Travel tips · Yerevan · Armenia
Yerevan travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
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Quick answer
Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as a state religion, in 301 AD, and the Armenian Apostolic Church remains central to national identity. The Armenian alphabet, created in 405 AD, is a source of pride. Hospitality, toasts and long family meals are key parts of life, and the memory of the 1915 genocide shapes national history.
Key facts
- Language
- Armenian
- Currency
- AMD
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water in Yerevan comes from mountain springs and is widely drunk; pulpulak…
- Emergency
- 911 or 112 (general emergency)
Things to know
- Dress modestly in churches; covering the head is customary for women in some churches but not always required.
- Treat the Genocide Memorial and its history with respect.
- Toasts are an important part of meals; it is polite to join in, even with a non-alcoholic drink.
- Accept offers of coffee or food when visiting homes; refusing outright can seem rude.
- Avoid political debates about neighbouring countries unless your hosts raise them.
- Book Yerevan Brandy Company tour ahead: Tours run at set times and must be booked in advance.
- Use ride-hailing apps rather than street taxis to avoid overcharging.
Tipping
Some restaurants add a service charge of about 10%; otherwise, leaving about 10% is customary. Round up taxi fares and tip guides on day tours.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Barev dzez | Hello (polite) |
| Shnorhakalutyun | Thank you |
| Khndrem | Please / you're welcome |
| Ayo / Voch | Yes / No |
| Inch arzhe? | How much does it cost? |
| Kenats! | Cheers! |
| Hajogh | Goodbye |
What to wear
Casual clothes are fine in the city; carry a scarf for churches. Comfortable shoes help with day trips to monasteries on rocky ground.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water in Yerevan comes from mountain springs and is widely drunk; pulpulak drinking fountains are found all over the city.
- Emergency number
- 911 or 112 (general emergency)
- Phone and internet
- Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés and hotels; local SIM cards are inexpensive and sold at the airport.
- Time zone
- Asia/Yerevan
Yerevan is generally relaxed for visitors. The main risks are fast traffic, summer heat and occasional overcharging by street taxis. Use ride-hailing apps, cross roads carefully and carry water in summer.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Armenia's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Yerevan?
Some restaurants add a service charge of about 10%; otherwise, leaving about 10% is customary. Round up taxi fares and tip guides on day tours.
+Can you drink the tap water in Yerevan?
Tap water in Yerevan comes from mountain springs and is widely drunk; pulpulak drinking fountains are found all over the city.
+What plugs are used in Yerevan?
Type C and F sockets, 220 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Yerevan?
Armenian.