How to get to Ashtarak by bus, minibus, or taxi/transfer

Many travelers are curious how to get to Ashtarak, a charming little town in Central Armenia, just 22 km from Yerevan. This delightful spot is home to some of the oldest Armenian churches, the most famous being the Karmravor Temple, built in the seventh century and still standing strong today! The second and third most notable churches are the Tsiranavor and Spitakavor, both showcasing stunning examples of medieval Armenian architecture.

Ashtarak is conveniently located at the crossroads of roads leading from Yerevan to two other major cities in Armenia: Vanadzor and Gyumri. You can hop on a public bus or minibus for your journey, or if you prefer a more personal touch, a taxi or private transfer is also an option.

In this article, we’ll share tips on how to travel to Ashtarak affordably using public transport and how to enjoy a comfy ride so you can explore all the sights at your own pace.

So, you’re dreaming of visiting Ashtarak? Well, the adventure begins at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, Armenia! This is the main hub where flights from around the globe land, making it the perfect starting point for your journey.

Zvartnots is just 12 km away from Yerevan. From the airport, you can grab a taxi to the bus station or even head straight to another city.

Getting from Zvartnots Airport to Ashtarak

To travel from the airport to Ashtarak, you can catch a taxi right there (though be mindful that prices from airport taxis might be much higher than what you’d find on apps).

For those who want a cozy and secure ride, I recommend booking a GoTrip transfer in advance. You can pick a driver that suits your style — whether it’s about car size, trunk space, language skills, or guest reviews.

Your driver will give you a call to confirm all the details, meet you at the airport with a personalized sign in the arrivals area, help with your luggage, and whisk you off to Ashtarak without any hassle. And don’t worry if your flight is delayed; your driver will be there waiting for you!

You can book a transfer from Zvartnots Airport to Ashtarak from $38 through this link.

Since Ashtarak is just a quick 20 km jaunt from Yerevan, you won’t find trains making the trip from the main railway station. But don’t worry! The best and most budget-friendly way to reach Ashtarak is by hopping on a bus or minibus. These vehicles zip to Ashtarak from the Kilikia Central Bus Station every day.

Here are the bus and minibus numbers you’ll need to know:

• Minibuses: 502, 504, 506, 517
• Buses: 505, 546

Keep in mind that schedules can change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest info on the National Transport Authority’s website or with other transport companies.

In the summer, minibuses leave the Central Station at:

• 8:40 AM (Minibus 502)
• 8:50 AM (Minibus 504)
• 9:10 AM (Bus 546)

The ride usually takes about 40 minutes.

Important Tip! If you’re taking a bus or minibus to Ashtarak, be sure to ask the driver to stop at the main square in Khraparak. Otherwise, you might end up at the bus station, which is a bit further from the center of town. 

Ready for a little road trip? You can easily drive from Yerevan to Ashtarak by taking the AH81/E117/M1 highway. This route is the quickest and most straightforward, with a smooth four-lane road that’ll get you there in just 20-30 minutes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an alternative route from Echmiadzin, which is about 17 km away. This is a great option if you want to explore both Echmiadzin and Ashtarak in one fun-filled day.

You can also grab a taxi for this journey. Just keep in mind that prices can vary between different taxi companies and private drivers, so it’s smart to compare options beforehand. And don’t forget — if the driver has to wait for you, there might be an extra charge for that.

If you prefer a more personalized travel experience, getting to Ashtarak by private transfer is a great option. This way, you won’t have to worry about public transport schedules or sharing a ride with someone you don’t know. You can easily choose your travel date, departure time, and plan your route — whether it’s one-way or round-trip.

When you book a transfer, you’ll have the chance to see profiles of available drivers, complete with photos, prices, reviews, and details about their vehicles. This makes it easy to pick someone who suits your needs.

You can start your journey not just from Yerevan but also from other cities in Armenia or even Georgia. One of the best things about a private transfer is that you’re guaranteed a clean and reliable car with a driver who speaks English. Plus, if you’re traveling with kids, you can request a child seat at no extra charge.

There are no limits on stops or waiting times — so you can take your time exploring without worrying about extra fees. You’ll know the price upfront, so there are no surprises during your trip.

Ashtarak has plenty to offer: ancient churches, museums, delicious wine, and beautiful nature. With a transfer, you can explore at your own pace and visit nearby attractions like the stunning Ovanavank and Saghmosavank monasteries overlooking the picturesque Kasakh River canyon.

Don’t miss the Armenian Alphabet Monument located 14 km from Ashtarak on the slopes of Mount Aragats. It features sculptures of all the Armenian letters — perfect for a fun photo opportunity.

The climate in Ashtarak is also ideal for winemaking, so you can sample local wines at guesthouses and restaurants. And if you’re a fan of walnuts, be sure to check out the annual walnut festival in October.

With all these options, you can easily plan your adventure in Ashtarak and enjoy everything this charming town has to offer. Happy travels!