You might be asking, "Where is Yeravan?" That was my exact question when I was googling a weekend getaway that was under four hours away.
Yerevan is the capital of Armenia and is only a 3 hour flight from Qatar. Zvartnots Airport is newly built and arrival and departure was smooth and staff were friendly. Having traveled Business class it probably speeded up the process.
Armenia is a landlocked country on the crossroad between Europe and Asia. It is a former Soviet republic and is situated in southeastern Europe/western Asia, east of Turkey, north of Iran and south of the mountainous Caucasus region (Transcaucasia). It is also bordered by Azerbaijan and Georgia.
What we had time to see in Yerevan in 2 days
- Cascade Complex
The Cascade Complex was so inviting so it was our first stop, well it was actually 572 steps to the top. There are indoor elevators which was great and saved us the walk up, but we did walk down and enjoyed the views!
In short, the Yerevan Cascade is a giant staircase located in the center of the city and it is one of the main tourist attractions in Yerevan. The massive structure connects the city center with the upper parts of Yerevan: Victory Park, Arabkir and Kanaker-Zeytun.
The Memorial at the top is of the 50th anniversary of Soviet Armenia. This is one of the most impressive buildings you will see in Yerevan and a great example of Soviet architecture in Yerevan.
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- Vernissage Market
Armenian folk art, unique jewellery, handmade pieces, craftmanship - an amazing market unlike ones I have visited. It was an unexpected find, although we had planned the visit, it was really unsual and unexpected. I'll go back for the handcrafted jewellery and beautiful chandeliers and artwork if I am able to.
- Night life
The best part of the trip was our unexpected find, the Kami Club.
A meal, a cocktail (or two) and fantastic entertainment. Entertained by a local Armenian group, including the traditional Armenian Duduk instrument.
We did most of our exploring on foot and we felt absolutely safe doing that, even at night. The locals are helpful and most of the younger generation speak Englilsh.
- Coffee shops and wine bars
What's not to love! Armenians love their coffee and wine, and you are sure to find both everywhere in Yerevan.
Aremenian wines are of the best I've tasted, and I think exploring the wine routes and wine regions would be interesting, but that is for my next trip to Armenia, I have to go back and explore more.
- Armenian food
We are not big foodies but we did try traditional dumpling dish, filled with meat, as well as lamb chops with roasted potatoes, which was very tasty.
To eat, pick up with your hand holding the small end, then bite a small hole and drink the soup liquid from inside. Enjoy the rest of the dumpling filled with tender meat. I admit it's not was not my favourite, nevertheless was a different experience and flavoursome.
Why I will go back to visit Armenia
- great food
- wine region
- markets
- low prices
- and to explore the rest of Armenia now that I've been to Yerevan
