Overview

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, was founded in 782 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, predating even Rome. The city’s rich and layered history stretches from its ancient Urartian roots to its Soviet-era architecture and a vibrant, modern revival. Yerevan blends Armenian tradition with European influences, seen in its grand opera houses, leafy boulevards, and lively cafés.

Built from volcanic tuff stone, the city earns its nickname, the “Pink City,” thanks to the warm, rosy hue of its distinctive buildings. Nestled along the Hrazdan River near the Caucasus Mountains, Yerevan offers a dynamic cultural scene filled with museums, historic sites, and bustling public spaces. Its streets are lined with cozy cafés, wine bars, and restaurants serving delicious Armenian cuisine and world-renowned brandy. With its welcoming atmosphere, walkable neighborhoods, and deep-rooted heritage, Yerevan is a truly captivating city to explore.

Things To See & Do

Visit the Cascades Complex, the most iconic place in Yervan. This is a giant stairway with modern art, panoramic views, and a contemporary art museum inside. The steps were built to connect the downtown city to the higher up residential areas of Yeveran. Even though the steps were built between 1971 to 1980 and the complex where the steps are located is beautiful, surrounded by beautiful fountains, architecture, Armenian cross-stones, courtyards, and gardens with unique sculptures.

When you reach the top of the cascade steps, you can continue climbing, past the Memorial of the 50th anniversary of Soviet Armenia. As you walk through the trees and fun fair rides, you’ll come across Mother Aremia. This copper statue has a greater meaning, symbolizing peace through strength.

Wander around Republic Square and the History Museum. This beautiful square is the heart of the city and where there’s always a lot of activity. In summer, the fountains are full of water and people relax on one of the benches, especially in the evening when the dancing fountains, lights, and music are turned on for everyone to enjoy. You’ll also find the History Museum of Armenia here, which is well worth a visit. This multilevel display showcases various artefacts and the history of both the country and the region from the Stone Age all the way up to the present day.

Visit the Opera Theatre. This is one of the best examples of heavy Soviet architecture and a must-see for anyone who enjoys seeing remnants of the Soviet past in the region. It was designed and built by the Soviets in the 1930s and holds ballet and opera performances regularly. The surrounding park area is also popular for families to congregate on sunny afternoons and summer evenings.

Visit the Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church. Dating back to the 1260s, this Orthodox church is the oldest in Yerevan. There’s a tiny chapel next to a newer cathedral, and it’s right in the middle of the city. You’ll find people stopping to pray as they pass the church, and it’s a nice spot to just observe the local devotion to faith.

Explore the neighborhood Kond. This area is one of the oldest parts of the city and where you can get a glimpse of what the city was like before the imposing Soviet buildings were built in the city center. It’s residential and a very rundown part of the town, and it’s not technically a tourist spot, but the charm is just in walking the laneways and streets.

Stroll through the excellent markets of Yerevan. The Vernissage Market is an ope-air flea market which is held daily . There’s everything from Soviet memorabilia to carpets to jewelry and souvenirs. You can easily spend hours here looking at all the stalls. Feel free to negotiate prices and be wary of pickpockets.

The GUM Market is a large covered fresh produce market where locals come to buy all their food from local vendors. You can find butchers, bakers, farmers, as well as vendors with dried fruit and nuts. One of the highlights is watching the traditional Armenian bread, lavash, being made and sold. It’s a bit touristy, so items are priced higher, but bargaining is acceptable. You’ll also likely be offered a free taste of chacha. Mulberry and apricot flavors are the most popular. The drink is 70% vodka, so tread lightly!

Visit the Armenian Genocide Museum. Even if you’re not a history buff, this is a must-do in Yerevan. This series of free exhibits and monuments depicts the history and impact of the Turkish war and genocide against Armenians in the early 1900’s.

Take a guided tour and uncover the fascinating history of the Erebuni Fortress. Founded in 782 B.C. by King Argishti I of the ancient Kingdom of Urartu, Erebuni is one of the oldest fortified cities in the world. This impressive stronghold was strategically built on Arin Berd hill overlooking the Ararat Plain and is considered the birthplace of Yerevan, Armenia’s modern capital. The fortress served as a major administrative and military center during the height of the Urartian Empire, which once extended from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean.

Today, visitors can walk among the well-preserved ruins, including stone foundations, defensive walls, and remnants of ancient frescoes. Adjacent to the site, the Erebuni Historical and Archaeological Museum offers a deeper dive into the kingdom of Urartu, showcasing artifacts unearthed from the site.

Food & Wine

Armenian cuisine is filled with exciting flavors, and the capital city of Yerevan is truly a food lover’s paradise. It’s also one of the birthplaces of wine, adding even more richness to the local culinary culture. Among the many traditional dishes to try, lavash bread is a must-try. Recognized by UNESCO as Armenia’s national bread, this soft, versatile carb is an essential part of the Armenian diet. Many Armenians won’t begin eating without a side of lavash, which is often dried and stored for months, later added to soups for extra texture and flavor.

Another must-try is khorovats, a savory Armenian barbecue made with pork, lamb, or chicken, typically enjoyed during festive gatherings. Dolma is a classic dish made with minced meat, onions, rice, and spices, all wrapped in vine leaves. For something a bit different, the eggplant salad with walnuts might surprise you, its unique combination of flavors is unexpectedly delicious.

Pomegranate also plays a prominent role in Armenian cuisine. As one of the country’s most popular fruits, it holds cultural significance, with ancient beliefs linking its consumption to fertility. Today, it’s enjoyed raw or used as a garnish in various traditional dishes. And, of course, there’s wine. Wine is deeply embedded in Armenian culture, and you’ll find wine bars scattered throughout Yerevan. The nearby village of Areni is known for having some of the oldest wineries in the world, and most local establishments serve wine from this region, particularly from the Areni Winery, a brand known for being both delicious and affordable.