About the ride from Tbilisi to Yerevan
With cobblestone streets, an ancient history, and food that'll make your mouth water, Tbilisi is an up-and-coming destination for a reason. From the Soviet museums to hipster cafes, this city offers something new for all visitors.
Don't stop your travels here, though! Jump from Tbilisi to Yerevan and explore another iconic capital city in the Caucasus region (between the Black and Caspian Seas).
Yerevan is Armenia's capital, and like Tbilisi, it's home to impressive Soviet-era architecture. However, it's also now home to chic wine bars, pop-up art installations, and a vibrant cafe scene. Perfect for a weekend getaway without crowds of tourists.
To get from Tbilisi to Yerevan, you'll have to travel approximately 169 miles (273 km). You can cross this distance by car, minivan, or plane. The average journey time is around five hours — but we'll give you the lowdown in a moment.
Note that this route crosses an international border. Before you leave, make sure you have your passport and necessary travel documents.
Ready to experience Armenia? Let's do this…
The best things to do in Yerevan
Have you finalized your Yerevan itinerary? No stress if you haven't. Here are some of the best things to do and see while you're in town.
Climb the Cascade. Located in the city's center, the Cascade is a Soviet monument with a big staircase. The staircase takes you to a viewpoint with sweeping views of the area, including nearby mountains.
Visit the Matenadaran Museum. The Matenadaran Museum houses many iconic Armenian manuscripts with the country's unique script and alphabet. You'll also spot a few Latin, Greek, Persian, Hebrew, and Arabic ones.
Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. This cathedral, completed in 2001, is the largest building of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as an official religion (way back in year 301), and there's a lot of history to explore here.
People-watch on Northern Avenue — This pedestrian street goes from the majestic opera house to Republic Square, and it's the place to stroll and take in the atmosphere.
Is it safe to visit Yerevan?
Yes, it is safe to visit Yerevan. Although crime levels are low, there is still a risk of pickpocketing and theft. Keep your valuables and documents secure, and be careful using ATMs after dark.
You should also avoid hailing taxis on the street, as some scam you with high prices. Instead, use the official GG taxi app.
How to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan
The main ways to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan are by car, minivan, and plane. Here's what you need to know about each ride:
By car
Cars from Tbilisi to Yerevan take about five and a half hours. You'll be picked up at Tbilisi airport or your hotel and dropped off at your hotel in Yerevan.
Private bookings and shared cars are available. Toggle the Private Transfer button when booking if you don't want to share your ride.
The most affordable private car costs $143 per car with a two-person minimum.
Cars offer English-speaking staff, large luggage storage, A/C, comfortable seats, chargers, water, and WiFi (subject to availability).
By minivan
Minivans from Tbilisi to Yerevan are a more affordable option. A shared minivan starts at $13 per person.
Private minivans are more expensive, starting at $210 per vehicle. However, this can be split between your traveling party — the more people you have, the less you pay per person.
Minivans take five to six hours to arrive. They usually leave from Tbilisi Airport, Ortachala Bus Station, Tbilisi Isani Mall, or Avlabari Metro Station. They arrive at Kilikia Bus Station or Yerevan Abovyan Street.
Some also provide hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.
Minivan amenities include A/C, English-speaking staff, and large luggage storage. You may also receive water, chargers, and WiFi, but these aren't always available.
By plane
Flights from Tbilisi to Yerevan are the best option if you're short on time. They take 30 minutes to one hour to arrive.
Prices start at $60 per person for plane tickets. Amenities on the plane include A/C and toilets.
You'll leave from Tbilisi Airport and arrive at Yerevan Airport.
Pro tip: In-flight snacks and drinks aren't guaranteed. Eat beforehand to avoid hungry travel!
More details about the trip from Tbilisi to Yerevan
The ride from Tbilisi to Yerevan takes around five hours via road and 30-60 minutes in the sky.
It's critical to remember this is a border-crossing route. You leave Georgia and enter Armenia. Ensure you bring your passport, travel documents, and any necessary visa paperwork.
Organize this before you leave to save stress on the road. Check your government's travel recommendations to know what you need.
Overall, this is a safe journey for all visitors. It's taken by people of all ages, genders, and nationalities, and the airport staff and drivers are very friendly and help where needed.
The best time to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan
The best time to travel from Tbilisi to Yerevan is May to October. During this summer period, you can expect warm days and dry skies.
The hottest months are July and August when temperatures reach 30 to 33°C (86 to 91°F). Bring sunscreen if you're visiting during this time.
The weather is colder from November to April. November, December, January, and February are the coldest months, with temperatures around 4°C/40°F.
It also snows a lot during this period. It's lovely for postcard-perfect winter views but not the most comfortable for sightseeing (unless you're used to the cold).
Where to visit after Yerevan?
Do you have time to spare after Yerevan?
Spend a few days in Vanadzor, the third-largest city in Armenia. This city has a vibrant center filled with cafes and restaurants, plenty of religious sites and museums, and the surrounding area is known for thick forests — ideal if you’re outdoorsy! You can even hike to Tazh Mountain or discover the Arevatsag Canyon.
Yerevan to Vanadzor takes two hours by minivan.