Things to do in  Yerevan

Bustling Republic Square is in the heart of downtown Yerevan. It’s surrounded by neoclassical buildings, including the History Museum of Armenia and the National Gallery of Armenia. A popular gathering spot, the square serves as a literal watering hole: It’s home to the Singing Fountains, which play music and perform a colorful light show every night in summer.

This giant, multi-tiered staircase is one of Yerevan’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s a popular spot for people-watching or to climb the 572 steps to the top—on clear days, views stretch all the way to snow-capped Mt. Ararat. The Yerevan Cascade is also home to the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, an Armenian art museum and sculpture garden with free admission.

Home to one of the world’s largest collections of manuscripts, Matenadaran name (Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts) is both a museum and a research institution. It boasts thousands of old printed books, illuminated manuscripts, and other rare documents, plus an online database. The museum is one of Yerevan’s top attractions for tourists and scholars alike.

Located on the slopes of Mt. Teghenis in the ski resort of Tsaghkadzor, this armchair ropeway leads you to a summit overlooking the rolling hills of northern Armenia. Standing at more than 2,800 meters (9,200 feet), on clear days the summit gives you a glimpse of Mt. Ararat, the snow-capped mountain that’s the symbol of Armenia.

Located on a hill overlooking Yerevan, the Armenian Genocide Museum and adjoining Tsisernakaberd Memorial pay tribute to the 1.5 million Armenians killed during the Armenian Genocide under the Ottoman Empire. Entrance is free since the goal is to spread awareness of a genocide still denied by some governments. The expansive complex is a popular—and poignant—stop for Armenians and visitors alike.

The global brand, served in more than 50 countries worldwide, started in Armenia at the end of the 19th century. With its vintage lettering visible from many parts of downtown Yerevan, this historic brandy factory is a bonafide landmark and represents a piece of the city’s history. Come to the Ararat Museum to see how the iconic liquor is made.

Established back in Soviet times in 1935, this botanical garden still offers a quiet refuge from Yerevan’s hustle and bustle. Part of the Armenian Academy of Sciences, it boasts a wide-ranging collection of trees, medicinal species, and other plants from all over Armenia and the former USSR. On clear days, the garden also has views of distant Mount Ararat.

Contrary to its romantic name, Yerevan’s Lovers' Park is popular with couples, families, friends, and individuals. Pathways, ponds, and beautifully manicured flowers provide an ideal setting for leisurely strolls and picnics. In addition to serving as one of locals’ favorite parks, it also acts as a venue for local events.

Yerevan’s top location for one-stop shopping, this multi-floor complex boasts over 200 stores and branded boutiques. Expect a mix of local and international brands, including heavyweights like Mango and Zara, and a Carrefour supermarket. It’s also home to an indoor playground and amusement center for kids—Captain Kid’s—as well as a movie theater showing films in 4K.