Passport and visa
Since 10 January 2013, EU citizens and members of the Schengen countries do not require a visa for Armenia. The citizens of these states may travel without a visa in Armenia for 180 days per year with a passport valid for at least six months. Those who wish to stay in Armenia longer than 180 days will need a visa. It can be obtained at the responsible embassy or consulate of Armenia or upon arrival at the airport. To visit Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), one must obtain a visa at the border checkpoint.
Customs
The export of valuable items of special historical significance is prohibited, such as manuscripts, archaeological findings, paintings, carpets or gold.
Airports
Zvartnots International Airport is 12 km (25 minutes) away from the center of Yerevan. Official website of the airport Zvartnots: http://www.zvartnots.aero/en
Tipping
Optional, but recommended. Tips should be given based on your satisfaction with the work of the local team.
Communication and internet
In Armenia, roaming works for all three Swiss and most European mobile operators. When it comes to Internet access, you can take advantage of Wi-Fi and high-speed Internet access in most hotels, cafés and restaurants. Internet cafes can be found almost on every corner of the streets in Yerevan. Some of them are open 24 hours. Mobile operators offer affordable 3G and 4G Internet in almost all regions.
Time schedule
Most shops and boutiques are open in the morning from 09:00 and close between 20:00 and 22:00. Some supermarkets are open 24/7. The museums open from 10:00 to 16:00. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
Public transportation
The minibus system (marshrutka) has been well maintained in recent years in Yerevan and regional destinations. In the capital, there is also a metro with only one line. It usually works from 6:30 to 23:00. A ticket for public transport in Yerevan costs 100 AMD (≈ 0.18 €.). The traffic in Armenia is right-hand. However, it is easier to take a taxi, as it is very accessible both in terms of availability and price (100AMD per kilometer).
Health
There are no prescribed vaccinations. It is recommended to take additional travel insurance in case of changes regarding the return trip home. Both Yerevan and other parts of the country it is easy to find a pharmacy to get medicine.
Safety
Armenia is a safe country for travelling. The police is available for any help. Yerevan is probably one of the safest cities in the world, so you can enjoy a late evening walk in the city.
Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD)
1CHF ≈ 480AMD
1 € ≈ 550 AMD
1 $ ≈ 480 AMD
In many exchange offices, in hotels or in banks you can exchange Frank, Euro and Dollar at any time. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and supermarkets. The banks are open from Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm (some also work on Saturday mornings). Most of the exchange offices are open from 9:00 to 18:00 (some until 22:00).
