Things To Do
in Yeghvard

Yeghvard is a small town located in the Kotayk Province of Armenia, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Yerevan. Known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, it offers a serene escape from the bustling capital. The town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains and forests, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Yeghvard is also home to several historic sites, reflecting the cultural heritage of Armenia.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yeghvard
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Yeghvard Church, a beautiful example of medieval Armenian architecture. Enjoy a traditional Armenian breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby ruins of the ancient fortress of Garni, followed by a leisurely hike in the surrounding area to appreciate the stunning views.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can try traditional dishes and enjoy some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning walk through the picturesque streets of Yeghvard, visiting local shops and markets.

afternoon
:

Head to the Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its incredible rock-cut churches.

evening
:

Return to Yeghvard for dinner at a cozy tavern, sampling some local wines and desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🍞Loaf of bread$0.50
🍏1 kg of apples$1
🚕Taxi ride within the town$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Peaceful and less crowded compared to larger cities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Fewer dining choices than in bigger cities
  • Public transportation may be less frequent
  • "Բարև" - Hello
  • "Շնորհակալություն" - Thank you
  • "Ինչպե՞ս եք" - How are you?
  • "Խնդրում եմ" - Please
  • "Որտե՞ղ է զուգարան" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Yeghvard

Visit one of these nice places.

Yeghvard Church

Capture the stunning architecture of this historic church, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Geghard Monastery

A UNESCO site that offers breathtaking views and incredible opportunities for unique architectural shots.

Mount Ararat Viewpoint

A picturesque spot to photograph the majestic Mount Ararat, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yeghvard

Yeghvard offers a delightful array of traditional Armenian cuisine that visitors must try. From hearty stews to sweet pastries, the local food scene reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Yeghvard Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khorovats

Armenian grilled meat skewers, typically made with pork, lamb, or chicken, marinated with spices.

Must-Try!

Dolma

Grapevine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and herbs, served with yogurt.

Lavash

Traditional Armenian flatbread, often served with meals or used to wrap various fillings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yeghvard Food Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, dairy products, and traditional Armenian snacks.

Street Kebab Stalls

Small vendors offering freshly grilled kebabs and other street food delights at affordable prices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yeghvard experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter can drop to -10°C (14°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, mostly occurring in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully.

Greeting Etiquette

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when greeting locals.

Hospitality Norms

Armenians are known for their hospitality; it is polite to accept offers of food or drink.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yeghvard is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as not displaying valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Yeghvard

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants; around 10% of the bill is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available, but credit cards may be less commonly accepted in smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and greenery, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine; ideal for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings.

Autumn

Cooler weather with beautiful fall foliage; a great time for photography and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall; a quieter time ideal for visitors looking for solitude and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Yeghvard at Night

Yeghvard's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities like Yerevan. There are a few local bars and taverns where you can enjoy live music or traditional dance. Most nightlife activities are centered around social gatherings in homes or small venues, providing an intimate atmosphere for enjoying Armenian culture.

Hiking in Yeghvard

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to Garni

This trail takes you from Yeghvard to the Garni Temple, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and landscape.

The Azat River Gorge Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Azat River, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Yeghvard by plane.

Zvartnots International Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Yeghvard, this is the main international airport serving Yerevan and the surrounding region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yeghvard is quite walkable, with many attractions, cafes, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The town features a mix of paved and unpaved sidewalks, but visitors should be cautious of uneven surfaces in some areas. Walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture and scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Armenians

The majority ethnic group in Yeghvard, Armenians are known for their rich cultural heritage and hospitality.

Minority Populations

There are small communities of other ethnic groups, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Armenia, with many local teams and a strong community following.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is celebrated in Armenian culture, with various local competitions held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yeghvard is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town. Public transportation options include shared minibuses (marshrutkas) that connect to nearby cities, while taxis are also available for local travel. Visitors may find walking or cycling to be convenient methods of transportation within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeghvard.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many traditional dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to check with restaurants for specific items.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to inform local chefs of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Yeghvard are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, it's advisable to travel to Yerevan, where larger hospitals and specialized care are available. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Armenia

Read more in our Armenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Armenia Travel Guide