One of the world’s oldest cities, built in rose-coloured stone. Here is how a local spends a perfect two days in the Armenian capital.
Yerevan is older than Rome — founded as the fortress of Erebuni in 782 BC — yet it wears its age lightly. Rebuilt in the 20th century from local pink volcanic tuff, it glows at sunset, buzzes after dark, and rewards travellers who slow down to its rhythm. Two days is enough to fall for it.
Day one: the heart of the city
Begin at Republic Square, the pink-and-cream centre of Yerevan, then walk up to the Cascade — a vast limestone stairway of fountains and modern sculpture with Mount Ararat framed at the top. Spend the late morning at the Matenadaran, the extraordinary repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts, before lunch on Northern Avenue.
In the afternoon, tour the Ararat Brandy Factory — the cellars where the drink Churchill adored is still aged — then join the evening promenade as the whole city comes out to watch the musical fountains play on Republic Square.
Day two: memory and market
Start with the sobering, essential Tsitsernakaberd genocide memorial and its museum — a quiet, important morning. Lift the mood afterward at the GUM market, a riot of dried fruit, spices, cheese and cheerful vendors who will insist you taste everything.
The trick to Yerevan is the second coffee. Sit down, order it, and let the city introduce itself.
Spend your last afternoon at the Vernissage open-air craft market (weekends are best) hunting for carpets, khachkar carvings and silver, then climb Victory Park to stand beneath the giant statue of Mother Armenia and watch the sun set behind Ararat.
Where to eat
- Lavash or Sherep for polished modern Armenian cooking.
- Tumanyan Khinkali for cheap, joyful dumplings.
- Any tiny place with a tonir oven in the window — follow the smell of fresh bread.
- A rooftop bar on Northern Avenue for a brandy with an Ararat view.
Short on time? Our three-day Yerevan Classic Highlights tour pairs the best of the city with day trips to Garni, Geghard and Khor Virap — the perfect introduction to Armenia if the capital is all your schedule allows.