with Armenian wine culture.
• Bakery at GUM Market 🥖 – Grab freshly baked gata (sweet bread) or nazook (flaky pastry with walnut filling).

Yerevan is the kind of city that sneaks up on you—it may not have the skyscrapers of global capitals, but its warm hospitality, rich history, and lively café culture leave a lasting impression. Between the pink-stone streets, the soulful music, and the eternal presence of Mount Ararat on the horizon, you’ll quickly realize Yerevan isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. 🌸🍷