Getting around Armenia
Travelling by road is the primary way to explore Armenia, and the country's compact size makes it easy to cover significant ground in a short time. From Yerevan, most major destinations — including Lake Sevan, Dilijan, Gyumri and Tatev — can be reached within a few hours. The scenery is often spectacular, with winding mountain passes, deep gorges and wide highland plateaus forming part of the journey.
Two particularly scenic routes are worth seeking out. The road from Yerevan to Dilijan via Lake Sevan offers sweeping lake views before climbing into forested hills often referred to as the "Armenian Switzerland". Further south, the route to Tatev Monastery through the Vorotan Gorge provides dramatic canyon landscapes and remote mountain scenery, making it one of the country's most memorable drives.
Fuel stations are widely available along major highways but can be less frequent in remote regions. Road signs are generally in Armenian, with English appearing more frequently on major routes and near tourist sites. Winter weather can affect mountain roads, particularly between December and February.
Road quality in Armenia varies. Major highways linking Yerevan with Gyumri, Sevan and the southern regions are generally in reasonable condition, with ongoing improvements in recent years. However, secondary roads can be uneven, potholed or poorly maintained, particularly in rural and mountainous areas. Lighting outside cities is limited, and livestock or unlit vehicles may present hazards, especially after dark.
Armenia's road network consists of main highways (M roads), regional roads (H roads) and local roads. M roads connect major cities and form the backbone of the national network. H roads link smaller towns and regional centres, while local roads provide access to villages and remote areas. Road numbering is usually signposted, though signage may be inconsistent in more rural regions.
Car hire is available in Yerevan and at Zvartnots International Airport. International rental companies and local agencies operate in the capital. A 4WD vehicle may be advisable for travel to more remote or mountainous areas. Booking in advance is recommended during summer.
Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Traditional taxis can be hailed on the street or booked by phone, though meters are not always used and fares may need to be agreed in advance.
Ride-hailing services are popular in Yerevan and other larger cities. Apps such as Yandex Go and GG are commonly used and provide transparent pricing. These services are generally reliable in urban areas.
Cycling is possible but challenging. Armenia's mountainous terrain, narrow roads and inconsistent surfaces make long-distance cycling demanding. There is little dedicated cycling infrastructure, particularly outside Yerevan. However, experienced cyclists may enjoy scenic highland routes during warmer months.
Domestic coach and minibus services are widely used and connect most towns and cities. Marshrutkas (shared minibuses) operate on fixed routes and are an inexpensive way to travel between regions. Services depart when full rather than to a strict timetable. Larger coaches operate on some intercity routes, particularly between Yerevan and Gyumri. While affordable, comfort standards vary.
Armenia drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 60 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside towns and 110 km/h on certain highways. Seat belts are compulsory for front-seat occupants, and the use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless using hands-free equipment.
The legal blood alcohol limit is effectively zero; drink driving laws are strict and penalties can include heavy fines, licence suspension and vehicle impoundment. Police conduct roadside checks, and fines may be issued on the spot. Drivers must carry identification and vehicle documents at all times.
Roadside assistance is limited outside major cities, and there is no nationwide breakdown service comparable to those in Western Europe. In urban areas, assistance can usually be arranged through local garages. When travelling in rural or mountainous regions, carrying a spare tyre, basic tools and a charged mobile phone is advisable. Car hire companies should provide breakdown assistance for rented vehicles, and travellers are advised to confirm the extent of coverage and emergency contact details before setting off.
Foreign drivers must carry a valid driving licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended and may be required by rental companies. Drivers should also carry their passport, vehicle registration documents and proof of insurance. Vehicles entering Armenia from abroad must have valid insurance, which can be purchased at border crossings if necessary.
In Yerevan, public transport includes buses, trolleybuses and a small metro system. The Yerevan Metro has a single line connecting key districts and is inexpensive and easy to use. Buses and minibuses operate widely but may lack clear route information in English.
Walking is practical in central Yerevan, where many attractions are within short distances. In smaller cities, public transport is more limited and often consists mainly of minibuses.
Domestic rail services are limited but functional. Trains operate between Yerevan and Gyumri, as well as seasonal services to Lake Sevan. Services are affordable but slower than road transport and run infrequently.
Do you have any Feedback about this page?
© 2026 Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission, click here for information on Columbus Content Solutions.
You know where