Overview
Ashtarak is a small city in Central Armenia located 20 km northwest of Yerevan. It features the best-preserved Armenian church of the 7th century, Karmravor.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History
Before you go
Accommodation
Only one hotel exists in Ashtarak—Hotel Ashtarak is Soviet-era and very average. Most visitors stay in Yerevan and do Ashtarak as a day trip.
Connectivity
WiFi available at Pascal & Diodato restaurant. Limited connectivity otherwise—rely on Yerevan for reliable internet.
Culture
Ashtarak means "a tower" in Armenian. The town hosted the Institute of Physics of Armenian Academy of Sciences since the mid-20th century.
Food
Limited dining options: Pascal & Diodato near Karmravor has the best reviews; Pirozhok is simple and cheap near the bus station; Old Ashtarak offers good Arabic cuisine in restored house setting.
Transport
Public buses connect Ashtarak to Yerevan and Gyumri from the bus station on Yerevan Street. Everything in town is walkable. Taxis available at central square.