Welcome to Yerevan, the soul and spirit of Armenia and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, founded in 782 BC before Rome! Dubbed the "Pink City" for its stunning buildings made of rosy-colored tuff stone, Yerevan is a city where ancient customs blend with contemporary dynamism, offering its visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Language: The native language is Armenian, which has its own unique alphabet that was created in 405 AD by Mesrop Mashtots. Russian is also widely spoken, and English is being spoken more and more nowadays, especially among the youth. One only needs to know a few Armenian words, like "Barev dzez" (Hello) and "Shnorhakalutyun" (Thank you), to gain some smiles!
Time Zone: Yerevan operates on Armenia Standard Time (AMT), which is UTC +4. Armenia, unlike many nations, does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so no clock changes occur throughout the year.
Free WiFi: Yerevan is a tech-savvy city, and free WiFi is available in cafes, parks, and large public spaces like Republic Square and Northern Avenue. You can connect while enjoying your surroundings.
Voltage: Armenia supplies 230V and 50Hz. It also has the standard European plug types C and F, so if you need to, take an adapter along.
Currency: The official currency is the Armenian Dram (AMD), and you may notice that it features historical figures and cultural personalities on it. Fun fact: Armenia was one of the first civilizations that used coins, right from the 6th century BC!
Credit Card Usage: While credit cards are accepted by major restaurants, hotels, and stores, local markets and smaller businesses prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful, and the money exchange rate is generally in your favor in the city center.
Recommended Money Exchanges: There are money exchanges at the airport, shopping malls, and banks. But for more favorable rates, go to an authorized exchange. One of the famous supermarkets that you can see in the city centers is Sas supermarket (see the locations).
Prices and VAT: Prices in Armenia typically come with a 20% VAT (Value Added Tax) included, and tipping is always appreciated but not obligatory.
Tipping and Service Fees: Tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary, though not obligatory. Some higher-end places may charge a service fee on you
Transport: Yerevan has an extensive public transportation network, we have a new system and new tariffs (you can buy a 10 ride plan or pay with your credit card) with buses, a one-line metro system, and ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go, GG, and UTaxi. The metro built during the Soviet period is not only budget-friendly (price - 150 AMD: 0.37 USD) but also a peek into the nation's past.
Arriving by Air: Zvartnots International Airport (EVN), 12 km from the city center, welcomes travelers with modern amenities. Taxis and ride-sharing are handy, but for low-budget travelers, airport shuttle buses are an affordable alternative.
Shopping hours: 10 AM to 8 PM is standard store and business working time, closing at some point in the day to eat lunch. Supermarkets and large malls operate seven days a week, weekends included.
Local Customs: Armenians are famously hospitable. If invited to someone's home, expect a generous feast! Bringing gifts like sweets, fruit, or flowers is a kind gesture. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained, and standing when an elder enters a room is a sign of good manners.
