Yerevan—the capital of Armenia—is a cradle of Christianity and a treasury of wonders. It’s a city where you’ll never be bored: wherever you go, something captivating awaits. It’s only natural to want to explore every corner of Yerevan, to wander its streets and uncover its hidden gems. That may be easier said than done: Armenia’s capital is vast, and the number of attractions is nothing short of overwhelming. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve selected the most significant sights.
Towering above the city on the summit of Arin Berd hill, the ancient fortress of Erebuni is one of Armenia’s most important historical landmarks. This stronghold once lay at the heart of the military affairs of the Urartu Kingdom. Much of the structure has withstood the passage of time—its outer walls, stone staircases, interconnecting corridors, and fragments of mural paintings still echo the power of an ancient civilization.
Entry to the site costs 1,000 drams (around 140 rubles), and tickets can be purchased at the gate. The museum is open daily except Mondays, closing at 16:30. It’s best to arrive early in the morning before the crowds—this way, you can absorb the quiet majesty of the site at your own pace.
Republic Square is the beating heart of Yerevan, the crossroads of its principal avenues. Here you’ll find the buildings of the Armenian government and the National Gallery. From May through October, an enchanting display of singing fountains animates the square each night between 10 p.m. and midnight. Interestingly, this was the first location in the entire Soviet Union where singing fountains made their debut.
Another fascinating footnote in the square’s history: in 2015, it hosted a massive concert by the band System of a Down, held in remembrance of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Nearly 100,000 people attended. It’s worth noting that all members of the internationally renowned group are of Armenian descent.
One of Yerevan’s architectural marvels and cultural highlights, the Cascade is a unique terraced complex that has become a symbol of the city. This monumental staircase consists of five ascending levels and is home to art galleries, open-air sculptures, and public spaces that pulse with creative energy.
Climbing the Cascade is more than a walk—it’s an experience, an opportunity to witness sweeping views of Yerevan unfold before your eyes. As you ascend, the city reveals itself: grand Soviet-era buildings, sleek business centers, and—if the skies are clear—the majestic silhouette of Mount Ararat on the horizon. It is for this breathtaking panorama that visitors willingly climb ever higher.
No journey through Yerevan would be complete without a visit to Tsitsernakaberd—a site that offers deep insight into the soul of Armenia. This memorial park was created to honor the victims of the first systematically organized genocide of the 20th century, which claimed the lives of 1.5 million Armenians. The memory of this tragedy is etched into the national identity and can be felt throughout Armenian culture and consciousness.
The memorial complex is best reached by taxi, as the route winds through mountainous terrain and busy roads, making it less accessible by foot or public transport.
Capturing the full essence of Yerevan in just one day is impossible—but it’s certainly worth a try. Here’s a well-planned walking route that takes in the capital’s main attractions.
If you’re planning to explore Yerevan on foot, setting aside one or two days is ideal. The city isn’t large, and this timeframe is enough to appreciate its main highlights. The most convenient route spans 11 kilometers, a distance that can be comfortably walked in four hours at a relaxed pace—or three, if you’re in a hurry.
The route begins at Victory Park (Ahtanak) and concludes at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Cascade complex, Freedom and Republic Squares, the charming Vernissage open-air market, and the historic Kond district.
This path allows you to descend the Cascade rather than climb it—an especially welcome detail during the hot summer months.
Victory Park
Victory Park—known affectionately by locals as “The Monument”—sits atop the Nork Plateau, gazing over the city below with quiet dignity. Strolling leisurely through its serene alleys, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramas of Yerevan from a spectacular vantage point. On clear days, the silhouette of Mount Ararat looms in the distance, majestic and snow-capped. Though located some 50 kilometers away, across the border in Turkey, the mountain remains etched in the soul of Armenia and its people.
The Cascade
The Cascade isn’t just architecture—it’s an experience. This monumental stairway complex, nestled in the heart of Yerevan, bursts with fountains, sculptures, and art spaces that make it one of the city’s most iconic sites. Comprising five broad terraces linked by grand staircases, the Cascade invites exploration. In summer, whimsical fountains and bold sculptures animate each level, blending stone with spirit.
Atop the Cascade, the city unfolds like a living canvas. Known as the “Pink City” for its buildings crafted from rosy-hued tuff, Yerevan glows at sunset in shades of gold and blush. The scene is nothing short of magic—a moment made for capturing and sharing. Within the structure lies the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, a vibrant museum where contemporary art comes alive. Visitors can admire works by Marc Chagall and even Andy Warhol. For added comfort, escalators hidden inside the stairway provide an effortless ascent. Since 2021, admission to the museum has been free for all.
Freedom Square
At Freedom Square, elegance reigns. Here stands the majestic Yerevan Opera Theatre, a cultural gem where timeless classics by Mozart, Verdi, Rachmaninoff, and Khachaturian are performed. Tickets start at 5,000 rubles, but premium seats cost upwards of 15,000–20,000, so booking in advance is advised to secure the best views of the stage.
A short stroll away lies Swan Lake—a charming artificial pond framed by leafy trees and welcoming cafés. In warmer months, it’s home to graceful black and white swans, though they were absent in 2022. Whether you’re sipping Armenian coffee beneath the trees or gliding across the lake’s frozen surface in winter, the place offers an oasis of calm.
Vernissage
For a treasure trove of Armenian soul, look no further than Vernissage. This open-air market is the place to find unique souvenirs—handcrafted jewelry, traditional ceramics, vintage items, and masterfully carved wooden backgammon sets. Unlike many flea markets, Vernissage has an orderly charm, with neatly arranged wares and a unified aesthetic. For the best finds and fullest experience, visit on weekends when the market buzzes with life.
Kond District: A Forgotten Chapter of the Old City
To walk through the Kond district is to step back in time. Unlike the storybook old towns of Europe, Kond tells a more rugged tale. Its narrow, broken stone steps wind past crumbling century-old houses and the rusting shells of Soviet-era cars. This is the last remnant of Yerevan as it once was, untouched by the sweeping modernizations of the Soviet period.
Some may find Kond austere, even harsh—but those who seek authenticity will discover a neighborhood where life is lived intimately. Children chase cats through the alleyways, and neighbors play backgammon like family. It’s raw, real, and deeply human.
Tsitsernakaberd: A Pilgrimage to Memory
No visit to Yerevan is complete without a journey to Tsitsernakaberd, the solemn memorial dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Perched above the Hrazdan Gorge, it can be reached on foot—though the climb over the Aghtanak Bridge is steep—or by taxi for around 900 AMD (approximately 233 RUB).
The memorial complex includes a peaceful park, a free-entry museum, and a viewing platform overlooking the city. Inside the museum, photographs and firsthand testimonies of genocide survivors are on display, including accounts referenced by Ernest Hemingway. The exhibits are powerful, often heart-wrenching. To learn more, visit the official museum website before your trip.
Savoring Armenian Cuisine in the Heart of the City
After immersing yourself in the city’s soul, indulge your senses at one of Yerevan’s celebrated traditional restaurants. One beloved spot is Tumanyan Pandok, located at 22 Tumanyan Street. Known for its hearty portions and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it offers a delicious window into Armenian culinary traditions.
Yerevan offers no shortage of culinary and cultural escapes. Whether you’re unwinding with a jazz set at the famous Malkhas Club on 52/1 Pushkin Street, or enjoying a glass of wine at In Vino on 6 Saryan Street, the city ensures your evening will be as rich and flavorful as its heritage.
The Singing Fountains: Nightfall’s Grand Finale
When dusk falls, head to Republic Square for a spectacle of light, water, and sound—the famed Singing Fountains of Yerevan. Located between the History Museum of Armenia and the National Gallery, these fountains come alive in a dazzling display that dances to music under the stars.
Operating daily (except Mondays) from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM without music, the full sound-and-light show begins in April or May and runs through September or October, depending on the weather. Each evening from 8:00 PM until around 10:00 or 11:00 PM, jets of water leap to the rhythms of classical compositions, rock anthems from the ’60s and ’70s, and popular modern songs. The finale is traditionally set to Charles Aznavour’s evocative “Eternal Love.”
To reach Republic Square, take the metro to the station of the same name. Alternatively, buses No. 1 and 33 stop at the “Republic Square” bus stop on Amiryan Street, just across the plaza.