The best time to visit Yerevan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are moderate, making it ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding countryside. Winters can be cold, and summers are hot and dry.
Visitors in Yerevan can enjoy a variety of activities including touring the city's museums and art galleries, relaxing in its numerous parks and gardens, exploring ancient churches and cultural landmarks, tasting Armenian cuisine, and enjoying the nightlife with its many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Yerevan is generally considered safe for tourists. The city experiences lower crime rates compared to many other capital cities. However, as in any urban area, it is advisable to exercise normal precautions, especially at night, and keep an eye on personal belongings.
The local currency in Yerevan is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and stores, especially in the main tourist areas, but it is also useful to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Visa requirements for Yerevan, Armenia vary depending on your country of origin. Many countries are eligible for visa-free entry or can obtain a visa on arrival or online (e-Visa). It is essential to check the latest visa requirements from the official Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an Armenian embassy before planning your trip.
When visiting Yerevan, you should try traditional Armenian dishes such as Dolma (stuffed grape leaves), Lavash (a thin flatbread), Khorovats (Armenian barbecue), Ghapama (stuffed pumpkin), and a variety of kebabs. Don't miss tasting Armenian brandy, which is highly reputed.
While Armenian is the predominant language in Yerevan, many residents, especially younger people and those working in the tourism sector, have a basic to good command of English. However, it would be beneficial to learn a few basic phrases in Armenian to navigate more rural areas and as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Yerevan has an extensive network of buses and minibuses (marshrutkas), and a metro system that runs across major parts of the city. Public transport is quite affordable, though it can be crowded. Taxis are also easily available and reasonably priced; many offer services through mobile apps, which can be convenient for non-Armenian speakers.
Armenians are known for their hospitality and tend to be formal and polite in social situations. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and follow the local customs like removing your hat. It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home. Tipping in restaurants and cafes is common practice, around 10% is customary if service charge is not included.
