Yerevan Card Including Free 40+ Museums, 5+ Tours & Discounts

Unlock the Best of Yerevan with the Official City Pass for $40

The Yerevan Card provides an affordable and practical way to explore Armenia’s capital. Priced at $40 per person, this pass grants free access to over 40 museums, guided tours, and discounts at restaurants, shops, and attractions. It’s designed for those who want to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of paying at each site, making it a great value for a week-long visit or even for up to a year if kept active.

What really sets this pass apart is its inclusions: free airport transfer, public transportation, a detailed guidebook and city map, and multiple tours, including a city bus tour and a visit to the Ararat brandy company. With 88 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, the Yerevan Card is highly recommended, especially for independent travelers keen to maximize their sightseeing.

While the pass covers most major museums and attractions and offers discounts at local restaurants and shops, it does not include guided museum tours or food and drinks, which is worth considering. The card’s flexibility makes it ideal for both short-term visitors and those planning an extended stay, but it’s most suitable for those comfortable navigating Yerevan independently.

Key Points

• Affordable access to over 40 museums and attractions for just $40
• Free transportation, including an airport transfer and public transit
• Guided tours such as the city bus tour, brandy factory visit, and cultural excursions
• Discounts on dining, shopping, and experiences, plus a free SIM card with internet and maps
• Flexible duration—from 1 day up to 365 days after activation
• Ideal for independent travelers seeking value and convenience

The Yerevan Card: The All-in-One City Pass

The Yerevan Card is a comprehensive pass designed to streamline your visit to Armenia’s vibrant capital. It is valid for a full year after activation, but the hours of free entries are limited based on the specific card type. The main benefit is access to more than 40 museums, including significant sites like Matenadaran, National Gallery, History Museum of Armenia, and Erebuni Museum.

Activation begins when the card is scanned at participating sites or the official office. Once activated, the program countdown starts, giving you the opportunity to visit multiple attractions within the allotted hours. The pass also includes free city tours, such as a double-decker bus ride, and special offers at restaurants. The free transfer to and from the airport adds to its convenience, especially for first-time visitors.

Visiting Yerevan’s Top Museums and Cultural Sites

The Matenadaran presents an impressive collection of ancient manuscripts, registered in UNESCO’s World Network of Memory. It’s a must-see for history buffs interested in Armenia’s literary past. The National Gallery houses around 40,000 items in 55 exhibition halls, offering a broad overview of Armenian and regional art.

The History Museum of Armenia showcases the world’s oldest shoe, dated over 5,600 years old, found in Areni. Visitors also explore archaeological sites like the Erebuni Museum, which reveals Yerevan’s origins dating back to 782 BC—older than Rome by 29 years. The Zvartnots Temple and Garni Temple offer insight into Armenia’s pagan and early Christian architecture, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Unique Experiences at Iconic Religious and Architectural Landmarks

The Garni Temple is the only surviving pagan temple in Armenia, providing a glimpse into ancient religious practices. Close by, the Zvartnots Cathedral features remarkable architecture dating from the 7th century, recognized globally by UNESCO. These sites are significant for their historical and architectural value, and the free entry included with the pass makes visiting them accessible.

The Armenian Genocide Museum is another key stop, offering an important perspective on Armenia’s history, commemorating the events of 1915. The Victory Park and Mother Armenia Statue provide panoramic views of the city and insight into Armenia’s military history.

Exploring Armenia’s Artistic Heritage and Folk Traditions

Art lovers will appreciate stops like the Parajanov Museum, dedicated to the legendary filmmaker Sergei Parajanov, and the Megerian Carpet Museum, showcasing centuries-old Armenian carpet weaving. The Ervand Kochar Museum highlights the avant-garde works of one of Armenia’s prominent modern artists, while the Saryan House Museum displays paintings by the famous Martiros Saryan.

The Folk Arts Museum is ideal for those interested in traditional Armenian crafts, while the Modern Art Museum of Yerevan reveals how Armenian artists responded to socialist realism with modernist works. The Hovhannes Tumanyan Museum celebrates Armenia’s beloved poet, and the Komitas Museum-Institute honors the celebrated composer and ethnologist.

Tours and Excursions: Discover Armenia Beyond Yerevan

The Yerevan Card includes several guided tours that add depth to your experience. The city bus tour provides a rundown of Yerevan’s neighborhoods and landmarks, while the Ararat brandy factory tour offers a taste of Armenia’s famous brandy heritage.

Other included tours like “From Paganism to Christianity” and “Megerian Carpet Rug Museum” deepen understanding of Armenia’s cultural transition and artistic craftsmanship. Some tours, such as those to Garni and Geghard, require prebooking, as noted by the support team.

Family-Friendly Attractions and Free Leisure Activities

For visitors traveling with children or seeking outdoor activities, the Yerevan Zoo and Botanical Garden are free with the pass. The Zoo allows visitors to see local and exotic animals and even feed them, while the Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape with diverse plant collections.

The Victory Park features scenic views and historical monuments, making it a good spot for relaxing. The free scooter ride or bicycle ride offers a fun way to explore the city at your own pace.

Practical Logistics and Important Details

The Yerevan Card starts at 8:00 am and is valid for up to 365 days after activation, though some sites may be closed on Mondays. The card is for individual use only and cannot be transferred or returned once activated.

Most travelers find the best value with a booking around 21 days in advance. The card covers transportation (though public transport is temporarily unavailable at the moment) and includes a free SIM card with internet access. For museum visits, no guide is included, so visitors should plan to explore independently.

Tourists should note that some activities require prebooking; contacting the support team ahead of time ensures smooth scheduling. The free tours can be booked either online or directly at the office on 2 Abovyan street.

Who Will Most Benefit from the Yerevan Card?

This city pass is ideal for independent travelers who want cost-effective access to Yerevan’s museums, attractions, and cultural sites. It suits those who appreciate guided tours and organized excursions but prefer to explore at their own pace. Its comprehensive inclusions and discount offers make it a valuable investment for a week-long stay or longer.

However, those looking for guided museum explanations or planning to dine extensively may need to purchase additional options or pay out of pocket for food and drinks. The flexibility and extensive coverage make the Yerevan Card a standout choice for curious visitors eager to dive into Armenian history and culture.

Final Thoughts on the Yerevan Card

The Yerevan Card offers a cost-effective way to explore Armenia’s capital, combining free museum entries, guided tours, transportation, and discounts all in one pass. The $40 price delivers value for money given the many sites and activities included, especially considering the free accessibility to major attractions like the Genocide Museum, Erebuni Museum, and religious sites.

The reviews confirm that the pass is well-organized and value-packed, with helpful staff and interesting tours. It caters especially to self-sufficient travelers who want a flexible, all-in-one solution to discovering Yerevan’s historical, artistic, and cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yerevan Card valid for a whole year after activation?
Yes, after activation, the card is valid for 12 months, but the hours of free entries are limited based on the card type.

Are guided tours included in the price?
The tours included, like the city bus tour and brandy factory visit, are part of the package, but guided museum tours are not. You can book tours online or at the office.

Does the pass cover transportation?
Yes, it includes free public transportation and airport transfer. However, the public transit is temporarily unavailable at present.

What sites are free to visit with the card?
Most museums, religious sites, parks, and the zoo are free for cardholders. The Botanical Garden is also free.

Can I visit many sites in one day?
Yes, the pacing depends on your preferences, but the hours of free entry should be managed accordingly. The city tour helps plan your day efficiently.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are excluded from the package, but there are discounts at restaurants.

Do I need to pre-book tours?
Some activities require prebooking, especially the tours to Garni, Geghard, and brandy factory, so it’s advisable to coordinate with the support team.

What is the main benefit of the pass?
The cost savings on museum entries, guided tours, and transportation make this pass especially valuable for immersive and flexible exploration.

Are there any restrictions on the card use?
The Yerevan Card is for individual use only and cannot be transferred once activated. It cannot be returned after activation.

Who should consider purchasing the Yerevan Card?
Travelers seeking a comprehensive, budget-friendly way to experience Yerevan’s museums, cultural sites, and tours will find the pass most beneficial.

The Yerevan Card stands as a convenient gateway to Armenia’s capital, offering extensive access and value-packed experiences tailored to curious, independent explorers aiming to maximize their stay.