How to Get to Vanadzor from Yerevan by bus, train, car, or taxi/transfer

Vanadzor is the third-largest city in Armenia, following Yerevan and Gyumri, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists. Let’s explore the different public transportation options available to get to Vanadzor. However, opting for a car or transfer service might be your best bet if you’re interested in sightseeing nearby.

The road to Vanadzor takes you through some stunning natural scenery, and once you arrive in the city, you can stroll through beautiful parks and visit museums. Many tourists head to the Lori region to see ancient monasteries like Sanahin and Akhtala, the 800-year-old arch bridge over the Debed River adorned with stone lions, and a host of other fascinating sites. Pay attention that these attractions are a bit outside the city.

You probably already have a list of what you want to see, so now it’s just a matter of choosing the best way to get to Vanadzor. Let’s take a look at the available options, ranging from the most affordable to the most comfortable.

Getting to Vanadzor by plane is a bit difficult since the city doesn’t have its own airport. If you’re flying into Armenia from another country, you’ll need to book a flight to Yerevan. International flights arrive at Zvartnots Airport in Yerevan.

To make your arrival smoother, consider pre-booking an English-speaking driver through the GoTrip website for your transfer to Vanadzor. This way, you won’t have to worry about finding a taxi, negotiating in English (which can be tricky in Armenia), or figuring out how much to pay.

GoTrip is convenient because you can plan your route in advance and choose a driver based on their photo, vehicle, reviews, and other criteria on the site. Your driver will confirm all the details of your trip, including your flight number and expected arrival time. They’ll arrive at the airport ahead of time and wait for you in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your name. Even if your flight is delayed, your driver will be there to greet you, help with your luggage, and ensure you get to Vanadzor comfortably and safely.

Getting to Vanadzor by train is a bit of a twisty adventure — just like flying, it’s not as straightforward as you might hope! There isn’t a direct train from Yerevan to Vanadzor, so if you’re up for some fun and don’t mind a little detour, you can take a train to Gyumri and then make your way to Vanadzor from there (just keep in mind that it’s over 60 km away). This journey will take you about 5.5 hours, so it might not be the best option unless Gyumri is already on your travel list.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to reach Vanadzor from Yerevan, hopping on a bus or minibus is the way to go! Buses leave from Kilikia Central Bus Station every half hour — whenever they fill up with passengers. The biggest carrier is the National Transport Authority, but there are other private companies too. Just remember that schedules and prices can change.

These buses and minibuses make several stops along the way and will get you to the Vanadzor bus station in about 2.5 hours. Keep an eye out for the popular minibuses numbered 403 and 404 at the station. A ticket costs around 1200 dram (about $3), and you’ll need to pay in cash right there.

If you’re on the hunt for an affordable way to get to Vanadzor, this minibus option is the best bet — even if it’s not the most luxurious ride!

Driving to Vanadzor is a great option if you want to explore at your own pace! The distance from Yerevan to Vanadzor is just a little over 100 km, and you have two main routes to choose from: the AH81/E117/M3 or the AH81/E117 (116 km), or you can take the M4 and M8. Either way, you’ll be on the road for just a bit over two hours.

If you decide to rent a car, keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for the rental and leave a deposit.

Getting to Vanadzor by transfer is a good way to prioritize comfort, safety, and great service. If you’re looking for a smooth ride, check out GoTrip website.

You can easily book a transfer from Yerevan to Vanadzor for any date that works for you. The journey covers about 116 km and takes around 2 hours (not counting any extra stops you might want to make along the way). 

Prices start at $101, and that’s for the whole car — no matter how many passengers hop in! This price includes fuel, unlimited waiting time during the stops, and some water for the ride.

Unlike public transportation, you won’t have to worry about sticking to a schedule or route. You get to pick the time and place where you want to be picked up, making your trip as personalized as you like! 

Feel free to add as many stops as you want along the way, snap photos at beautiful spots, or grab a bite at a café with stunning views. The transfer cost is fixed, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront — no surprise fees for waiting or extra stops!

One of the best parts? You can choose your driver in advance! GoTrip features only vetted and trained drivers who are great with customers and have plenty of experience. Opt for someone who speaks English, and communication will be a breeze. You can check out photos of your driver and their vehicle, read reviews from other travelers, and select a car based on how much space you need for luggage and other preferences.

We guarantee a reliable and safe journey: this is especially important if you’re traveling solo. Our drivers are polite and respectful — they’ll happily answer your questions and share their knowledge about Armenia without overwhelming you with too much chatter.

Think of your GoTrip driver as your friendly guide during your adventure. Their mission is to make your trip enjoyable and stress-free.

As you can see, getting to Vanadzor is super easy! Whether you choose an economical bus ride or a more comfortable transfer, you’re in for an unforgettable journey through Armenia’s historic sites. As they say in Armenia, there’s no accounting for taste! No matter how you decide to travel, an amazing experience awaits you!