Often referred to as the “Rose City” due to the distinctive pink volcanic tuff stone used in its buildings, Yerevan, Armenia, stands as one of the world’s most ancient continuously inhabited Christian cities. This captivating capital, rich in profound history, vibrant culture, and an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere, is a true jewel nestled within the Southern Caucasus region, strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East. For travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience, Yerevan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern vitality, making it an essential destination in any Armenian itinerary.
Following a serene interlude at the breathtaking Lake Sevan, our journey continued to Armenia’s dynamic capital, Yerevan. This sprawling metropolis lies gracefully close to the borders of both Iran and Turkey, perpetually watched over by the majestic silhouette of Mount Ararat. This iconic mountain, deeply significant to the Armenian people and a powerful religious symbol for the nation’s Christian population, once formed part of historical Armenia. Today, it resides within Turkish territory, a legacy of the Ottoman Empire. Its profound importance is further underscored by its legendary status as the rumored resting place of Noah’s Ark. Witnessing the mountain’s grand base was an awe-inspiring experience, stirring a desire for clearer skies to behold its enormous peak in its full, unobstructed glory during our visit.
For those planning a trip with aspirations of venturing closer to the revered Mount Ararat, it’s crucial to understand the geopolitical realities of the region. Direct passage into Turkey from Armenia remains impossible due to closed borders. While there are significant Armenian religious sites located near Ararat, accessing the mountain itself from the Armenian side is not permitted. International travelers typically enter Armenia via land from Georgia or by air, with flights from cities like Istanbul offering a viable route. The borders with both Turkey and Azerbaijan are closed, making Georgia the primary overland entry point for most visitors. I eagerly anticipate my own future travels through Turkey, which I hope will offer a different perspective on this fascinating part of the world.
One of the initial practical challenges I encountered in Yerevan was navigating the local currency. In neighboring Georgia, remembering that the Lari was approximately 2.5 to the US dollar was relatively straightforward. However, the Armenian Dram presented a more complex conversion, with roughly 500 drams equating to one US dollar. While prices for goods and services in central Yerevan were comparable to a moderately priced American city—slightly less expensive, but not dramatically so—the cost of living in rural Armenia was astonishingly low. I vividly recall purchasing a substantial loaf of bread, delicious gelato, local cheese, and several bottles of water, along with gasoline, for approximately 1,000 drams (a mere $2 USD) at a roadside stop just south of the Georgian border. This stark difference highlights the economic diversity within Armenia and offers incredible value for budget-conscious travelers outside the capital.
To aid in managing foreign currencies, I wholeheartedly recommend downloading a reliable currency exchange application, such as the XE Currency app, for both iPhone and Android devices. Although I opted against paying for roaming data, this app proved invaluable. Even with offline access to exchange rates, it provided a clear and immediate understanding of exactly what I was paying for various items. Having such a tool on hand is incredibly worthwhile for any international traveler, especially in regions with complex or rapidly fluctuating exchange rates.
Our inaugural exploration of Yerevan led us to Victory Park, home to the imposing Mother Armenia Statue. This significant monument and memorial offers panoramic vistas across the entire city. Although a persistent haze obscured the distant landscape during our visit, we could still discern the faint outlines of Mount Ararat and its smaller companion, Lesser Ararat. Unfortunately, the dense atmosphere prevented us from clearly seeing the main peak and beyond into the territories of Turkey and Iran. The intricate designs adorning the doorway leading into the military museum, housed within the base of the Mother Armenia statue, were simply breathtaking. It was striking to observe numerous symbols and architectural elements referencing the Soviet Republic, a contrast to Georgia, where many former USSR icons had been systematically removed. Our local guide explained that while many such remnants were being gradually phased out in Armenia, some areas lacked the necessary funding for their removal or simply hadn’t undergone modernization yet, leaving a fascinating tapestry of historical layers for visitors to discover.
While Victory Park itself was not our primary destination, my husband and I found ourselves strolling through its expansive grounds in search of a restroom, as no public facilities were available at the military museum. The amusement rides within the park looked genuinely enjoyable, and the park’s overall ambiance was quite scenic and pleasant for a leisurely walk. However, the restrooms themselves presented a notable cultural experience. In Victory Park, much like in several other locations across Yerevan and rural Armenia, public facilities often consist of squat toilets – simple ceramic-coated holes in the ground. These typically cost around $1 USD to use, with an additional fee of a few hundred drams (approximately fifty cents) for toilet paper, often of a crepe-paper-like consistency. While traveling in Poland, I had learned the invaluable lesson of carrying small coins and tissues for European restrooms, where charges are common and toilet paper can be an extra amenity. Regrettably, I had overlooked this essential practice in Armenia. This oversight led to a memorable situation where we had to purchase several bottles of Fanta simply to obtain enough change for the restroom attendant, who couldn’t break our larger denomination dram notes. This practical tip – always carry small change and tissues – is a vital piece of advice for any traveler venturing into Eastern Europe, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Given that our stay in Yerevan was regrettably brief – just an afternoon and an evening, far too short to fully absorb the splendor of this gorgeous city – our activities were somewhat limited. Nevertheless, we made the most of our time by embarking on extensive walks across the city, allowing us to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and admire the distinctive rose-colored stone architecture that gives Yerevan its famous moniker. Our wanderings led us to a charming, bustling flea market, a treasure trove where I delighted in purchasing exquisite local copper goods at surprisingly affordable prices. I acquired several traditional Armenian coffee pots and a few small, intricately crafted crosses for our children, mementos that would forever remind us of this unique city. The remainder of the afternoon was spent simply marveling at the stunning urban landscape before we headed to our scheduled tour at the renowned Ararat Distillery, a highlight for many visitors to the Armenian capital.
The Ararat Brandy Company is an architectural marvel in itself, constructed entirely from the same captivating rose-colored stone seen throughout Yerevan. Its walls are adorned with intricate ironwork, adding to its grand and historic appearance. This iconic distillery is perched high on a hill, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city below, situated opposite the radio tower and the Mother Armenia statue, near the city’s soccer stadium. Unfortunately, our arrival for the tour was a bit rushed, preventing us from capturing photographs of the breathtaking cityscape. Ararat Distillery offers guided tours throughout the day in multiple languages, each culminating in a delightful tasting experience. We opted for the slightly more comprehensive tasting, which included four distinct varieties of their renowned brandy. Among these was the legendary Dvin, famously rumored to be Winston Churchill’s favorite brandy and served at the historic Yalta Conference, a testament to its esteemed heritage.
The tour of the Ararat Brandy Company proved to be a fascinating journey through history, albeit without a direct view of the modern production lines, unlike the whiskey tours we had experienced in the American South and Scotland. Instead, we were treated to an impressive display of historical artifacts and traditions. We observed casks specially reserved for world leaders; a unique custom dictates that when heads of state visit the company, they are presented with a personal barrel of brandy, available for their enjoyment anytime they are in Yerevan. Historically, the company even measured leaders’ weights while they stood inside a barrel, then presented them with a barrel of brandy equivalent to their weight. Notable figures honored in this tradition include former President of Poland, Lech Walesa, and Alexander Lukashenko, President of Belarus – a detail we enthusiastically photographed for my new Belarusian sister-in-law.
A particularly poignant stop on our tour was a dedicated room housing the “Barrel of Peace.” This symbolic barrel, according to the company, will only be opened once the enduring conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh has been peacefully and definitively resolved, a powerful statement reflecting the region’s hopes for lasting stability.
The grand finale of our tour was, without a doubt, the brandy sampling – an experience I strongly advise against missing when visiting Yerevan. While I wouldn’t typically describe myself as a dedicated brandy enthusiast, Ararat’s exquisite selection impressed me profoundly. Each varietal was remarkably smooth, beautifully oaked, and characterized by rich, complex caramel notes. The Dvin, with its historical prestige, was indeed my personal favorite. I am pleased to know that this exceptional brandy is relatively easy to order in the United States, allowing me to savor a taste of Armenia long after my trip.
Where to Stay in Yerevan
Yerevan offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique stays. When planning your visit to this magnificent city, considering where to lay your head is paramount for a comfortable and convenient experience.
Paris Hotel: For an unbeatable combination of price and opulent comfort, the Paris Hotel is an exceptional choice in Yerevan. We found it to be a truly luxurious establishment, boasting spacious rooms, a deep soaking tub perfect for relaxation, a sizable private balcony, and an incredibly comfortable bed. A highlight of our stay was the complimentary breakfast buffet, served in an amazingly gorgeous rooftop restaurant that offered delectable dishes alongside stunning city views. At approximately $120 per night, the Paris Hotel truly delivers outstanding value, arguably making it one of the best hotels in Yerevan. While situated a few blocks off the main Republic Square, its location proved ideal for exploring the city on foot, with easy access to excellent shops and restaurants, enhancing our overall travel experience in Armenia.
If you need me tonight, I’ll be here! #parishotel #yerevan #armenia #easterneurope #europe #epiceasterneuropevacation #instagood
A photo posted by Courtney O’Dell (@sweetcsdesigns) on
Yerevan Marriott Hotel: The Marriott Hotel boasts an unparalleled location directly on Yerevan’s iconic Republic Square, placing you at the heart of the city’s pulse. Although we did not stay here, its lobby exuded an undeniable elegance and grandeur. For travelers prioritizing prime location and renowned international service, the Marriott offers an excellent option for exploring Yerevan’s cultural landmarks and vibrant city life.
Where to Eat and Drink in Yerevan
Yerevan’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Armenian flavors and international influences, offering a diverse range of dining experiences from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Exploring the local gastronomy is an integral part of any visit to the Rose City.
Shaurma Club: This popular fast-food spot is ubiquitous throughout Yerevan, making it one of the best and most convenient options for a quick, satisfying meal. The pork shaurma was a unique find, distinct from many halal-certified establishments in other countries that typically do not serve pork. It was incredibly juicy, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The chicken shaurma was equally divine, showcasing the establishment’s mastery of this beloved Middle Eastern street food. A definite must-try for a casual yet authentic taste of Yerevan.
Mon Cafe: Nestled within the elegant lobby of the Paris Hotel, Mon Cafe offers a sophisticated blend of a cigar lounge and a Starbucks-style cafe. Here, patrons can savor expertly brewed coffee alongside premium Cuban cigars. Securing a spot on its charming patio provides the perfect vantage point to relax and watch the vibrant daily life unfold as people stroll through the bustling streets of downtown Yerevan.
My husband and I are smoking Cuban cigars at a French cafe…. In Yerevan Armenia.
A photo posted by Courtney O’Dell (@sweetcsdesigns) on
Ararat Brandy Company: Beyond its historical significance, the Ararat Brandy Company offers an exceptional tasting experience that no visitor to Yerevan should miss. Tours are available all day in several languages, providing insights into the brand’s rich heritage. Opting for the four-brandy tasting is highly recommended, allowing you to sample varieties including the famous Dvin, Winston Churchill’s alleged favorite. Sip this historic brandy while contemplating the company’s colorful past and its profound connection to Armenian culture and international diplomacy. It’s an immersive experience that blends history, craftsmanship, and a taste of refined Armenian tradition.