+3 h (Swiss winter time) / +2 h (Swiss summer time)

Yerewan

Official language

Armenian

Language capabilities

Russian and English

220 volt / adapter required for 3-pronged plug

Banks

9 am – 5 pm (Mon – Fri)
Opening hours may vary. Some banks also open on Saturdays, but with shorter hours, for example from 10 am to 1 pm.

Shops

10 am – 9 pm (Mon – Sat)
Opening hours may vary. Many shops also open on Sundays, usually at the same times as on weekdays, for example from 10 am to 9 pm.

• 1 and 2 January: New Year
• 6 January: Christmas
• 27 January: Remembrance Day for those who fell defending the country
• 28 January: Armenian Armed Forces Day
• 8 March: International Women’s Day
• 24 April: Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 9 May: Victory and Peace Day
• 28 May: Republic Day
• 5 July: Constitution Day
• 21 September: Independence Day
• 31 December: New Year’s Evep

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens residing in Switzerland.

• A Swiss passport valid for the entire duration of your stay is required to enter this country.
• No visa is required for stays of up to 180 days.

• Minors: Contact the local authorities to find out about entry formalities for minors. Further information: Travel authorisation for children.

- Information last updated in October 2026 -

Ararat Basin (Yerevan and the surrounding area)

• Summer (June to August): Average temperatures range from 25 °C to 35 °C, with peaks that can exceed 40 °C. The climate is dry and hot, with little rainfall.
• Winter (December to February): Average temperatures range from -5 °C to 5 °C. Winters have a continental character. Frost is common, and pronounced cold spells are also possible in Yerevan.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Average temperatures range from 10 °C to 25 °C. Spring often brings blossoming landscapes, while autumn is mild and dry, ideal for excursions.

High mountains (for example the Aragats massif)

• Summer (June to August): Temperatures range from 10 °C to 20 °C. The high mountains are considerably cooler than the lowlands, and occasional rain is typical.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures often fall below -10 °C, with heavy snowfall. In winter, temperatures at higher elevations can drop to -30 °C. The region is popular for winter sports.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 0 °C to 15 °C. The transitional seasons are cool, and the weather can change quickly.

Northern Armenia (for example the Lori and Tavush regions)

• Summer (June to August): Average temperatures range from 20 °C to 30 °C. Summers are warm, and the region receives more rainfall than other parts of the country, making it greener.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures range from -5 °C to 5 °C.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 10 °C to 20 °C. The transitional seasons are pleasant and rainy, making the region attractive for hiking.

Southern Armenia (for example Vayots Dzor and Syunik)

• Summer (June to August): Average temperatures range from 25 °C to 35 °C. Summers are warm to hot, but the altitude makes the heat less oppressive than in the Ararat Basin.
• Winter (December to February): Winter temperatures vary considerably with altitude. Lower-lying valleys are milder, while mountain regions can experience severe frost and snow.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 10 °C to 25 °C. Spring and autumn offer mild weather with little rainfall and are ideal for exploring nature.

Lake Sevan region

• Summer (June to August): Temperatures range from 15 °C to 25 °C. The highland climate is cooler, and Lake Sevan provides refreshment on hot summer days.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures can drop to -10 °C, with snowfall and cold winds. The lake partially freezes in particularly cold winters.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 5 °C to 15 °C. During these transitional seasons, the climate is cool and windy, especially in spring when the lake is fed by melting snow.

The best time to visit Armenia:

• Beach holidays: Jul – Aug. July and August are particularly suitable for beach holidays at Lake Sevan. Due to the altitude, the water remains relatively cool even in summer.
• City breaks: Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct. In spring and autumn, temperatures in cities such as Yerevan are pleasantly mild and not too hot. These months are also ideal for exploring the sights without large crowds of tourists.
• Winter holidays: Dec – Mar. Depending on snow conditions, the ski season runs from around mid-December to the end of March. Tsaghkadzor is a well-known winter sports destination.

• Mobile phone use: Using a mobile phone in Armenia incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming rates before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a specific roaming package to reduce costs.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is now available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public spaces. Airports and larger railway stations also generally offer free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi quality is often limited in rural areas, and coverage can be patchy in remote regions.
• Prepaid SIM cards: You can buy a prepaid SIM card locally to make local calls and use mobile data. Armenia has several mobile operators, including Viva, Ucom and Team Telecom Armenia. A passport is generally required to purchase a local SIM card.

• Geghard Monastery, Kotayk: A monastery partly carved into the rock, whose main surviving complex dates predominantly from the 13th century. Known for its rock-cut churches and sacred spring. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Garni Temple, Kotayk: A well-preserved pagan temple from the 1st century, regarded as the only Greco-Roman temple in the former Soviet Union. It enjoys a picturesque setting above the Azat Gorge.
• Lake Sevan, Gegharkunik Province: Armenia’s largest lake and one of the world’s largest high-mountain lakes. Particularly popular for beach holidays, water sports and Sevanavank Monastery.
• Khor Virap Monastery, Ararat: An important monastery at the foot of Mount Ararat, famous for its history and spectacular views of the biblical mountain.
• Zorats Karer (Karahunj), Syunik: A prehistoric stone circle often referred to as the “Armenian Stonehenge”, which may have been an ancient astronomical observatory.
• Etchmiadzin Cathedral, Armavir: The principal cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church, built in the 4th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Noravank Monastery, Vayots Dzor: A medieval monastery in a dramatic gorge with red cliffs, known for its impressive architecture and the two-storey Surb Astvatsatsin Church with its narrow exterior stairways.
• Matenadaran, Yerevan: An important manuscript museum and research centre with thousands of valuable Armenian manuscripts from different periods.
• Republic Square, Yerevan: The capital’s central square, surrounded by historic buildings and known for the evening light and music show at its fountains.
• Tatev Monastery, Syunik: A 9th-century monastery perched on a cliff, accessible by the world’s longest reversible aerial tramway, “Wings of Tatev”.
• Amberd Fortress, Aragatsotn: A medieval fortress and church high on Mount Aragats, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
• Cascade Complex, Yerevan: A terraced art and architectural complex with stairways and gardens, displaying modern artworks and offering magnificent views over the city.
• Haghpat Monastery, Lori: A medieval monastery listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
• Jermuk, Vayots Dzor: A popular spa town with hot springs and waterfalls, known for its thermal baths and beautiful natural surroundings.
• Areni-1 Cave, Vayots Dzor: An archaeological site where the world’s oldest known winery was discovered, dating back more than 6,000 years.

• Khorovats (Armenian barbecue): Grilled meat, usually lamb or pork, prepared with vegetables over an open fire. Khorovats is considered a national dish and is often served at celebrations.
• Lavash (flatbread): Thin, traditional flatbread baked in special clay ovens. Lavash forms part of UNESCO cultural heritage and is often served as an accompaniment to various dishes.
• Dolma: Vine leaves or vegetables such as peppers and aubergines stuffed with meat, rice and herbs. These stuffed rolls are a popular starter in Armenian cuisine.
• Harissa: A creamy wheat dish with chicken or lamb, cooked slowly until the ingredients blend together. This dish has historical roots and is traditionally enjoyed in winter.
• Armenian salad: A simple but aromatic salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and herbs. It is often seasoned with salt, pepper and a little oil and is a popular side dish.
• Ghapama: An autumn dish of pumpkin stuffed with rice, nuts, dried fruit and honey. This sweet dish is especially popular during holidays.
• Matzoon (Armenian yoghurt): A traditional yoghurt enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in soups and sauces. Matzoon is considered healthy and particularly rich in probiotics.
• Sujukh and basturma: Sujukh is a spicy dry sausage, while basturma is heavily seasoned, air-dried meat. Both are often served as starters.
• Armenian brandy: Armenia is known for its high-quality brandy, particularly the Ararat brand. Made from local grapes, the brandy is considered an excellent digestif.

• Greetings: In Armenia, handshakes and a friendly smile are common forms of greeting. “Hello” is “Barev”, and “goodbye” is “Tstesutyun”. Kisses on the cheek are also customary when meeting friends or close acquaintances.
• Saying please and thank you: Politeness is appreciated. “Please” is “Khndrum em”, and “thank you” is “Shnorhakalutyun” or simply “Merci”, which is also widely used.
• Clothing: In cities, people generally dress fashionably and neatly. Modest clothing is advisable when visiting churches and monasteries: women should keep their shoulders and knees covered, and men should avoid shorts.
• Dining culture: Meals are an important social tradition. Guests are often treated generously. It is polite to try everything offered and to accept a second helping, as this shows appreciation. Bread is considered sacred and is treated with respect.
• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces in Armenia, such as restaurants, cafés, bars and public transport. Smoking bans also apply in places such as children’s playgrounds and near schools.
• Tipping: Tips are customary in restaurants and cafés. An amount of 10–15 % of the bill is considered appropriate if no service charge is included.
• Other tips: Check in advance whether photography is permitted in churches or at religious ceremonies. Armenians are proud of their culture and history, so respecting local traditions and customs is important. Discussions about politics or the conflict with Azerbaijan should be avoided.

• Drinking water quality: The quality of tap water can vary depending on the location and the condition of the pipes. Travellers are advised to use bottled or adequately treated water, particularly when hygiene conditions are unclear.

• Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are generally mandatory for travellers entering Armenia. However, travellers are advised to keep their routine vaccinations up to date, particularly those against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles. Vaccination against hepatitis A is also recommended.
• Malaria risk: Armenia has been considered malaria-free since 2011. There is no risk of malaria infection, including in rural areas.

• Basic and emergency medical care is only guaranteed in the capital. Hospitals require a financial guarantee before treatment (credit card or advance payment). In the event of serious injury or illness, returning to Switzerland is recommended.
• If you depend on certain medicines, your travel medical kit should contain an adequate supply. However, bear in mind that many countries have special regulations governing the import of medicines containing narcotics (for example methadone) and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign representation (embassy or consulate) directly before departure.

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information about the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• It is uncertain how the current situation in the region will develop. Keep informed through the media and follow the instructions of the local authorities.
• Protests and demonstrations arising from political and economic tensions are possible and may disrupt traffic.
• Despite progress in the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, armed incidents in the border area cannot be ruled out. See the “Specific regional risks” section.
• The risk of terrorist attacks cannot be ruled out in Armenia either.

- Information last updated in October 2026 -

• Driving licence: The Swiss driving licence is recognised. However, it is strongly recommended that you obtain an international driving permit before departure. This is only valid locally together with your national driving licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: In Armenia, the minimum age for hiring a car is generally 21. Some providers may require a minimum age of 23 or 25, depending on the vehicle category. Drivers must also often have at least 1–2 years of driving experience.
• Traffic rules: Drive on the right.
• Mandatory equipment: CH sticker, warning triangle, first-aid kit, fire extinguisher
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.2 ‰. Alcohol should be avoided entirely before driving.

• Long-distance trains: Armenia’s long-distance rail network is limited and mainly connects Yerevan with other cities and neighbouring countries. The main connection is the Yerevan–Tbilisi (Georgia) route, which operates regularly and also offers overnight trains. Trains are slow but provide an inexpensive way to travel.
• Regional trains: Regional rail services operate on selected routes, including between Yerevan and Gyumri, as well as seasonal connections towards Lake Sevan. Buses, minibuses or taxis are needed for many rural and remote destinations. Check current timetables before travelling.
• Buses: Armenia’s bus network is more extensive than its rail network and connects Yerevan with almost all the country’s larger towns and villages. Long-distance buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) are the most common forms of transport and offer an inexpensive and relatively quick way to travel.
• Metro/trams: Yerevan has a single-line metro that mainly connects central and densely populated neighbourhoods. The metro is clean, safe and inexpensive. Tram services in Yerevan were discontinued in 2004 and no longer operate.
• Tickets: In Yerevan, city buses, trolleybuses and the metro use a shared electronic ticketing system. Journeys can be paid for using methods including a reusable transport card or a mobile application. Transport cards are available, for example, at metro stations and Telcell sales outlets. Outside this system, payment methods vary depending on the form of transport.
• Other information: Marshrutkas are a particularly common form of transport in Armenia. These minibuses follow flexible routes, stop on request and are often crowded. However, they offer an authentic experience of everyday life in Armenia. Taxis are inexpensive and a practical alternative for shorter journeys.

Armenia’s main international airport is Zvartnots (EVN), near Yerevan. Another international airport is Shirak (LWN), near Gyumri. Travel from Switzerland generally involves a stopover, for example in Vienna, Frankfurt or Warsaw. Check current connections for your travel dates.

The main airlines operating in Armenia are Armenia Airways, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines.

00 41 (omit the initial zero of the Swiss area code)

• Police, fire brigade and rescue services: 112
• Ambulance: 103

Embassy of Switzerland
Melik-Adamyan Street 2/1
0010 Yerevan
Armenia

Tel.: +374 10 52 98 60
Email: yerevan@eda.admin.ch

The Swiss Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia, is responsible for consular matters. Email: tbilisi@eda.admin.ch.

Specific regional risks

Descriptions of danger zones are approximate; risks cannot be confined to precisely defined areas.

• Border area with Azerbaijan: Travel to the immediate border area with Azerbaijan is discouraged. There is a long-standing conflict with Azerbaijan, particularly around the border regions. In the past, serious military clashes have occurred on several occasions, causing numerous deaths and injuries. Despite the ceasefire, the situation remains tense, and military incidents in the border area cannot be ruled out.

• Switzerland has only limited possibilities, or depending on the situation no possibilities at all, to provide assistance in emergencies. The borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan are closed.

• Road travel between Yerevan and Georgia (or in the opposite direction): The M16-M4 road via Idzhevan runs partly along the border with Azerbaijan. Following isolated exchanges of gunfire in the past, road construction measures have improved the route’s protection from shooting. Nevertheless, increased caution is still necessary on the Idzhevan – Noyemberyan – Georgian border section. Before travelling, ask the local authorities about the current situation at the border with Azerbaijan and follow their advice.

• Border areas with Turkey: The land borders are closed. Parts of the border areas are mined. Keep strictly to frequently used roads and, if in doubt, ask the local authorities and/or local residents for information.

Natural hazards

• Armenia lies in an earthquake zone.

• Heavy rainfall can cause flooding and landslides that damage infrastructure. Travel may also be temporarily disrupted.

• Check weather forecasts and heed warnings and instructions from the local authorities, such as closures and evacuation orders. Further information: Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your family as soon as possible and follow the authorities’ instructions. If communications with other countries are interrupted, contact the Swiss Embassy in Yerevan.

Special legal provisions

• Photographing people in uniform and military facilities is prohibited.

• Violations of drug laws are punishable by several years in prison and heavy fines, even for small quantities and for any type of drug.

• Detention conditions are poor: overcrowded prisons, inadequate sanitary facilities and medical care, and a risk of contracting tuberculosis.