Driving in Armenia: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national license for stays over 30 days.
• Road Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas like Yerevan, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.08%.
• Road Conditions: Main roads are decent, but rural routes, like those to Tatev, can be rough and winding. Winter driving (December-February) may require snow tires.
• Parking: Parking in Yerevan is regulated—use paid lots or metered spots. Free parking is common in smaller towns like Dilijan.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited—carry a spare tire.
• Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit the Armenian Government website.

Currency in Armenia: Using the Armenian Dram for Your Trip

• Armenian Dram: Armenia uses the Armenian Dram (AMD). Coins come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 drams; notes in 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 drams.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or exchange offices in Yerevan for better rates. Avoid street vendors.
• Payment Methods: Cards are widely accepted in Yerevan, but cash is king in rural areas like Garni. Always have small denominations for markets.
• ATMs: ATMs are plentiful in Yerevan—look for banks like HSBC or Ameriabank. Fees may apply for international cards.

Legal Guide to Armenia: Laws Travelers Should Know

• Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public drunkenness may result in fines—drink responsibly.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Armenians are warm but conservative—dress modestly at religious sites like Etchmiadzin. More in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
• Photography Restrictions: Avoid photographing military sites or border areas, especially near Azerbaijan, due to ongoing tensions.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection should be discreet. Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces—use designated areas.
• Customs Rules: You can bring up to 2 liters of alcohol and 400 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000 (or equivalent) when entering or leaving.
• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the Armenian police at +374 10 370 263.

Travel Safety in Armenia: Staying Safe on Your Trip

• Crime in Armenia: Armenia has low crime rates. Petty theft is rare but possible in crowded areas like Yerevan’s Vernissage market—keep your belongings secure.
• Road Safety: Roads can be narrow and poorly lit outside Yerevan. Drive cautiously, especially on routes to remote monasteries like Tatev.
• Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water is safe in Yerevan but opt for bottled water in rural areas. Sunburn is a risk at high altitudes—use sunscreen.
• Natural Hazards: Armenia’s climate brings hot summers (up to 35°C) and cold winters (-5 to 5°C). Earthquakes are a risk—familiarize yourself with safety procedures.
• Medical Facilities: Yerevan has good hospitals like Nairi Medical Center. Pharmacies are widely available—look for “Dեղատուն” (pharmacy) signs.
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. For border-related concerns, check travel advisories due to tensions with Azerbaijan.
• Public Transport Safety: Marshrutkas are safe but can be crowded. Taxis in Yerevan are reliable—use apps like GG or Yandex Go for fair pricing.

Culture & Etiquette in Armenia: What to Know

• Greetings: Armenians are hospitable—greet with a handshake and “Barev” (Hello in Armenian). Close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek.
• Dining Customs: If invited to an Armenian home, expect a feast—bring a small gift like sweets. Toasting is common; try to join in with a short toast.
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly at churches like Etchmiadzin—women should cover their heads, and men should avoid shorts.
• Festivals: Vardavar in summer is a fun water festival where locals splash each other. Yerevan Wine Days in May celebrate local wines with street events.
• Language Tips: Armenian is the official language, but Russian is widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas—learning “shnorhakalutyun” (thank you) is appreciated.
• Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated—around 10% in restaurants in Yerevan. In rural areas, it’s less common.

Local Cuisine in Armenia: Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

• Khorovats: Armenian barbecue, typically made with pork or lamb, served with grilled vegetables.
• Dolma: Grape leaves wrapped around a filling of meat or rice, a staple at Armenian feasts.
• Lavash: Thin, soft flatbread, often baked in a traditional tonir (clay oven).
• Armenian Wine: Pair your meal with local wines from regions like Areni, known for their rich flavors.
• Tan: A refreshing yogurt drink, perfect for hot summer days.
• Where to Eat: In Yerevan, Lavash Restaurant offers traditional dishes in a modern setting. For a rustic experience, try Gata Tavern in Garni—both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Armenia: Must-Visit Places

• Geghard Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site, partially carved into a cliff, known for its medieval architecture. Book a guided tour on Tiqets.
• Tatev Monastery: A 9th-century monastery reachable by the Wings of Tatev cable car, offering stunning views. Get your cable car tickets on Tiqets.
• Lake Sevan: Known as the “Jewel of Armenia,” this high-altitude lake is perfect for swimming and picnics. Book a lake tour on Tiqets.
• Armenian Genocide Memorial (Tsitsernakaberd): A poignant site in Yerevan commemorating the 1915 genocide. Entry is free, but guided tours are available on Tiqets.
• Etchmiadzin Cathedral: The “Vatican of Armenia,” this is one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Book a cultural tour on Tiqets.
• Garni Temple: A well-preserved 1st-century Hellenistic temple, offering a glimpse into pre-Christian Armenia. Reserve your visit on Tiqets.
• Dining Spots: In Yerevan, Lavash Restaurant serves authentic khorovats and dolma in a modern ambiance—reservations recommended. For a traditional meal near Garni Temple, Gata Tavern offers homemade lavash and tan in a cozy setting.

Flights to Armenia: Travel Options

Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan is the main entry point, with flights from cities like Moscow, Paris, and Dubai. Taxis or shuttles from the airport to central Yerevan take about 20 minutes.

Create Your Packing List for Armenia