Dating back to the 8th century, Yerevan is one of the longest-inhabited cities in the world. The capital of Armenia sits in the south of the country and is home to tree-lined boulevards, cosy taverns and pink-stone buildings, from which it gets the famous nickname of the “Pink City”.
Things to do in Yerevan
The heart of the city can be found in Republic Square, home to water fountains and colonial government buildings boasting Neo-Classical architecture. Just off the square’s centre is Northern Avenue, a shop-lined street home to international brands including Polo Ralph Lauren and Emporio Armani.
If vintage souvenir shopping is more your thing, visit Vernissage, a bustling outdoor flea market. Here you’ll find local vendors selling everything from clothing and jewellery to ancient artefacts and crafts. Spend an hour or two wandering amidst the stalls seeking out a bargain.
The Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Museum is a must-see. This memorial site honours the lives lost in the Armenian Genocide. See the eternal flame in the centre of the memorial, before heading to the museum for a better understanding of the atrocities that took place here.
Come evening, the Yerevan Opera Theatre is the place to be. The theatre first opened its doors in 1933 while still under Soviet rule and many great Armenia and Russian ballets, operas and plays have performed here, including Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake”.
Getting around Yerevan
Zvartnots International Airport is located 15 minutes west of the city. You can take a minibus, taxi or Aerotaxi into Yerevan. Central Yerevan can be explored on foot or you can make use of the subway, bus and trolleybus systems.