Unique, with a rich history and culture, Russia has long fallen in love with Russian tourists. Here you can endlessly admire the natural landscapes, examine the architecture preserved from different times and enjoy the local cuisine.
For those who are going to visit the country for the first time, we advise you to start your acquaintance with one of the oldest cities in the world - Yerevan.
Is it worth going on vacation to Yerevan
According to tourists' reviews about their vacation in Armenia, visiting the country leaves an indelible impression and a desire to return. Visitors are fascinated by the hospitality of the locals, the beauty of nature, as well as the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of the metropolis. So, at Vinsky's forum, they talk about Armenia as a poor country, but at the same time beautiful, friendly and “tasty” (OSA3030, newbie, 28.12.2017, topic “To Armenia in December”).
The Armenian capital, founded in 782 BC, deserves special attention. and showing from the beginning of the 20th century. spiritual and cultural center. A special charm to the largest city in the country (more than 1 million people) is added by the chain of the Caucasus Mountains framing the urban areas and the harmonious combination of antiquity with developed infrastructure.
Due to tense Armenian-Azerbaijani relations and the Covid pandemic, many Russians are postponing travel to Armenia. However, as the Armenian authorities assure, military actions on the border of the two states do not pose a threat to the guests and residents of Yerevan. This fact confirms the existence of direct flights between Russia and Armenia.
In order to move freely around the Armenian capital in November-December, Russian tourists upon arrival are required to take a test for Covid-2019 (or observe a two-week self-isolation). Due to the constantly changing situation, we recommend checking the information on the website of the Armenian Embassy in Russia armconsul.ru or by phone. +7 (495) 624-32-43 (from 15-00 to 17-00).
Important
Currently, tourists from Russia can only get to Armenia by plane. It is prohibited to cross the land border.
View of Mount Ararat | Photo by Gevorg Avetisyan
Pros and cons of staying in Yerevan
In reviews about their holidays in Yerevan, travelers often talk about such advantages of the trip, how:
- visa-free entry into the country;
- low crime rate;
- road safety (observance of speed limits by drivers);
- quality natural products;
- low cost of food;
- inexpensive public transport (100 AMD / about 16 rubles by metro and minibus, 50 AMD / about 8 rubles by trolleybus);
- favorable climate;
- most of the population speaks Russian;
- the scenic beauty of the area, the presence of ancient architecture;
- lack of beggars on the streets.
However, reviews about Armenia, and Yerevan in particular, mention such unpleasant nuances, how:
- insufficiently high service in restaurants and hotels;
- a common deception in the taxi industry (the final cost of the trip differs from the one announced at the time of boarding);
- the presence of vipers, tarantulas and scorpions (you have to be careful while walking in the mountains and steppes);
- widespread smoking (non-smokers have to eat at outdoor tables to avoid smoke in the premises);
- gas pollution of the capital.
In general, Russians are satisfied with the trip to Yerevan (Armenia), and the reviews of tourists for 2021 are proof of this. So, on the site “Otzovik»User Indiya (09.07.2020) enthusiastically describes his travel impressions: “This trip, like a first love, lives in my soul with a bright and warm memory and is steadfastly associated with youth, fun, beauty, romance :-)».
One of the viewing platforms in Yerevan | Photo by Sevak
Reviews about beach holidays in Yerevan
When choosing a destination for travel, beach lovers often wonder if there is a sea in Armenia. The country has no outlet to sea waters, but this does not mean that local residents do not have the opportunity to swim and sunbathe.
The pearl of the country is Lake Sevan. The blue, slightly undulating water surface, surrounded by mountainous landscapes, delights even the most inveterate travelers. On travel sites, you can find a lot of laudatory reviews about seaside vacations in Armenia (in the country Sevan is usually called the "Armenian sea"). So, Vera-Don on the site "Otzovik»Describes the lake as "A miracle of nature, adjacent to the sky, hidden in the mountains ..." and lists its advantages: "a magnificent view, stunning air, delicious fish from the lake, a place of relaxation" (28.02.2020).
The reservoir is 50 km away from the capital. Despite the fact that travel agents answer the question “Is there a sea in Yerevan” negatively, they always have something to offer in return - a trip to Lake Sevan. This is one of the best places to relax in Armenia in summer. You can come here as part of one-day excursions, or on your own by booking a hotel room. There are umbrellas with sun loungers on the coast, restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops (according to tourists, prices are very high), there are areas for children, viewing platforms with breathtaking views are available. Gastronomic gourmets are recommended to use the opportunity and try the famous Sevan trout ishkhan.
Important
Those planning a beach vacation in Armenia with small children should keep in mind that in summer the high-mountainous lake does not get warmer above 18 degrees, and the air is 25. It is also often windy.
Night city | Photo by Levon Vardanyan
Reviews of excursions and attractions
In the reviews left about Yerevan (the original name is Erivan), tourists note the unique appearance of the central city part. Most of the buildings here are built of pink tuff, so locals informally refer to the capital as a pink city.
Popular attractions:
- Republic square with the historical museum of Armenia and singing fountains located on it;
- Mesrop Mashtots Avenue with the Blue Mosque, the Matenadaran Museum and the Central Market;
- Tigran the Great Avenue with the Cathedral and the monument to David of Sasun;
- Big Hrazdan Bridge;
- Haghtanak park with walking alleys and picturesque Arevik lake;
- market "Vernissage";
- Yerevan Zoo;
- the famous architectural structure Cascade with panoramic views of the city and Ararat.
For your information
Ararat is a symbol of Armenia, however, geographically, the mountain belongs to Turkey.
In their reviews of their holidays in Armenia, tourists are advised to take small excursions around the city in order to get acquainted with the rich historical heritage of Yerevan. On the Tripster.ru website, you can find 2-hour guided walks, 4-5-hour acquaintances with the Christian shrines of the capital, trips to natural sites, etc.
Men prefer to combine their vacation in Yerevan with a visit to the Ararat and Noy brandy factories.
Useful materials:
- The main sights of Yerevan
- TOP interesting places in Armenia
Holiday souvenirs in Armenia | Photo by Hasmik Ghazaryan Olson
Reviews about hotels in Yerevan, which ones to choose
In their reviews of Yerevan, travelers recommend staying in the center of the capital: in the areas of Abovyan, Nalbandyan, Tumanyan streets, Mashtots avenue, near Freedom Square, the Opera House or Republic Square. We recommend several options for comfortable accommodation in this location with high ratings on the Booking.com website (above 9 points out of 10).
City Central Apartment
Inexpensive apartments (about 2,500 thousand per night) are located within walking distance from the metro station, main attractions and the Central Market. You can eat both in the room, which is equipped with a kitchen, and in restaurants located right in the building and next to it. Detailed description and prices on the Booking website.
Apartment Agatangeghos
Economy option for budget accommodation in the center: the cost per day is 1500 rubles. The windows offer picturesque views of the city and mountains.Rooms are equipped with everything necessary for self-catering. Details about housing.
Grand Hotel Yerevan - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
For 6,500 rubles. per day, guests can relax in the rooftop pool, visit the spa center with sauna, solarium and gym. According to tourists' reviews, many people like the amazing cafe next to the hotel, where you can have a delicious breakfast and dinner overlooking the square and the fountain. Great staff with smiles and friendliness, cleanliness in everything. The hotel fully complies with five stars, with the exception of a small minus - it is located a little away from the tourist trails. Detailed description and cost.
The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Yerevan
The five-star hotel will suit connoisseurs of a comfortable stay, who are ready to pay for a luxurious environment and the highest level of service. The cost of a daily stay in suites is 25 thousand. The hotel's infrastructure includes 4 acknowledged restaurants, an indoor pool and a spa. Information about the hotel.
Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan
A budget alternative to The Alexander Hotel (12,000 rubles). The interior of Golden Palace is made in Italian classic style, rooms are equipped with hot tubs and coffee machines, there is a rooftop bar and restaurant, and there is a fitness center. Car rental is available. All information on the Booking website.
View from the room of Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan
Weather reviews, when is the best time to go
According to the reviews of tourists about the rest in Yerevan, for walking and sightseeing, you should plan a trip in the spring (end of April, May) and September. At this time, comfortable warm weather sets in: the air warms up to 20-25 ° С, and there is little precipitation (there are up to 2 rainy days per month). The beginning of autumn is the ideal time for connoisseurs of natural beauty to visit Armenia: the city's surroundings are acquiring beautiful crimson and golden hues. In October, the rainy season begins, and with it the outflow of tourists.
Summer months are not suitable for those who do not tolerate the 30-40-degree heat, but beach lovers will love the clear sky and calmness. They start swimming in Armenia at the end of July (to September); since that time, stable dry weather has been established in the capital.
Armenia is characterized by unpredictability in winter, and climatic conditions in December-February vary from year to year. The lowest temperatures are set in February (+2 ° C during the day, -6 at night). Sometimes the winter capital disappoints with cold, grayness and fog, but it can also please with clear and sunny days. It should be borne in mind that the weather in different parts of Yerevan is different in winter. As Vinsky Kigor writes at the forum (30.09.2018, topic “To Armenia in December”), in the center, as a rule, it is a couple of degrees warmer than in areas close to Lake Sevan; in Garni in December it is windy and uncomfortable, in Geghard (in the lowland) it is more comfortable.
How about a gastro trip to Armenia? Photo by Gor Davtyan
Tips and nuances of a trip to Yerevan on your own
Having studied the reviews of tourists about a trip to Armenia by car, we have made a number of recommendations. They will help to avoid unpleasant situations associated with ignorance of the peculiarities of a foreign country.
- It is necessary to choose the right season.
Independent travelers do not recommend April and October trips to Yerevan by car: reviews contain frequent references to heavy rains during this period. In the summer months there are traffic jams on the M4 Don highway. The optimal time is September, May.
- You should stock up on cash.
Local gas stations (no well-known brands) do not accept plastic cards. We take small currency.
- Insurance is required.
To avoid fines, seasoned travelers are advised to have insurance before entering Armenia. So, in his review on www.drive2.ru IvanDyomin indicates that one of the most convenient ways is to register an EOCAGO through the website of the insurance company online.ingoarmenia.am.
- It is advisable to have a video recorder.
As drivers write, traffic policemen love to "catch" at speeding; the presence of a registrar's record will help in controversial situations.
Important
Do not forget that at the moment land borders are closed, so be sure to check the latest information on the embassy's website before traveling.
A trip to Yerevan is an opportunity to get acquainted with the original country and its people, taste traditional dishes, see picturesque natural landscapes and ancient architecture.
