Yerevan, Armenia’s vibrant capital, is a city full of charm, history, and warmth. While many locals speak some Russian or English, knowing basic (Eastern) Armenian can make your travel experience so much more meaningful.
Here’s how you can prepare your Armenian before you land!
Focus on Travel-Ready Phrases
You don’t need to master the entire language — just focus on key expressions:
- Barev dzez (Բարեւ ձեզ) → Hello (formal)
- Shnorhakalutyun (Շնորհակալություն) → Thank you
- Ayo / Voch (Այո / Ոչ) → Yes / No
- Inch’ arzhe? (Ինչ արժե՞) → How much is it?
- K’areli e angleren? (Կարելի է անգլերեն՞) → Can we speak in English?
Write them down, keep them on your phone, or even make flashcards for quick practice!
Listen to Local Sounds Before You Go
Armenian pronunciation can feel tricky, especially with its rolled “r” or soft “kh” sounds.
- Watch Armenian YouTube videos or travel vlogs.
- Listen to local music or short dialogues.
- Try repeating phrases out loud daily — even five minutes helps.
The more familiar the sounds become, the more confident you’ll feel on the ground.
Learn Cultural Tips (Not Just Words)
In Yerevan, greetings matter! Handshakes, polite smiles, and using formal “you” (dzez) with strangers show respect. Also, locals appreciate travelers making the effort to speak Armenian, even if it’s just a few words — it often opens doors to friendlier interactions and maybe even a free coffee or local tip!
Practice with Native Speakers
Want to accelerate your prep?
Join Tun Online Armenian School before your trip! Our quick-start traveler lessons focus on:
- Basic conversation
- Ordering food
- Asking for directions
- Navigating markets and taxis
You’ll land in Yerevan ready to connect and explore like a local!
Ready to start learning Armenian?(www.tunapp.com/get-started)
Tun Online Armenian School is available online to students in 30+ countries. Students can log in and learn Eastern or Western Armenian at a pace that suits them, and it features lessons, quizzes and interactive games to make learning fun.
<< Create your free account and start your first lesson now! >>
✅ Eastern and Western Armenian
✅ Available on mobile
✅ Available on desktop and laptop
✅ Ad-free learning experience
✅ Live practice with other Armenian speakers
✅ Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels
✅ Tutor help available
✅ Try before you buy with 4, 8 or 12 lessons free
✅ Cancel any time
What Armenian phrases give the biggest payoff for travelers in Yerevan?
Essentials like greetings, “thank you,” and “how much is it?” provide the biggest benefit. Tun Online Armenian School offers a travel-specific course for quick wins.
Do I need to learn Eastern or Western Armenian for Yerevan?
Focus on Eastern Armenian, as this is the variety spoken locally in Armenia’s capital. Tun Online Armenian School has a dedicated Eastern Armenian track for travelers.
How can I practice Armenian pronunciation quickly before a trip?
Spend five minutes a day repeating phrases out loud to adjust your ear. The Tun App is perfect for this type of quick, daily practice.
What’s a polite way to address strangers in Armenian while traveling?
Use formal “you” (dzez) with strangers. Tun Online Armenian School teaches these social rules to ensure you are always respectful.
What should I say in Armenian when I’m lost or need help?
Prepare a “help kit” of phrases like “Excuse me” and “Where is the hotel?”. The Tun App includes these in its survival Armenian modules.
How can I keep Armenian phrases accessible while I’m sightseeing?
Keep phrases on your phone for quick reference while moving around. The Tun App is designed for easy mobile access.
