Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Yerevan, Armenia

The capital city of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan is recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. Its origins trace back to the 8th century with the establishment of the fortress of Erebuni by King Argishti I. Yerevan is often referred to as the ‘Pink City’ due to the distinctive color of the stones employed in constructing much of the city center, particularly in a compact area known as Kentron. This district, among others, has witnessed significant development over the past decade, leading to an increase in restaurants, cafés, shops, and hotels.

Tip: Consider acquiring the Yerevan Card. The Yerevan Card serves as the official city pass for Yerevan, granting free access to 40 museums, various tours, and attractions, along with discounts of 10-40% at over 150 partner organizations throughout Yerevan. Furthermore, it allows for complimentary use of city transport, including taxis and the subway.

The capital city is rapidly establishing itself as a significant tourist spot, thanks to its numerous landmarks, vibrant nightlife, impressive museums, and picturesque parks.

Let’s explore the best activities to engage in while visiting Yerevan:

1. Go on a walking tour of the city centre

A walking tour provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in Yerevan’s culture, history, and culinary offerings. The city center serves as the hub for this experience, hosting notable landmarks such as the grand Republic Square, the impressive Opera House, the 18th-century Blue Mosque, and the renowned Cascade complex.

Wandering through the city center is a remarkable way to observe the city’s historical evolution, from Persian times through to the Soviet era. Additionally, individuals will catch a glimpse of Yerevan’s contemporary landscape, characterized by modern architecture, coffee shops, and fashionable restaurants lining the alleys and main thoroughfares.

2. Watch the city from the top of the Cascade

This expansive stairway is strategically located in the city center and serves as one of its iconic landmarks. Constructed during the Soviet period in 1971, it underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2009.

The Cascade functions as a grand stairway connecting the Kentron area to the Monument neighborhood. It features eight levels, all accessible by ascending the stairs; however, an elevator is available for those preferring not to walk.

The vistas overlooking the city while ascending the staircase are breathtaking, particularly at night when the city illuminates. This experience is undoubtedly a highlight not to be overlooked.

3. Window shop on Northern Avenue

This pedestrian-only avenue is situated in the Kentron area, connecting Abovyan Street with Freedom Square (Tumanyan Street). The wide avenue, inaugurated in 2007, measures 450 meters in length and 27 meters in width.

Northern Avenue is comprised of 11 buildings and 4 small squares. Additionally, it features an underground mall and parking facility.

Some of Yerevan’s most upscale retail outlets can be found along this pedestrian promenade, including Armani, Steve Madden, Desigual, and Burberry. A variety of chain fast-food restaurants and contemporary coffee shops provide excellent spots for relaxation and people watching.

4. Have a picnic in a park

The city is dotted with numerous parks that offer ideal settings for relaxation, where one can remove their shoes and enjoy a delightful picnic. Lovers Park, the most well-known, is also the oldest park in Yerevan.

Featuring a traditional Japanese landscape, Lovers Park has recently undergone extensive renovations. It is a perfect venue for a romantic picnic among couples, with its serene ponds, waterfalls, and tranquil spaces.

English Park is another excellent option for a picnic and is commonly used as a backdrop for wedding photographs. Tumanyan Park and Buenos Aires Park also offer great picnic environments.

5. Splash around in the water

On a warm summer day, consider visiting Yerevan Water World for a refreshing experience. This three-hectare water park features 12 water slides, 7 outdoor pools, 3 indoor pools, and 2 designated children’s areas.

Yerevan Water World caters to the entire family; however, individuals of all ages can revel in the fun at this impressive water park. Outdoors, there are 2 expansive swimming pools, 3 pools equipped with water slides, a VIP pool, and a children’s pool, complemented by food stalls and a restaurant.

Indoors, visitors can unwind at Aquatek, which includes the Aquatek Spa Hotel featuring geysers, spa treatments, and a fitness club. Additionally, there are 2 large pools, a children’s pool, and wall-climbing facilities available in this section of the water park.

6. Go ice skating

During the winter months, one of the expansive outdoor pools at Yerevan Water World transforms into a 500 square metre ice rink. This activity is highly enjoyable and is a must for anyone visiting Yerevan during winter.

Alternatively, individuals can visit Swan Lake to skate alongside locals. Located adjacent to the Opera House, this picturesque lake presents a serene venue for skating while immersing oneself in the fresh air and scenic surroundings. Skate rentals are readily available, enhancing the experience for tourists visiting the city.

7. Get lost on winding streets and alleyways

Kond is one of the city’s oldest districts, with origins dating back to the 17th century. This quarter is situated on a hill that overlooks the city center.

The area is characterized by various Ottoman, Persian, and Muslim houses, featuring walls 1.5 meters thick, originally constructed from clay and small stones. These residences line narrow streets and alleyways that measure between 90 to 120 centimeters in width.

Exploring Kond offers an enriching experience, allowing one to admire the ancient architecture and discover hidden gems. Take an afternoon to wander through the winding streets and alleyways of Kond, as unexpected discoveries abound.

8. Learn about the city’s history

Yerevan, with its extensive history, some of which is turbulent and some less so, offers various avenues to learn about its past, especially through its museums.

The History Museum of Armenia, housing over 400,000 artifacts, is arguably the premier destination for those interested in Yerevan’s history and that of the country at large. It features departments covering Ethnography, Archaeology, Numismatics, and Modern History, each with extensive collections.

The National Gallery of Armenia holds the largest collection of Armenian art while also showcasing works by numerous European and Russian artists. For those interested in the darker aspects of history, the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute is an essential visit.

9. Shop for local art

The weekend Yerevan Vernissage, a large open-air market, is located along Aram and Buzand streets, near the Republic Square metro station. Established in the 1980s by local artists to showcase and sell their creations, it has evolved significantly in size and popularity.

The market has expanded from its initial location next to Charles Aznavour Square to its current setting, stretching from the Republic Square metro station to the statue of Vardan Mamikonyan.

This vibrant venue is perfect for acquiring a variety of traditional Armenian artwork, including rugs, wood carvings, paintings, musical instruments, and jewelry. Saryan Park also offers exceptional opportunities to purchase artwork.

10. Hang out at Republic Square

Centrally located in the Kentron neighborhood, Republic Square, known locally as Hraparak, is a stunning square that took nearly 50 years to complete, primarily constructed during the 1950s.

Visitors can easily spend an entire day and evening at Republic Square, as it is home to various landmarks such as the History Museum, the National Gallery, and the Government House, along with the iconic Armenia Marriott Hotel. The square is visually striking both during daylight and at night when illuminated.

A particularly impressive feature of the square is its musical fountains. From early spring to late autumn, visitors can enjoy a captivating fountain and light spectacle accompanied by diverse music genres.

11. Sip on brandy

Ararat is the oldest brandy producer in Armenia, established in 1887 by merchant Nerses Tairyants. It later attained status as the supplier to His Imperial Majesty’s court, gaining worldwide acclaim and admiration from figures such as Frank Sinatra, Agatha Christie, and Winston Churchill.

The distillery offers guided tours, which include tastings. The tour comprises visits to the in-house museum, where guests can explore the company’s history and the production of this esteemed spirit.

In addition to touring the historic cellar, guests can sample two or three varieties of brandy. For any connoisseur, a visit to Ararat is essential.

12. Delight your taste buds

Armenian cuisine, representative of Caucasian culinary traditions, is notably delicious, emphasizing freshness and quality over excessive seasoning. This is not to suggest that Armenian dishes lack flavor; on the contrary, dishes such as dzhash (stew), kabob (grilled meat), and pilaf (rice with meat) are immensely satisfying.

Fresh herbs play a vital role in Armenian dishes, including parsley, dill, coriander, basil, oregano, and tarragon. Influences from neighboring countries, including Turkey and Iran, further enrich the flavors.

To sample authentic dishes such as barbecue and fish, themed restaurants in the Hrazdan Gorge are ideal. Additionally, various establishments offer meals accompanied by traditional folk music, along with several upscale venues presenting Armenian-fusion cuisine.

13. Step back into medieval times

The medieval monastery of Geghard is a stunning edifice, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic site is partially carved into a mountain and is surrounded by forests and cliffs.

The main chapel was established in 1215, although the complex itself dates back to the 4th century. The cliffs encircling this magnificent site are part of the Azat River gorge, where certain churches are entirely excavated from the rock, while others resemble caves.

Although Geghard is not located within Yerevan, it is situated just outside the city. A day trip to this extraordinary monastery is highly recommended for all visitors.

14. Listen to Music

Yerevan boasts an abundant selection of musical experiences, encompassing opera, folk, rock, and electronic dance music. Venues such as restaurants, parks, concert halls, bars, and nightclubs feature an array of musical performances throughout the city.

The Cascades and Lovers Park frequently host concerts during the spring and summer months, making them worthwhile events to attend. The Yerevan Opera Theatre and Komitas Chamber Music House typically offer affordable last-minute tickets to operas, symphonies, and ballets.

Additionally, numerous nightclubs, pubs, jazz cafés, and karaoke bars cater to night owls and provide excellent opportunities to connect with locals.

15. Go to a football match

Yerevan is home to five teams competing in the Armenian football league: FC Ararat Yerevan, Erebuni FC, FC Pyunik, FC Banants, and Alashkert FC. Furthermore, there are numerous teams in smaller leagues.

Moreover, the city features several football stadiums, with Hrazdan Stadium being the largest, serving as the home ground for FC Ararat Yerevan. The Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium is the official venue for the Armenia national football team.

Football enthusiasts can easily obtain last-minute tickets for any matches occurring during their stay in the city. Attending one of these matches promises a fun-filled experience for fans and an excellent way to spend an afternoon or evening.