Is Yerevan Safe?

Yerevan is the capital of Armenia and it is a fascinating and vibrant city full of energy and culture. But when it comes to safety and security, many visitors have some questions regarding what they can expect when they are in Yerevan. Is Yerevan safe? As the largest and busiest city in the country, it’s important to know the facts about being safe in Yerevan and how to stay out of harm’s way.

Yerevan is generally considered a safe city. The crime rate is lower than in many other cities and visitors are unlikely to encounter any serious dangers during their stay. Nevertheless, taking some extra precautions and using common sense is still wise when traveling in any city. Here’s what you need to know about staying safe and secure in Yerevan.

Be Aware of Pickpocketing

Yerevan is a safe place overall, but there are some areas of the city that can be dangerous, and pickpocketing can be an issue in some neighborhoods. So be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave any personal belongings in plain sight or unattended. Additionally, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and be mindful of suspicious people who might be interested in your valuables.

Keep Your Distance from Touts and Street Vendors

While touts and street vendors can be generally annoying and persistent, it’s best to keep your distance in Yerevan as they’re known to take advantage of unsuspecting or naive tourists. The tricksters will often ask for money for services that were not requested, so it’s best to stay clear of them if possible.

Stay Away from Unsafe Areas and People

Yerevan has several districts that are relatively unsafe, so it is best to avoid those areas. Some of these areas to avoid include Davtashen, Erebuni, Nubarashen and Arabkir. Additionally, do not feel pressured to enter any buildings that you don’t immediately feel comfortable in or around people who seem shady. It is best to keep a low profile and stick to well-lit areas at night as a precautionary measure.

Trump the Language Barrier with a Guide

Although most Armenians speak at least basic English, it can still be difficult to communicate in certain situations if a language barrier presents itself. To avoid these scenarios, visitors can always hire a private guide or driver who will be able to help with any communication difficulties or transportation needs.

Overall, Yerevan is a great city to visit with relatively low security risks. Being aware of one’s surroundings and using common sense while traveling is always the smart thing to do in any city. It pays to know the facts about staying safe in Yerevan and how to enjoy the city without inviting unwanted trouble. Wikivoyge’s guide on staying safe in Yerevan provides an extensive overview on what travelers should know before they visit so that they can enjoy their time in the city with minimum fuss.

Insider’s Guide to Yerevan: A Safe and Fascinating Destination

Yerevan is the capital and the largest city of Armenia, situated in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. As the country’s cultural, political, and economical hub, it boasts a rich blend of history, culture, arts, and tradition. While some tourists still wonder, “Is Yerevan safe?” the city is one of the safest destinations in the region, with friendly locals, low crime rates, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Explore the Local Attractions

The city has a rich cultural heritage with several landmarks, museums, and monasteries to explore. The Cascade is an enormous limestone stairway with stunning views of Mount Ararat and the surrounding valley. The Matenadaran Museum has the world’s largest collection of ancient Armenian manuscripts, with over 17,000 exhibits. The History Museum of Armenia is a must-visit for history buffs, with artifacts and exhibits that take you through Armenia’s history, from prehistoric times to the present.

Sample the Local Cuisine

Yerevan has an outstanding selection of traditional Armenian food that you can try in various cafes and restaurants. Khorovats, meaning grilled meat, is a staple that you must try, typically made of pork, lamb, chicken, or beef. Lavash, a soft, thin Armenian bread, is a must-try as well. Other traditional dishes include dolma (stuffed grape leaves), khash, and ghapama (pumpkin dish). You can also explore the city’s famous street food scene with options such as shawarma, falafel, and Armenian pizza.

Experience the Local Culture

Tourists interested in experiencing local culture can take a stroll around the bustling Vernissage flea market, where you can buy traditional handmade goods, such as carpets, jewelry, and musical instruments. Yerevan is also famous for its jazz scene, and bars such as Malkhas Jazz Club and Mezzo Jazz Club offer live music on most nights. Armenian folk music is also a unique experience, with traditional instruments such as the duduk or zurna.

Delve into Local History

Yerevan is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 2800 years. The city has witnessed battles, rulers, and empires, each having left their mark and contribution to Yerevan’s history. The Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, located on Tsitsernakaberd Hill, is a historical and cultural center dedicated to the memory of the Armenian Genocide victims. Additionally, Erebuni Fortress, built in 782 BC, was once the main settlement of the ancient Urartu Kingdom and a must-visit site for tourists interested in ancient history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For the more adventurous tourists who want to explore Yerevan beyond the typical tourist attractions, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions. One of the best panoramic views of the city is from the observation deck at the Victory Park, located on the slopes of the hills. Another option is taking a ride on the Yerevan Metro, one of the oldest and most beautiful metro systems in the world, dating back to 1981. Hrazdan Gorge is a peaceful natural attraction, offering picturesque walks and scenic views of nature’s beauty.

Overall, Yerevan is much safer than many perceive it to be, and it is a fascinating destination with much to offer. Whether you want to experience local culture, sample traditional food, delve into history or explore ancient architecture, Yerevan has much to offer, and this insider’s guide will help you navigate this bustling ancient city with ease.