Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Yerevan is the capital of the Republic of Armenia and one of the three South Caucasus hubs. It is also home to over a million people, making it the city with the world’s biggest Armenian population. Despite this, Yerevan isn’t even close to being a gay-friendly city.
Yerevan, like Tbilisi, is a capital city that sits on the European-Asian divide. This is one of the world’s oldest cities, having been inhabited continuously throughout its existence.
Due to terrible times, Armenians have become proud of their identity and history, and their capital city is an outward reflection of that pride in many ways. Yerevan is home to the country’s greatest museums, cultural institutions, and eateries. These restaurants are in charge of preserving Armenia’s culinary heritage.
But, if you do not appreciate visiting museums, there is no need to be concerned since the city attempts to give all visitors something entertaining by preserving many parks, art museums, historical sites, and even a brandy factory. Because of its pink tuff-stone façade, spacious boulevards, and fountain-filled squares, Yerevan is a dream vacation for individuals who like strolling and photography.
Because of the country’s strongly established homophobia and social conservatism, Armenians who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender suffer a difficult life. Although homosexuality was decriminalized in Armenia in 2003, the country’s status for LGBT persons has not improved.
It is extremely difficult for homosexual people to socialize since there are very few public areas where they can be certain they will not be abused, and there are no openly gay venues.
Yerevan is one of those unique towns that combines a beautiful green canyon with a river flowing through the center and a highly pleasant city that is easy to navigate on foot.
There are several reasons why Yerevan is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and these reasons can be found throughout the city. Visitors identifying as homosexual or lesbian will have a fantastic time in this beautiful city if they exercise much caution.
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Gay Yerevan, Armenia
Honey, welcome to Gay Yerevan! Now, let’s spill the tea – this city may not be the most welcoming to our rainbow community, but don’t let that dim your sparkle! There are many fabulous things to see and do here, no matter who you love.
As passionate travelers and members of the LGBTQ+ community, we believe that queer travel is about having fun and exploring new places, promoting cultural understanding, and spreading pride.
Through the journey, we can learn about different cultures, histories, and perspectives and share our experiences and identities with others. We can also support LGBTQ+ businesses and organizations and work together to create a safer and more accepting world for all members of our rainbow family.
Unfortunately, homophobia and discrimination still exist in many parts of the world, and it is important to be mindful of the laws, customs, and attitudes of the places we visit. But by being visible and proud and by supporting local LGBTQ+ communities and allies, we can help to change hearts and minds and make a positive impact wherever we go.
So let’s keep exploring, learning, and sharing, and continue to work towards a future where all travelers can feel safe and celebrated, no matter where they are.
Check out the iconic landmarks and attractions, darling. Visit those historical monuments, museums, and art galleries like the true cultural connoisseur you are. And, of course, let’s not forget about the architecture, parks, and gardens. Trust us, the local cuisine will leave you gagging, and the markets are to die for.
And, girl, let’s not even start on the cultural events like festivals, concerts, and shows – they are simply sickening!
Now, while we are out and proud queens, we have to keep it on the down-low when we hit the streets, sis. Sadly, this city may not be as welcoming to us as we’d like. But no worries, we’ll just have to slay discreetly, okay? Let’s show these locals how to live our best lives, honey!
This massive staircase is a stunning structure with several terraces surrounded by creative statues and sculptures, wonderful floral decorations, and some of the city’s best cafés, taverns, and restaurants. It is right in the center of Yerevan. Climb the stairs for beautiful views of the city and Ararat Mountain, or visit the Cafesjian Center for the Arts to learn about local artists and their work.
The city celebrated its 2,750th anniversary in 1968, which also happened to be the year the Erebuni Museum initially opened its doors. If you are standing at the foot of the Atin Berd hill, you may visit the museum and the Urartian Fortress Erebuni, located atop the hill and converted into an outdoor museum.
According to the inscription, the territory was formed in 782 BCE by Argishti I, King of Urartu. The main part of the stronghold’s construction was made of unfired bricks, and substantial walls surrounded the castle. Archeologists unearthed significant artifacts, including bronze bracelets, agate beads, glass items, and jars.
Freedom Square
Freedom Square, a town square also known as Liberty Square, is in the city’s heart. Both names are for the same location. It is part of the complex that houses the Yerevan Opera Theater, between Swan Lake and Opera Park.
Independence Square and Republic Square are among the main squares in the heart of the capital city. It is bounded on all four sides by Mashtots Avenue, Sayat Nova Street, Tumanyan Street, and Teryan Street.
Sergei Parajanov Museum
Sergei Parajanov, an Armenian by origin, was a Soviet Union-based filmmaker and artist. It was founded in 1988 when Parajanov migrated to Yerevan and started constructing the house museum. The museum is a tribute to his artistic and literary legacy. Because of socioeconomic concerns and the 1988 earthquake, the museum ultimately opened its doors after he died in 1991.
Since it is one of the nation’s capital’s cultural centers, the museum is well-known for its publications, exhibitions, and honorary receptions. Walk through two floors of exhibits that include over 1,400 distinct objects such as drawings, headwear, Parajanov’s keepsakes, original posters, festival prizes, unpublished screenplays, and his various artworks.
Mother Armenia Monument
Mother Armenia is a statue in Victory Park, overlooking the Armenian capital. She is a feminine representation of Armenia. The monument’s total height, including the pedestal on which it stands, is 51 meters (167 feet). The memorial is modeled after a Yerevan defender and conveys that peace can be achieved through power.
Every year on May 9, thousands of Armenians gather here to pay their respects to those Armenians who died during World War II by placing flowers at the foot of the monument. Also, if you are interested in military history, the monument’s pedestal contains the Ministry of Defense’s Military Museum.
The Nagorno-Karabakh War lasted from 1988 to 1994 and is featured prominently in the museum’s exhibit section.
Visitors who like tasting locally produced alcoholic beverages will welcome seeing the Ararat Brandy Factory and its museum. You will learn about the factory, the production process, distillation, and bottling, and taste some of the several types of brandy available.
The museum’s name implies that its principal emphasis is the Ottoman Empire’s 1915 Armenian Genocide. This genocide killed 1.5 million Armenians both during and after World War I.
The museum in Yerevan is a melancholy journey back in time, where visitors may learn about the time before the genocide, see heartbreaking interviews, read reports, and watch recordings that testify to the survivors’ inner suffering.
Tourists interested in history will enjoy visiting the History Museum of Armenia, which has departments on numismatics, ethnography, archaeology, and current account. Because of its enormous national collection, which includes 400,000 pieces, the museum is considered Armenia’s national museum.
A huge collection of bronze artifacts dating back to the third and second millennia BC, Urartu’s historical and cultural legacy, and a collection of gold, silver, and copper coins from many nations and kingdoms may be found here.
Yerevan Great Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, a magnificent Shia mosque, was built in the 18th century. Religious services were not performed at the mosque or held in any other religious venue when the Soviets were in charge.
Nevertheless, after Armenia declared independence, the mosque was rebuilt with support from the Iranian government. The Blue Mosque is the country’s only mosque and a notable architectural attraction because of its colorful decor on the inside and exterior of the structure, as well as its dome, which can be seen from a long distance.
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Yerevan, Armenia
Don’t wait another minute to book your stay at one of the most fabulously queer-friendly hotels in Yerevan! While many establishments in town might not welcome our rainbow family, these hotels have all pledged to embrace our queer spirit with open arms.
From non-discrimination policies to LGBTQ+ resources and amenities, these hotels go above and beyond to create a safe and inclusive environment for all guests who identify as LGBTQ+. And if you’re looking for a place to stay in an area known for being LGBTQ+ friendly, these hotels have got you covered too.
In addition to the locally-owned gay-friendly accommodations in Yerevan, international hotel chains can also be great options for LGBTQ+ travelers. Many of these chains have implemented policies and training programs to ensure that their hotels are welcoming and safe for LGBTQ+ guests.
They may also have LGBTQ+ affinity groups within the company, which can help to promote a culture of inclusivity and support for queer travelers.
Moreover, international hotel chains are often known for their high-quality amenities and services, which can provide a more luxurious and comfortable stay for LGBTQ+ travelers. With a global presence, these chains can give a sense of familiarity and consistency for queer travelers navigating unfamiliar destinations.
Whether you choose a locally-owned gay-friendly accommodation or an international hotel chain, it’s important to research and selects a place that will make you feel welcome and comfortable during your stay in Yerevan.
So why wait? Book now to experience the comfort, luxury, and acceptance these gay-friendly hotels in Yerevan have to offer. With options to fit every budget and preference, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home.
Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan ☆☆☆☆☆
The Golden Palace Hotel in downtown Yerevan is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels. As you check in, the architectural beauty of the hotel will astound you, and the experience will leave you speechless. During your stay, the hotel staff will be friendly and helpful in responding to any queries or requests for assistance. They will do everything possible to suit your requirements.
Guests of the Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan, situated in Yerevan, have access to a modern fitness center. Visitors are welcome to utilize the facilities whenever exercising and burning calories is most convenient. Guests may utilize the rooftop restaurant and bar for both eating and drinking.
The hotel has marble bathtubs and typical Italian furniture, but what distinguishes it is the charming cultural design applied everywhere. Each hotel’s guest room is well equipped with a range of useful facilities to ensure visitors have a pleasant stay.
The Golden Palace Hotel in Yerevan has a range of rooms, some of which have balconies, and each room has a coffee maker. If the activities within the room get monotonous, guests may reach the balcony and enjoy the city’s wonderful views and the wildlife surrounding it.
The Paris Hotel Yerevan, which just opened, is the city’s newest luxury hotel. The New hotel, situated in the center of Yerevan, provides spacious and well-appointed rooms with all of the basic amenities required to guarantee that tourists have a pleasant stay at the business.
Each room has a balcony, so guests may walk out onto them in the evening to enjoy the view of the setting sun while sipping their favorite beverage. Guests may also enjoy the view from the hotel’s rooftop patio, which stretches to Biblical Ararat.
Moreover, since the hotel includes a modern and well-equipped fitness center, you cannot abandon your regular training program. The Paris Hotel Yerevan includes a front desk operated 24 hours a day, a terrace, and a bar. Rooms with beautiful interior design, contemporary TVs, and comfy beds are also offered at the facility to guarantee visitors a peaceful night’s sleep.
If you want to visit Armenia and explore the city that serves as the country’s capital, Yerevan, but is looking for a cheap place to stay, the Center Hostel is precisely what you need! You’ll find the best solution at Center Hostel, where the costs are reasonable, and the location couldn’t be more convenient.
The brand-new Center Hostel is in the heart of Yerevan and offers low bed costs, clean compartments, and friendly staff service. During the summer of 2021, the youth hostel had a comprehensive renovation and is only three minute’s walk from the world-famous Republic Square.
The Center Hostel offers a range of overnight accommodations. All of their rooms have recently been renovated, and in addition to being centrally heated, they all have a pleasant neutral décor and an appealing environment.
Four- and six-bed rooms are also available, and guests sleeping in these rooms can access newly remodeled shared restrooms and shower facilities. Each room’s big, comfy mattresses provide a peaceful night’s sleep.
Gay Nightlife in Yerevan, Armenia
Several nightclubs, bars, pubs, and other locations in the city conduct fun-filled parties. Since all of these venues are in the city center, you can quickly go to another if you don’t like one of them. This will guarantee that your trip to Armenia’s capital is one you will never forget.
Exploring the queer nightlife scene in a new city can be one of the most exhilarating experiences while traveling, and Gay Yerevan is certainly no exception. Not only do you have the chance to meet new people and make friends, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the local culture and learn more about the LGBTQ+ community.
Whether you prefer to connect with other queer folks in person at a gay bar or club or through a hook up app, Gay Yerevan has plenty of options to explore. However, it’s important to remember that many of the public spaces in the city are not queer-friendly, and it’s best to avoid displaying overt signs of queerness in certain areas due to the risk of discrimination or even violence.
So, venture out to experience the vibrant and diverse queer nightlife in Gay Yerevan, but always prioritize your safety and well-being. Take precautions when meeting new people, and be mindful of your surroundings. With a bit of caution and a lot of fun, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in this amazing city.
Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Yerevan, Armenia
This tavern, located in the heart of Yerevan’s trendiest neighborhood and near the well-known Cascade steps, appeals to many individuals. Upstairs, you may have a hookah, some beverages, or a bite to eat while perusing the bizarre artwork that adorns the walls.
Or, you may go below (half of the bar is underground, as with most of the city’s institutions), where an in-house DJ will play tunes for you to dance to. The fun and unpretentious environment will ensure that everyone has a fantastic evening.
For beer connoisseurs, the Dargett Craft Brewery is a dream come true. This Armenia’s first craft brewery offers over twenty varieties of craft beer, each made with premium-grade ingredients, cutting-edge technology, and time-honored processes.
Among their most popular beers are the Bavarian Weizen, the Bohemian Pilsner, the Blond Ale, the Munich Light Lager, the Vienna Lager, the American Pale and Wheat Ale, fruit-flavored ales with flavors like apricot, apple, and cherry, and the Baltic Porter.
And if you’re unsure where to start, they have sampling packages for sale. The cuisine menu is as diverse as the beer choices, with meat and vegetarian options that mix well with the numerous alcoholic beverages.
Those who wish to spend an evening relaxing with a beer or light alcoholic beverage have found the ideal location at the Station Pub. The environment is fairly cozy, the staff is kind, and the rock music they play is spot on, with a succession of iconic pieces from rock music’s history.
This tavern is popular among locals because it embodies Armenian qualities such as kindness, humor, and ease. It is generally regarded as one of the city’s liveliest places. A night out only to have fun is best spent at the quirky pub, which is the appropriate location for such an evening.
Guests are welcome to snap photos wearing a handcrafted crown and torch fashioned like the Statue of Liberty, which also serves as the establishment’s mascot and logo. Liberty is among the few places in Yerevan to get high-quality crawfish, and the restaurant’s Unlimited Crawfish Day is a huge hit.
If you appreciate jazz and want to spend an evening resting and listening to local jazz performers while having a drink or a modest meal, this is the place for you.
Regularly, the concert hall features performances by some of the most well-known and experienced performers in the genre of music being performed. You are advised to make a table reservation in advance and be prepared to pay an admittance fee of 2,000 AMD, equal to four dollars in American money.
You may unwind with a drink while listening to live music at the wonderful Barcode Bar. Since the environment inside is warm, friendly, and appealing, many consider Barcode one of their go-to venues for socializing with friends, meeting new contacts, and having a nice night out.
The Kami Club is another great place to appreciate the work of local musicians and artists operating in various genres. The interior design has opulent sofas and chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. If you do not have a one-of-a-kind invitation card, you will be subjected to a stringent “face control” procedure to enter the premises.
The city’s nightlife has gotten more interesting due to Paparazzi being one of the greatest clubs in Yerevan, which inevitably includes crazy parties. Around midnight, the location becomes more crowded, and this is when the party truly gets going, so if you want to see the nightlife scene in full swing, come here after midnight. Every night, local and international DJs entertain the audience with dance music.
Mezzo is a wonderful alternative for individuals who like to spend their evenings in a more relaxed environment, sipping wine and listening to live artists. Due to its unique design, outstanding people, and warm and friendly setting, the venue is a favorite destination for many locals and tourists.
If you’re having difficulties picking what to eat or drink since the menu has so many choices, the wait staff is always happy to provide recommendations. The menu offers a wide range of meals and drinks. Also, if you’re fortunate, you could catch some Armenian superstars during one of the performances.
It’s tough to imagine Armenia’s nightlife scene without Calumet, one of the city’s oldest and prettiest clubs. It is important to note that table reservations should be made as soon as possible to guarantee that you have a seat at the institution of your choice.
If you are sensitive to the smell of cigarette smoke, you should avoid this site since smoking is allowed. Apart from that, it would help if you came here to relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while drinking your favorite beverage and listening to live rock concerts by local bands.
Gay-Friendly Cocktails Bars and Clubs in Yerevan, Armenia
The words “Alcohol and Books” appear on the pub’s signage, so it’s not surprising that it stands out from other facilities in Yerevan. Hipsters from all over the city go to Hemingway’s for a night of specialty drinks surrounded by literature, antique posters, artwork, and old vinyl records.
The old-school notion is not corny or forced, maybe because of the relaxed and casual setting. If Mr. Hemingway were still living today, he would most likely be sipping his favorite cocktail, a daiquiri, at the bar, staring in admiration at the restaurant he helped to create.
If beating your fists to the rhythm of techno music appeals to you more than sipping smooth wine and listening to calming jazz, Club 12 is the place to be. Although the club’s clientele is older and more sophisticated than other clubs in the city, customers can anticipate a nice night.
The restaurant serves excellent fish and meat dishes, and the bar is recognized for its specialty cocktails, such as the berry cocktail special. The interior decor is magnificent, evoking memories of a home in the French countryside. Rooftop gay bars and clubs in Yerevan, Armenia
Gay-Friendly Rooftop Bars and Clubs in Yerevan, Armenia
El Sky Bar is a perfect venue for those who like spending their evenings in sumptuous surroundings while enjoying beautiful city views.
El Sky Bar is a multi-room institution on the seventh floor of Yerevan Plaza Business Center. It offers indoor and outdoor venues and regularly conducts a broad range of themed events, complete with trendy DJs. El Sky Bar is a great place to unwind and have a delicious drink on the rooftop patio if you find yourself in Yerevan during the hot summer months.
Mozaic Sky Bar is a place that deserves a visitor’s time and attention. The Mosaic restaurant and sky bar are located on the top level of the Elite Plaza corporate complex.
You get a magnificent perspective of the city from this vantage point. It’s a great setting with a sense of mystery and solitude. It’s as if you’re poised on a throne overlooking the whole world, taking in the magnificence of each passing second.
Monroe Café & Lounge is another excellent alternative for people searching for an open-air bar in the center of Yerevan. With its lit tables and magnificent view, this location may become one of your favorite places to spend the evening. Here, you may enjoy some dessert and a soft evening breeze, which are refreshing after a day spent baking in the heat.
The Radisson Blue Hotel’s award-winning AdAstra Restaurant & Bar is on the seventh floor. It’s a great place to hang out with a bunch of friends. Despite being in the city’s heart, there is rarely any noise. It’s a great spot to spend time in friendly company while seeing the city’s nightlife from above.
Gay Saunas & Cruising Clubs in Yerevan, Armenia
When it comes to exploring Gay Yerevan, there’s more to life than just cocktails and beers. One aspect of the gay scene that many of us queens love is checking out the local gay saunas and cruising clubs.
Granted, Yerevan isn’t quite as wild as Amsterdam, Barcelona, or Berlin, but these steamy venues still offer the perfect opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and engage in some hot and heavy action without swiping left or right. However, remember that these venues can differ in terms of vibe, patrons, and rules, so it’s a good idea to be informed before you dive in.
Gay saunas, sex clubs, and cruising have long been popular ways for queer men to meet and engage in sexual activity, particularly in countries where same-sex activity is not widely accepted or may even be illegal. In these places, gay saunas and cruising clubs provide a safe and discreet environment for queer men to explore their sexuality and connect with like-minded individuals.
Despite the rise of gay dating apps, many queer men still prefer the anonymity and physical connection that can be found in these spaces – so somewhat counter-intuitively, you might have a hotter experience here than you would at home.
We recommend checking out our guide to cruising for first-timers before you get started, which should give you the lowdown, and always practice safe sex.
Keep in mind that local laws and customs regarding gay venues and sexual activity should be respected at all times. With a bit of forethought and an open mind, visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs can be a thrilling and steamy part of your gay Yerevan adventure.
Gay Map Of Yerevan
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Yerevan? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages, and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!