City Getaway in the Caucasus: Yerevan
Thanks to our extensive network of colleagues at airports spanning from Central Europe to Central Asia, Euro Jet has the best travel tips for this part of the world. Since sharing is caring, we could not keep all the wonderful local travel recommendations to ourselves.
The Caucasus countries have patiently waited for the hot continental summer weather to cool down and now, as autumn arrives, are ready to welcome visitors eager to explore this not-so-well-known region. Their capital cities are a bit of a mystery to many travelers, and so we asked our local experts for an introduction.
First in line, Yerevan and the travel tips carefully selected by Euro Jet’s Ground Service Coordinator stationed at Yerevan airport, Sergey Barikyan.
What to See
Yerevan’s Top 5 Gems
With history dating back 2,800 years, Yerevan is one of world’s oldest cities – even older than Rome! This spectacular city located on the Hrazdan River is both the administrative and cultural center of Armenia. Its amazing architecture, delicious cuisine, and bustling nightlife make it a wonderful weekend getaway worthy of exploration.
The oval-shaped Republic Square is the veritable heart of Yerevan and the number one must-see for every visitor. Built in the 1920s, it is dominated by beautiful singing water fountains surrounded by magnificent pink and yellow buildings with Armenian motifs.
The Cascade Complex is one of those places which impresses with amazing views from both top and bottom. Even before you climb the 572 steps leading up to the top, you will need a moment to admire this architectonical gem designed by Alexander Tamanyan. You can then venture inside the Cascade as it houses the Cafesijan Center of the Arts.
For some more history and culture, visit the UNESCO-protected Matenadaran, a.k.a. the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts. Preserving the history of Armenia in the written form, it stores over 20,000 manuscripts from the period between 405 A.D. when the Armenian alphabet was created up until the 18th century.
For some proper souvenir shopping, head over to the 350-meter-long open-air Vernissage Flea Market. If you are looking to buy traditional Armenian arts and crafts, jewelry, books, or carpets – you will find it here.
Finally, no visit to Yerevan is complete without a stop at the Ararat Brandy Factory. Not only can you tour its museum, but a tasting of the famous Armenian brandy awaits at the end of your visit.
Euro Jet in Armenia
If you are flying private, Euro Jet will be happy to offer premium ground support at both Yerevan (UDYZ/EVN) and Gyumri (UDSG/LWN) airports. Led by Marina Abdushkureva, Euro Jet’s Regional General Manager, our local Ground Service Coordinators, Sergey Barikyan and Yegor Gasparyan are ready to assist with your flights to Armenia.
Recommended: A Day Trip from Yerevan
Feeling adventurous to discover the city’s surroundings? There are plenty of options but here are our top 3 tips.
First, the Khor Virap Monastery is a magnificent sight dating back to the 7th century and is just 40 minutes from Yerevan. Located in the Ararat Plain, it boasts stunning views of Mount Ararat, the famous snow-capped volcano towering up to 5137 meters.
If your idea of time well spent is with a glass of wine in your hand and delicious food in front of you, then the Voskeni Vineyard is the perfect destination for you. Located a one-hour drive west of Yerevan in the Ararat Valley, the family-owned winery offers a tour of the vineyard accompanied by lunch and a tasting of their internationally renowned white, red, and rose wines.
If you have a bit more time on your hands, two hours north of Yerevan lies the beautiful city of Gyumri. Its Kumayri Historic District is full of charming wooden houses, cobblestoned streets, and vibrant colors. On Gyumri’s outskirts, the Sev Berd or Black Fortress is a unique 360-degree round shaped fortress made of black stone providing wonderful views of the city.
What to Taste
Armenia and Yerevan have plenty of culinary delights to offer and your city getaway could very easily turn into a foodie tour. From the many options, lavash, dolma, and gata are the three things you should definitely not miss out on during your stay.
Lavash is a simple, yet delicious thin bread made from flour, salt, and water. It is so integral to the Armenian culture that in 2014 it was even inscribed into the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural heritage!
Dolma, another treasure of Armenian cuisine, is grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices. And for those of you who have a sweet tooth, gata is a buttery traditional pastry served either as an appetizer or as a dessert with coffee and tea.
If you are curious about the Armenian cuisine with a modern twist, the Lavash restaurant in the heart of Yerevan will offer an amazing dining experience.
Where to Stay
The ultimate decision in all travel planning and often the key to a perfect stay – accommodation. The Alexander Hotel is one of the best choices in Armenia’s capital. It is conveniently located in the very center of Yerevan and offers a top quality spa as well as fine dining.
We look forward to welcoming you to Yerevan!
Images: Euro Jet Archive, Shutterstock
