Are you planning to visit the Caucasus countries, especially Armenia and its capital Yerevan?
In our article One Day in Yerevan, you’ll find the best activities, tips on how to get around the city, where to stay, and much more.
Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, lies on the Hrazdan River and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back to the 8th century BC. Often called the “Pink City,” many of its buildings are constructed from volcanic pink tuff stone.
Yerevan is also known for its striking Soviet-era architecture and offers beautiful views of the sacred Mount Ararat, which is now located in modern-day Turkey but remains one of Armenia’s most cherished national symbols.
We spent two weeks in Yerevan and quickly fell in love with the city’s atmosphere. After exploring Armenia’s diverse landscapes and the endless views of Mount Ararat, we continued our journey by bus to the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi.
Table of Contents
DAYTIME ACTIVITIES FOR ONE DAY IN YEREVAN
CASCADE COMPLEX
Cascade Complex, Yerevan Armenia
The most famous attraction in all of Yerevan is definitely the Cascade Complex. It is a giant stairway featuring landscaped gardens, fountains, and statues, and is especially popular with tourists for its photogenic views. The complex also includes an art museum. You can reach the top of the Cascade either by climbing the stairs or using the internal escalators. Yerevan has many viewpoints, and the Cascade is one of the best.
Our tip: If you are planning to visit the Mother Armenia statue, the Memorial to the 50th Anniversary of the October Revolution, and the Cascade Complex, most people start at the Cascade and climb uphill. We chose the opposite approach, starting from Victory Park and walking downhill, which was much easier and just as scenic.
OCTOBER REVOLUTION 50TH ANNIVERSARY MEMORIAL
A nearby Soviet-era monument is the Revived Armenia obelisk, also known as the 50th Anniversary of the October Revolution Memorial. It was built in 1967 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the October Revolution. The monument is a popular spot to view the city, Mount Ararat, and the sunset.
MOTHER ARMENIA MONUMENT
Mother of Armenia Monument, Yerevan
The statue, built on a 22-meter-high pedestal, towers over the city. It is located on a hill in Victory Park, offering a panoramic view of Yerevan. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Ararat from there. Interestingly, the original statue was of Stalin, but it was later replaced by the figure of a woman holding a sword, symbolizing peace through strength.
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REPUBLIC SQUARE
Republic Square and architecture of metro station Republic Square
Republic Square is one of the most famous places in Yerevan, home to a hotel, a museum, the National Gallery, and the city’s singing fountains. The surrounding buildings are constructed from pink and yellow tuff stone and feature traditional Armenian motifs. There is also a metro station called Republic Square, known for its interesting architecture. During the Soviet era, the square was known as Lenin Square, and a statue of Lenin once stood there.
VERNISSAGE MARKET
Just a few minutes’ walk from Republic Square is the famous outdoor market, where you can find crafts, artwork, handmade items, jewelry, antiques, and textiles. Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s definitely worth a visit.
SAINT GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR CATHEDRAL
This cathedral is one of the largest religious buildings in the South Caucasus. It is located within walking distance of Vernissage, Circular Park, and the General Andranik metro station. The cathedral is a complex made up of three churches and is built in traditional Armenian architectural style. It is one of the symbols of Yerevan and is easy to spot, as it stands on a hill.
➡️ You can book your tours in Yerevan here ⬅️
TSITSERNAKABERD ARMENIAN GENOCIDE MEMORIAL COMPLEX
The memorial is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide and was built in 1967 on Tsitsernakaberd Hill, offering a great view of the city. The memorial complex includes a 44-meter-high stela made of 12 basalt slabs arranged in a circle, an eternal flame, and a museum.
If you’re in the area, be sure to visit the nearby Karen Demirtchian Sports and Concert Complex, known for its interesting architecture and the sculptures above its entrance. Both the genocide memorial and the sports/concert complex are located in Tsitsernakaberd Park.
The monument is an important site of remembrance, and on April 24, people gather here to honor the memory of the victims.
TRY LOCAL FOOD IN YEREVAN
Armenian cuisine is delicious and diverse, reflecting the country’s history, geography, and influences from surrounding countries. It combines elements from various civilizations, as well as neighboring regions such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the Caucasus.
Like many other countries, Armenia has its own version of dumplings called manti, which are stuffed with beef or lamb, along with spices and onions. These dumplings can be baked or stewed and are typically served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
Dolma are stuffed grape leaves, usually filled with lamb or beef and rice. There are various versions of this dish, including vegetarian ones, which are also popular in Turkey and Greece.
Kufta is another dish that is enjoyed in Armenia. These are meatballs made from lamb or beef, mixed with onions, rice, and spices, and served in a tomato sauce.
Armenia is also known for its fertile soil and unique climate, where many types of fruit thrive, including the famous Armenian apricots, pomegranates, figs, plums, grapes, cherries, pears, apples, peaches, and nectarines.
We highly recommend trying the local fruit. We ate it every day, and it was juicy, full of flavor, and aromatic, much like the last time we enjoyed fruit in Europe, when we were children in our grandmother’s garden.
Eating fruit in Armenia was surprisingly a highlight of our trip, along with the unique atmosphere of the city outside the center that perfectly reminded us of our childhood summers in Eastern Europe. We felt really at home there and we vividly remember Yerevan.
➡️ You can book your tours in Yerevan here ⬅️
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
NORTHERN RAY TOWERS
These buildings are iconic landmarks of Yerevan, also known as the “kissing buildings,” and are located on Nairi Zaryan Street. They are cascading, symmetrical residential towers. The Northern Ray Towers are part of a broader urban development project that aims to enhance Yerevan’s architectural landscape by blending modern design with historical context.
KIEVYAN BRIDGE
The Kievyan Bridge, also known as the Great Hrazdan Bridge, is both a transportation and architectural landmark in Yerevan. It spans the Hrazdan River and is notable for its reinforced concrete arch design. The bridge is located within walking distance of Tsitsernakaberd Park.
VARDANYANS PARK
Near the center of Yerevan, you’ll find Vardanyan Park, a peaceful green space with plenty of benches, statues, and fountains. It’s an ideal spot to relax during the day. In the summer months, children play joyfully in the fountains, and in the evening, the park comes alive with colorful lighting that illuminates the fountains and surrounding paths.
Like many other parks and public places in Yerevan, Vardanyan Park also has pulpulaks, public drinking fountains with cool, refreshing water that was especially welcome during the summer heat. We spent about an hour here, resting on a bench and soaking in the rhythm of daily life in Yerevan.
⬇️ Check out our other articles on traveling in the Caucasus ⬇️
🚂 The Tbilisi–Batumi Train
🚌 Tbilisi to Batumi Bus
🏙️ One day in Tbilisi
🚐 Bus from Tbilisi to Yerevan
ARARAT MUSEUM
For those interested, there is a museum dedicated to ARARAT brandy production in the city. They offer several tour packages, each including a visit to the museum and tastings of various ARARAT brandies, ranging from the basic option to a comparative tasting of 10-year-old selections.
The museum also features a shop where you can purchase all ARARAT products, and a knowledgeable team is available to assist you with any questions. For more details about the tours, visit their official website.
EVENING ACTIVITIES FOR ONE DAY IN YEREVAN
SINGING FOUNTAIN IN REPUBLIC SQUARE
Every evening from May to September, people gather at Republic Square to watch the Singing Fountain show, which takes place between 9 and 10 p.m. The fountains are illuminated with colorful lights and move in sync with the music. It’s a popular event enjoyed not only by tourists but also by locals, who come to relax and take in the lively atmosphere.
NORTHERN AVENUE
The pedestrian shopping street is very popular for strolling around the city. Whether you are planning to shop during your one day in Yerevan or not, it is definitely worth a visit. On the street you will find high end brands but also regular shops, fast food restaurants and often street artists and musicians performing here during the day or even in the evening.
VISIT CASCADE COMPLEX DURING SUNSET
Another popular place to hang out in the evening, especially at sunset, is the Cascade Complex. The grand staircase is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a unique atmosphere that, combined with the sunset views, makes it a perfect spot to spend the evening. Whether you choose to visit the Cascade during the day or at night, it is one of Yerevan’s main landmarks and definitely worth a visit.
VISIT DAY TOURS FROM YEREVAN
If you’re more interested in exploring the countryside, there are several day tours from Yerevan, depending on how much time you have.
✨ Book your day trip with GetYourGuide:
1.Yerevan: Tatev Day Trip with Shaki Waterfall & Wine Tasting (14 hours)
2.Yerevan: Khor Virap, Garni, Geghard, Echmiadzin, & Zvartnots (8 hours)
3.Day Trip to Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Ijevan Wine Brandy Factory (10 hours)
HOW TO GET TO YEREVAN
Yerevan, Armenia can be reached by land from the neighboring countries of Georgia or Iran. The Turkish and Azerbaijani borders are closed due to ongoing conflicts between the countries.
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It is convenient to travel to Yerevan from Georgia by bus or train. The train runs daily between Tbilisi and Yerevan during the summer season and takes about 10 hours. Minibuses operate several times a day. In our article, you will find detailed information about the bus journey from Tbilisi to Yerevan. We also have videos from journeys around the Caucasus with trains or buses on our youtube.
➡️ Book your ticket for minivan Tbilisi-Yerevan here ⬅️
Another option is taking a bus from the Iranian city of Tabriz to Yerevan. We also used this connection, purchasing our tickets through the company Tappersia.
➡️ Check out our video of crossing the Iran-Armenia border by bus ⬅️
HOW TO GET AROUND YEREVAN
Yerevan is a walkable city and home to the only metro in Armenia, which was built during the Soviet era in 1981. The metro plays an important role in urban public transport, especially during heavy traffic in the city center. It has one line and 10 stations, with the Republic Square and Yeritasardakan stations standing out for their distinctive architecture.
If you don’t want to get around by public transport, a good option is to rent a car in Yerevan. Then you can travel at your own pace without worrying about how to get around.
🚗 Rent a car for your trip in Yerevan 🚗
One thing to keep in mind is that while photography may not be officially prohibited in the metro, staff on the platforms generally discourage it—especially when it comes to photographing infrastructure. Guards are often stationed nearby and may ask you to stop if they see you taking pictures.
➡️ You can book your tours in Yerevan here ⬅️
WHERE TO STAY IN YEREVAN
Yerevan is a walkable city, and most tourists stay in the center around Republic Square and the Cascades, where nearly all the major attractions are within walking distance. The city offers accommodation in all price ranges, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels.
We stayed in the Shengavit area, which is not a tourist destination, but it has a metro station, making it easy to get to the center. We chose to stay there to experience a more local lifestyle. However, if you’re planning to spend just one day in Yerevan, it would be better to stay in the central area, as it will allow you to quickly access the main attractions or catch the train to Tbilisi.
➡️ Book your hotel in Yerevan ⬅️
Q&A
Is Yerevan in Asia or Europe?
The South Caucasus, where Armenia is located, lies between the continents of Europe and Asia. Geographically, it is considered part of Western Asia, but cities like Yerevan and Tbilisi often have a European feel due to their architecture, culture, and atmosphere.
Is Yerevan worth visiting?
Definitely yes! Yerevan is a very authentic and distinctive city. It has a bit of a European vibe, yet feels far removed from the typical touristy and crowded cities in Europe. If you’re looking for a place with rich history, remarkable architecture, and a great atmosphere without the crowds, then Yerevan is the right choice.
Do they speak English in Yerevan?
The official language of Armenia is Armenian, but Russian is still widely spoken due to the country’s Soviet past. Some younger people also speak English, and its popularity is growing every year.
Can I drink tap water in Yerevan?
The tap water in Armenia is safe to drink, as the country is blessed with an abundance of fresh mountain water. You can even find drinking fountains called pulpulaks all over the country, in parks, near tourist attractions, and throughout cities.
OUR FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES
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Travel insurance: Never travel without travel insurance! Ekta works all over the world and has 10 years of experience in the industry. It is your right choice!
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Luggage storage: Radical storage is such a helpful Luggage storage network! When we have a late check-in or an early check-out we don’t need to carry our luggage with us, we just simply put it in the Radical storage which operates in over 70 countries!
E-sim card: The best way how avoid all the stress of searching for local SIM cards or wifi signals and save time after you arrive in your new country is to get Airalo e-sim. Download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions!
