The City

Gyumri is Armenia's second largest city, famous for its 19th-century red and black tuff stone buildings in the historic Kumayri district. The city still bears the marks of the 1988 earthquake, which only adds to its sense of resilience and character.

A walk around Vardanants Square, Abovyan Street and the surrounding courtyards reveals ornate balconies, old workshop signs and lively neighbourhood life.

Step into a courtyard and you might see laundry hanging, children playing and neighbours chatting across balconies — Gyumri's famous sense of humour and warmth lives in these hidden corners just as much as on the main streets.

If you like cities that are a bit imperfect, a bit weathered, but full of soul, Gyumri's old town is an essential stop. It is the kind of place where you plan a half-day visit and end up staying overnight, just to wander the streets again in the evening light.

What to Do

Explore the old town on foot, visit the Gyumri History Museum, the Dzitoghtsyan Museum and the Aslamazyan Sisters Gallery, then try hearty local dishes and look for venues with live folk or jazz music in the evening.

How to Get There

About 126 km from Yerevan. Take a train from Sasuntsi David station, a bus from Kilikia bus station, or drive via the M1 highway north towards Gyumri.